This Week in the World: Week 37
Hjem is my favorite local neighborhood coffee shop (and where I go for my flat white a few times every week!) The dress I’m wearing is HERE.
Hello from a very somber London. Queen Elizabeth II passed on Thursday and even though we knew this day would eventually come, it’s still shocked the nation and greater world. Growing up in the US, I was always aware of the Royal Family, but I categorized them the same way I did any other cultural “celebrity. It’s only since living in the UK that I’ve really grown to understand (and properly appreciate) the Royals— more importantly, the Queen. First, it’s not lost on me that British colonialism has a very dark history. Though modern times have steered away from forced control and more towards public service, this institution is still dripping with imperfections and shortcomings. Nevertheless, I’ve witnessed the Queen (and the greater Royal Family) serve as steady, non-political figures that the public (most people, anyway) can unite over. The more I’ve listened and learned about them, the greater the respect I’ve gained for them. And while these important conversations about the problematic implications of colonialism (and it’s aftermath) should continue to take place, I think we can still mourn the loss of Queen Elizabeth and her tremendous life + leadership. I have a lot to share about it this week (along with other subjects) and am hoping to go pay respects to her once she’s moved to Westminster before I head to Italy later this week.
If you’re new here, ‘This Week in the World’ is a recap of content ranging from around the globe from the last week. My hope is that no matter where you are in the world, you’ll be able to feel more connected to it: through news, travel, food & wine… really, anything that appeals to the culturally curious. Let’s dive into the content I sourced for week 37.
AROUND THE WORLD
I love the way this podcast episode on “How Queen Elizabeth II Preserved the Monarchy” shows the way the Queen redirected the role of the Royal Family toward service, and how she had the ability to adapt with the (turbulent) times throughout her reign.
I loved Elizabeth Holme’s article on how “We Will Never See Another Queen of England On Thursday, the monarchy lost more than its ruler — it lost its most compelling case for its own existence.”
I loved this moving story of the Queen’s connection to Balmoral- how special she passed at the place she loved so much!
TRAVEL NEWS + INSPIRATION
I stayed at this gorgeous Amalfi Coast hotel back in April and am dying to go back- it’s one of my favorites I’ve ever experienced! (It’s also the sister property of where our Atlas Adventures Ischia trip is happening later this month!) Book with me and you can get perks + upgrades at no cost to you.
DOT Sec. Pete Buttigieg Says Air Travel Is 'Going to Get Better by the Holidays'— we’re counting on you, Pete!
I loved this story of how someone quit their full time job to move to Italy and work at a vineyard!
The holiday homes of European royalty: from French châteaux to Norwegian farms.
WEEKLY FAVORITES
I absolutely adored THIS PODCAST EPISODE with Pantsuit Politics (two of my favorite gals!) and Rick Steve’s on his new book: Travel as a Political Act. So many great conversations happened in this episode- can’t recommend it enough!
I also loved watching The Last Tourist on my flight back to London. It raised so many important concerns we all need to be mindful of as travelers, but it was also lined with hope— please give it a watch!
I’m so excited about my side table refresh! friend Sarah helped us create a custom table skirt to cover the table in our living room that didn’t quite match our style. A bit of fabric went such a long way and I love how it turned out! It reminded me we don’t always need to buy new things- often there is a more sustainable solution.
On the subject of new things, I’m obviously a human being and still buy new things too! I try to be strategic and focus on high quality items that I’ll have for a long time. On my recent trip home to the US I placed a few orders to bring home to London with me- here’s what I got:
We wanted bedding that made us feel like we were at a hotel, so I went with THIS DUVET and THESE SHEETS (which I can confirm, feel like you’re at a 5-star hotel!)
This turtleneck feels SO luxe and will be a great layering piece for autumn and winter (reminds me of Diane Keaton!)
These timeless ballet flats can be worn year round are great quality.
I have one nap dress that I wore an embarassing number of times this summer (it’s the perfect thing to throw on when you want to feel like you’re in pajamas, but also feel like you’re dressed for the day). I decided to order a couple more since they get so much wear: I did the all black one and THIS GREEN GINGHAM one
UPCOMING TRAVELS
The rest of the year is going to be very busy for travel, so I’m listing out everywhere I’m going (in case it helps to follow along for any places you may also be traveling in the near future!)
SEPTEMBER: Lake Como, Venice, Ischia, Capri + Procida
OCTOBER: Lisbon (and sharing my time at home in London)
NOVEMBER: Singapore + New Zealand (all over the north and south island- we’ll be there for a month!)
DECEMBER: Singapore, sharing my time at home in London (and heading back to the US for Christmas!)
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That’s all for today. Happy reading and thanks for being here!
xx
Whitney
This Week in the World: Week 32
Hello again! My travel schedule is about to pick up again for the rest of the year, so I’ve been soaking up all that I can of British summertime while I’m still here for it. Also while I’m home, I wanted to make time for This Week in the World while I still am able (plus, we have a very exciting announcement this week that was shared with newsletter subscribers!)
If you’re new here, ‘This Week in the World’ is a recap of content ranging from around the globe from the last week. My hope is that no matter where you are in the world, you’ll be able to feel more connected to it: through news, travel, food & wine… really, anything that appeals to the culturally curious. Let’s dive into the content I sourced for week 30.
TRAVEL NEWS + UPDATES
Have you ever booked a flight only for the price to then drop? Here’s how to rebook your flight after the price changes.
How did air travel get so bad? I am flying to the states at the end of the month and decided to only bring a carry on bag going over (but am packing this collapsible duffle bag so I can check it coming home - need plenty of space to bring back treats I can’t get in London!) I purchased these when I moved to London and they’re great for having the option to check another bag without committing to another suitcase (and take up way less storage at home too!)
I loved Samantha Brown’s take on why you should always travel with duct tape.
WEEKLY FAVORITES
We had a pavlova to finish our Sunday lunch at my boyfriend’s family home down in Devon last week. Ever since, I’ve been wanting to have a go at making one myself. This basil pavlova recipe grabbed my attention and is on my list to make before the summer ends!
I thought my Rimowa luggage was fancy, but WOW: Princess Diana’s favorite luggage designer has made a comeback and I’m lusting over it!
I’ve already started styling these suede heels into my pre-fall repertoire. They’re so timeless and chic and comfortable (once you break them in). You can use the code SARAHFLINT-BAATLAS to receive $50 off your first order too!
I’ve loved working to this classical playlist lately.
AROUND THE WORLD
I loved seeing all the beautiful designs of these hotel lobbies from around the world.
Speaking of hotel design, I especially loved these award-winning hotel designs (these English-inspired interiors have become my personal preference in terms of decor style).
This US climate bill could reduce carbon emissions by 40% - I’m so hopeful that Democrats can pass it!
As Europeans head off on holiday for the month of August, lots of local businesses close up for the month (I shared an example on my Insta-stories yesterday, as my local florist is away until September). I giggled at this article about how Parisians in August might have to walk up to 20 minutes for their baguette because of this. Quelle horreur!
I was not prepared for this emotional story broken into a series of 13 instagram posts. Tears!
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That’s all for today. Happy reading and thanks for being here!
xx
Whitney
This Week in the World: Week 30
I’m so happy to be back this week! Summer is an unconventional time for all of us as our routines face constant interruptions. I hope yours has been filled with some travel, sunshine, reading by the pool or beach, trying new recipes with fresh ingredients from the farmer’s market, and plenty of life’s ordinary moments that bring you joy.
If you’re new here, ‘This Week in the World’ is a recap of content ranging from around the globe from the last week. My hope is that no matter where you are in the world, you’ll be able to feel more connected to it: through news, travel, food & wine… really, anything that appeals to the culturally curious. Let’s dive into the content I sourced for week 30.
TRAVEL NEWS + UPDATES
Travel is chaos at the moment. Here’s how early should you get to the airport.
The world’s most powerful passports have been revealed (and over 16 countries are above the US on the list).
Planning travel for the autumn? Here are some of the best places to travel in October!
I got to visit with two of my friends from back in Nashville who brought their newborn on their latest trip to Europe. They recommended this backpack that converts into a bassinet for any of you traveling with a baby.
WEEKLY FAVORITES:
I love Slim Aarons photography and recently ordered this coffee table book that showcases photos he took over the years in Italy. If you appreciate both art and travel, I highly recommend!
For my wine lovers: I ordered this Coravin wine preservation system that allows you to pull out small portions at a time from the bottle while keeping the cork in tact. I have so many splurge bottles of wine that I want to save and drink over time, so I love that this system allows me to do that!
This peach frosé was the silver lining of the oppressive heat we had here in London last week- it’s so tasty!
My boyfriend learned how to make the Dishoom’s Chilli Broccoli Salad. He uses Red Wine Vinegar instead or Rice Vinegar. He also only uses a small drizzle of olive oil, but uses juice from an extra lime instead. He also uses much more mint/coriander. I prefer his version!
Calling all coastal grandmothers: I loved this piece on “Why we are looking to our grandmothers for decorating inspiration— and why you should too.”
My boyfriend and I are driving to Devon next weekend to visit his parents and I already have this podcast episode queued up for the drive— I love all of these women and can’t wait to hear their conversation!
I’ll do a proper review on these soon, but wanted to share some books I’ve loved reading this summer:
AROUND THE WORLD
My climate anxiety has peaked lately. I cannot understand how people aren’t more concerned? I found this article on how to talk to someone who denies climate change to be helpful.
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That’s all for today. Happy reading and thanks for being here!
xx
Whitney