Turning 50 feels… complicated.
For years I’ve always said age is just a number, and part of me still believes that. Growing older is a privilege—not everyone gets the chance. But if I’m completely honest, hitting 50 stirred something deeper. It felt like a line in the sand. A moment where I’ve become more aware that youth is behind me, and time feels like it’s moving faster than ever.
So when my cousin Michelle surprised me with an overnight trip to London to celebrate, I didn’t just feel excited—I felt incredibly grateful.
What I didn’t realise at the time was just how much I needed it.
Staying at The Gantry London Curio Collection by Hilton – A Hidden Gem in Stratford
From the moment we stepped out of Stratford DLR station, I was impressed.
The Gantry Hotel is literally a stone’s throw away, and you can’t miss it. The architecture alone is striking—modern, bold, and instantly gives that this is going to be special feeling.
Inside, it’s everything I love: a luxury industrial vibe with thoughtful design details throughout.
Our room was beautiful—spacious with gorgeous blue panelling, large twin beds, plenty of wardrobe space, and a stunning bathroom with a huge walk-in shower. I remember standing there thinking how lucky I felt.
One of my favourite little details? Looking out of the window and seeing just how close we were to everything.
Breakfast the next morning was just as impressive. A relaxed buffet with plenty of choice, plus the option to have eggs cooked exactly how you like them. We also discovered the rooftop bar—light-filled, stylish, and the perfect spot to unwind.
Would I recommend it for a milestone birthday?
Without hesitation—yes. It felt special without being pretentious, and perfectly placed for a London getaway.
Shopping at Westfield Stratford City – The Perfect Birthday Treat
I’ve always loved Westfield, and this trip reminded me why.
Spread across three floors, it has pretty much every shop you could think of. It actually reminded me of the Bullring in Birmingham—but bigger.
We visited on a Thursday and Friday, which turned out to be perfect timing. It was busy enough to feel lively, but not so crowded that it became stressful. We could wander freely, browse at our own pace, and queues were short.
I treated myself (as you should on your birthday!) to:
- New flatback earrings for my second piercings
- A few clothing pieces
- And most importantly… a beautiful lunch
We ate at ASK Italian, which turned into such a special moment. The staff were incredible—Michelle had asked if they could add candles to my dessert, and they actually popped out to buy some especially.
It’s those little touches that stay with you.
And the dessert? A lemon deconstructed cheesecake that I can confidently say is now my new favourite dessert.
ABBA Voyage – Truly Mind-Blowing
I made a conscious decision not to look anything up beforehand about Abba Voyage —and I’m so glad I did.
Arriving at the purpose-built arena was an experience in itself. Set against a bright blue evening sky, it felt exciting before we’d even stepped inside.
Everything ran like clockwork:
- Tickets checked
- Security done
- Entry completed within minutes
Inside, it was electric. Rainbow lighting, wooden ceilings, a buzzing bar area—it all added to the anticipation.
We were seated by 7:30pm, and I remember just sitting there taking it all in. The huge space, the dancefloor, the woodland visuals on screen… even the tiny details like a squirrel darting through the trees.
Then the show started.
And honestly? It completely blew me away.
It genuinely looked like ABBA were right there on stage. It’s hard to explain without seeing it—it’s almost a mind-boggler.
Favourite moments:
- Fernando (pure goosebumps)
- Voulez-Vous (impossible not to move to)
I would go again in a heartbeat.
Top tip:
- Want to dance all night? Book the dance floor
- Prefer a mix of sitting and dancing? Seated tickets work perfectly
The Moments That Mattered Most
For all the incredible experiences, my favourite part of the trip was actually the simplest one.
Talking.
Non-stop chatting with Michelle, putting the world to rights, laughing until we cried—those are the moments that made it unforgettable.
Everything went smoothly (which never happens with UK travel!), and despite the usual train and underground issues, our journey was stress-free.
By the time I headed home, I felt like I’d been away for days—not just one night.
Relaxed. Reset. And ready to come back to my family, full of stories to tell.
Reflections on Turning 50
This trip didn’t magically erase my mixed feelings about turning 50.
But it did something better.
It reminded me that life isn’t slowing down—it’s just changing. And maybe, just maybe, the next chapter isn’t something to dread… but something to embrace.
If this is what 50 looks like—laughter, connection, new experiences—then I think I’m ready for it.