My nine things

What I packed for Pride

AS HE PREPARES FOR A WEEKEND TO REMEMBER,
@FRESHANDFEARLESS TRAVEL BLOGGER, AND HILTON’S PRIDE SQUAD LONDON HOST, AFTAB PATHAN SHARES HIS NINE ESSENTIAL ITEMS TO PACK FOR PRIDE IN LONDON

1. Pride T-shirt

Is it even Pride without a slogan-led T-shirt that screams empowerment? I commissioned the design of this year’s Hilton Pride T-shirt and I’m super happy to be able to wear it in the Pride in London parade.

2. Glitter

It’s the one day in the year that you can bet I’ll have glitter in reserve. Why? A glitter beard of course – it’s a nice way to add some sparkle and pizzazz. After all, it’s Pride!

3. A whistle

It’s all about making sure you’re loud and proud. As people march past in the parade, you’ll find everyone cheering and making a hell of a lot of noise. Whistles are a must, especially if you intend to keep your voice for the after-parties.

4. White trainers

With a touch of Pride in the form of rainbow laces – as a person who loves to accessorise, it’s one of those ways of adding an extra layer to your outfit and against the white, it really allows the Pride flag colours to POP!

5. Refillable water bottle:

Nothing like a bit of H2O to keep you hydrated in between chanting, sipping an ice-cold alcoholic beverage, and making shapes in the sun.

6. A rainbow bag 

Whether it be a string bag or tote – it can hold all the goodies you’ve received throughout the day. It also enables you to carry essentials whilst keeping your hands free.

6. A rainbow bag 

Whether it be a string bag or tote – it can hold all the goodies you’ve received throughout the day. It also enables you to carry essentials whilst keeping your hands free.

7. A sequin jacket

After all the sun and fun comes the after-party. In Aftab’s world, that’s a reason to get on the metaphorical catwalk and bring your best “fit” for the world to see.

8. Sunglasses

Even in London we have to plan for sunshine in July. I’m always a fan of the classic Aviator to add a stylish finishing touch to any outfit.

9. Skincare essentials:

Looking fresh is a must! SPF and two cleansers to double-cleanse. When you’re out in the sun all day long, SPF is essential to keep your skin safe. 

Double-cleanse before getting ready for the after-parties – start with a balm cleanser to remove all the dirt, sweat and glitter and then following with a cream cleanser to gently clean the skin itself. Voilà!

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Aftab’s hotel of choice for Pride in London is The Trafalgar St James, Curio Collection by Hilton.

“For me, there really is no other choice! It’s right in the middle of the action, I can’t think of anywhere better. Breakfast in the hotel at Rockwell is always lovely; poached eggs on toast and a café latte, surround by the botanical décor, what’s not to like? And knowing that the day of Pride itself is going to be crazy, I’ll take some time out to wander across the road to the National Gallery – it goes without saying that the art is mind-blowing, and it’s such a surprisingly peaceful place.”

“I’m looking forward to celebrating a momentous occasion in history—
50 years of Pride in London – and showing solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community in the hope that we can continue to move forward to an era of acceptance. After all, love is love.”

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