From hidden-gems to places to people-watch, from bookshops to beauty spots – here is some inspiration, celebrating the independents in our local neighbourhoods around the world.
This week’s selection has been curated by Conor James Doyle whose IG bio reads: ‘plays with hair for money.’ But he really does sell himself short here.
Not only is the Irish-born Conor a L'Oreal colour specialist, former ID artist, and numerous awards winner, but in 2019 he decided to add educator to his list of accolades. Just a simple swipe of his Instagram account and you’ll discover his fresh and fun approach to hair (and its education). And that you can’t stop watching his videos.
FOR FOOD
“There’s a place in Berlin called Roamers. It’s styled in the sort of bare construction aesthetic you come to expect in Berlin, mashed through a western country vibe. The decor is distressed wood, roadkill trophies and sprawling houseplants. The staff are casual and friendly; the eggs benny cures the most harrowing hangovers, and each ‘healthy juice’ can be spiked with a not-so-healthy liquor of choice.”
FOR PEOPLE-WATCHING
“You can’t beat a Dublin Bus: top floor, front row seat. The choice of experience can vary wildly and is determined by your route of choice. For novice users, I’d start with a gentle 61 around midday. For a more seasoned experience, try any nightlink after 3 am.”
FOR MUSIC
“Zrce Beach in Croatia is home to Hideout Festival which turns the usually serene Pag into a ravers' haven. Between the festivals, however, DJs do use the area occasionally for one-off sets or more intimate festivals. The sound system is amazing, and you wind down when the sun comes up across the crystal Adriatic Sea.”
FOR WELLNESS
“I recently attended Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place Festival; my first sober festival. There was so much to offer... There is also the option to have a drink in one of the restaurants should you cave (I did).”
FOR SHOPPING
“Seoul – without a doubt. The streets are quite literally littered with independent merchants and retailers stocking endless aisles of unique garments. The street style is reminiscent of the glory days of ‘lookbook’, with even the more mainstream outlets like H&M offering options that borderline on designer.”