Punctual Picks #8 [Christmas Special]

A new Punctual Picks with ten Christmas special discoveries.

The Ultimate Christmas Playlist ; Daphné Moreau

What better than a Christmas playlist to get into the festive spirit? Blogger Daphné Moreau has created a playlist of more than 24 hours. An eclectic selection to listen to with a hot chocolate and a blanket, watching the snow fall or wrapping presents.

Mode and the City

Christmas at Highclere ; Recipes and Traditions

During my trip of five days in England (in French), I visited Highclere Castle, near Newbury. The place is known for hosting the filming of the series Downton Abbey. Its owner, Lady Carnarvon, has written several books, including one devoted to Christmas recipes and traditions. It inspired me and I greatly enjoyed reading and discovering it. Its recipes delighted my taste buds.

Highclere Castle

The Making of Harry Potter ; Hogwarts in the Snow

Since 2012, The Making of Harry Potter (in French) has offered a complete immersion in the world of the Harry Potter films. Located in Leavesden, near Watford, the filming location welcomes many visitors every year. During the festive season, the studios turn into a true Christmas setting. I was lucky enough to experience a magical, enchanting moment there. The staff outdo themselves in ingenuity to bring Christmas spirit to a grandiose setting. This special time runs from mid-November to mid-January. For those who cannot travel to London, there is a pretty little book called Noël à Poudlard, published by Gallimard.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
Photo credits: Facebook/wbtourlondon

Christmas Biscuits ; Sweet ML

Sweet ML (in French) biscuits are always a moment of pure indulgence. As good as they are beautiful, they are in my kitchen from time to time. With their pretty designs, I still love biting into these little sweet wonders, with a coffee or simply on their own. I have always been a big fan of their creations, even more so at Christmas. They also make an elegant and original gift, to enjoy without moderation.

Sweet ML
Photo credits: Sweet ML

Christmas Market ; Schilliger Garden Centre

If there is one shop that makes my eyes sparkle every year during the holidays, it is the Schilliger Garden Centre (in French) in Gland. During my gift-hunting shopping trips, I always take time to see it in its Christmas finery. The colossal work done to give the place a magical touch is extraordinary. For my part, I never miss this event, punctual too.

Schilliger

Christmas Film ; Love Actually

A screen, a hot tea (in French), a tracksuit, some snow, and here I am watching Love Actually once again. Released in 2003, this film brings together a cast of actors each more talented than the last. A feel-good moment that does me good and lets me forget the daily grind for two hours. If you have never seen it, I invite you to. For those who want a little more, a sequel called Red Nose Day Actually came out in 2017. This short film of about fifteen minutes reunites most of the actors. Its proceeds went to Red Nose Day, the British charity telethon.

Love Actually
Red Nose Day Actually

Christmas Teas ; Kusmi Tea, Mariage Frères and Fortnum & Mason

Winter is coming, the weather is getting colder and night falls earlier. For me, that means drinking lots of tea. For years, I have had my favourite brands, which I drink in large quantities. Here are three teas specially created for Christmas, which sit proudly in my cupboard and in one of my countless cups.

Kusmi Tea
Mariage Frères
Fortnum & Mason
Left photo credit: Daphné Moreau

Christmas Recipes ; Donal Skehan

For many years, I have closely followed Donal Skehan‘s work on social media. On Instagram, I discover moments of his life. On YouTube, I rediscover his countless recipes. I love his passion and his lively side. Like many, the Irish chef offers special recipes for the festive season. Of his many cookbooks, only one has been translated into French.

Website

Christmas Illustrations ; Evriland Art Shop

Etsy is a wonderful platform for creators. From time to time, I come across gems and favourites there. That is what happened with Evriland Art Shop’s magnificent watercolours. It is pink, it is pastel and, what’s more, it is perfectly suited to the holidays. Here are a few creations to tempt you.

Evriland Art Shop
Photo credits: Evriland Art Shop

Christmas Stories ; 24 Contes de Noël

Waiting for the end of December by discovering twenty-four tales from classic literature: that is the lovely idea behind this book. To round out your general knowledge or simply for a change from traditional holiday stories, 24 contes de Noël is a lovely way into the magic of Christmas. For my part, I really enjoyed it.

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Punctual Picks #8

Practical info[]

Fortnum & Mason181 Piccadilly, W1A 1ER LondresGetting there : Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, Victoria)

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Highclere CastleRG20 9RN Highclere

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Sweet MLChemin des Champs-Courbes 5, Halle 36, 1024 ÉcublensGetting there : Ecublens VD, Champs-Courbes (bus 33)

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Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry PotterStudio Tour Drive, WD25 7LR Watford

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All addresses in London in the address book ›