Malak Kader 

Part 2: Ayurveda on the Body, Mind and Identity 

Part 1: The Effects of Ayurveda on the Body, Mind and Identity

What Is Japanese Forest Bathing and How Can It Improve My Health?

Robyn Landau 

6 Ancient Rituals to Cleanse Yourself

Science Behind the Cosmos 

Mexico

Mexico City 

Temazcal: Mexico’s Soul-Healing Sweat Lodges

Capoeira: Afro-Brazilian Dance of Freedom

Queer Bruk

London

Margate

Incredible beach with an amazingly (and somewhat surprisingly) diverse and safe atmosphere. Margate is rich with culture that is slowly but surely becoming more diverse, making it a great place for people of colour and LGBTQ+ people. 


Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: Lifeguard 

Stanborough Park is a 126 acre plot of land that has two lakes that are beautiful. While swimming isn’t allowed, it’s an amazing place to take part in canoeing, kayaking and other water sports - Welwyn is still relatively close to London, also!

Swim Level: Not for Swimming 

Public Transport: Yes

Facilities: Yes


Trent Park is personally near and dear to my heart, I've had my birthday party underneath the same tree since I was one year old (with the exception of a couple of years) and the place is amazing! Located in North London (Cockfosters), the park is 413 acres and there are many bodies of water. It’s a truly amazing place that is transformative and peaceful.

Swim Level: Not for swimming 

Public Transport:  Yes

Facilities: No 

Cool Off From the Clubs with Queer Bruk’s Water Spots

Psycho YP

Abuja

I’m a huge fan of wings and this is a place I know has great wings. Deffo one for this list

I don’t really go clubbing that much, but I know Moscow is the one people are at.

Got a close friend who DJs there most nights so it’s always a vibe. Outdoor but under like a little cabana type thing. Big vibes.

Abuja with Psycho YP

Arrival at One


The granite boulders at both Shoreditch Park and Mabley Green offer great outdoor bouldering right in the heart of London. These boulders provide both an urban bouldering venue and art installation, chosen from a quarry in Cornwall and brought to London by the artist John Frankland. These boulders offer an exciting alternative for those looking to climb on some rock without the increased cost of travelling to a crag. Plus, their permanent nature offers the consistency that indoor climbing cannot, since indoor problems are changed every two weeks. Free to use year-round, these spots are perfect for climbers of all levels, making it a fun space for beginners to join and connect with one another. 

Muro Climbing Gym in Peckham is a great spot for climbers of all abilities with one of the lowest costs to participate, making it super friendly for beginners and those looking to try something new. Its unique range of Japanese holds make it distinct from other climbing gyms in London and its spraywall — at 20, 30 and 40 degrees — allow for endless board problems for all abilities. Climbing on the spraywall is a super social way of climbing and allows for everyone to be trying problems in the same area, together. They’ve also got a comp wall which allows for more modern-style problems and is a fun switch up from the spraywall.

The Hackney Wick Community Sauna, run by ‘Community Sauna Baths’, is a lovely place to relax after a climb or a run. They have several saunas located throughout London, all of which are super affordable compared to many others. They also offer temperature-controlled ice baths, which are great for in-between sauna sessions. Additionally, they host a variety of workshops and classes throughout the month. It's the perfect way to unwind and feel like you're not in the city, even if only for an hour.

Just south of London, there are several Sandstone climbing destinations. While the climbing quality may not compare to what you'd experience in the Peaks or North Wales, it’s a fun day out from London if you're looking to try outdoor climbing. The spots are beginner-friendly but also offer a range of grades for all abilities. A few venues provide guided sessions where you'll learn to set up top ropes and belay. You can reach them by public transport followed by a short walk. It makes for a great summer day trip! Harrisons Rocks is a favourite.

Knees Up in Hackney is a cafe, community space, and retailer that hosts a variety of events each month, including regular runs, chess clubs, yoga, and strength workshops. Located on Hackney Road, the naturally-lit space is perfect for working or hanging out. The staff are super friendly, and the coffee and food are always delicious, with a fresh batch regularly rotated. The retail space is well curated, featuring magazines, books, activewear, and lifestyle products. 


Pockets, the Hackney spot where the queue starts building from 11AM (breakfast falafel?). Pockets removes any decision fatigue by simply stating the menu as ‘FALAFEL’. Get there whenever you can, and don’t feel ashamed to beat the queues and have falafel for brunch at 11AM. You will not be disappointed. 

Chalk Your Hands and Go: Where to Climb in London with Arrival at One 

Izzy Bossy

Jamaica

Winifred beach has to be my favourite beach its one of the last beaches which hasn’t been bought by foreigners a hub for the community to come and cool af, if you go you must go up to Cynthia’s and get some food just ask for her down on the beach!

Blue lagoon holds a special place in my heart one of my favourite place to swim its hot and cold under and has a magic in the air, if you go down make sure to get a raft trip ask for Beena with the bleached hair and go over to monkey island.

Obviously, I had to put some music-related tings. If you know me you know how much DANCEHALL IS MI EVERYTHING and the best way to keep up with the new music is to get a CD from Junior on William Street.

Boston is the home of jerk. You can’t come to Jamaica and not try it. There are a few amazing places, but you must go to its home, Boston. Go to Mickey's - the first place on the left (if you are facing it). I also always get a chicken sausage from Bumpy as well; you will see him, he is right across.

Corey makes the best fruit smoothies in Port Antonio. He also makes peanut punch with almond milk which is quite rare here, but it’s super yummy. He is based in the back of the fruit market just walk through the shop to the back left corner and you will see him.

This is by far my favourite date night spot. The owner, Vanessa, is one of my good friends and cooks the most delicious food. Get the lobster! Actually, get anything its all amazing !! Also located on Long Bay Beach - you HAVE to go!

Have you ever had a burger with plantain and callaloo? Well then, you must go to Woody's in Drapers. Their burgers are literally so unique tasting and delicious.

If you are going to Rio Grande make sure you head out early as its a full day of rafting. I always drive up and start from Berrydale. You can stop the raft and swim in the river. Also, half way up if you call in advance, you can stop for food at Belinda. She is not there all the time, so you must organise in advance, but I promise you you won’t regret it!

Sanko Bay is a tiny local beach. There isn’t sand, but you can swim and the view is so beautiful. We are currently trying to re-build the community centre situated on this beach to support and give the Drapers community a hub for the locals. We’re also giving free workshops and equipment for our future generation to be able to bloom.

Everyone always talks about Dunn River, but there are so many hidden gems. Reach Falls is much quieter and you can walk down the back of the waterfall where there are holes you can jump through (this will make more sense when you reach). It’s way more chilled and private; take some snacks, drinks & lots of mosquito repellent with you in your bag.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR SOME VIBEZ YOU MUST GO TO MANNAS. You can also pre-order food for small and big groups. Hit up Jason. This is also a must-go!

Coconut shrimp curry to die for. Great for any celebration or just a lovely dinner. Make sore you ask the owner to tell you his story and why he set up soldier camp.

Explore Portland, Jamaica, with Izzy Bossy

Elkka

The now infamous dyke bar and cafe, which opened after 700 lesbians turned up for a 30-cap venue, is one of my favourite spots for day or night time hangs. Expect delicious natural wines, gorgeous artwork, and hand painted tiles crafted by the FLINTA community who helped build the space. On Tuesdays they run a speed dating night as well hosting other cute events. A sacred community space to meet friends and lovers alike.

A radical, queer independent bookshop in Bethnal Green which celebrates the writing, artwork and crafting talents of marginalised and underrepresented communities. They also have a great events lineup including lectures, panel discussions and queer parenting meetups.

If you’re in need of some beautiful and unique ink, Vultures Peck are an amazing and incredibly talented queer tattoo artist based in Hackney.

A dystopian-utopian dyke fantasy club night based at The Yard in Hackney Wick. Expect gogo dancers and your fave FLINTA DJs. Highly recommended to bump into your ex or future wifey.

For post-party recovery or a gentle midweek pause: sauna, yoga, queer poetry nights, and a dreamy place to WFH. The FLINTA sauna sessions are a must.

A gorgeous queer-owned gallery that was setup to promote and empower underrepresented voices and champion the next generation of artists and collectors. Ellie Pennick, the owner and gallerist, also owns and runs FLINTA social institution, Goldie's Saloon, which is located next door.

An inclusive second-hand clothing market run by queer folk selling clothes, art and some music too.

“700 Lesbians in a 30-Capacity Venue”: Elkka Knows London’s FLINTA Scene Is Popping Off

Kwaku

You can do different things without having to go far.  In a group of friends there is something for everyone: food, drink, dance. The fusion [combines] barbecue and Chinese cuisine.


The spectrum of genres available is very eclectic, like my own music taste. My grandad founded the first record label in Ghana in 1954. They released all records on vinyl and it’s been in my life since I could remember.


There’s so much to do in London, there is something for everyone whether it be food, activities and music. It being a multi-purpose space with fusion food available shows that it’s a collaboration of interest and different spaces giving this space a cultural identity. I like the architecture and how every room is close by but has a completely different purpose.

I love the layout and vibe of the place. From the cafe to the baths and sauna boxes being outside. Feels more natural and an actual place of community as opposed to a man-made structure simply meant for a business. It feels deeper and personal, and the staff are great. It being in east London is a bonus as it’s my favourite place.


I’m an active person and go the gym five days a week so doing this after a session aids recovery. I feel less stiff before the studio, rehearsals, meetings and shoots. People here share different ways they relax and recover, to aid people’s health and well-being. You get the feeling people here care for one another. A health-based collaboration based on openness, if you will. In the cold baths I’d say [stay for] two to three minutes. In the ice bath I’d say 45-90 seconds.

Seen a lot of my friends perform here who have gone on to do great things. It’s a bit rough around the edges but it’s part of its charm. Homegrown talent showing, nothing to hide behind here and it shows the true essence of musicians on this stage. The playlist in the pub is great too. It’s a place for local and emerging talent to gig, and for the community to have a place to chill and discuss that isn’t home or work.

You can find great vintage Levis, denim and the best jackets. I picked up a khaki bomber jacket and I had to stop myself from getting some cargos to match. [Atika is] vibrant, eclectic and friendly! You’re greeted on the way in and asked straight away if you need any help. Thrifting is a great activity to find pieces that have a story, a lot of them are rare and can’t be found anywhere so it’s discontinued or hard to find which makes your personal style even more unique.


Sustainable fashion is something that should be more prevalent. London is a busy city contributing to a lot of emissions. New clothes don’t always need to be made and places like this with high-quality vintage pieces is important.

4 Cultural Hotspots You Need to Visit in London with Kwaku Asante

Los Angeles 

Here there is a room with tiny clay balls that have a composition inside them that absorb heavy metals from your skin. You can osculate between elements. Try the ice room.

One of the only natural hot spring in Los Angeles the water feels like silk and comes out at 104 degrees.

The only time I visited it was filled with black rubber balls. Extreme visual experience which was once a holding tank for Los Angeles drinking water. 

This sensory deprivation tank provides a location where your body is lighter than the fluid holding it. 

LA’s Best Spas and Steam Rooms, Chosen by Hyd

Fa‘ Pawaka

Bali

Alchemy began as a vegan restaurant in Ubud. They have recently opened their yoga shala and have now expanded to Uluwatu. My faves from their kitchen are their wide selections of vegan chocolates. Do a class in their beautifully designed bamboo Shala, and nourish yourself after with some of the most delightful vegan offerings on the island.

The eyes feast on 50 shades of green as you walk down the stairs; The body relaxes with the scenery, The humbleness of this spring purifies the soul, even the water tastes delicious. Something about this place is indescribable and I always leave this sacred spot feeling extra charged.

Experience tea like never before on the island at this locally-owned establishment. I highly recommend trying the high tea set, where each tea is paired with delightful snacks and the welcoming host will make you want to come back soon.

A combination of light, sound, and vibration creates an immersive experience that will captivate your senses. The frequencies resonating through the waterbed will leave you in awe and sometimes an out-of-body experience. something unique that you’d only experience here at the Pyramids of Chi.

If you are looking for an authentic cultural experience, THIS IS IT. It's more than just trekking and regenerative farming; it's about connecting with the land, the people, and the island's way of life.

One-stop shop for all your surfing needs, complemented by delicious food and a great library. The warm embrace of the rammed earth walls will greet you as you step inside. Tipi Jabrik one of the founders, is an Indonesian surf legend and dedicated his life to pushing the local grom surfers towards an international playground.

Check in to Oneworld for a Panchakarma session. You can choose from 7, 14, or 21 days of retreat. Panchakarma is the oldest holistic healthcare system in India. This retreat is carefully designed for each individual. Whether you need relief from burnout, want to create new habits, or looking to boost your vitality, look no further.

Finding Balance: A Transformative Journey Through Bali with Fa‘ Pawaka

Ramesh

Ibiza

A new addition to the island in 2019 and the beginnings of pushing the boundaries from classic mediterranean cooking. Antía and Matias arrived from living in New York and brought younger vibes to a sleepy Santa E. Watch out for them hosting pop-up supper clubs at places like LOS ENAMORADOS or LA GRANJA. Remember to order their Kale Caesar Salad, your taste buds will not forget it.

Founders and wine creators, Cassidy and Bernat have set up their super natural wines shop in the quaint town of San Lorenzo next door to the church. San Lorenzo is such a quaint town (I don't even think there is a shop there), simply two banging restaurants, a school, a natural wine shop and a church.

Casa Lhasa’s foundations are: fresh food bought from the market daily, incredible anfitriones (hosts and hostess - in Spanish) and knowledge on natural wines.

NICK and FACU, these two movement coaches are special, their value of movement being medicine boils down to the stories that got them here... The way the light runs into this space is beautiful, it is a real pleasure to train in this room. If you are at all into practicing movement, it is worth a trip to the group class or a 1-2-1. Be prepared to jump around like a frog or a cat and be chased around with a stick. You get a sweat on, improve your core strength and can learn to stand upside down!

ps - they have freezers set up for wim hoff in the back :)

Have you ever wondered what a crossfit class would be like with a smiley crew of ex-ravers. Well you don’t have to wonder any more if you join Danny Plants Rewild tribe. Whether you are here on holiday for a drop in or want to be a monthly member this kettlebell and pull up crew will make you smile. A warm vibe and great crew to lifty with.

Think - if fabric had a crossfit team.

I’ve finally found a yoga studio where you can book online and in advance! Phew. The Studio is new to the island but Nadia (THEHEALTHJUNKIE) is not; she is a veteran of the club scene having been a dancer at Cocoon, Paradise and many other quality parties. Nadia found yoga and set up the studio in 2021. Situated in San Lorenzo and currently with one class every day, it is a boutique studio with a quality teacher, whether you want core strength, or yin, this space is quality.

Ramon and Inma are a couple that are in service of the bowls, they hold a special energy from the island and their bowls help to take you to other worlds. If you haven’t yet experienced sound healing, try it. If you are a regular receiver of the sound; you know that each healer has their sounds and their style. Sounds for life infuses emotive tracks with the bowls, gongs and the bells, played for you in their light and airy yoga room or they can be set up in the forest or at your house. Send them a DM on INSTAGRAM to book.

An absolute classic of the north for sunset, vibes and the bongos. Don’t be fooled into only heading down here on Sundays. It is well worth heading down any day of the week and more of less any time. Good vibes, great for swimming in the sea (I challenge you to swim to the rock shaped like a finger).

Toby Clarke has been on the island for ten plus years this time and has created something extremely special with his bandwagon of guides that show you many unexplored spots on the island. Whether you want to book in for a private walk or join their community wednesday 5km saunters. The vibe is lovely, they chat about the history of the island and it is easy to make friends with their crew. Look at their website to book.

A Cave up in the north of the island. If you fancy a history lesson on Ibiza, look up and read about the goddess of Tannit before you head to the cave. If you feeling it bring here a gift like a beautiful bunch of flowers you pick on the way there she will reward you with love.

An extremely cute and vibey hippie market with trinkets from the island, trippy bucket hats, hippie shirts and quality handmade merchandise. Look out for MEKE Coffee stall, for a reup as the market is on Sunday mornings you’ll probably want the coffee hit. Top tip for this market is to book a brunch or lunch table at the GIRI CAFE for after you have finished browsing the market - book 3-4 day in advance.

Explore North Ibiza with Ramesh

Sobhhï

Dubai

Dubai with Sobhhï

Manchester

Alkaline Way is a family run business that provides an array of plant based products at excellent prices. From soft body butter creams to Sea Moss, their website is the perfect shop for keeping your body healthy, inside and out.

Pull Up Bar is a late night, laid-back Jamaican joint serving up spicy and authentic food. Dining in here, you'll see the floor-to-ceiling murals and eat some of the best Jerk in town. There's also a Reggae Roast on Sundays (with a vegan option of roast pumpkin) and a yummy list of rum-laced cocktails that provide all the vibes.

Boogie Moli is an artist, who uses a mix of different mediums such as wheat paste, acrylics and spray paint, to create unique canvas’s you can purchase directly from his website.

Delicious bite-size cake pops and other mini sweet treats in and around the city.

A modern barber shop with a good mix of clientele and a barber with a knowledge of many cool and modern hairstyles including comb-overs, fades, hightop etc.

Serves contemporary Caribbean food and cocktails with travel-inspired flavours all the way to Manchester.

Owner, Javeno, runs this gym of the year with an aim for all community residents from young to old to have as many opportunities as possible to better their health.

A travel on request hair service that specialises in custom wig units, micro-rings, sew-ins, bundles, closures, as well as dyeing and styling. Hair can also be done for bridal events and other special occasions.

Prince Cofie Owusu, known as Shakka, launched Trap Kitchen in 2016 from his mum's flat on a housing estate in Camberwell. Now, it's so successful, it's branched all the way in the North. Expect a mouth-watering and eclectic menu with influences from soul food to Chinese to African-American cuisine.

A lash technician and beauty therapist specialising in all things fabulous lashes. Deposit required before booking.

Offers authentic Caribbean cuisine just for take away at the moment, on Deliveroo and JustEat, as well as delivery via phone number in their IG bio. All of their dishes are cooked using the freshest ingredients, and all meat dishes are certified Halal.

Fresh authentic Caribbean food that specialises in jerk chicken made with beautiful blends of Jamaica spices.

A Mancunian foodie at its finest who recreates street foods from across the world with bold flavours. A take-away service for those who want to eat good.

Delicious home-cooked meals delivered to your home by Chef Exose, a Masterchef The Professionals Finalist in 2019.

Manchester-based label flipping the script on the ethics of the fashion and textile industry, found in the Whitworth Art Gallery and established by textile designer, Ibukun Baldwin.

Black-Owned Businesses in Manchester

New York City 

Cafe con Libros (coffee with books) is an intersectional Feminist community bookstore and coffee shop. Through their choice of books, programming and great coffee, they endeavour to create a vibrant community space where everyone; specifically female-identified folx, feel centered, affirmed and celebrated.

LICHEN NYC is location in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It’s a design shop that’s helping to democratize design and proselytize more under-the-radar participants. Founded by Jared Blake and Ed Be the two have curated an exceptional archive of accessible vintage and contemporary furniture.

Brooklyn Blooms was planted in 2017 in the neighbourhood of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn with a mission to serve it’s neighbourhood and the surrounding communities with uniquely curated blooms while maintaining sustainable practices.

Harlem's 1st 100 percent African American owned craft beer bar. Their mission is to invest in their local community, to offer great beers "made by us and for us" and expand access and enjoy good times together, in their own way.

Brooklyn Clay Industries is a ceramics studio that holds pottery classes and workshops. The owner Reuben King, a native of Dominica, grew up with pottery-making as a time-honored tradition that he wishes to share and inspire creativity.

Byas & Leon is a heavy hitting local spot with distinct taste. They specialize in sustainable fashion & craftsmanship, while also serving as an Afro Caribbean cultural hub.

Founded by friends Shelby Macklin and Banna Nega in 2015, Glazed NYC is a community-based lifestyle brand focused on providing high quality, classic accessories that bridge the gap between function and glamour.

Designed in Brooklyn and handcrafted sustainably with artisans spanning Nairobi to NY, these shoes give anyone who wears them an extra spring in their step.

A little more mainstream but they're all about Black excellence.

Owned and run by Telsha Anderson, this beautiful store is completely designed to cater to the women-identifying community in NYC. It also has fabulous clothes.

Brooklyn's Best fried chicken! They are doing delivery or you can stroll down and pick up.

Bed Vyne is an independent brewery, cocktail bar and liquor store in Bed-Stuy, BV feels more like a family cookout than your standard bar.

A social and wellness club designed to celebrate people of colour, online and in real life. It's one of the first coworking and social spaces curated by young people of color for other young people of color.



Make Manifest is a retail and community space in the heart Bed-stuy Brooklyn. Designed to insure growth of local & independent businesses. The artistic platform strives for economic equity and an environmental consciousness.

A well stocked wine shop determined to give Brooklyn quality wine at a quality price.

Joloff Restaurant has become a local go to for Senegalese flavours made in Brooklyn.

Cafe Rue Dix explores West African and French heritage through its food, drinks and decor.

Haitian-American café and cocktail bar, CAFE ERZULIE, partnered with an existing flower shop so that both local businesses could flourish.

Ode to Babel is a small bar and lounge in Prospect Heights that has a become a true neighbourhood space.

Black-Owned Businesses in New York 

Lichen is located in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It’s a design shop that’s helping to democratise design and proselytise more under-the-radar participants. Founded by Jared Blake and Ed Be the two have curated an exceptional archive of accessible vintage and contemporary furniture.

Sitting at the crossroads of Chinatown and the Lower East Side, Chop Suey Club is a boutique store in downtown NYC focusing on contemporary Chinese design, arts and culture. They procure design products from young Chinese creatives around the world, showcasing seasonal rotations of items for diverse lifestyles. They believe the best way to dissipate xenophobia is to make your own culture more accessible to others. Chop Suey Club is an effort to open up contemporary Chinese culture to a larger audience.

Rooted is a modern-day plant company reconnecting you to nature, one houseplant at a time. Rooted was started because they firmly believe in the positive mental, emotional and physical health benefits associated with having greenery in your space.

.IMAGE is the first sneaker consignment shop to open in Queens, New York. Located in the heart of Queens, Main St Flushing, they carry many hard to find and limited sneakers you will not find anywhere else.

The space is a more than a restaurant, it’s a home away from home. With a growing number of Korean-Americans and Korean internationals working and studying in the city, Her Name Is Han wanted to create a place where these busy dwellers of New York can find the perfect home-cooked meal, prepared with the goal of bringing about the flavours of their mothers’ cooking.
Using only traditional Korean ingredients and recipes to produce what we like to call “Korean soul food”, their mission was not to replicate the fancy contemporary culinary experience, but to design a nostalgic one, where guests can enjoy an authentic Korean meal, all with the same feeling of comfort as eating at home.

Make sure to get your trim at 12 Pell, one of our favourite barbershops and community spaces in the city.

Mint By Mai is an amazing lash extension business run by lash artist and educator Tammy Mai. In addition to her lash services, Tammy offers educational 1:1 training to those who are looking to start their own businesses.

Jeepney is the best Filipino Food in NYC hands down. The restaurant, founded by Nicole Ponseca’s and Miguel Trinidad, has been at the fore-front of popularizing Filipino food in the city. It’s named after the "Jeepney", the WWII jeeps left behind by US occupation. Filipinos took the left-over jeeps chopped them up and tricked them out, creating a vibe, a mode of transport and a symbol that is uniquely Filipino. That is the essence of being of Jeepney and being Filipino – it's a vibe, a mode, and a symbol of uniqueness.

The original Lhasa in Jackson Heights is one of our favourite places in the city to eat momos. Each momo flavour is so delicious it’s understandably difficult to choose which flavour you want to commit to. So to make it easier for you, they do great combo selections, perfect for lunch of dinner.

Asian-Owned Businesses in NYC

Ferro and Reiss of VBX

Amsterdam

A very cool new event space founded by good friends. It feels somewhere between a club and warehouse and is showing amazing potential so far. What really sets Lofi apart from the pack is their cultural programming. Check out the experimental live performances at Basisklanken when you get the chance. We guarantee you won’t regret it.

Being behind the controls at Shelter always feels like taking a warm bath. This club has been essential to our artistic development over the years. This is a world-class venue, with a great sound system.

Like Shelter this venue played a big role in our artistic development over the years. These red containers have their own magical charm. You just can’t beat the feeling of sunlight coming through Bret’s windows, as the after hours are just getting started.

One of our favourite new after hours locations of the city. A former piracy radio broadcast location, now outfitted with a Function One sound system. Intimate wooden dance floor and balcony. In summer you can even catch some rays on the deck.

Our local go-to place to satisfy our gear addiction and engage into nerd talk about said gear with owner Tim. We try to avoid going there too much because of financial reasons, but it’s hard to resist to urge. The fact that it’s around the corner of our studio doesn’t help at all...

Seawolf records is Alfredo Romagnoli. He is a very knowledgeable guy and often attends our parties. This gives him a good idea of our taste, so his recommendations are usually on point. Whilst Seawolf used to be an 'appointment only, storage-locker digging', Alfredo is currently setting up his own record store. Doors open in April!

Located in a small alleyway on a stones throw distance from Amsterdam Central Station, this record store is a long term staple in the cities musical landscape. Open seven days a week and a great selection, featuring both second hand, as well as new gems. They even have a bin marked “VBX Sound” ;) Owners Dewey & Richard have an encyclopaedic knowledge about music and are always willing to lend a helping hand.

Best ramen place in town. One guy, he cooks... he cooks good, no alcohol, very Japanese. You can find us there, for sure, once a week.

Even though Ferro doesn’t like cheese, we still want to mention this place. They took a very Dutch product cheese and managed to turn eating it into a completely different experience. Definitely stop by this place for an authentic, but modernised Amsterdam experience.

A hidden gem in the Southern part of the city. Living room setting, vegetarian food that has the potential to convert even the most hardcore carnivores, amazing selection of wines and superb service. Be sure to make your reservations well in advance, because this place is always fully booked.

A really nice smart shop in the Red Light District. They know all about the stuff they sell. The place feels zen & grounded and even has a cactus garden.

Located on the Amsterdam canals, this spa is the perfect place to recover after a long weekend of partying.

Amsterdam with Ferro & Reiss of VBX

The category is…Black storytelling! Their focus is to make stories by African, Caribbean and Afro-Latinx fam available and readily accessible. You can currently find them at their bookstore pop up in Shoreditch Boxpark.

London’s first ever cactus and succulent shop. Offering a selection of the most unusual and exotic plants sourced from across the UK and Europe. Their online store is still available to shop on.

Eat of Eden serves up some of the best tasting specialist plant based cuisine in there many locations across London. We recommend the callaloo, ackee and macaroni pie.

Brixton Soup Kitchen are a Brixton-based service for the homeless and people in need. However, they help people who are from London and surrounding areas. Their charity provides hot food, support and counselling for people in need. They rely on donations and volunteers to continue their work, which you can easily donate to on their website.

2021 Andam prize winner and a distinctive new voice in the menswear arena, Bianca Saunders has been capturing the attention of the fashion world, alongside the likes of Kanye West and WizKid. The London designer's pieces counter the traditional notions of gender and masculinity and draws from touchstones on either side of her British and West Indian background. Her collection is available to purchase at Browns.

Black Cultural Archives is the home of Black British History. Their mission is to collect, preserve and celebrate the histories of people of African and Caribbean descent in the UK and to inspire and give strength to individuals, communities and society.

If you’re looking to cleanse your home and space, Cremate’s natural incense hand-dipped in London is the shit. They come in two scents: Mary Mother of God and Middle Way. We love both.

Homage Tees are responsible for those T-shirts emblazoned with the faces of British icons like Louis Theroux, Princess Di and David Attenborough.

South London rooted Jewellery and accessory brand Image Gang has garnered a global community of courageous and creative young women. You can purchase Image Gang on ASOS and directly via their website.

Who doesn't need fresh crepes? One of the many businesses created for our culture.

The world would not be the same without Carribean food. Riaz Phillips created Belly Full: Caribbean Food in the UK, to document a journey across the UK meeting the people behind the county's most popular Caribbean eateries. If you love your jerk and rice & peas, why not educate yourself on their history?

Whilst in quarantine, supply yourself with the more fresh and delicious fruit straight to your door weekly. They also give more variety than your basic Tesco selection.

The only paradox we want to be in. Delicious plant based recipes, plant based catering for dinner parties.

Exploring the space where football and the Black experience intersects.

Black Thrive is a partnership between communities, statutory organisations, voluntary and private sector. They work together to reduce the inequality and injustices experienced by Black people in mental health services. They address the barriers which lead to poorer outcomes across a range of social factors, such as education, employment, housing, and so on, all of which may negatively impact one’s health and wellbeing.

Born from a lack of ethnically diverse natural hair care in the luxury beauty industry. Nigerian-Italian Loretta De Feo devised Dizziak – a deep conditioning formula that provides course, textured hair with the rich hydration it needs and deserves. A revolution in multi-cultural hair care, Dizziak has been coined an aphrodisiac for Afro hair – delivering visible and touchable results in minutes.

Specialists in African and Caribbean Literature since 1966. For over 50 years New Beacon Books has made available to Britain and its communities poetry, literature, non –fiction, history and children’s books from Africa, Caribbean, Asia, African America, Europe, South America and Britain.

Welcome to the home of natural honey! Founded by local Walthamstow legend, you can subscribe to receive raw honey to your doorstep or even buy bees for yourself.

SEASON is a trailblazing football and fashion platform that launched in London in 2016 to counter the male, pale and sometimes stale state of modern football culture. They tell stories that showcase, celebrate and empower female fans authentically, while unpacking important issues, emphasising diversity and collaborating with exciting creative talent.

Founded by Karl Jouanni, Alive & More is a forward-thinking, and gravity-defying fashion brand. Living within the cosmos of his other venture, TEAM RELMS, ALIVE & MORE is a streetwear label that brings something new, fresh, and all-encompassing to the table. The concept is simple, get the RELMS app, play the game, and travel to the virtual fashion shrine to unlock your very real garments, and, while you’re at it, immerse yourself in the world of Team Relms as well.

Bleu is a creative interior design, mid-century furniture store based in Herne Hill, South London. They source our illustrious stock from around the world. Most of their products are mid-century modern, 20th century design, decorative art, vintage industrial furniture, vintage African masks and art. They also offer specialist upholstery and restoration too!

Trap House Salon is a safe, judgement free space to get your your hair, nails and lashes done at affordable prices. They give you that good good experience and you always leave looking fly.

Gingham doll is a small womenswear brand based in London who continuously excite the fashion palette, using classic silhouettes but with a fresher twist. They are still operating and offering Free post worldwide and have just been informed that our boutique in Shoreditch will reopen on the 20th June.

Pureté Nature is wellness brand for luxury skincare, haircare, aromatherapy and home fragrances. All of their products are ethically sourced and handcrafted by themselves using the finest natural ingredients.

The best radio station in the world. Need we say more? You can subscribe to NTS and become a member now.

Learn how to use your space with Storage Goals. They offer customised and stylish storage solutions that are tailored to your personality. Using Scandinavian designed products from Elfa, they cater for all your home and office storage needs.

In 2016, Dutch streetwear brand Patta, opened its London store doors in the middle of Soho. Ready to introduce London's community to everything it represents, Patta have continuously stayed a brand that influences culture in London and across the world.

The Prince of Peckham is a pub for south London, by south London. The community pub is for everyone in the area, with a downstairs bar and pub, and an amazing event space. On the top floor there is a music room for parties, weddings, meetings, location shoots, live music, art exhibitions, and all other celebrations. Street food kings White Men Can't Jerk are kitchen residents serving up jerk chicken, Caribbean roasts and stacks of wings. It's a vibe all year around.

Based in East London - Hackney. They specialise in running fitness classes, personal training, membership and hiring out our space to fitness professionals. Their goals are to create a safe space for groups and individuals to improve their lifestyles through health, fitness, sports and wellbeing.

Black-Owned Businesses in London

Swim Dem Crew

Brighton

We love taking trips to Brighton’s lesser-talked about beach in Saltdean as it’s got plenty of space and less crowding, it’s more local. It’s just a 10 minute bus journey or drive from Brighton centre. A huge bonus of this beach is that Saltdean Lido is less than 100 metres away, providing you with a beautiful art-deco backdrop to your swim and all the facilities that come with a swimming pool (changing rooms, toilets, café). Saltdean Beach is pebbled, like it’s cousin in Brighton, but don’t let that dampen your experience of the crashing waves and tame (by the UKs standards) sounds of seagulls. It’s a place where you can set up shop with your friends for the day in the summer and enter the water at your own pace. While the stones may make your walk to the water less graceful than you’d like, you’re still in control when compared to some other locations. The water will be refreshing and the seaview on a clear day is incredible. On your way back to Brighton, consider having a meal at Curry Leaf Cafe for a quick bite or Little Fish Market for fancy seafood.

Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: Lifeguard  

We visit Margate regularly as a crew when the sun decides to show its face for long enough. The town has been through a regeneration-turned-gentrification sparked by the Turner Contemporary being built and new money hipsters trying to replicate what they saw happening across under-funded boroughs in London on the seaside. That’s brought many challenges for Margate's locals who either can’t get on the property ladder or simply don’t want to, rent is increasing and new homes aren’t being built. It means that for visitors like us, we get to see different communities working and living side by side…for now. Margate has two popular tidal pools. The first is just a few minutes walk from the train station and very much a part of the seaside fun that takes place on hot days, the pool is enclosed so as the tide retreats in the afternoon, there is still plenty of water nearby to get a few laps in. We prefer Walpole Bay pool, which is either a half hour walk from Margate station or a five minute drive. This pool has an all important beach entry and small beach area so tends to be much less busy than Margate’s pool. Expect refreshing water, kids crabbing and seasoned swimming vets all sharing the same space. We challenge you to spend a day there to see the pool appear and disappear as the tide comes in and out, there’s something beautiful about that natural process. Margate has a great food scene with plenty of variety, head to Sargasso for refreshing small plates, Angela’s for the best seafood you’ll ever eat, or their sister restaurant Dory’s for a more casual vibe but similar quality. 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport:  Yes 

Facilities: No 

We first visited Frensham Ponds in Farnham in 2021 as a part of us trying to find exciting places outside of London to Swim in and the ponds delivered on that many times over. Of all the places to swim for us, this one is filled with a sense of adventure as it's located in a green with huge trees and rich wildlife. Bring a packed lunch for the day and find a spot along the sand to make your home for the day. Frensham has very calm waters as it’s a lake and two designated swimming areas with a gradual increase in depth as you go further out. We think this is the perfect place to practise floating as it’s such a low pressure place to swim, you’ll most likely be surrounded by families enjoying the weather and water and definitely will not see any elite athletes swimming through the lake. When floating, the key is to remain calm, regulate your breathing and stretch your body out. As you head back to Farnham station, be sure to check out the Plough, it’s a lovely pub with live music most days and is run by a Black musician who also keeps chickens in the garden for delicious eggs. 

Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport: No 

 Facilities: No 

Hampstead Heath is home to three swimming ponds, the Ladies, Mens and Mixed ponds are oases in hot summer days and fortresses of solitude in colder weather, with backdrops of comforting willow trees to sooth your inner self. We love to swim there knowing that you’re able to experience floating around on your back or swimming through slightly murky waters without having to leave the City, which is truly special. If Hampstead is too far north for you, consider coming with us down south to Beckenham Place Park for a dip. It’s one of the few ponds that has air filtration which helps to keep the water extra fresh too. You can even give paddle-boarding a try while there and head up to the grounds to see a movie at their outdoor cinema during the summer. 


Swim Level: Beginner 

Public Transport: Yes

 Facilities: Yes

Heated lidos are actually quite a luxury, while London holds a few of them, we won’t be focusing on them because we think there are so many benefits to having a relationship with cold water. The cold water brings a presence of thought and strengthens the connection between body and mind through the odd sensations you feel, it’s so hard to describe, that’s why you must try it for yourself! So don’t be afraid to go to south London's Brockwell Lido for a dip that will make you feel truly awake, followed by a munch at their amazing cafe. Or head to Tooting Bec Lido that will recreate swimming in the sea as the pool is nearly 100 metres long! Lastly, consider one of the most beautiful lidos in the UK, Parliament Hill Lido with it’s metallic basin (we thought this was done to heat the water up, but it was actually installed to reduce maintenance time as there are no tiles) which also boasts a cafe that has great falafel wraps and traditional breakfast scran. 

Swim Level: Beginner

Public Transport: Yes 

 Facilities: Yes 

Swim Dem Crew's Bodies of Water for Every Level

Here are Dutch, English and Spanish children's books, toys and maternity gifts for the little ones.

They then began to collaborate with the likes of ASICS, adidas, Converse, Nike, Reebok among other brands, after their increased online presence.

A delicious Surinamese BBQ dine-in and take-away restaurant.

The brand is fuelled by the rich heritage of African culture wrapped in contemporary designs.

A designer clothing label founded by Olaf who is continuously inspired by countries, cultures and citizens.

An independent publishing house with a flagship store and an award-winning webshop, dedicated to sharing the love for beautiful books.

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