Since I have been reminiscing about getaways in the sun, bathing in turquoise waters and lying beneath beautiful palm trees… basically anywhere but grey rainy Paris! I decided to update the travel series with previous voyages as well as places I hope of visiting.
I journeyed to the French Caribbean island of Martinique in June 2008 and it was one, if not the best vacations I’ve ever had. 
This first photo is of a private beach of the Hotel Bakoua in Les Trois Islets, south-west of the Island. We went just before the start of the school vacation which meant zero crowds, peace, tranquility and deserted beaches.
North of the Island is the region of Saint Piere which was the former capital city. Due to the volcanic eruption of Mount Pelee, most of the older buildings have been burnt down, leaving the town with many ruins and black sand beaches.
Anse Céron.
Martinique has endured many hurricanes and the evidence is clearly seen at Cap Macré. The trees were left in wind swept formations and large rocks were scattered all along the beach.
Although these pictures look serene and peaceful, the Atlantic ocean on this side of the island was actually quite rough and had extremely strong tides (not ideal for a non-swimmer like me!)
Forte de France, the capital
Martinique’s cathedral of Saint-Louis in Forte-de-France.
Traditional Martinican dresses
Anse Dufour
Saline Beach, Saint Anne
One of the most memorable places we visited in Martinique was Le Jardin de Balata, a spectacular botanical garden with the most amazing views. The garden has a vast collection of tropical plants from around the world and is a photographer’s dream, I took over 1000 shots here alone.
Oh to be back there!
These cookies are so simple and easy to make and are perfect for those days when you need something sweet and chocolaty but still want to stay healthy i.e. not reaching out for refined flour and sugar snacks.
One of my closest friends from London came to visit me in Paris just before Christmas, we had an amazing time catching up over mulled wine and visiting Christmassy spots in Paris such as the Marché de Noël in Montmartre.
I spent the Christmas period in London at my Parents and this year, my Mother in-law joined us. It was her first time in the UK so we went on the London eye so that she could have a wider glimpse of the City. I do miss the magic of my home town sigh!
I cooked Christmas dinner for the first time, allowing my mum a well deserved break. Surprisingly everything turned out well apart from a few overcooked sausages :p
Here is my parent’s cat Tyty who loves to hang out on the radiator. She had enjoyed her fair share of turkey and was snoozing at her favourite spot.
The beautiful Christmas tree at Kings Cross St Pancras Station whilst on our way back home for New Years eve.
My husband and I decided to have a quiet evening together as we had just arrived back from London. I cooked a gluten-free 
I made Pho on the 1st as it is traditional in the Philippines and other Asian cultures to eat noodles on New years day as a symbol of good fortune and longevity. Traditionally we would eat 
Pia looked just as sad as I was whilst packing the Cristmas decorations away.
I tried out my new workout shoes (one of my gifts from the Mr) on the 1st and jumped back into my Insanity workouts.