It's not often that your local area grabs the headlines, and when it's in a positive light, it's a great feeling.
So when Strathbungo was named in the Sunday Times best places to live guide, it made me so glad to see it getting the praise it deserves.
This small but bustling gem in the south side of Glasgow is really having its moment in the sun. In September last year, it was also named as the coolest neighbourhood in Scotland and one of the hippest in the world by the experts at Time Out.
READ MORE: The best places to eat and drink in Strathbungo as spot named one of best places to live
The experts visited each individual place on the list and made decisions based not just on house prices, schools or famous residents, but culture, the state of the high street and access to green spaces.
As a Strathbungo resident, I can confirm it's my favourite place I've ever lived in Glasgow. It's a compact area- tucked close to Queen's Park and Govanhill - yet overflowing with superb amenities, exciting events, breathtaking scenery and extraordinary architecture that constantly presents something new to explore.
The thriving cafe culture on the south side is a big draw, especially on Sunday mornings. Burnfield Bakery on Pollokshaws Road is a standout, its window always filled with tempting Viennoiserie-style pastries like cinnamon buns and babkas - perfect companions for your coffee as you wander around.
Pollokshaws Road is also home to Gusto and Relish, 721 Hinba, Grain and Grind, and Sunnyacre - all excellent options for your morning caffeine and pastry fix.
If you're looking for something more substantial later in the day, there's no shortage of eateries. The Bungo is a snug spot perfect for a meal or a few drinks, and it's also a great place for people-watching.
Japanese cuisine enthusiasts should make a beeline for Wasabi. With sushi, katsu curry, and ramen among the delicious dishes on the menu, plus several matcha flavours - the drink of the moment - it's a must-visit.
And Little Hoi An, a fantastic Vietnamese restaurant tucked away on Allison Street, is so worth a visit if you're craving a warming bowl of pho or some noodle
While the area might not have as many late-night bars as the city centre - one of the few drawbacks of living here, in my opinion - there are still plenty of superb places to spend an evening. From the Allison Arms to Koelschip Yard, cosy bars are plentiful here, so you'll never run out of new spots to explore.
The Rum Shack is a top choice if you fancy a dance, hosting DJs from around the world and playing a diverse range of music that perfectly captures the community spirit of Strathbungo.
Marchtown's stunning interior is the perfect place to sit and people-watch while sipping a glass of orange wine, and I can't wait until it gets warm enough to sit outside.
Strathbungo in spring is just stunning, and it's lovely to see so many people out strolling now that the weather has started to get a little better.
If you're in the mood for some shopping, be sure to check out the Cooperage - a hidden treasure trove of shops nestled away from the main street. Some Great Reward is a must-visit for vinyl lovers, while Seamstress Vintage offers a unique range of clothing that you won't find in your typical shop.
The area is rich in charity shops, and Category Is Books stands out as an exceptional independent queer bookstore. They host regular readings and events and even provide a book delivery service.
While Strathbungo may not carry the same prestige as certain areas in Glasgow's west or south, it radiates a strong sense of character and has so much to offer. It's no surprise that it's been hailed as one of the best places to live in the UK.
Over in Shawlands, there are plans underway to build flats on the site of the shopping arcade, leaving many locals puzzled and questioning the effect on local property prices.
Meanwhile, Strathbungo maintains its charm and more affordable housing options, although these prices are quickly rising.
With excellent transport connections to the city centre, plenty of parking, and the enticing prospect of a flat white and almond croissant always within reach, what's not to love?
