Back to Reality

I'm home and invariably suffering from some kind of post-holiday depression (not to be confused with my regular neuroticism and negative affect). Europe went by mostly without incident, except for some relatively minor inconveniences like the metal handle of my luggage deciding to snap on the second day of my trip. I trekked to the top of many a cathedral, soaked up the finest Renaissance artwork on the planet, experienced memorable food highs and plunging lows (O'Conway's at Gare du Nord — just don't do it), and visited just about every Boots and Superdrug I encountered. It goes without saying French pharmacies were also super exciting, though I realised I could order most of what I wanted online for the same price with free delivery.

(There's also meant to be the Caudalie Vinosource Hydration Set in there, but I forgot to include it.)

Surprisingly, I felt I was fairly tame in the purchases department. For one, I bought only three pieces of clothing. I didn't buy that much makeup, though I was tempted by the new Charlotte Tilbury counter at Selfridges. I also saw and felt the SUQQU Cheek Brush on my wishlist in person, but was quite underwhelmed at how small and floppy it seemed. A part of me laments not picking up a few more things at Changi Airport en route to Milan, as the prices were by far the most affordable I would encounter. I had a good look at the Sephora on Champs-Élysées but everything was hideously expensive and barely cheaper than Australia.

I made a point to visit the Diptyque store on Boulevard Saint-Germain like it was a worthy tourist experience in and of itself. I forced myself to pick a perfume because I knew I'd be there for the next 3 hours if I didn't. In the end, I settled for Ofresia but I don't know if I'm in love with it. I also picked up the Roses candle though it's somewhat ludicrous I bothered to lug it around and carry it all the way back home when it's not that much cheaper in Paris compared to Mecca Cosmetica (which, by the way, is nearly identical to Space.NK).

Compared to my New York haul, I think I was generally more selective this time around and stuck to a list I'd jotted down beforehand. There also was a much greater emphasis on skin care. In fact, the thing I was most ecstatic about was unintentionally stumbling upon the Pixi store off Carnaby Street in London's Soho and being able to buy a bottle of their elusive Glow Tonic. Win.

And now, a picture dump...