South East Adventures: Brighton Vibes

After our South West adventures in Stonehenge and the Roman Baths in Bath, we explored more of the South East. Our trip kicked off with paying Brighton a visit. This was my second visit to the seaside resort compared to the chaps who were Brightirgins – can I say that?! Nowadays, we can make up words about anything and everything, so my best guess would be – yes, I can say that. The first time I visited Brighton was ages ago – 5 to be precise! Sadly, I was too concentrated to keep an eye on my date rather than Brighton itself. I big mistake when I think about it now. The date was a complete disaster and I wish I could turn back the time but a little bit too late now, heh?! Gladly, November marked my chance to re-visit Brighton with my better half and his friends. This last visit blissfully replaced the disastrous memories of my previous visit.

Although it was a quite miserable and grumpy weather, we tried to make the most of it. With only 4 hours of daylight left, we checked out the Brighton Palace Pier, Royal Pavilion and stopped by Wafflemeister!

Brighton Palace Pier

Opened in 1899, the Palace Pier was the third one to be constructed in Brighton. It is home to fairground rides, bars, restaurants and deckchairs to enjoy the sea view. Unfortunately, the weather only allowed us to have a short walk to the pier and sort of enjoy the view of the stormy sea. The child in me cried a river as I faced the fact that I won’t be able to enjoy any of the rides. The restaurants and crepe pavilions were also closed, which worsened my mood. I probably sound like a spoiled child now, right?! Personally, I think I’m rather easy to deal with in situations like this. Just put me on one of those train rides with a doughnut in my hand and I’ll be on cloud nine!

Mental note to self – visit Brighton during spring or summer and enjoy those damn rides! By the time we finished with our walk, Vlad and I were craving a good hot cup of coffee and something sweet. We decided to investigate what’s within a short distance of the pier and if we encounter a coffee shop on the way, we’ll indulge ourselves with the goodies they’re offering.

Royal Pavilion

Just seven minutes away from Brighton Pier is the beautiful Royal Pavilion with his mixture of gothic and Chinese architecture! There are still some leftover memories of how the pavilion looked like during my last visit. Contrary to these pictures, the place was nearly out of this world when I walked through the gardens during that August afternoon. Nevertheless, it still took a breath or two away and I couldn’t help but fall in love with the Royal Pavilion once more!

Unfortunately, our luck was nowhere to be found as we faced the ‘closed for a private party’ sign. There were still people passing by the sign, so we decided to follow ‘the crowd’ and take some pictures. Then the security guys came and ruined my fashion runway moment by telling us off. A real ‘oh, crap’ moment there!  Fortunately, we didn’t get arrested or worse – our camera wasn’t confiscated! If you’re planning a trip to Brighton, make sure to call them as their website is obviously not being updated. Consequently, you’ll miss the chance of seeing the banquet room, saloon, royal bedrooms and other fancy rooms. If you end up like us, you can always pay £13 and pay the gallery a visit!

Wafflemeister

As the weather got the better of us and we barely saw anything else than the facades of historical buildings, we were determined to find a place to have a quick energy boost! We went through the crowded high street area, full of Starbucks and Costas with our empty stomachs, and just when we thought there is nothing else that can catch our eyes, we saw it. The Wafflemeister! Contrary to popular belief, it wasn’t the name that attracted us but the comfy and calm vibe of the place. Up until that moment, we weren’t even aware of the place. Apparently, it is a rather big chain with over 50 years of experience in the industry!

From savoury to sweet waffles and crepes, sundays and gelatos, thick shakes and frappes, the drool moment was uncontrollable! I went for the very healthy Granola Breakfast waffle with banana, Greek yoghurt, honey, pumpkin seeds and, yes, you guessed it, granola!  Although I wasn’t quite sure of the whole combination, I must admit it was a winner. Super yummy without the after-guilt sensation of being an uncontrollable pig that cannot resist the temptation of a waffle! That’s me, FYI. On the other hand, Vlad and his mate went for Salmon Please and The Club savoury crepes, while Vlad’s brother took a double sugary dose of a huge salted caramel muffin and thick chocolate and Oreo cookie milkshake. How is he not dead or fat I have no idea but I’m jealous…

Apparently, there are a number of Wafflemeisters in London. I know where I’ll be going the next time I’m in the city!

I hope you’ve enjoyed part 1 of our South East adventures as next time I’ll be walking (writing?) you thorough a very disappointing visit to Southampton.

Have you visited Brighton?

P.S: Check out the food + travel category for more travel reviews and food recipes!

x Mariya

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