The Yoga Barn - Ubud Bali

I stumbled upon The Yoga Barn by chance. One of my followers sent me a message telling me that if I found myself in Ubud, a spiritual village nestled in the mountains of Bali, that I better head there because I would love it! Well, I am obsessed and will return.

Tucked away in the centre of town is a lush green, calming and beautiful property called The Yoga Barn. Centred around Yoga and Ayurveda this property is filled with all that you could ask for to the point that I didn't want to leave for a few days. It is silent and peaceful, you feel like you can exhale the second you walk in. Next time I visit I will definitely look into the accommodation that they offer and stay there as a retreat for a few days of Yoga and healthy eating.

The property has several cafes and juice stands which makes healthy eating so easy. I was pleasantly surprised at how affordable the food is and how tasty each meal was. Offering an Ayurvedic menu along with other healthy options that are plant-based, the cafes work together with the healers and ayurvedic doctors that also have rooms on the property. This means that you can see the practitioners and then follow their detox by getting the food at the cafe and stay in comfort. It is the perfect all in one offering. Easy, simple and delicious. The cafes are also open to the public so you can pop in even if you aren't catching a yoga class.

The Yoga Barn offers several options for Yoga and each class is different. You can choose a more advanced flow class or bring it back home with a beautiful Yin class by candlelight. Classes run throughout the day and I recommend popping onto their website or visiting them once you arrive at the Yoga Barn to book your classes. Whether sound healing or meditation is your thing you will find it there. It's like a cocoon of spiritual happiness.

The teachers are from all over the world and each class is longer than your normal 60 minutes in the city. Averaging 90 minutes. Allowing time for play and personal instruction. The venue is enclosed by nature and filled with yogis from all walks of life. I managed my first headstand with proper instruction and learned how important it is to trust myself. A rather big lesson I hope to carry on in my day to day life.

I got an appointment with a cranial sacral therapist who shed some light on my healing journey with Pcos. I highly recommend treating yourself to an appointment with a healer. It's a very precious self-love gift that can help you look deeper into your journey and understand more of yourself. Joining a sound healing class afterward by candlelight with the frogs chirping was perfection.

I am already planning my return to be honest. I dream of Ubud and most defiantly The Yoga Barn.

-Melissa

Stepping into Summer with Maaji and Colourbox

Swimwear and active wear is always a challenging conversation with self. I always have the question of, “do I want a full piece”(which in my head probably looks better) or “Shall I get a bikini”(that I love wearing more) but that can leave me feeling slightly more self-conscious. Will the pants split when I do yoga or is the fabric thick enough to not perish.

I’m always on the hunt for the ultimate swimwear/activewear destination and thanks to Colourbox I have found the perfect fit. Not only is the shopping experience unparalleled with the fitting experience and attention to detail but it is also the ultimate luxury resort wear destination which includes amazing brands such as Moses sandals, Mr Boho Sunglasses and Maaji swimwear and active wear. Bringing you the latest and greatest from top international and local lifestyle brands, Colourbox is your one-stop fashion and lifestyle destination. Since inception, it has been the express mission of Colourbox to source only the most colourful, comfortable and above all, unique items that not only look and feel fabulous, but also enhance the vibrant and free-spirited energy of today’s discerning fashion-lover.

With my shopping hat on, I decided to try both the bikini and the full piece costumes. Did I mention that both are fully reversible? With bright and beautiful patterns and a unique style in shape on all tops you are bound to find the perfect fit for your body that leaves you feeling secure, comfortable and beautiful. It’s always in the detail right down to the way the bottoms don’t cut into your skin due to the double lining and stitching. A more comfortable swimwear line I have yet to discover. The sizing guide and online shopping experience is smooth and easy but if not you can always visit one of their stores. Just make sure you are aware that you will probably blow your budget! 

Mr Boho is a fun and fresh Italian sunglasses range that has an exciting summer collection that includes colour rimmed glasses. To be honest whilst trying them on; I had a flash of seeing myself in a cobble stoned courtyard eating gelato in Italy. Perhaps colourbox is not only the ultimate resort wear luxury range but also the ultimate inspiration to get that ticket out of here. The thing I loved the most about the range is that they are the type of sunglasses that look good on almost everyone! 

Every good holiday in my mind has some fun activities. Be it yoga or hiking you are going to need the attire and again, Colourbox to the rescue. From sports bras to leggings they have something for everyone. I love that the leggings are high waisted making me feel like I can go securely into any yoga pose without fear of revealing a little too much. The patterns are bold and beautiful which are representative of the brands origin in Brazil. 

They say these boots are made for walking but they haven’t heard of Moses sandals. With a vanilla smell and a wide range of colours these babies are my official favourite shoe and if the shoe fits, buy it in every colour. Which is the plan. They are so comfortable that I wore them every day in Bali and they haven’t left my feet since. I think I might have developed attachment issues to them. If you don’t have a pair then you are missing out and yes, they are the best Christmas present you will find either for yourself or a loved one! They come from Israel which again leaves me thinking of walking the old city of Jerusalem eating baklava in the Arab quarter and putting my wish in the western wall. 

So thank you to colourbox. Not only do I have the best arsenal for any holiday destination but I also have the wildest wanderlust a girl can think of. Visit their site and get shopping. I’m sure they will inspire you to do the same!

-Melissa

A Guide to the Ultimate Girls Day Out In Cape Town with She Said & The Truffle Journal

So you have 24 hours and you need to know what to do in Cape Town? Although I am lucky enough to live here, Anna-Belle my mate from Joburg is often down and I love showing off this amazing city! Its been really awesome being an entertainer and sharing all this amazing city has to offer! So we decided to put together a little list of things to do on a girls day out. Whether you are a tourist in Cape Town or local there is plenty for everyone and who says the perfect date cant be with one of your besties? Here is our list of activities that we get up to when we have time together!

The Oranjezicht city farm market on a Saturday

The market sadly only runs on a Saturday but if you find yourself available you won't be disappointed. Breakfast starts early and if you get there around 8:45 then you will miss all the crowds and get to tuck into local, fresh, artisanal food that will leave your belly in a very happy place! With each store offering something unique and different you should be prepared to do some shopping and pick up yummy gifts for family and loved ones! It is also a great place to get a snack (which we are all about) for a picnic on the beach. 

Jiva at the Taj

No date would be complete without a five-star massage at the famous and beautiful Taj hotel spa, Jiva. I honestly have never been so relaxed. The spa is five-star and the staff has hands from heaven. You will be engulfed in relaxation. With a fruit platter and detox tea post-treatment plus your very own prayer beads as a gift, you will leave feeling like you were on a months holiday in Seychelles. The hotel as such is simply spectacular and an institution of Cape Town. With the company gardens on the doorstep of the hotel, you can take a walk and explore them whilst feeding the friendly squirrels and overlook the splendor that is table mountain! 

Visit the top of Table Mountain

The view is always better from the top and in this case its a guarantee. Table Mountain is the 7th natural wonder of the world and is truly amazing! You can catch a cable car up or hike up and catch the car down. Either way make sure to plan, book online here and take your sunblock and water. You can go up early or catch the sunset from the top. The views are breathtaking and really something to marvel at! Exploring the top of the mountain is amazing so make sure you give yourself some time at the top! 

Visit Clifton beach

From the very top of the mountain to the bottom of the beach. Cape Town has it all. The pristine beaches will leave you feeling like you are in Monaco. With blue flag beaches, Clifton is well known for its ice-cold water and its magnificent sunsets. You can pack a picnic basket and blanket and enjoy the best view in the world. Summer or winter you won't be disappointed! When I watch the sunset's I truly realize how lucky I am to call this place home. It is such a great reset from the hustle of life! 

Pop into the Mojo market for lunch or dinner

The Mojo Market is one of the hippest and happening spots in the Sea Point revival. It is a market filled with different food and clothing stores. It has a little something for everyone. If you want to stick to healthier food and plant-based or indulge and get ribs and ice cream you will find it at the Mojo Market. It's a great spot to meet up with friends and have a beer and a catch-up! 

Catch a Yoga class 

Cape Town has some amazing Yoga studios and it is always a treat to have a flow together. Working up a sweat and letting go of our day is one of our best things to do. Yoga always makes me feel better and lighter. A perfect way to end the day. With classes scheduled throughout you can pick a time slot that works for you! Some studios are Unraveled Yoga, Wild Thing, Hot Dog Yoga and The Yoga Life! 

Dinner at The Short Market Club

As part of the Luke Dale Robert collection of amazing restaurants, The Short Market Club is one of my favourites in Cape Town. The tasting menu is sublime and the wine perfection. A true highlight that shows off the amazing food experience that we have here in Cape Town. Reservations are a must however, you can take a chance with a walk in. 

No matter where you find yourself. Love your friends, be kind and celebrate friendship. It is something to be so grateful for because, in the end, they are the family you choose! 

If you want to see how much Anna-Belle loves Cape Town then click here. 

-Melissa