The National Museum of Scotland

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So I have been going to the National Museum on Chamber street for as long as I remember, from when I was tiny to a teen as a place to wander round for free away from the rain. I was sad to see it close for refurbishment, for what has felt like forever, but it reopened on Friday and I loved being back – I felt at home!

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I was really impressed with the way they have reworked the collections, made the gorgeous building more visitor friendly but keeping it very much like the orignal, there are lots of interactive features (which are actually interesting, unlike some museums American Natural History Museum Im looking at you!) The great thing about the National Museum is that its got such a mix of collections, theres something for everyone, but my favourite part will always be animal kingdom!

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I love the views from the roof terrace, one of my favourite places on a sunny day in Edinburgh!

The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street , Edinburgh

The Scottish Ballet

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Last night I was lucky enough to go and see The Scottish Ballet’s A Street Car Named Desire. Now as I say, I’m no ballerina (in my dreams yes) and I’m not a dance critic. I'm Joe Bloggs (see what I did there) and I loved it.

Scottish Ballet continue to push the boundaries of modern dance and of theatre itself. Not only was I blown away by the dancers, as per, but the sets were so simply yet so amazing. I don’t want to tell you what happens with the set, because I want you so desperately to go and see this but its magical .

A Streetcar named Desire was a very provocative play, so no wonder the ballet is the same, but really I think the ballet is even more moving than the play. I actually think words can really describe it. But Scottish Ballet have stepped up to the mark yet again!

GLASGOW
11– 14 April 2012

EDINBURGH
18-21 April 2012

LONDON
26-28 April 2012

ABERDEEN
2-5 May 2012

INVERNESS
9–12 May 2012

BELFAST
16–19 May 2012

Tickets start at £9.25 so Book here!

The Bonham and Chamomile Spa

When I was invited to have lunch at The Bonham and to visit The Chamomile Sanctuary Spa in Edinburgh as part of the Champaign pamper package, I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed.

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The Chamomile Sanctuary is tucked away in the heart of the west end, in an unassuming building, it would be so easy to just walk straight by. I need to tell you about this massage. I have a bad back. I have a nurses back at 22 and usually find it really sore to lie on my back Fiona (I’m sure that was her name, I forgot to write it down) has honestly changed me! I can lie on my back and I’m no where near as creaky and ouchy.

A manicure at Chamomile Sanctuary are just as special, what better way to revive tired hands than a bright pink polish? Not your thing? There are plenty more colours to choose from.

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After our treatments, as part of the package we were whisked round to the The Bonham another hidden gem where we were treated to a 3 course meal. This boutique hotel is as every bit gorgeous inside, it looks over the dean village and dean bridge for those of you who know Edinburgh. Now, I have a secret to let you in on, people say I'm a really fussy eater, I don’t think I am, I can’t eat much dairy or fish but that rules out quite a lot when your eating out!

We arrived and had drinks in the new bar The Consulting Room and had a look at the Market menu, which changes everyday. We started with Cauliflower soup, which I'm not usually a big fan of, but was surprisingly delicious and a massive bowl, we couldn’t actually finish it knowing we had to more courses to come! Next up was Duck, which ask my friends I usually screw my nose up at, but I am a convert! It was truly scrumptious especially with the red cabbage. For dessert we were treated to iced nougat, which as a chocolate lover was something a bit different for me!

We both thoroughly enjoyed our meal, in gorgeous surroundings and were very well looked after. The market menu is £22.50 for a 3 course meal and I’d say its worth every penny especially if you treating someone.

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For bookings contact The Bonham0131 226 6050 ; The Chamomile Sanctuary 0131 220 1000