shop independent

Food and Drink | UK

Lockdown 2.0: Supporting Independents – Coleshill Special
Byemfletche November 6, 2020September 4, 2025

As Lockdown 2.0 begins in England it’s time to take a look at the independent food and drink options on my doorstep here in Coleshill

Read More Lockdown 2.0: Supporting Independents – Coleshill Special
Birmingham | Ramblings

Why You Should Shop Independent This Christmas
Byemfletche November 23, 2019July 25, 2025

I’m always banging on about choosing independents over large chains – here’s why your local businesses need you to shop independent not only this Christmas but all year round!

Read More Why You Should Shop Independent This Christmas

Alright bab?

I’m Emmalene, a forty-something born and bred Brummie. Married to Chris. AKA Mr Fletche, taker of photographs, driver abroad and long-suffering travel companion.

I’m a big advocate of eating, drinking and supporting local independent businesses.

But travel is my passion. Simple, easy travel. Here you’ll find how to cram all the sights into a weekend city break. Accidental hikes. Travel fails. Honest rambling travel diaries. Where to find craft beer, gin and street food.

We fit travel around full-time jobs, making the most of weekends, Bank Holidays and maximising those precious annual leave days!

Apart from travel, I love to read books, listen to music, drink gin and visit the theatre.

I always love to hear what you think so please like, comment or share!

Happy travelling…home and abroad!

Emmalene, A Brummie Home and Abroad