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Ready, Steady, Pedal: How To Prepare Physically & Mentally For A Marathon Bike Ride

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Ready, Steady, Pedal: How To Prepare Physically & Mentally For A Marathon Bike Ride
Ideal for ensuring that you’re ready for your 100 mile ride…

If you’re an avid cyclist considering taking on a marathon bike ride, you’re in for an exhilarating journey. An endurance event such as this requires not only physical preparedness but also mental strength, regardless of whether it’s charity bike rides or competitive events you’re participating in. To help you reach the finish line in one piece, here is your guide on how to prepare physically and mentally for a marathon bike ride.

Physical Preparation: Balanced Training & Nutrition

The cornerstone of preparing for a marathon bike ride is consistent, balanced training. It is crucial to pace yourself and gradually build up your stamina rather than cranking up the intensity too soon.

Begin with a Baseline: Determine your current level of fitness to identify strengths and areas of improvement. Begin by cycling shorter distances at a comfortable pace, gradually increasing your mileage.

Increase Endurance: Start lengthening the time spent in the saddle. The key is pushing yourself to achieve longer distances yet at a manageable pace.

Strengthen Core Muscles: Regular strength training, especially for your legs and core, will provide additional power and help prevent injury. Incorporate exercises like squats, lunges, planks, and push-ups into your routine.

Flexibility and Balance: Cycling is known for building strong leg muscles but can also lead to muscular tightness. Regular stretching and activities like yoga can help improve flexibility and balance.

Nutrition: Fuel your body with a balanced diet. Carbohydrates are essential for maintaining energy during long rides, while protein assists with muscle recovery. Hydration shouldn’t be underestimated, either—maintain a regular intake of fluids during your training and the event.

Read: The best cycling holidays in the Scottish Highlands

Mental Prep: The Power Of The Mind

Physical training is one half of the equation; the other is mental resilience. As much as the body, the mind also needs to be conditioned to handle the challenges of a marathon bike ride.

Visualisation: Visualise your ride. Imagine yourself navigating the route, tackling hills, and crossing the finish line. Making the race familiar to your mind can help reduce anxiety and boost confidence.

Setting Goals: Break down the marathon into smaller, achievable goals. Instead of focusing on the daunting total distance, concentrate on reaching the next checkpoint. This approach will make the task seem more manageable and increase your motivation.

Mental Toughness: There’ll be moments when exhaustion, muscle soreness or the sheer length of the ride will make quitting seem enticing. Develop a mantra or a positive affirmation to help you combat negative thoughts and maintain your focus.

Relaxation Techniques: Stress can adversely impact performance, so mastering relaxation techniques can be incredibly beneficial. Methods like deep breathing, practising yoga or listening to calming music can help manage pre-marathon nerves.

The Day Before The Event

The day before your marathon bike ride is a mix of anticipation and final preparations. Here’s how to make the most of it and set yourself up for success.

Rest and Relax: It’s essential to let your body recuperate from the weeks or even months of training. Try to have a slow-paced, relaxing day. Keeping stress at bay is key as feeling anxious can unnecessarily consume energy you’ll want to reserve for the race.

Carb-Load: This is the time to fill your glycogen stores for sustained energy during the race. Consume meals rich in carbohydrates, like pasta or rice dishes to keep you fuelled up. Don’t forget to hydrate well, but avoid over drinking to strike the right balance.

Double-Check Your Gear: Make sure your bike is in top-notch condition. Check your tires, brakes, and gears. Pack your helmet, cycling attire, water bottles, and any necessary repair tools. Don’t forget to include energy bars or gels for during the race.

Plan Your Route: If you’re travelling to the start line, plan your journey to ensure you’ll reach on time. Check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

Visualisation: It’s a point that bears repeating, and that is the importance of spending some quiet time mentally rehearsing the event. You may go through all parts of the race, envision the milestones and picture yourself crossing the finish line. This can help reinforce your self-belief and readiness for the race.

Early Turn-in: Aim for an early night to ensure a full night’s sleep. You want to wake up feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on your marathon bike ride.

On the day before the event, it’s all about preparing the stage for your big ride. By focusing on rest, nutrition, gear, and mental prep, you can approach the starting line feeling confident and ready to pedal your way to the finish.

Read: 5 of Europe’s best cycling trips

Photo by Karolina Grabowska: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-repairing-bike-at-home-6334127/

The Morning Of The Event

The morning of your marathon bike ride has finally arrived. Here’s how to start your day on the right pedal.

Awake Early: By waking up early, you can avoid feeling rushed and allow time for your body and mind to fully wake up. Remember, a calm start to your day can help set the tone for the rest of your ride.

Breakfast is Essential: Fuel up with a high-carbohydrate, low-fat meal around 3 hours before the start. Porridge with fruits, a bagel or toast with some honey or jam are good options – they provide energy yet are easy to digest.

Hydrate: Begin sipping on water or an electrolyte drink. But be wary of overhydrating, you want to find a balance that helps keep you hydrated without the need for frequent pit stops.

Warm-up: Incorporate a gentle warm-up to wake your muscles up – a short walk, some light stretching, or even a short, easy ride. This will help to increase your body’s temperature and heart rate and prepare your body for the ride.

Final Bike and Kit Check: Do one last check of your bike and your gear. Ensure your tyres are properly inflated, your water bottles are filled, your helmet is secured, and your nutrition is packed.

Harness the Energy: Absorb the atmosphere of the event and take a few moments of quiet reflection. Look around at your fellow riders, the crowd, the landscape, and take it all in. You’ve trained long and hard for this moment.

Stay Loose and Positive: Keep encouraging thoughts at the forefront. You’ve put in the work, you’ve made it to the start line – now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labours. Remember your training, trust your strategy and most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the ride.

The morning of the event is all about the culmination of your preparation. With the right fuel, gear, mindset and by harnessing the energy of the event, you’re more than ready to conquer the marathon bike ride. Pedal on!

The Bottom Line 

Preparing for a big cycling challenge – whether a competitive race, charity ride or leg of a biking holiday – is as much a journey of the mind as it is of the body. Your physical training must be balanced with mental resilience to truly conquer the marathon. Remember, everyone’s journey is different—listen to your body, pace yourself, and most importantly, enjoy the ride. Happy cycling!

7 Itinerary Ideas For Your Luxury Holiday To Dubai To 2024

Editorial Team
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7 Itinerary Ideas For Your Luxury Holiday To Dubai To 2024
Ideal for an opulent, exclusive time in the so-called City of Gold…

Dubai’s rise in the mind of UK holidaymakers shows no signs of slowing. Indeed, British visitors to the self-styled City of Gold topped a million in the first half of 2023, according to Global Media Insight.

It’s easy to see why. With its powdery white sand, luxury shopping opportunities, the finest of dining and extreme sports all abundant and in close proximity, packing so much into a short stay in Dubai is a breeze. 

On top of that, a slew of recent reforms have been announced to make the city more attractive than ever; weekends have been extended to include Sundays (traditionally, a working day in much of the Muslim world), alcohol is increasingly permitted, and unmarried ex-pats can now live together.

Last year, the BBC aired a new show looking at the lengths of luxury you can uncover in Dubai, titled Inside Dubai: Playground of the Rich. It was insightful, to say the least! And if you’re keen to make the most of your trip to the United Arab Emirates’ most populous city this year and follow in their footsteps, then here are 7 itinerary ideas for your luxury holiday to Dubai in 2024.

Haute Cuisine On High

We’re sure you already know that Dubai boasts the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, which stands proudly at 830 metres high. It shouldn’t surprise you to learn, then, that the world’s tallest restaurant is housed within the Burj Khalifa, too. 

Sitting (or should that be standing?) on the 122nd floor of this world famous skyscraper, At.Mosphere boasts floor to ceiling glass windows, all designed to allow you to truly luxuriate in the spectacle of dining in the sky. That’s if you can take your eyes off the food, that is; here, the ingredients are a roll call of the most indulgent available anywhere on the planet, with 12+ Japanese Wagyu rubbing shoulders with foie gras and yellowfin tuna on a menu of the heaviest of hitters. 

Naturally, you’ll pay for the privilege; the tasting menu at At.Mosphere is currently priced at AED 980 for seven courses (that’s around £220), with an even more extravagant tasting 13 course affair available for those with the deepest of pockets. And that’s before you consider the fizz…

And if you’re still hungry, check out our guide on where to eat on the Palm Jumeirah, another of Dubai’s key attractions.

A Mall To Mall Shopping Extravaganza

The City Of Gold is perhaps best known for its luxurious shopping options. For starters, Dubai is home to the world’s largest shopping centre, the Dubai Mall, where you can indulge in some retail therapy from designer houses such as Gucci and Armani (if you have the holiday budget for it, that is!).

With a whopping 1,200 shops, Dubai Mall should be your first port of call when visiting the City of Gold with shopping on your itinerary. But there are several other brilliant malls that you simply shouldn’t miss, including the Jumeirah Emirates Shopping Boulevard for luxury business clothes, the Dubai Marina Mall for shopping with a waterfront view, and the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, which is great for a more traditional bazaar shopping experience. You can even enjoy a spot of skiing whilst you shop, at the Mall of the Emirates. Yep, for any and all shopping tastes, Dubai has got you covered, so long as your credit card has the capacity.

Read: Things to do in Dubai for fashionistas

Serviced Apartment Paradise

Whilst Dubai’s iconic 7-star hotels are certainly worthy of your night’s sleep, many find an even more serene, private kind of luxury in the city’s incredible serviced apartments.

When you think of serviced apartments in Dubai, several iconic names come to mind. Properties like the Downtown Dubai Residences not only offer panoramic city views but also feature state-of-the-art gyms, spa services, and gourmet in-house dining. Another gem is the Marina Bay Suites. Positioned beside Dubai’s shimmering marina, these serviced apartments promise both scenic views and quick access to the city’s bustling nightlife.

Serviced apartments in Dubai aren’t just about offering a comfortable stay; they redefine what luxury means. Think private butlers, rooftop infinity pools overlooking the city’s skyline, dedicated concierge services, and in-house fine dining restaurants. These aren’t mere rooms or flats; they’re experiences waiting to be unravelled. For instance, the famed Palm Tower Residences offers an underwater gym and spa, setting a new benchmark for luxury living.

See The City By Supercar Or Boat

Aside from world beating skyscrapers, bank balance testing shopping and gravity defying fine dining, Dubai is perhaps most well known for its association with supercars.

Of course, anywhere well known for its ostentatious displays of wealth and luxury has its fair share of Lambos, Ferraris and Bentleys, but in the City of Gold, you’ll see them everywhere. In fact, the inner lane in Dubai is reserved for luxury cars travelling only at the most serious pace, with speeds of 200kmh not uncommon.

If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, as they say, so why not consider supercar rental as a (relatively) affordable way of seeing the city whilst doing a lap of luxury. Daily rental starts at around £500 for a luxury car. 

And once you’ve secured your vehicle, you’ll be pleased to know that there are some incredible road trips to take out of the city and into the surrounding countryside. Check out Time Out Dubai’s guide to the essential UAE road trips for more.

Do be aware that UAE law has a zero limit for intoxication when driving. Do not get behind the wheel even after a single beer. You will be jailed.

Seeing Dubai by boat is one of the most popular ways to experience the city’s beautiful skyline and iconic landmarks. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, a high-speed boat tour might be more your speed. This can include a tour around the Palm Jumeirah, with views of the Atlantis Hotel, Jumeirah Beach, and the Burj Al Arab.

Adrenaline Chasing At Dubai’s World Famous Theme Parks

If 200kmh isn’t fast enough for you, then why not raise the adrenaline even further at one of Dubai’s famous theme parks?

The IMG Worlds of Adventure is the largest indoor theme park in the world, spanning an incredible 1.5 million square feet (that’s 28 football pitches, to put things in perspective). Here, you’ll find rollercoasters Spiderman Doc Ock’s Revenge and the Velociraptor reaching truly dizzying speeds

But perhaps even more thrilling for coasters is Motiongate, which features rides based on movie blockbusters; the Capitol Bullet Train, in particular, is as hair-raising as it comes. 

Alternatively, for something a little different, Bollywood Parks brings the world of India’s movie industry to life, whilst Legoland Dubai provides younger visitors with a fun-filled day on its rides. 

Of course, in a city of such sweltering heat, water parks are big business, too, the undisputed champion of which is Aquaventure, one of the biggest water parks on the planet. 

Enjoy A Traditional Hamman Spa

Phew, we’ve been travelling at great speeds, dining at greater heights and generally splashing the cash in a rather dizzying way, but nothing says luxury like a spa day. And the people of Dubai really do know how to unwind in luxury. 

The city is full of beautifully decorated luxury spas, both traditional and modern. While you’re here, you have to check out one of the traditional Hammam spas, which is a Turkish or Middle Eastern style spa, more akin to a steam room or wet sauna, all designed to cleanse and relax your body and mind. Aaahhhh.

Go On A Desert Safari

Of course, not all of the most decadent Dubai experiences have to happen in the shadow of the city’s skyscrapers. There’s also plenty of fun to be found in the Arabian Desert, from desert safaris to hot air balloon rides. We’ve covered it all here; do check it out sometime!

Perhaps after such decadence, you might be considering moving to Dubai? In which case, we’ve got you covered; check out these 6 essential tips for expats moving to Dubai.

Let’s Take This Outside: 6 Ideas For Moving Your Home Office Into The Garden

Editorial Team
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Let’s Take This Outside: 6 Ideas For Moving Your Home Office Into The Garden
Ideal for eking out more space (and productivity) from your homeworking arrangement…

Despite the complaints about bad backs from hastily assembled offices, an ironing board-cum-desk which keeps collapsing, and the temptation of doing chores instead of meeting deadlines ever present, it looks like the UK has taken to this working from home thing with open arms. 

In fact, it’s been reported that two thirds of Brits are committed to homeworking for the long haul, viewing it as more than just a temporary crisis measure, and 39% still working from home, as of April 2023. 

That said, it can be hard to eke out a permanent space for home working indoors, with floor-based real estate scant and distractions seemingly lurking behind every (fridge) door.

Time to fold away that ironing board, stand down that stack of books supporting your computer and get your home office in proper working order, don’t you think? Should you be planning to decamp to the garden and use your outdoor space to house a home office, then read on; here are 6 ideas for moving your home office into your garden.

Convert Your Greenhouse

For those with a taste for the unconventional, why not consider converting a greenhouse into an office space? Large glass windows provide ample exposure to sunlight, promoting creativity and well-being – essential for maintaining work rhythm, of course. Heat retention technologies and insulating materials can offer a comfortable workspace, irrespective of the weather.

To ensure the structure is not only functional but also comfortable and conducive to work, here are a few things you ought to bear in mind:

  • Insulation and Temperature Control: A greenhouse is designed to be warm and to support plant growth. It can therefore get quite hot during the day and chilly at night, which is not conducive to a work environment. You may need to install proper insulation to regulate temperature more efficiently. Also, consider installing a heating and cooling system.
  • Lighting: While a greenhouse does offer ample natural lighting during the day, you must ensure it’s not too glaring for computer screens. You may need to control the light with window treatments or shades. Also, consider artificial lighting for evening work or darker days.
  • Ventilation: Fresh air flow is crucial in any office setup. Most greenhouses are well-ventilated, but ensure it is controlled, to avoid drafts or excessive cold.
  • Privacy: With a greenhouse’s glass or plastic walls, privacy might be an issue. Consider installing blinds, curtains, or frosted glass in certain areas if more privacy is required.
  • Office Furniture: Choose office furniture that complements the aesthetic of your greenhouse office. Consider using sustainable or weather-resistant materials.
  • Noise Control: Greenhouses may not provide great acoustics or noise insulation. If your office requires peace and quiet, you may need to install noise-reducing materials.

And hey, if you keep a few tomato plants growing in your office, you’ve got yourself a tasty, nutritious snack just a reach away!

Consider A Shofice (Shed Office)

‘’Shoo! Leave me alone, we’re trying to get some work done here, go bother your brother!’’

Whilst a ‘shoofice’ certainly ticks a few boxes, the real term is ‘shofice’, and is an amalgamation of ‘shed’ and ‘office’. Anything for a tenuous segue, hey?

Converting existing or new sheds into garden office buildings is actually surprisingly easy. The primary considerations are lighting, electricity, heating and insulation, the latter two being essential during the UK’s long Winters.

Ideally, floor and table lamps are best suited to lighting a shofice, as the light will be changing regularly according to the whims and wants of Britain’s inclement weather; you can respond accordingly as such lamps are portable.

Speaking of portable, an electric radiator – portable and wall mounted – will likely do the job of heating your shofice, even in winter. Insulating the walls, ceiling and floor of your shed/office will go further in keeping the heat in, and will also prevent damp in the room. 

You’re going to need an SWA cable installed, running from your property to the shed, in order to provide the shofice with that essential WiFi connection and charging sockets. It’s best to defer to a professional electrician on this one. If you are intent on going it alone here, check out Craftcamp’s office shed plans for a detailed overview of what to expect, measurement, material and size-wise.

Add A Garden Room

Garden rooms dedicated to being an office space can give #wfh a very different meaning this Spring and Summer. In doing so, you’ll create a devoted area which will enable you to focus on your work and deadlines with renewed vigour, and enable a little connection to nature in a time where our relationship with the outdoors has become rather fleeting. 

We all know that maintaining productivity levels during this topsy turvy time has been near impossible, but erecting a space of privacy and function in the garden will enable you to get your professional life back on track.

Arguably, garden rooms are a more attractive addition to the garden than a shed. Indeed, they are not just sheds wearing a bit of makeup; turning a garden room into a home office is ideal for keeping living spaces separate from working areas.

As the guys at ukgardenbuildings.co.uk tell us, essentially garden rooms often look like small oak houses, with a more open front which can be filled entirely with glass windows, allowing for loads of natural light. And the good news? If your garden house is dedicated to home working (without a bed installed), then it won’t need separate planning permission.

Some people are concerned about security when it comes to garden rooms. However be assured that most are designed with similar windows and doors to the ones found in our homes using multi-point locking systems to make them secure. You can always fit an alarm system in your garden office for an added layer of security, too.

Repurpose Your Summer House

Flip things around; instead of creating a new space for your office, create a space for relaxing in your garden which can double up as an office when the house gets too busy. A summer house makes a fantastic addition to any garden with the space to take it; these buildings are extremely versatile and can be set up to suit any need, acting as a second dining room or living room and adding aesthetic intrigue to the garden, too. 

Whilst the primary use of most summer houses is to promote relaxation and outdoor entertainment (hey, what better reason could there be?), these days they are used as everything from yoga spots to reading corners. Summer houses come in all different shapes and sizes and can be particularly pleasing on the eye depending on the style chosen, meaning they work well within the aesthetic of a stylish garden which has sections dedicated to defined purposes.

If investing in a summer house, add some comfortable furniture so you can unwind and read a book out front, or install a table and some chairs so your family can gather around for an evening of playing games and spending quality time with one another. With foreign holidays out of the question for now, this sounds like just the ticket! 

There is a caveat; summer houses are really just fine weather buildings with a thin structure, and as such, they are only really good for summer use. So, this one is ideally suited for the casual home worker who wants to fire off a few emails whilst luxuriating in their garden space, but for a more permanent fixture, the aforementioned shofice or garden room might be a better bet.

Laptop and coffee in outdoor office

The Possibility Of Garden Office Pods

An increasingly popular choice for home-workers, garden office pods blend style, practicality and sophistication. These self-contained units can be customised to mirror your specific requirements, creating your professional nook right amidst the flora and fauna of your garden. You can even go the extra green mile by incorporating eco-friendly materials or installing solar panels on the pod.

See New Potential In Your Orangery

Unlike the above, an orangery is connected to your home, much like a conservatory, and as such, is an excellent way to add a home office to domestic space – with wifi and electricity easily attached – whilst making use of the garden’s square-metres. 

Orangeries are fantastic for maximising natural light, as similar to conservatories, the majority of the walls are windows. Though this flow of sunlight can be uplifting, there are downsides; if your work largely takes place on a computer, then the reflection of sunlight and its subsequent glare on your screen can be obstructive to getting work done.

Equally, in summer, these rooms can get hot and humid – an orangery is distinguished from a conservatory by its glass lantern roof, and was used in previous centuries as a greenhouse for fruit growing. This should indicate how sticky it can get in there! 

Do bear this in mind if you plan to work from home in an orangery.

Looking for more interior (or exterior!) design ideas? Check out our article on here are 5 IDEAL ways to add some space to your home.

How Many Solar Panels Do I Actually Need To Power My Household?

Editorial Team
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How Many Solar Panels Do I Actually Need To Power My Household?
Ideal for bringing a new level of energy efficiency to your home…

Solar panels are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and start using more renewable energy, decrease your energy bills and take a step towards being more environmentally friendly. 

The process of getting solar panels, though, can seem daunting. You’ll likely be wondering: how many solar panels do I need? Which model of solar panels should I get? How heavy are solar panels? With tips from Skylamp Solar, here’s everything that you need to know.

How To Calculate How Many Solar Panels Your Home Needs

The best way to work out how many solar panels you need is to find out how much electricity you use per year. You should be able to do this by looking at your electricity bills. Whatever number you come up with can then simply be divided by how much electricity the solar panels you’re considering can make each year using solar power. An average 350-watt solar panel can produce 265 kWh (kilowatt hours), for example.

However, there are some factors that can make this more complicated. Your roof may not be able to hold as many solar panels as you need, for one. You might not be able to afford the most effective solar panels, the correct solar panel installation for your home’s unique needs may not be available in your area, the cost of solar panels might be out of your budget, and you might not even know what kind of solar panels you need!

What Type Of Solar Panels Do You Need?

Once you’ve got the figures to calculate how many solar panels you need, you can start to determine what type of solar panels to get. This will be an important factor in determining the number of solar panels to purchase. When considering which solar panels you need, you should consider:

How Much Roof Space Do You Have?

It’s all well and good wondering ‘how many solar panels do I need?‘, but if you don’t work out how many solar panels you can fit, you’re going to wind up in a difficult position.

Generally, you’re best off hiring a professional to measure your roof space so that you can determine how many solar panels you can fit on it. On average, a solar panel will be about two square meters. So, once your roof space has been measured, simply divide the square meterage by two to determine the number of solar panels that you can fit up there. You will then be able to check to see whether it’s anywhere near the number of panels you need based on how much solar energy you require to produce power for your home (based on the average 350-watt solar panel).

If there is a discrepancy between how many panels you need and how many panels you can fit, do not fret.

Bear in mind that the more solar panels you need the more bird proofing you will need!

What Wattage Of Solar Panel Do You Need?

You should now know how much power you need your solar panels to produce, and how many 350-watt conventional solar panels you would need installed in order to achieve that. If there is an issue with how many panels you can fit, though, you can choose to opt for a different model of solar panel. This will allow you to install fewer panels and still achieve the same energy levels a bigger solar system with more solar panels would be able to achieve.

It is important to be sure that you know your household energy usage, before you carry on. If you’ve been using an average one bedroom house for measurement, at this point it is worth contacting your provider to find out exactly how much energy you use per year. Installing solar panels is an expensive job, and the last thing you want is to have your residential solar panels installed only to need them changing when you realise how much electricity you actually need!

Panelit Solar’s website states that there are a huge number of solar panels on the market, and to calculate which wattage you need (and that will fit on your roof) you should do the following calculation:

  • roof space (in square metres) divided by solar panel size (in square metres, usually 2) = how many solar panels
  • annual energy usage (kWh) divided by how many solar panels = the necessary kWh for each solar panel

From there, you can search for panels that suit your roof space and your home.

What Type Of Solar Panels Are Needed?

There are two main types of solar panels:

  • monocrystalline
  • polycrystalline

You will need to decide between the two when looking at getting a solar system installed. The differences between the two are:

  • Monocrystalline has a higher efficiency rate, meaning they may help to reduce energy bills further. The efficiency rate is 15 to 20% in comparison to polyscrystalline’s 13 to 17%.
  • Monocrystalline requires less space to install.
  • Monocrystalline is less affected by whether, but it does have a lower performance in high temperatures.
  • Monocrystalline is the most expensive solar panel type.
  • Polycrystalline is cheaper.
  • Polycrystalline is much more temperature tolerant

Should I Get A Solar Battery?

A solar battery storage unit can be really worthwhile when getting solar panels installed. A solar battery is a part of a solar panel system that stores the solar power that the solar pv panels produce. This increases how much solar power you can use, and reduces your reliance on the national grid. Your solar panel installer should be able to install a solar battery for you, although it may cost extra.

Installing a solar battery as a part of your solar panel system can help to reduce your carbon footprint and increase the cost efficiency of your solar PV system by increasing how much electricity you actually use from the solar PVpv system rather than the National Grid.

Next up, a very modern-day concern; ensuring your home is properly energy efficient, even when you’re on holiday. Do check it out sometime.

Can I Paint Laminate Bedroom Furniture? Top Tips On Doing So Cleanly, Effectively & With Durability

Editorial Team
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Can I Paint Laminate Bedroom Furniture? Top Tips On Doing So Cleanly, Effectively & With Durability
Ideal for breathing new life into your bedroom furniture easily and inexpensively…

Laminate furniture is often inexpensive and easily accessible. Let’s face it though; a lot of it is a little uninspiring, coming in white or black and not bringing much lift and vigour to a room. 

If you’ve bought or been given laminate furniture that you want to change the colour of, perhaps for a bedroom revamp or a renovation project, then you might be thinking about painting laminate furniture. Unfortunately, painting laminate furniture isn’t as easy as it seems. It is doable, though.

To paint laminate furniture cleanly, effectively and with longevity in mind, here’s what you need to know.

Can You Paint Laminate Furniture?

According to Sketch Spray the simple answer is yes, you can paint laminate furniture. However, the furniture needs to be prepared first. The laminate surface is not paintable as it is, so you will need to do something to it in order to let the paint stick. There are two ways to prepare laminate furniture for painting; you can either lightly sand the laminate surface or you can use a primer to prep the laminate furniture.

Read: 7 bold furniture hacks to transform your home

Using A Primer To Paint Laminate Furniture

If you want to avoid sanding when you paint your furniture, then you will need to use a primer. To paint laminate furniture without sanding, simply follow these steps:

1. Clean the laminate surface

When it comes to painting most things, you need to clean the surface first in order to create a smooth surface. When you paint laminate furniture, this is equally important. You don’t want furniture with little lumps – so it must be cleaned thoroughly.

A mild cleaner will work well when preparing for painting laminate furniture, but sugar soap will work best to remove grease and residue, especially on any laminate furniture that has been left in storage for any length of time.

2. Apply a high-quality primer

You will need a high quality primer. It is best to choose one specifically designed for painting laminate furniture. A primer designed for painting furniture that is not laminate is unlikely to work as well. Paint a coat of primer onto the surface of the laminate furniture and let the primer dry.

3. Start painting

You will need a couple of coats of paint here. You should opt for enamel paint to make sure that the paint does not chip over time.

Paint your furniture in even coats using one brush or roller in thin, even coats. Let the paint dry completely between each coat to ensure a smooth finish.

4. Apply a durable top coat

You will then need to seal the paint in to prevent the colour from peeling off. This is especially important if you haven’t sanded the laminate furniture as it will protect the paint job from wear and tear.

What Is The Best Primer To Use When Painting Laminate Furniture Without Sanding?

According to the experts at Homes Direct 365, you want to find a primer that is designed for laminate furniture, as mentioned. This means not a water based or oil based primer. Primers such as BIN Shellac Based Primer, Zinsser Cover Stain Primer, and STIX Bonding Primer are highly recommended. They are some of the top bonding primer options out there.

If you can’t find those brands, look for shellac based primers or anything specifically designed for laminate surfaces.

What Is The Best Paint To Use On Laminate Furniture Without Sanding?

There are two types of paint that are recommended for laminate furniture, regardless of whether you are looking to paint it without sanding or whether you’ve sanded it first.

Generally, it is advised to use latex paint or acrylic enamel paint. The latter is best for lighter colours. Both will give your furniture a good colour with protection. Apply the paint to the entire surface and leave to dry, then apply another coat to the laminate surfaces until you reach your desired colour.

You can also use chalk paint, although it is less highly recommended. Chalk paint will work, but it will not provide as much protection. Chalk paint will provide a good colour, but chalk paint is not as sturdy as latex paint or enamel paint is. If you do use chalk paint, you will likely need at least two coats.

How To Paint Laminate Furniture Using Sandpaper

Now you know how to paint laminate furniture without sanding, here’s how to do so with sanding.

1. Prepare the furniture

To prepare the laminate furniture you will need to clean the surface, and then you will need to sand it with 120-grit sandpaper in order to disturb the glossy surface and create a surface that paint will stick to, regardless of whether it is latex paint, chalk paint or anything else.

2. Prime the furniture

As with wood furniture or laminate furniture that you haven’t sanded, you will then need to prime the surface. It doesn’t need to be a bonding primer, though. It can just be any old primer or even a 2 in 1 paint and primer, as you’ve already made a surface that the paint can stick to.

3. Paint the furniture

Apply your paint as with any job, evenly and in thin coats. Then, once it is applied, let it dry completely before applying another coat.

4. Apply a sealant

Add a top coat to the laminate using even brush strokes to create a smooth paint finish.

What Top Coats Are Good For Laminate Furniture?

According to Revamp Spray a polycrylic top coat is a great way to protect your painted laminate surface or any other decorating jobs involving paint, especially if you’ve used latex paint. Acrylic sealers will also work to provide a final layer of protection to the item, meaning that no matter how many times your coffee table gets knocked, your furniture will still look perfect!

48 Hours In Richmond, Canada: The City With Something For Everyone

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48 Hours In Richmond, Canada: The City With Something For Everyone
Ideal for wonderful weekend away in one of Canada’s most multicultural cities…

Just twenty minutes from downtown Vancouver lies Richmond, Canada, the country’s most multicultural city. Offering culinary adventures, cultural diversity and breathtaking natural beauty, this is a place with something for everyone. 

The city, which began attracting Chinese immigrants as early as the 19th and 20th centuries during the gold rush and railway construction era, is a welcoming place to new arrivals, its location on the Pacific Ocean further heightening its appeal as a home away from home. 

Richmond’s flourishing economy, lifted up by the Asian-run businesses in areas such as the Golden Village, creates an inviting landscape for entrepreneurship. These elements contribute to Richmond’s rich cultural tapestry, offering a blend of Eastern and Western cultures visible in its markets, festivals, and daily life. What a place it is.

Renowned for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and lush scenery, Richmond promises a captivating sojourn for every traveller. Today, we’ve teamed up with Rentola.ca, who list affordable rental options in the city to suit any budget, to take in the sites, smells, sounds and flavours of this remarkable city. Join us on this whirlwind 48-hour culinary and cultural exploration of Richmond, Canada.

Day 1: Morning – Breakfast At Kam Do Bakery & A Steveston Stroll

Let’s not mess around here. Instead, it’s straight to Richmond’s beloved Kam Do Bakery on the city’s bust No. 3 Road for an egg tart or two.

If you did, indeed, have two (of course you did), then walk them off with a leisurely stroll through the quaint, historic fishing village of Steveston (just a fifteen minute bus ride from Kam Do Bakery). 

Marvel at the beautifully preserved Victorian-era cannery, where you can take a step back in time at the Steveston Museum and the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site. Here, you’ll learn about the city’s maritime legacy and Pacific fishing industry whilst meandering through interactive exhibits.

Mid-Morning – Visit Richmond Nature Park

After your Steveston stroll, head to Richmond Nature Park if you’ve got the time (it is, admittedly, a 15 minute taxi ride back in the direction of No. 3 Road). This sprawling 200-acre park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. With walking trails, it offers insights into peat bog ecology. The nature house here provides great learning for kids and adults alike about local flora and fauna.

Lunch: Dim Sum At Fisherman’s Terrace Seafood Restaurant

No trip to Richmond would be complete without indulging in its exceptional culinary scene. Known as the city with the highest number of restaurants per capita in Canada, the city revels in a glorious array of international cuisines that cater to every palate, with a focus on Chinese food the clear highlight.

Offering the freshest catch straight from the Pacific Ocean, Fisherman’s Terrace Seafood Restaurant takes all that’s good about Richmond’s restaurant scene and runs with it. So, that’s an intricate, generous dim sum lunch with a focus on shellfish; the fresh shrimp dumplings and lobster congee are exquisite. 

Afternoon: Take A Deep Dive Into The City’s History

Post-lunch, satiate your cultural cravings at the Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site. This eight-acre site features preserved buildings from several eras and provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the diverse immigrant communities who worked in the maritime industry. 

Cap off your afternoon with a visit to the Richmond Art Gallery, home to thought-provoking contemporary art exhibitions.

Late Afternoon – Explore The International Buddhist Temple

After your visit to the Richmond Art Gallery, make your way to the International Buddhist Temple. Modelled after Beijing’s Forbidden City, the temple is a stunning architectural marvel with serene gardens, where you can experience tranquillity in the middle of the city.

Evening: International Flavours & Night Market Novelties

As evening sets, immerse yourself in the Richmond Night Market – a colourful, bustling event that perfectly encapsulates the city’s multicultural spirit. Sample diverse street food options, peruse myriad stalls selling arts and crafts, and enjoy live entertainment amidst a crowd that ebbs and flows with positive spirit.

Night – Starlight Theatre Drive-In Movie 

Post the night market visit, wrap up your day with a nostalgic drive-in movie experience at the Starlight Theatre at the Landsdowne Centre, a half hour’s walk north of the night market. This outdoor theatre showcases a variety of films under the starry sky, offering an uniquely enjoyable experience.

Read: 5 travel tips for Canada first timers

Day 2: Morning – Richmond’s Natural Wonders

First things first, breakfast, at Lido Restaurant. You’ll recognise Lido, Richmond’s Hong Kong style cafe, by the queues snaking round the block from the moment the doors open at 8am. They’re all here (and you should be too) for the signature pineapple buns, which get filled with a slab of ice cold butter. Heaven!

Next, head off to Terra Nova Rural Park, a paradisiacal spot offering serene walking trails, community gardens, and picturesque views of the North Shore Mountains and the Pacific. It’s a peaceful oasis within the city where you can enjoy bird-watching and leisurely cycling.

Mid-Morning – Cycle The West Dyke Trail

More cycling? Before you head to lunch, rent a bike and pedal your way along the West Dyke Trail, which is part of Terra Nova. The trail promises panoramic views of the Strait of Georgia, Gulf Islands, and even Vancouver Island on clear days. It’s an invigorating way to immerse yourself in Richmond’s natural beauty.

Lunch: A Bowl Of Noodles At Richmond Public Market

If we hadn’t already mentioned, Richmond is home to some of North America’s best Chinese food. For lunch on your second day, head to Richmond Public Market, an admittedly shabby looking building which houses some truly brilliant bowls. We’re here for the biang-biang noodles from Xi’an Cuisine, hand-pulled and boasting a restorative broth slicked with chilli oil.

Afternoon: Retail Therapy At Aberdeen Centre

Enter the world of luxe shopping at Aberdeen Centre, a unique East-meets-West shopping mall. From high-end fashion brands to cutting-edge tech gadgets, it’s retail therapy at its finest. The food court, featuring Asian delicacies, offers a delectable respite from shopping (Fisherman’s Terrace from our Day 1 lunch is just around the corner, by the way, if you’re keen to change up the itinerary somewhat).

Late Afternoon – Visit The McArthurGlen Designer Outlet

After your venture at Aberdeen Centre, make a quick stop at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet. It mirrors a European village and offers an assortment of luxury brands at discounted prices.

Evening: Raising A Glass To Canada’s Craft Beer Scene

Your 48-hour sojourn in Richmond wouldn’t be complete without visiting the city’s celebrated breweries. Venture into Fuggles & Warlock Craftworks or Britannia Brewing Co, both part of the BC Ale Trail, for a tasting tour. Enjoy a lingering evening sipping craft beers, paired with gourmet snacks.

Night – Visit The Epicentre Of Richmond’s Nightlife At River Rock Casino

End your second day on a high note by visiting the River Rock Casino. The casino is the heart of Richmond’s nightlife, offering both gaming and entertainment options. With an array of slot machines, table games, poker rooms, live shows and dining outlets, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

The Bottom Line

A weekend in Richmond promises a cultural and a Canadian culinary odyssey unlike any other. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, art enthusiast, or nature lover, the city has something to offer everyone. We’ll see you somewhere in the city for a bowl of noodles?

Collaborating In The Capital: London’s Most Popular Co-Working Spaces

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Collaborating In The Capital: London’s Most Popular Co-Working Spaces
Ideal for remote networking in the capital…

Over the past decade, London has experienced a remarkable/necessary transformation in its work culture, and at the heart of this shift lies the rise in remote working. A byproduct, as anyone who has strutted the streets in recent months will have noticed, is the unignorable proliferation of coworking spaces. 

As the traditional 9-to-5 office model becomes less relevant, city-dwelling professionals are seeking a more flexible, collaborative, and professional environment to do their business.  

This evolution in work habits has given rise to a vast array of coworking spaces across the capital – some good, and some, well, a little less conducive to churning out those numbers.

The Appeal Of Flexible Workspaces

One of the primary reasons behind the growth of coworking in London is the appeal of flexibility. Startups, freelancers, and established businesses are drawn to flexible memberships, allowing them to scale their office space as needed. 

This flexibility minimises overhead costs and provides a responsive solution to London’s dynamic business landscape. Additionally, coworking spaces often come fully equipped with modern amenities, making it easier for professionals to focus on their work without worrying about infrastructure.

A Sense Of Community

Working from home during COVID-19 certainly suited many, granting time to focus on more important concerns than Excel spreadsheets and endless meetings. But for some, the isolated nature of home working led to a sense of listlessness and distraction, with creativity and output suffering. 

Co-working spaces aim to give back that sense of community and collaboration to those who were missing it. Beyond offering desks and conference rooms, these spaces cultivate groups of like-minded individuals who inspire and collaborate. 

In the best cases, this might even bring about a cross-pollination of ideas and networking.

Some Of London’s Most Popular Co-Working Spaces

London boasts a vibrant and diverse coworking scene, catering to the needs of freelancers, startups, remote workers, and established businesses. Here are a handful of London’s best coworking spaces.

WeWork – South Bank Tower

Located in central London, WeWork at Southbank centre offers a prime location with breathtaking views of the River Thames and the city skyline, and plenty of great restaurants close to hand, too.

With state-of-the-art amenities and facilities, this coworking space provides members access to spacious private meeting rooms, fast internet, and a vibrant community of professionals.

Pricing options range from flexible hot desks to private office suites, accommodating various budgets. There are also shared offices and virtual offices for all needs.

Members can also enjoy exclusive events, wellness programs, and access to a global network of  WeWork locations.

Photo by MART PRODUCTION: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-man-and-woman-having-conversation-while-sitting-near-the-table-with-laptop-7550542/

Huckletree Shoreditch

Nestled in the creative hub of Shoreditch, Huckletree is a dynamic coworking space that caters to startups, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals. 

The location is renowned for its innovation-friendly atmosphere and proximity to tech startups. Amenities include stylish meeting rooms, event spaces, and a wellness studio. 

Situated in the legendary Alphabeta Building, Huckletree offers fixed desks for long-term rent and on-demand access to co-working space via the Hubble Pass. 

The Brew Eagle House, Shoreditch

The Brew Eagle House combines historic charm with modern amenities in the heart of bustling Shoreditch High St. 

This coworking space occupies a beautifully renovated Victorian warehouse and offers a range of flexible workspaces, from open-plan areas to serviced offices. 

Members can access high-speed internet, showers, dedicated desks, and a dedicated events space with unlimited coffee. 

The Brew offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs, making it an appealing choice for startups and freelancers.

Read: Where to eat near Shoreditch High Street Station

Second Home Spitalfields

Second Home Spitalfields is a unique coworking space that fosters creativity and collaboration in East London. 

Located in a stunning, plant-filled building, this space provides a collaborative work environment for entrepreneurs and artists. Members enjoy breakout spaces, a grand Art Deco building, private phone booths, and private offices.

Pricing options are flexible, with affordable plans for individuals and teams. Second Home’s emphasis on sustainability and design sets it apart as a socially conscious coworking choice in London.

WorkLife, Camden

Worklife offers all-inclusive memberships and day passes, providing access to amenities such as shower facilities, private phone booths, and free artisan coffee. 

Tobacco Dock Workspaces, Wapping

Located next to one of London’s biggest events facilities, Tobacco Dock Workspaces offers long-term private offices and fixed desks. 

LABS, Camden Triangle

LABS is spread over three beautifully designed buildings, and offers private offices to rent by the month or longer. 

UNCOMMON, Highbury & Islington

Situated between Holloway Road and Highbury & Islington stations, UNCOMMON offers private offices and fixed desks to rent by the month or longer.

The Clubhouse, Mayfair

Offering luxurious space that impresses clients and investors, with private offices and fixed desks available. 

Plexal, Stratford

Based at Here East in Stratford, Plexal offers hot desks, fixed desks, and private offices.

The cost of renting a hot desk varies according to location and other amenities. Some facilities allow you to pay by the hour or by the day, while others offer a monthly rate. Average prices in London range between £100 and £300 per month. 

The Bottom Line

In the dynamic landscape of London’s coworking spaces, innovation thrives, and flexibility reigns supreme. 

With many options catering to diverse needs, professionals in the capital can embrace collaborative environments that foster creativity and productivity. 

Coworking spaces continue to shape how we work as the city evolves, providing a glimpse into the future of a more agile and interconnected work culture. 

Explore, adapt, and thrive within this vibrant realm where possibilities are endless and the traditional office is transformed into a hub of innovation and collaboration.

The IDEAL Day Out In Zona Magenta, Milan: 14 Of The Best Things To Do

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The IDEAL Day Out In Zona Magenta, Milan: 14 Of The Best Things To Do
Ideal for making the most out of your time in the Fashion Capital of the World…

Ensconced within the vibrant metropolis of Milan lies Zona Magenta, a district that masterfully blends historic charm with modern allure.

Part of the wider Centro Storico area, it’s a place where culture thrives and Italian heritage passionately speaks through architectural marvels, enlightening museums, and gastronomical prowess. 

Since we’ve only got a day here, we better hop to it; let’s leap into a day’s itinerary that captures the true essence of this evocative Milanese district. Here are 14 of the best things to do on the IDEAL day out in Zona Magenta, Milan.

Start Your Day At The San Maurizio Al Monastero Maggiore

No visit to Zona Magenta should start without a trip to the Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore. Often referred to as the ‘Sistine Chapel of Milan,’ it’s a venue where art and tranquillity coalesce, offering a peaceful start to your day.

Delve Into History At The Archaeological Museum

A hop away from San Maurizio lies the Archaeological Museum. Journey into Milan’s past through its Roman roots and early Christian and Lombard periods.

Elevenses, Italian Style

No visit to Milan, one of Italy’s culinary capitals, is complete without indulging in its distinctive cuisine. Take a break at Pasticceria Marchesi, one of Milan’s most traditional patisseries over on Via Santa Maria alla Porta. Sip on a steadying espresso, enjoy a truly indulgent maritozzi or a classic Milanese panettone, and watch the folk of the world’s fashion capital strut their stuff.

Visit The Last Supper Museum

A short stroll away resides one of Leonardo da Vinci’s most revered creations, ‘The Last Supper,’ housed in the Cenacolo Vinciano Museum. This world-famous artwork is a must-visit – just remember to book ahead. Some sites like lastsupperticket.com offer tickets alongside wider tours of the city as a package, which can help you save money if you’re keen on doing plenty of sightseeing while you’re here.

Drop By The Santa Maria Delle Grazie

Next door to the Last Supper Museum stands the breathtaking Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This architectural wonder is a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles that will transport you back in time.

Indulge In Retail Therapy On Via Della Moscova

Enjoy a spot of retail therapy along Via della Moscova. Here you’ll find an eclectic mix of Italian brands and high-end international labels to entice both shopaholics and window-shoppers alike.

Lunch Time At Trattoria Milanese

It’s time for lunch at Trattoria Milanese, a charming restaurant that’s been standing since 1933 and prides itself on traditional Milanese cuisine. Try their opulent osso buco or a heavenly risotto, flavoured simply with saffron, butter and heaps of parmesan, and don’t forget to pair your meal with a local Lombardy wine, of which hundreds of bottles line the walls. 

Just scheduled a little lie down afterwards, as Milanese food can be a touch heavy!

Unwind At Parco Sempione

Speaking of which…

After a hearty lunch, enjoy some calm at Parco Sempione. This verdant oasis in the middle of the city offers a chance to relax, perhaps with a book or a leisurely cycle around the park.

Explore The Triennale Design Museum

Foster your appreciation for art and design at the Triennale Design Museum. With its celebration of Italian and international design, you’ll never look at everyday objects the same way again.

Enjoy Aperitivo Hour At Bar Magenta

Aperitivo hour is a distinctively Milanese tradition because it originated in the city in the 19th century, conceived by Gaspare Campari, the creator of the famous Campari aperitif. This pre-dinner ritual of enjoying drinks and small bites, originally meant to stimulate the appetite, has since become a cherished aspect of Milan’s local culture and social life. Bar Magenta is perhaps the best place in the area to settle in for a sip or two.

Or, if you’re happy with having a little stroll, then Camparino in Galleria, close to the Duomo and around a 20 minute walk out of Zona Magenta, is as iconic as it comes when considering aperitivo.

Enjoy Contemporary Italian Dining At Insieme Restaurant

As the day mellows into evening, head to Insieme Restaurant for a taste of more modern Milanese cooking. Refined yet relaxed, it’s the perfect embodiment of the city’s spirit. Do not miss the slow cooked veal with caper-studded tonnato sauce; just incredible.

Follow Dinner With A Little Passeggiata Along Corso Magenta

However, light and breezy dinner might have been, you’ll want to walk it off a while. Take a stroll down Corso Magenta, one of Milan’s main thoroughfares. Here, it’s a case of seen and be seen, so best get that gait looking just right!

Experience Milan’s Famous Nightlife At Corso Como

Immerse yourself in Milan’s eclectic nightlife with a visit to Corso Como. This bustling pedestrian street, filled with lively bars and clubs, offers a chance to dance the night away. Alternatively, head south to Navigli district, a 15 minute tube ride away, where the real action is.

End With A Gelato Treat At Gelato Fatto Con Amore

Round off the day in true Italian style with a gelato from Gelato Fatto Con Amore – an artisanal ice cream parlour offering a tantalising selection of flavours all made with love. The queues for this place are well worth braving for a taste of their hazelnut gelato!

The Bottom Line

Every corner of Zona Magenta sings a melody of Italian charm, enriching your senses with the city’s illustrious past and a steadfast celebration of its present. Your day in this historic district promises to be a joyous blend of discovery, delight, and a dollop of la dolce vita. Heaven.

Next up, check out our guide on where to stay in Milan if you’re on a budget. You won’t regret it!

The Average Lifespans Of Our Favourite Furry Friends

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The Average Lifespans Of Our Favourite Furry Friends
Ideal for making the most out of every second with your beloved pet…

We are a nation of animal lovers – and chances are that if you don’t already have a furry friend of your own in the immediate vicinity, you’re thinking of getting one.

Indeed, according to statistics commissioned by the PDSA, more than half of UK households have welcomed some form of domesticated creature into their homes – mammal, reptile, aquatic or otherwise. 

But bonds formed with such animals are hard-felt when they reach the end of their natural lifespan. With this in mind, what are the average lifespans of some of the UK’s more popular animal pals?

Dogs

Dogs are near-universally known as ‘man’s best friend’, and for extremely good reason. One of mankind’s first domesticised animals, dogs have been close companions for millennia. 

They’re the most common additional member to UK households, with over a third of families having welcomed canis familiaris into their lives. Given the unique bond that we can share with the dogs in our lives, it is all the more painful when it comes time to say goodbye – and for some breeds, that time can come much earlier than others. 

Generally speaking, smaller breeds of dogs are more likely to live a long life than larger breeds; poodles can expect to live up to 14 years, and chihuahuas up to an incredible 20. Larger dogs have slightly shorter average lifespans, but it is selective breeding that has had one of the biggest impacts concerning dog lifespans. Pugs were bred in favour of flatter faces, with catastrophic consequences for their respiratory health – as such, their average lifespan sits below eight years.

Read: How to help your dog live their best life

Cats

Where dogs appear to be the nation’s favourite, cats run an extremely close second. Around 28% of households are shared with felis catus – and ‘shared’ really is the correct phrasing. It’s a cat’s world, and we’re just living in it.

Cats tend to live longer than dogs, with the average life expectancy for most breeds extending towards 18 or even 20 years. However, that average comes down for cats that enjoy an outdoor lifestyle. One major reason for this is the risk of grievous injury from a car accident, though outdoor cats are also more likely to contract diseases.

Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are a fantastic hutch animal for younger members of the family to take care of, and often the first brush with animal stewardship that a child might ever experience. They can also live much longer than their size and rodent status, with many living for up to 8 years. There are a great many variables though, from the guinea pig food they are fed to the size and state of their hutch. Naturally, higher-quality food and more space to exercise make for a healthier rodent, and longer lifespan.

Rabbits

Guinea pigs are certainly not the only hutch animals to grab the hearts and minds of the nation’s youth, though. Rabbits are another hugely popular option, if a little larger and higher-maintenance. Rabbits live longer than guinea pigs, with an upper limit to their life expectancy of around a decade. Despite the longer lifespan, they share much in common with the guinea pig in terms of variables!

Hamsters

These small, incredibly endearing animals easily win space in our hearts and homes. Hamsters, with their adorable cheeks and playful mannerisms, are companionable little souls. They’re particularly popular with families due to their manageable size and relatively low maintenance. 

Sadly, these tiny fur-balls hold a shorter chapter in our lives, having an average lifespan of 2 to 3 years. They may only be with us for a short time, but the joy and warmth they bring to our lives leave lasting memories. Each moment we get to spend with these little ones becomes a cherished gift, reminding us to treasure the brief but beautiful time we have together.

Birds

Birds, ranging from budgies to cockatiels and parrots, light up our lives with their vibrant colours and melodious voices. Their fascinating behaviours and remarkable intelligence make them truly special companions. Life expectancy can widely fluctuate depending on the species. 

Budgies typically live around 10 to 15 years, while larger birds like parrots can astoundingly live up to 50 years or more. It’s humbling to imagine the generations of human lives these beautiful creatures can traverse, lending their companionship and tunes to a multitude of loving homes. A pet bird can become a companion who accompanies you through various stages of life, sharing laughter, tears, triumphs, and providing a comforting presence.

Turtles

Turtles are often chosen as pets for their peaceful demeanour and unique charm, and are ideal for those who suffer from allergies, too. Turtles have a considerably long lifespan, averaging between 20 to 40 years, and certain species can even live to be over 100. Thanks to this longevity, they can become lifelong companions. 

As we watch them glide serenely in their tanks or bask lazily under the heat lamp, they teach us the value of patience, and of living life at a slower pace. They remind us to take life a little less hurriedly, to savour each moment, and to appreciate the tranquillity they bring to our lives.

Coping With A Pet Bereavement

The loss of a beloved pet can be an incredibly heart-wrenching experience. Dealing with such a profound loss may often feel overwhelming, as we grieve for their companionship and unconditional love which warmed the corners of our life. It’s crucial to allow yourself the time and space to grieve, for it is a natural and necessary process for healing. Don’t shy away from expressing your sorrow, instead, share your feelings with understanding friends or family members. 

It can also be helpful to memorialise your pet in some way – perhaps by planting a tree, creating a photo album, or making a donation to an animal welfare charity in their name. This not only honours their life but also helps in cherishing those special memories you shared together. 

The Bottom Line

Our bonds with animals, regardless of their lifespans, extend beyond space and time. Even when our furry, feathery, or shelled friends reach the end of their earthly journeys, they remain in our hearts, their love and companionship etched in our memories. 

These relationships, these shared moments of joy and companionship, are what make our lives richer and more meaningful. In loving and caring for our pets, we learn to embrace the cycle of life with grace and compassion.

48 Hours In Kuwait: Your Ultimate Itinerary For A Weekend In Kuwait

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48 Hours In Kuwait: Your Ultimate Itinerary For A Weekend In Kuwait

Sun-soaked and teeming with a unique blend of tradition and modernity, Kuwait is a gem nestled in the heart of the Middle East that’s often overlooked by British tourists. This tiny but mighty nation offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from its futuristic skyline to its inspiring heritage. If you’re planning a 48-hour sojourn in Kuwait, this itinerary will offer you a taste of everything this captivating emirate has to offer.

Getting To Kuwait From The UK

The easiest and most direct way to travel from the UK to Kuwait would be by air. Kuwait Airways, British Airways and Finnair all operate direct flights from London Heathrow to Kuwait International Airport in Kuwait City. It’s also possible to fly direct from London Stansted to Kuwait City with Jazeera Airways. Finally, Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines both fly indirect, with a brief stopover in Istanbul.

Flights are surprisingly affordable between London and Kuwait, with a return trip available from around the £200 mark.

Direct flights depart from Manchester Airport to Kuwait City, too, but prices are significantly higher than when departing from Heathrow.

The flight duration from Heathrow (or Manchester) Airport to Kuwait is approximately 6.5 to 7 hours. On arrival, you can hire a taxi or use ride-hailing services such as Careem or Uber to reach your destination within the city.

British nationals can either apply for an E-visa in advance of their trip or get a visa on arrival in Kuwait, which generally lasts for 90 days. For additional information about E-visas, see the website of the Ministry of Interior. Do be aware that immigration officials in Kuwait may request to see proof of return or onward travel, a sponsor’s letter, and proof of an accommodation booking upon arrival.

Anyway, enough of the admin. Let’s touch down in Kuwait for the weekend and explore this fascinating country…

Day 1: Delving Into Tradition

As the sun peeks over the horizon, the city of Kuwait slowly stirs into life. The call to prayer from distant minarets echoes through the gentle morning air, as dawn unfolds, revealing the grandeur of the city’s traditional skyline. The scent of freshly brewed Arabic coffee wafts from roadside cafés, blending with the aroma of freshly baking Khubz. 

Stalls begin to set-up, ready to unveil the wealth of treasures hidden within the city’s traditional marketplace. This is the day to delve into Kuwait’s rich history and tradition, immersing oneself in its captivating heritage.

Morning – Kuwait National Museum & Seif Palace

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe, where you can taste traditional Kuwaiti breakfast items such as Balaleet (sweet saffron noodles served with a savory omelette on top), or Chbaab (Kuwaiti-style pancakes).

Once satiated and satisfied, head over to Kuwait National Museum, just a stone’s throw away from the city centre. Delve into Kuwait’s past by visiting the Heritage House and the Archaeological and Astronomical museums inside the compound. The museum offers a compelling journey through the country’s history, from the Neolithic Age to the advent of oil.

Next, pay a visit to the nearby Seif Palace, a spectacle of old-world Arabic architecture. With captivating blue tiles, intricate mosaics and a majestic watchtower, the palace reflects the rich Kuwaiti heritage.

Afternoon – Souk Al-Mubarakiya & Grand Mosque

After getting your fill of history, head to the Souk Al-Mubarakiya. This traditional market encapsulates the spirit of old Kuwait. Meander through the bustling stalls selling everything from perfumes and spices to gold and local handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and don’t forget to indulge in a traditional Kuwaiti lunch at one of the central restaurants. Try Majboos or Machboos, a fragrant rice dish loaded with spices and meat.

Next, visit the Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in Kuwait. The mosque’s grandeur, coupled with its serene atmosphere, provides a soothing retreat from the bustling market. A guided tour will offer glimpses of the exquisite Islamic architecture and the main prayer hall that can accommodate up to 10,000 men.

Evening – Stroll along the Corniche & Dinner at Marina Crescent

As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely walk along the Kuwait City Corniche. The scenic thoroughfare offers extraordinary views of the Arabian Gulf. Watch the sunset and enjoy the cool breeze.

Unwind at Marina Crescent, a popular waterfront lined with restaurants and cafes serving both local and international cuisines. Enjoy a delightful dinner while savouring the stunning views.

Day 2: Embracing Modernity

You rise with Kuwait on the second day as the sun casts long shadows over the city’s modern architecture, the cityscape exudes a futuristic charm, in contrast to yesterday’s traditional vibes. The soft hum of the morning traffic sets the day’s rhythm while the city’s parks and gardens glisten under the early morning dew. Today is the day to embrace Kuwait’s diverse modernity, exploring the seamless integration of ultra-modern amenities with an enduring cultural heartbeat.

Morning – The Avenues & Tareq Rajab Museum of Islamic Calligraphy

Fuel up for a fun-filled day with the local favourite Fatayer (a soft, oven-baked pastry stuffed with spinach, cheese, or meat) or Ful Medames (cooked fava beans seasoned with lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil – typically served with flatbread).

After a hearty breakfast, gear up for a shopping spree at The Avenues, the largest shopping mall in Kuwait. This mall is a one-stop destination for fashion, homeware, and entertainment.

Next, visit the Tareq Rajab Museum of Islamic Calligraphy, home to a splendid collection of Islamic art, including rare manuscripts, ceramics, and metalwork. 

After this deep dive into history, take a ten minute taxi to Amr Bin Al Aas street (Kuwait’s famous ‘food street’) for lunch. Follow your nose – or simply join the longest queue! – and you’ll be richly rewarded.

Afternoon – Scientific Centre & Kuwait Towers

Post-lunch, head to the Kuwait Scientific Centre. This fascinating centre boasts a large aquarium showcasing marine life from the Arabian Gulf, an IMAX Theatre, and a Discovery Place for children.

No visit to Kuwait is complete without stopping by the iconic Kuwait Towers. The landmark consists of three towers, the tallest giving a panoramic view of Kuwait city. Enjoy a coffee or snack in the rotating café and take in the mesmerizing cityscape.

Evening – Al Shaheed Park & Farewell Dinner at Arraya Centre

Wrap up your 48-hour stay with a visit to Al Shaheed Park, the largest urban park in Kuwait which features beautiful botanical gardens, two museums, a lake, and spectacular views of the Kuwait skyline.

Lastly, enjoy a farewell dinner at Arraya Centre, one of the city’s tallest buildings. Opt for a rooftop restaurant to relish your meal with a stunning, shimmering backdrop.

The Bottom Line

Two days in Kuwait might seem a brief time to explore, but with this itinerary, you can sample the traditional and modern aspects of this Arab nation. With its rich heritage, engaging culture, modern marvels, and warm hospitality, Kuwait promises a memorable visit that will leave you yearning for more. See you again next year?

Perhaps you’re heading to the UAE next? If so, don’t miss out on these traditional Emirati dishes you simply have to sample while you’re there!

“My House Is Always A Mess”: 7 Simple Renovation Tricks To Make Your House A Doddle To Clean

Editorial Team
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“My House Is Always A Mess”: 7 Simple Renovation Tricks To Make Your House A Doddle To Clean
Ideal for ensuring your home is easier to clean than ever…

We have all encountered those moments where we look at the lingering chaos in our homes and wonder how on earth we can ever get it under control. From stacks of paperwork scattered around the house to a cluttered kitchen that never quite feels clean, it can be more than a little overwhelming. 

Fear not, for your house needn’t be an eternal mess. For we have been there, dear reader, wading through clutter and spilling wine everywhere but down our gobs. Through lived experience, we’ve learnt a few things. Namely, these practical, smart renovation tricks that will make cleaning a doddle, but will also ensure your home exudes style and charm.

Install User-Friendly Tiles

One of the simplest and smartest ways to make your home easier to clean is by installing tiles. Not only do they introduce an element of class and sophistication to any room, but they are also a breeze to maintain.

The biggest advantage of tiles is that they are impressively resistant to spills and stains. All it takes is a quick wipe, and your surfaces are as good as new. Tiles also accumulate less dust and debris than carpets, making them ideal for those who suffer from allergies.

When choosing tiles, opt for ones with a matte finish to prevent visible fingerprints and water stains. Large format tiles can also be a good choice as fewer grout lines mean less cleaning!

And whilst this is a task that can of course be done DIY, you’ve come here seeking clean lines and smooth surfaces. For that reason, it might be smart to outsource this one to the professionals.

Read: 9 of Summer 2023’s biggest tile trends

Embrace Dark Coloured Throws On Sofas

Sofas and armchairs are integral parts of any home, but they can be magnets for mess. They gather everything from crumbs to pet hair and are often the star victims of spillage disasters. This is where darker coloured throws come in.

Dark throws do a splendid job of hiding stains, pet hair, and the like. Moreover, they instantly refresh your space, keeping it looking chic and well kept. They also allow you to embrace a new colour scheme or style without having to buy new furniture.

The throws can easily be thrown in the wash if they become too grimy, and, voila, your sofa looks as good as new in no time!

Read: 7 hacks for keeping your house smelling good when you have pets

Invest In Clever Storage Solutions

Clutter can significantly contribute to the feeling of a messy home. To combat this, incorporate clever storage solutions into your home renovation plans. Consider furniture with built-in storage, like ottomans or coffee tables with compartments.

A well-placed shelf or two can work wonders in maintaining order. It’s an affordable and stylish way to showcase your books, trinkets, or family photos whilst keeping them off surfaces where they might accumulate dust.

Easy-Clean Paint Can Be Your Best Friend

When embarking on your renovation journey, choosing an easy-clean paint for your walls can make all the difference. These special paints are designed to withstand cleaning products, allowing you to wipe away any marks or accidental spills with ease. Opt for a semi-gloss or high-gloss variety, particularly in rooms like kitchens and bathrooms, where messes are prone to happen.

Embrace A More Minimalist Design

A minimalist design focuses on the ‘less is more’ approach. Not only does this create a calming, uncluttered home environment, but it also significantly cuts down on your cleaning time. By reducing the number of unnecessary items in your home, you’ll have less to dust, less to clean, and more free time to enjoy your inviting, serene space.

Choose Stain-Resistant Fabrics & Materials

When choosing materials for your furniture, curtains or rugs, it pays to select fabrics that are easy to clean. Synthetic fibres generally resist stains better and can be cleaned easily compared to their natural counterparts. Microfibre, for instance, can mimic the look and feel of suede while being machine washable. 

Similarly, for kitchen counters or dining tables, engineered quartz is nonporous, making the cleaning process a cinch and keeping your kitchen smelling fresh. Go on; breathe it all in!

Create A Dedicated Space For Messy Activities

Whether it’s arts and crafts with the kids or DIY projects for the grown-ups, having a dedicated space for messy activities can help contain clutter and minimise clean-up. Consider creating a corner in your living room or a section of your garage or utility room with washable, waterproof mats, and ample storage options.

The Bottom Line

Implementing these simple renovation tips can go a long way in making the task of keeping your house clean a doddle. Remember, however, that every home is unique, and it’s essential to find solutions that work best for your specific circumstances. With a bit of planning, you can create a home that’s not only beautiful but also a breeze to maintain. Here’s to less mess and more style!

2024’s Biggest Travel Trend: 12 Types Of Wellness Retreat Currently Making Waves

Editorial Team
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2024’s Biggest Travel Trend: 12 Types Of Wellness Retreat Currently Making Waves
Ideal for taking a holiday that nourishes body and soul next year…

As our world continues to spin ever faster, with the pace of daily life giving whiplash to those trying to keep up, it feels as though many of us are looking for new ways to put the brakes on. 

And just like clockwork, here to cater to our increased desire for a type of escape not facilitated by substances, 2024’s travel trend spotlight has swivelled towards a slower, more mindful tourism sector – the wellness retreat. 

Once the preserve of the trustafarian who used to give impromptu sermons in the sixth form smoking area, now the wellness retreat has gone fully mainstream. But rather than lose any of their lustre, such holidays continue to adapt to the modern needs of the burnt out and weary, diversifying and accurising as increasing numbers look to pivot towards nourishing their mind, body, and spirit. Here are 12 types of wellness retreat currently making waves.

Digital Detox Retreats

Perhaps unsurprisingly in this stifling, hyper-connected age, digital detox retreats have surfaced as an antidote to our screen-dependent lives. With no Wi-Fi and limited tech usage, these retreats offer activities focusing on mindfulness, nature immersion, and creative pursuits. They’re ideal for rebooting your mind, reducing digital-induced stress, and rediscovering the joy of real-life connections.

Read: 9 IDEAL tips to help you digital detox in 2023

Sleep Optimisation Retreats 

A common casualty of our fast-paced lives is quality sleep. Enter sleep optimisation retreats, designed to reset your circadian rhythms and instil healthy sleep habits. 

This is more than just taking a nap. Here, pioneering sleep therapies are coupled with mindfulness practices and workshops about sleep nutrition and environment, giving guests the tools to continue better sleep practices at home.

Mindfulness Retreats

Mental health has taken centre stage in recent years. Wellness retreats focusing on mindfulness and meditation provide a nurturing environment for guests to explore their emotional landscape. Therapeutic activities such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga are combined with individual counselling and group therapy sessions.

Conscious Ageing Retreats

Age is more than just a number at conscious ageing retreats. These retreats are redefining the concept of ageing, encouraging individuals to embrace rather than dread their golden years. They promote physical health, mental agility, and spiritual connection, making ageing a truly holistic experience.

Ayurvedic Retreats

Ayurvedic retreats, most often hosted on the Indian subcontinent, offer deep healing by rebalancing the body’s doshas (essentially, the body’s energy types according to Ayurveda). Guests can anticipate personalised Ayurvedic meals, traditional remedies, yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic treatments.

Ecotherapy & Biomimicry Retreats

As the name suggests, ecotherapy retreats find healing in nature. They immerse guests in natural settings, facilitating activities like forest bathing, guided nature walks, and animal-assisted therapies. These retreats aim to restore our organic connection with Mother Earth, instigating a profound sense of wellbeing.

Biomimicry retreats, on the other hand, embrace the genius of nature’s designs and processes. These retreats take attendees into the heart of nature, using outdoor workshops and expeditions to inspire innovation and cultivate sustainable living practices. By studying and emulating nature’s time-tested patterns, guests can develop solutions that support their wellbeing and the health of our planet.

Genomic Wellness Retreats

With advancements in science, we’re unravelling the mysteries of our genes. A genomic wellness retreat leverages these insights to deliver personalised wellness plans. They combine DNA testing with other diagnostic tools to understand each guest’s unique health needs. It’s wellness taken to a cutting-edge level.

Mindful Eating & Weight Loss Retreats

Mindful eating retreats continue to make their mark in the wellness space. These retreats explore the relationship between food and wellbeing, encouraging guests to eat with intention and attention. They offer workshops on mindful cooking and eating, nutrition education, and food-foraging experiences.

Similarly, contemporary takes on weight loss retreats are growing traction. Gone are the days when weight loss retreats were merely about restrictive diets and gruelling workout routines. Gone are the days of brutal body shaming; modern weight loss retreats have revolutionised the philosophy of shedding pounds, emphasising a holistic approach that impacts both mind and body. 

These retreats combine personalised fitness programs, nutritious meals, and educational workshops to help guests understand their bodies better. 

Sober Curious Retreats

Sober curious retreats are designed for those seeking to redefine their relationship with alcohol. They offer an empowering environment for individuals to explore sobriety without judgement or pressure. 

These retreats offer a holistic approach to wellness, focusing on mindfulness, healthful nutrition, physical fitness, and community building in pursuit of a more balanced, less booze-focused lifestyle.

Sound Healing Retreats

Sound healing retreats utilise the therapeutic power of sound and vibrations to restore harmony between the body and mind. From ancient gong baths to modern sound bowls, these retreats offer a variety of immersive sonic experiences. They aim at achieving a deep state of relaxation, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and even physical pain.

Salt Floating Retreats

Salt floating retreats offer the unique experience of sensory deprivation in saltwater float tanks to promote deep relaxation and inner tranquillity. Known as flotation therapy, this practice allows the body and mind to relax in a soothing, almost weightless environment, helping to alleviate stress and promoting a sense of calm and rejuvenation.

Unsplash+ In collaboration with tabitha turner

Silent Retreats

Inspired by Vipassana meditation, silent retreats represent a powerful journey of self-discovery. By encouraging complete silence, they offer a respite from the constant chatter of our minds and the noise of everyday life. Participants engage in contemplative practices like meditation, yoga, and mindful walks, fostering deep introspection and a profound connection with the self.

The Bottom Line

The common thread running through these retreats is the shift from healing as an isolated event to incorporating wellness as part of our everyday lifestyle. These retreats instil skills and habits that individuals can take home, extending the retreat experience into their daily lives.

As we look towards a future where wellbeing is no longer a luxury but a necessity, these wellness retreats are paving the way for a balanced, mindful, and healthy way of life. And that’s something we can all get on board with, don’t you think?

What Causes Stretch Marks & How Best To Mitigate Their Appearance?

Editorial Team
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What Causes Stretch Marks & How Best To Mitigate Their Appearance?
Ideal for approaching your tiger stripes compassionately…

In the ever-evolving world of beauty standards, body positivity, and self-love, one topic that frequently pops up is stretch marks. These little badges of honour, or ‘tiger stripes’ as they are affectionately called, can bring forth a plethora of emotions, from pride to frustration, and everything in between. 

Understandably, many people harbor mixed feelings when it comes to stretch marks. These unique markings, which can make their appearance on various parts of the body, can evoke a broad spectrum of emotions. Some see them as badges of honor, proud symbols of their bodies’ adaptive nature. Others, however, may find them bothersome or unsightly, seeking different methods to minimise their visibility. 

Undoubtedly, the discussion around stretch marks is a complex one. Let’s dig a bit deeper into what causes stretch marks and how best to contend with their existence.

What Causes Stretch Marks?

Before we can battle our foe, we must understand it. Known scientifically as striae, stretch marks occur when our skin stretches or shrinks quickly, causing the supportive structures underneath (collagen and elastin) to rupture. This rapid change triggers the body’s healing process, which, while efficient, tends to leave behind scar-like formations known as stretch marks.

Essentially, think of it as your body trying to keep up with these sudden changes, but in the process, it leaves behind scar-like formations, which we know as stretch marks.

The circumstances that can lead to the appearance of stretch marks are quite varied. Rapid weight gain or loss can prompt their development, as can the growth spurts typically experienced during puberty. Intense strength training, which often involves building muscle mass quickly, can also lead to stretch marks. Pregnancy is perhaps the most well-known cause, with the majority of women developing stretch marks as their bodies adjust to accommodate their growing babies. 

In fact, up to 90% of women will face the appearance of stretch marks during their pregnancy journey.

Preventing Stretch Marks: Is it Possible?

Preventing stretch marks can be somewhat tricky as many of their prominent causes revolve around natural and often unavoidable life events. Additionally, genetics also play a key role – if your parents or close relatives had them, you might be more predisposed. 

But don’t feel disheartened, as this doesn’t mean you’re powerless. There are measures that can be taken to minimise the risk of stretch mark development. Drinking plenty of water, for example, keeps your skin hydrated and more pliable, lessening the likelihood of stretch mark formation. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins C, D, E, zinc, and protein is also beneficial, as these nutrients aid in maintaining skin health and potentially boosting its elasticity. Likewise, managing a steady, healthy weight can prevent the rapid skin stretching that tends to lead to stretch marks.

Such a diet might include:

  • Vitamin C: This vitamin is necessary for the production of collagen, a protein that helps maintain skin’s elasticity. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are all excellent sources of vitamin C. Other good sources include strawberries, kiwis, bell peppers, and leafy greens like spinach and kale.
  • Vitamin D: Often referred to as the ‘sunshine vitamin’, many of us get our dose of Vitamin D from sunlight. However, it’s also found in certain foods. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna are good sources, as are beef liver and egg yolks. Some mushrooms also provide vitamin D, and many dairy products are fortified with it.
  • Vitamin E: Known for its antioxidant properties, Vitamin E helps protect your skin from damage. Foods that are high in Vitamin E include seeds and nuts, spinach, and broccoli. You can also find it in avocados, shellfish, and fish like trout and salmon.
  • Zinc: This trace mineral is essential for skin health. High zinc foods include meat, shellfish, legumes like lentils and chickpeas, seeds, and nuts. Dairy products, especially cheese, also contain zinc.
  • Protein: Proteins are the building blocks of tissue – including skin tissue. Foods high in protein include poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts and seeds. Quinoa and soya products like tofu are also good sources of protein.

Managing The Appearance of Stretch Marks

Fear not, for those who already have stretch marks, there are numerous ways to help manage and reduce their appearance. Here’s a comprehensive look at some of the most effective solutions:

  • Topical Creams and Oils: Over-the-counter creams and oils containing ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E are thought by some to help improve the skin’s elasticity and reduce the visibility of stretch marks. However, consistency is crucial, so you must be patient and persistent with your application.
  • Professional Treatments: Some seeking stretch mark removal may look to professional treatments such as laser therapy, microdermabrasion, or microneedling. These procedures aim to stimulate collagen production, promoting the skin’s natural healing process and reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
  • Natural Remedies: Some folk swear by the power of natural remedies like aloe vera, coconut oil, and cocoa butter to help manage their stretch marks. While scientific evidence supporting these methods is limited, they offer a budget-friendly, low-risk option.

The Bottom Line

Stretch marks are a natural part of life that many of us will encounter. Although they can be managed and their appearance diminished, it is essential to remember that our bodies are ever-changing maps of our journeys – there is no shame in a few extra lines on the road. Ultimately the best way to manage them might be to embrace them, for they are proof of our resilience, growth, and the extraordinary ability of our bodies to adapt and transform.

*This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice. Before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle, please consult with a healthcare professional.*

In Need Of Some Xmas Present Inspo? 14 Christmas Gifts That Will Truly Surprise Him

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In Need Of Some Xmas Present Inspo? 14 Christmas Gifts That Will Truly Surprise Him
Ideal for festive gifts that show you truly care…

This is a sponsored article…

Yes, we’ve dropped the C bomb, as with Christmas just 89 sleeps away, perhaps you should be thinking about the sweetest of seasons, too.

As the festive season steadily approaches, the age-old question of the perfect Christmas gift once again springs to mind, as it does every bloody year without fail. If the man in your life seems to have all he needs, then it’s only natural that you might find yourself struggling to come up with an original idea that will genuinely surprise him. 

But worry not, here we have curated a list of 14 thoughtful presents with a twist of novelty, guaranteed to delight him this Christmas. And not a beard kit, personalised number plate or retro football kit in sight…

Smart Wine Cooler

Let’s kick things off with our first suggestion: a smart wine cooler. This is not just any ordinary wine cooler; it’s an upgrade. It maintains the perfect temperature for the wine, and some even offer dual zones for different types of wine. A smart wine cooler is ideal for the man who enjoys hosting or who has a keen interest in his vino, making it a perfect, unexpected surprise. 

And the best news? There are plenty of deals bobbing about at the moment. So, why not score a luxurious wine cooler this Black Friday… You’ll benefit from perfectly chilled wine, too!

Read: The IDEAL guide to serving wine at the right temperature

Hands-On Cooking Classes

Is he an aspiring Jamie Oliver or Gordon Ramsay? Regardless of his culinary prowess, a cooking class tailored to his favourite cuisine gives him the opportunity to learn, create, and enjoy the fruits of his labour. It’s fun, experiential, and far more engaging than yet another kitchen gadget.

Read: 5 of the best celebrity cooking schools in the UK

BioLite Camp Stove 2

If he enjoys the great outdoors, this unique gift could be right up his path. The BioLite Camp Stove 2 doesn’t just cook meals and boil water, it also converts heat into usable electricity to charge his devices, earning it the title of ‘’world’s most energy efficient stove”.

Customised 3D Map

Does he have a favourite city? With a customised 3D map, he can display his love for his preferred location in an aesthetic and chic style. It’s a thoughtful art piece that’s sure to garner admiration and spark conversation.

Personalised Whisky Barrel

If whisky is more his style, a personalised oak barrel will make his eyes light up. It not only ramps up the sophistication level of his home bar but also allows him to age his own spirits to his taste.

Luxury Skincare Set

Because men deserve pampering too. A luxury skincare set ensures he takes care of his skin just as well as he takes care of other aspects in his life. Some luxury skincare brands for men in the UK include Elemis Men, Clinique for Men, Kiehl’s, Tom Ford, and House 99 by David Beckham.

High-Performance Drone

Drones are insanely fun, regardless of whether he’s a professional photographer or just an enthusiast. Sleek design, easy controls, and breathtaking aerial footage – enough to bring out the child in him!

Indoor Plant Subscription

Add a touch of greenery to his space; an indoor plant subscription that sends a new plant, complete with care tutorial, every month. It’s a unique gift for the environmentally conscious man that grows over time.

Luxury Cashmere Pyjamas

Our final suggestion is a luxurious set of cashmere pyjamas. Soft, warm, and undeniably comfortable, cashmere pyjamas offer cosy comfort that he didn’t know he needed until he unwraps them.

Tailored Suit Experience

If he appreciates fine fashion, consider gifting him a tailored suit experience. This goes beyond just a new suit. It’s an entire journey of selecting the right fabric, getting measured, fitting sessions, and finally owning a suit that fits him perfectly. Now, that’s a gift he won’t see coming!

Read: 6 chic and stylish alternatives to the traditional men’s suit

Virtual Reality Headset

For someone who loves technology, a virtual reality headset can be an exhilarating gift. He could experience games, movies, and various other virtual reality experiences right from the comfort of his home.

Home Bartending Kit

For the man who likes to mix up his own cocktails, a high-quality home bartending kit would make a thoughtful gift. Even better if it includes a cocktail recipe book to help him experiment with new mixes.

Personalised Leather Journal

If he loves to pen down his thoughts, a personalised leather journal makes a perfect gift. It’s a unique piece that he can carry along, keep record of his thoughts, and reminisce in the years to come.

Ukulele Lessons

If he has a penchant for music or has always dreamed of learning a musical instrument, why not gift him Ukulele lessons? It’s a fun, easy-to-learn instrument, and he can serenade you with his newfound skills by New Year’s Eve!

The Bottom Line

So, there you have it, 14 Christmas gifts that are sure to surprise and delight him. Remember, gifts are not just tangible objects to be wrapped and presented, they are expressions of love and thoughtfulness. This festive season, let these gifts speak volumes about your love and appreciation for him. Merry Christmas!

14 Must Try, Iconic Eating & Drinking Experiences In Italy

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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14 Must Try, Iconic Eating & Drinking Experiences In Italy
Ideal for the ultimate culinary tour of Bel Paese…

We don’t need to tell you that Italian cuisine is so much more than just pizza and pasta. Each region in Italy, from Lombardy in the north to Sicily in the south, offers its own unique culinary treasures that are steeped in centuries-old traditions, offering a true treat to the palates of food lovers worldwide. 

With this in mind, here’s our roundup of iconic eating and drinking experiences in Italy that you should experience at least once in your life.

Eating Pizza In Naples With A Knife & Fork 

We had to start here, in the the birthplace of pizza, Naples. So revered is pizza here that it’s often said that the fathers of Italy want their sons to become one of two things; a footballer for Napoli or a pizzaioli – that’s a pizza chef to you and I. 

Eating an authentic Neapolitan pizza in Naples is a religious experience. There’s the heavenly fresh Neapolitan ingredients; think San Marzano tomatoes and the juiciest mozzarella. Then there’s the soft, digestible crust blistered and burnished in all the right places. And let’s not forget the omnipresent AVPN, or ‘pizza gods’, as we like to call them, making sure that each and every pizza is the best that they can be. 

For those unfamiliar with the AVPN, they are (in our eyes) deities with a mission to promote and protect the authentic Neapolitan pizza, or “Verace Pizza Napoletana,” both in Italy and across the wider world.

Of course, there’s a plethora of pizzerias boasting authentic Neapolitan pizza. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose where to enjoy the perfect slice. The easiest way to spot a good pizzeria in the City of Sun is to look for Vera Pizza signs given by the The True Neapolitan Pizza Association (AVPN) above restaurant doors.

Alternatively, we’ve rounded up our picks of the the top 10 pizzerias in Naples to make things easier for you!

One final thing; pizza here is typically eaten with a knife and fork in restaurants. Simply start from the inner part of the pizza and work your way outwards, towards the crust. It’s also common to fold your pizza like a wallet and eat it on the go. When in Naples, as they say!

Sipping On Limoncello Along The Amalfi Coast

There’s only one way to experience the best limoncello in the world, and that is via Amalfi Drive. Enjoying a chilled glass of this light, citrus-scented liqueur while overlooking the stunning Amalfi coastline is a quintessential Italian summer experience, and one that needs to be tried in person.

That said, the lemon industry that makes limoncello is under threat threat due to industrialisation, changes in society and climate change. Unfortunately, the lemon grove areas dotted along the Amalfi coast have been in decline for the past 60 years.

However (and hopefully), as Tasting Table recently reported, an initiative called “Lemon Tours” has recently been launched in Amalfi.

They highlight that “tours have begun so that tourists to Amalfi can see the region’s famous Sfusato Amalfitano, which is also known as the Amalfi Coast lemon, and help revitalize the dying industry.” 

The revered Amalfi Lemon (Sfusato Amalfitano), is, of course, the source of limoncello, but without the support of the tourist Euro, lemon farming is proving increasingly unsustainable. So, do your part, and go and take a lemon tour, drink plenty of limoncello and don’t forget to bring home a bottle of lemon-scented sunshine back for us!

Wine Tasting In Chianti

Between Florence and Siena, the Chianti region is Tuscany’s wine-making powerhouse. Wine tasting in Chianti is a must-try experience for anyone with a passion for viniculture.

Chianti is famed for its robust, complex wines, particularly its iconic Chianti Classico. Each vineyard has a distinct character which results in various blends of Sangiovese grapes, the superstar of this wine region.

Trying this wine in its birthplace allows you to truly appreciate its nuances. The experience transcends the realms of mere tasting and becomes an immersive voyage of sun-soaked vineyards, centuries-old cellars, and the ancient art of wine production.

Accordingly, there are plenty of Italy tour companies offering wine tasting experiences where you learn about the stringent regulations that make Chianti wines so special – from specific grape varietals the to ageing processes. There’s also the incredible landscape – rolling hills, medieval castles, and verdant vineyards – which adds an unforgettable backdrop to your wine-tasting journey.

Trying The Famous Four Pastas Of Rome

When in Rome, do as the Romans do, and that means eating lots of pasta. There are four pasta dishes that dominate this city and are culinary constants, all of which are renowned globally, with each a variation on the other.

Firstly, we have carbonara, a creamy delight concocted from eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale, and a twist of black pepper. Then there’s Cacio e Pepe, a deceptively simple yet flavour-filled dish made with pecorino cheese and black pepper. Next up is Amatriciana, where guanciale sings in a gutsy tomato sauce, topped with pecorino and traditionally tossed through sturdy bucatini. Completing the line up is Gricia, which is a happy meeting of the melted fat of guanciale, grated pecorino, and an exercise in simplicity.

Many of us have experienced the omnipresent bastardised versions of these four pastas here in the UK. However, to try the real deal is another experience all together. 

Read: 5 steps to the perfect spaghetti carbonara

Enjoying An Aperitivo In Milan 

The Italian tradition of aperitivo was born in the bustling city of Milan in the 19th century. Essential to Italian culture, the aperitivo is more than just a pre-dinner drink, it’s a quintessential Italian experience, a celebration of leisure and conviviality.

Aperitivo takes its roots from Antonio Benedetto Carpano, the inventor of Vermouth in Turin, who had the novel idea to start serving his sweet, fortified wine as a ‘pre-opening’ to dinner. The culture then spread to Milan where it was welcomed with open arms and incorporated into the lifestyle of the Milanesi. It’s traditionally served wide array of snacks, from olives and chips to small tapas-style dishes.

Aperitivo is not merely about food and drink, but it’s also a time to converse, to engage, and to unwind. This ritual is a reflection of the Italian way of life – where pleasure, food, and friends come together. It’s a tradition that paints a vivid picture of the Italian ethos; to savour life’s moments, big and small.

Trying True Modena Balsamic In Bologna

If there is one thing the fine people of Modena cannot live without, it’s aceto balsamico tradizionale di Modena; the traditional balsamic vinegar flows through their veins. It’s nothing like the commercial, watered down balsamic vinegar that you find on supermarket shelves on our shores. 

Made from the unfermented juice of fully ripened white grapes, to be designated ‘traditional’ balsamic vinegar from Modena must be aged for a minimum of 12 years. To merit the gold label, it must be aged for a staggering 25 years. The result of this lengthy ageing is an intense, complex and sweetly mellow balsamic with such a concentrated flavour that just a few drops is all you need.

The last Sunday in September is the ideal time to visit Modena and pick up a bottle of ‘black gold’. It’s when Acetaie Aperte, which translates to open vinegar cellars, happens.

This is an annual festival where many of the local producers of aceto balsamico tradizionale di Modena open their doors to the public, allowing visitors to see the production process of balsamic vinegar. Visitors can taste different types of vinegar, learn about the history and culture of this regionally significant product, and often purchase the vinegar directly from the producers. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Museo del Balsamico Tradizionale just outside of Modena in the town of Spilamberto. 

Bistecca Alla Fiorentina In Florence

Tuscan-style steak is a meat lover’s dream. Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a T-bone steak which packs bags of deep, rich flavour owing to its marbling and even distribution of fat, is the main draw here.

And with good reason. Cooked over hot coals and traditionally served rare, Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a celebration of quality beef and rustic cooking methods. Usually shared between two, it’s advisable to bring a friend (or a hearty appetite!). Pair it with a local red wine for a truly unforgettable meal.

Read: How to eat like a local in Tuscany

Truffle Hunting In Piedmont

In the Piedmont region, truffles are a prized delicacy. Joining a truffle hunting tour, led by experienced guides and their trained dogs, is a unique and exciting way to experience this aspect of Italian gastronomy. The hunt is usually followed by a truffle-based meal, a perfect end to the adventure.

Squid Risotto In Venice 

By Africa Images via Canva

In the winding waterways of Venice, an iconic culinary experience awaits – squid risotto or Risotto al Nero di Seppia. This sumptuous dish mirrors the serene elegance of the city, presenting a fascinating blend of earthy rice punctuated by the robust, briny flavour of squid. 

What sets it apart is the squid ink, imparting a unique black hue and an intense sea-salt essence. The creaminess of the risotto, cooked al dente, balances the profound notes of the squid, resulting in a velvety mouthfeel and plenty of umami.

Sipping Espresso Standing Up

The espresso experience is not merely about coffee, but a cherished ritual central to the Italian lifestyle. Indeed, in Italy, coffee isn’t just about getting a caffeine fix – it’s a ritual and part of the culture and daily life. Most Italians start their day with a quick shot of espresso.

In Italy, when you order an espresso, you simply order “un caffè” (a coffee). Also, Italians typically enjoy their espresso standing up at the bar, rather than sitting at a table. An espresso should be drunk while it’s hot, usually within a couple of minutes of being made.

It’s considered bad manners to linger and sip on your espresso. Italians rarely, if ever, take their coffee to go. Coffee drinking is seen as a moment to pause and enjoy, rather than something to be consumed on the go.

Olive Oil Tasting

Italy is renowned for its olive oil, and participating in a tasting is a great way to appreciate this staple of Italian cuisine. From Liguria to Tuscany, many regions offer guided tastings where you can learn about the production process and discern the subtle differences between varieties. Wherever you are in the country (except, perhaps, the butter-led north), you’ll find the glorious green drop being celebrated. We could bathe in the stuff.

Pasta Con Le Sarde In Sicily

Pasta con le Sarde is a distinctive and traditional Sicilian dish that truly encapsulates the unique flavours and culinary history of the region. Essentially, it’s pasta with sardines, but really, it’s so much more than that. Where things get interesting is the addition of raisins and pine nuts, attributed to North African historical influences, and seafood friendly wild fennel, which grows abundantly on the island. This dish is deeply entrenched in Sicilian history and culture, and is especially popular during the La Festa Di San Giuseppe, which happens in mid March. Visit during this festival for the finest sardines around.

Walking The Prosecco Fields

In the rolling hills of Veneto, you’ll find the vineyards that produce Prosecco, Italy’s famous sparkling wine. Walking through these lush fields, you can witness the grape cultivation process firsthand. The experience culminates with a visit to a local winery where you can taste the fruits of the region’s labour.

Gelato Tasting

Finally, no trip to Italy would be complete without luxuriating in authentic Italian gelato. The best gelato is usually made fresh daily, so look for places displaying the sign ‘Produzione Propria’ or ‘Fatta in Casa’, which indicates in-house production.

While you can get amazing gelato all over Italy, perhaps our favourite spot of all is Ciampini, in Rome, who have been serving up heavenly gelato since 1941. Their must-try flavour is the classic, pure, and perfectly sweet Roman Hazelnut. It is, quite honestly, the best ice cream we’ve ever had.

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