Why Gloomy Weather Is the Secret to Falling in Love with Edinburgh

Every time we travel, we always wish for sunny skies. I get it. Nobody wants rain to ruin their plans.

But when we went to Edinburgh for 3 nights — I did the opposite.

Why Gloomy Weather Is the Secret to Falling in Love with Edinburgh

I prayed for it to be gloomy. Wet. Misty. Even a little spooky. Edinburgh is a city that wears its history like a cloak — one woven with ghost stories, witch trials, and magic. A bright, sunny day strips away the eerie charm that makes this place so special. Mist, however, wraps the city in something spellbinding.

1. Mist Unlocks the City’s Dark Past

Edinburgh is widely regarded as one of the most haunted cities in the world.  — from underground vaults to the old kirkyards. The mist in the air feels like a living remnant of its chilling history. Without it, the city feels too modern, too exposed. With it? You’re walking through a Gothic novel.

2. Hello Dementors? Harry Potter Fans Will Understand

It’s the closest I’ve ever felt to being in a Harry Potter scene. The fog over the castle, the chill in the wind — it’s like Azkaban is nearby and the Dementors are flying above the rooftops. If you’re a Potterhead like me, you’ll love this.

3. Gloom is Edinburgh’s Natural Filter

Let’s be honest — the city looks better in grey. The stone buildings, dramatic skyline, and towering castle feel more cinematic when the weather leans moody. It’s aesthetic perfection.

And if you want the full gothic vibe? Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard — Edinburgh’s most famous cemetery — when the sky is heavy and the rain just lightly taps your umbrella. The headstones, some worn down by time, almost speak louder when the air is still and cold. The mist between the trees makes the stories of ghosts and poltergeists feel just a little too real.

You won’t get that magic on a hot, sunny afternoon.

So if you’re visiting Edinburgh and the sky turns dark, or it starts to drizzle — don’t be disappointed.

That’s exactly the weather you should hope for.

It’s not a flaw — it’s part of the experience.

And if you’re into the full vibe, I really recommend joining one of the ghost, witch, or Harry Potter walking tours. They’re even better when the city is wrapped in fog.

Have you ever fallen in love with a gloomy destination? Would you pray for rain like I did in Edinburgh?

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The Real Hogwarts Express: Jacobite Steam Train Review – Magical or Overhyped?

ABBEY: Our adventure began bright and early at 7 AM, as we joined the much-anticipated Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour. The crisp morning air greeted us as we made our way to the meeting point at St. Andrew Square in Edinburgh. Shortly after our tickets were checked, our cozy tour bus pulled in—and just like that, the journey began.

From the start, our tour guides made the trip unforgettable. Far from being dull, they filled our ride with interesting facts, local legends, and witty stories that kept everyone laughing, clapping, and thoroughly entertained.

Our first stop was a charming little town, the perfect place to warm up with a hot cup of coffee. While some of us grabbed caffeine, others took the chance to enjoy a quick breakfast bite. Then, we had a brief but breathtaking stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct—the iconic bridge made famous by the Harry Potter films. Standing there, watching the sweeping curves of the viaduct against the rugged Highland backdrop, felt like stepping into the wizarding world.

As we continued our journey, the Scottish landscape unfolded around us in all its glory—majestic mountains, serene lochs, and cinematic vistas. One of the highlights was catching a glimpse of the film location used as Dumbledore’s grave, nestled quietly in the distance.

By lunchtime, we arrived at the coastal town of Mallaig. We tucked into a hearty serving of traditional fish and chips at Jaffy’s and enjoyed another brew at The Tea Garden Café. The seaside views and fresh Highland air made it a perfect midday break.

Then came the moment we were all waiting for—boarding the Jacobite Steam Train, famously known as the Hogwarts Express. As the steam curled into the sky and the whistle blew, it felt like we were truly heading to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Although we didn’t get window seats, the magical atmosphere more than made up for it.

Our cheerful and enthusiastic train conductor made the ride even more enjoyable, sharing stories and pointing out sights like Neptune’s Staircase, a remarkable series of canal locks near Fort William, where our steam train journey ended.

Back on the bus with our Highland guides, we had one more surprise waiting—meeting the adorable Highland Cattle, often affectionately called “emo cows” for their shaggy hair. We even got to feed them before making our way back to Edinburgh.

The Real Hogwarts Express: Jacobite Steam Train Review – Magical or Overhyped?

WILL: If you’re a true Harry Potter fan, the Jacobite Steam Train ride is likely on your UK bucket list. Even for non-fans, this is the exact steam train featured in the first Harry Potter movie — and that alone makes it worth looking into.

So how can you ride the real Hogwarts Express?
Option 1: Do-It-Yourself (DIY Route)
You can travel independently to Fort William or Mallaig, which are the departure and arrival points for the Jacobite Train.

However, there are some drawbacks:
•The journey from London takes about 9 hours by train
•Limited accommodation options in both towns
•The towns themselves are quiet, and not ideal for extended stays
This option can be complicated and requires a lot of planning.

Option 2: Join a Guided Tour from Edinburgh
We chose the Highland Tours experience via GetYourGuide, and it turned out to be the smarter option.

Compared to booking directly, this tour saved us over SGD100 and included convenient transportation from Edinburgh, scenic stops, and entertaining guides.

From the start, guides/bus drivers — Rich and Mat — were both informative and engaging. They kept the mood light and fun throughout the long day trip. It felt like a field trip, complete with stories, music, and a few Harry Potter trivia moments.

Please note:
•The Jacobite Steam Train does not run year-round. It closes during winter and usually resumes service around April.
•We paid SGD641 for two people, not including meals.
•Bus do not have built-in toilet so plan your drinks.

Is It Worth the Price?
➡️Yes, if:
•You’re a Harry Potter fan looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience
•You enjoy scenic rides through the Highlands
•You want to be surrounded by fellow Potter fans and share the excitement

➡️Maybe not, if:
•You expect a luxurious experience or dramatic reenactments
•You’re not familiar with the Harry Potter series and may not connect with the nostalgia

Alternative Option
If the full experience is out of your budget, GetYourGuide also offers tours that stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the iconic bridge featured in the films. You won’t ride the train, but you’ll still capture that postcard-perfect moment.

If you’re still undecided, think of it this way: if you grew up watching Harry Potter, this isn’t just a ride — it’s a small piece of your childhood coming to life.

***

From Edinburgh: Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour

(W) https://gyg.me/38Pye1nz

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Saved $5,015 on Flights: Our Real Credit Card Miles Strategy

Let’s be honest—airfare is usually the most expensive part of any trip. That’s why we always plan ahead. Instead of paying full price for flight tickets, we use credit card air miles to save money and fly smarter.

This year, we focused on two popular miles-earning credit cards in Singapore:
➡️DBS Vantage
➡️UOB Visa Infinite

They’re both premium, metal cards with generous air miles rewards—but they do have spending requirements. Each one needs you to spend SGD 4,000 within the first 30 days of approval.

Sounds like a lot? Don’t worry—we didn’t spend more than we normally would. We just timed our applications with big planned expenses. That included:
-✈️ Booking a cruise
-🛫 Paying for our 2024 travels
-🏠 Charging one month’s worth of household bills
By doing this, we easily hit the spending targets on both cards without spending extra.

Best credit cards in Singapore for earning air miles 2025

Perks Breakdown:
DBS Vantage gives -annual fee of SGD 599.50:
 •10 free airport lounge visits per year
 •Accor Plus Membership that gave us free stay at Swissôtel Singapore
 •total of free 110,000 miles
UOB Visa Infinite offers -annual fee of SGD 654:
 •Unlimited lounge access (great if you travel often!)
 •total miles free 90,000. 

With just SGD 650 more, we booked with Singapore Airline:
->> 2 Premium Economy to London
<<- 2 Economy back to Singapore

We saved a total of SGD 5,015.59 on airfare. That’s money we can use on food and activities. 

Is it worth it? Absolutely. With smart spending, we turned our everyday and planned expenses into flights. No crazy spending. No stress.
If you’re in Singapore and want to travel more while spending less, air miles credit cards are worth looking into. 

Just remember:
-- Understand the terms
-- Time your big expenses
-- Take full advantage of the perks

Your next trip might be closer (and cheaper) than you think! 

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

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KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

Natural History, British, or Maritime? Choosing the Best Free Museum in London!

ABBEY: During our recent trip to the UK, we had the opportunity to visit three incredible museums—all absolutely free to enter! These museums were the Natural History Museum, the British Museum, and the National Maritime Museum. While admission is free, it’s important to note that advance booking is required for both the Natural History Museum and the British Museum due to high visitor demand.

Each museum offers a unique experience that caters to a wide range of interests.

Natural History Museum – A Fascinating Journey Through the Natural World
This museum was a personal favorite. The exhibits featuring animals from all over the world were both captivating and educational. Some of the displays made me wonder if the animals would make good pets (though most, of course, are best admired from a safe distance!). Others were simply awe-inspiring—reminding us just how small we are in comparison to the giants of nature.

British Museum – A Treasure Trove of Human History
At the British Museum, you’ll find an extraordinary collection of artifacts that tell the story of human civilization. From ancient jewelry, pottery, and artwork to iconic pieces like the Rosetta Stone, this museum showcases the rich tapestry of global history. It’s a perfect stop for anyone who wants to see how different cultures and civilizations are connected through time.

National Maritime Museum – A Deep Dive Into Maritime History
The National Maritime Museum highlights the UK’s deep connection to sea exploration and trade. The exhibit begins with stunning photographs of stars, constellations, and galaxies—used historically for navigation. These award-winning images are not only beautiful but also remind us how far navigation has come. You’ll also see historic instruments and maritime artifacts that shed light on seafaring life through the ages.
If you’re curious about the culture and history of a place, museums are an excellent starting point. They offer a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage, achievements, and way of life—all while being fun and often free to explore.

Kindly donate to help them continue this endeavor. 

Natural History, British, or Maritime? Choosing the Best Free Museum in London!

WILL: Natural History Museum vs British Museum vs National Maritime Museum. Which one deserves a few hours of your London itinerary?

Yes, there are different kinds of tourists. And Abbey and I? We’re the kind who always make time for museums. I’m not exactly sure why, but there’s this deeply fulfilling feeling we get whenever we step into one. It’s like, in some small way, we get to understand a slice of a country’s history and culture.

Now, if there’s one place in the world that knows how to do museums right, it’s London. Not only does it showcase its own rich heritage, but it also houses pieces from countries under the Commonwealth realm—offering a global perspective in just one city.
But let’s be real—not everyone has the time or the energy to explore all the free museums in London. If you’re short on time or unsure where to go, this blog is your quick guide. 😉

⸻
Natural History Museum
According to Google AI: “A Natural History Museum focuses on the natural world—plants, animals, rocks, minerals, and fossils. These museums are known for their vast specimen collections, research, and educational exhibits. They help us understand Earth’s history and the diversity of life.”

So nope, don’t expect ancient civilization artifacts here. Think fossils, geology, and a deep dive into natural science.
If you’re fascinated by dinosaurs, evolution, and real-life fossils, this place will blow your mind. The collection is massive and engaging, especially for kids. We initially planned for a 2-hour visit—but trust me, that wasn’t enough!

Allocate at least half a day here if you’re visiting with children. The dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits are guaranteed hits.

⸻
British Museum
The British Museum is the world’s first national public museum. As you may know, Britain once ruled a vast empire—and many artifacts from across the world (like the Parthenon Marbles from Greece and ancient Egyptian relics) now reside here.

Our experience? We dedicated two hours to explore, but honestly, only had time for the top “must-see” exhibits. What I personally loved? Their timepiece collection and the highlight of the museum—the Egyptian Sculpture Gallery. It’s like having a little piece of Egypt right in London.
⸻
National Maritime Museum
Wait, why visit this one?
If you’re asking, “Why the Maritime Museum?” — hear me out. This was actually my favorite among the three.
-- Less crowded
-- Less noisy
-- More immersive (especially for adults who love stories of trade, travel, and conquest)

Located in Greenwich, this museum offers a breath of fresh air away from the more touristy spots of Central London. It dives deep into how Britain dominated global trade by sea, and how maritime power shaped the world’s history and economy.
Oh, and if you’ve got kids? There’s an entire play area just for them—so everyone’s happy!

So, which one should you choose?
> Into science, fossils, and Earth’s past? Go for the Natural History Museum.
> Love global history and ancient artifacts? Head to the British Museum.
> Want a quieter, thought-provoking escape with bonus kid-friendly space? Don’t miss the National Maritime Museum.

Or if you’re like us—just visit all three! 😄
Enjoy exploring London and let me know which museum you loved the most!

London in Real Time 🇬🇧 | Tower Bridge, Museums, High Tea & Harry Potter (Day 2–3 Slow Travel Vlog)

Slow Travel UK | Unfiltered Greenwich to Edinburgh Journey 🇬🇧 | Day 4-5 London Vlog

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🇬🇧What to Expect in London: A Honest Comparison to Singapore

As someone who resides in Singapore, arriving in London as a tourist brought a few surprises. While both cities are world-famous travel hubs, they offer very different experiences—especially when it comes to comfort, convenience, and everyday expectations. If you’re planning to visit London and have already explored Singapore, here’s what you shouldn’t expect in London, plus a few things you’ll surprisingly love. 

1. Safety in London vs Singapore
Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world—you can leave your bag on a table at a food court and it’ll still be there when you return. London? Not quite the same.
During our visit, we witnessed a pickpocket incident on the Elizabeth Line on our very first day In London, you can’t leave your belongings unattended, even for a short moment. Always keep your bags close, zipped up, and in sight.

2. Train System: The London Tube vs Singapore MRT
If you’re used to Singapore’s MRT, the London Underground might come as a shock.
• Trains are older and less clean.
• Not all stations have lifts or escalators.
• Walkalators? None in sight for long-distance transfers.
• Some interchanges require exiting the station and walking outdoors to another entrance.
It works, but it’s not the most tourist-friendly experience.

3. Toilet Availability in London
One thing I missed the most in London? Public toilets. In Singapore, clean restrooms are everywhere—in malls, MRT stations, parks. In London, toilets are hard to find and often require payment. Your best bet: cafés and restaurants. 

4. Local Culture and Approachability
In Singapore, you can ask strangers for directions, and most will help you. In London, the vibe is different. Locals are a bit more reserved, and some may avoid interaction altogether—possibly out of habit or safety concerns. It’s not rude; it’s just maybe their culture.

🇬🇧What to Expect in London: A Honest Comparison to Singapore

What You’ll Love and Miss About London

Despite the differences, London has undeniable charm and culture that sets it apart from any other city.

1. The Weather
If you’ve had enough of Singapore’s year-round humidity, London’s crisp, cool climate will be a breath of fresh air—literally.

2. History and Knowledge
The museums, castles, churches, and the grandeur of the West End… it’s like stepping inside a history book. And many museums? They’re free.

3. British Food Classics
Don’t underestimate the comfort of a good Sunday Roast or Bangers and Mash. London’s food scene is diverse too. But yeah a too much pricey than SG. 

Singapore and London couldn’t be more different—but that’s what makes travel exciting. While you might miss Singapore’s efficiency and safety, London offers a rich history, culture, and stories that are truly unforgettable.

Just pack your patience, keep your belongings close, and dive into the adventure.

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Accommodation Excellence

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UK Visa Application: Hardest Parts, Biggest Mistakes & Sponsored Tourist Visa

ABBEY: The United Kingdom is officially on our travel list for 2025, and that means one thing: applying for a visa. If you’re planning the same, here’s a friendly guide based on our experience using the VFS Global application process.

First, make sure you have digital copies of all the necessary documents ready. These include:

• Travel documents (like your passport)

• Bank statements

• Certificates of employment

• Work permits

• Marriage certificate (if applicable)

Having these on hand will save you time and hassle during the process.

The online form on the VFS Global website is straightforward, but remember to double-check all the details you input. If you’re not able to complete it in one go, you can save your progress and return later.

The most time-consuming part for us was listing all the countries we’ve visited over the past 10 years. This required going through our passport stamps and matching arrival and departure dates.

Fact: not all countries provide stamps due to automated immigration systems, but you’ll still need to include them.

After reconciling our travel history, we uploaded the required documents. If a document doesn’t fit into a specific upload category, there’s an “Others” section where you can include it.

The visa application fee was SGD 206 per person, and each application must be completed individually. If you’re traveling with your spouse, you’ll need to apply separately.

Once the application is submitted, you’ll need to schedule a biometrics appointment. No need to bring a photo – they’ll handle that during your appointment.

One great feature is that you can continue uploading documents even after submitting your application, right up until your biometrics appointment.

VFS Global offers a range of optional services for an additional fee, such as:

• Document scanning and uploading

• Passport delivery

• Application status notifications

These can be helpful if you want added convenience during the process.

After completing our biometrics, we received our visas in about two weeks. The process was smoother than expected, and now we’re all set for our UK adventure!

UK Visa Application Hardest Parts, Biggest Mistakes & Sponsored Tourist Visa - Sponsor

UK Visa Application Hardest Parts, Biggest Mistakes & Sponsored Tourist Visa - Sponsored Visa

WILL: For wives who are financially dependent on their husbands (like me!), I got you covered on how to apply for a UK Visitor Visa or Tourist Visa with a spouse as your sponsor.

Of course, this guide isn’t just for wives—if you have anyone sponsoring your trip, keep reading and so let me walk you through it—no stress, no confusion, just straight-up useful tips!

A sponsor is someone who covers your trip expenses, including: 

- Flights
- Accommodation

- Daily expenses while in the UK

If your husband is sponsoring you, he must prove he can financially support your trip.

Here’s something that caught us off guard: unlike other visa applications, the UK requires a 10-year international travel history! This wasn’t a simple task—we had to backtrack all our past trips, dig through old passport stamps, and make sure the information was accurate.

The application also asked how many times I had visited certain countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA, Switzerland, and the Schengen Zone. We’re guessing these places hold more weight in visa approvals, so if you’ve been to any of them, make sure you declare it correctly!

Unlike some other visa applications, we wasn’t required to submit a detailed itinerary for our stay in the UK. However, I still had to clearly state when I was arriving, how long I’d be staying, and where I’d be living during my trip. Whether you’re staying in a hotel make sure these details are consistent throughout your application.

Required Documents for a UK Visa Application (Spouse-Sponsored)

✅ The passport or travel document from Philippines – Passport
✅ Evidence of support and the sponsor will not breach any UK Immigration— This is Sponsor Letter (see below photo for sample) 

✅ Evidence of funds available and accessible by me - This is my Proof of Income and provided my 3-month bank statement.
✅ Evidence of the relationship with my sponsor - Our Marriage Certificate 

✅ Evidence of your right of residence (if you are not a citizen of the country from which you are making your application) - This is Singapore’s Foreign Identity Card or Singpass 

Your sponsor (your husband) must submit essential financial documents, including his employment certificate, bank statement, and a well-written sponsorship letter explaining his role in covering your expenses.

Why Some Applications Get Rejected

Even with a complete set of documents, there are still reasons why a UK visa might be refused. Based on what I’ve read in UK visa discussion groups, here are the most common red flags:

1. Insufficient Funds – If your husband’s financial documents don’t show stability, the immigration officer might question whether he can truly afford to sponsor you.
2. Weak Ties to Your Home Country – If you don’t provide strong reasons to return home (like a job, kids, or responsibilities), they might suspect you’ll overstay.
3. Inconsistent Information – If any detail in your documents contradicts another, it raises suspicion.
4. Poor Travel History – If you’ve never traveled before or have a history of overstaying in other countries, it could work against you.
5. Fake or Incomplete Documents – Always, always be honest. Any misleading information can get you banned from applying again in the future.

Applying for a UK Visitor Visa when your husband is sponsoring you may seem intimidating, but with the right documents, your chances of approval are high.

My advice? Be transparent, double-check all your documents, and show that you have every reason to return home after your trip. And most importantly—don’t stress! The process may take time, but once you get that approval, it’ll all be worth it.

Good luck, and I hope you get to enjoy your UK adventure soon! 🇬🇧 For the latest official visa requirements, visit UK Government Visa Application Portal.

***

Switzerland Visa Application Center - Singapore 

(W) https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/tourist-short-stay-visas

(H) 9:00am to 1:30pm 

(A) 135 Cecil Street 08-01 Philippine Airlines Building, 069536 

(T) +6531051693

Sponsorship Letter for UK Visa Application

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Accommodation Excellence

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KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

Bonus Tip: Zalora for OOTD Goals!

Oh, and speaking of dreams, let's talk OOTD (Outfit of the Day) goals. Head over to Zalora for some jaw-dropping fashion finds. Click [here] to explore and snag those Instagram-worthy outfits for your trip. A fashionable adventure awaits!