The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic structure connecting the city of San Francisco to Marin County, California. It spans almost two miles across the Golden Gate, the narrow strait where San Francisco Bay opens to meet the Pacific Ocean. 
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San Francisco is less than 50 square miles and has a population that doesn’t even crack a million, but it ranks as one of the greatest cities in the world. Famous for grand-dame Victorians, cable cars, a beautiful waterfront, and a soaring golden bridge, this city truly has it all. The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks; you can walk or bike across the span to the Marin Headlands. 

San Francisco’s high cost of living starts with a hot housing market. Simply put, San Francisco houses for sale are hard to come by. California is known for its remarkably expensive homes, but San Francisco takes the cake. On the plus side, the economy across the entire Bay Area is on fire right now. San Francisco has a fabulous public transportation system. You have access to cabs, bicycles, scooters, buses, trollies, and light rail so that you can access almost any part of the city.

San Francisco's arts and culture scene is incredibly diverse. There are world-renowned museums, great collections of street art to discover, galleries with glorious collections of paintings and crafts. If you enjoy classical music and dances, there are three destinations to visit the city’s ballet, symphony, and opera. Animal lovers will not pass by the San Francisco Zoo.

You’ll be spoiled with outdoor space. From the wide-open fields of Golden Gate Park to the cliffs of Lands End, the city has plenty of opportunities to get some fresh air. There’s no need to get a gym membership, since there are much more scenic places to sweat. Whenever you feel rundown by city life, going outdoors will be the perfect cure for all. 

There’s so much to do in the city, but a quick drive can land you in the mountains, at the beach, or in wine country. Hike the redwoods, drive out to Yosemite or south to the sunny peninsula. You can be on the slopes in Tahoe in under five hours by car, or go south to LA, San Diego, or Mexico. Napa is just over an hour north, and Half Moon Bay (the beach) is 30 minutes east.

Belle 
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Morocco! A beautiful, mysterious and exquisite country based in North Africa that is laced with culture, architecture and above all the most colourful and delightful fabrics and decorations. So what is going to tempt you to take a trip abroad to Morocco in 2020? It has all the feels of Middle Eastern culture without long flights, visa issues or fears of danger. Morocco may still have its dangerous parts, but the British government has deemed it safe especially in the tourist hotspots, so there’s no better time to visit. 

Morocco borders both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea and has influences from both it’s Arabian citizens and it’s European neighbours, however Marrakesh, its capital is renowned for its beautiful, medieval streets, colourful markets and restaurants which boast only the finest in Moroccan cuisine. Morocco is also incredibly famous for its fashion and fabrics, which make it a wonderful place to buy for your home or gifts. It has plenty of hotels and resorts, and the weather is often mild although it can become incredibly hot during the winter months and it’s probably best to avoid it during these times. Make it your next place to visit! 

What To Do There

There are lots of planned day trips you can take part in if you’re based in Marrakesh. Why not opt for Morocco desert tours which can be incredibly exciting! You can trek through the sandy dunes, taking in its nature and enjoying the culture, seeing village life first hand and feeling part of something very special. For those who prefer a little less adventure, there are always things to do in the city; there are lots of temples to walk around, and the markets are delightful! You can find pottery, traditional textiles, lots of street food and enjoying the culture of the city will give you such a buzz! The Jardin Majorelle is a small oasis in the big city, a beautiful garden full of luscious plants and flowers. The Bahia Palace is a majestic building in the centre which is open to visitors and will allow you to capture the history of the city. Koutoubia is a 12th century mosque where you can experienced the religion of the country and see how the influences of Islam have affected the city, it’s truly a wonderous city that is full of surprises. There is so much to see, you probably need at least a week in the city. 

There are also a plethora of museums where you can soak up all the information as well as art installations around the city and often there may be events on. During the summer, although it is hot and may feel a little suffocating, you will see the city during the time of Ede and get to be part of the festivals and the buzz of the city during this important time of year. Flights are available often from many major airports across the UK and on the whole, Morocco is an affordable city with so much to do! 

Where To Stay

You will find hotels that range from inexpensive to pure luxury. In the hills of Morocco you will find Richard Branson’s hotel, a major five star resort which is a very luxurious stay; but if you want something a little more affordable you might want to look to stay in Marrakesh centre. If you are dubious of staying in a hotel that is independent, then you can always opt for the big chain hotels, which include Radissons, Four Seasons, Hilton and Marriott. You may want to stay in your own place, perhaps an Air bnb, so the best neighbourhoods to look to stay are:

1. Medina - good for first timers, everything is easily accessible and nearby for tourists.
   
2. Kennaria - it is good value, with lots of shops and restaurants nearby that are affordable and there may be good value apartments in this area.
   
3. Gueliz - trendy and hip, plenty of bars, lots of places to relax, wind down, have a drink and plenty of stylish bars, if you’re with friends, this may be a great place to stay! 
   
4. Hivernage - cool and fun, it’s again a great place to visit with friends, it has a nice feel, good community and generally a very cool spot to be in the city.
   
5. Chrifia - relaxed and a little out of the way of the crowds, it’s a little more peaceful and quiet. 
   

So if you’re looking to start your 2020 travel bucket list soon, make sure you add Morocco to your list! 

I love to check out the shopping scene when visiting new country's and city's around the world. The shopping scene in Ho Chi Minh City  (Saigon) did not disappoint at all!

They really do have quite the selection of shops. From you usual stores, to street sellers to gigantic indoor markets. The choice is endless. 

Its so interesting to see the different things for sale. Even the fruit is colourful and exotic and totally amazing to look at. Even the baskets they sell from are super cute 

We found beautiful hand painted ceramics, and hand woven baskets in all shapes and sizes. It reminded me in many ways for the souk in Marrakesh!

Ho chi minh is such a vibrant, creative and industrious city. The ingenuity is everywhere. 

But you haven't really  experienced Vietnamese shopping if you haven't been to Bến Thành Market. Its massively popular with tourists seeking local handicrafts, textiles, áo dài and souvenirs. You can also try the local cuisine here, although I confess we did'nt.

We picked up some wonderful exciting tea's from here along with some beautiful fabrics for future tablescapes. Its a really buzzing place full of life and interesting treasure's. Its the perfect people watching place. 

Just don't forget to negotiate!

​Belle
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