A SUMMERS DAY OUT WITH THE ALL-NEW MAZDA3

Since watching Extraordinary Homes on Netflix, The Optical Glass House in Japan seems to have captured Felix’s imagination and left him wanting to learn more about Japanese architecture and design. Mix this with his love of cars, seeing his face light up when the All-New Mazda3 was delivered to our front door was nothing short of explosive excitement.

As a family we love travel and good design, and always jump at the chance of adventure, whether it’s local or further afield. So when we were asked take the All-New Mazda3 for a test drive to a Japanese twinned town of our choice, we couldn’t resist a fun summers day out.

Twinned with Beppu, Japan’s most spectacular ONSEN natural hot spring city nestled between the mountains and the sea, Bath made the ideal location for us to experience the engineering that goes into the sleek and sporty design of the All-New Mazda3. Loading the kiddos into the car, made easy with the ISOFIX anchorage as standard, we took the scenic route using the cruise control, while Felix excitedly navigated from the back seat and asking whether he could sit in the ‘cockpit’.

We headed into the historic city of Bath, a UNESCO heritage site known for its Roman Baths and honey coloured Georgian architecture and although there are many links between the popular tourist destinations of Beppo and Bath, including thermal springs, a love of rugby and Saki festivals, it is always the open spaces and parks that Felix and Romi make a beeline for.

More than a car and a simple need to get from A to B, I love learning the stories behind great design and every Mazda is designed around one thing, you. Each car isn’t just engineered to move you literally, but to do so emotionally. This is called Jinba Ittai, meaning a sense of oneness between car and driver. Inspired by Japanese tradition, it symbolises the oneness between horse and rider, something entirely natural, like a true extension of your being that brings pure driving pleasure. Pretty cool ay and to be honest it does feel like the car is designed with joy in mind.

We drove past the Bath Holborne Museum in the hopes of cheering out the new Lauren Child: The Art of Illustration exhibition as it was a staple book when Felix was little, but unfortunately they were filming that day so we made mental note to head back next week and drove a little further on to Royal Victoria park.

Apart from the epic playground, this holds a warm and fuzzy place in my heart as we often go Ice Skating here at Christmas and it’s become a bit of a family tradition with hot chocolate, Christmas Markets and looking for a Christmas Eve book for the stockings. Romi got straight into the drivers seat on the wooden toddler playhouse, while her and Felix squabbled over who would ‘drive’ especially as he was keen to pretend he was in the new car using the heads up display, projecting the speed limit, actual speed and next navigation instruction onto the window when driving.

After the kiddos had covered themselves in sand we headed for a quick coffee and nose in our fave two haunts, Toppings bookshop and Mr B’s Emporium. After Paul and I met in a bookshop in London we can’t help but wander around stacked shelves and reminisce with family in tow.

As a surprise addition to our day out, we were gifted a picnic hamper stacked with Japanese goodies from sushi and seaweed to Lychee soft drinks to really immerse ourselves in the experience, before driving up through the narrow streets for a stroll along the infamous the Royal Crescent. Being conscious of driving through the heritage site and trying to be a more eco-conscious I was pleased to learn about the All-New Mazda3 innovative Skyactiv-X engine and its low CO2 emissions, it burns less fuel than a conventional petrol engine but provides better performance. Plus I can confirm that the Petrol needle didn’t seem to move even after a full day out so it’s economical too!

We eventually headed to the perfect shaded picnic spot, as the weather was being temperamental, threatening rain and got stuck in! Sometimes relaxing together outside as a family is just what the doctor ordered and it was sweet to hear Felix’s giggles as Romi gave the sushi experience a suspicious stare!

I wondered whether the car would feel cramped with two children, a 6ft4 husband and pushchair all in a hatchback when we were used to our estate, but in all honesty it didn't feel like that, and even though the boot space is very different compared to an estate it was such a treat to drive the All-New Mazda3. As well as all the cool tech details such as Bose 12 speaker sound system, Apple play and best parking assist I’ve ever seen (I would so need this), it very much felt that this sleek car has been designed and engineered to the enjoyment of the drivers experience.

Note to Father Christmas, Felix is now wondering how he can wangle one of these on his Christmas list or at least visit Japan for the architecture AND the cars. What can I say the kids knows good design!

*This is a collaborative paid post with Mazda. 

We test drove the All-New Mazda3 for five days to get a true feel for the car as part of this review. 

All words and opinions are my own. 

TRIED & TESTED GLUTEN FREE GUIDE TO PARIS

It's feels like an age since we were last in Paris, exploring the city and getting our fill of our favourite hang outs. Ah the beautiful City of Lights, this time I was on a mission to not only to live like a local but to find the best gluten free eats in Paris. Like most things, when the French decide to do something, they do it right! There are soooooo many great places to eat and oh the Gluten free bread was just dreamy, as it can be hard to find gluten free places abroad I thought I would share our gluten free guide to Paris and a few snaps from our last visit.

A FUN FAMILY STAY IN OUR AIRBNB PARIS APARTMENT

Those of you who follow me on Instagram probably know we decided to spend Easter half term with a family stay in our Airbnb Paris *sigh take me back* and I've been dying to show you around the cutest Parisian apartment that we got to call home.
In a spur of the moment, escape the routine and stresses of daily life sort of way, we decided to hot foot it over to Paris on the Eurostar and live like a native for a week. I LOVE Paris, everything about it oozes a special je ne sais quoi, from its architecture to the perfect for people watching outdoor cafes, this city holds a dear place in my heart.

A CITY STAY IN BRUSSELS WITH ACCOR ADAGIO APARTHOTEL

Where has the time gone! It's been quite a few months since I hopped over for a city stay in Brussels with Accor Adagio Aparthotels but I'm finally catching up with myself and I couldn't wait to share our little adventure with you. Way back in March I was invited to explore the city with F and as a treat I thought it would be fun to bring my Mum too.

A EUROPEAN CITY BREAK // TRAVEL

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This week has flown by so quickly that I'd almost forgotten to share our exciting news! On Saturday morning I'll be setting our alarm super early and heading on a mini adventure to spend three days in Brussels with my boy and mum, to celebrate all things good and explore the fab city as invited by Accor Hotels.

We'll be travelling on the Eurostar, much to F's excitement, who can't wait to 'speed under the sea' and explore a new European city. While he's practising his train sounds I've jotted down some must see places and coffee hang outs to feed my addiction.

Image via I Love Yeti

I can't wait to head over to the cosy eclectic interior of I Love Yeti and taste their homemade flat naans and bowl breakfasts. Also I've been dying to lounge in the ultra chic Living Room, which oozes design, ceramics and beautifully presented teas *swoon*. Not to mention the infamous Change Your Lifestyle, otherwise know as CHYL. This cafe, meets beauty, meets shop is an oasis of green in the city and a hot spot for the cool and health conscious. My mum is already excited about the prospect of pampering and a potential reflexology session, while I'll happily hang out with F under their green draped ceiling.

Image via Living Room

I must admit I've visited Brussels once in my long gone university youth, but the city was a blur from  hazy nights out, hangovers and a slim student wallet. So I'm thrilled to be returning to this beautiful metropolis and rediscovering its style and charm!

If you have any recommendations then I will be using Instagram and Snapchat #wildandgrizzly during my stay and would love to hear your top travel tips of places to explore. 

Have a great weekend. 

x

COOL KIDS GUIDE TO PARIS // TRAVEL

Apart from welcoming March, today is also National Plan a Solo Vacation Day... I know right! As much as I'd love to jet off into the sunset for some quality me time by a pool, it's not quite the same with a kid in tow. Saying that travelling with little ones needn't be a chore if you know where to hang out.  

I love taking European city breaks with my boy, so instead of making solo travel plans I've pulled together a cool kids guide to Paris, where you can channel your inner glam while being surrounded by the smalls.

EAT 

When it comes to eating with kids we know that it’s never the easiest of undertakings, what with picky eaters and too many choices. So I’ve made it simple with these three perfect places to eat.

• Do you love pastries and cool ceramic tiled floors with children’s parks within arms reach? Then you'll love this little cafe attached to the Broken Arm store, with super friendly staff and a decent latte *yay* you’ll be happy to have found this pit stop.

• Did someone mention crepes? If you fancy dining in a chic modern wood panelled room in the middle of Marais then this is for you. Breizh Cafe is known as being one of the best Creperies in Paris. Located on 111 Rue Vieille du Temple, this is the perfect place to enjoy a vast range of crepes, savoury and sweet, and they're so delicious they've even popped up in Tokyo. 

• It's busy, it's loud and the kids will feel right at home! You'll see hoards of people queue outside this small and unassuming falafel house, but don't be fooled by its appearance, crowds flock to Rue des Rosiers in the heart of Le Marais to snap up lunch at the popular L'As du Fallafel. Seating is a bit of a squeeze but worth every bite, and if in doubt get take out and eat al fresco.

PLAY

When you think of Paris you don’t necessarily think playgrounds and parks, but this city has some secret gems hidden up its sleeve that are well worth finding.

• Does your child love adventure? Then they will LOVE this! Heading to the highest point in Paris, the superb parc de Belleville will blow your little ones minds. With awesome views of the city, a multi-faceted climbing wall and pirate ship, this is definitely top of my cool kids list. Just be sure you plan your route and head to one of these Métro stations for easy access: Pyrénées, Belleville and Couronnes. 

• If you fancy a gentler approach to the play, then why not take a relaxing stroll along the Jardin du Luxembourg and watch them push vintage sail boats across Grand Bassin duck pond, while you sit back and soak up the sun. Be sure to take €3.50 along for 30 minutes of sailing fun.

• Want to combine coffee and cake with a little play on the side? Then this cute little playground, Square de Temple, situated along Rue Perrée is the perfect picnic spot. 

SEE

Oh the culture! Do as the Parisians do and show your kids the creative side of Paris with these cool cultural spots that will keep your kiddo entertained for hours. 

• Want to impress your little one then head to the Palais de Tokyo where you can sip coffee to your hearts delight, let them run up and down concrete ramps – we know how much they love that sort of thing – and get stuck into some modern art at Little Palais. Just a hopskip and a jump from the Eiffel tower, the best approach to the building is from the bank of the Seine along Avenue du New York or jump off at Alma-Marceau Metro. When you've filled up on art you can ooh and ahh at cool timber structure in the kid’s area then take some snaps in the Foto Automat... say cheese!

• Want to see where the French hang on a Sunday afternoon? Well take a short stroll down Saint Martin Canal and make the most of the pedestrianised Sunday. Families spill onto the street and the tiny playgrounds dotted along the banks will entertain the littlest of people, while you eat ice cream and skim stones like Amelie. Also there’s a cute Park at the end of the canal where ladies meet to do Thai chi and kids can go wild. The nearest metro is Republique and will take you to the start of the canal walk.

• OK this one is a bit of a given but where else can you ride an escalator in what feels like a giant marble run, up the outside of a building? Not to mention the huge selection of art over several floors, a dedicated Children's art learning space, cool design shop and roof top restaurant. Yep the Centre Pompidou has it all, but the cafe is a little on the pricey side.

SHOP

We all know Paris is home to some of the best fashion houses and is steeped in design history, but these are the best stores for all your mini fashionista needs.

  

• Want a store with a difference then head over to Centre Commercial Kid’s over on 22 Rue Yves Toudic, a place that combines cool kids fashion with art and second hand bicycles. Offering the best of French, Danish and English design for all the family.

• If you love to shop and have kids then this is the place to be. Filled to the brim with the latest styles, cool accessories and colourful products you can spend hours browsing the shelves of Bonton located at 5 Boulevard des Filles du Calvaire. It even has its own Photo Booth and props for fun snaps with the kiddo. 

• Combining history and beloved books the  Shakespeare and Comapany Bookshop is situated at 37 Rue de la Bûcherieon on the left bank and is the most famous bookshop in Paris, plus it has the cutest kids section up the rickety stairscase. The whole of the interior screams Narnia meets Harry Potter and will delight curious small minds. Leave the pushchair outside if you want to take a good look round though. 

Image via The Hoxton

STAY

Whether you want to rent a flat and live like a local or relax in the comfort of a hotel, the city is full of hidden gems! We often use Airbnb when we travel as it's so much fun exploring different neighbourhoods and discovering local delights on our morning stroll, if your are using Airbnb you can use this link to get £25 off your first stay. Otherwise check out these super stylish hotel stays! 

• This minimalist apartment in the heart of Marais is slick as they come, compact and ultra modern with two beds suitable for three people. 

• This quirky and colourful apartment in Marais/Beaubourg is full of Parisian charm. Perfectly located next to the Centre Pompidou!

• The Hoxton is known for being one of the hippest hotel stays, whether it's London, Paris or Amsterdam, you know you're going to be sleeping in style! We love the gorgeous interior and outdoor space in the heart of the city. 

• Hotel Mareuil is a perfect family friendly hotel, clean, comfortable and in a fab location situated between Le Marais and Republique. The staff go out of their way to make your stay special and the adjoining rooms are perfect when travelling with more than one child. You can read about our stay here.  

So there we have it, our Wild & Grizzly cool kids guide to Paris. I can't wait to add to the collection as we take our next adventure in Berlin. I hope you've found this useful and don't forget you can pin the top image to your Pinterest to keep this handy guide.

Lori x

Want more? Check out this Gluten Free Guide to Paris or our latest family stay at an Airbnb

*This post contains affiliate links.

OUR STAY AT THE MERINO APARTMENTS IN LONDON

With the Christmas countdown now on I've been planning fun adventures and family festivities for the kiddo to enjoy and even though we've just stepped into December, the weekends are flying by. So with a sparkly weekend of magic planned, last Friday evening we headed to our home away from home, with a stay at the Merino Apartments in London.

Now when I say home away from home, I'm not kidding, as the word apartment doesn't quite cover this luxury boutique serviced three floor house. Yep these 5 star luxury serviced stays are nestled down a small cobbled mews in the heart of Bloomsbury, where every detail is designed to make your stay as relaxed as possible.

After sat nav successfully directed us through central London *high five all round* we were greeted by Andres from the Merino Hospitality team, who happily guided us through the amenities while F squealed with delight on finding a special surprise room on the top mezzanine level.

A FAMILY FRIENDLY STAY AT THE LUXURY MAGDALEN CHAPTER HOTEL

A few weeks ago we were thrilled to be invited to stay at the Luxury Magdalen Chapter Hotel in Exeter – cue me whooping at a night off parenting, exploring a new city, dinner, drinks and mostly a lie in. However as it got closer to 4pm our childcare arrangements changed last minute, a trunki was packed and an excited kiddo was bundled into the car ready for our night away. Not quite what I had in mind but thankfully the Hotel reception were super helpful and didn't bat an eyelid as we changed dinner reservations and asked for our small person to be added to our nights stay.

On arriving at the entrance and beautiful red brick facade, F was beyond excited as we made our way through the glittering crowds enjoying prosecco up to feature room 211, while taking in the array of artwork and design features that adorn the hotel blending old and new.

Our room was the perfect mix of contemporary design with lavish linens, stylish grey felt sofas, my favourite Eames chairs and advanced booking technology with our own iPad providing room service and reservations. Even the multiple lighting options where perfect for creating a relaxing bolthole for the night. Once settled room service turned down F's sofa bed while we busied ourselves getting ready before heading downstairs and enjoying the buzz of the hotel's many rooms; the bars, nooks and cosy library perfectly tucked away for a stylish stay.

Instead of our original 8.30pm reservation, reception kindly changed our table without any fuss to 7.30pm which is late by F's standards, but thankfully the excitement of staying in a hotel had kept him wide eyed and perky and I decided to make use of the extra adrenalin, enjoy a meal together and supress the mama guilt.

The menu was delicious and extensive with a varied list of Gluten free options for Paul, and fab children's menu – win win all round! The best thing was the in depth wine list on the iPad, allowing us to view the interactive list and provide great recommendations to accompany the meal. I tucked into a scrumptious plate of charred red mullet, heritage carrots, ginger beer and scallops while F opted for his trusty pasta option and it wasn't long before we were stuck into desserts with a sleepy boy on our arms.


Thankfully the hotel offered us the choice to download a baby listening app to our room iPad which we could link to our phone, acting as a baby monitor through the thick brick walls of the former iconic Eye Infirmary. Eager to get F down and give this a whirl, I hastily jumped into bed to cuddle my little one to sleep only to wake at 1am realising we had all taken a nap! So after jumping into pj's and turning out the lights I settled down and prepared myself for the early wake up call that is the boy.

Just like clockwork little hands grappled at my face and I blinked awake to see a big cheesy grin peering into my face and a bouncy five year old ready to start the day. After a quick wash with the complimentary REN products, we popped downstairs for breakfast. Bowls filled high with fruit, nuts, seeds and yoghurt, turkish baked eggs and coco pops we were ready to take explore the hotel before wandering into the city for a bit of retail therapy.

I love the collected art work, thoughtful design and commissioned pieces that gives the Magdalen Chapter Hotel its distinct style and creates a pocket of contemporary flair while retaining the countryside at its heart. Paul enjoyed a coffee under the arc of the large palm copper wall painting that adorns the walls by artist Hugo Dalton, while I decided to take a peek at the spa and perfectly formed outdoor heated pool. The blazing log burner and twinkling lights keep the pool cosy and reminded me off the rooftop pools in Reykjavik. I was left kicking myself for forgetting my swimming costume – a perfect excuse to come back though right? That and the cocktails!

The hotel even has a cute vegetable garden for the restuarant and uses the original morgue, which has been transformed into a luxury private dining room for guests and businesses to hire. I love how each of the spaces embodies a different style, dark and moody, light and fresh, each creating a unique atmosphere. I could have stayed curled up in the cosy library by the fire sipping hot chocolate all day *sigh*.

Finally we said goodbye to the wonderful staff who made our stay seamless, packed up our bags ready to head home to Bristol. Not surprising F is still talking about his fun adventure!

*We'd like to thank The Magdalen Chapter Hotel for providing us with a stay as part of this review and being so flexible with our extra guest. All words and opinions are 100% my own.