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5 Ways A Pet Can Improve Both Your Physical & Mental Health

Editorial Team
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5 Ways A Pet Can Improve Both Your Physical & Mental Health

For pet owners everywhere, the benefits of having an animal in the home are obvious; they raise your mood when you’re down, they offer much needed companionship in the lonelier hours, and they provide great comfort and security, both in a physical sense and in a more symbolic, allegorical way.

That’s all well, good and tangible, but the plus points of having a pet extend far beyond the tired old trope of being ‘man’s best friend’. Yes, having animals around the home can bring a positive impact on both your mental and physical wellbeing. So, here are 5 ways a pet can improve your health.

A Natural Mood Enhancer

Pets are natural mood enhancers. If you’ve never owned a pet, that may sound very strange indeed, but it’s true – people with pets are, studies show, generally happier than those without. They are less lonely, and trust more. The responsibility bestowed on the owner brings with it a sense of purpose.

It goes further; making sure your pet is healthy and in good shape with long and frequent walks, keeping an eye on nutrition, and arranging the necessary appointments at the vet, all bring with them a sense of achievement and pride.

And all that exercise you get when out walking your dog? Well, that’s great for your mood, too, with Better Health reporting that a regular brisk walk with your pup leads to ”improved cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, stronger muscles and bones (built up by walking regularly), and decreased stress”.

When it comes to mental health, pets can certainly improve things by giving their owners positive mental energy, and raising serotonin and dopamine levels, whilst at the same time decreasing cortisol. The effect is less stress and anxiety, and more happiness. And we could all do with a bit of that, couldn’t we?

A Boost To The Immune System

Having a pet may also boost your immune system, and here’s why; exposure to your dog’s slobber could keep your immune system working, functioning and strong. We’ve all heard the ‘hygiene hypothesis’ about how over-cleanliness is actually bad for us. Well, exposure to a little bacteria on our dogs is the perfect antidote to this.

Read: 7 tips for keeping your dog happy and healthy in 2022

Good For The Heart, Good For The Soul

Research has shown that having a pet in the house (especially a dog) can reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve the owner’s longevity. People with pets are calmer, and that means lower blood pressure. Interestingly, cholesterol levels in pet owners are also often much lower than in those without an animal at home.  

Away from the physical, pets are also incredibly nourishing for the soul, providing companionship and devotion without judgement. We could all use a bit of that from time to time, don’t you think?

A Facilitator Of Increased, Meaningful Human Interaction

Pets will certainly improve your social life. It could be in a physical sense; walking your dog every day at the same time, along with other dog walkers, will allow you to meet people whilst out and about. It could also be in a virtual sense; there are many forums and online groups for pet owners, sometimes they are general, sometimes they are for a specific animal or breed of animal.

Animals are fantastic conversation starters as well, so if you’re at a party, and you’re not sure what to talk about, why not bring up the subject of your pet or pets, enabling a friendly, informal chat with like-minded people with no issues at all.

A Calming Influence On Children With Autism & ADHD

It’s not just adults who can benefit from owning a pet. Pets of all shapes and sizes are also helpful to children who are living autism or ADHD. Children who are affected by these conditions often have sensory divergences, and that makes interacting with people a problem. Animals, however, seem to be able to hold the children’s attention, calming them and allowing them to be more present and involved in the current situation.

Similar benefits have been suggested for seniors, particularly those who have recently been widowed, with the shared companionship hugely meaningful in a person (and a pup’s!) later years. Well that’s one way to tackle the loneliness epidemic, hey?

If you’re wondering what breed would be the best fit for children, seniors or just about anyone in between, then check out our guide to the 7 IDEAL dog breeds to best suit your lifestyle. And after all this talk, we’re off to walk ours!

*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP first*

How To Choose The Perfect Bottle Of Wine In A Restaurant

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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How To Choose The Perfect Bottle Of Wine In A Restaurant

…IDEAL for impressing dates, business clients or, well, yourself.

In today’s flourishing wine climate, more grape varieties and excellent, interesting wines are available than ever before. However, where there is choice, there is also confusion – that pesky paradox, if you will – and the world of wine can be an intimidating and complex one, to say the least.

Whilst we all can’t be sommeliers well versed in all aspects of wine, there are ways and means to appear conversant in grape, fermentation and noble rot, so you can navigate a restaurant’s wine list like a pro. With that in mind, here’s our guide on how to choose the perfect bottle of wine in a restaurant, IDEAL for impressing dates, business clients or, well, yourself.

Focus On The Wines You Know You Like

Perhaps the simplest way to navigate a wine list is by honing in on the wines you know you like. Whilst most wine novices of course have a handle on the basic differences between red, white and sparkling wine, and what food they pair with, a good starting point beyond that is to understand the most important grapes under each category. 

If you know you prefer white wine, for example, try to understand which different white grape varieties, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, are your thing.

Next, it’s useful to know whether, in general, you prefer wines on the dryer end of the scale, or if off-dry and sweeter stuff is more your jam. Ultimately, you don’t need to know if a wine is ‘balanced’ or ‘supple’, if the finish is ‘long’ or if ‘melon’ is detectable on the nose, you just need to know that you’ll enjoy drinking it. Having a grape name and a level of dryness in your vernacular will have you looking fairly knowledgeable from the off.

What Grows Together Goes Together

Consider these wise words which you can find on Oddbins‘ blog; ”As any sommelier with his or her salt will tell you, the aim of food and wine matching is all about enhancing the guest’s experience.”

Indeed, wine culture and culinary heritage tend to have a symbiotic relationship, so it’ll help to think in terms of regional origins. Be warned; simply opting for an Italian wine for an Italian-inspired meal can seem like the obvious choice rather than expert decision. To navigate a wine list like a professional, get specific with your geographical knowledge. 

So, if a dish has a broadly Mediterranean bent, you might choose a wine from Sicily. Or, if someone on your table has ordered ratatouille, then a Cote de Provence rose would pair magically, since the dish is from the Provence region. If all else fails, mention the word ‘terroir’ several times in terms of everything you’re consuming.

Read: 5 beginners tips for pairing wine with food

Age Matters

Typically, as vintages get older, the wine becomes more expensive, though it’s certainly not true that all wine gets better exponentially with age. But as a general rule it’s worth noting, since as wine is stored over time, it loses its tannins and acidity which are often unappealing in taste. Whilst it’s up to you how much cash you splash, if there’s only a modest price difference between two vintages, it’s usually worth going for the slightly more expensive option as there will be a notable difference on the finish. 

Focus on wine regions that also overdeliver for their price. For example, if you like ripe, bold reds, Chile and Argentina are worth considering, alongside Spanish reds like Rioja. German Riesling and Spatburgunder (a synonym for Pinot Noir in Germany) is also good too.

Don’t Worry About The Pronuncation

The pronunciations of dozens of wines can be intimidating and complex. Whilst there is the old ‘point and show’ method, it can make you look a little baffled. For a more finessed approach to ordering, just name the vintage, the winemaker and the grape. For example, instead of “Domaine Chanson Chablis Montee de Tonnerre 1er Cru 2012”, try altering it to “the 2012 Chanson Chablis” for ease (and a sense that you’re a bit suave). If the sommelier needs clarification, they’ll ask for it. Or, you could just order however you feel, because, well, you’re giving them your money.

The Sommelier Is There To Help

A sommelier is largely in charge of creating and updating a restaurant’s wine list, so who better to ask when navigating your way through? A sommelier’s job is to also recommend the best wine and food pairings to guests, so be assured that there is someone to assist you in your choices.

Don’t be afraid to ask sommeliers “what is this wine like?” as it’s incredibly rare that a customer will be familiar with all the wines on the list, including the sommelier in many cases. It’s also an incredibly skilled job requiring vast knowledge, and it’s a real joy to listen to a sommelier extol the virtues of a particular wine poetically. The whole restaurant experience benefits from this, so do ask, even if you already know!

If you’re considering enjoying your wine from the comfort of home instead of heading to a restaurant, then check out these 5 IDEAL wine pairings for the UK’s favourite takeaways. Ours is a Neapolitan, by the way. Extra anchoves…

How To Know If You Have Gallstones – & How To Treat Them

Editorial Team
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How To Know If You Have Gallstones – & How To Treat Them

Gallstones… It’s certainly a dramatic, traumatic sounding development within the body. Fortunately, for the majority of sufferers, gallstones – small stones made of cholesterol that form in the gallbladder – needn’t be a major concern. As the NHS advise, ‘’In most cases, they do not cause any symptoms and do not need to be treated.’’

Indeed, most of those who have gallstones will never know they even have them – and they will never require treatment. But a certain percentage of individuals with gallstones do need to be treated, usually if they are causing problems that affect your everyday life, such as sudden episodes of intense pain in the upper portion of the abdomen, as they can sometimes bring on.

You’re probably wondering, three paragraphs in, how to know if you have gallstones, and, if you do, how to treat them. Let’s find out…

The Symptoms Of Gallstones

Firstly, how do you actually know if you have gallstones? Well, primarily, if you do show any symptoms, it will be in the form of sudden and severe abdominal pain, which can last up to 5 hours, though often it’s for a much shorter period. This will only occur intermittently, perhaps every few weeks, and may be triggered by the consumption of fatty foods.

Crucially, this pain isn’t relieved by going to the toilet or vomiting, though it may be accompanied by nausea.

Read: 5 benefits of an air fryer over deep fat frying and ovens

The Diagnoses Of Gallstones

The cause of gallstones is still up for some debate, but it is thought that they are caused by a chemical imbalance in the bile inside your gallbladder.

Often, gallstones are not felt – rather, they are diagnosed through different procedures. These include the following:

An abdominal ultrasound is the most common test involving a device (a transducer) moving across the tummy area. The transducer transmits computer signals which develop images of the abdominal structure. 

An endoscopic ultrasound – the EUS, as it is also known, identifies tinier stones that an abdominal ultrasound may have missed. During the procedure, a specialist passes a tube called an endoscope through the patient’s mouth and to the digestive tract. A transducer within the tube then emits sound waves that produce an image of the tissue around it. 

Other tests – a series of different tests can be done, and these include a HIDA scan, CT scan, oral cholecystography, an MRCP, or an ERCP. When gallstones are discovered using ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography), it is possible to have them removed right then and there. 

Alternatively, a blood test can determine if the patient has jaundice, an infection, pancreatitis, and other gallstone-related complications, leading to a conclusion that gallstones are the likely cause.

The Treatment Of Gallstones

As mentioned, many individuals with gallstones will not experience symptoms and will never require treatment. That said, as the specialists at Londonsurgicalgroup.co.uk tell us, a small number of people suffering with gallstones may experience complications should the gallstones move into a different part of the digestive system or block a bile duct. 

For those people, as well as those who have a condition that increases their risk of complications, such as liver cirrhosis, high blood pressure in the liver, or diabetes, a several treatment options for gallstones are available:

  • Surgery – You may undergo surgery that removes your gallbladder, called a cholecystectomy. Most specialists recommend the removal of the gallbladder, mainly because it is easy for gallstones to recur. In addition, bile stored in the gallbladder will flow straight to the small intestine from the liver when the gallbladder is taken out.  

It should be noted that people don’t actually need their gallbladders; removing the gallbladder does not affect food digestion. It may cause diarrhoea, but the effects are only temporary. 

  • Medication – you also have the option of taking an oral medication, but the problem with this treatment is that it may take many months – or even several years – before your gallstones get dissolved, and again, it’s best to remember that gallstones can form once more if there is no more treatment. Generally speaking, medication for gallstones (most often ursodeoxycholic acid tablets if your gallstones don’t contain calcium) isn’t as effective as surgery.
  • Monitoring – For less serious cases and for those not at a heightened risk of complications, active monitoring of any associated symptoms is recommended. 

The Bottom Line

Whilst they may sound serious, diagnosis and treatment of gallstones needn’t be a huge concern to the vast majority. That said, because of the risk of complications, it’s essential you see your GP if you suspect you might be suffering from them.

*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP or specialist health professional first*

9 Essential Experiences In Baden-Baden, Germany

Editorial Team
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9 Essential Experiences In Baden-Baden, Germany

For those based in the UK and of a certain vintage, Baden-Baden will be familiar. Not for its regional speciality, Black Forest Gateau, its winding mountainous hiking trails or multitude of spa resorts, but as the scene of England’s 2006 World Cup failure – Rooney, Ronaldo, winks et al – and perhaps more infamously, the pinnacle of the WAG era.

But these memories of misbehaviour are incongruous with the soul of this lovely little town located on the French-German border. Here, immense yet understated luxury and a picture-perfect backdrop attracts discerning travellers looking for something lowkey and relaxing, immersed in the hillside forests far from the hustle and bustle of the world below. If this sounds like your sort of thing, then read on; here are five essential experiences in Baden-Baden.

Indulge In Black Forest Culinary Traditions

The Black Forest Gateau may be the region’s most Instagram-worthy export, but Baden-Baden’s culinary scene offers far more than just this famous dessert. While the traditional cake remains a must-try (head to Café König for the most authentic version), the city has evolved into a gastronomic destination in its own right.

Sample modern interpretations of Baden-Württemberg classics at Fritz & Felix, where traditional dishes like Badisches Schäufele (smoked pork shoulder) are given contemporary twists. During winter, warm up with house-made Kartoffelsuppe at the historic Heiligenstein restaurant, where they’ve perfected this creamy potato soup over generations. For an elevated dining experience, book ahead for Le Jardin de France, whose innovative take on Franco-German cuisine has earned its Michelin star.

Experience Contemporary Culture At Museum Frieder Burda

Yes, Museum Frieder Burda remains Baden-Baden’s cultural cornerstone, but today it’s more than just an art museum. The Richard Meier-designed building now hosts interactive installations, digital art exhibitions, and collaborative projects with emerging artists alongside its prestigious permanent collection. The museum has embraced technology with an excellent audio guide app and regular evening events that combine art, music, and local wine tastings. Entry is €18, but free on the last Friday of each month.

Explore The Revitalised Oos Riverside

The Oos River corridor has been thoughtfully developed into a vibrant urban space while maintaining its natural charm. The historic Lichtentaler Allee remains the star attraction, but new additions have enhanced the experience. The recently completed riverside cycling path connects major attractions, with electric bike rentals available at several points. The Gonneranlage rose garden has been expanded to include a butterfly sanctuary, and the new Baden-Baden Art Mile features rotating outdoor installations along the riverbank.

Don’t miss the biergartens offering craft beers from local mikrobrauereien alongside traditional favourites. Some even host local jazz shows at the weekend. Prost!

Read: Is it culturally appropriate to wear lederhosen to Oktoberbest?

Visit The Modernised Casino Baden-Baden

The Casino Baden-Baden has carefully balanced its Belle Époque charm with modern amenities. While the historic rooms maintain their original splendour, a new wing houses contemporary gaming options and a stylish cocktail lounge. The casino now offers digital gaming tutorials for beginners, table and slot games aplenty, and hosts regular poker tournaments that attract players from across Europe.

The Grill restaurant has been reimagined as a sustainable dining destination, focusing on locally-sourced ingredients and Baden-Württemberg wines. Even if gambling isn’t your thing, the guided architecture tours (available in multiple languages) offer fascinating insights into the building’s history and restoration.

Embrace Culture At The Festspielhaus

Germany’s largest concert hall has evolved into a dynamic cultural centre. Beyond classical concerts, the Festspielhaus now hosts contemporary performances, international theatre productions, and innovative cross-genre experiments. The venue’s commitment to accessibility includes multilingual subtitles for operas and real-time translation services for selected performances.

The newly opened Festspielhaus Lounge offers pre-show dining with panoramic views of the Black Forest, and the venue’s app provides everything from digital programmes to last-minute ticket deals.

Travel Tip: Consider visiting during the Advent season when Baden-Baden transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with one of Germany’s most atmospheric Christmas markets. The combination of thermal spas, cultural events, and festive atmosphere makes it an ideal winter break destination.

Luxuriate In Thermal Spas

No visit to Baden-Baden is complete without experiencing its famous thermal waters. While the historic Friedrichsbad remains gloriously traditional with its 17-step Roman-Irish bathing ritual, the modernised Caracalla Therme now offers a contemporary wellness experience. The newly added rooftop infinity pool provides spectacular Black Forest views, while the digital wellness app helps you plan your perfect spa journey. Book the early-bird session (8:00-10:00) for a more serene experience and reduced rates.

Hike The Premium Black Forest Trails

To work off the gateau, you’ve got to hike the trails…

Baden-Baden’s surrounding Black Forest has been made more accessible with the introduction of the Premium Trail network. The Panoramaweg, a 40km circular route divided into convenient stages, offers some of the best views in the region. Download the Black Forest Trails app for offline maps, difficulty ratings, and points of interest. The new Baden-Baden Trekking Hub at Merkur Mountain provides equipment rental and guided tours, making it easier for casual hikers to explore safely.

Visit The Museum Of Art & Technology (LA8)

Housed in a converted industrial building, this innovative museum (commonly referred to as LA8) showcases the intersection of art and technology. Interactive exhibits demonstrate Baden-Baden’s technological heritage, from its early spa mechanisms to modern digital art installations. The highlight is the Virtual Reality Chamber, where visitors can experience a 360-degree journey through the Black Forest’s seasons. Book online for the popular weekend workshops combining traditional Black Forest crafts with modern technology.

Experience The Local Wine Culture

The Baden wine region is Germany’s third-largest, and Baden-Baden serves as an excellent base for exploration. The recently established Baden-Baden Wine Route connects several urban vineyards and wine bars, offering a self-guided tour of the region’s viticultural heritage. 

Don’t miss the Wine & Design quarter, where contemporary wine bars like Vinothek am Steinbach pair local wines with tapas-style regional specialities. The tourist office offers a digital wine passport that includes tastings at participating venues and discounts on bottle purchases.

And if one just isn’t enough, then check out our guide to some of the world’s other best wine hikes.

Getting There: Baden-Baden is now even more accessible with direct trains from Paris (under 4 hours) and regular connections from Frankfurt Airport (under 2 hours). The new Baden Airpark offers flights from several UK cities during peak season.

5 IDEAL Reasons To Design A Bespoke Engagement Ring

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL Reasons To Design A Bespoke Engagement Ring

So you’re planning to propose? Congratulations! Now it’s time to start thinking about that all-important symbol of your love and commitment — the engagement ring. 

There are certainly a lot of things to consider when picking out the perfect engagement ring. And while you could of course head to a jewellery shop and pick out a pre-made ring, there are plenty of great reasons to design a bespoke engagement ring instead. 

We’d all love that unique, one-of-a-kind ring, and the knowledge that no one else in the world has one, right? Having one designed specifically to suit your very personal set of preferences and sense of style is the dream for many. 

We’re not the only ones who think so. As reported in Harper’s Bazaar, there is a “growing need for custom engagement rings, especially those that were not necessarily made in the conventional materials, like platinum or diamond”. 

So  if you’re on the hunt for a ring and wondering if a bespoke engagement ring is the right choice, then this guide is for you.

What Is A Bespoke Engagement Ring? 

Bespoke engagement rings are all the rage these days. If you’re considering popping the question, you may wonder if a customised ring is right for you and your significant other.

A bespoke engagement ring is a custom-made ring specifically designed for the person you are proposing to. Unlike a traditional engagement ring, which is mass-produced, a custom ring is made to order according to your specifications. 

This means you can choose everything from the metal, to the stones, to the ring’s overall design. The end product is a unique engagement ring that perfectly symbolises your love. 

Reasons to Choose a Bespoke Engagement Ring

It’s Unique 

Who says your engagement ring has to look like everyone else’s? When you design an engagement ring, you get the opportunity to let your creativity shine and create a one-of-a-kind symbol of love for you and your partner. 

This level of personalised design allows for endless possibilities, whether incorporating a family heirloom or selecting stones that hold special meaning for the two of you. 

Plus, with a custom-designed ring, there’s no chance of seeing another identical one on someone else’s hand. So why settle for cookie-cutter when you can have something truly unique?

It Tells Your Love Story 

A bespoke engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewellery; it represents your love story, too. When you work with a professional jeweller to design the perfect ring, they’ll help you incorporate elements that are significant to you as a couple. 

You may want to include each other’s birthstones, for example, or another gemstone with meaning in the design, or maybe you want to use diamonds from your grandmother’s old ring or another heirloom piece of jewellery. 

Having a customised ring is more special, as you’ll know it’s unique to your partner and your love story, and also that no one else has the same ring on their finger anywhere in the world. 

You Can Make It Eco-friendly 

When buying jewellery, there’s more to consider than just the design and price. The materials and processes used can harm the environment and even contribute to human rights violations. Fortunately, designing your own engagement ring gives you the power to make sustainable choices. 

You can choose recycled gold or opt for conflict-free, lab-grown diamonds that are just as beautiful as mined ones. Should you be going for a traditional diamond, it’s absolutely essential that you ensure your diamond is KPCS certified. The Kimberley Process (KP) and their Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) is an international certification scheme that regulates trade in rough diamonds. The organisation are doing fantastic work in making sure the diamond trade is as ethical as possible.

By taking the time to find eco-friendly materials, you’re making a responsible decision for the planet and your future as a couple. 

You Can Stay Within Your Budget

One of the biggest questions around engagement rings is how much you spend on the ring. This can make shopping for an engagement ring a daunting experience, as the cost of diamonds and other materials can quickly add up. 

However, designing your ring can give you better control over costs. Working with a skilled jeweller, you can choose high-quality materials that fit within your budget.

You’ll Enjoy The Experience 

Designing an engagement ring can be a lot of fun — especially if you experience it with your partner. You’ll get to bond over making choosing the ring together, try on different prototypes, and ultimately walk away with a one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery you love. 

Things To Consider Before Designing A Bespoke Engagement Ring 

Now that you know more about bespoke engagement rings and some of the advantages of choosing one, it’s time to start thinking about whether or not this type of ring is right for you and your partner. Here are some things to keep in mind as you make your decision: 

Your partner’s style — Is your partner someone who prefers unique and one-of-a-kind pieces? Or do they like classic and timeless jewellery? Understanding your partner’s style should give you a good indication of whether or not they would appreciate a bespoke ring. 

Your budget — As we mentioned earlier, bespoke engagement rings can be pretty expensive, depending on your choice of jeweller. Make sure you know how much you’re willing to spend before starting the design process so that you don’t get in over your head financially. 

Your timeframe — Bespoke rings can take several weeks or even months to create. If you’re hoping for a last-minute proposal, you might consider going with a traditional engagement ring instead. 

The Bottom Line

Not only is a bespoke engagement ring unique and special, but it can also be eco-friendly .If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend finding an experienced jeweller in your area who can help guide you through the process from start to finish.

Amazing Alternatives To The New Seven Wonders Of The World 

Editorial Team
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Amazing Alternatives To The New Seven Wonders Of The World 

Though they’ve certainly been standing for a long time, not many people know that the term ‘The new seven wonders of the world‘ was actually coined in 2001, in place of the original list made more than 2000 years ago to capture the world’s most magnificent ancient sites.

While these seven ‘modern’ wonders are global must-sees in their own right, they can often get overcrowded and can be quite costly to view. That’s why today we’ve collated a list of alternative suggestions to the new wonders of the world that are just as breathtaking and bucket-list worthy.

Instead Of The Colosseum, Visit Verona Arena

Transcending the drama of ancient Rome, imbued with gladiatorial games, classical plays, and animal hunts, the Colosseum in Rome, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an iconic monument of Roman history. 

Whilst it offers an immersion into the largest amphitheatre in the world, there are many other well-preserved Roman amphitheatres that carry the same legacy. Such is the case with Verona Arena.

Built in the 1st century AD from Veronese marble and known as the third largest amphitheatre at that time, the Verona Arena has become a symbol of the city. Being able to hold up to 30,000 people, ancient entertainment, such as gladiator games, long took place here.

Today, the amphitheatre serves as a tourist attraction and a concert hall. During the day, tourists can climb to the top level and view the full stadium. At night, it’s lit and can be seen in all its spectacular glory. But that’s not all; Verona Arena is home to splendid operas and open-air performances, preserving the architecture and the spirit of the amphitheatre. 

This is the perfect spot to capture your city-dwelling ambitions and thirst for culture. Embrace the romanticism of Verona Arena in a trendy outfit featuring a long coat and black ankle boots – the ideal setting for your Instagram feed.

Photo by Danique Dohmen on Unsplash

Instead Of The Great Wall Of China, Visit The Great Wall Of India

The purpose of the Great Wall of China was to protect the Northern part of the country from invaders. The project was finished in 220 BCE under the rule of China’s first Emperor, Qin Shi Huang, spanning 13,171 miles.

While it’s definitely worth seeing, you can escape the crowds and walk in peace along another wall that’s as stunning and historically significant – the Great Wall of India.

Known as Kumbhalgarh Wall or Kumbhalgarh Fort, it is located in Rajasthan amongst mesmerising forests and mountains. Built in the 15th century, it is 20 miles long and is the second largest wall in the world. Home to about 300 ancient temples, Kumbhalgarh Wall is a truly magical place, offering immersion not only in nature but also India’s history.

Photo by Dewan Salimuddin Ahmed on Unsplash

Instead Of The Taj Mahal, Visit Humayun’s Tomb

The Taj Mahal has a heart-melting story. Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, built the temple as a tomb for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631 during childbirth. 

But the Taj Mahal isn’t the only emblem of Mughal architecture that offers an awe-inspiring story. Eighty years before it was built, Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi became the first-ever mausoleum synonymous with this type of architecture and is now a UNESCO heritage site.

In the cells of Humayun’s Tomb are buried over 150 Mughal family members; it’s no surprise, then, that the garden-tomb is also called the ‘dormitory of the Mughals’. Emanating the legacy of the Mughal family, the mausoleum is hugely influential in Indian architecture and history, and a monument that’s not to be missed.

Photo by Aman Kumar on Unsplash

Instead Of Machu Picchu, Visit Kuelap

A true rival to Machu Picchu is Kuelap in Peru. Often referred to as Peru’s ‘Machu Picchu of the north’, Kuelap is located on a 3,000-metre hilltop and was formerly inhabited by the ‘cloud warriors’ of the Chachapoya culture.

What’s astonishing about Kuelap is the circular ruins on three levels containing over 550 structures. Just like Machu Picchu in Cusco is a symbol of the Incan culture, featuring intact remains of temples, homes, and plazas, Kuelap is a doorway to Chachapoya culture.

The picturesque hike to Kuelap can certainly rival the famous Incan trail to Machu Picchu. Moreover, accommodation in the area is cheaper, making it an ideal alternative to the wonder of the world.

By zysman from Getty images via Canva

Instead Of Chichén Itzá, Visit Uxmal

The Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is bestowed with ancient Mayan sites, the most famous of which is the Chichén Itzá. Impressive in size and home to a series of temples and monuments, it is most famous for the El Castillo temple, whose walls reflect the sun to form intricate serpent shapes.

But Uxmal is just as impressive, astonishing not so much in size but the intricacy of the stonework. The pyramids are nestled between the trees, creating a truly magical atmosphere. The Adivino, also known as the Temple of the Magician, is the most striking pyramid in Uxmal and the only Mayan pyramid with an elliptical shape rather than a rectilinear one.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, Uxmal is a magnificent Mayan site in the Yucatan Peninsula that offers awe-inspiring sights and fewer crowds than its more famous cousin Chichen Itza.

Read: Enjoy every moment of your trip to Tulum, Mexico

Photo by José Pablo Domínguez on Unsplash
Photo by Jorge Ramírez on Unsplash

Instead Of Petra, Visit Al-‘Ula 

Petra, the ancient city in southern Jordan that dates back to 312BC, attracts thousands of tourists with golden-hued architecture, cliff views, and the opportunity to sleep under the stars.

But Petra isn’t the only way to see how ancient civilisations lived. Al-‘Ula in Saudi Arabia was built in the 13th century and was the capital of the ancient Arab kingdom of Lihyan. This beautiful oasis prospered due to its location around fertile soil and a plentiful supply of water. 

It is believed that the prophet Muhammed passed through the oasis in 630 AD on his campaign to Tabuk. After that, the town declined, only to be rebuilt again around 1230 AD atop the former ancient city. For many years it prospered again until it was abandoned in the middle of the 20th century.

Today, Al-‘Ula is a less-known alternative to Petra, but offers a similarly fascinating window into ancient civilisations.

By Matthew Starling from Getty Images via Canva

Instead Of Christ The Redeemer, Visit Christ The Protector

For nearly a century, Christ the Redeemer has been known as the tallest statue of Jesus Christ in the world, standing more than 30 metres tall over Rio de Janeiro, on the top of Mount Corcovado in Brazil. Built in 1931, it has become an iconic symbol of Christianity and hope after the First World War.

However, in 2010, a new statue of Jesus Christ was built in Świebodzin, Poland – Christ the King. Standing 39.6 metres tall, it dwarfed Christ the Redeemer.

Today, a new world record has been set by Christ the Protector located in Encantado in Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul. Completed on 22nd April 2022, Christ the Protector is now the tallest statue of Jesus Christ at 43.6 metres, echoing the Art Deco style of Christ the Redeemer but executed in more detail.

The aim of the project is to enhance tourism in the area, and you can be one of the first visitors to witness the iconic monument should you be heading to Brazil soon! What better excuse for a last minute holiday, hey?

Is Beauty Sleep A Real Thing? 8 Beauty Benefits Of Getting Enough Quality Sleep

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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Is Beauty Sleep A Real Thing? 8 Beauty Benefits Of Getting Enough Quality Sleep

In the wise words of Nietzsche, ‘sleeping is no mean art: for its sake, one must stay awake all day’. Indeed. But actually, the guy had a point. For all the huge amount of good work sleep does in repairing the ills accrued throughout the day, it’s not often given the respect it deserves.

We’re all a little guilty of jeopardising the quality of our sleep or simply not getting enough of it, whether that’s because our bedtime routine isn’t mindful enough or the stresses of the day are keeping us ceiling staring. In short, we’re an overstimulated, under-rested bunch. 

This lack of quality sleep can wreak havoc on our youthful good looks, making skin look tired, complexion pale, and our faces prone to wrinkles and bags, equally. When the fix is so simple, to sleep more, it’s surprising we’re not all doing our best to catch those all-important 8 hours each and every night. If you’re still asking if beauty sleep is a real thing, then read on; here are 8 reasons sleep is so good for your skin.

Human Growth Hormone Releases To Heal And Repair

During the first few hours of sleep, your pituitary gland releases Human Growth Hormone (HGH) which helps your skin repair itself from the stresses and damage of the day. This nightly skin tune-up acts as a reset for your skin, guaranteeing a more glowing complexion in the morning.

Melatonin As An Antioxidant

Melatonin isn’t just the hormone that makes you sleepy, it also has some pretty potent antioxidant abilities. As such, melatonin can help your skin deal with some of those skin-damaging free radicals created throughout the day.

It’s important to note here that melatonin production is adversely affected by blue light – you know that stuff coming out of your smartphone screen – so it’s a wise move to two yours to nighttime mode, or, better still, off entirely, a few hours before bedtime.

Of course, as the guys at anatomyofsleep.com tell us, your beauty sleep relies as much on the quality of your mattress as your pre-bed routine. Check out their guides on some of the best mattresses around for more on that.

Cortisol Levels Decrease To Reduce Inflammation

Cortisol is your stress hormone, and while you need some of it to give you that pep which helps you tackle the rigours of the day, ideally you want it to reduce to a low level at night, while you sleep. 

When your cortisol drops at night and while you sleep, it helps reduce the overall inflammation in your body and provides deep tension relief in the muscles of your face. And, since inflammation can show up on your face in the form of red, irritated, or blotchy skin, letting your cortisol settle down at night is a good thing.

Read: 7 IDEAL ways to maintain youthful skin

Your Body Balances Moisture Levels While You Sleep

At night, your body can help regulate and redistribute the water content of the body and skin, including making sure your face is optimally hydrated. If you’ve ever had a bout of sleeplessness, you may have noticed that your skin became dull, lacklustre, or dry. Get enough of those Zzzeds to prevent this.

Blood Flow Improves During Sleep And When You Are Well-Rested

Your body needs an optimal supply of blood to deliver all necessary oxygen and nutrients to the area, including your face. When you sleep, the blood vessels in your face dilate, allowing more blood flow than during the day. And, it’s this increased blood flow that helps you look fresh and rosy in the morning.

Reduces The Appearance Of Dark Circles Under Eyes

When you skimp on sleep, the blood vessels under the thin skin of the eye can expand and cause fluid to linger, causing your eyes to have that well known, much-feared darkened or puffy appearance. 

Get enough sleep to ward off eye bags, keep well hydrated, and if possible, sleep with your head slightly elevated to reduce extra fluid pooling under the eyes.

Your Skin Makes More Collagen And Protects Existing Fibres

Collagen is the vital skin component that gives skin its elasticity and bounce, meaning that the more collagen you have in your skin, the fewer wrinkles you’ll see forming. While you are sleeping, your skin ramps up the production of those youthful collagen fibres. What’s more, reducing the stress on your skin by sleeping well can help prevent the breakdown of your existing collagen.

Skin Cells Grow Faster When You Are Sleeping

Rapid skin cell turnover is a great way to keep your complexion looking fresh and dewy, and happens to be one of the main targets in skincare products ranging from retinoids to exfoliants, and even chemical peels. 

You can help your body launch into quicker skin cell growth and turnover by simply getting high-quality shut-eye on the regular and also by using gentle moisturisers and serums with glow-promoting ingredients like vitamins, hyaluronic acid, or retinoids (if wrinkles or acne are a problem), which are great nightly add on to up your beauty sleep game.

Oh, you thought this thing was over? 

Here’s an little added extra for you; our 10 top tips for taking your beauty sleep to the next level:

  1. Sleep on silk or satin pillowcases and sheets
  2. Elevate your head and try to sleep on your back
  3. Reduce caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol before bed
  4. Make sure the room is completely dark at night
  5. Drink plenty of water before bed
  6. Reduce use of electronics before bed or use a blue light filter
  7. Take a warm bath or shower at night
  8. Aim for getting 7-9 hours nightly
  9. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day
  10. Wash your face before bed and apply high-quality skincare products

And with that, we’re off for a nap, care to join? Actually, that sounds a little weird…

Don’t Get Me Out Of Here! 4 Junglesque Stays To Trial This Season

Editorial Team
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Don’t Get Me Out Of Here! 4 Junglesque Stays To Trial This Season

As celebrities and former politicians grace our TV screens this November to complete challenges whilst living in the rural outback all the way down under, it can leave us itching (perhaps quite literally!) to want to discover new destinations and travel the world in search of solitude and, in some cases, extreme dining.

Booking.com research has even found that 40% of UK travellers want to experience complete culture shock in 2023, and who can blame them? Be it travelling somewhere with completely different cultural experiences and languages or exploring lesser-known cities with hidden gems that aren’t already on the radar, some UK travellers even want to use it as an opportunity to learn survival skills including how to source clean water, light a fire from scratch, and forage for food in the wild.

With that in mind, Booking.com has selected the most incredible jungle stays across different destinations to consider booking for your next trip, inspired by the UK’s most-watched survival reality television show.

Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat – Crystal Creek, Australia

Located near Springbrook National Park, feel like the King or Queen of the jungle staying at the Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat right near some of your favourite celebrities.

Surrounded by the Numinbah Nature Reserve, the Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat offers effortless natural garden views showcasing acres of lush rainforest surroundings.

The Creekside Spa Cabin allows you to sit by the indoor fireplace enjoying tranquillity within the living room of this jungle retreat property. Guests can take advantage of one of four hiking trails on the property, where you’ll be surrounded by rare and endangered wildlife along with individual trees that date back to when Australia wasn’t yet discovered by the Europeans. This jungle retreat is certainly one to check off your bucket list.

Website: ccrr.com.au

El Jardin Lodge & Spa – Puerto Misahuallí, Ecuador

Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest faces east of the Andean Highlands, where a rich selection of species resides. Similar to the Australian jungle, the deep verdant rainforest is home to mammals, reptiles, and birds, as well as a thousand species of trees.

This stunning location offers unparalleled opportunities to experience the rainforest in its pristine state with local activities like river cruises, jungle trekking and local cycling that can be enjoyed by travellers.

The El Jardin Lodge & Spa is a great alternative to escape and experience the Amazon jungle; its environment blends nature, comfort and privacy effortlessly.

Guests here can sleep in El Jardin’s sustainable lodges under the trees and surrounded by the sounds of nature and the magic of the rivers, allowing guests to feel like they’re down under without the stress of a bush tucker trial!

Website: eljardinlodge.com

Mango Bay Resort – PhuQuoc, Vietnam

If you’re looking to escape from reality in 2023, the Mango Bay Resort is one to experience. The resort nestles in four acres of one of the most beautiful pristine beaches in the world.

A jungle paradise, the beachfront resort contains six private villas all designed to reflect the beauty of their tropical surroundings where guests can access a nearby private sandy beach and views of natural greenery.

Guests wouldn’t need to win a trial to enjoy the delicious South East Asian cuisine at the resort’s restaurant, which can be eaten whilst watching beautiful sunset views. All rooms and bungalows within the property offer sensational views of either the sea or the garden from terraces; you can read our full review of Mango Bay’s restaurant On The Rocks for more on that!

You can now fly directly from London to Phu Quoc Island. And trust us; you want to be booking those flights before the whole world discovers this tropical paradise.

Website: mangobayphuquoc.com

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu – Kota Kinabalu, Sri Lanka

Kota Kinabalu, known locally as ‘KK’, is and one of Booking.com’s top 10 trending destinations for 2023. A hidden gem in the bustling capital of Sabah in the Malaysian part of the island of Borneo, it is surrounded by lush rainforests and sandy beaches to give off that jungle feel. With 40% of UK travellers wishing to experience culture shock while travelling in 2023, this off-the-beaten-track destination will allow them to immerse themselves its unique tropical location.

For a modern hotel in the heart of the action, Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu is situated opposite the city’s waterfront market where souvenir-hunting travellers can interact with local fruit and fish traders.

Guests can head to the ocean for snorkelling and scuba diving to face their fears or recline on one of the poolside cabanas with a cocktail after a day of challenges. This property that features local Bornean fabrics throughout, has a Booking.com Travel Sustainable badge for its efforts in sustainability, including serving organic produce at its four eateries and providing guests with free bicycle hire to explore the city.

Website: www.marriott.co.uk

Or, if you’ve got your sights set on a last minute trip before the year’s out, then check our 8 top trending holiday destinations for 2022. Bon Voyage!

A Guide To The Best Hybrid Bikes On The Market

Editorial Team
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A Guide To The Best Hybrid Bikes On The Market

Let’s face the facts here; not all bikes were created equal. And neither would we want them to be. Because in the modern world, bicycles serve a wide variety of different purposes and riders, from those keen for an efficient, traffic-negotiating commute all the way to those hardcore riders who relish a bit of à bloc.

Though the world of bicycles is one full of complex terminology, they are broadly divided into four categories; road, mountain, cruiser, and hybrid.

Road bikes are designed to be ridden on the pavement or, you guessed it, the road. They feature smoother tires and are not well suited for off-road riding, but they are perfect for zipping about in urban environments. The design helps the rider to reach faster speeds to fly through city streets and get away (relatively) quickly from a red light. Ideal, then, for the commute and the Sunday morning trip to the local Sainsbury’s for a paper.

Mountain bikes, familiar to most, are built to be ridden on more diverse, unpredictable terrain. A mountain bike is great for off-road biking and trails, gravel or dirt paths, and even work well for especially rocky paths. If you like to follow your own path (off the beaten one, that is) and have a daredevil streak which burns brightly, then this one’s for you. 

Cruisers are the type of bike that you might just recognise from the movies. You know, the ones that bare-chested young things ride on a boardwalk or near the beach in sepia-tinged shades. These types of bikes are not built for rugged ground and are harder to manoeuvre in tight spots. A cruiser is a great option for leisure riding, however.

Finally, a hybrid bike is basically a combination of a mountain and road. These bikes take the best of both and provide a great all-around bike, especially suited to commuters that may have to cover some more difficult ground along the way.

Sometimes, hybrid bikes are referred to as fitness bikes. Regardless of how you term them, these bikes are made to be as comfortable as possible for the rider while maintaining speed and ease of control. 

Additionally, hybrid bikes are perhaps the best kind for commuting as they frequently include mounting points for your racks and mudguards, allowing you to carry luggage and partially protect yourself from splash back from wet roads. 

Today, we’re considering the best hybrid bikes on the market, combining the positives of road and mountain bikes to great effect. Let’s explore further…

Best For Beginners: Cannondale Quick CX 2

We start, naturally, with a great bike for beginners. The Cannondale Quick CX 2 hybrid is the one to buy if you’re starting out as a cyclist and aren’t sure exactly what kind of cycling you intend to do. This versatile option feels fantastic on paved surfaces with slight roughness, loose gravel roads, and congested city streets. 

Ideal for those commuting in the suburbs, particularly, the Cannondale Quick is paired with a 63mm SR Suntour suspension fork, ensuring greater comfort on uneven and bumpy streets. Of course, this won’t protect you from taking the odd tumble. and for the utmost safety, it is essential to pair this purchase with a bike helmet, too! 

Best Lightweight: Jamis Coda S2

For those who prefer the comfort of a steel frame (hey, who doesn’t?), this hybrid bike is ideal. Even though the Jamis Coda S2 boasts that requisite steel, it does not feel heavy, and you can easily carry it up the stairs or load it onto a bus or train after completing some of your journey on two wheels, for a type of ‘hybrid commuting’, if you will.

The tyres here are the highly-regarded Vittoria Randonneur, and the stems are particularly easy to adjust. All this said, there is one drawback to the Jamis Coda; this bike isn’t quite as manoeuvrable as the others on our list, making it a little cumbersome on the incline.

Read: 6 of the Europe’s most cycle friendly destinations

Best For City Life: Bobbin Hummingbird Vintage Bike

The hummingbird vintage from Bobbin Bikes is lightweight, making it perfectly suited for running errands with a breezy sense of style. We don’t use the word ‘style’ lightly; this bike stands out because of its flawless gloss paint finish, colour-coordinated mudguards, and elegantly designed chain case. 

Additionally, thanks to its seven Shimano gears, the Hummingbird negotiates hills in a confident way that belies its nimble appearance. 

Boasting moustache-style handlebars that give the bike a straight and perfect arm position, it’s also a comfortable bike to enjoy some flatland cruising on, with its slimmer 700x32c tyres ensuring an agile feel while riding it. For those who love a lightness of touch, both in design and functionality, the Hummingbird could be for you.

Best Electric-Hybrid: RadRover6 Plus

The RadRover6 Plus is a good choice for those who can’t (or don’t want to) pedal for long stretches, whether that’s due to fitness concerns, an injury, or simply a desire to cruise once in a while.

This electric hybrid model boasts 750W peak power Bafang motor technology, which renders the ride quiet yet powerful. 

Of course, you can still pedal independently because the RadRover uses a pedal-assisted motor which only intervenes whenever you need to offer some additional power. With a 672Wh capacity, the battery provides adequate power for some longer rides.

Of course, if that cruising appeals to you, then perhaps an electric bike might be for you? If so, do check out these things to consider before buying an e-bike.

The Bottom Line

With something for everyone, from the keen commuter and the cruiser all the way to the adrenaline-chaser and ascent-lover, hybrid bikes are very much the future. Care to join us on two wheels?

6 Christmas Work Party Ideas In London

Editorial Team
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6 Christmas Work Party Ideas In London

‘Work Christmas party’… Do those words strike a certain amount of fear in your heart? Perhaps you’re the person who is left to organise it every year, or perhaps you’re the naysayer who doesn’t attend if you can absolutely help it? 

If you’re the one charged with planning the event, then you’re probably looking for inspiration for your Christmas work party, well aware that pretty much no-one likes organised fun. It’s a tough gig, indeed.

While you could always host the party at the office, doing so may well dampen the festive spirit before it’s even got started; it’s a sadistic person, after all, who wants to spend their free time at their place of work. And there really is no greater buzzkill than sitting at your very own desk, sipping a can and contemplating meeting some deadlines until the party’s over.

So, providing an alternative location should be an absolute must, especially if you live in London where nearly every restaurant, bar, club and park offer Christmas themed events.

Getting out there and away from the office has the power to encourage colleagues to let their hair down and foster a sense of camaraderie with their co-workers. And that’s what this is all about, right?

If you’re based in the capital, we’ve come up with some ideas for festive work parties that beat warm prosecco out of a plastic cup in the corridor. Here are 6 Christmas work party ideas in London. 

A Bottomless Brunch 

What could be more festive than drinking a glass or two of prosecco this Christmas? This is a celebratory drink, make no mistake, and Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without consuming a bottle or two (responsibly of course). 

Enter the Christmas Bottomless Brunch. Here are a few of our favourites in the capital:

  • Supa Dupa Fly: Why not try Supa Dupa Fly’s infamous R’N’Brunch Party, which takes place on the first Saturday of every month in Shoreditch? Their event on 3rd of December could be ideal for your Christmas work party. For £39.90 per person, you get access to the party, a quiz on RnB music, two courses of food, and one hour of unlimited prosecco or rum punch. The Supa Dupa Fly team even offers discounts for groups of 10 or more.
  • Barrio Bars: It’s crackers and maracas this Christmas at Barrio. They are throwing Christmas-themed bottomless lunches at their various venues throughout London. Think festive palms, glittery piñatas, and Christmas caipirinhas…the works. They also offer private rooms and exclusive hire options for full-on fiestas at all their venues.
  • The Escapologist: This popular bar in Covent Garden is throwing a, ‘Mariah Vs Buble’ bottomless brunch with Christmas bangers galore. Altogether now…‘’I don’t want a lot for Christmas’’.
  • Lucky Voice: Everybody loves karaoke (well, most-body) and Christmas time brings with it a whole new set of holiday songs which everyone always knows the words to. Lucky Voice is hosting a Christmas Karaoke Brunch at their Islington venue. Adding bottomless booze to the mix will help your work colleagues create a loose-tongued, playful atmosphere where people are more willing to sing. Altogether now…. Wait, we’ve done this one already.
  • The Cocktail Club: On the first day of Christmas, my baby gave to me… bottomless cocktails and all-round debauchery! The Cocktail Club are throwing a noughties Christmas themed bottomless brunch in their Old Street and Shoreditch venues, and we can’t wait. 

Festive Feasting Menus 

While you won’t be hard pressed to find a London restaurant offering a traditional festive menu with all the trimmings, why not mix things up and have some brighter flavours for your Christmas party in London? Here are our top pick of alternative festive menus in London: 

  • Pachamama: Pachamama’s festive menu is a rolling style service of their very best dishes picked by the chef. At Pachamama, it’s all about modern Peruvian inspired dining. Expect a procession of light, vibrant plates full of colour and zip, and they even have festive brussel sprouts, Peruvian style. The restaurant has private dining rooms in each of their venues in London, which can comfortably cater up to fourteen (hugging) guests. 
  • Brigadiers: For something a little different, why not try this excellent Indian barbecue joint? With four private dining rooms, free flow beers, giant sports screens and a party atmosphere., Brigadiers is a seriously opulent, high-class affair.
  • Korean Dinner Party: This popular Korean restaurant in Kingly Court is offering two festive menus. The first menu, named  ‘K-Town Kristmas’, involves a massive pork shoulder that’s been slow roasted for 12 hours, served with kimchi, apples and lettuce cups. Alternatively their ‘KFC – Korean Fried Christmas’ involves lots of Korean fried chicken, which should never be turned down!

Ping Pong Merrily On High

This is the year to pull out all the stops for Christmas and play a little ‘ping pong merrily on high’ with all of your work colleagues! Enter Bounce – the home of ping pong in London. 

Bounce, with venues in Old Street and Farringdon, has become something of a London institution, with Londoners heading there every night of the week for a few rounds of ping pong and a cocktail or two.

Come December, both venues get decked out for Christmas and offer festive party packages. Four tiers of Christmas ping pong packages are available, all of which include great value food and drink (think Christmas canapes like smoked salmon blinis and turkey sliders). Prices start from just £25 per person. 

Read: 12 IDEAL Michelin-starred tips for Christmas

A Christmas Pub Crawl

Is Christmas really Christmas without going to at least one pub? Well, why not go to 12 instead?

The 12 pubs of Christmas is a tradition in Ireland and the concept, as the Irish Post explains, involves numerous, often bizarre, rules. Largely, though, the idea is to ‘’visit twelve different pubs in one night, spend 30 minutes and have a drink in each, wear the ugliest Christmas jumper you own, and strictly abide by the laws of each pub”.

The rules are loosely (and by the end, we mean loosely) as follows:

Pub # 1: No names

Pub # 2: No pointing

Pub # 3: Drink your drink with the wrong hand

Pub # 4: Get a shot and move on 

Pub # 5: No swearing (pretty tough by the mid-way stage!)

Pub # 6:  Speak in an accent

Pub # 7: Waddle like a penguin from the 6th pub to the 7th

Pub # 8: Raise your pint up high and keep it there the whole time 

Pub # 9: Selfie with a stranger

Pub # 10: Play ‘Never Have I Ever’

Pub #11: Dance

Pub #12: There are no rules. Just relax and enjoy your pint

Phew.

Back in London, we think the Bermondsey Beer Mile is ideal for a Christmas pub crawl, as it boasts more than a dozen pubs in close proximity. You can choose 12 out of the 17 pubs in the area, but here’s our suggestion. 

Start at Maltby Street Market and have a pre-bar crawl beer in the market (is that strictly necessary?). Then, head on to some or all of these:

  1. Southwark Brewing Co.
  2. 80 Druid Street
  3. Hawkes Cider, 86-92 Druid Street
  4. Billy Franks Craft Beer & Snack Shack, 104 Druid Street 
  5. Hiver, 56 Stanworth Street 
  6. Anspach & Hobday, 118 Druid Street 
  7. Moor Beer, 71 Enid Street
  8. Cloudwater, 73 Enid Street 
  9. Brew By Numbers, 75-79 Enid Street 
  10. Bianca Road, 83-84 Enid Street
  11. Craft Beer Junction, 86 Enid Street 
  12. The Kernel, Arch 7, Dockley Road Industrial Estate 
  13. The Outpost – Three Hills Brewing, 7 Almond Road 
  14. Spartan, 8 Almond Road 
  15. EeBria, 15 Almond Road 
  16. Partizan, 34 Raymouth Road
  17. 650m to Fourpure, 22 Bermondsey Trading Estate

Better read our article on 5 ideal party season hangover cures for this one. 

Head to Winter Wonderland 

If you’re looking for a day out that will please all of your work family, then look no further than Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park; it really has it all. 

From ice sculptures and skating to fairground rides and stalls with mulled wine, all illuminated under sparkling Christmas lights, there’s something for everyone here. This year, Winter Wonderland is running from 19th November to 3rd January 2022, with entry available in four hour slots for just £5. Pre-booking is highly recommended, as tickets sell out fast.

A Themed Office Party 

We get it; while having your festivities somewhere other than your office sounds like a brilliant idea, your Christmas party budget may have shrunk this year because of, well, you know. 

So, if you do have to throw your Christmas party in the office this year, then a themed office party is a must. 

‘’But isn’t Christmas a theme enough?’’, we hear you ask. Well, not really; whacking on a Christmas jumper and playing Last Christmas isn’t exactly going to get the party rocking, now is it?

Indeed, this year we can do better than a prolonged party parade of ‘wear your Christmas jumper’, and er, that’s it. Instead, keep guests on their toes by throwing a curveball, and a great soiree to match.  

Dig a little deeper and get creative. There are plenty of different aspects of the festive season that you could focus on, from classic inspiration such as a Charles Dickens Christmas to more contemporary concepts like the Nightmare Before Christmas or Winter Wonderland themes. 

Check out our tips on 4 IDEAL themed Christmas party ideas over here for more inspiration!

So you can make your party one that your colleagues will remember, consider hiring a Christmas party photo booth for your office through companies like Event Rhino. Their one-of-a-kind digital photo booth, for instance, adds the option of selfies, gifs, boomerangs, and videos to your party.

Event Rhino can work with you to design and customise the interface of the booth, meaning you can even add company branding to your festive snaps. The digital content created can then be shared directly with guests via text message or uploaded to their social media. If you’ve added company branding, therein lies instant marketing, too…

And with two birds killed with a single sprout, our work here is done!

How & Why To Build A Playground In Your Back Garden

Editorial Team
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How & Why To Build A Playground In Your Back Garden

On the colder, shorter days that naturally arrive during autumn and winter, keeping little ones active can be a tough task. Activity levels tend to drop during the colder months, as children gravitate towards the warmth and comfort of inside, most often on the sofa. 

But it’s essential to keep the little ones active and outdoors, even when temperatures drop and light dims. Scientific studies consistently conclude that we should all be getting outside more during the colder months, as it’s a time when Vitamin D is more valuable than ever. 

What’s more, there are proven links between outdoor activity and brain development in kids. But if you’re a parent, you’ll know that winter can represent a bit of a struggle to get the little ones up, out of the house and active. Why not make the garden impossible to resist by constructing a playground out there?

The benefits are endless. The encouraging of unstructured play helps children foster inquisitiveness, curiosity and boundary setting, and they’ll get a good dose of exercise to boot. But that’s not all; having a playground in your garden will help nurture sociability between your children and others…what’s not to love?

With that in mind, here’s how to make a playground in your back garden.

The Right Equipment

When it comes to what sets apart a good playground from a great one, it’s undoubtedly the playground equipment. 

A great playground should of course include a swing, slide and have climbing options. Mud kitchens which encourage creative and sensory play are a great addition to any home playground.  Not only should you remember that children’s tastes change as they grow, but you’ve also got to make sure that the equipment is big enough for your kids as they grow. 

Create Different Zones 

As you’re creating your playground, consider how you can accommodate different types of play. One of the easiest ways to do this is through zoning your playground. 

Unlike most areas in your home, your garden offers plenty of freedom to be creative and adventurous, allowing you to experiment. 

One of the easiest ways of zoning areas in your playground area is to create new and contrasting levels, utilising the vertical instead of the horizontal. This is especially true if you have a smaller garden that you want to maximise space in, as building upwards rather than out won’t impact on those valuable square metres at ground level. A climbing frame, ideally with several tiers, is ideal here, particularly for those with limited garden space.

If layers and levels aren’t really your thing, you can take zoning more literally with a range of different materials to create separate, distinct areas in one all-encompassing space…  

Concrete zone 

Concrete is an essential zone in a playground garden, as it allows for plenty of creative games to be played, simply by marking them out in chalk. Think hopscotch, bullseye, alphabet hop and 4 square, for instance. 

Go a step further and use thermoplastic playground markings, which can provide an engaging and creative outlet for children during outdoor play, since you can get more intricate with your game design than you would with a stick of chalk.

Woodchip zone 

Wood chips are a popular choice for playgrounds as they have good shock absorbency, helping prevent injuries when falls inevitably occur. When it comes to choosing the right wood chips, engineered wood fibre (EWF) is the best – it’s easy to install and has a natural look. 

Sandpit zone 

For little ones, sandpits represent a whole world of possibilities! And the best thing? These zones are super easy to introduce to your garden, as pits can be portable.

Greenzone 

Be sure to keep a green space in your playground garden, replete with plants and where wildlife can thrive. Doing so will help your kids learn about wildlife and the environment. 

Growing a plant from scratch is a great way to teach your child to be nature loving. Watering and taking care of the plant until it is fully grown will prove very satisfying for both of you, and could even teach kids how to grow their own food in the future. What’s more, it fosters an understanding of the seasons and the passing of time, which is valuable for teaching many life lessons later down the line. 

Whatever the size of your garden, it has the potential to help the environment. Consider planting some flowers for bees or making a hedgehog hotel; both great ways to foster an environmentally conscious attitude in your children.  

Playground Games Galore

Whether your kids are at early years foundation stage level or are looking forward to secondary school, thermoplastic playground markings are an excellent addition to any playground garden. 

They come in a variety of captivating designs, all of which will encourage movement and activity to help young ones achieve their recommended 60 minutes of physical activity a day. From hopscotch to mazes, targets to trails; there are a plethora of designs to choose from and depending on the age of the children who’ll be utilising them, you can pick the perfect option to suit.

Themes

A theme can help the playground be educational and informative rather than just the arena for a tear up. For inspiration, look at some of the most popular playgrounds around the world. 

The Diana Memorial playground, for instance, was inspired by Peter Pan and his ‘forever young’ spirit. The park includes teepees, trees, forts and a pirate ship in the middle of the playground, all of which could inspire your playground garden’s theme. 

Or, Toyko’s Nishi Rokugo park, which repurposes rubber tyres as playthings, is a wonderful way to educate the little ones about recycling. Think swings and slides made out of tyres – fantastic! Nishi Rokugo even has a giant Godzilla made out of tyres to keep watch over the park. A step too far for the domestic setting? We don’t think so.

Read: 6 amazing decorating ideas for young kids’ bedrooms

How To Clean Halloween Stains, Including Fake Blood, After Your Halloween Party

Editorial Team
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How To Clean Halloween Stains, Including Fake Blood, After Your Halloween Party


From Halloween chocolate to face paint, Halloween can lead to the scariest carpet stains that can be a nightmare to get out after the festivities have come to an end. Fortunately, carpet cleaning expert Stan Tomov from Fantastic Cleaners is on hand to offer the best tips and tricks to get the most difficult Halloween stains out of your carpets.

Fake Blood

Fake blood is an essential part of almost any Halloween costume and whilst some may think it might be a pain to clean up, it’s not as bad as you may think.

Fake blood is typically made with a combination of corn syrup and red dye, with the dye part creating the stain. The same rubbing alcohol that you might use to clean up make up stains will therefore work very well for fake blood too, since they’re both pigment-based products.

As an added bonus, the rubbing alcohol will reduce the sticky texture of the fake blood, making it far easier to clean from your carpet than expected.

Face Paint

Face paint is an essential part of Halloween; however, it can be a nightmare if dropped or spilled on your carpet. If this does happen, the most important thing to remember is to act fast if you’re to keep things properly clean! Leaving a paint or ink stain to dry will make it nearly impossible to get out completely. To get Halloween face paint out of your carpet, try these steps:

  1. Moisten the stained area with some rubbing alcohol. Blot the ink stain using a clean cloth. Do not rub the area to prevent spreading the stain!
  2. Re-wet the cloth with more alcohol and dab it over the affected area several times. Be patient! The alcohol should sit on the spot for about 30 minutes.
  3. Rinse the area with a solution made of a quarter cup of white vinegar and a quart of warm water.
  4. Once the stain is gone, rinse with clean water and let the carpet dry.
  5. Vacuum the area thoroughly.

Glitter

At almost any festive event, glitter is bound to feature, and the Halloween party is no exception. Whilst it may look nice and add a lot of fun, it can be difficult to get glitter out of a carpet. However, this simple solution that many overlook…

Simply grab a paper towel or some kitchen roll, wet it and dab it onto the carpet or rug wherever glitter has fallen. Most of the glitter will cling onto the towel and be removed easily, with a quick vacuum of the carpet clearing up any remaining bits.

Slime

For Halloween slime that may have seeped into your carpet, vinegar is your best friend. As an acid, it has the power to dissolve the slime from any fabric and prevent permanent staining.

Start by preparing a 2:1 cleaning solution of vinegar and lukewarm water in the spray bottle. You may find suggestions on pouring vinegar directly onto the stain. However, this may not be good for the carpet, especially for more delicate types. It is safer to test with a mixed solution first.

Once you pre-treat the stain and eliminate all the excess slime, generously spray the stain and let the solution work for at least 5 minutes. You should be able to notice the slime getting dissolved, and that’s when you can try scrubbing gently with the brush without pressing too hard. Then blot with the towel for absorbing the liquid.

You may have to repeat the whole procedure more than once. Feel free to repeat the process until it fully disappears. If the vinegar smell bothers you, just wash the area with water and a small amount of dishwashing liquid after you have removed the stain. Leave the newly cleaned carpet to dry or speed up the process with a hairdryer.

7 Of The Best Things To Do In & Around Chile’s Capital City Santiago

Joseph Gann
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7 Of The Best Things To Do In & Around Chile’s Capital City Santiago

You might be forgiven for thinking that the South American country of Chile, famed for being being just 110 miles wide, might lack something in terms of geographical diversity. 

How wrong you’d be; Chile is a place of scenic extremity. Stretching for over 2’500 miles north to south, it’s the longest country in the world, flanked by the Andes Mountains to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, and boasting some of the world’s longest stretches of coastline and some of the largest still-active volcanoes on the planet, accordingly. 

But that’s not all; on your holiday to Chile you’ll find epic glaciers and mountains, sprawling alpine forests, isolated coastal fjords, sun-kissed beach resorts by the bucketload, and even penguins in the far south.

With such a wealth of topographical wonder, it would be understandable if your stop-off in Chile’s capital Santiago was treated merely as a transit; a brief recharge before setting off into the country’s vast and breathtaking landscapes. But to do so would be to miss out on all that this sophisticated and suave city has to offer.

Should you be planning an extended stay in Santiago, then here are some suggestions for your itinerary; our 7 of the best things to do in and around Chile’s capital city.

Sample Santiago’s Sandwich Culture

Santiago loves a sandwich, and that’s putting things somewhat mildly. Often so heavily laden that they require a knife and fork to tackle them, sánguches are an art form here, and are treated with the same respect as a sit-down, three-course meal.

So, pull up a pew and sink your teeth into a Chilean hotdog, the completo, which is topped with sauerkraut, avocado, tomato, mayo, green sauce and a whole host of other treats. It’s a fully loaded affair and deserving of a bib. Or, why not sample a churrasco marino? Here, fried fish rubs shoulders with avocado, tomato and coleslaw in a floury bap, and it is as delicious as it sounds.

If you’re in Santiago on the search for sarnies, it’s all about following your nose and eyes. Every street corner has a dedicated sangucherìa slinging the good stuff; all you have to do is look for the longest queues!

Read: The 10 best sandwiches in the world and where to eat them

Check Out The City’s Hugely Creative Restaurant Scene

It would be remiss of us to stop at sandwiches in our round-up of the best things to do in Santiago, however good they are in the city. 

Chile’s capital is also home to a cutting-edge fine dining scene, with several entries in the influential Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants awards. Flying the flag for indigenous Mapuche cuisine and its ingredients is Boragó, one of the most inventive restaurants anywhere on the planet. 

Sat in the foothills of the Cerro Manquehue mountain, much of what ends up on the plate here is foraged by a team of 200, and native only to Chile. Having worked at Noma (hey, who hasn’t at this stage?), chef Rodolfo Guzmán brings plenty of delicate, inventive flare to these ingredients, which very much remain the star of the show. 

Whilst it’s certainly not cheap, at $126.000 CLP (around £115) for the tasting menu alone, the restaurant represents a fascinating insight into ingredients you’ll likely not taste anywhere else in the world. If you’re to have one meal (apart from a sandwich) here, make it Boragó.

Admire The Incredible Street Art

You’ll see graffiti everywhere in downtown Santiago, but a crudely drawn cock’n’balls this ain’t. This is street art, make no mistake, with a proud tradition of protest against the military rule of Gen Augusto Pinochet in the 1970s. Modern iterations in the city remain resolutely anti-government, with the 2021 legalising of gay marriage celebrated vibrantly across Santiago via artistic expression.

If you’re wondering where to see some of the best street art in the city, check out the Culture Trip’s useful round-up here.

Photo by Evelyn on Unsplash

Visit The World’s Largest Swimming Pool In Algarrobo

Whilst we’re loathe to leave this fantastic city, even for a day trip, there’s good reason to take the two hour train west to the popular summer resort Algarrobo, which sits invitingly on the Pacific Coast. This is where santiaguinos and santiaguinas head for a weekend by-the-sea, sure, but there’s another attraction that draws in the crowds; Algarrobo is home to the world’s largest swimming pool!

Overlooking the ocean, the pool stretches for nearly 1’000 metres in length and covers 20 acres, following the curvature of the beach below. It’s an impressive sight, even more so when you’re actually immersed in the water. Just be warned; it reaches a depth of 35 metres… Wow!

Go Wine Tasting In The Maule Valley

Chile is revered worldwide for its wine, and some of its most famous producers are found in the surrounding countryside outside of Santiago. The Maule Valley, perhaps Chile’s most prolific (and certainly its oldest) wine region, is 150 miles south of the capital, and boasts a whopping 15 wineries. No wonder it’s been nicknamed ‘the cradle of Chilean wine’. 

Take a dedicated tour from Santiago to one or several of the region’s vineyards, or enjoy ‘wiking’ your way through a portion of the valley. Either way, you won’t want to drive for this one!

Scale Cerro San Cristóbal, Santiago’s Central, Towering Park

Back in Santiago, you’ll notice the city is replete with green spaces for rest and play, the largest and most significant of which is Cerro San Cristóbal, Santiago’s central park. 

We say central due to its importance to the city, but the park is actually found in Santiago’s northern quarter. We say park, but really, Cerro San Cristóbal is a hill sitting 300 metres above the city and providing incredible views below. 

Either hike to the top, which takes around an hour, or take a cable car, which takes considerably less time and is a pretty thrilling experience to boot. At the summit, you’ll find a zoo, botanical gardens, open-air swimming pools and so much more. 

For another Santiago hill experience, don’t miss out on Cerro Saint Lucia, which is a little more rugged and intimate, and no worse for it.

Explore Chile’s History Via The City’s Wealth Of Excellent Museums

Santiago has been one of Latin America’s most important financial and cultural centres for centuries. The city has also endured a troubled recent history, yet remains a resilient, often revolutionary place. 

It’s no surprise, then, that Santiago boasts some incredible art galleries and museums, from the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, which houses artworks and artefacts from pre-Columbian Central and South America, all the way to the Museo de la Bellas Artes (the Museum of Fine Arts). 

Santiago Presidential Palace, right in the centre of the city, is an impressive piece of architecture and is also free to visit, but arguably the most vital museum in Santiago is the recently opened Museo de la Memoria (Museum of Human Rights), which commemorates the victims of human rights violations during Pinochet’s brutal dictatorship.

A necessary, sometimes troubling visit, and one which details the UK’s sorry involvement. Suddenly, the vandalising of that statue doesn’t seem quite so flippant. 

How To Relax & Unwind At Home After A Long Day #WFH

Editorial Team
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How To Relax & Unwind At Home After A Long Day #WFH

It’s been a long day at work, which also happens to be home, and you need to unwind. Though the global pandemic that has defined the previous two and a half years is largely fading in the rearview mirror, its effects on the way we work are still very much in place.

In fact, in a study published in May of this year, as reported by Yahoo! Finance, it was found that ”24% of businesses planned to use increased homeworking as a permanent business model going forward”, with over 90% of respondents stating a desire to continue working remotely, at least in a hybrid fashion, for the foreseeable future.

Back in those heady, pre-pandemic days of 2019, we’d head home after work, slip into our PJs, park ourselves on the sofa and our troubles would disappear.

But things have changed immeasurably, and now it can be tough to find solace in the same space you’ve spent the whole day straining and striving. Not to worry; here at IDEAL, we’ve been doing this a long time and we’re here to help you take a load off.

Nope, we’re not going to muck in and help you meet your deadlines, but rather, we’ll offer this invaluable advice on how to unwind and relax after a long day #WFH.

Ceremoniously Shut Up Shop

Be rigorous about what time you shut up shop each day, and do so ceremoniously, even if all that means is switching on your ‘out of office’ auto reply or shutting down your laptop and putting it in its case until tomorrow. This will help you enter ‘home’ mode most succinctly. 

A Dedicated Relaxation Corner

With the computer closed and the mindset shifted into relaxation mode, it’s time to eke out a space dedicated to you and you alone.

First and foremost, the furniture you choose – or, more specifically, the chair – is going to have the biggest impact on how relaxing your dedicated ‘me time’ area ends up being.

With posture issues an ongoing problem for those still using hastily arranged home-working set-ups, furniture designed with a therapeutic angle is a good idea. Considering you’re seated and staring at their screens for long stretches each day, a chair that will cradle that hunched back and shoulders of yours is ideal.

As the guys at Sophie lift recliners tell us, a reclining chair with whole body vibration therapy, heat therapy, and different massage modes can ease those aching bones. Phwoar; we feel more relaxed just thinking about it.

Read: How to make working from home as comfortable as possible

A Glass Of Red & Some Relaxing Music

A double whammy of relaxation this one. 

If your day has been full of hustle, bustle, errands and demands, a little bit of ‘you’ time could be just what the doctor ordered, and one of the best ways to block out the business of the day is with relaxing music.  

And we’re sure we don’t need to tell you twice (we will; word count, and all that) about how relaxing a glass of wine can be. No matter how busy your day has been, sipping on a glass of red can certainly help calm you down. Couple this with some of that soothing music, and you’re in for a relaxing time indeed. 

Of course, it’s important to have some hard science to back up this claim which we think can provide…

  1. Once we thought that this was just the alcohol blocking out the day’s woes. However, as reported by the Metro, “Scientists say that plant compound resveratrol, found in red wine, helps relieve stress in the brain.’’ 
  2. Listening to relaxing music is a great way to unwind. As Time explains, music can buoy your mood and seems to “selectively activate” neurochemical systems and brain structures associated with positive mood, emotion regulation, attention and memory in ways that promote beneficial changes”
  3. Put the two together, and voila!

*disclaimer – this is purely speculation. we haven’t done any studies to prove that drinking a glass of red wine and listening to relaxing music together is relaxing – but it sounds pretty calming to us.* 

If you’re wondering what relaxing song to listen to, a team of neuroscientists have actually specified exactly which songs to listen to. In a study commissioned by Radox, it was found that listening to  ‘Weightless’ by Marconi Union (apparently the most relaxing song out there) is, incredibly, more relaxing than having a massage. 

Other relaxing songs chosen for the study are listed below, so create a playlist and pour one up…

1: Adele – Someone Like You 2: Barcelona – Please Don’t Go 3: Morcheba – Undress Me Now 4: airstream – Electra 5: Coldplay – Strawberry Swing 6: Massive Attack – Teardrop 7: Sigur Rôs – Sǣglôpur 8. Air – All I Need 9: Café Del Mar – We Can Fly 10: Jack Johnson – Upside Down 11: Moby – Porcelain 12: All Saints – Pure Shores 13: Enya – Watermark 14: Katie Melua – Nine Million Bicycles Track  15: Mozart – Canzonetta Sull’aria 16: DJ Shah – Mellomaniac (Chill Out Mix)

Now, the serious part; be careful about pouring that second glass as it’s not advisable to drink more than 14 units a week. According to the NHS, “Fourteen units is equivalent to 10 small glasses of low strength wine”. To put things into further perspective, a 750ml bottle of red wine (ABV 13.5%) contains 10 units; two bottles during the week will put you significantly over the recommended safe limit.

Unplug Your Devices

Relaxing is difficult in our digital world, and sometimes an intended period of downtime loses a fair part of its purpose if it’s simply spent staring at your device on your sofa. And don’t get us started on checking those emails while you’re not meant to be winding down for the day. 

Instead, relish the time away from your screen, full stop, and leave all devices at a safe arm’s length while you kickback.

Cook A Healthy Meal 

Preparing a healthy meal can actually be quite therapeutic. When you’ve had a busy day and your mind feels frazzled, drawing a line between the day from the evening by focusing your energy into creating your favourite dish can be hugely rewarding and relaxing. Put on a podcast, sharpen your knives, and luxuriate in some time standing up, stretching out, away from a screen and your worries.

Enjoy An Aromatherapy Bath

An aromatherapy bath with essential oils can be so relaxing, offering a whole host of stress relieving, muscle relaxing and mind soothing benefits. 

However, while the idea of a long, languid soak for hours seems wonderful on paper, many people (us, included) get bored in the tub surprisingly soon after settling in. 

Enter a waterproof portable speaker, preferably one designed with clever suction cups to ensure things stay stable and dry, and able to keep you entertained for hours in the tub if that’s your wish. Catch up on the news, listen to your favourite podcast, or sing along to your favourite tunes, all from in the bath…one of life’s greatest pleasures, we think.

Yoga & Meditation 

Give yourself some alone time at home after a long day, and take the opportunity to decompress. You can do this by taking deep breaths or doing progressive muscle relaxation exercises, and if you’re feeling particularly stressed out, consider trying yoga or meditation in your downtime. 

A daily guided meditation is another great way to tackle the endless, unhelpful rumination on the day’s issues which seems to blight bedtime. A simple, ten minute session before bed can actually trigger the body’s ‘relaxation response’ wherein heart rate and blood pressure fall, allowing you to be body-ready for sleep.

Go For A Mindful Walk

A walk is a great way to clear your mind of all that work-based clutter accumulated throughout the day, restoring a sense of relaxation in the process. Moreover, it’s a great excuse to get out and about into nature. 

The UK’s leading mental health charity, Mind, recommend reconnecting with the natural world in order to reduce stress and improve your wellbeing. And honestly, after a year of largely being stuck indoors, this is music to our ears.

Get An At-Home Massage

Though that relaxation chair with previously mentioned can certainly help with an impromptu, domestic massage, sometimes there’s nothing better than a genuine, hands-on treatment, let’s be honest.

De-stressing and decompressing from the daily grind could be a massage’s ultimate trump card. Indeed, if you’ve been having trouble unwinding after work, research has shown that deep-tissue massage therapy is the answer. 

However, it should be noted that this type of massage is for those who prefer more pressure. Nope, not that walking on the back, leaving you with more aches than you came in with type of pressure. Instead, the strokes are slow, but the fingers are pressing harder on the skin for relaxing the deep tissues. Give us some of that, please!

6 IDEAL Things To Do In Mykonos, Greece

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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6 IDEAL Things To Do In Mykonos, Greece

Sun, sea and a good dose of hedonism are just some of the many reasons hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to Mykonos every summer.  Synonymous with its buzzing nightlife and known to many as Greece’s equivalent to Ibiza, this little Cycladic Island, however, has so much more to offer than its party-hard reputation. Indeed, scratch the surface just a little and you’ll find this year-round destination has something for everyone. To help you pen your itinerary perfectly, here are 6 IDEAL things to do in Mykonos, Greece.

Spend A Day In Mykonos Old Town

Some may say that no holiday to Greece is complete without a trip to Mykonos Old Town. Known as Hóra, meaning the main town, to locals, the maze of narrow, winding streets that make up Mykonos Old Town are utterly charming. Lose yourself in its labyrinth of white-washed lanes, where every turn is a picture perfect Instagram shot, and discover boutiques, cafes, taverns and bars ripe for spending the afternoon in.

For a spot of culture, stop at the Archaeological Museum, home to a collection of ancient Greek artefacts. The Church of Paraportiani is another place as picturesque as it comes in Mykonos Old Town; no wonder, then, that it’s one of the most photographed churches in the world. Be warned,  in the high season (late May to early September), particularly between 10am-5pm when the cruise boats pull in, the narrow streets of the Hóra become congested and nearly impassable.

Enjoy Dinner & A Sunset Show In Little Venice

With it’s arcaded, balconied 18th century fishing houses sitting right at the water’s edge, if you think you’ve suddenly been transported to Italy’s famous city built on water, you’re not alone. Also known as Little Venice, Alefkandra wraps around Mykonos’ old harbour and is arguably the most charming area of ​​the entire island.

The beautiful azure blue Aegean Sea sits in front and Mykonos’ iconic white windmills behind, making Little Venice a truly striking spot. It’s also arguably the most romantic place on the island and the ideal setting to watch the sun descend with your lover. Heaven.

Perhaps our favourite place to wine and dine here is Katerina’s Bar, which serves light, fresh Greek fare. Space is at a premium on the patio (just three tables on our last visit) so book ahead and make that request if you’ve got your heart set on seeing the sun go down with your dinner. Kastro’s is great too; the dining room’s bright and airy, with spectacular views of the sea, but if you can get a table in their narrow, alley-like dining space, do so. It’s just magic.

Read: The IDEAL day out in Mykonos for foodies

Photo by Johnny Africa on Unsplash

Recline On Mykonos’ Famous Beaches

Mykonos has more than 25 beaches, most of which are covered with fine, golden sand accompanied by crystal clear, shallow water. Oh yes. However, they’re hugely variable, ranging from small to sprawling, from quiet coves to hedonistic, 24 hour wild parties on the sand, so choose wisely.

If you like an organised beach with beach bars, sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, then head to Elia, Platis Gialos, Kalo Livadi or Ornos. These ones get pretty busy, and noisy from jet skis and pumping beats, but they’re convenient and have a great energy.

Mykonos can do secluded, too. Ftelia, Fokos and Kapari never get too crowded and you can enjoy the wonder of nature in peace. Be aware that nudism is well accepted in Mykonos and there are specific beaches where birthday suit bathers can enjoy the sea and the sun without any disturbances. The nudist friendly beaches of the island are Paradise, Agios Sostis and Panormos.

For a feast on the beach, Nammos at Psarou Beach, Principote at Panormos Beach and Alemagou at Ftelia Beach all have their own restaurants offering great healthy dishes with Mediterranean menus of, primarily, fresh fish and seafood. You’ll find Mykonos villa rental available overlooking many of these pristine spots.

Revel In A Beach Party Or Two

When in Rome, as they say. Located on the southern coast of the island and attracting world-famous DJ’s, Paradise, Super Paradise, Psarou and Paraga are the ‘party beaches’, and can be the scene of things getting pretty rowdy. The parties kick off in the afternoon and keep going till dawn, with the sunset marking a notable transition from refined to raucous. It’s got to be done at least once while you’re here.

Hit The Dancefloor

Of course, there are times when you’d like to dance with shoes on your feet not sand between your toes. In Mykonos Town you will find Astra bar and Queen bar at Matoyanni Square; one of the buzziest parts of the island. At the edge of the city, Void club attracts young clubbers and offers 3 spacious levels for their entertainment. If you prefer dancing outdoors, you can go to Cavo Paradiso, the famous night club built on the rocks over Paradise Beach. The vibe everywhere is LGBTQ+ friendly and inclusive. Great stuff.

Visit The Windmills

One of the very first views that you’ll clock when coming into Mykonos port is a row of seven white windmills, built by the Venetians around the 16th century.

These windmills have become the island’s signature feature and something of an emblem of the place. As such, they represent an absolute must see if you find yourself in Mykonos. Not only is it a pleasant fifteen minute stroll from Mykonos Old Town to the windmills, but along the way you’ll pass several places to enjoy a snack and a souvenir, should you wish to take your time.

The only windmill open for the public is Mylos tou Bonni, a part of the Agricultural Museum of Mykonos where visitors can see all the machinery and tools that were used in milling in days of old. That said, the remaining six can be admired from the outside, and rest assured; they are a fantastic sight to behold (the vantage point on which they sit isn’t bad either!).

And if you’re keen to tick a few more sites off your bucket list, then check out these 5 IDEAL attractions in Mykonos well worth seeing. We’ll see you in 

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