THINGS TO DO – Page 3

February 3, 2014 by: Sunny London

Chinese New Year 2014 London: Year of the Horse or Stampede?

Giddy up, Sunny friends! If my day in Chinatown is any indication of what the Chinese New Year 2014: The Year of the Horse is going to be like, y’all had better grab those reigns tight!

London holds the 2nd biggest celebration of the Chinese New Year outside of Asia, and this year the biggest events were on a glorious sunny in London day, February 2nd. Sadly, I have to say my attempt at joining the party was an epic fail.

As I made my way to Chinatown, I stopped in a Pret a Manger near Piccadilly Circus for a latte. Oddly enough, for the second time in one week, I received a free coffee.

The past two times I've been in Pret a Manger, I've been given a free coffee by someone. I love this place!

— Sunny in London☀️ (@Sunny_in_London) February 2, 2014

“Year of the Horse?” I thought to myself as I clutched my drink and headed toward the scents of glorious Chinese food simmering in the air, “more like Year of the Lucky Duck!”

But this is where my fortune expired. As I approached Wardour Street, the stampede began. Literally, hundreds of thousands of people had beaten me to the Chinese New Year 2014 party.

I fought for that picture for 10 minutes and nearly lost my camera in the sea of revelers.

<CRACK!>

Aside from all the wonderful smells emanating from the restaurants, there were tables in the streets so people could share the nibbles outside. I pushed my way through the crowds and grabbed this picture to show you…

And this one which shows some of the items for sale which represent the Year of the Horse…

<CRACK!>

Whooooooa, that’s enough. What was that damn noise I kept hearing every five seconds?

<CRACK!>

It seemed to be coming from the ground, but I couldn’t see my own feet in the mobs of people.

After nearly an hour of crowd surfing, capturing interrupted pictures, and dodging floor firecrackers, I surrendered and took a walk toward my buddy, Big Ben. While passing Trafalgar Square, I could see there were even more events occurring.

But, that’s as close as I could get. Do any Sunny friends know what was happening on the stage? And how did this guy manage to sift through the crowd on a bicycle?

<CRACK!> <CRACK!> <CRACK!>

Ok, now I had narrowed the noise down to small children. They were throwing a handful of something on the ground, and when it hit, that sound happened…. <CRACK!>

At this point, my head was spinning…. Much like I’ve had a bottle of wine and taken a high-speed ride on this…

As I got further away from cha cha Chinatown, I found a British way to celebrate Chinese New Year 2014, Year of the Horse “Guard”.

However, even then I couldn’t get a clear shot of my image without someone stepping in the way. Hey lady, don’t you know I’m trying to blog here?!

Ahhhhhh. Much better.

I spent a while walking around Buckingham Palace, and then headed to my personal oasis, Covent Garden. Just as I turned a corner near Floral Street, this sign beckoned me down Rose Street…

Where I finished my day at the end of this road, with a bit of liquid sunshine.

So, Sunny in London friends, how was your experience celebrating Chinese New Year 2014 London? What tips and suggestions do you have for me next year? And WHAT WAS THAT CRACKING NOISE?

January 23, 2014 by: Sunny London

HOT Things to Do in Carnaby Street

When I mention “Carnaby Street” you might conjure up images of bohemians, 60’s mods, punk rockin’ Sex Pistols, and perhaps the great international man of mystery… Austin Powers. YEAH BABY!!! What you might not realise is this wildly popular London area has maintained its edge for decades through a focused goal of offering unique experiences for everyone. Take it from this Florida girl, there are some seriously HOT things to do in Carnaby Street NOW!

Foremost, the area sets itself apart from others by striving for one of a kind establishments. For example, the Benefit Cosmetics store is the only one in the world that also offers spa services. Who wants to join me for a full day of research for an upcoming story? 😉

The Dr Martens store also offers bespoke services (American friends, that means “custom-made”)

To keep things really hot, I’m suggesting you check out these highlights:

KUA AINA BURGER and SANDWICH GRILL-

With a magnetic force, the sign out front, “Lava-Grilled Burgers…Served with a Side of Sunshine” pulled me inside.

The friendly staff each proudly bounced around in their Hawaiian themed attire and quickly seated me at a charming table. Within minutes, I placed my order for a lava-grilled cheeseburger and started enjoying the lovely beach themed atmosphere.

My cheeseburger absolutely dissolved in my mouth and my only complaint was that entire experience lasted less than a half an hour due to the efficiency of the staff. For those eager to try it and channel their inner Barack Obama (I hear it’s one of the President’s favourites), the restaurant is also in Honolulu, Haleiwa and Tokyo. Aloha Baby!

THE RUM KITCHEN-

This “Caribbean inspired beach shack restaurant” is nestled on the 2nd floor of Kingly Court.

Their cocktail menu is a match for any Rum enthusiast, and I can’t imagine there’s anywhere better in London to devour Caribbean Jerk Chicken. While sipping on my Pina Colada, I found it hard not to start dancing to the Caribbean vibes resonating from the walls.

DISCO-

And, if you’re like me and fancy a hot night of dancing, you really need to hit Disco. There’s numerous nightclubs, pubs, and wine bars in Carnaby, but this one is really jumping.

With its “design to invoke the glamour of Studio 54,” this club is frequented by Strictly Come Dancing cast members. Be sure to get on the Guest List before you go, Sunny friends!

SWEATY BETTY and TRIYOGA-

If you like to make a great impression while you sweat, I suggest these two locations. Sweaty Betty was founded by a Londoner in 1998 and has since rocked the athletic attire industry. The Sweaty Betty Carnaby store doesn’t just sell their gear, it also offers exercise classes.

However, if you want information “Hot off the Press”, you might want to take an afternoon yoga class at Triyoga. Due to the numerous media offices located within the area, I’m told many journalists hit this studio on their lunch hour.

CAMELLIA’S TEA HOUSE and MOOSH-

With all this hot fun, you’re going to need to deescalate, Sunny friends. If you fancy a truly British cup of tea and beautifully baked sweets, just across from TriYoga is Camellia’s Tea House.

This oasis on the top floor of Kingly Court specialises in loose leaf teas containing only naturally grown ingredients. They hand-blend their teas in London. Camellia’s also offers a gorgeous selection of teapots, cups and accessories for purchase.

And finally, a great place to simmer down and chill is Moosh, a real fruit and smoothie café that claims to be a “healthy indulgence to take you to your happy place.”

I can certainly say that the Kickstarter shake (freshly ground cucumber, avocado, apple, lime and wheatgrass) I drank certainly made me feel Sunny all day. (See if you can spot it in the pictures below)

I spent two full days touring Carnaby, which is now my new favourite place. Checkout their website to learn about their Privilege Card and an app you can download for a 40-minute historic tour.

I’ll keep you in the loop when I get inside tips for competitions, shopping events (joined with Grazia and GQ magazines) and more hot things to do in Carnaby Street!

December 5, 2013 by: Sunny London

Searcy’s Champagne Bars and One Holiday Rule!

There’s nothing better than a tall flute (or two or three) of champers to take the edge off of holiday shopping and travel. Because I know all my Sunny in London friends are super busy during this crazy time of year, I’ll keep this one short…

You have one rule from me to follow this holiday season- Always find a slice of time and money in your financial budget to treat yourself with a bit of bubbly each week.

My drunk of choice happens to be sponsored by Searcy’s. Well, not technically. They’re not sponsoring this post, but I damn sure wouldn’t complain if they extended an invite for me to write another one and hooked a sister up with a free glass of life’s elixir. Hee hee hiccup.

Anyhow, it’s simple. They have venues all over London to help you follow my rule. The three that I have been to are:

St. Pancras Grand Champagne Bar

Yes, this picture is a bit dated, but it’s the first Searcy’s I visited, so it’ll forever be in my personal bucket list Hall of Fame. I love the panoramic view you have of the entire terminal. If you’re travelling through St. Pancras, build in some extra time to take the edge of your trip jitters and stress by doing some pre-celebrating at this gorgeous bar.

Next, BOTH of London’s Westfield shopping centres can satisfy your adult beverage taste bud cravings.

Sipping Searcy’s at Westfield London Shopping Centre, Shepherds Bush.

I wasn’t able to buy anything that day at Dior, but I sure felt like a rockstar outside sipping my champagne. With each taste (more like gulp), I thought about everything I also wished I could afford at the surrounding stores, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Pradahhhhhhh…

One thing that does make this liquid indulgence slightly more affordable is being a member of their “Club Bubble.” This means you have their champagne loyalty card, invitations to tastings and special events, and birthday discounts. Check it out Sunny friends!

Finally, on the other end of London town, is Searcy’s Westfield Stratford City.

As you can see, equally as delicious.

So, my Sunny friends, don’t forget your inner sunshine in the hustle and bustle leading up to the New Year. Oh, and of course, let the skies rain champagne on you for the 31^st. Anything else simply wouldn’t do. 😉

DISCLAIMER: the author of this post takes no financial responsibility for what you spend at either of the shopping centres after your visit to Searcy’s. (In other words, drink responsibility so your credit cards don’t hate me later!)

November 19, 2013 by: Sunny London

How to make Winter Wonderland wheely fun!

No proper Londoner misses Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park! It kicks off this year on November 22^nd at 5pm and lasts until January 4th. It’s one of the most anticipated annual events in town and is for any age.

You can skate in the ice rink, shop in the Christmas markets, visit the famous Bavarian Village and go to Santa Land for a visit with Father Christmas.

Perhaps you might wish to have a stein at the Star Tavern and Village Square and then pop over for a pint at The Carousel Bar while dancing to a live DJ as you spin 360 degrees? Ok, maybe don’t do them in that order, but they are both very fun!

I’ll be honest, those pictures were a bit staged. I’m not a beer drinker. It was too great of a photo opp to skip.

I actually really enjoy champagne, and of course, Winter Wonderland has that too. For £55-£60, you can purchase a VIP Pod on the Giant Observation Wheel.

It seats four people per pod. This price is for the whole pod, not per person. (Phew!) For an additional £30, you can have a bottle of champagne for your ride. It’s a bit pricey for an experience that lasts 12-15 minutes, but for a special occasion or bucket-list activity, I recommend it. However, it can be rather comical.

You begin by booking your tickets in advance online. That’s not complicated, but it does require gambling on the weather forecast for your plans. When you arrive, you need to let the attendants know you have special tickets, and then you wait in a designated area.

Once you receive your bottle of bubbly, you board your pod and off you go- 60 metres up in the air. Unfortunately, the night we went it was a bit rainy and very windy. Our pod’s door didn’t quite close all the way, so I was frantic about our safety. Pounding a bottle of champagne while trying to snap pictures of the view as the pod shook from the wind was hilarious. Drink, snap, look, scream. Drink, snap, look, scream.

We had a blast. Also, we purchased some ride tokens and rode one of the roller coasters. As a girl who grew up in Orlando’s theme parks, I have to say the coaster was pretty thrilling.

If you can, try to avoid a Saturday, as it’s the busiest day for attendance. There were a few occasions last year when they did stop allowing people to enter Winter Wonderland because of high crowd levels, but certainly make the effort to go this year if you are in London.

Please let me know about your experience!

November 12, 2013 by: Sunny London

Hyde Park, Santa and warm, bubbly water

Santa Land, the Giant Observation Wheel, and the Bavarian Village. In just over a week Hyde Park will be completely transformed in to a magical Winter Wonderland.

While these six weeks of outrageous holiday revelry are a highlight of the Christmas season for many Londoners (including me!), Hyde Park’s other attractions throughout the year add to its allure.

Going for a 5 mile run on one of the park’s footpaths is one of my favorite activities on a Sunny in London day. Taking a boat ride on the Serpentine is high on my list of must do’s. However, even though I know it’s popular to swim in the water, I think it’s best for me to leave that with these two…

With all of these adventure opportunities, sometimes people forget that Hyde Park is also the location of three different memorials. The most recognized is the Albert Memorial, which Queen Victoria commissioned in memory of Prince Albert.

It’s located north of the Royal Albert Hall in Kensington Gardens.

Next, there’s a 7 July Memorial which features 52 pillars honoring the victims of the 7 July 2005 London Bombings.

Finally, the Diana Memorial Fountain opened in 2004, and for me it’s the most captivating. It’s built from pieces of granite, is intended to reflect her life, and symbolises her quality and openness.

After a little research with Royal Parks, I learned the water flows from the highest point in two directions as it cascades, swirls and bubbles before meeting in a calm pool at the bottom. Also, it’s continuously being refreshed and is drawn from London’s water table.

The sparkling, flowing water and serenity in this area beautifully balance the chaotic atmosphere of the Christmassy festivities featured in Winter Wonderland. It’s certainly one of my favorite places to find sunny adventures in London.

What activities in Hyde Park would you recommend?

November 5, 2013 by: Sunny London

The Charles Dickens Museum and a curious conversation with Nan

Prior to living in London I was preparing for a holiday trip here and had one of my most memorable weekly phone calls with my Grandmother. Because she never had opportunities to travel internationally, she was very curious about life across the pond. She asked, “So, what do they do for Christmas over there? Do they celebrate it?”

I responded playfully to her innocent question, “Grandma! Helllllooo??? CHARLES. DICKENSSSSS. They INVENTED Christmas!”

Without hesitation, she fired back, “Sunny!!!! JESUS INVENTED CHRISTMAS!”

There’s nothing like a verbal smackdown from your 87-year old Grandmother.

While she is undeniably right, it also is fair to say that historians would support the fact that Charles Dickens shares responsibility for creating much of the way Christmas is celebrated today in America and the UK.

After my trip, I explained the similarities and differences between the cultures during the holiday season to my Grandmother, which I know is the information she really wanted through her question.

As we roll in to the holiday season, I feel it’s best to start by recognising one of England’s most influential literary and cultural figures.

On a beautiful sunny in London day, I visited the Charles Dickens Museum on 48 Doughty Street in Bloomsbury. It’s where he lived from 1837 to 1839 and wrote ‘Oliver Twist’ and ‘Nicholas Nickleby’.

After paying £8 for an adult ticket, I spent about an hour and a half walking through the residence.

During my time, I stood in Dickens’ study. I’m sure any literary lover could appreciate how I examined the desk and books and attempted to transcend in to the mind of the author in the very room where he crafted his tales.

Another treat was walking around his Dining Room. As I stared at the artifacts, I envied how much information they had absorbed. I’m sure many great, colorful conversations were captured in these walls.

Throughout the home, there were treasured works of art crafted for the novelist.

In the basement, I enjoyed seeing the Kitchen, Scullery and Washhouse where servants maintained the household’s daily activities.

When I made it to the top floor, I saw the most powerful display. Dickens, a strong social commentator, made the biggest statement about his life to me when I stepped in to a room which displayed this…

The description with it indicated that Dickens forever wanted a reminder of his past by obtaining bars from the Marshalsea Debtors’ Prison in which his father spent time during his childhood.

Quotations from his very successful works decorated the room’s walls.

If you’re looking to celebrate the impact Charles Dickens made on the written word and the holiday season, a visit to the Charles Dickens Museum is well worth your time. The staff was exceptionally knowledgable and friendly.

November 14, 2014 by: Sunny London

Covent Garden Christmas and a Beauty Balm Giveaway!

Covent Garden Christmas celebrations have officially kicked off! For me, this is truly the most wonderful time of the year. Combining my favourite holiday with my favourite place in the world makes me burst with inner sunshine! And, to make things super spectacular for Sunny in London readers, I am hosting a giveaway with my favourite British brand… Neal’s Yard Remedies!

Ohhhhh yeahhhhh!

However, just before I share how you can win an extra special beautilicious treat, I am giving you the scoop on what’s going down in my #1 hood this holiday season.

Foremost, the halls have been decked.

Although you probably have seen pictures of the famous Covent Garden Christmas balls already on Instagram. They’re very popular each year. But, did you know I actually bought a coat to match them?
Yep. That picture is from December 2011. I was living in the US then. I had a sneaking suspicion that my London boyfriend was going to ask me to be his ‘Mrs’ over my Christmas visit. So, I planned perfect, photogenic outfits for my trip. When I saw pictures of the Covent Garden Christmas decorations, I purposely bought a coat to match them. Can you say ‘Disco Diva’?

Aside from getting pictures in front of the Covent Garden Christmas tree, I also wanted to pet a real live reindeer.

Did you know you can do that? Rudolph’s buddies became available last Saturday. They should be there every Saturday until Christmas from 12-4pm. My visit in 2011 wasn’t timed right, so I missed the opportunity. It’s #1 on my list of things to do this year.

Also joining the Covent Garden Christmas party for the first time ever this year is a giant 22-feet tall silver reindeer.
And, here’s London’s biggest and brightest hand-picked Christmas tree for 2014… It has 150,000 sparkling pea lights, Sunny friends!

You can read all about everything that’s happening in Covent Garden throughout the holiday season. But right now, I want to focus on one area- Neal’s Yard. This ‘street’ in the Seven Dials/Covent Garden area is where Neal’s Yard Remedies originated.

Why do I love them so much? It just makes tons of sense to give away one of their most popular products for this week’s #FaLaLaFriday celebration on Sunny in London.

There’s a gorgeous 10th Anniversary Edition of Wild Rose Beauty Balm waiting to land on the face of a super Sunny reader! The award-winning product can be used as a rich cleanser, gentle exfoliant or deeply nourishing balm. It’s without a doubt going to be my #1 British beauty product on my Christmas list.

October 25, 2013 by: Sunny London

Battersea Park, without a Boris bike, on a sunny London day

I had the courage to move to another country, but I still don’t have the courage to rent a Boris Bike.

For readers not yet familiar with this term…Voila!

Meet the Boris Bike, affectionately nicknamed after London’s Mayor Boris Johnson.

This bike sharing scheme began in 2010 and is a popular mode of transportation for Londoners. Well, except this one, who seriously lacks athletic coordination and the ability to maneuver a bike through crooked streets with high speed European drivers and big, big busses!

Since biking it isn’t an option for me on a Sunny in London day, I choose to explore and get exercise on foot. It’s much safer for everyone.

Many times I have gone for a jog through Regent’s Park or Hyde Park, because London’s parks offer such an invigorating experience, especially when the sun is in full force. On this particular day, I wanted to venture south of the Thames to see Battersea Park. Since I’ve only lived in Central London and North London, I have much to learn about what’s south of the river.

I took the Tube to Sloane Square, walked leisurely along the Chelsea Embankment and crossed the Albert Bridge to Battersea Park.

The Victorian park opened in 1858 and it’s most noteworthy landmark is the Peace Pagoda.

It’s too far for me to travel each day for a run, but for those who are closer, I learned the Carriage Drive Circuit is 2.8km and the Park “Boundary” route (Riverside Terrace and Street Pavements) is 3.5km.

However, strolling through the park and absorbing the scenery and serenity was well worth the journey. An extra special treat for this Sunny in London day was a lunch in the beer garden at the Prince of Wales Pub, a gorgeous Victorian pub which is one of the many Faucet Inn locations I have enjoyed since moving to London.

February 28, 2014 by: Sunny London

St Albans Market, Sun and Stinking Bishop Cheese

On Wednesday, Mr. Sunny and I ventured to the St Albans Market to enjoy sun and fun in this beautiful Hertfordshire town. To save money and to enjoy the pubs responsibly, we caught the 84 bus outside our flat and rode it to St Albans.

Aside from High Street shops and restaurants, like Sweaty Betty, Reiss and Bill’s, there’s the traditional St Albans Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, which is open from early morning until 4:30pm. It’s a great way to spend a sunny day!

With over 160 stalls, you can buy just about anything, including my favorite…. glorious, glorious, CHEESE!

In fact, Mr. Sunny introduced me to a new one that day. Have you ever had this?

I haven’t either. He purchased it, under the condition that he would keep it tightly wrapped on the bus ride home, so as not to bother or embarrass me. I still haven’t tried it. It’s quarantined in my in-laws refrigerator.

You can also purchase fish at the St Albans Market. Just as I snapped the above picture for you, the vendor asked the woman purchasing her fish if she wanted it “with the head on or off”. You would think this Florida girl could handle that. NOPE! I took off running! Luckily there was a luxurious spa just around the corner.

23 Market Pl, St Albans AL3 5DP

Once I had inhaled a proper dose of calming ingredients, I ventured back outside to meet Mr. Sunny. Since it was nearly 1pm, we decided to hit our first pub, The White Swan.

Don’t you just love their philosophy above the door? “Life is too important to be taken seriously.”

1 Upper Dagnall St, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL3 5EA

We ordered our standards, one beer and one red wine and enjoyed this traditional Irish pub.

Next, we ventured up the street and debated between these two pubs.

23 Market Pl, St Albans AL3 5DP

Since Mr Sunny is the beer connoisseur, he chose to strut his stuff in The Cock Inn, much to my chagrin.

I was pretty mortified about this experience, but I managed to cope by having another glass of red wine.

Next we spent a few minutes walking around the St Albans Cathedral, which had its beginnings around 1077. You can enter for free, but a small donation is suggested. They also offer guided tours.

Finally, we feasted at a highly recommended gastropub, the Peahen.

14 London Rd, St Albans, Herts AL1 1NG

We shared 3 starters.

Sticky Sausages (glazed in honey, mustard and rosemary, served with a mustard mayo dip), Homemade Scotch Egg with pork and herb brown sauce, Pate Kilner (chicken liver pate and clarified butter with tomato chutney and toast)

And, we enjoyed these entrees…

Salmon and Smoked Haddock Fishcake with parsley potatoes, wilted spinach and salsa verde

Sirloin Steak, 8oz sirloin steak with a grilled tomato, mushroom and fries

Mr. Sunny’s friend who lives in St. Albans also informed us that the Peahen does a fabulous brunch.

Visiting, the St. Albans Market is an excellent activity for a Sunny in London day. It started back in the 9^th century and according to their website, 60%of the traders have been there for 20 years or more.

Also, in St. Albans, you can visit Butterfly World, the Verulamium Museum, and the Roman Theatre. I’d love to hear about them if you go. And, if you’re a fan of Sinking Bishop cheese, I have some you can pick up… FOR FREE! HA!

October 31, 2014 by: Sunny London

Ho! Ho! Hotel Chocolat, a Tasting Adventure!

If you’re looking for a truly intoxicating date night, Hotel Chocolat offers the ultimate experience with their School of Chocolate! Mr Sunny and I spent an evening there captivated in metaphoric cocoa vaults. Here’s all the details for you, Sunny friends!

Through a two hour tasting adventure created for any passionate chocolate lover, we gained insider knowledge and tasting tips. And, we did this all right in London’s Covent Garden!

Hotel Chocolat Tasting Adventure:

We arrived early so we could interview Natasha, an esteemed chocolatier of Hotel Chocolat. She started with the company as a part-time, seasonal employee several years ago. Now, she teaches the classes offered through their School of Chocolate. Quite simply, she’s a chocolate super star.

Two other couples joined us for the intimate experience held below the chocolate store. As part of the course, each person receives 2 glasses of prosecco. Each couple’s table had a plate of bread, cacoa beans, ground cacao beans and a delicious looking bowl of white chocolate.

Well, that’s what I thought it was. Near the start of the class when I thought Natasha wasn’t looking, I went to grab a sneaky piece from my table. Stealthy Natasha immediately looked over and said, “You probably don’t want to do that.”

She informed us the bowl was filled with cocoa butter, which is the fat contained within cocoa beans. It’s also used to make lipstick soft. I did grab bits and pieces throughout the night, but I rubbed them on my hands instead. Ahhhhh so nice.

Anyhow, back to the beans.

Actually, I should say ‘pods.’ Here’s how chocolate looks before the beans. Check out the giant orange pod on my Tasting Tree below…

All of us received a Tasting Tree, which helped us identify descriptive terms for tasting chocolate. The branches had these categories: Look/Sound/Colour, Flavour and Aromas, Mouthfeel and Taste.

It was so much fun trying to determine if the pieces we sampled fell under categories like: Umami, Claggy, Mushroomy, Metallic or Lavendar.

We learned to ‘listen to chocolate.’ This meant snapping a bar like the one above in half next to our ear. A quick, hard sound meant the chocolate was very pure.

Hotel Chocolat first opened in 2004 in North London. They grow their own beans on a plantation in St. Lucia. Further, Hotel Chocolat creates their own recipes and makes chocolate fresh from their beans in their cafes.

Natasha explained the entire process of how Cacao grows and becomes delicious forms of chocolate. We learned how cacoa is farmed and harvested. From giant pods, beans are extracted. Next, the beans are fermented, dried, roasted, winnowed and ground. That, my Sunny friends, is the ‘conching’ process. It takes between 12-72 hours. It is when the mixture is kneaded and gently heated to develop flavor. However, it doesn’t taste very good at this point, at all!

We each got to sample the mixture, which was at the 18 hour mark. Natasha warned us in advance to be prepared. It didn’t have sugar yet. Whoa! If you could’ve seen my face after that spoon was empty.

Throughout the evening we altered between taking notes and sampling one glorious piece of chocolate after another. Of course, we sipped Prosecco often to cleanse our palettes. And, finally, I received my greatly anticipated pieces of white chocolate!

We learned the best ways to get to know chocolate, how to taste it and what to look for. I highly recommend this experience as a fun date night or gift idea. You can book a Chocolate Tasting Adventure by contacting their Tasting Team at experiences@hotelchocolat.com.

We went to the Hotel Chocolat on 4 Monmouth Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2H 9HB. The class is also offered at Aberdeen, Boar Lane (Leeds), Copenhagen, Edinburgh, Manchester, Rabot and York.

Hotel Chocolat Experiential Events:

We also learned that Hotel Chocolat offers other experiences for chocolate lovers of all ages. Their ‘Bean to Bar Experience’ shows you how to make chocolate entirely from scratch. They also have Children’s Workshops! In these classes kids make their own chocolate. Apparently that class is appropriately messy too!

Hotel Chocolat In-store:

If you haven’t popped in Hotel Chocolat (which I’d find hard to believe), they have thousands of unique chocolate products. I especially like the boozy rows below…

And they have locations just about everywhere. I almost grabbed a few chocolate treats at the Waterloo Station store the day I went outlet shopping at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth.

Hotel Chocolat Christmas Gifts:

Here’s a few Christmassy treats they already have in the store, Sunny friends:

However, if you can’t make it, their website it really fabulous. I picked out a few more items for Mr Sunny’s Christmas stocking and put them below.

They’re the: Advent Calendar (£12.50), Christmas Jumper Slab (£5), 12 Portly Penguins (£7), A Bag of Christmas Stars (£16), Christmas Mess Selector (£3.75), Butterscotch Puddles (£5.50), and Jolly Santa (£7). All Christmas stocking fillers are £7 each, or 3 or more for £6 each.

Let me know what you think!

Here’s another tip for you… if you order a box of chocolate or two, make sure you check the box for the menu before you eat them!

Mr Sunny and I had a blast the night after our class when we opened one of our boxes and tried to guess all the chocolates. We didn’t find the paper indicating their names until we finished eating the box. Even though we got them all wrong, we still love Hotel Chocolat!!!

My absolute favourite piece I tried is Billionaire’s Shortbread. It was previously named Millionaire’s Shortbread. When so many Tasting Club members voted it as their favourite (yes, they even have a chocolate club), they upgraded the name to reflect its elite status.

Thank you, Hotel Chocolat for the complimentary evening. You’ll continue to see a lot of Mr. Sunny and me.

Oh! I almost forgot my final tip… Don’t call Hotel Chocolat to make an overnight reservation in the UK! It happens to them a lot. They only have one hotel- on the island of St. Lucia.

Sunny friends, we kicked off ‘Chocolate and Champagne’ week on Sunny in London with Belgian Chocolate and a trip to Brussels.

Chinese New Year 2014 London: Year of the Horse or Stampede?

HOT Things to Do in Carnaby Street

Searcy’s Champagne Bars and One Holiday Rule!

How to make Winter Wonderland wheely fun!

Hyde Park, Santa and warm, bubbly water

The Charles Dickens Museum and a curious conversation with Nan

Covent Garden Christmas and a Beauty Balm Giveaway!

Battersea Park, without a Boris bike, on a sunny London day

St Albans Market, Sun and Stinking Bishop Cheese

Ho! Ho! Hotel Chocolat, a Tasting Adventure!

Hotel Chocolat Tasting Adventure:

Hotel Chocolat Experiential Events:

Hotel Chocolat In-store:

Hotel Chocolat Christmas Gifts:

THE ESSENTIAL 1st TIME GUIDE TO LONDON

HARRY POTTER

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