On Saturday 21st January I boarded a train to head down to London again. I had another visit planned to Hula Nails to have my hair vintage styled with the lovely Lucie Luella.

Deciding to wear my Pin Up Girl Clothing Pele dress, with a vintage patent handbag and a large lily hair accessory, I was all ready to hit the City.

As I had quite a few hours to kill, I got in touch with a friend whose acquaintance I had made recently.

The wonderful Dr Rhinaixa Duque-Thüs was a lady I met at the Christmas Tiki Party which had been held at the Kanaloa Club at the end of last year.

She truly is the most amazing and inspirational woman I have ever personally met, and I knew I wanted to spend more time getting to know her.

We agreed to meet up for “something” in the afternoon. Now, with Rhina that could be afternoon tea, Vietnamese food or even lots of cocktails. So I just followed her lead!

The amazing Rhina

Finally arriving at Old Street Station we headed towards Hula Nails which also has a parade of shops and cafes. Rhina recommended one, which apparently did the most amazing omelettes. Well, it would be silly not to try the establishment, wouldn’t it?

We went into The Market Restaurant and I was at a loss of what to choose. Rhina went for one of the giant omelettes, whilst I eventually opted for a cooked breakfast. Which I have to say was out of this world!

After eating we wandered along to Hula to book in for my appointment. Lucie Luella was working on another ladies hair so we settled in to wait, I was a little early after all.

We were graciously offered a glass of honey and ginger tea, which was delicious and we sat chatting.

Honey and Ginger Tea while we wait

Talking to Rhina and learning more about her and her life was simply fascinating. I could have listened to her all day. She really is a font of knowledge, yet lights up a room with her enthusiasm and verve for life. I was transfixed!

When it was my turn, Lucie Luella started by putting the dye on my roots. After a period of time the mixture was put over the lengths of my hair. Now to wait for it to take.

Going back to my roots…

After it was washed off, Lucie Luella dried and styled it in a vintage poodle up-do before adding my large pink stargazer lily.

The finished look

The lovely ladies at Hula had recommended that we visit Fontaine’s a 1920’s style cocktail bar in nearby Dalston. Apparently we could hop on the number 243 bus which would deposit us directly outside the bar in around 20 minutes.

The 243 Bus Selfie

Well, it would be rude not to give it a go!

We arrived outside Fontaine’s and entered through a plain black front door. Inside it was like a 1920’s paradise!

Large gilt palm trees, Art Deco cabinets, low level seating all around a massive built in bar with every drink imaginable. Crystal champagne coupes, hi-ball glasses and china tea-cups all to serve cocktails in. Just perfect.

Fabulous Fontaines

We decided to order a cocktail each, for Rhina the Royal Hawaiian, and a buttered Rum for myself.

Royal Hawaiian

A stunning lady (who we later found out was the stunning Ruby) proceeded to complete our order. We sat reclining on the individual armchairs, chatting about anything and everything.

Remarkable Ruby!

Unfortunately there was a private party downstairs so we were unable to have a look at the Bamboo Lounge, a private Tiki bar with a stage, projector and sound system. Perfect for a vintage function.

Cocktail Hour? Well…… if you insist!

Sadly the time rushed past so quickly, it was soon time for us to leave to catch the number 243 to Old Street.

Cherry-tastic

I eventually made it to St Pancras as my train was pulling into the platform. Finding my first class seat (in an almost deserted carriage) I whiled away the journey listening to The Cole Porter songbook with a glass of rose.

Rose, Records and Railways

A perfectly decent end to a wonderful day.