There are different kinds of treats that happen throughout the month. There’s the sort that often happens halfway through in the form of an ASOS order and the small kind when I wander into somewhere like Planet Organic to buy some crisps. When it comes to something more substantial though, it’s easy to get stumped with the amount of choice out there. I’ve been lucky enough to try out some special experiences around London, things that would be ideal if you’re visiting for a day, want to treat a loved one or just indulge in some me time.
A Cheeky Mani
Can all beauty salons be like this please? Cheeky Parlour is a bit of an emporium of sorts, there’s a barbershop for blokes below, brunch options and the kind of atmosphere that makes you happy to stay put waiting for your talons to dry. Think midcentury furniture that you’ll wish you had and a shop selling anything from accessories to jazzy cushions. The pricing is pretty clear and the fact you get to take one of their branded polishes home with you after some of the nail treatments is a nice touch. Bring a friend along for a catch-up!
Let Them Eat Cake
Afternoon tea is probably the best way to experience some of London’s grandest hotels. As someone renting in Zone 3, I can’t really justify staying in one but I can occasionally turn up for some cake. The newly launched Patisserie parties at Le Meridien Piccadilly are definitely an indulgent experience, after the typical sandwiches and scones you’re invited to pick from an insane amount of baked goodness, there’s two kinds of rainbow cake, cake pops, cupcakes, basically all the cake. Although it’s at the pricier end of the scale, there’s none of the usual afternoon tea awkwardness when sharing out the sweet treats and having to forgo the sole macaron. There’s plenty for everyone, just don’t eat too much beforehand to make the most of it all!
A Massage With A Difference
I’ve become a little bit of a Lush fangirl over the past few months. Not only do they make some nifty treatments for afro hair (H’Suan Wen Hua and Roots are my jam), but you can even go the whole hog and have a spa experience using their products. It’s very rare to be asked what state of mind you hope to achieve before a treatment (I went for perspective), but as expected the Synaesthesia is no ordinary massage and you’re taken on a journey of sorts for 85 minutes. This is just the kind of thing you need when your mind is a bit all over the place, the room is filled with essential oils, the music is specially curated and you feel as if nothing else matters in the world. Afterwards there’s a cup of tea and massage bar to take away with you, so you can keep the relaxed feeling going once you’re home. After a typical rush-hour Tube journey, you’ll probably need it! There’s also a spa at a more central Oxford Street location, though I love any excuse to head West and marvel at all the pretty houses!
Which treat catches your eye?
The afternoon tea photos are really incredible, I completely agree that it's the best way to treat yourself!
Tessa at Bramble & Thorn
i want that Lush spa treatment so badly!! It sounds like just what I need! Still can't afford it even on payday unfortunately though! These all look like such great places!!
Wonderful places! I'd love to revisit the spa I've recently reviewed. Perfect relaxing pay day treat!
Kathryn /Cherries in the Snow
Oh my god, those cakes! <3__<3
Omg, the cake in the first photo looks fantastic! Le Meridien Piccadilly certainly seems luxurious and beautiful. <3
Great post Kristabel, I'd love to go for afternoon tea at some point x
Lovely post. I love little treats for myself from time to time. I may take up the massage as I can expense them through work 😀
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