I’d wake up in…
Kyoto, Japan, one of my favourite cities in the world.
And stay at…
Hotel Mume which is a modern boutique hotel with only 7 suites located at the picturesque Gion area. It’s a lovely home away from home with supreme service.
Breakfast would be…
Probably Kyoto style pressed sushi which is called Saba-sugata-zushi.It is actually mackerel fermented in vinegar and packed and rolled with rice and kelp.It’s truly delicious and I would eat it night and day!
I would wear…
My favourite Steve Madden loafers so I can comb the streets and walk for miles comfortably.
And take these travel essentials…
Aesop skincare.I am addicted to the Parsley Seed facial range so I use it on all my trips as well as at home. And of course my bluetooth headphones for music.
I’d listen to…
Indie jazz and blues bands at Cafe Independents, part of the underground music scene, or Lauren Hill on iTunes.
And visit…
The serene gardens of Kinkakuji Temple. The grounds are peaceful and I can hear myself think while getting in touch with nature.
Have lunch at…
Nishiki market for all the weird and wonderful local flavours.
Buy…
Acarton of dried saba, to steam, bake and grill, using a multitude of experimental recipes with my Gaggenau steam combi oven.
Hang out with…
AJapanese chef to learn the proper usage of sacred local ingredients.
Relax at…
An outdoor spa eg Ohara Onsen which is only half an hour away from the city. It’s located in a valley and it is a truly peaceful and relaxing way to unwind.
Drink…
Ice cold Qoo in a green pouch with the picture of a cat since I love cats.The pouch can be squeezed so you enjoy every drop right to the end.
Chat with…
The concierge at Hotel Mume who knows everything and everyone.
And wind down the evening having dinner at…
Ippudo Ramen in downtown Kyoto, because their broth is richly divine while the gyoza dumplings served with mustard leaves are icing on the cake!