Summer Craze

N O U R I S H

Y O U R

B O D Y

·

S O A K

B R E N D A

I N

L E E

T H E

S U N

·

B E

H A P P Y

B R E N D A

L E E

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I would like to thank my best friend Ariel Beninca as you have challenged me to become such a better designer. You are one of the kindest, more generous and honest person I know. I love how we are equally passionate about food and design. You keep me motivated to expand my skills and are always wanting to help me, whether it is helping code my website or brutally honest about how ugly that font is (haha!).

Another person I would like to credit and thank is Alexandra Gonzalez-Mendoza. We had seen each other once, then twice briefly, but we gelled so quick. Thank you so much for photographing my recipes.

AUTHOR

B R E N D A

L E E

t w ent y / graphi c des i gner / f oodi e

“The only limit is the one you set yourself.”

You have picked up this book, probably read the

it. Not until this year when I came to a realisation of

blurb or maybe the front cover peaked your curiosity?

how much weight I had actually put on.

Before you start flicking through the pages, I want to quickly introduce myself and tell you why I decided to

March 2016. I was in the worst shape of my life. I

create this book.

had put on more weight than ever. First year of uni, I weighed 54 kilos, then 3rd year, found myself at 70

Firstly, onto introducing myself. My name is Brenda

kgs. I stopped working out, stopped eating healthy

Lee. I am a 20-year-old Graphic Designer who is

and stopped wanting to look nice. Then overnight, I

pretty much obsessed with anything to do with food

decided to turn it all around. I told myself I never want

and design. I decided to create this plant-based book

to feel this way again. I wanted to feel lively, confident

that encapsulated everything that I have learned,

and be able to wear all the amazing clothes I would

discovered and fell in love with when I began to

fantasise over. I went back to eating plant-based, got

change my lifestyle.

myself a gym membership, spent time outdoors being active and started to find that excitement for life.

Now I didn’t start out eating plant-based from birth.

I was the worst junk food eater, binging over Mc

Fast-track to now (October 2016), most of what I eat

Donald’s, chips, all the bad things you can think of.

(unless eating at vegan friendly restaurants), I cook

Then around 5 years ago, I discovered YouTube.

from scratch and are free from meat and dairy. I had

YouTube changed my life, from cooking tutorials,

lost 10 kilos and put on muscle weight. I go to the gym

workout routines, and then stumbling upon people

almost every day and have never been this motivated

eating a plant based/vegan diet. I noticed they

at achieving my goals and had a stronger mind.

were so lively, happy and their skin was glowing.

They talked about the ethical reasons, the health

I truly believe with every being in my soul that true

benefits and the effects the meat industry had on

happiness and health comes from within – what you

the environment. I went on a rampage watching

put in your body. But not only that, having a positive

documentaries, YouTube videos and articles about

and strong mind that will push and drive you to

plant based diets and veganism. Then soon after, I

succeed in any environment (even those that may

proceeded to change my diet, adding in more fruits,

seem impossible to thrive in). I wanted to create a

more vegetables and cutting out meat and diary. I

book that included everything that helped me gain

began to notice my skin clearing up. I wasn’t feeling

this confidence and happiness.

sluggish or having bad stomach aches like I used to have. My energy increased and I could breathe better,

I hope you find this book helpful, find motivation and

think better and found myself happier. I did this for a

inspire you get that kick for life! Don’t forget, your

couple of years on and off, but didn’t really stick with

only limit, is the one you set yourself.

LIQUIDS

FOOD

JU ICES

S N AC K S

12 . Summe r Re fre s h e r

32 . C h oc - a l m on d En er g y B a l l

14. M orni n g Ris e

34 . Pea n u t B u t t er Del i g h t s

16 . Ca rrot K ick

36 . G oi n’ C oc on u t s f or C h i a Pu ddi n g

18. Zesty To n ic Re v iv e r B OWL S 2 0. G ree n H o p p e r 38. S u n Ra y 2 2 . Beet T h e Zin g 4 0. Pi n k F l a m i n g o SM OOTHIE S Q UI C K M EA L S 2 4. M inty Fr e s h 4 2 . Av o & L i m e C r u n c h 2 6 . Isla nd Re s cu e 4 4 . Ra i n bow Rol l s PROTEIN S H AK E S

4 6 . S u m m er S pa g h et t i

2 8. Cho c-m in t Fr ap p e

4 8. Veg et a bl e S ou p

2 9. Va nilla C o lad a S h ake

50. M a r g h er i t a Pi z z a

8

R E C O M M E N D AT I O N S

FFO OO OD DC CHA HAIIN NSS 7742.. Dom Domiinnos os

BRISBAN BRISBANEE 54.

53. Ve Vege gerram amaa 56 55.. Lo Lovvin ingg H Huutt 58.

56 . Kis Kisss TThhee Be Berry rry 59.

57. FJ’s

775.

3 . Z a m ber o 7764. G u z m a n Y G om ez 7764. B oost 777.

5. GGrri il l l’ ’dd A ADV DVEN ENTTUR UREE

658.

0. Pr Pre e sssseedd Ju Juice icess 659.

1. Co C oco cobblis lisss 6620.. G Goovvin inddas as

80.

7 8. B u r l ei g h Hea ds 82 80.. Ta Tallllebu ebudg dger eraa 84 82.. C Cuurrrruum mbi binn

G GOLD OLD C COAST OAST

86 84. F i t n ess Rel a t ed A c t i v i t i es

664.

2 . BBle lennddlo lovvee 6664.. C ard am o n Po d

H E A LT H & H A P P I N E S S

668.

6. A Alfre lfr edd’s ’s D Din ineerr 70.

6 8. G Gre reeennhhoouussee CCan ante teeenn ++ Bar Bar 72 70.. G Grriffith iffith U Unniv iveerrs s ity ity

988.

0. Hea Healltthhyy B Body ody iiss aa Ha Happy ppy B Body ody 9920.. N Naattuurraall B Bea eauuttyy iiss tthhee B Best est B Bea eauuttyy 9942.. Keepi Keepinngg M Mot otiivvaatted ed 9964. Pr odu c t i v i t y a t i t ’s B est 998.

6 . RRuullee You Yourr M Miinndd or or iitt Wi Willll RRuullee You You

LIQUIDS

10

Summer Refresher

Ingredients

Pop the pineapple and watermelon into your blender and process for at least 1 minute until smooth. Pour the juice over a

1 cup chopped fresh pineapple

sieve (optional). Serve with ice and mint.

3 cups chopped watermelon fresh mint

Serves 2

Tips Blend the watermelon and pineapple to get more juice out of them.

You can either put the juice through a sieve (for a smooth and clean texture) or keep the pulp and make a fresh slushie by blending it up with ice (to keep the fibre).

Blend the mint with the pineapple and watermelon for that extra burst of freshness.

Have mint leaves floating in the pitcher or glass cup to infuse with the juice for added flavour.

Perfect for barbecues or parties.

juice

12

Morning Rise

Ingredients

Pop the oranges and green apples in your juicer. After juicing, combine with the lemon juice. Pour the juice over a sieve

4 oranges

(optional). Serve with ice.

2 green apples juice of 1 lemon

Serves 2

Tips Put the juice through a sieve (for a smooth and clean texture) or keep the pulp to retain the fibre.

For a sweeter taste, replace green apples with red apples.

Adjust the amount of lemon juice for a more alkalising drink.

Perfect for the morning or a picnic date.

juice

14

Carrot Kick

Ingredients

Pop the carrots, tomatoes and mandarins in your juicer. Pour the juice over a sieve (optional). Serve with ice.

4 carrots 2 tomatoes 3 mandarins

Tips You can either put the juice through a sieve (for a smooth and

Serves 2

clean texture) or keep the pulp and make a fresh slushie by blending it up with ice (to keep the fibre).

Adjust the quantity of mandarins for a sweeter taste.

Perfect post-surf or after a long day at work. Helps to refresh and energise the body.

juice

16

Zesty Tonic Reviver (shot)

Ingredients

Put the orange and ginger through the juicer. Using your hand or a manual hand juicer, extract the juice of one lemon. Combine the

1 orange

juices together. Drink the shot every morning or at night.

ginger (own preference) juice of 1 lemon

Makes 3-4 shots

Tips Have the shot cold as it makes it easier to drink (the ginger tastes less intense).

Drink ice cold water right after to relieve the after taste of the ginger.

Why? Ginger supports healthy digestion and immunity. Combined with orange and lemon, it cleanses and detoxifies the body, whilst boosting your metabolism. It also helps alkalinise your body.

juice

18

Green Hopper

Ingredients

Juice the apple, cucumber, celery and ginger. Blend the kale, juice of 1 lemon and spinach in the blender along with the rest of

2 green apples

the juice. Serve with ice.

1 cucumber 3 celery stalks

Tips

1/2 cup spinach thumb-sized amount ginger

Blend any leafy greens such as kale and spinach to keep the fibre and nutritious content.

1/2 cup kale juice of 1 lemon

Blend the ginger if your juicer does not extract juice well.

Put the juice through a sieve (for a smooth and clean texture) or

Serves 2

keep the pulp to retain the fibre.

Perfect way to get in greens and essential micro-nutrients.

juice

20

Beet The Zing

Ingredients

Juice the apples, beetroot, carrot and ginger. Combine the juice of one lemon. Serve with ice.

2 green apples 1 beetroot 3 carrots juice of one lemon thumb-sized amount ginger

Tips Blend the ginger if your juicer does not extract juice well.

Put the juice through a sieve (for a smooth and clean texture) or keep the pulp to retain the fibre.

Serves 2 A great pick-me-up for the afternoon.

juice

22

Minty Fresh

Ingredients

Blend acai, raspberries, strawberries, apple juice, mint and coconut water together. Optional: serve with fresh berries on top.

1 sachet amazonian acai 1/3 cup frozen raspberries 1/3 cup frozen strawberries 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves 60 ml apple juice 250 ml coconut water

Tips Use pitaya puree (dragonfruit puree) instead of acai for a different flavour.

To turn this into an acai bowl, reduce the amount of apple juice and coconut water. Serve with fresh berries and chopped banana on top.

Serves 2

smoothie

24

Island Rescue

Ingredients

Blend the banana, pineapple, mango and coconut water together.

Top with coconut flakes.

1 banana 3/4 cup frozen pineapple 3/4 cup frozen mango

Tips

1 cup coconut water coconut flakes (to top)

To turn this into an smoothie bowl, reduce the amount of coconut water. Serve with chopped banana and tropical fruit on top.

Serves 2

smoothie

26

Choc-mint Frappe

Ingredients

Add the cold water into the blender first, followed by the banana, protein powder, cacao powder, mint leaves and 4-5 ice cubes.

350 ml cold water

Blend until desired texture.

2 tbsp chocolate protein powder 1/2 tbsp organic cacao powder

Tips

1/2 banana 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves ice cubes

When blending with protein powder, always add the liquids first (in this case water) into the blender to prevent the powder from sticking to the bottom.

You can switch up the water with almond, coconut or macadamia

Serves 1

milk for more of a creamy taste.

I used Nature’s Way Protein Powder (vegan). Can be found at Woolworths & Chemist Warehouse.

protein

shake

28

Vanilla Colada Shake

Ingredients

Add the cold water into the blender first, followed by the pineapple, banana, protein powder and 4-5 ice cubes. Blend

350 ml cold water

until desired texture.

2 tbsp vanilla protein powder 1/2 cup chopped pineapple

Tips

1/2 banana When blending with protein powder, always add the liquids first

ice cubes

(in this case water) into the blender to prevent the powder from sticking to the bottom.

Serves 1 You can switch up the water with almond, coconut or macadamia milk for more of a creamy taste.

I used Nature’s Way Protein Powder (vegan). Can be found at Woolworths & Chemist Warehouse.

protein

shake

29

GOOD FOOD IS GOOD MOOD

Choc-almond Energy Ball

Ingredients

Process or chop finely the 5 pitted dates. Combine the dates with the coconut oil, almond milk, almond meal, cacao powder, protein

1 tbsp coconut oil 1 tbsp almond milk 1 tbsp almond meal

powder, maple syrup and 2 tbsp of crushed almonds in a bowl (leave the other half to coat the balls). Use your hands to create approximately 3cm in diameter balls. Coat the balls with the rest of the crushed almonds.

1/2 tbsp organic cacao powder 1 tbsp chocolate protein powder

Tips

5 pitted dates 1 tbsp organic maple syrup

Can be eaten straight away or refridgerate for 20 minutes for the balls to harden. I prefer eating the balls cold as the texture is

4 tbsp crushed almonds

Makes 4 balls

snacks

more chewy.

Great to make in batches and to store in the fridge for a postworkout snack. Perfect for picnics, parties and to take to work.

32

Peanut Butter Delights

Ingredients

Combine the vanilla protein powder, peanut butter, allmond meal, crushed peanuts, maple syrup, almond milk in a bowl. Use hands

1 1/2 tbsp vanilla protein powder 1 1/2 tbsp crunchy peanut butter

to bring the ingredients together. Start rolling the mixture into balls. Coat the balls with desicated coconut.

2 tbsp almond meal 1 tbsp crushed peanuts 1 tbsp maple syrup

Tips Can be eaten straight away or refridgerate for 20 minutes for

1 tbsp almond milk

the balls to harden. I prefer eating the balls cold as the texture is

1 tbsp desicated coconut

more chewy.

Great to make in batches and to store in the fridge for a post-

Makes 4 balls

snakcs

workout snack. Perfect for picnics, parties and to take to work.

34

Goin’ Coconuts for Chia Pudding Ingredients

Whisk the almond milk, vanilla extract and honey in a bowl until the mixture has combined. Add in the chia seeds and stir. Pour

1 cup coconut milk 1 tbsp vanilla extract

mixture into a jar or glass container and place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to let gel. Serve with your favourite fruits and granola.

1 tbsp maple syrup 1/4 cup white chia seeds Tips Toppings Prepare the night before to have ready for breakfast the next blueberries strawberries

morning. It is also great to make in the morning for a delicious pre-made dessert after dinner.

coconut flakes granola

Serves 2

snacks

36

Sun Ray Ingredients

Blend the acai, banana, mixed berries, coconut water and apple juice together until smooth consistency. Pour mixture into a

1 sachet of amazonian acai 1 banana

bowl and top with chopped banana, pineapple, strawberries, blueberries and granola.

1/3 frozen mixed berries 1 1/2 cup coconut water 1/4 apple juice Toppings banana

Tips Works great as a smoothie. Add more coconut water and apple juice for desired smoothie texture.

Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

pineapple fresh strawberries granola of choice fresh blueberries

Serves 2

bowls

38

Pink Flamingo Ingredients

Blend the pitaya, banana, pineapple, mango, mixed berries and coconut water until smooth. Pour mixture into a bowl and top with

1 sachet purreed pitaya

fruits, granola and coconut flakes.

1 banana 3/4 cup frozen pineapple

Tips

1/2 cup frozen mango 1/2 cup mixed berries

Works great as a smoothie. Add more coconut water for desired smoothie texture.

1 1/2 cup cocomut water Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Toppings banana strawberries raspberries blueberries figs granola of choice coconut flakes

Serves 2

bowls

40

Avo & Lime Crunch Ingredients

Toast the sourdough bread. With a knife, carefully cut the avocado into thin slices. Spread the slices of avocado out on the

2 slices of sourdough bread

bread. Sprinkle with chia seeds and top with a squeeze of lime.

1 avocado half a lime

Tips

black chia seeds Another way I like to eat this is smashing the avocado in a small bowl, then stirring in the lime juice with the avocado. I then spoon Serves 1

it onto my toast. This ensures that every mouthful has the fresh zingy lime flavour.

I also like eating this for breakfast with baked beans. I spoon some avo and lime onto my toast and then some baked beans on top. The combination of the creamy tangy flavour of the avocado and lime, with the sweet and salty soft texture of the beans go extremely well together!

Don’t throw away the used limes. Pop it in a pitcher and let it infuse with some ice cold water. I eat my meals with a tall glass of water with “recycled” lime.

quick

meals

42

Rainbow Rolls Ingredients

Fill a circular plate with warm water (preferably a plate that has cuved edges that can hold liquid), immerse rice paper roll until

15 rice paper rolls

it is al dente (soft, but still firm). Lay rice paper roll out onto a

1 cup julienne carrots

chopping board or a flat surface. Place the lettuce wedge in

1 cup julienne cucumber

the center first, then top with pieces of carrot, cucumber, red

1 cup sliced red cabbage

cabbage and two slices of avocado. Roll away from your body

30 sliced avocado pieces

180 degrees, then tuck in the sides and continue to roll tightly.

15 baby cos lettuce wedges To make the sauce, place all the ingredients into a small blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Serve with rice paper

Dipping Sauce

rolls.

2 tbsp natural peanut butter 3 tbsp maple syrup Tips

2 tbsp soy sauce juice of 1 lime 1/4 cup fresh mint

Instead of eating this in roll form, you can switch out the rice

thumb-size piece fresh ginger

paper rolls with vermicelli noodles. You then have a quick and

2 cloves garlic

tasty noodle salad with a punchy dressing. Top the salad off with

30 ml almond milk

crushed macadamias for ultimate texture!

Serves 2

quick

meals

44

Summer Spaghetti Ingredients

Bring a saucepan filled with water to a boil. At boiling point, throw in the spaghetti. When al dente, pour the spaghetti over a sieve

2 diced tomatoes

or colander. Pour cold water over spaghetti to ensure that the

1 tbsp basil

cooking process stops.

1 diced brown onion 4 minced cloves garlic

Set stove to medium to high heat. Drizzle olive oil into frying pan.

1 diced zucchini

When heated, throw in garlic and onion. With a wooden spoon,

2 tsp sugar

stir until caramelised. Add the diced tomatoes, zucchini and

1 tsp salt

mushrooms to the pan. Let ingredients simmer for 2-4 minutes,

4 tbsp olive oil

then add in the pasta sauce. Lower the heat to medium and let

1 tbsp italian herbs

the sauce simmer while constantly stirring.

a pinch chili powder 2 tsp pepper

Add in the nutritional yeast, herbs and spices. Taste and adjust

1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional)

spices according to your preference. Once you are happy with

500 g spaghetti

the taste, combine the spaghetti with the sauce. With tongs,

9 diced white mushrooms

fold the spaghetti through the sauce, making sure to coat each

2 tsp oregano

strand.

500 g organic pasta sauce Serve with chopped or whole basil. Top it off with more nutritional yeast if desired.

Serves 4 Tips Make extra as it is a great lunch option for the next day.

Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick meal to whip up for your significant other or friends.

quick

meals

46

Vegetable Soup Ingredients

Bring a saucepan to medium-high heat. Drizzle olive oil onto the pan. When hot, throw in the garlic and onion. Stir with wooden

3 tbsp olive oil

spoon until caramelised. Next add the carrot, celery, tomato and

half an onion quartered

potato. Let the vegetables caramelise with the onion and garlic for 3-5 minutes. Add in the water and tomato paste. Lower stove

3 minced garlic cloves

to medium heat and cover saucepan with lid. Let the soup simmer

1 carrot chopped

for 15-20 minutes. With a fork, check if the potato and carrots have softened. Crack some salt and pepper into the soup, also

2 stalks celery chopped

adding a pinch of sugar. Season to taste. Serve with chopped

1 tomato chopped into chunks

coriander.

1 russet potato chopped into cubes 1 1/2 tbsp tomato paste

Tips

a pinch of sugar Serve with a side of white or brown rice. Perfect compliment for

4 cups water

this hearty vegetable soup. What I like to do is mix my rice in with the soup. Quick to make and super filling!

Serves 2

quick

meals

48

Margherita Pizza Ingredients

Combine dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl and add oil and water. Mix to a soft dough and knead on a floured

2 cups plain flour

surface until soft and pliable. Place dough in the mixing bowl and cover with cling wrap and leave in a warm area for 30

8 g dry yeast

minutes. The dough should double in size. Remove from

1 tsp caster sugar

bowl and knead gently for 1 minute. Roll the dough out to

1/2 tsp salt

desired size.

2 tbsp olive oil

Place the rolled out dough onto either a non-stick baking

3/4 cup lukewarm water

tray or cover with baking paper first. Spread on the pizza sauce, the sliced tomatoes, the basil leaves and the vegan

pizza sauce

cheese. Optional: season with salt and pepper. Pop it in

2 tomatoes sliced fresh basil leaves vegan cheese

the oven for 10-15 minutes, depending on how crispy and caramelised you like your pizza.

Serve with fresh basil on top.

Serves 4

Tips You can either make your own pizza dough, or head to your local Woolworths (like I usually do because it’s so fast and tastes amazing!) and grab yourself the Laucke Specialty Mix, Pizza & Focaccia. The box comes with two sachets. Each sachet enough to make 2 giant pizzas. So 4 altogether.

quick

meals

50

V E G E TA R I A N

V E G E R A M A Wes t E nd, M yer C entre, Post O f f i ce

If you live in Brisbane or are travelling towards the city, definitely stop by Vegerama. Vegerama is not 100% vegan, but has a huge range of vegan options to choose from.

There are three locations, one that is a restaurant in West End, and smaller shops at the Myer Centre and at Post Office Square. The West End restaurant has a selection of staple dishes, while the smaller shops in Brisbane CBD do a lot of takeaway curries, salads and desserts – perfect for people working in the city and are on a lookout for a vegan lunch. Dishes are sold through the sizing of plates – small, medium, large. With options of 1 choice with rice, 2 choice with rice and other side dishes to choose from on top of that. For example, samosa’s, lasagne, burritos cost extra and are sold separately from the plate options.

RECOMMEND

PRICE

House Made Samosa – the flavour is amazing, super filling

A bit on the pricier side, although some dishes are totally

and a great starter.

worth it! Like the ones I recommended, I would be happy to

Thai Green Curry – very fresh, good amount of vegetables,

order again.

perfect for dinner.

Liver Cleanser (cold pressed juice) – one of the freshest and vibrant (in taste) cold pressed juice I’ve ever had (and I’ve tried a lot of juices).

Banana Cake – super moist, very satisfying, one of the best, if

PA R K I N G

There is street parking available. Free past 7pm. I usually park across the street at the Markets Shopping Centre. There is a parking lot in front of it, but often hard to get a spot.

not the best vegan cake I’ve had in my life. Not overly sweet, which I love.

ADDRESS

AMBIENCE

220 Melbourne Street, Brisbane, QLD 4101

The atmosphere at West End is very romantic from the lighting

Opening Hours:

Breakfast

and with the added plants hanging from the side walls, gives

6:30 AM – 11:30 AM

a very modern and earthy touch. Ideal for a catch-up with

Lunch

friends or a romantic date at night.

11:30 AM – 2:30 PM

recommendations

55

VEGAN

L O V I N G

H U T

M o unt Gravatt

Loving Hut has a variety choices of entrees and mains.

PRICE

From Summer Rolls, Sweet and Sour Nuggets, Thai Red Curry, to Lasagne and Polenta. They have a diverse range

The entrees range from $6.50 - $8.00 and the mains, $9.90 - $14.80. The desserts, $6.00 - $7.30. Very reasonable in

of cuisines and each serving is enough to feed two people

regards to the portion sizing for the mains. I’ve eaten here

at times!

quite a few times and I always end up having to share with my family and friends as with some dishes there is no way you

RECOMMEND

could eat it yourself without feeling super stuffed. Plus, it’s always nice to order different dishes and have variety.

My all-time favourite thing off the menu are the Spiced Wedges ($6.50). There aren’t that many wedges on the plate,

PA R K I N G

but what makes it worth every penny is the lime tartar sauce.

Honestly the best vegan sauce for chips I’ve had. They don’t

I usually park for free at Red Rooster (very close to Loving

give you much sauce, so I always end up finishing half the

Hut). There is also free and paid street parking nearby.

chips and when I run out of sauce, I kindly ask for more.

ADDRESS Other mains that I’ve ordered again and again are the Thai Red Curry, Lasagne and the Sweet and Sour Nugget. The

2/1420 Logan Rd, Mount Gravatt QLD 4122

vegetables in the curry are always crunchy and fresh. The rice is steamed to perfection and the level of spice is just how I like it. The lasagne is packed full of veggies, the fresh side salad (with amazing dressing might I add) compliments

Opening Hours:

Mon – Fri: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

the cheesy and warm texture of the lasagne. The Sweet and Sour Nuggets are hand battered soy protein nuggets

Sat: 12:00 PM – 8:30 PM

and vegetables mixed in a traditional sweet and sour sauce, served with steamed white rice. The texture and taste of the nuggets are similar to meat.

AMBIENCE

The interior of Loving Hut is very simple. I find that that interior does not reflect the potential of their food. With a bit of updating and refurbishing, I feel like it would bring more customers in to try how tasty vegan food can be.

Closed Sunday

recommendations

57

V E G A N F R I E N D LY

K I S S

T H E

B E R R Y

Sout h B ank & Bri s bane C i ty

Kiss The Berry specialises mainly in acai bowls, which also makes great smoothies, coffee and snacks like protein balls and banana bread.

RECOMMEND

Kiss the Berry are always changing up their menu according to the season. The Original bowl is one of my favourites as the acai blend is always so refreshing. I also have had the Autumn Bowl a couple of times and loved it!

AMBIENCE

Love the interior, very feminine and pretty. Their design perfectly targets young adults, mostly girls who like to eat healthy and workout. Though I have seen many guys there as well!

ADDRESS

PRICE

Southbank The ABC Building, Shop 65/114 Grey St, Southbank QLD 4101

The Original Bowl is $10.50 for a small and $12.50 for a large.

Though I think the small bowls are big enough for one person.

Opening Hours:

If you were sharing, I would get the larger one. The fancier

Mon-Sun: 7:00 AM – 5:00PM

bowls run up to $16. I still prefer the more fruity and original blends in my opinion.

PA R K I N G

Brisbane City Shop 1/99 Creek St, Brisbane QLD 4000

I would recommend taking the bus to Southbank or to the City. Or else there is paid parking available.

Opening Hours:

Mon-Thu: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Fri: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM Sat, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM

V E G A N F R I E N D LY

F J ’ S

F R E S H

J U I C E

Bri sbane C BD

FJ’s Fresh Juice opened in Brisbane 13 years ago, selling high quality, fresh juices. The juice is squeezed, bottled and chilled on site for immediate consumption. The juices are displayed in an open refrigerated display for you to select. FJ’s Juices contains no added sugar, no preservatives, no concentrates and the juice is not heattreated for long life. FJ’s also do delicious smoothies and healthy acai bowls.

RECOMMEND

My favourite juice to get is FJ’s Juice Blend (carrot, celery, apple, beetroot and ginger) for only $4.50 (375 ml). It is a bit pricier than other juices as it has more ingredients, but totally worth it. Their watermelon and orange juice always taste amazingly fresh and sweet.

PA R K I N G

AMBIENCE

Would definitely bus or tram. There is parking around at the Myer Centre or Queens Plaza for a cost. The bus station is

The shop is neatly displaced and prices are clear. You can

right under FJ’s.

easily read and grab the juices. The staff is always friendly.

Almost every morning before walking to work in Brisbane, I

ADDRESS

would pick up one of these juices and there would always be a friendly staff member serving me at the counter, offering me a bag and a straw.

PRICE

Brisbane City 91 Queen Street, Brisbane QLD 4000

Opening Hours:

Mon-Thu: 7:00 AM – 5:45 PM Fri: 7:00 AM – 8:30 PM

Ridiculously cheap. The juices run from $3 (300 ml),

Sat & Sun: 8:00 AM – 4:45 PM

$3.80/$4.00 (375 ml), $4.50 (500 ml) and they also offer one litre juices ($7.00). Talk about a bargain.

recommendations

59

V E G E TA R I A N

P R E S S E D

J U I C E S

B ri sbane C BD

Pressed Juices sells a wide variety of juices, smoothies, salads, desserts and snacks.

RECOMMEND

I absolutely love to drink any of the green juices to cleanse and detox my body. The Antiox 3 – Blood Orange, Passionfruit, Acai and Lucuma is super refreshing as well.

AMBIENCE

Pressed Juices shares a shop with Nodu Donuts (which also have a raw vegan donut selection). Tip: grab yourself a vegan donut and a juice while you’re there! The juices and meals are nicely displayed in the fridge, with ingredients shown clearly. There isn’t anywhere to sit down as most people who purchase food there have to run back to the office.

PRICE

Quite expensive for juice. It is $9 for a juice or a smoothie.

You wouldn’t find quality ingredients anywhere else for cheaper though.

PA R K I N G

No parking available nearby. Would have to park near Queen St, Myer Centre or Queens Plaza and then walk. Definitely recommend bussing it to the city, then walk.

ADDRESS

Brisbane City 284 Elizabeth St Brisbane, Brisbane QLD 4000

Opening Hours:

Mon-Fri: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sat & Sun: Closed

V E G E TA R I A N

C O C O

B L I S S

H a m i l t on, W i n t e rg a r den, Paddi ngton, Bul i mba, Garden C i ty

A place to conveniently get healthy, refined sugar free, superfood boosted eats and drinks when on the run.

Specialises in Acai Bowls. Their mantra is eating pure, nutritious and raw whole-foods. Great place to get a juice or smoothie made with real, nutrient dense ingredients.

RECOMMEND

Absolutely recommend their raw desserts, from their chia pudding to their peanut butter protein balls. My favourite is the original bowl.

AMBIENCE

Their branding and aesthetic is very clean and beachy. It definitely screams “fresh” and “tropical”. It makes you want to get something cold and refreshing there. Desserts are laid out well and everything just looks pretty.

PRICE

Their original acai bowl is $12. Other acai bowls are $14 and more if you decide to add extras. Desserts run from around $3.50-$9. The peanut butter ball is definitely worth it.

PA R K I N G

Usually situated in shopping centres. You would have to take public transport or park at the shopping centre.

recommendations

61

V E G E TA R I A N

G O V I N D A S Wes t E nd, B r i s ba n e C i t y, S urf ers Paradi se, Burl ei gh Heads

Govindas is similar to Vegerama in the fact that they go by plate size. Entrees, sides and desserts are sold separately. Depending on which location you go to, some have more vegan options than others.

RECOMMEND

My favourite Govindas in the one on George St in Brisbane City. It is more tailored to Indian Cuisine and has a $10 all you can eat (including drink and dessert – all vegan) “Feast Meal” if you show your student ID card. Usually $12.90. The Feast Meal includes fragrant jasmine rice, daily special mixed vegetable curry, split mung dahl (lentil soup), koftas (savoury vegetable puffs), fresh tomato and herb chutney, pappadam (lentil tortillas), fresh garden salad, halava (semolina fruit pudding) with custard (seriously one of my favourite desserts and melts in your mouth) and home-made ginger & mint lemonade. This is sure to keep you full and satisfied. The Feast Meal is only available at the West End and Brisbane City locations.

If you’re looking for more choices like a buffet, head to the Surfers Paradise location and grab yourself a small or medium plate ($10-$12) and go crazy on the huge array of salads, curries, pasta, fried sweet potato, garlic bread, rice, noodles and dessert. I recommend getting the smaller plates as I personally think it’s impossible to finish the all you can eat $15 plate. I’d rather spend less and just be able to fill the plate to the corners (as you can pile it up as much as you want). Love their variety of salad dressings as well. Lots of sweet and savoury dressings to choose from.

AMBIENCE PRICE The atmosphere at West End is very romantic from the Very reasonable (especially the all you can eat $10 Feast Meal

lighting and with the added plants hanging from the side

at the Brisbane locations).

walls, gives a very modern and earthy touch. Ideal for a catchup with friends or a romantic date at night.

PA R K I N G

West End 82 Vulture Street, West End, QLD 4101

West End – Street Parking Brisbane City – Myer Centre Car Park, Queens Plaza Car Park,

Opening Hours:

Lunch Mon to Sat: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

by Bus (best option).

Dinner Mon to Fri:

Surfers Paradise – Street Parking, Parking along Surfers

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Paradise Beach, Car Park opposite Solaire Apartments (where I always park as it is free after 7pm).

Burleigh Heads – Paid parking along James St, free parking at Justin’s Park (across the road), free parking up the Burleigh Hill.

Surfers Paradise Shop 6/3120 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

ADDRESS

Opening Hours:

Mon – Sun: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Brisbane CBD 358 George St, Brisbane, QLD 4000

Opening Hours:

Breakfast Mon to Fri: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM Mon to Sat: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

recommendations

Burleigh Heads 20 James St, Burleigh Heads, QLD 4220

Opening Hours:

Mon – Sun: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

63

VEGAN

B L E N D L O V E S ou t h p ort, Gol d C oast

Blendlove keeps things simple with just serving delicious

PA R K I N G

breakfast and lunch menu items. From berry pancakes, veggie burgers to smoothies and fresh acai bowls, also

Parking is super limited as the parking lot right in front of the café is always all taken (unless you’re super lucky). I tend to

famous for their square-sized vegan cheesecakes. Their

park across the street where the gas station, Subway and

presentation is playful and vibrant, decorated beautifully

Nandos is and walk over.

with fruit and edible flowers, making every single dish Instagram worthy. Perfect place to take your mum out for breakfast or a cute afternoon date with friends or a

ADDRESS

1/253 Ferry Rd, Southport QLD 4215

significant other. Their open space layout and outside eating area, allows for an amazing breeze and a great environment to relax and enjoy some healthy and delicious food.

RECOMMEND

Balsamic Tomato + Hummus Toast with a side of grilled mushrooms – the in house hummus is one of the best and most interesting versions of hummus I’ve had. It is bright yellow and has such a pleasant sweet taste to it.

AMBIENCE

If I could describe Blendlove in a few words, it would be beachy, rustic and pretty. Definitely a great place to meet up with friends and then later head down to the beach. Love the touch of the fake grass outside and the coloured stools.

PRICE

A little pricey in my opinion. Some breakfast and lunch items on average are $16 - $17, without any sides included. And normally you would get a drink ($4-10) or dessert ($8) with that as you can’t help but want to try everything!

Opening Hours:

Mon – Sat: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Closed Sunday

recommendations

65

V E G E TA R I A N

C A R D A M O N

P O D

Sout hport & Broadbeach, Gol d C oas t

The Cardamom Pod is a plant-based eatery based in the

PRICE

Gold Coast & Byron Bay. With a wide range of beautiful desserts, drink menu and hot food, it has become one of

Very pricy. Some dishes are well over $20 for a meal. I do think it is well worth it though, firstly because it is pretty much

the top places for vegetarians and vegans to dine at. Not

art on the plate and tastes amazing. It really opens your eyes

only does the food tastes amazing, but the environment

and tastebuds to how vegan food can be brought to life from

makes you want to keep coming back for more. The

basic raw ingredients.

Broadbeach venue – decked out with hard wood décor,

PA R K I N G

fancy rugs, sofas where your body just sinks into, allows for a great place to chillax, maybe do some writing or sip

Broadbeach – the closest parking to the Broadbeach venue

a delicious chai latte.

is street parking. You can either pay or park for free in the residential areas (which isn’t a far walk).

RECOMMEND

Brickworks – There is plenty of free parking right in front of the restaurant.

Brown Rice (Broadbeach) – Such a cool twist on brown rice.

Not only is it fluffy and chewy and nutty, but they cook it with

ADDRESS

shredded sweet potato. Adds such a sweet, but still savoury for a great compliment to any curry.

Southport

Chia Seed Pudding (Southport)– I literally died and went to

3/3 Brolga Avenue, Southport QLD 4215

heaven. It was so smooth and velvety. I could eat a whole bowl of it. It was a Chia Seed Pudding adventure of a lifetime

Opening Hours:

Breakfast Mon – Sun:

to say the least! They usually have a different type of Chia

7:30 AM – 11:31 AM

Pudding each time I go in. In a way I love it as I get to try a

Lunch Mon- Sun:

new one, but also wish I could eat the one I had before again

11:32 AM – 3:30 PM

because it was just so darn good.

Kitchen is closed past 3:30 PM, but is open until 5:30.

AMBIENCE

Desserts and drinks are still available.

Very tranquil and relaxing. Both venues have exempt taste in style, showcased in their furniture choices and colour palette.

You also have the option to sit in the sun and soak in some vitamin D. The environment really showcases the vibrant and tasty food well.

Broadbeach 1/2685-2689 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach QLD 4218

Opening Hours:

Mon – Sun: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM

recommendations

67

V E G A N F R I E N D LY

A L F R E D ’ S

D I N E R

M e rm a i d Beach, Gol d C oas t

Alfred’s Diner is a casual “just behind the white picket fence” backyard eatery that is famous for their hot dogs, burgers, burritos and breakfast menu items (mostly meat & dairy, but also has some great vegan options). A perfect place to bring your omni, vegetarian or vegan friends and family. The outdoor space is decked out with wooden picnic tables, cute plant pots, a shipping container and even a stand-alone coffee shop. With the pop of the green turf, it is a place that surfers, hipsters and local families, come and enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch. It is my go-to place to eat when I’m heading or coming straight from the beach.

RECOMMEND

Vegan hot dog – the taste of the hot dog is very pleasant,

PRICE

very similar to meat. I love how they drizzle heaps of mustard and tomato sauce on there for you. The bread is soft and

Average price ranges from $10-$14. Very affordable and the

fluffy on the inside, which I always look for. Extra brownie

portions run quite big.

points for that. The vegan hot dog fills you up and is of a reasonable price ($10).

PA R K I N G

Emma & Tom’s Juices & Smoothies – Thirsty or in need of a refreshing drink to go with your vegan meal? Alfred’s Diner

Plenty of free street and residential parking nearby.

has a variety of Emma & Tom’s juices and smoothies. Great compliment to down the vegan hot dog with!

ADDRESS

AMBIENCE

2389 Gold Coast Highway, Gold Coast, Queensland 4218.

Right by the beach, has a pleasant breeze. You can choose

Opening Hours:

Breakfast

to sit more in the shade (with the umbrellas above the picnic

6:30 AM – 11:30 AM

tables), or lounge on the “grass” in the sun. Everyone is super

Lunch

friendly and very chilled.

11:30 AM – 2:30 PM

recommendations

69

VEGAN

G R E E N H O U S E

C A N T E E N

+

B A R

M i a mi , Gol d C oas t

Opened in March 2016, Greenhouse Canteen + Bar is

PRICE

a complete plant-based restaurant and bar located in Miami on the Gold Coast. The restaurant has an amazing atmosphere (especially at night), lots of greenery and

Quite pricey. Mains average around $19.

PA R K I N G

even the bathroom is rather suave! Staff are always welcoming and friendly, making it such a chilled and

Plenty of free street nearby.

romantic environment to eat at.

ADDRESS RECOMMEND

The Pulled Jackfruit Enchilada is a beautiful piece of art, topped with fresh greens, drizzled with the most delicious Mexican cashew cheese sauce and sour cream.

AMBIENCE

Candlelit, has a very industrial meets rainforest feel about the interior. Again, such a big fan of the hanging plants and the scattered greenery around the restaurant.

1916 Gold Coast Hwy, Miami QLD 4220

Opening Hours:

Tue – Sat: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

recommendations

71

V E G A N F R I E N D LY

G R I F F I T H

U N I V E R S I T Y

S ou t h p ort, Gol d C oast

I’ve been going to Griffith (Gold Coast Campus) for 3 years and I’ve explored pretty much every single food related place on campus. Because what else do you do

amazing as well. Just ask for no cheese. It comes with fresh tomatoes, olives, pineapple, beetroot and sundried tomatoes.

They also have a daily pasta salad too, which sometimes can end up being dairy and meat free. Also, if you’re wanting

between breaks and not studying, you EAT! I thought it

a refreshing drink, order the juice (with all the ingredients

would be a good idea to share what vegan options they

added).

have for new or even existing students.

AMBIENCE RECOMMEND Very casual, they always have amazing music on. Whether it’s Providore has a huge array of raw desserts and raw balls.

some catchy song (that everyone starts dancing to), or have

Their cold pressed juices are one of the best! They also make

performances of people singing whilst on the guitar or piano.

acai bowls.

This is the Visual Arts Café after all (where I would mostly chill

Guzmen Y Gomez provides a great feed when you’re super hungry and want something warm and that will give you heaps of energy to power on through your studies. Get the sautéed vegetable burrito bowl with guac, just don’t forget to say no cheese!

Flavour Asia sells vegetable spring rolls (tofu, avo, vegetables and vermicelli).

Burger Urge has a few vegetarian burger options, just opt for

out), so mostly all the design and creative kids hang around this area (as most of our classes are in the G14 building).

PRICE

Smashed Avo $7.50, Acai Bowl $10, Acai Smoothie $9, Vegetarian Pizza $5.50 (for half, although still very big), Bowl of Chips $4.50, Side Winders $5.50, Wedges $5.50, Juice $6.50.

no cheese and be mindful of the sauces. Their chips are also one of the best.

PA R K I N G

G14 Visual Arts Café (top favourite) has a variety of vegan friendly options. You can get the smashed avo, the acai bowl,

Multi-story building parking for $6, parking at Southport Christ

the acai smoothie (which I think trumps the acai bowl. It is just

of Church $4, Parkwood residential parking (free 2 hours max,

so creamy and coconut-ie). If you’re looking for something

unless after 5pm on a weekday). Taking the tram is the best

crispy and fried, don’t hold back ordering from their chips

option in my opinion.

menu. But BEWARE as they literally give you the biggest bowl of them. I have not yet been able to finish a whole bowl

OPENING HOURS

myself. It’s best to share it with a friend, or friends so that you don’t get too sick! They have sweet potato fries, wedges, side

Providore (G07)

winders and their original chips. Personally my favourite are

Mon-Fri: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM

the wedges. Just ask for tomato sauce on the side.

Sat: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Their vegetarian pizza that can be made vegan, tastes

Burger Urge (G07)

Flavour Asia (G07)

Visual Arts Café (G14)

Open 7 days: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Open 7 days: 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM

Mon-Thu: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Fri: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

recommendations

73

V E G A N F R I E N D LY

D O M I N O S C hai n

Well known pizza chain that is located around the world.

Sells a variety of sides, pizzas and desserts.

RECOMMEND

If I’m ever craving some pizza, I opt for Domino’s $5 Spicy Vege Trio (from the value range) and I customise it. I remove the cheese and the chili flakes and add on the free basil drizzle and oregano (also free!). Such a bargain for a large vegan pizza. Tastes amazing and perfect to share with a friend. If you had other ingredients at home like pineapple, mushrooms, you could add that on top and pop it straight in the oven for a few minutes and you got yourself a beast meal!

AMBIENCE

Most Dominos shops don’t really have a dine in area, but

PA R K I N G

some like the one on Surfers Paradise Blvd, has a sick interior.

Has two levels and when it gets busy, there is someone

Depending on location. The Surfers Paradise location

standing with a hand held device taking your order. Staff is

has free/paid street parking nearby or take the tram for

great there as well. Another option is if you’re by the beach,

convenience.

get your pizza to go and eat by the pier (recommend the Broadwater Parklands in Southport), or bring a blanket and enjoy your pizza on the sand.

PRICE

Ridiculously cheap! Only $5.

OPENING HOURS

Depends on venue, but most Domino’s open at around 11:00 AM and close 11:00PM Monday – Friday. Weekends are open until late.

V E G A N F R I E N D LY

Z A M B E R O C hai n

Zambero is a Mexican with a mission: A healthy quick-service restaurant franchise that sells burritos, tacos, nachos and quesadillas, made with the freshest ingredients.

RECOMMEND

I love ordering the vegetarian bowl. Simply ask for no cheese.

Includes rice, pinto beans, salsas, cos lettuce and sauce. I recommend the Verde sauce (tasty, but beware, it is a tad spicy!). Be sure to have a cold beverage or water on you to down it with!

AMBIENCE

Zambero is usually located at malls, so you would eat in the food court. But there are some stand-alone restaurants like the one in Browns Plains, which has a great dine in interior.

PRICE

OPENING HOURS

Depending on venue.

Most are open 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.

Quite decently priced for the ingredients and the portion sizing. I always feel full after a meal at Zambero. The burrito bowl I get normally is just under $13. Depending if you want extra guac, salsa, it will cost a few dollars extra.

recommendations

75

V E G A N F R I E N D LY

G U Z M E N

Y

G O M E Z

C hai n

AMBIENCE

Mexican fast food chain. Serves burritos, tacos, nachos, quesadillas, salads, churros and Latin drinks.

Modern rustic. Very casual.

RECOMMEND

PRICE

Sautéed Vegetable Burrito Bowl with Guacamole. Just ask for

$11.50 for the Sautéed Vegetable Burrito Bowl with

no cheese. Also love how it comes with a couple of house-

Guacamole. Great price for such a filling meal. Love how it

made corn chips on the side! Adds amazing texture and a

doesn’t charge for extra for the guac.

little surprise with your burrito bowl. You can even order ahead online or download their app (which I have done in the past!). It’s so handy when it’s lunch time and it gets busy. You just walk up to the online order side and pick up your order instead of waiting in line. I have done this when working in Brisbane CBD, at the Post Office Square GYG.

V E G A N F R I E N D LY

B O O S T C hai n

Most popular juice bar in Australia, serving snacks,

AMBIENCE

juices, smoothies and crushers.

Vibrant, fresh and full of energy.

RECOMMEND

Everything from the green range is always good (Kinky Kale, Ginger Tonic, Mint Condition, Veggie Garden, Caribbean Green, Grape Escape). Hard to pick a favourite to be honest. I also sometimes opt to custom make my own juice.

PRICE

Prices are reasonable according to their size. Originals (largest size) run from $7-$9.

V E G A N F R I E N D LY

G R I L L’ D C hai n

Grill’d is a burger chain that are all about bringing the freshest and healthiest burgers to the public. Every time you purchase a meal, you receive a token in which you get to choose a charity to donate money to. Grill’d supports local organisations and gives money to those in need.

RECOMMEND

Grill’d at the moment holds two vegetarian burgers which can be made vegan, and one vegan burger. My favourite is the Garden Goodness (vegetarian). I take out the cheese and the mayo and it’s honestly one of the softest and yummiest burgers I’ve had! It’s all in the patty and the fresh ingredients that they use. I also recommend their Grill’d chips. They are thick-cut chips sprinkled with their signature herb mix. That with the Garden Goodness is my go-to meal. If you’re out with family and friends, also try the Chips Share Plate. It includes the

PRICE

original Grill’d Chips, the Sweet Potato Chips & The Zucchini Chips. You can ask for tomato sauce (free) as well. They give

The vegetarian/vegan burgers are one of the priciest on the

you a cute tomato shaped bottle when you dine in.

menu. I do think it is worth it as you will 100% feel full, probably even stuffed by the end of it (especially if you order a side of

AMBIENCE

chips). I like halving the burger and chips with a friend.

The interior is very industrial and rustic, decorated with plant

OPENING HOURS

pots and art. Usually loud from how busy the restaurant can get. Ideal for lunch with friends and family.

Depending on venue.

Most are open 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM.

recommendations

77

juice

78

juice

79

ADVENTURE

B U R L E I G H

H E A D S

Burleigh Heads is one of the most beautiful beaches

If you’re with your friends and up for a shop, walk

on the coast. Perfect for a day to night trip with

along James St. There are a lot of boutiques, candle

friends and family. You could have a picnic on the

and gift shops along that road. There is even a cute

grassy hill, grab an acai bowl or juice at the local

bakery towards the end and lots of bikini and surfing

shops, sun bathe, go for a surf or even just read a

shops as well.

book under a tree. When it gets darker, you could walk along the beach, grab dinner at the many

I recommend walking up the Burleigh hill. The view

restaurants along James St. There are even fire

at the top is breathtaking. There are two routes, one

performances on the grass and people playing the

to the top (with the lookout) and one that goes all the

drums throughout the week.

way across to Tallebudgera beach on the other side.

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81

ADVENTURE

TA L L E B U D G E R A

This is by far my favourite beach. It’s small, very

are very friendly. If you haven’t paddle boarded

tranquil and relaxing (when it isn’t too busy). When it is

before, they give you a quick demonstration on how to

low tide, there is a sand bank in the middle, between

get on the board, how to paddle and just some safety

the Burleigh hill side and the Tallebudgera side. Many

hazards along the beach.

people (and myself ) love swimming towards the middle and you literally just lay in the centre and float on the

The water is clear and you can see little fish swimming

sand bank, enjoying the sun. I also love swimming

around. It isn’t too hard to ease yourself into the water

back and forth between the two different sides.

as most of the time, the water towards the shore is quite warm, especially when there are a lot of people

There are also two vans that rent out paddleboards.

I have paddle boarded there three times. The people

around.

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83

ADVENTURE

C U R R U M B I N

If you’re looking for somewhere that is less populated,

jamming to old school songs as we made our way

head to Currumbin. There is the longest stretch of the

to the valley. There are two rock pools. The first one

most beautiful sand. The sunset here is amazing. You

is along the road and you won’t miss it as there are

can tan, swim, surf, even grab a bite at the Currumbin

always cars parked by the side of the road. The water

Beach Vikings Surf Life Saving Club. Also, connecting

is super cold and be careful, the rocks are VERY

to the club, there is a staircase to the famous “Elephant

slippery. Even in the summer, you will be shivering

Rock”. If you walk to the top, there is a 360-degree

getting into the water as the sun doesn’t really hit the

view of the whole beach. Would recommend to come

water (as it is shaded by trees). And if you follow that

here at sunset for breathtaking photos!

same road up, you will eventually reach the second one. The second one you will have to do a bit of

Just a couple minutes’ drive from here (more inland),

walking and climbing. There are various waterfalls

you can take a quick road trip to the Currumbin

further up. There is one where you can jump into and

Rock Pools. My friends and I had the windows down,

has a natural slide.

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85

ADVENTURE

F I T N E S S

BOUNCE & SKY ZONE

A C T I V I T I E S

and skate boarding. So it is great for beginners and more advanced jumpers.

If you’re into gymnastics, jumping or doing flips, head to Bounce or Sky Zone. They are the most popular indoor

INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING

trampoline parks in Australia. Not only that, it is great for cardio and getting your heart rate up. It doesn’t feel like you’re

Another activity I love doing is rock climbing. I have been to

working anything, but trust me, you might just be hurting the

the one in MacGregor in Brisbane (Crank Indoor Climbing).

next day. Perfect activity to do with friends. There are also

Once you get started and actually start climbing, it is actually

various games you can play in the park such as slam dunk

so much fun and you just keep wanting to do it again and

(basketball) and dodgeball. There are also sections such as

again. So good for working your whole body. After a few

the wall (for more experienced jumpers), the big bag (where

climbs, you start working up a sweat. There are also two table

you can do flips and tricks into a giant air bag. Foam pit for

tennis tables that you can play with if you wanted to take a

Sky Zone) and the performance area (where the springs are

break from rock climbing. Parkour boxes, bars and equipment,

maximised for flips). The performance trampolines area is often

as well as slacklining are available as well.

used by athletes such as skiing, snowboarding, wakeboarding

adventure

87

juice

88

namastĂŠ namastĂŠ (nah-mas-tay) (nah-mas-tay) My Mysoul soulhonours honoursyour yoursoul. soul.

I honour I honourthe theplace placeininyou youwhere where the theentire entireuniverse universeresides. resides.

I honour I honourthe thelight, light,love, love,truth, truth, beauty beauty& &peace peacewithin withinyou, you, because becauseit itis isalso alsowithin withinme. me.

InInsharing sharingthese thesethings things weweare areunited, united,weweare arethe thesame, same, weweare areone. one.

juice

89

H E A LT H & H A P P I N E S S

H E A LT H Y

B O D Y

I S

A

H A P P Y

B O D Y

There are three things that I have come across, that when

Another thing that is just as important as the foods you put in

practiced together, really helps to rejuvenate and jumpstart

your mouth, is the amount of water you drink a day. One of

your health. It isn’t about a quick fix, but a change of lifestyle

my biggest tips is drinking 1.5 litres of water the moment you

and being consistent. Motivation is easy, but discipline is what

wake up. When you wake up after a long sleep, your body is

will give you the long term results.

naturally dehydrated. You need to refill the tank and rehydrate your cells. Doing this will help you feel more refreshed, have

The first one has to be your diet. You can workout for so and

more energy in the morning and overall, you will just feel

so hours, night and day, but if you don’t have a solid diet, you

healthier and happier. Eventually it will become part of your

will never fully feel your best. I truly believe the foods you put

routine like brushing your teeth. It will help flush out toxins

in your body can affect other major key factors in your life.

and fuel your brain for the day.

This includes your mood, the way you think, your positivity and of course the way you feel. But not only that, others can

The second thing that aides immensely when feeling your

feel it through the vibrations and energy your body exerts

best is getting some sun. Sunshine boosts levels of serotonin

from nourishing your body with whole foods. This can lead to

in our body (the body’s natural happy hormone). That is why

healthy, glowing skin and a happy attitude towards life.

we tend to feel happier and more energetic when the sun shines. If you think about it, without sunlight, life on Earth

Fuelling your body with as much plant based foods – fruits,

would not exist. Every organism that has evolved on the

vegetables, grains, potatoes, beans, rice, that has not been

surface of this planet has received energy either directly or

processed, will benefit you in more ways than one. Firstly,

indirectly from the sun. Like other organisms, we thrive with

your mind will feel clearer, you will be able to think better, feel

the help of the sun.

lighter, and your body is going to love you for it. You won’t have digestion problems, stomach aches or feel bloated.

We are mostly always cooped up inside, hunched over, typing away at our computers. Make sure you make time to run

Another major reason why I follow a plant based diet is the

around outside, even take a walk, go for a hike for a couple

fact that cancer cells and diseases can’t thrive in an alkaline

of times a week. Being exposed to sunlight for at least 15-20

environment. The more you fuel yourself with foods that are

mins a day will help immensely with your energy levels and

natural to the Earth (less processed foods), it makes it harder

receiving your daily intake of vitamin D.

for diseases to form as alkaline foods have a high PH level.

Acidic substances such as meat, diary, sweets, sugary drinks,

Last but not least, exercising. There are so many reasons

oil will lower your PH levels and you will have a higher chance

why this is one of top cures for basically everything. Many

of getting sick.

studies show that people who exercise regularly benefit with a positive boost in mood and have lower rates of depression.

People assume that eating healthy equates to just a plain

When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called

salad in a bowl. You can still eat everything you love,

endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in

pizza, pasta, donuts, etc. All you have to do is substitute

your brain that reduce your perception of pain. Endorphins

the unhealthy and fattening ingredients, with healthier

also trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of

alternatives. Once you start practicing this – learning how to

morphine. This will help release any stress or anxiety you may

cook with wholefoods, it is easy to recreate all your favourite

have.

meals without the extra fat and sugar content.

With that, probably the most known benefit of exercising is

up so much easier. I don’t wake up in the middle of the night

reducing the risk of many diseases. Exercising will help get

and toss and turn for hours like I would couple years ago.

the blood flowing and maintains healthy muscles, bones and

The combination of a healthy plant-based diet, exposure to

joints. There are just so many benefits to exercising, I could

sun and daily exercise, I believe that is the formula and cure

go on and on, but another huge improvement when I compare

to many diseases. From mental to physical, it is the most

how I feel when I don’t exercise, to when I exercise regularly,

natural and long-term beneficial way to regain your happiness

is my quality of sleep. It has made falling asleep and waking

and your wellbeing.

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H E A LT H & H A P P I N E S S

N AT U R A L

B E A U T Y

I S

T H E

B E S T

B E A U T Y

A c hi e vi ng that J- Lo Gl ow

I don’t know about you, but for me, the most attractive thing

this a few times a week, or even daily and your skin will be

(physically) I admire about others is their glow. You don’t need

glowing in no time!

harsh chemicals or tons of time to get shiny, healthy hair and smoother skin. No matter how much makeup you manage to

So you’re eating healthy, consuming copious amounts of

put on, having a good base (good, clear and glowing skin), is

water (you’re a peeing machine), what else can we do? There

what will make a difference. I believe if you combine healthy

are two things that I believe to be super helpful. The first

eating and using natural and organic products on the outside,

one is taking advantage of Aloe Vera. Now run to your local

this will achieve the best results. Obviously you can do one

Bunnings and purchase yourself an Aloe Vera plant (unless

or the other, but with both combined, your skin will be looking

you have some growing in your backyard already).

the best it ever has.

Aloe Vera has been used for a host of purposes since the Firstly, the most important thing that will bring out that glow

ancient Egyptians called it the “Plant of Immortality”. It is

from the inside is the amount of water you are drinking.

mostly known for healing wounds and soothing skin. What

Drinking from 3-5 litres of water a day, depending if you

people don’t know is that it also can be used to treat acne,

exercise or not (water intake should be higher if you exercise

aids in digestion and contains 75 different nutrients (vitamins,

and sweat) will help flush out any toxins from your body, thus

minerals, enzymes, amino acids, etc.) and lessens the visibility

keeping your skin clear.

of stretch marks.

Another factor to consider is the amount of fats, refined

So what do I do with it? I put it on my face. Literally. Start

sugar and sodium you consume each day. This also goes with

peeling off the skin and it will reveal a clear, gel type

meat and dairy. Meat and dairy are filled with hormones and

consistency on the inside. With your fingers (make sure they

antibiotics that can lead to acne and breakouts. When you

are clean, washed with disinfectant soap), start slopping on

start eliminating them from your diet, you will soon notice your

the clear gel onto your face. You will look ridiculous, but it will

skin clearing up.

be worth it in the long run. Now just go about your day, make food, watch a TV show or read a book (I don’t recommend

Also, if you’re wanting to speed up the process even more,

going out with it though! Haha). Then with warm water, wash

start consuming some vegetable juice. I recommend a carrot,

it off after 20-30 minutes (or when it starts drying and getting

beet, ginger and lemon juice. Carrots are packed with an

super tight). Do this as many times a week as possible and

insane amount of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene. Beta-

you will see a tremendous change in your skin.

carotene is a powerful antioxidant that prevents cells from degenerating, helps to slow aging and maintain a youthful

Tip: Cut off a few Aloe Vera leaves and pop it in a zip lock bag

appearance. Beets are blood and liver cleaners, and when

and leave it in your fridge for a few hours before putting it on

curing skin conditions, cleansing the blood is key. They are

your face. This will leave a cool feeling when you later put it

anti-inflammatory veggies that are rich in iron, potassium,

on your face (great for summer!).

niacin, copper and vitamin C. Also adding in some ginger will help with the redness (help reduce inflammation). And to top

One time I burnt the right side of my face with my hair

it off, lemon will help to purify the blood, cleanse the kidneys

curler and it left a 2 centimetre burn mark on cheek. I was

and assisting in eliminating the toxins from your body. Drink

devastated, but remembered that we had Aloe Vera growing

in our backyard. I quickly ran outside and proceeded to slather

as raw and unrefined as you can get it, making sure no added

it all over the mark. Within 3-4 days, the burn mark was gone! I

chemicals were used in the process. Now what I do before I

was amazed at how a plant could heal my face so fast when so

go to sleep (after cleansing my face and applying moisturiser),

many other products out there would cost a ridiculous amount

I put on a thin layer of coconut oil onto my face.

of money and would just end up drying out my skin.

Coconut oil contains antibacterial, antifungal properties that Another thing you can do if you want to get creative, is putting

help kill off harmful bacteria for acne-free skin. It is filled

the Aloe Vera in drinks! You can blend up some Aloe Vera with

with saturated fats, keeping the skin healthy and smooth,

coconut water and you will have a superfood drink right there!

evening out your skin tone and reduces the appearance of

They actually sell this in Asian countries (as I actually grew up

pores. It also has a high content in vitamin E that will help with

with them in Malaysia). You can visit any Asian Grocer and they

premature aging and the wrinkling of the skin. Now doesn’t

should sell it. But it is packed with artificial sweeteners and

that sound cheaper and more beneficial than most products

preservatives, so I wouldn’t recommend it, but it’s something a

out on the market?vYou buy one jar (around $10) and it will last

lot of people don’t know about (that it is edible!).

you for months, even a few years. You can even split it, half for cooking, half for your skin. And if you’re needing to exfoliate,

One last thing that I highly recommend is purchasing a high

just mix some coconut oil with some sugar or salt and there is

quality jar of “virgin” or “extra-virgin” coconut oil. You want it

your homemade facial or body scrub!

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H E A LT H & H A P P I N E S S

K E E P I N G

M O T I VAT E D

One thing that has been a huge trend in the last couple of

Bonny Rebecca – Daily vlogs (travelling) and follows a vegan

years as alternatives to reading books are watching YouTube

lifestyle with her boyfriend Tim.

videos and listening to Audio Books or Podcasts. For me, what

My Favourites: Top 6 Vegan Restaurants in LA, Veggie Grill

has been my biggest source of inspiration and expanding my

Mukbang – Vegan Fast Food + Q&A, Last Day In LA – 5

knowledge, is through YouTube. Not only can you search up

Course Vegan Dinner.

a DIY (Do It Yourself ) or tutorial on basically anything, but we are lucky enough in this day in age to have access to so much information through a click of a button.

Maximiliane Hansen – Vegan, What I Ate Today (vegan style), Vlogs, Fashion, Makeup, Skin & Haircare, Boho

What better way to stay motivated, inspired and to learn more by watching a range of videos on healthy eating, fitness,

Fully Raw Kristina – Amazing Raw Vegan Recipes ( juices,

mental health, spirituality and of course the added prank/

smoothies, salads, sauces, noodles), Answers a lot of Vegan

humour videos that we all binge watch.

questions (changes of hair, skin, eyes, anti-aging, etc).

I recommend flooding your YouTube subscription feed with as many videos as possible that will help you achieve your goals, lead you in the right direction and even teach you a thing or two about something you are passionate about. I have learnt so much through YouTube from perfecting my form when

Brian Turner – Vegan Body Builder, Fitness Tips, Recipes, Vegan Taste Tests, Vegan Challenges (banana challenge, vegan donut challenge, 10,000 calorie vegan chipotle challenge, raw broccoli challenge).

training with weights, to being inspired by the many creative vegan recipes or even walking away with an even more

Tone It UP – Online fitness duo that empowers women

positive attitude towards life after watching a motivational

around the world to live a healthier lifestyle. Their YouTube

video. Below are just a few of the many YouTubers I follow

channel has a lot of recipes and workout routines (arms, legs,

that I love watching.

abs, glutes, yoga, girl talk, bikini body challenges). They also sell workout DVDs, workout clothes, swimwear and hold

YOUTUBERS

retreats. Their style is very boho and about getting that bikini body.

Jake Ducey – Author, Entrepreneur, Motivational Speaker My Favourites: Fear is an Illusion, The 2 Things The Law of Attraction Didn’t Teach You, How To Increase Your Confidence, How To Take Your Life To The Next Level.

Annie Tarasova – Vegan, has the best What I Eat In A Day videos (super vibrant, healthy and tasty). She has heaps of recipes and vlogs that showcase vegan restaurants, vegan comfort foods. There are also a lot of videos with

Mr & Mrs Vegan – What We Eat in a Day, Vegan Recipes,

her travelling, also talking about interesting topics (lucid

Exploring the Best Vegan Restaurants in America

dreaming, naturopathy, meditation, moon energy, law of

My Favourites: What A Presidential Candidate Eats In A Day,

attraction, sleep paralysis, etc.)

World’s Largest Vegan Pizza (Record Breaking), How to Make Vegan Friends.

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adventure

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H E A LT H & H A P P I N E S S

P R O D U C T I V I T Y

AT

I T ’ S

B E S T

There are two things that work together. One – motivation,

drawing a line through the middle of something that

second – productivity. They are both key in being successful

seemed so hard and far-fetched in the beginning. This

when wanting to achieve your goals. The motivation part is

then motivates you to continue to meet the rest of your

easy, we want that hot bikini body, we want to lose so and so

goals and to carry it through the rest of the week.

kilos, we want to be able to run a marathon or even start your own business. These are all goals, all words. You know what

5.

drawing up a timeline. Write your goal at the top of a

makes them reality? Actions. Actually making steps to achieve

piece of paper and plan out smaller goals. Make sure

your goals. And how do you do this you ask? Like how this

they are achievable. Whether they are daily, weekly or

wise man once said, “You will be successful when you want it

monthly goals that will lead to your final goal.

as much as breathing” – Eric Thomas. A little extreme, but a great analogy. When you’re willing to sacrifice your time and

Another thing I find super important is planning or

6.

Reward yourself with things that will help you in the long

sleep to put in the hard work to achieve your goals, that is

term, not short term. For example, going on a retreat

when you will start making progress.

will help you relax, keep your stress levels down and you will feel more centred and ready to get back to

So you’re making steps towards your goals, but you’re maybe

work. Or treating yourself to a massage than spending

going at a slower rate than you had hoped? Here are some

that money on junk food. Keeping that positive energy

tips that I have found helpful when needing to get things done

flowing and constantly exposing yourself to things that

efficiently.

make you feel good, will eventually turn into your daily routine. And that’s what you want. You want to practice it

1.

What you fuel your body with, is what your body runs

to the point where you don’t think twice about investing

on. So nourish your body with essential nutrients and

in yourself.

vitamins (alkalising whole foods) to help your brain function and think at its best.

2.

Switch on the “Airplane” mode or the “Do Not Disturb” mode on your phone. This will allow you really focus and to not get distracted by someone messaging you or receiving a notification. You will notice a huge difference in the amount of things you can get done and the creative flow starting when there are no interruptions.

3.

Every couple of hours (1-2), stand up and do some quick jumping jacks, jump squats and even some stretching if you have been sitting at a desk for a long time. This will help energise and get your blood flowing.

4.

Write down a list of goals you want to achieve in a day and cross each of them out after accomplishing each thing. There’s something so satisfying about physically

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GO AL SE T TI NG t o t he N OW SOMEDAY GOAL What’s the ONE Thing I want to do someday?

FIVE-YEAR GOAL Based on my Someday Goal, what’s the ONE Thing I can do in the next five year?

ONE-YEAR GOAL Based on my Five-Year Goal, what’s the ONE Thing I can do this year?

MONTHLY GOAL Based on my One-Year Goal, what’s the ONE Thing I can do this month?

WEEKLY GOAL Based on my Monthly Goal, what’s the ONE Thing I can do this week?

Daily GOAL Based on my Weekly Goal, what’s the ONE Thing I can do today?

RIGHT NOW Based on my Daily Goal, what’s the ONE Thing I can do right now?

H E A LT H & H A P P I N E S S

R U L E

Y O U R

M I N D

O R

I T

W I L L

R U L E

Y O U

A lot of people these days’ focus on their physical

Not only that, but our minds are also affected by how we

appearance; purchasing new clothes, what new makeup

feel. What we eat is going to dictate if you feel good or

product to buy, losing weight, etc. But what we tend to forget

bad. Nourishing whole foods once again is the winner here.

to work on is our mental health – our thoughts. Having a

Ditch coffee and liquids that are high in caffeine. They might

strong mind and a positive mind at that, has to be one of the

give you a quick boost in the morning, but isn’t long lasting.

most powerful ways to unlock our potential. Easier said than

Caffeine can cloud your thinking and can aid to feeling

done right? We have doubts, fear and that little voice inside of

stressed and anxious. Instead, let’s substitute that with daily

us overanalysing and overthinking situations.

exercise and adequate sleep!

I love this quote, “It will not be power, influence or the money

Another thing that plays a huge part in a healthy and strong

in your pocket that will help you create a fulfilling life. It will

mind is having self-discipline and self-control. Delaying short

be your strong mindset”.

term gratification for long term happiness is paramount for success in so many areas of life. Ask any successful person in

A strong mindset requires us to have powerful, vibrant and

any field if success was truly ‘overnight’.

encouraging thoughts that are created by the self. We need to proactively choose to feed our minds everyday with the

Here are some quick tips that I have practiced myself to

thoughts and emotion attached to it, to be in the state of

achieve a healthier mindset.

mind we wish to ascertain. If you want to be productive, then you need to give your mind the freedom from distractions by

1.

Eliminate any negative people - people who put you

feeding nurturing ideas and giving commands that will make

down, who doubt and laugh at your goals and dreams.

your body move towards doing the work. If we don’t choose

The only person that you need to believe in is yourself.

the thoughts we want, we will find ourselves reacting to those

If you have a goal in mind and you are truly passionate

thoughts fed by others, those around us, the media and the

about it, you make that happen!

overthinking mind.

2.

encourage and boost your motivation.

Instead of saying, “I can’t” or “That’s too hard”, start replacing that with “Yes I can do this” and “I will do my best”. After

Only follow your friends, family and pages that

3.

It’s all about your reaction. In a bad situation, you can

practicing this for a couple of weeks, you will see a huge

choose to react in two ways. Negatively or you can train

difference in your mood, your positivity and you will actually

your mind to see the good and the positives in things

start receiving better results.

that did not work out. Every experience, good or bad, will teach you a lesson.

A strong mindset requires a healthy physical body. What does this mean? Do you ever find yourself slouching over, feeling a bit shy or intimidated by someone? Body language and posture makes a huge difference to our confidence and the way others perceive us as well. Stand up straight, shoulders back and remember to breathe. Breathing is important. Allow fresh air to enter your body, feeding your brain rich nutrients filled with possibilities.

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ENJOY YOUR SUMMER. with love, Brenda.

LIVIN'

LA

VIDA

LOCA

A book about nourishing your mind, body & soul. Jam-packed with plant-based recipes, recommendations of restaurants, beaches & outdoor adventures in Brisbane & Gold Coast. Perfect for the ultimate foodie and explorer. This book combines trendy, hipster go-to places, inspiration for your summer travels, including tips & tricks to staying healthy & happy.