If our little country has finally been transformed into a winter wonderland, we are not at home. This trip to London has been planned for months and fortunately, we were also treated to beautiful snowflakes there, but the temperature was not low enough for the snow fun to exist. And just when we joked about a canceled flight, we received an email from KLM that there was complete chaos and that the next flight would only go two days later. In the end, we found a flight for a day later ourselves, so one extra night was still manageable with all the work obligations at home. Gladly, because one more extra day and I would seriously have to look for a side job to afford this trip. But I do have some amazing London tips for you.

To immediately send you on a spending spree: The Chiltern Firehouse is a must-visit during your next trip to London. Now I must say that everything in that city is expensive, but during your breakfast, lunch, or cocktail at this location, it might just happen that you get Kate Moss, Raf Simons, or Orlando Bloom as a bonus. The fluffy pancakes are an absolute must and the cocktail menu is definitely worth a look. Now their ‘door policy’ is quite strict and as a ‘regular’ mortal (which I absolutely consider myself to be), it's almost impossible to secure a spot at the bar. Tip: save up a bit more, because as a hotel guest you have ‘all access’. Or bring an adorable baby with you, because Otis was the hit of the hotel and all doors were wide open for us.

And now some budget tips to compensate for the above trip: for the kids, it's a must to do some shopping at Gap Baby, where there is practically always a sale. Where you should then make a lunch stop is at BAO Fitzrovia: Taiwanese street food that you literally lick your fingers at. People line up for the signature bao buns, so make sure you're on time or reserve a spot. And even when I lost my voice halfway through the trip (which is quite difficult to communicate, I can tell you: Jon and I could now participate in the world championships of Charades), I was sent to a Neal’s Yard, which is absolutely worth it: they make a brew for every ailment. And you'll go crazy seeing their entire organic face & body line.

Last year I received a beautiful Pregnancy Box under the tree from In The Pudding Club, with lovely products and advice to prepare for motherhood. When the owner approached me to put together a Special Edition with my personal favorites, I didn't hesitate for a moment. My Wild Winter Edition box is now available online and is filled with, among other things, my favorite body cream, birth jewelry, pacifier clip, lime for a cozy alcohol-free cocktail (for all the pregnant ladies: I’ve been there during the holidays… Hang in there!), washcloth, aroma spray, and healing stone, and my favorite peanut butter (my absolute addiction back then). The box is now available online and in limited edition, so if you're looking for a nice gift for a pregnant lady or new mother: you’ve found it.