Saturday, March 8, 2025



Luxury jewellery shops in Barcelona
The city of Barcelona has lots of beautiful architecture, incredible beaches, delicious gastronomy and much more. However, this wonderful city also boasts a variety of luxury jewellery stores. From renowned brands such as Cartier and Rolex, to the finest luxury local boutiques. The high-end array of stunning pieces Barcelona offers is perfect for any jewellery enthusiast. From personalised fittings to expert craftsmanship and innovative designs, each boutique invites you into a world of glamour, heritage, and sophistication. Whether you leave with a sparkling souvenir or a bespoke masterpiece, these stores promise a journey that transcends shopping, offering memories as timeless as the jewellery itself. With Barcelona’s mix of international brands and local artisans, you’re sure to find a piece that perfectly complements your style and tells its own unique story. So, keep reading to check out the beautiful jewellery that Barcelona has in store for you.

Mainstream jewellery brands
Cartier
Cartier is a symbol of timeless beauty and class, situated in the well-known shopping district of Passeig de Gràcia. Due to its simplistic yet beautiful range of pieces, this brand is popular with jewellery lovers. Cartier has something for everyone, from the Love Bracelet to the Tank watches. When you visit the store in Barcelona, it is not just a simple shopping trip but an incredible, personalised experience where Cartier guarantees you will find something extraordinary.

Swarovski
With a variety of stores located around the city, Swarovski is not a place you want to miss! The Austrian brand, best known for its Persian-cut crystals, has innovative designs which are affordable yet timeless and beautiful. From sparkly earrings to stunning necklaces, Swarovski pieces undoubtedly elevate any outfit. If you are a jewellery lover who is searching for delicacy and beauty that won’t break the bank, head to Swarovski for the perfect piece.

Pomellato
The well-known Italian jewellery brand, Pomellato, has a stunning boutique in Barcelona, its stand-out collections such as Sabbia and Nudo have colourful gemstones and much more! Every visitor at Pomellato has a one-of-a-kind experience and will find something that caters to their style.

Rolex
Synonymous with precision and prestige, Rolex is a renowned name in the world of luxury watches. Situated on Passeig de Gràcia, visiting this store will be an unforgettable experience. Rolex´s pieces are state-of-the-art, where you can discover a wide range of timepieces such as the Datejust or the Submariner, which are perfect for any watch lover.

Lesser-known brands
Rabat
If you are looking for prestigious jewellery, a must-visit is Rabat, offering a refined selection of high-quality pieces. Located on Passeig de Gràcia, Rabat collaborates with luxurious brands such as Gucci, Bvlgari and much more. Whether you want an everyday piece or an engagement ring, Rabat always provides high-end quality and style.

Majoral
For those seeking unique, handcrafted jewellery with a Mediterranean touch, Majoral is a must-visit. Originally founded in Formentera and later expanded to Barcelona, Majoral’s collections are deeply inspired by nature, the sea, and traditional island life. Their pieces are characterised by organic shapes, textured metals, and vibrant gemstones. Majoral also commits to sustainability and ethical sourcing, which emphasises the brand’s popularity and appeal amongst consumers.

Bagués-Masriera
Since the 19th Century, Bagués-Masriera has been crafting jewellery synonymous with rich cultural heritage. Their collections, which offer timeless and artistic pieces, are highly sought-after by collectors and admirers of fine art. When visiting this store, you are not only shopping but also immersing yourself in Barcelona´s artistic legacy… what an experience!

Aristocrazy
Aristocrazy is relatively new to the luxury jewellery scene, but it has quickly become extremely popular amongst jewellery enthusiasts. The brand offers statement jewellery that is edgy and unique but also luxurious. Their store in Barcelona caters to a young, trendy audience who have an eye for high-quality jewellery. Aristocrazy has a diverse and wide collection ideal for any consumer.

Suarez
Dating back to 1943. Suarez has a long history, as a family-owned jeweller, it has become a household name here in Spain. From diamond rings to beautiful necklaces and bracelets, Suarez offers a wider range of incredible and luxurious pieces. Their boutique emulates the brand´s sophistication and elegance. Their pieces blend tradition with innovation through their modern and classic jewellery.

Joieria Clèmencia Peris
Specialising in wedding bands, engagement rings and fine jewellery, Joieria Clèmencia Peris tailors each piece to their clients, making shopping there a truly personalised experience. Located in the heart of Barcelona, expert artisans guide you through the design and process of making and creating the jewellery, assuring that each piece is made to perfection.

Sustainable jewellery
Barcelona’s jewellery scene is not just about luxury—it’s also leading the way in sustainability and ethical craftsmanship. With growing awareness about environmental and social responsibility, many jewellery houses in the city are embracing sustainable practices. Brands like Majoral are known for using recycled metals and ethically sourced gemstones, reflecting their commitment to protecting the environment while offering beautiful, handcrafted pieces. Additionally, several smaller artisan boutiques throughout the Gothic Quarter and El Born focus on creating unique, handmade pieces using sustainable techniques and materials, ensuring that your purchase not only looks stunning but also contributes to a better planet. For jewellery lovers who want to align style with values, Barcelona’s sustainable jewellery scene offers exquisite options without compromise.

Everything you need to plan your trip in 2025

In Barcelona, shopping for jewellery is not just about making a purchase; it is woven into the fabric of the city’s vibrant culture. Local boutiques, particularly in the Gothic Quarter, offer personalised experiences where artisans reveal the intricate stories behind their handcrafted creations. This approach transforms the act of buying into a memorable celebration of life’s special moments, reflecting Barcelona’s artistic spirit and deep community ties.
The jewellery scene in Barcelona beautifully balances tradition and innovation. Visitors can explore a diverse range of options, from prestigious brands like Cartier and Swarovski to remarkable local shops such as Bagués-Masriera. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a collector, or simply in search of a keepsake or gift, the city guarantees an unforgettable experience. Whether you desire a timeless diamond ring, a striking statement necklace, or a custom-designed piece, Barcelona’s jewellers stand ready to deliver the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship.

 

#Luxury #jewellery #shops #Barcelona,

Tuesday, March 4, 2025



Our vegan first class experience with British Airways
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by clutter in your home? Do you struggle to find things because they are buried under piles of stuff? If so, it may be time to declutter and simplify your space.
Clutter can have a negative impact on your mental health, causing stress and anxiety. By decluttering your home, you can create a more peaceful and organized environment that promotes relaxation and focus.
Start by going through each room in your home and getting rid of items that you no longer need or use. Donate or sell items that are in good condition, and throw away anything that is broken or no longer functional. Be ruthless in your decluttering efforts - if you haven't used an item in the past year, chances are you won't miss it.
Once you have decluttered your home, focus on organizing the items that you have decided to keep. Invest in storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and shelves to help keep things tidy and easily accessible. Labeling storage containers can also help you quickly find what you need.
Maintaining a clutter-free home requires ongoing effort. Make a habit of regularly decluttering and organizing your space to prevent things from piling up again. By taking small steps each day to keep your home organized, you can create a more peaceful and stress-free living environment.
So why wait? Start decluttering and simplifying your space today to enjoy the benefits of a clutter-free home. Your mental health will thank you.,

Whilst long haul trips in business class have been a regular part of our global travels in recent years, for which we are of course eternally grateful, our recent Singapore to London return flights in first class were an extra special treat. Often referred to as the ‘super jumbo’, our flights in both directions with British Airways were on board one of their A380’s along with 469 fellow passengers. The first class cabin has only 12 seats and has a 1-2-1 format, ensuring a certain sense of space and exclusivity. Many have written previously, and many will continue to write about the airline, the aircraft and the seat, but this article is all about the food, the vegan food in particular which is globally identified in the industry as a VGML meal. For anyone who has ordered ‘special meals’ on their flights, the possibility of it not being loaded, being loaded incorrectly, or it just not being up to standard is always a concern, so let’s see how British Airways looked after us on our two recent flights.

BA First Class Lounge at Singapore Changi
Called ‘The Bar’ and accessed from a private door within the Business Class Lounge, this is a small and discrete place to escape from the seemingly never ending hustle and bustle at Changi. Open to British Airways and One World passengers who are flying in first class, and elite members of One World alliance partners, it certainly has that sense of exclusivity.

There is a well stocked bar and a small a la carte menu from which we selected ‘Soy Basmati Biryani’ which was labelled vegan on the menu and full of flavour. This was accompanied by a ginger beer from Artonic and a packet of Tyrrells sea salt and cider vinegar crisps. Spending your time here pre flight will most certainly be a quiet and relaxed affair, but we had our eye on another lounge that we knew would offer a far more exciting culinary experience.

QANTAS First Class Lounge at Singapore Changi
Pre flight research and a somewhat nerd like knowledge of global lounge options, meant that we were always going to spend most of it time and dine here. Upon entry we were surprised at the size of this QANTAS signature lounge, and it didn’t take long before the attentive staff guided us to a table in the restaurant.

This is no ordinary lounge restaurant, this is a restaurant that would stand shoulder to shoulder (if not above) some of the finest restaurants in cities around the world. Curated by Australian Chef Neil Perry, the a la carte menu and extensive wine list literally has something for everyone. The vegan options were clearly labelled as plant based, and the attentive waiter also suggested other dishes that could be adapted to make them vegan. We dined on baked eggplant with miso noodles and a delicious vegan noodle soup which were accompanied by ice cold glasses of Heineken 0.0 non-alcoholic beer. We were suitably impressed and would most certainly return if this restaurant had a city centre location.

Our vegan food from Singapore to London with British Airways
With a late departure and having dined in two of the first class at Changi we were not exactly hungry. But of course for research purposes we decided to order what had been prepared for us before trying to get some much needed sleep on our 13 hour flight. The cabin staff were excellent, and explained what our special meals consisted of, and also helped us to navigate the on board menu and suggest other options. Other than a vegan version of the signature canapés, the food was really not good and doesn’t even warrant a photo, what we were served was unimaginative and really not up to the level you would expect when flying First Class. The highlight was another can of ice cold Heineken 0.0 which was served in a chilled glass.

Just before our arrival at London Heathrow, breakfast was served and we enjoyed our vegan breakfast which was just kind of average. Whilst it was exciting to have scrambled tofu, a vegan sausage or two wouldn’t have gone amiss.

Everything you need to plan your trip in 2024

BA First Class Lounge at London Heathrow
Arriving early, we hoped for a first class experience awaiting our flight at London Heathrow, and that’s exactly what we got. Spending our time in the Concorde Room we enjoyed excellent service and delicious food including vegan cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches (with their crusts cut off of course), vegan pumpkin risotto and a Moving Mountains vegan burger. The burger was served with vegan mayo and vegan cheese which made us happy, and all of the above was clearly labelled on the menu. We walked through to Galleries First where there were plenty of vegan options on the buffet including a vegetable curry and an extensive salad bar. Non alcoholic beer and non alcoholic cocktails completed our very enjoyable experience in the British Airways Lounges at Heathrow.

Our vegan food from London to Singapore with British Airways
Once on board, the vegan food that was pre ordered didn’t quite reach the heights of what we had been served in the lounge, but this was made up for by the crew who were super friendly and are a credit to British Airways. We enjoyed a trio of the signature canapés that everyone is served in First, albeit ours were perfectly plant based. This was followed by a vegetable and lentil salad, on a bed of roasted eggplant, and this was followed by a delightful pesto pasta dish which was packed with flavour and was washed down with yet another Heineken 0.0. And then the seemingly impossible (based on previous experiences) happened, our vegan desert was served and it wasn’t fruit. Not only was it not fruit, it was a rich and moist vegan chocolate cake with fresh strawberries, we were in positive VGML heaven. After a much needed sleep, we were woken with an excellent breakfast comparing fresh juice, oat milk latte, fruit platter and a vegan full English complete with scrambled tofu and that elusive vegan sausage that was missing on our first flight. Quite simply, when you combine the crew, the service and the food, this was the best experience we’ve had in the premium cabins on any airline in recent years.

There were certainly some ‘highs and lows’ on these recent flights with British Airways in First Class, which of course leaves some room for improvement. We loved that we were able to enjoy vegan versions of the signature canapés that everyone is served in the premium cabin, whilst we were very impressed with the QANTAS first class lounge at Changi and the British Airways first class lounge at Heathrow. But we were also served some way below par dishes, and as we’ve written before, it wouldn’t take much to ensure that passengers who wished to eat vegan food could enjoy ice cream, truffles and other sweet treats during the flight. Overall, it was impressive, but we can only hope that improvements are made over the coming years.

 

#vegan #class #experience #British #Airways,


The Best Cruise Lines for Vegetarians and Vegans
 Enjoying Delicious Dining Options Without Sacrificing Your Dietary Preferences

Tired of settling for boring salads while everyone else feasts? Cruise lines are finally stepping up their game for vegetarians and vegans, turning plant-based meals into gourmet experiences that even meat-eaters will envy.

In this article, we’ll look at the top cruise lines for vegetarians and vegans. Think creative dishes, fresh ingredients, and menus crafted by top chefs—all without compromising your lifestyle.
1. Virgin Voyages’ Plant-Based Paradise

Virgin’s Razzle Dazzle restaurant has become legendary in the vegan cruising world. It offers over 80 plant-based dishes that change seasonally. Its signature “Red Beet Tartare” and “Impossible Korean BBQ” have even meat-eaters booking tables. These innovative dishes showcase global flavors while maintaining strict vegan standards.

The ship’s dedicated plant-based kitchen prevents cross-contamination, a game-changer for strict vegans. Every restaurant onboard features marked vegan options, and the staff undergoes specialized training in plant-based cuisine and dietary requirements.

The attention to detail extends to room service, where you’ll find oat milk for your coffee and vegan snacks in your minibar. Virgin’s commitment goes beyond food – they’ve partnered with sustainable farms near their ports to source fresh, local produce.

Their chefs host cooking demonstrations showing passengers how to recreate popular vegan dishes at home. The cruise line even offers vegan wine pairings selected by their plant-based sommeliers.
2. Royal Caribbean’s Green Revolution

Royal Caribbean has transformed its main dining rooms clearly labeled vegan items on their menus featuring over 50 rotating dishes.

The quality is so high that non-vegan passengers regularly choose these options. The cruise line’s Windjammer Buffet also maintains a strong vegan offering with clearly labeled ingredients and allergen information.

Special attention is paid to desserts, with vegan ice cream, cakes, and pastries available at every meal. The buffet staff receives special training to prevent cross-contamination and answer dietary questions.

Royal Caribbean’s specialty Italian restaurant serves egg-free pasta made fresh daily, while their Asian fusion spot creates vegan sushi that rivals traditional rolls. Late-night options include vegan pizza delivery and a dedicated plant-based snack menu.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Plant-Based Paradise

Norwegian’s “Free Style” dining concept has evolved to include an extensive vegan program across its entire fleet. Their main dining rooms feature clear labels on their menus that change daily, offering everything from comfort food to gourmet cuisine.

Innovative dishes include “Mushroom Scallops” and “Cauliflower Steak Oscar,” which rival traditional seafood and meat options. Specialty restaurants onboard now offer dedicated vegan menus with creative twists on classic dishes.

Norwegian’s buffet includes a “Green Light” section dedicated to plant-based options, complete with its chef station for custom orders. Breakfast features vegan omelets made to order, while lunch and dinner offer rotating global cuisines. The cruise line hosts vegan cooking classes and food tastings throughout each voyage.
4. Celebrity Cruises’ Plant-Forward Innovation
Celebrity’s partnership with renowned vegan chefs has resulted in an upscale plant-based dining experience unlike any other at sea. Their “Blu” restaurant, typically reserved for suite guests, now offers a large number of vegan item that changes nightly.

The sophisticated dishes incorporate molecular gastronomy techniques to create unique textures and presentations. The cruise line’s commitment extends to room service, where plant-based options are available 24/7.

Five plant-based milks are available for morning coffee, while late-night cravings can be satisfied with vegan burgers, pizzas, and decadent desserts. Attention to detail includes vegan toiletries in suites and plant-based wine options at every bar.

Celebrity’s buffet features clear labeling for all dietary preferences, with dedicated vegan stations at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
5. MSC Cruises’ Mediterranean Vegan Delights

MSC brings Italian flair to vegan cuisine, offering their fleet plant-based versions of Mediterranean classics. Their main dining rooms feature dedicated vegan menus with dishes like “Eggplant Parmigiana” and “Mushroom Risotto” that capture authentic Italian flavors without animal products.

The cruise line sources ingredients from traditional Mediterranean suppliers who specialize in plant-based products. Furthermore, The buffet maintains a “Wellness Corner” with clearly marked vegan options throughout the day.

Fresh pasta stations offer egg-free alternatives, while pizza counters feature vegan cheese and a variety of vegetable toppings. Special attention is paid to breakfast options, with plant-based yogurts, pastries, and made-to-order dishes available.

Each specialty restaurant onboard offers multiple vegan options designed to complement their theme. The Asian restaurant serves creative meat-free dim sum, while the Mediterranean offers plant-based tapas. MSC also hosts cooking demonstrations focused on traditional Italian dishes made vegan.

6. Holland America’s Plant-Based Evolution

Holland America has revamped its culinary program to include extensive vegan options without sacrificing its renowned service quality.

The main dining room features a dedicated vegan menu that changes daily, with options ranging from comfort food to gourmet cuisine. The Lido Market buffet includes a “Plant-Forward” station with rotating global cuisines and made-to-order options.

Breakfast features vegan omelets, pancakes, and a variety of plant-based proteins, while lunch and dinner offer international dishes with clear ingredient labeling. The cruise line’s commitment extends to desserts, with vegan ice cream and baked goods available at every meal.

Holland America’s specialty restaurants have embraced plant-based dining with creative alternatives to their signature dishes. The Pinnacle Grill offers “Mushroom Wellington,” while Tamarind serves vegan sushi and curry dishes. The cruise line also offers cooking classes on plant-based techniques and hosts special vegan dinner events.
7. Princess Cruises’ Vegan Vacation Experience

Princess Cruises has transformed its dining experience with an extensive plant-based program developed by certified vegan chefs. Their “Crafted” menu features innovative dishes like “Zucchini Spirals with Beyond Bolognese” and “Chickpea Power Bowl” that satisfy both taste and nutrition requirements.

The main dining rooms offer rotating vegan specials alongside their permanent plant-based menu. The Horizon Court buffet maintains dedicated vegan stations with clear labeling and has trained staff to prevent cross-contamination.

Breakfast includes plant-based eggs, pastries, and a variety of milk alternatives, while lunch and dinner feature global cuisines with vegan proteins and sides.

Special dietary requests can be accommodated in advance, with personalized menu planning available for longer cruises. Princess also offers a vegan afternoon tea service featuring plant-based scones and pastries. The cruise line's dedication to vegan options extends to room service, with 24/7 availability. These cruise lines showcase a new era of plant-based cruising, where vegan and vegetarian dining options go beyond basic salad bars. Your next cruise vacation can be a culinary adventure that aligns with your dietary preferences.

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Experience the Ultimate Indian Street Food Fantasy in Kolkata, India: Step into Curry Heaven and Indulge in the Best Street Food in the Country
Discover the vibrant and delicious world of Indian street food in Kolkata, India with a full street food tour showcasing the best the country has to offer. From savory samosas to flavorful curries, the street food in Kolkata is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored.

When visiting Kolkata, be sure to indulge in the unique and mouthwatering Indian street food and Bengali delicacies that line the streets. The flavors and aromas of the street food will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. From spicy curry dishes to sweet jalebi, the variety of street food options in Kolkata is endless.

To capture the essence of the Indian street food experience, we embarked on a journey to taste the best street food Kolkata has to offer. Starting with a traditional Indian breakfast of samosas, potato curry chickpea sabzi, and hot tea, we kick-started our day with a burst of flavors and energy.

Our next stop led us to a picturesque lunch stall that felt like stepping into curry heaven. With a plethora of curry options to choose from and a steaming pot of chicken biryani, the aroma of spices filled the air and left us craving for more. The tender chicken and fragrant basmati rice were a match made in culinary paradise.

Continuing our street food adventure, we sampled a variety of dishes that Kolkata is renowned for. From Kolkata Fish Fry to Pani Puri and Rasgullah's, each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors that showcased the rich culinary heritage of the region.

As we explored the bustling streets of Kolkata, we stumbled upon hidden gems that offered unique and delicious street food experiences. Whether it was the Haleem Beef Stew near Arsalan Biryani Shop or the delectable Indian desserts at Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick, each stop added a new dimension to our culinary journey.

For those looking to embark on their own Indian street food adventure in Kolkata, here are some must-visit locations that promise a gastronomic delight:

1) Indian street food Vegetarian breakfast: 168 A, Sarat Bose Rd, Lake Market, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700029
2) Incredible Indian curry HEAVEN lunch: GP Block, Sector V, Salt Lake City, Kolkata
3) Amazing Kolkata Fish Fry: Mitra Cafe, 23/37, Gariahat Road, Golpark, Kolkata
4) Pani Puri at Pravesh Pani Puri
5) Rasgullah's and Indian desserts at Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick, 2, Paddapukur Road, Jadubabur Bazar, Bhowanipore, Jadubabur Bazar, Bhowanipore, Kolkata
6) Haleem Beef Stew near Arsalan Biryani Shop, Park circus

Join me, Trevor James, on my culinary adventures as I explore the diverse and delicious world of food. From street food in Kolkata to traditional Chinese dishes in Chengdu, I aim to showcase the authentic flavors and local cuisine of each destination I visit. Subscribe to my channel for more food-filled videos and join me on this mouthwatering journey around the world.

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Experience the best of Indian street food in Kolkata and immerse yourself in a culinary adventure like no other. Whether you're a fan of spicy curries or sweet desserts, the streets of Kolkata are waiting to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Join me on this delicious journey and discover the vibrant flavors of Indian street food in Kolkata, India.