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Michelle Cheung - Beauty, Fashion & Food Birmingham Blog.

December 28, 2020

Brighter than my future | Neon Cargo Trousers - Femme Luxe Refinery



I’ve been living in these lime green neon cargo trousers from Femme Luxe. I’m obsessed with them! If my (future) dog ever lost me, he can spot me from miles away.  💁🏻‍♀️ 

All jokes aside, I’ve been waiting for the neon trend to make a comeback for ages. Do you remember back in the 2000s, there was a neon phase where everyone wore bright leg warmers and mesh tutu skirts? What a vibe. There's just something about neon that brings me so much joy. 

These photo don’t do the trousers any justice, they’re so much brighter in person, it’s actually brighter than my future. I love pairing cargo trousers with basic crop top or bodysuit to let the elasticated sections and pocket detailing truly stand out.

In this outfit, I've styled the trousers with Vans Old Skool Trainers for a casual look. But if you want to dress it up, pop on some strappy heels to give your look a touch of attitude. 



Outfit Details:

Corset - Femme Luxe 
Neon Cargo - Femme Luxe 




*Disclaimer: Items gifted by Femme Luxe.
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December 23, 2020

The Best Sweaters to Gift This Winter-Holiday Season



Alexa, play Sweater Weather by The Neighbourhood.

Sweaters are arguably the most perfect holiday gift, right after socks of course. It's an absolute must-have for the chilly season and they're an extremely versatile item that can be gifted to women and men of all ages. There are plenty of styles to chose from - chunky knits, cardigans, button-ups, pullovers, turtle necks etc - which can make it tricky finding one you know someone is going to love. 

To make your life and gift shopping experience easier, here are the best sweaters for women that make for fabulously cosy gifts this season.

Cashmere Sweater

If there is a special someone who really deserves to be spoiled, gift them a cashmere sweater. Cashmere is known as the “jewel of fabrics”, the luxurious material is incredibly smooth and soft against the skin. It's one of the most premium and comfortable sweaters a person can wear to make their everyday a little more special.

Not only will getting them a high-end, quality sweater like this show much they mean to you, it's also a timeless staple that they can wear for many years. 

Geometric / Print Sweater

A geometric sweater is fun and bold, it's perfect for someone with a lot of personality.

For those festive silly gatherings, you can't go wrong with an ugly Christmas sweater, especially when it's paired with a funny hat. It's bound to brighten up their face and wardrobe when they open your gift. If your gathering is the completely opposite end of the spectrum or if you prefer to play it safe, opt for a print such as strips that can be worn at any time of the year.

Sweater Dress

Sweater dresses technically count as a sweater, providing an extra option for sweater loving women everywhere!

Sweater dresses look fabulous on pretty much everyone. It can be worn casually or dressed up with a belt for an elegant look. Short sweater dresses are ideal for the younger ones, while an over the knee style is more suitable for the older ladies. These women sweater dresses are a special gift that will leave your loved one speechless!

Cardigan

Everyone can appreciate a thick sweater they can wrap around themselves like a blanket. Imagine curling up by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate wearing a blanket-like cardigan - unbeatable cosiness. 

A cardigan is perfect for any age, they come in all different length and styles so you can easily find one that reflects the personal tastes of the person for whom you are buying the sweater.

Mock & Turtle Neck Sweater

Who said cozy sweaters have to be oversized and unflattering?


Mock and turtle neck sweaters are personally my favourite. The fit gives off chic girl boss vibes and its fab for keeping your neck warm for those of us who don't like wearing scarfs. Mock neck sweaters look more expensive than they actually cost too. So, if you're looking to impress a fashion easter on a budget, a mock neck or turtle next sweater is the way to go.

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December 14, 2020

These Jewellery Pieces Will Be Trending in 2021


Though we're all staying at home as much as possible, it doesn't mean you can't spice up your outfit with a little something special... Even if that outfit is your pyjamas that you've worn for three days in a row.

In the age of Zoom calls and waist-up dressing, jewellery can really jazz up your look and draw attention to your face. Jewellery has been overlooked for the larger part of 2020, but it's still extremely exciting to watch runway shows and get a head start on what trends to expect for 2021. 

Do you remember the era of Pandora charms? We've evolved a long way since then. There are few new themes but for the most part, popular styles such as link chains, hoops, statements rings and many more are back on the catwalk. Trends come and go but the same timeless classics remain from year to year. Keep reading to find out the most prevalent, upcoming jewellery trends and styles that will be dominating 2021's fashion scene.



Chains


Among the statement pieces that will make a comeback in 2021 are chain necklaces, most of which will be chunky. Thick chain aren't going anywhere. We've already seen gold chains creep back into our Instagram feeds thanks to the Dior Danseuse Étoile Choker. 

Most outfits elevate into a different look when accompanied by a bold chain. The colour isn’t much of a factor here - bronze, silver and gold chain accessories will raise the ante on any outfit it accompanies and give an aesthetic that is rebellious.

To style a chunky chain necklace, opt for a roll neck without prints and is ideally one colour. You can never go wrong with a black or white turtleneck. For the lower body, go for trousers which will give an athleisure vibe. If you prefer to display your femininity, accompany dainty chains with heels and a dress.

To ensure you’re on top of the game - let the chain do the talking and be the statement. Wear one solo or stack them up but don't pair it with other jewellery pieces as it will takeaway the chain's limelight.

Vintage



It is precedent that young women will take a toll on adorning their outfits with vintage touches. Vintage pieces are associated with character and charm - this attribute makes the owners feel special. 

In jewellery trade terms, 'vintage' describes a piece that was made between 50 and 100 years ago, but don't worry if you can't get your hands on an actual vintage. Many jewellery designs that you see today were inspired by history. There are plenty of styles to choose from - Art Deco, Victorian, Renaissance and even Belle Epoque.

Jewellery is an excellent way of adding a touch of vintage to an outfit. Some of the vintage pieces that will make their debut in the styling world in 2021 include link style bracelets. These kind of bracelets allow the wearer to bring out a classic look in their outfit but in a low key manner. 

A link gold bracelet, for instance, can be paired with a pair of detailed rings, unique ring for engagement, short gold chains or a watch. Gold is an outstanding colour well known for its resemblance with vintage pieces. 

If you can't get enough of vintage treasures, large brooch style pins and clip on style floral earrings are perfect additional pieces.

Sterling Silver


The fine delicate sterling silver will also be back in 2021 for both its classic look and subtle nature. It will be redesigned in a way that reflects jewellery worn in the past few years but with a modern twist of vintage.

There are various wholesalers specialising in all silver jewellery such as pendants, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and silver rings. If you are on the hunt for an eye catching sliver piece with a pop of colour, opt for pendant earrings or necklaces. Most of these feature a cubic or crystal zirconia style stone. Cubic and crystal zirconia are said to be the next 'it' stone. They can be made into any cut or colour and they're sustainable. 

If you are someone who prefers one type of jewellery for daily wear, a pair of tiny silver teardrop style earrings might be what you're looking for bring out the vintage accessory look. However, if you're more of a necklace person, there are many options for you ranging from a pendant drop with jewel features to a fine lariat style.

Moonstone pieces


Gemstones have been highlighted in the fashion world for a long period now, but in 2021, they will gain a lot of popularity. Among the gemstones that have meaning to enthusiasts, is Moonstone. The gemstone has been a favourite for many in June and it has been revered all through history. This piece of jewellery depicts happiness, hope and peace.

Among those who are for these pieces, are women. They are incorporating these jewellery pieces in their jewellery boxes with an aim to bring in positive energy and to enhance their pride. In 2021, the moonstone pieces will be made of white coloured gem and they will be worn as moonstone rings, earrings and pendants.

Statement rings


Layering rings has been a stylish trend especially in summer 2020 and this look will gain even more popularity in 2021. However, what will stand out are chunky and jumbo statement rings. 

Unlike what we are used to wearing at most two chunky rings in different fingers - the rings will be worn with even more than two in each finger. The rings will be made of either plastic, metal or resin and the trend will be mixing the different materials to bring a clashing and bold look.

The cool and edgy trend works excellently with understated garments which are plain, letting the jewellery truly talk the spotlight.  

Modern pearls


Guess what’s back? Pearls. These will be nothing like the ancient pearls you saw your grandmother wearing. They will be delicate pearl hoops embedded in sculptural bracelets or ear cuffs. In these, the classic pieces will have a reimagined update for summer which will be contemporary. 

While women already love pearls, they are looking for an edgier, newer and less perfect way to wear these pieces. In simpler words, they are looking for a look that is pulled together and more undone at the same time.

*Disclaimer: Guest post by Gemone Diamond.

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November 27, 2020

The Perfect Gift of Time: 35% off Nordgreen Black Friday


*Paid collaboration & contains affiliate discount code 'MC35' for 35% off.

With Christmas looming around the corner, you're probably thinking (or panicking) about finding the perfect gift for that special someone. Over lockdown, many of us have been paying attention to our pre-covid consumption habits and the environmental impacts associated with online shopping. It's now more important than ever to support small businesses, ethical brands and consume meaningfully. 

This is why Nordgreen watches make the perfect gift! 

Featuring the Philosopher watch.

Time is possibly the best gift you could give anybody. 

Whether that'd through certain acts of kindness or a sophisticated watch, time is something we could all give each other. Nordgreen’s Scandinavian watches are carefully crafted to withstand the test of time, the watches can be passed down from generation to generation. They're also one of the few gifts that can be worn on a daily basis. I'd say that's a generous way to give someone a daily reminder of you.


Personally special. 

There's nothing that quite beats the moment of witnessing someone filled with joy from unboxing a watch. Even more so, when the timepiece perfectly suits them. It makes the luxurious gift extra special. 

From classic chronographs to minimalist watches, there's a timepiece that suits every individual's personality and style. Nowadays, many watches feature an interchangeable mechanism so you can easily change your strap colour and material. Elevate your look with a bold metal strap to tackle any challenge or keep it casual with a nylon one to add a pop of colour to your outfit.



I have two straps - one in mesh metal and another in real leather. At the time of choosing my two straps, I selected the genuine leather as I didn't realise they also had a vegan option. So if you want to be conscious and opt for an ethical option, their vegan leather straps are available in 4 colours.

Global support beyond your gift. 

Change the world and be part of a brighter future for everyone. When you invest in a Nordgreen watch, it's more than just a gift. Their watches support the health, education and environmental challenges faced by our global communities.

Their Giving Back Programme means that each watch to contributes to 1 of the following 3 global causes:

  • 1 month of clean water to a family in Africa
  • 2 months of free education to children in India
  • Preserve 200 sq ft of rain forest in Latin America

You can still take part in Black Friday while supporting sustainability.

Don't forget, you can use my Black Friday discount code 'MC35' for 35% off storewide. It's only valid until Cyber Monday (1.12.2020). This is the biggest discount offer you'll find in the Nordgreen Black Friday campaign so be quick! But if you've missed it then you have until January to get 15% with 'MC'. 

Happy Black Friday shopping! 

*Disclaimer: Paid collaboration with Nordgreen.
The discount code is an affiliate code, meaning if you purchase with my code, I will receive a commission.
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November 03, 2020

Fire It Up | KATCH ME A/W 2020 Review




If this isn't the most Bonfire Night appropriate outfit then I don't know what is. 🤷🏻‍♀️

When Katch Me asked me to review their Autumn and Winter pieces, I was immediately screaming YES, YES, YES! I've been a fan of the UK online fashion brand ever since discovering them on Instagram and they've been my go to for rave outfits. They always have the most sassy, edgy and bold clothing pieces in the game.

Black Flame Print Cropped Denim Trucker Jacket


The first item I picked out is from their Coats & Jackets range in a size small / 8. 

While most of my friends are excited about bring back neutral tones into their wardrobes, I just wanted something that's unique, ready to slay and firing the place up.

I have been completely head over heals this fire print jacket - the cropped fit and trucker style gives me major 90s and y2k fashion vibes. They also have a matching Flame Print Mini Skirt, if you want to go all out.

The material is very thin, which makes it perfect for transitioning outfits from Summer to Autumn. If raves weren't ruined by the corona outbreak this year, I probably would be wearing this out most weekends because the jacket is sickening and you can easily tie it around your waist. 

I adore pairing the jacket with a black or white crop top. Since the fire print is so bold, I don't want to add any other colours which would take away its limelight. 

Black Chain Detail Vinyl Joggers


The second item I got was from their PU collection in a size 10.

These trousers are made with a vinyl material which is gives it a little bit more shine compared to faux leather. I think that vinyl and leather trousers are an essential in Autumn. They're so flattering, make any outfit pop and just go well with everything. Pair it with a casual t-shirt, bodysuit or even turtle neck jumper - you can't go wrong. 

The chain detail gives these trousers an extra edge and it's not heavy either.

I love that these trousers have deep pockets, that' always a win. Fake pockets are just downright frustrating, where do designers expect me to put my phone?!

Overall

So, that's it for my Katch Me outfit and mini review. I love a good stylish bargain, even more so when all of their products are true to size and look exactly the same as the images on their website. I'm sure we've all been catfished by an online store before, which is not a fab experience. Thank god, it's not the case with Katch Me. I really recommend them if you adore affordable and unique fast fashion pieces. 

I still have a lounge co-ord outfit coming, so be sure to keep your eyes out for that.

Have you guys got anything from Katch Me before? And, what are you plans for the UK's second lockdown? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclaimer: Clothing sponsored by Katch Me. 
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October 04, 2020

Nordgreen: Sustainable & Minimal Designer Watches with a Vision


*Paid collaboration & contains affiliate discount code 'MC' for 15% off.

After being in lockdown for the majority of 2020, our perception of time is all muddled up in the air these days. Who hasn’t lost their sense of time during the pandemic? The last 6 months have been a complete blur.

This bizarre experience has made me realise the true importance of grounding ourselves in time. Our sense of time plays an essential role in influencing our decisions and emotional wellbeing. During the last few weeks, I've been working on taking back control of my time to increase productivity and plan ahead to motivate myself through this intense period. I still have the time management skills of a carrot thanks to my ADHD, but I've found wearing a classic wrist watch by Nordgreen has been drastically helpful with valuing and keeping track of time. It also saves me from having to search my bag for my phone, which ends up becoming an uncalled-for distraction.

Besides the practicality, watches complete the look of an outfit and effortlessly add a touch of sophistication. When it comes to accessories, I like to opt for classic, minimal pieces as they compliment everything in your wardrobe. Nordgreen’s Scandinavian designs fully embrace simplicity and astounding craftsmanship, which is why I absolutely adore their watches. They’re also making strong moves in sustainability and are committed to supporting the challenges faced by our global community with their giving back program (i’ll touch on about later). 

NORDGREEN WATCH DESIGNS


They have 3 women collections:

  • Philosopher
  • Native
  • Infinity

Each style is unique but still maintains their core minimal design - a discreet logo and round face. It’s available in a variety of neutral colours (Silver, Gold, Rose-gold and Gun-metal) to suit all skin tones and personalities.

As a visionaire, I was immediately drawn to Philosopher due to the design thought behind it: ‘to celebrate our ability to think differently, learn from the past, act now, and create a better future’. I particularly adore this design as it fuses timeless classic with contemporary chic. From afar, you may think the watch is rather basic, but when you examine it closer, you’ll notice and appreciate the remarkable level of detail. The conical shaped dial and elevated watch case draws your eyes to the center of the timepiece and gives the watch its unique look.

INTERCHANGEABLE STRAPS


My favourite feature of a Nordgreen watch has got to be the interchangeable design! It lets me change the styling of the strap to match my outfit and create an entirely new look. Furthermore, I can save money and reduce consumption.

I opted for the beautifully crafted Gun-metal Mesh Strap and Black Leather Strap - these 2 are classic staple pieces that will compliment absolutely everything. I often wear bold vivid colours, so I needed straps that are suitable for any occasion. Although, I am currently thinking about adding the Pink Vegan Leather to my collection too. The pastel pink is so dreamy!

The straps are available in a wide range of colours with the option of genuine leather, vegan leather, metal mesh or nylon. 

For the mesh straps, an adjustment tool is included in the package so that you can adjust the strap to fit your wrist.




STYLING THE PHILOSOPHER BLACK LEATHER STRAP


My wrist is quite tiny, so I'm wearing their 36mm timepiece. I’ve decided to dress up my Philosopher watch with a black puff sleeve blazer dress. Even with quite an extra outfit, the watch is still the star of the show. The watch goes just as well with everyday outfits.


I'd recommend pairing the watch with a dainty bangle!

GIVING BACK PROGRAMME

As I mentioned before, Nordgreen has a fantastic programme to help people across the world and throughout the year. When you invest in Nordgreen, it’s not just a watch. You’re supporting an ethical and sustainable company with a strong vision to improve the world one watch at a time.


Every watch contributes to 1 of the following 3 global causes:
  • 1 month of clean water to a family in Africa
  • 2 months of free education to children in India
  • Preserve 200 sq ft of rain forest in Latin America

OVERALL

I’m really impressed with the Nordgreen Philosopher timepiece. Especially with the quality - it’s truly divine craftsmanship that is made to last and can be passed down to the next generation. The simple and aesthetically pleasing design has been very well thought out. It’s a very functional piece, Philosopher features a day stamp too. 

I utterly adore the ethos of the company and their mission - it’s just superb. On top of their sustainable production processes, they also have planted over thousands of trees.

With a variety of sophisticated colours and strap options, there’s something for everyone. It would make a fantastic gift for the minimalists or to simply treat yourself. You can check out Nordgreen’s womens collection here.

You can use the discount code 'MC' to get 15% off.

What are your thoughts regarding this watch and Nordgreen’s sustainable mission? I’d love to hear them in the comments below. 

*Disclaimer: Paid collaboration with Nordgreen.
The discount code is an affiliate code, meaning if you purchase with my code, I will receive a commission.
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April 10, 2020

Through the Keyhole, Birthday Dress | I Saw It First Lookbook


Does anyone else dread when their birthday is around the corner? I'm always torn between throwing a big penthouse party with loads of Insta pretty balloons or just keep it simple.

My indecisive brain ended up doing both anyway - why settle for one when you can have both right? Everyone deserves the most for their special day. 

For my 22nd birthday, I opted for this simple black little dress from I Saw It First. They've been absolutely killing the fashion game this year with all the Love Island sponsors! Can you believe the dress was only £5 too? Such a good bargain and find! The material is actually thick and good quality as well, so good job ISIW.


I'm usually very extra for my birthday but I left my shopping till the last minute, so this is what I get. I love the cute keyhole and bow wrap detailing, it makes a simple dress not as basic. Less is more really does apply to this dress.

The dress was great for a cute dinner and house party after - I did have to keep pulling my dress up every 10 minutes though, itty titty community problems aye. It's a versatile dress, so I definitely won't be only wearing this once. Does anyone else tend to wear outfits once for the gram and then that outfit never sees daylight again? I'm guilty of that but I'm currently trying to be more sustainable (and save money for a house!) by finding key clothing pieces.





View this post on Instagram


A post shared by ☾ MICHELLE | Birmingham (@michellecheungg) on Mar 31, 2019 at 2:00pm PDT

Sadly the dress isn't available anymore but SheIn has some that are similar!

How do you usually celebrate your birthday? Let me know in the comments below.
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March 10, 2020

T4 Birmingham Bubble Tea Giveaway


It's been a while since I've done a giveaway for cu-teas~ 😘🥤💕

I’ve team up with T4 in Birmingham to give five winners some bubbly loving. T4 is an authentic Taiwanese brand, all of their teas are freshly brewed throughout the day using fine loose leave shipped over from Taiwan. The toppings are freshly made from scratch everyday. Their grass jelly is soooo soft, I literally asked the lady to fill half of my boba with grass jelly and pudding (the superior toppings > tapioca pearls). 🙈


My faves would definitely be their Honey Peach Royal Tea (yellow one), Elegant Lady Rose Tea (orange in pictures but it’s pink irl) and Grass Jelly Milk Tea (the cup with hella loads of extra grass jelly floating in).

To enter, head over and comment on my Instagram post:



View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ☾ MICHELLE | Birmingham (@michellecheungg) on Mar 9, 2020 at 12:48pm PDT

Giveaway ends on the March 16th at 8pm.

Each winner will receive two bobas - one for you and your bes-tea (or have two all for yourself! 😜).

Winners will be be chosen at random, contacted by DM and announced on my Instagram stories.

Good luck! ✨

P.S: I am not sorry for the terrible puns hehe.

Disclaimer: Giveaway sponsored by T4.

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February 18, 2020

Is Ola Cabs better than Uber? 10 months brutally honest review!


Brum brum Ola has landed in Birmingham! 🚗

Ola, an international taxi app launched in Birmingham last April. As part of their launch promotion, Sian and I visited 3 of our favourite spots in Birmingham on a tuk-tuk ride! We opted to visit Brindley Place, Digbeth and the Jewellery Quarter (their operation office is also there). It was my first time riding a tuk-tuk and the experience couldn't have been any more fun! We were having a casual rave and blasting house music on the streets. Anytime is sesh o'clock if you want it to be.


Even though the tuk-tuk and my first taxi ride with Ola were gifted, I continued to use the app for 10 months (and I still do but) I HAVE SOME THINGS TO SAY! So, keep reading to find out all the hot tea and how it compares to Uber.

How is Ola different to Uber?

What sets Ola apart from Uber is that it lets customers book both private hires licenced taxis and black cabs. I believe they also have better benefits and commissions for their local drivers. I would tell you the exact benefits but there's no chance my goldfish memory is going to recall the information from almost a year ago.

They've now implemented a security code feature. When you book a ride, you will now see a 4 digit code and you have to tell it to your driver at the start of the ride. I think this is a really brilliant addition to the app, it makes it more secure for the driver and passenger. I'm surprised that Uber didn't come up with this years ago. I'm sick of ordering Ubers on nights out and having drunk people trying to steal my ride. Even worse when they're so drunk, they attempt to start a fight.

Does Ola rival Uber?

In London, Yes. Ola has now arrived in London and with Uber losing their licence, they can't exactly compete against its counterpart there.

As for Birmingham (I can't say for other cities), I don't think so yet. From what I've seen in my friendship groups, most people just use the free ride and delete the app after. As for those that still use it like me, I have both Ola and Uber on my phone. I don't think people will easily give up Uber as so many people use it for Uber Eats. The new code feature might possibly get people to convert in the future.

Time for the pros and cons~


Please ignore my dirty nails, I promise I do clean them regularly but they also get dirty easily every 10 minutes.

Pros:

1. Cheaper than Uber (sometimes).

Your first ride is free up to £10 and then you receive £5 off for the following 5 rides. After that, Ola offers regular discount codes going from 25% down to 10% as you become a frequent user.

However, I've found that it isn't always cheaper. During peak timings, even with the 10% off, Ola rides can cost more. I recommend you to have both apps on your phone. I always check the pricing on both before ordering my ride on whichever one. At the end of the day, both apps serve the same purpose, so I'm going to book the cheaper one and save my money for a rainy day.

2. New security code feature. 

As I mentioned before, I love that it provides more security for everyone and prevents rides from been stolen by strangers.

Cons:

1. Ola removed my referral codes.

I had 3 unused referral discounts (worth £10 each) for getting my friends to download the app and take their first ride. I've tried contacting Ola on all their social channels and email but still have not received a response to this day as to why they have disappeared. Not happy about this at all.

Will I go out of my way to get people to download Ola again? Of course not. But if you would like to use my code to sign up anyway *shameless cheeky plug* its "0PHJE7U". Thank you~ hehe.

2. Lack of drivers around the launch timings.

When Ola launched, I really struggled to book a successful ride for the first few months. There were either only a few drivers or all the drivers in the surrounding area declined to pick me up. In the screenshot below, I have 6 drivers cancelled on me. I was ordering a taxi after a night out in Digbeth. Thank god for Uber otherwise, I wouldn't have gotten home safely that night.

Did Ola take me places? Not really.


3. Only available in a few cities.

The company is expanding to more locations but it's not widely available in the UK. It covers the main cities including Liverpool, Cardiff, Bristol, Bath and Exeter.

Overall:

That's it for my 10 months of experience using Ola. It's been one hell of a ride (no pun intended). I do like the app, well I liked it for the discount codes. At first, I felt like it was going to be a tough competition for the Indian firm to rival Uber but with its new safety features and investment to keep doing better, I think it will be an even better app that will be able to convert more users. I'm still petty over my referral codes disappearing but I'll continue to use Ola Cabs.

Let me know your experience with taxi apps! And, are you sticking with Uber or switching over to Ola? 
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January 19, 2020

Perks of being a Google Local Guide 2022


There's no doubt that you've come across an orange starred Local Guide badge before on Google reviews. I was curious when I saw "Local Guide" - what does a local guide actually do and how do I get a badge next to my name too? Not going to lie, at first I wanted the badge purely for vanity purposes since I write Instagram reviews around Birmingham but now I'm semi addicted to writing reviews again!

The Local Guide programme gives recognition for those that share their reviews, photos and knowledge on Google Maps. You only unlock the badge once you've reached level 4. Local Guides do not get paid by Google itself. However, there are some brands that pay people to write reviews for their Google Business page in an attempt to boost their search rankings. 

Guides can get unlock perks for their contribution - perks included early access to Google features and Google partners. When I was searching for what perks do Local Guides get - apparently, a lot of the perks have dropped over the last few years since it was costing Google so much. Not surprising when there are now over 50 million local guides, so I thought it would be helpful to create an updated perk list for 2020.

In this post, I'll update it whenever I unlock a new perk or benefit (sadly, it's not a holiday to Lantau Island in Hong Kong. I just needed a travel guided looking pic for this post okay). 

► Level 4 - Free Custom Postcard


The postcard perk lasts for 1 month, mine expired by the time I decided who I would like to send one to haha. Who even sends postcards nowadays?

I think this one could possibly be a random perk since I got it in December and it expired on the 31st. Google probably thought it would be a cool perk for the holiday season. If it's not a randomly perk, please correct me in the comments.

► Level 5 - Socks


HOW CUTE ARE THESE??? I hope there's going to be more merch like this. 😍

I'm still waiting for the socks to arrive - it'll take roughly 6-8 weeks. But when they finally do arrive, I'm going to spam cute photos of them and wear them to restaurants to them know what's up! I'm kidding, I won't wear them out but they are much appreciated to keep my feet warm through this horrible winter.

Update: The long-awaited socks in the flesh. 


► Level 6 - Local Guide Special Edition Pin Badge


I don't think you need to reach a specific level to receive the pin; it's more of a thank you for contributing to Maps over time. 

Oops, haven't reached the next level/perk yet...

But be sure to check back as I updated as I level up and receive more perks 😅.

____________________

If you're thinking of becoming a Local Guide purely for the perks, from what I've read on the internet it's not worth it. It requires a lot of time and you won't receive anything high in value. It's purely for helping others, enjoy sharing your experiences/stories and photography. 

Until then the next update, you can follow my adventures on Instagram @michellecheungg.
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on January 19, 2020 2
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W3Schools

A British Born Chinese blogging in Birmingham, UK since 2013. This blog is my excuse for purchasing excess makeup, clothes and food that I don't need.

Collabs: himichellecheungg@gmail.com

Disclaimer* All products are purchased with my own money unless stated otherwise. My reviews are my own honest opinion.

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About me

Hi, i'm Michelle!
A British Born Chinese blogging in Birmingham, UK since 2013. This blog is my excuse for purchasing excess makeup and clothes and sharing my foodie adventures!

For collabs: himichellecheungg@gmail.com

Disclaimer* All products are purchased with my own money unless stated otherwise. My reviews are my own honest opinion.
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