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Romantic London: 7 Extra Special Date Night Ideas For Autumn

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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Romantic London: 7 Extra Special Date Night Ideas For Autumn

Hey, let’s look on the brightside a little as the days darken. Autumn is perhaps the season for lovers, a time to curl up and cuddle in, get cosy and content with time spent indoors, roll around in scarlet leaves and enjoy that strange seasonal thrill of stepping out in hats and scarves.

As such, never has there been a better time than now to inject some impromptu romance back into your relationship with a seasonally themed date night. If you’re looking for ideas to fuel that sense of spontaneity, then you’ve come to the right place; here are 7 extra special London date night ideas for autumn.

Cook A Romantic Meal Based On The Finest Seasonal Produce

Worried about securing a reservation at the latest hot London restaurant? Concerned about the cost of a cab home? Prefer to gaze into the eyes of your lover rather than into a menu? Well, why not celebrate autumn’s produce by cooking from its seasonal bounty at home?

That sense of place and time will only add to the seductiveness of cooking your partner a meal from scratch, and fortunately, autumn’s bounty is perhaps the most sensual of all, with wild mushrooms, warming spices, aphrodisiacal oysters, pert plums and fabulous figs all at their best right now. What better way to celebrate the changing of the seasons than cooking with them?

Why not head to one of London’s great farmer’s markets with your beau to do the shopping, if you’re keen to prolong your date for the course of a day?

In Borough Market, you’ll find several stalls selling seasonal British produce; Grovers, Ted’s Veg, and Stark’s Fruiterers are perhaps the most well-known. If you’re shopping north of the river, every Sunday between 10am and 2pm, you’ll find farmers markets in Islington, Marylebone, Alexandra Palace and many more locations besides!

Alternatively, and if the Great British weather permits it, of course, you could throw an autumn picnic for your partner in one of London’s fantastic parks – forty-seven per cent of the land is taken up by green spaces, after all – complete with hamper, bubbly and a seasonally-hued picnic rug to cuddle up on once you’re finished eating.

Read: 5 healthy eating tips for an autumn spent indoors

Book A Romantic Restaurant Meal With A Difference

Though you could, of course, book a candlelit meal in one of London’s top restaurants, that’s just so cliched, right?

Instead, another option is to visit one of London’s, aesthetically more unusual restaurants. There are plenty to choose from. A good starting point is this most Instagrammable restaurants in London list which highlights some stunning, conversation-provoking places to eat… Perfect for when you run out of things to talk about, don’t you think?

Read: 5 first date ideas for those who find small talk difficult

Oktoberfest In London

Whether you’re turned on by a partner dressed up in lederhosen, happiest when you’ve got a bratwurst in your hand or you’ve got a particular thing for the reassuring weight of a beer stein, this month sees Octoberfest events happening up and down the country. Could this be the perfect date night for lovers of finger food and frivolous festivities? We certainly think so.

Check out The List’s extensive directory of the UK’s Oktoberfest events here to find a venue near you, which includes a particularly renowned and raucous event in Camden!

London On High

London’s skyline looks spectacular as the sun sets over it, or when it is lit up at night. It’s also a hugely romantic view to take in, whether you’re having a drink in one of the city’s rooftop bars, going up in the London Eye, climbing up Primrose Hill or visiting Alexandra Palace.

From any one of these urban vantage points – as well the ones mentioned here – you can enjoy spectacular views of the London skyline with your date, whether it’s your first together or your five-hundredth. Just remember to pack a jacket or two; London autumn nights spent al fresco can get a little chilly!

Play Dress Up For Halloween 

If you and your partner are always on the lookout for excuses to get dressed up, then October heralds the ultimate occasion to just that; Halloween. Whether you choose to get kitted out in skeleton ensembles for a night at home spent apple bobbing, or you hit the streets to go trick or treating, this spooky celebration is the perfect excuse for a little role play.

Some of London’s best fancy dress shops include Beyond Retro on Brick Lane, Carnival Store in West Kensginton, and Costume Boutique on Ladbroke Grove.

Go Pumpkin Picking

If you’re looking for a date that takes place in daytime hours, then pumpkin picking makes for a beautifully autumnal-appropriate date, however cliched it might feel.

London has plenty of pumpkin patches currently open for a day of facilitated foraging…and hey, your day’s picking could even be used for that seasonal meal you’re cooking in the evening or Halloween party you’re hosting!

Spend A Night At The Cinema Watching A Scary Movie

If you and your partner are film aficionados who love a trip to the cinema, then Halloween season sees theatres across London showing both classic and newly released horror flicks.

A special mention should go to the Prince Charles Cinema, close to Leicester Square, who go reliably all out for Halloween with their HorrOctober month-long bonanza of all things terrifying; this spooky season is set to be no different!

Or, if you’re keen to travel further afield, then why not check out these 6 IDEAL haunted castles to stay in this Halloween? You won’t regret it! Or, perhaps you will…

5 Interior Adjustments That Can Significantly Reduce Your Energy Bills

Editorial Team
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5 Interior Adjustments That Can Significantly Reduce Your Energy Bills

We don’t need to tell you that rising gas prices cause concern for Brits as we head into colder months. What we can tell you is that to help tackle this concern, sofa and carpet specialist, ScS has offered these five easy adjustments you can make to your home to save hundreds of pounds on your utility bills.  

Replace Regular Light Bulbs With LEDs

One of the easiest changes you can make, but one that could save you nearly £1,000 a year, is to replace your standard light bulbs with LED alternatives.

LED bulbs come in all shapes and sizes and are incredibly energy-efficient, which does wonders for your wallet.  Indeed, LED bulbs use a fraction of the electricity compared to normal bulbs. Most LEDs use at least 75% less energy, saving you a huge amount on your bill.  

Move Your Sofa Away From The Radiator

Large pieces of furniture soak up heat, so if you place sofas or armchairs in front of your radiator, the warmth won’t circulate around the room as well. This means you’ll have to heat your home for longer, adding to your bill.  
 
Moving your sofa even six inches away from the radiator will allow heat to flow around the room much more effectively. This can save you up to 10% on your bills.  

The more space between furniture and radiators the better, but because heat rises, you can get away with smaller gaps if you don’t have much space in the room.

Don’t Heat Empty Rooms 

Every additional room you heat adds a substantial amount to your bill, so if there are any that you don’t spend much time in, such as those you use for storage, consider leaving them cool.  

If you have rooms in the house that you don’t use, turn the radiators off and close the doors, particularly in winter. This can cut your bill by as much as a third, depending on how many rooms you’re not using.

Move Furniture Away From External Walls 

You’ll feel the cold more if you’re sat by an external wall, so if possible, try to position your furniture away from the outside of the house.   

If you can arrange your house so that most of the furniture sits against internal walls, you should feel warmer. You’ll feel the heat from throughout the house, rather than the cold seeping through from outside. This should allow you to have the heating on for shorter periods of time and reduce your bill by 5 to 10%.

Corner sofas are particularly effective at making a room feel warmer as they leave less empty space for draughts to build. Ensure that at least one length of the sofa is against an internal wall to feel the most benefit.  

Leave your Blinds and Curtains Open Longer

Try to make the most of the sun’s heat and let as much natural light into your home as possible. This will reduce the amount of time that you need to have your electric lights and heating on, saving you money.  

It’s tempting to turn your lights on early in the evening and keep your curtains or blinds closed. However, try keeping them open until sunset, as the natural light and heat can help save you around 60% on your bills, compared to constantly having your lights on.

Furthermore, Kent Blinds and Shutters emphasises the role of blinds in managing indoor temperatures, ultimately leading to potential reductions in energy bills. Blackout roller blinds or Venetian blinds can effectively control sunlight penetration, limiting heat in summer and conserving warmth in winter.

This results in a more stable interior temperature, decreasing the reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems, thereby lowering energy costs. Such energy-efficient window solutions not only save costs but also contribute positively to the environment.

The Bottom Line

As we approach the winter months and the concerns around utility costs rise, it’s important to understand how little changes can make a big difference when it comes to saving energy and cutting down the cost of bills.  

This means that cost-cutting measures are going to be really valuable as we head towards the end of the year, particularly ones that are easy to implement, such as the five we have listed here.

If you’re after some ideas on how to keep warm at home this winter, we’ve got just the article here.

Budgeting Tips To Help Brits Navigate The Cost Of Living Crisis

Editorial Team
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Budgeting Tips To Help Brits Navigate The Cost Of Living Crisis

A new report by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) revealed that around 7.8 million people are struggling to pay bills – an increase of around 2.5 million people since 2020 – as inflation rises.

In tandem, 4.2 million people missed their bills or loan payments in the past six months, while a separate study from Trades Union Congress (TUC) found that 1-in-7 Brits are currently skipping meals due to the cost-of-living crisis.

It’s undeniable that households are coming under relentless pressure with the sharpest annual rise in food prices for over 40 years contributing to the fact that many are simply unable to keep up with monthly bills.

With this in mind, Mat Megens, personal finance expert and CEO/Founder of HyperJar, the nation’s most-awarded money-saving app shares his top budgeting tricks and tips that in order to make the budgeting process that much easier.

The 50-30-20 Rule

If you want to get a handle on your spending and budget effectively, you need to know where your money is going. The 50-30-20 method splits your money into different categories – 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings. However, it still provides flexibility given that everyone has different financial obligations and goals. You can adjust the rule in line with your needs, but it’s a good place to start. The guidelines are:

  • Allocate 50% for needs, including all essential payments each month (I.e. housing, transport, food, education, childcare, bills)
  • Allocate 30% for wants, including non-essential spending (treats, gifts, restaurant, fast food, social events)
  • Allocate 20% for savings and debt repayment (emergency fund, savings goals, credit cards)

Take on a Money-Saving Challenge

Sometimes, healthy competition can be a great method of motivating yourself – especially if you do it with a friend or family member. Try to do the 52-week challenge, where you save one pound the first week, two pounds the second, three pounds the third, etc. – after a year, you end up with ­£1,378. Alternatively, you can also try the pound-a-day challenge, or create your own game.

It’s also easier to do something when you have someone else to do it with. Getting yourself an accountability partner – or a money buddy – to match savings with you can act as a really effective way to save money. For example, HyperJar lets you share ‘Jars’ with others so you can put money aside, hold each other accountable, and track your progress together.

Read: 8 ways to save money on hot water

Visualise Your Spending and Budgeting

One of the most common mistakes people make when budgeting is that although they set a budget, they may not necessarily track their spending. This means that it could be harder to stick to your limits. Through money-saving apps such as HyperJar, you can get a visual representation of how you’re spending your money through a complete breakdown of your purchases according to category, merchant and savings so you’ll always be on top of everything. 

Budgeting templates can also help organise and track your income and spending in a clear and concise manner. When you understand your finances, you can then develop a plan for what you’re saving towards. It can also help eliminate the stress and anxiety of not understanding your spending and encourage you to be more on top of everything.

Save Now, Buy Later

The exponential rise of Buy Now, Pay Later schemes has made it increasingly easy to over commit expenditure and get trapped in a downward cycle – especially given that platforms such as Deliveroo now offer Klarna as a payment option.

Earlier this year The Guardian reported that “almost a third of shoppers who use buy now, pay later credit say repayments on the loans have become “unmanageable”, with the cost of living crisis pushing them into a debt spiral”.

In their app, HyperJar transform the notion of BNPL to Save Now, Buy Later. Through this, users are able to save for something over time and then purchase the item when you can afford it, compared to the instant gratification you get from careless spending.

HyperJar incentivises people to do this as by partnering with some of the biggest brands in the UK to offer people an annual growth rate on their money if they commit future spend to a specific retailer. At 4.8%, this is much higher than the interest offered by regular banks and is a great way of increasing spending power whilst nurturing a positive habit. It’s essentially the opposite of using a credit card because in the long run, you end up paying less.

6 Ideal Tips for Pumpkin Picking This Autumn

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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6 Ideal Tips for Pumpkin Picking This Autumn

Could there be a more quintessential autumn activity than pumpkin picking? Ideal for creepy Halloween carving, delicious desserts, creative curries and even those fabled pumpkin spice lattes, this versatile fruit is a treat for kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re in pursuit of something edible, carvable or mythical, to get the most from your day, we’ve teamed up with mrbonespumpkinpatch.com in Los Angeles to give you these 6 IDEAL tips for pumpkin picking this autumn.

EXPLORE FOLKLORE & FAIRYTALE BEFORE YOU SET OFF

In many parts of the world, we associate pumpkins with Halloween. We carve pumpkins out and illuminate them with a flickering candle, all in the name of creating a spooky but magical atmosphere. 

Symbolically, the pumpkin has links to fertility, rebirth, harvests, and crops, and are a perfect fit for a season that contains both Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Speaking of which, Thanksgiving is another time to enjoy the earthy delights that the pumpkin has to offer. It was early in the 18th century that pumpkin pie became a popular dish on the dinner table as Thanksgiving became a much-celebrated New England regional holiday. 

In 1705, Colchester, a Connecticut town, would famously postpone Thanksgiving for a week. This was because there was not enough available molasses to create these delectable desserts! This tells us just how symbolic the pumpkin is to Thanksgiving celebrations.

Pumpkins also play a major part in one of the most popular fairytales of them all; Cinderella. In the story, a pumpkin coach was created by the Fairy Godmother to take Cinderella to the ball, and now, the ‘Cinderella Pumpkin’ is a much loved type of pumpkin, with a deep orange colour, fantastic flavour and fairytale appearance!

Before your trip pumpkin picking, why not enjoy a day of exploring the myth and legend surrounding pumpkins to really get in the spirit of things!

IDENTIFYING THE PERFECT PUMPKIN FOR CARVING

Finding the perfect carving pumpkin at the patch is one of the most enjoyable parts of the day out, and can be turned into a game for all the family to enjoy. 

The best pumpkins for carving don’t always equate to the best for cooking, that’s for sure, but when choosing one for decorative purposes, there are a few things to look out for:

  • Steer clear of bruised pumpkins, which suggest the pumpkin is already on its way out and may collapse when cut into.
  • A smooth, unblemished surface indicates a healthy, carvable pumpkin.
  • Give your pumpkin a good knock. If it’s hollow, that means it’s ripe. Hooray!
  • Prioritise pumpkins with a deep orange colour, which shows they’re healthy and also looks more pleasing on your doorstep or in the window.
  • Make sure the base of the pumpkin is flat – otherwise, you may lose it as it rolls away into the street! 
  • Both the bottom and the stem should be sturdy, not mushy.

And if you really can’t decide, instead of using ‘eeny meeny miny moe’, use bibbity bobbity boo!

HOW TO PREVENT YOUR PUMPKIN FROM ROTTING

It’s such a shame when your carefully selected, intricately carved pumpkin begins to rot prematurely. It’s therefore essential that you wait until just a couple of days before Halloween to carve yours.

There are other ways to ensure your pumpkin’s longevity, too:

  • Pumpkins tend to shrivel and lose their vivacious appearance because of a lack of moisture. A daily spritz of water mixed with bleach will help rehydrate it.
  • Whilst it might feel like a faff, moving your pumpkin to the fridge each night will ensure longevity.
  • Though proper candles look great, the warmth they give off has a detrimental effect on your pumpkin’s condition, essentially cooking it from the inside. Instead, use battery powered or electric candles.
  • Prior to carving, clean your pumpkin’s inside with a mixture of water and bleach (5 litres to 3 tablespoons). This will disinfect it. Of course, don’t eat your pumpkin after doing this.

Read: 10 IDEAL beauty benefits of pumpkins

COMPETITIVE CARVING

Let’s discuss carving technique next. A serrated knife is ideal for carving pumpkins to create different shapes and faces whilst a small saw should prove useful to create intricate designs. It is best not to cut on a slant but up and down for a cleaner result.

It’s not advisable to let the kids use these tools unsupervised. Carve the pumpkin on behalf of your child or allow them to do it under supervision.

Turn the carving into a game, with points or prizes awarded for the most inventive, intricate design. You could also award prizes for those who manage to get their pumpkin to last the longest, which introduces an educational element about food waste into the fun and frivolity!

If you have kids and need some alternative pumpkin decoration ideas that don’t include a knife, check out our article on child safe alternative pumpkin decorating ideas.

COOKING WITH PUMPKINS

As HuffPost explains, “The best pumpkins for carving jack-o’-lanterns around Halloween aren’t ideal for cooking and eating”. The article continues to explain that “Carving pumpkins tend to have thinner walls that are more stringy, grainy and woody in texture ― which unfortunately doesn’t taste very good.”

The problem here is waste. Wales Online reports that around 18,000 tonnes of edible pumpkin ends up in the bin after October 31 in the UK alone. But it shouldn’t have to be this way; pumpkins contain many vitamins and minerals. These include vitamins A, B2, C, and E. Also, the minerals copper, iron, manganese, and potassium. Because pumpkins are high in lutein and zeaxanthin, they help prevent cataracts from forming and reduce muscular degeneration.

That said, pumpkins picked from the patch do tend to need some serious work to make them taste nice. If you’re going to cook with your pumpkin from the pumpkin patch, turning it into a soup or puree is a good idea, texturally. Lots of big, bold flavourings and spices will improve the taste, too.

If you’re keen to cook something properly delicious, types of pumpkin known for their superb flavour and texture include the Crown Prince, the aforementioned Cinderella, the Delicata, and our absolute favourite, the Kabocha squash. 

Many dishes or drinks can be created using pumpkins and squash. For instance, you can eat pumpkin lasagne, have pumpkin butter, snack on the roasted seeds, or drink a pumpkin smoothie or even pumpkin cocktails.

Check out our article on 5 IDEAL pumpkin recipes for autumn we hope you’ll love as much as us for some great ideas for your dinner.

COMPOST YOUR PUMPKIN

As mentioned, a lot of pumpkins are wasted each year. After you’ve carved yours and you’ve got as much autumnal feels out of it as is physically possible, be sure to compost the excess elements of your pumpkin in the same way you would other uncooked fruit and veg.

If you don’t have a council provided caddy bin, then check out community composting schemes in your local area. Some local farmer’s markets also offer a collection service for organic waste. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Whether they’re bringing nutritional, educational or traditional value, or simply providing the family with a focus for Halloween or Thanksgiving, the pumpkin is one of the world’s most beloved foodstuffs. 

7 IDEAL Tips For Working Out At Home With More Intensity

Editorial Team
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7 IDEAL Tips For Working Out At Home With More Intensity

Time. Of the essence. In scant supply. Is money. Nope, there aren’t many truisms about the ol’ ticking clock which exactly boast of its abundance. As such, we’re often left wondering why we’d ever waste so much of it. Tied to the desk, vegging out on the sofa, scrolling through our phones vacuously, sharing the gym with sweaty strangers… None are exactly making the most of our short stint on this earth, let’s be honest.

So, why waste it in the gym? As lockdown’s move into home workouts taught us, it’s eminently possible to stay fit, fresh and full of life without an expensive gym membership or even coming into contact with another human.

That said, as any keen home-workerouter will know, it can sometimes be tough to find that same motivation when exercising as home as it is in the gym. We’re here to help with that; find your motivation and run (on the spot) with it, with these 7 IDEAL tips for working out at home with more intensity.

Create A Dedicated Workout Space 

While we’re not all lucky enough to have a spare room that we can turn into a home gym at the wave of a credit card, most of us probably do have enough room for a little inexpensive home sports equipment like Mirafit dumbbells and resistance bands.

Another must have is a good exercise mat that will protect you from the floor and the floor from you. Yep, within the tight real estate of your arm span, you can give yourself a top to toe workout with even the most basic of kit.

If you’re blessed with a garden with enough space for a few bits, consider creating a ‘gym shed’ – exactly what it says on the tin – with the capacity for some aerobic exercise. A budget rowing machine and exercise bike can fit into a snug space fairly seamlessly.

What’s more, consider adding some non-slip gym mats to the floor of your shed to give you plenty of space for training or consider interlocking floor pads which you can easily shape to fit into your new workout space.

Make Use Of Furniture

In the midst of a cost of living crisis and in the spirit of thrift, both in the sense of saving money and time, you can get a surprising amount of intense exercise and strength training done by simply using items already in your home. This most succinctly applies to your furniture. Yep, take a look around; there’s loads of potential, and, therefore, no excuse to take things easy!

A solid dining room or kitchen chair is often the optimum height for doing squats, depending on your size. Begin by sitting on the chair with a straight back and arms out in front before slowly standing and lowering yourself back down, but just hovering above the seat; and there you have it, a simple squat. Alternatively, to work those triceps, use the seat as you would a bench at the gym, lowering your body but not letting your elbows bend more than 90 degrees.

Ladder drills are a great way to improve agility and burn plenty of calories when done at high intensity. It’s best if you have a garden (though you’ll probably only own a ladder if that’s the case anyway). Lay down your ladder and run or jump through each individual square, mixing it up to test different muscles. A quality step ladder that’s properly secured can also be used for step exercises, again, best done outside.

Calisthenics

Of course, you could forgo the equipment all together and harness the power of your body weight instead. This is a discipline known as calisthenics and it has been gaining serious traction in recent years, not least because it represents a super-intense workout when done right. And it can be done from the comfort of home with no equipment; what’s not to love?

Don’t be put off by the seemingly impenetrable term; it’s just a fancy way of describing pull, press and sit ups, air squats, planks and the rest. The beauty of this form of exercise isn’t only in the fact that it requires no tools (and no financial commitment or clutter), but also in the way in which it establishes a meaningful connection with your body and grounding with your foundation. In this respect, it works perfectly in tandem with a home yoga practice.

Try Boxing

Boxing is obviously a stand-alone sport, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t incorporate elements of it into your existing high-intensity workout routine. Boxing is in itself a high-intensity workout, but you can also alternate a session on the punch bag with different exercises from other disciplines. In fact, boxing is the biggest calorie burner of any sport, according to numerous studies, burning as much as 800 calories an hour.

When combined with other traditional calisthenic exercises in an HIIT programme, you may even burn more calories than that.

Take Shorter Rest Breaks

Everyone needs a minute to catch their breath and have a drink of water in the middle of their workouts, and it is important to listen to your body to make sure you are avoiding injuries from pushing yourself too hard. However, if you are looking for a more intense workout, another way to achieve this is by having shorter rest breaks during your routine. You certainly should still have them, but perhaps only give yourself 30-60 seconds to catch your breath.

Get Digital

Many home workout enthusiasts cite the only downside of such a discipline as being the lack of guidance and peer to peer motivation when doing things solo. There is, of course, a way to achieve that sense of camaraderie and receive expertise, and that’s through the internet.

Stream online workouts, download apps and participate in fitness forums to keep active in the working out community. Some of our favourite online and digital platforms include the apps Sworkit, for time constrained, tailor made workouts, and Fitbod, for highly precise muscle building. Forums well worth a look include Jetfit and Bodyspace. Go get it!

Of course, if your home gym is out back in the garden or garage, you might want to perform an internet speed test to ensure everything is running smoothly.

Choose The Right Fuel

There’s a direct link between what you eat and how you feel. How much of a difference it makes depends on a variety of factors, but the links are impossible to deny. On top of that, your body needs the right type of energy to keep you moving through the motions of your workout with grace and focus.

The perfect pre-workout feed should include protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. These three groups benefit from being slow burning yet energy-rich, giving you that much needed boost to sustain you that little bit longer and push that little bit harder. The best stuff to fuel your fitness push? Many athletes swear by a trail mix, but other dried fruits, nuts (particularly almonds), granola, cornflakes and yoghurt are all ideal pre-workout food.

And with that, we wish you all the best!

4 Of The Scariest Haunted Pubs In The UK That Are Ideal For Halloween

Editorial Team
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4 Of The Scariest Haunted Pubs In The UK That Are Ideal For Halloween

Love a good ghost story? Who doesn’t! This Halloween forget your ouija boards and trick or treating. Grab a pint and give yourself a real ghost story. We’ve hunted down the UK’s most haunted pubs, so hold on to your pint and try out one of these spooky establishments this Halloween.

Ye Olde Man & Scythe

Dating back to the middle ages, this ancient drinking tavern is the fourth oldest pub in Britain and is reputedly haunted by James Stanley, the 7th Earl of Derby, who was once beheaded outside. Recent CCTV footage filmed in February shows a creepy ghostly figure standing at the bar, and the live – in manager once reported mysteriously waking up with wet feet for no reason.

It serves a fantastic range of beers on tap, including the northern favourite Robinson’s Dizzy Blonde, seasonal ale Summer Lightning and the classic Timothy Taylor, making it a perfect pub to grab a pint with a poltergeist.

Address: 6 – 8 Churchgate, Bolton, Lancashire, BL1 1HL

The Grenadier Pub

This Victorian haunt was first host to the Foot Guards Regiment and has been frequented by the royals King George IV and Prince William to even the likes of pop star Madonna. It’s also home of ghostly Ceric, a young Grenadier who was once beaten to death there one night after cheating at a game of cards.  

Since then terrifying footsteps have been heard in empty rooms and disturbing moans have been heard from the depth of the cellar. Visitors have also seen objects appear or move with out explanation.

Pop down on Hallows Eve for a great selection of hand pumped ales, and an eclectic range of craft beers, including the fantastic Brooklyn Lager and the much-loved Brewdog’s Punk IPA. Just a note – we’d recommend against a game of cards…

Address: 18 Wilton Row, London, SW1X 7NR

Website: grenadierbelgravia.com

The White Hart Inn

This eerie inn may look like your typical Scottish pub, but it comes with a sinister history. It used to be visited by the infamous William Burke and William Hare, who used to entice customers back to their lodgings and murder them to sell their corpses to the medical school on the next street.

The most recent spooky incident was a photograph of a menacing dismembered hand just by the bar, taken by an elderly woman.

Tourists flock here not only for the haunting atmosphere, but also to try the great assortment of Scottish beers, such as Belhaven Black stout, Edinburgh’s much-loved Innis and Gunn, and the classic Tennents lager.

Address: 34 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2JU

Website: belhavenpubs.co.uk

The Skirrid Inn

Declared Wales’ oldest pub, this historic joint dates all the way back to around 1100, and has all the trappings for a truly terrifying experience. First used as a courtroom for those that deserved capital punishment, convicted felons were hanged from an oak beam above the staircase.

Since then, visitors and workers have reported having their hair pulled, glasses being thrown across the room and doors mysteriously being slammed. Grab one of their real ales such as the Welsh Brains Reverend James or Greene King IPA – if you can stand the sinister screams at night.

Address: Llanvihangel Crucorney, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, Wales NP7 8DH

Website: skirridmountaininn.co.uk

A Guide To Hosting The Ultimate Spooky Halloween Party

Editorial Team
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A Guide To Hosting The Ultimate Spooky Halloween Party

Summer’s gone, and with it, the long, hot days full of possibility and potential. We’re already mourning its departure.

Fortunately, Spook Season, more commonly known as Halloween, is somehow just around the corner. The seasons have changed at the drop of a hat, and we are mere weeks from one of the defining holidays of the autumn months. Naturally, you will want to throw a party to celebrate, because, well, any excuse, hey? 

But how should you go about planning your own Halloween shindig? Here’s our guide to hosting the ultimate spooky Halloween party.

Pick A Theme

No Halloween party is complete without a suitably spooky theme. While you could easily type the words ‘fancy dress’ on your invite card and hope for the best, where’s the fun in that? It’s a low-effort, low-stakes call to arms that many may simply choose to ignore. Instead, there are so many excellent ways you can get creative and refine your Halloween party plan.

For example, you could set the theme as ‘Dead Celebrities’, inviting your guests to come up with innovative ways to dress as spooked-up versions of beloved, long-gone household names. Think of the late greats, from silver screen sirens to rock ‘n’ roll icons, all with a ghoulish twist. To add an extra layer of authenticity to their costumes, why not suggest the use of patches for cosplay? A well-chosen patch can transform a simple outfit into an elaborate costume, adding depth and detail that will set your guests’ ensembles apart from the usual Halloween fare. Imagine a sequined glove with a zombie twist for a ‘Thriller’-era Michael Jackson, or a patch emblazoned with a lightning bolt for a David Bowie look that’s come back from the dead.

Alternatively, why not have everyone dress head-to-toe in black? When the lights are down low, it can be a super scary experience to bump into guests around every corner. The simplicity of the colour scheme means that the devil is in the detail. When the lights are down low, it can be a super scary experience to bump into guests around every corner.

Check out a few more alternative fancy dress themes for Halloween here!

A Prop Bar 

For those spoilsports who simply ignore the theme, turning up sans-costume and as their standard selves, firstly, get those ‘’what a scary costume!’’ jokes out the way. Then, point them in the direction of the prop bar you’ve so helpfully set up.

Some guests of course won’t commit to a costume, so set up a table full of props so that they can get into the Halloween spirit in an impromptu and, admittedly, half-arsed way. Stock it with facepaints, scary masks, and a few handheld props like broomsticks, wands and wings.  

Invest in some instant or polaroid cameras, too, and leave them around the house for guests to capture their most terrifying poses. Add a photo booth to the mix and you’ve reached event-based nirvana!

A House Of Games

Your party could be livened up with some brilliant Halloween-y games – or even a dastardly trick or two, to keep your guests alive and lively. Bobbing for apples is quintessential Halloween fare, as is any game involving spaghetti and food colouring – whether digging for treasure or simply creeping out an unaware guest.

You could also devise some simple spooky takes on popular party games. The horse racing game, for instance, is a luck-based drinking game played with a set of cards that could be easily spookified with a themed set or some distinctive props.

Refreshments

One of the most important aspects of any event is keeping your guests well fed and watered. You can provide all of the raucous Halloween entertainment you could dream of, but without refreshments both solid and liquid, things just aren’t going to kick off. 

Halloween, Trick or Treat and the rest, is a very sweet-focused affair, so you’d be a fool not to offer your guests an array of sugary snacks alongside some savoury bites. It’s the latter where your creative skills can really come into their own – think pumpkin vomit guacamole served with tortilla chips, octopus cocktails and Frankfurter fingers.

From tarantula eggs with venom dip to poisonous meringue mushrooms, check out our article on 9 IDEAL recipes for your Halloween party for more inspiration!

A Spooky Playlist

They did the mash, they did the monster mash – and now it’s your turn to do the monster mash, too! Music is nothing short of essential for any kind of party, and especially so for your themed Halloween bash. 

A playlist of Halloween bangers and esoteric creepy music can go a long way to setting the mood; you could even set up a Bluetooth speaker in secret to play scary sounds in quieter parts of your home and venue, to send chills down the spines of your more intrepid guests.

All-Out Décor

To cement the vibe of your party, you should not be afraid to go all-out on the decorations. Even with a tight budget, you can achieve a lot more than simple supermarket Halloween decorations. Creating your own cobwebs is so simple, and some crafty replacements of lighting with programmable LEDs can allow you to nail the vibe on a room-by-room basis!

And with that, can we expect our invite in the post?

10 Ideal Beauty Benefits of Pumpkins

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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10 Ideal Beauty Benefits of Pumpkins

When you think of October, instantly your mind draws towards Halloween; costumes, makeup and of course pumpkins (not just the latte!) But you may not have stopped to think about the benefits that pumpkin can have on the skin.

They are rich in vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants providing several natural beauty benefits. With the help of Glo Skin Beauty UK here’s 10 IDEAL beauty benefits of pumpkins, just in time for the cold winter snap.

BANISHES OILY SKIN

The proteins immersed in pumpkins have been known to remove toxins and any other impurities that may be clogging our pores leaving us with oily, acne prone skin. For treating oily skin, simply mix one tablespoon of pumpkin puree with one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Apply the paste onto your damp face and rinse off followed by moisturiser. Regular application of the paste will leave your skin feeling super smooth and soft!

TREATS DRY SKIN

Pumpkin works as a great skin exfoliator, perfect for removing the dead and dry skin cells on the surface of our skin that can be the cause of a dull complexion. For treating dry skin, you need to add two teaspoons of cooked or canned pumpkin puree with a half teaspoon of honey alongside a quarter teaspoon of heavy whipping cream and mix together. Apply the paste evenly on the skin (avoiding the eyes) and let the mask set for 10-15 minutes before rinsing and moisturising.

FIGHTS OF ACNE

If you are prone to acne breakouts, products that contain pumpkin extracts are great as they are packed full of vitamins E and T. The ingredient promotes healthy skin by reducing the pore size and preventing the appearance of pesky pimples. For a natural acne fighting toner, rub the inner flesh side of fresh pumpkin on to your face twice daily after washing for maximum results and full-face coverage.

RADIANT SKIN

Pumpkins are packed with antioxidants that brighten the skin and produce radiant skin cells. Being a good source of Vitamin C, it can help protect the skin from wrinkles and in addition, consuming the pumpkin can improve skin tone and elasticity.

RESTORES DRY HAIR

The winter weather can leave your hair lacking lustre. The compounds found in pumpkins such as minerals and flavonoids can make pumpkins one of the best natural hair conditioners.

To create the paste, take two cups of chopped pumpkin, one teaspoon of coconut oil, one tablespoon of honey and one tablespoon of yoghurt. After turned into a puree using a blender add coconut oil or honey to make it smooth. The paste can be applied on damp shampooed hair. Once left for 15 minutes rinse off with water and enjoy your gorgeous locks.

REVERSES UV DAMAGE

The beta-carotene in pumpkin helps reverse UV damage which brightens and smooths the skin. The carotenoids in the plant pigment that gives the pumpkin their orange hue slows down cellular ageing. Maintaining pumpkin at good levels through your diet can help to protect against damaging UV light and reduce the risk of developing cataracts.

TREATS DARK SPOTS AND BLEMISHES

Pumpkin can be a great oxidant for removing dark spots and maintaining supple skin. Add one tablespoon of pumpkin puree, one teaspoon of honey, one teaspoon of lemon juice and one teaspoon of vitamin E oil together and mix them thoroughly. Apply the paste to your damp face and let it dry for 30 minutes before washing off with water.

LIP NOURISHMENT

Pumpkin is in fact one of the best natural lip balms. The mixture is known as‘plumping pumpkin spice lip balm.’ Place 6 teaspoons of coconut oil and 3 tablespoons of grated beeswax in a double boiler, once melted stir in 1 teaspoon of pumpkin puree, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin spice and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir well and allow time to cool before
application to the lips.

NAILS OF STEEL

Rather than investing in costly strengthening polishes, pumpkin seeds work wonders for your nails. They are rich in Vitamin E, protein, zinc, fibre and are alkaline forming which fights inflammation in the body. Eating pumpkin seeds that are rich sources will keep your nails looking and feeling stronger.

BATHE WITH PUMPKINS

Oil that has been extracted from the pumpkin seed can be added to your regular bath providing a natural supplement which leaves skin soft and supple with no added extras.

Now here’s 5 ideal cooking ideas for pumpkin season.

5 Ideal Cooking Ideas For Pumpkin Season

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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5 Ideal Cooking Ideas For Pumpkin Season

The arrival of autumn and Halloween’s approach means one thing, and nope, it’s got nothing to do with Brexit. Instead, something much more interesting; it’s pumpkin season! But if you’ve spent the weekend carving Halloween faces into the winter squash, then why not take advantage of the gloriously low pumpkin prices and make use of that fibre-rich flesh?

To choose the best, go for one which feels heavy for its size, with a smooth, firm skin. After that, it’s time to get cooking. With the help of the Michelin Starred Restaurant Bohemia, here are 5 IDEAL cooking ideas for pumpkin season.

Pumpkin Pie

If we can thank Americans for introducing us to a dessert, it’s got to be pumpkin pie. The smell of nutmeg and cinnamon wafting through the house should be nostalgic even for those born on this side of the pond, so make it happen.

This sweet, savoury treat makes a delectable autumn snack or dessert and is served best with a dollop of fresh cream on top. For optimum results, spend an extra hour in the kitchen making your own crust – it will be worth it.

Pumpkin Pancakes

Ditch the usual pancakes in favour of the pumpkin variety. Simply puree a cup of pumpkin and mix together with buttermilk along with the traditional pancake ingredients to create a stack of perfectly fluffy pumpkin cakes. Finish with a dollop of spiced ice cream, perhaps cinnamon or cardamom (trust us) for best results.

Pumpkin Curry

Pumpkin is starchy and a little meaty, as such, it makes the perfect substitute for protein in a rich, sumptuous curry. It’s a much beloved ingredient in Thai cuisine, so get your hands on a red curry paste (or even better, make one yourself), fry that off in some coconut cream, then add cubed pumpkin and let simmer for a simple, delicious dinner. Finish with Thai basil and serve with steamed rice. Yum.

Pumpkin Risotto

This interesting take on risotto is a great dinner party dish, as its vibrant in colour and rich in flavour. Add texture and substance to the popular rice dish with pumpkin pieces, diced fairly small and added towards the end of the cooking process so they don’t break down too much. Rosemary and feta make agreeable accompaniments.

Check out our 7 tips for the IDEAL risotto over here.

Pumpkin Loaf

A similar proposition to banana bread, this, but supplementing the usual fruit with any leftover pumpkin – pureed or mashed – from your carving feats. For those with a sweet tooth, a thick layer of cream cheese icing will take your loaf from healthy to heavenly in minutes. With the addition of fall spices, this one smells totally enticing when baking. And tastes even better!

5 IDEAL WAYS TO COOK WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH

Joseph Gann
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO COOK WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH

That bulbous, heavy-as-a-newborn butternut squash can be a little intimidating on the approach. The exterior can feel Fort Knox impenetrable, the stringy, seedy section a chore to remove, and the length of cooking time required off putting.

But to put that squash back down in the shopping aisle is to miss out on a super versatile, sweet and nutty flesh, and myriad health benefits (a strong source of fibre, vitamin C and potassium, to name but a few). Don’t be daunted; here are 5 IDEAL ways to cook with butternut squash.

GETTING STARTED

Firstly, let’s talk about breaking this damn thing down. You can use a Y-shaped peeler, if you’re willing to invest in a new one every time you fancy squash (it’s going to get blunt).

Alternatively, you can cut a little off the base of the squash so it stands steadily on your board, and ‘shave’ off the skin by cutting downwards around the flesh (cutting the squash in two, crosswise, makes this easier).

Or, you can half the squash lengthways, simply roast in the skin and scoop out the flesh once it’s soft enough. All of this said, the skin, in theory, is edible. It’s just not very nice. 

ROAST

Now that’s done, let’s talk about method. There is something about roasting squash which brings out all the inherent beauty of the vegetable*. Its sweetness is intensified, its nuttiness elevated, and its texture transitions from starchy to creamy, meaty and giving.

We all know those browned edges equate to pure deliciousness, so be patient. And for that reason, we love to cube our squash into pieces larger than a dice but slightly smaller than your average roast potato (is that an acknowledged measure of size?). Then, season generously with salt, scatter with whole sprigs of thyme or rosemary, and cover with a generous glug of olive oil. 

If you’ve chosen to half the squash lengthwise and roast in the skin, then scoop out the seeds and stringy stuff, and fill that cavity with butter, salt and those hardy herbs we already mentioned. Lovely stuff. Either way, roast for at least 40 minutes, potentially longer, until there are places of caramelisation and the flesh yields to a knife, but isn’t complete mush.

Enjoy: in a warm salad of goats cheese, borlotti beans and caramelised red onion, with a vinaigrette. Or, with brown rice cooked in vegetable stock in the oven, finished with pine nuts and feta.

*yep, we know that botanically, it’s a fruit. But as a sage once said ‘a wiseperson knows tomatoes are a fruit, but only a fool would put them in a fruit salad’.

PUREE

You could do this with the roasted pieces, but the excessive richness might be a bit much. Rather, in the case of making a puree, we prefer the purity of cooking cubes of squash in cream or milk (personal preference), low and slow on the hob until tender.

Then, lift those pieces out of the liquid with a slotted spoon and into a food processor. Blend well, adding a little of the cream to loosen it as required.

Then, pass through a sieve so it’s super smooth. Of course, season well with salt, perhaps some pepper, a squeeze of lemon if the sweetness if overpowering, and even a little grated nutmeg.

Enjoy: with a roasted game bird such as pigeon or guinea fowl, as a sweet counterpoint to the ‘gamey’ flavour. Or, mixed with soft cheese as a filling for ravioli.

SOUP

Alternatively, you could let down that puree you just made with some stock to make a soup. Chicken stock, perhaps even a roasted, brown stock, works well but for vegetarians, of course a vegetable stock also brings body and extra flavour.

Simply warm both the stock and the puree in separate pans and whisk to combine (the ratios you use depends on how thick you like your soup). Enrichen with a little cream, if that’s your thing, or perhaps add some parmesan. Garnish with croutons and some roasted butternut squash seeds, for a really lovely feeling of synergy.

Enjoy: as it is, as a soothing lunchtime winter warmer, or with some crostinis of goat’s cheese and rosemary for a larger meal.

CURRY

The almost meaty texture of butternut squash (either roasted or steamed) and the way it soaks up flavour whilst retaining its integrity lends itself so well to curries. In Thailand, in particular, you’ll find many rich, unctuous curries with butternut squash as the headlining act, made rich with coconut cream and dried spices, it’s just delicious. A nourishing, healthy bowl from the Indian subcontinent using squash and chickpeas is another delicious way to harness the power of the versatile root veg.

Enjoy: as a midweek, lunchbox treat, or as part of a wider ‘family style’ sharing spread dinner

DESSERT

Yep, technically the butternut squash is a fruit. Kinda makes sense, then, that it works so well in desserts. Sub out your pumpkin for squash in a pumpkin pie, puree it and bake it in a loaf, or channel the intelligent, inventive cooking of East Asia and use it for all manner of desserts.

In Thailand and Cambodia, squash is often paired with sweetened coconut cream, or a duck egg custard made even more decadent with palm sugar. In Japan, a flan-like squash pudding is popular.

Enjoy: as a unique accompaniment to afternoon tea, or guilt free after a big meal, muttering ‘one of my five-a-day’.

Still in the mood for squash? Here’s 5 IDEAL pumpkin recipes for autumn we hope you’ll love as much as us.

5 Ideas For the IDEAL Evening Out In Amsterdam

Travel Team
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5 Ideas For the IDEAL Evening Out In Amsterdam

Amsterdam by night; there are few places more thrilling. Walkable, safe, bustling, buzzing and diverse, an evening out in the Venice of the North is worthy of a place on any traveller’s bucket list. Looking for a raucous affair? The ‘Dam has go you covered. Fancy something more sedate? ‘Geen probleem’, as the Dutch like to say. 

Should you be seeking inspiration for a getaway in the city as the sun sets and day turns to night, then read on; our 5 ideas for the IDEAL evening out in Amsterdam.

But Firstly, How Do You Get To Amsterdam From The UK?

An impromptu, long weekend in Amsterdam is eminently possible and surprisingly convenient, with the city well-connected to the UK transport-wise. Indeed, you can get to Amsterdam from the UK via plane, ferry, or train through the Channel Tunnel, all fairly reliably, promptly and affordably.  

If you choose to fly, then several UK airports run direct flights to Amsterdam, including London Gatwick, Heathrow, City, Luton and Stansted, as well as Cardiff, Bristol, Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast and many more. From London, the flight time is roughly an hour and a half. Visit DirectFlights.com for more information about non-stop flights available at every airport.

Travelling through the Eurotunnel is possible via both Le Shuttle, which acts as a drive-on service from Folkestone to Calais (you’ll then drive the remainder of the journey from France to the Netherlands), and the passenger train Eurostar that departs from London St Pancras and stops in both Rotterdam and Amsterdam. Both journeys take around four hours.

If you’re considering getting the ferry to Amsterdam, then you have three routes to choose from; directly, from Newcastle to Amsterdam, from Hull to Rotterdam and then driving or catching a train onwards, and finally, from Harwich to Hook Of Holland, which is an hour south of the city.

Once you’re there, consider buying an Amsterdam regional travel ticket from the Dutch state-owned rail company NS. For just €19.50, you get unlimited train, bus and metro travel in Amsterdam and throughout the region for the day.

And if you’re wondering how to fill your days in the Netherlands’ capital city (it’s not only about the nights out, after all), then check out Amsterdam’s City Card. You pay a fixed amount and get access to many museums and attractions.

You’ll also find itinerary inspiration in our guide to some of the best things to do in Amsterdam, of course.

Listen & Relax

If you like live music, then you’ll find Amsterdam to be accommodating to all tastes. Well-known concert halls such as the Melkweg, Paradiso or the Bitterzoet offer you the latest in pop, rock and basically every style of music you can think of, every night of the week, with heavy hitters and emerging talents playing in the Dutch capital regularly. For international stars, the larger gig venues such as the AFAS LIVE or the Ziggodome are the place to be.

Should you prefer smaller and more cosy environments, then the city’s many excellent coffee shops can provide the backdrop to an evening of live music and laughter. Amsterdam’s beloved Hunters Coffeeshop chain showcases up and coming local talent regularly, and the vibe inside is laid back and welcoming; ideal for those looking to enjoy one of those chilled out evenings which the city does so well.

Coffeeshop Amsterdam

Are You Ready For The Floor?

If you prefer to hit the dance floor, the best place to enjoy yourself are the entertainment areas around Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein. Trendy clubs such as Jimmy Woo and the Escape always guarantee a proper, ‘out out’ night out, with the best DJs (and atmosphere) in the world regularly gracing the hallowed booths and floors. 

Amsterdam also hosts some of the world’s most respected dance festivals. In mid-April, annually, the DGTL Festival takes place, and is a huge spectacle. And in late June, the Awakening Festival pops up all over the city, with household names in the DJ world playing both intimate and internationally renowned venues across town. Amazing!

Eat The City After Dark

From the famous waffle and pancake houses to a vibrant Indonesian restaurant culture, and of course plenty of street around the Leidseplein or Rembrandtplein, Amsterdam boasts a thriving food scene we just love.

Although ‘street food’ usually calls to mind stools in South East Asia or scooping up delicious curries with freshly baked bread in the Indian subcontinent, it’s can be a big deal in Europe, too. And hungry souls will be pleased to hear that Amsterdam has a great variety of popular ‘street’ dishes for you to get stuck into. A big thing in Amsterdam is the raw herring, and a must try if you are visiting, as well as chips with all manner of toppings and sauces!

If you’re not full, consider a longer, more immersive experience at Foodhallen. Set in the old tram depot in Amsterdam’s cool Oud-West neighbourhood and inspired by London’s Borough Market, Barcelona’s La Bouqeria and Torvehallerne in Copenhagen, Foodhallen is the first indoor food market of it’s kind in the Netherlands; a great introduction to the food of the city, we think.

We love the food scene here so much, in fact, we’ve written a whole other article on it. Check out our 7 IDEAL tips for foodies in Amsterdam, but be careful if you’re reading on an empty stomach!

Explore LGBTQ+ Amsterdam

An inclusive, open minded city if ever there was one, Amsterdam boasts the largest concentration of gay bars in Europe, and an LGBTQ+ scene proud to call itself one of the world’s largest. In fact, the Netherland’s was the first country in the world to legalise same sex marriage (in 2001) and continues to be a welcoming, progressive place to visit. Well, it would be rude not to check out some of the gay bars while you’re here, don’t you think?

For perhaps the most popular and happening gay friendly districts, head to Amstel for its ubiquitous Dutch ‘Brown Bars’ featuring local beer and traditional dress, or for nightlife, Kerkstraat and Reguliersdwarsstraat offer gay hotels and bars. For something a little more fetish, Warmoesstraat gets down and dirty until the sun comes up.

Enjoy The Scenic Canal Belt

An evening out in Amsterdam needn’t mean carousing, quaffing and consuming. Indeed, you can indulge in something low and languid and it still be incredibly special. There are a total of 165 canals that circle the city of Amsterdam, providing a natural border to the Pjjp, the Jordaan and the Museum Quarter – making the entire city picturesque and in its own way, peaceful. As the sun sets and shimmers off the water, there’s nowhere we’d rather be.

On any trip around the canals, you’ll find an eclectic mix of fantastic cafes, shops and galleries, ideal for an evening stroll simply to take in the scenery. The most attractive canal is the Prinsengracht which you will find lined with trees and quirky houseboats; visually stunning and wonderfully quaint for an inner city experience. There are also a whole host of smaller canals that are well worth a visit, such as Brouwersgracht, one of the best residential areas in the city.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE FAST ONLINE

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE FAST ONLINE

Language learning is notoriously difficult for us Brits, comprende? Perhaps it’s a complacency that everywhere will speak ours. Maybe it’s our antiquated school system and syllabus. Possibly we’re just a little lazy? Whatever the reason, it’s tough, but with an increasingly globalised world and the job opportunities that come with it, as well as travel getting cheaper and more accessible than ever, never has it been more pressing to pick up some new prose.

So let’s start at the very beginning, a very good place to start. The first step, of course, is to decide which language to choose. The best languages to learn are those which will help you progress in a career, globally, such as Mandarin Chinese or Spanish. Fortunately, these services are accessible even if you’re entering the process at beginner level; language learning can teach be taught to students wanting to build from the foundations up.

Here’s how to do so quickly and efficiently; our 5 IDEAL tips for learning a new language fast online.

CONVERSE WITH NATIVE SPEAKERS ONLINE

Let’s face it, in this day and age it’s easy to pick up a language online — all of the resources are at your fingertips and a lot of those are completely free. One of the best ways to practice your chosen language is via a ‘language exchange’ session online; you share some English conversation over Skype (other platforms do exist) with a partner, and in return they engage in a little conversation in the language you covert. Social learning at its finest, we think, and the worst thing that can happen is you’ll make a new friend. Here’s 9 of the best free language exchange websites.  

INVEST IN SOME LESSONS

For non-English speakers and other language learners alike, perhaps the most efficient way to study the structural, grammatical and theoretical concerns of a language is to take lessons online and engage in remote language training. A more serious financial commitment, sure, but one which will most likely pay dividends.

It’s easy and simple to start online classes, usually involving a simple registration and connection with a tutor who specialises in video chat classes. This will give the opportunity to engage in chat and more serious theory with a native speaker who is specifically trained to nurture and improve your skills. And that’s what it’s all about, right?

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE LANGUAGE VIA POPULAR CULTURE

Picking up a new language online needn’t have to revolve around academia, learning and study. There is another tool in your arsenal; immersing yourself in your chosen language via the medium of popular culture. So, should you be intent on learning Catalan, listen to some Rosalia. If your heart is set on Korean, it’s time to watch some fabled Korean romantic dramas. Do you need to learn Thai? Then get stuck into their version of Masterchef.

Though it won’t be a complete learning experience, when used in tandem with more conventional methods, it can really help with your natural pronunciation and rhythm of the language. You’ll probably pick up some slang, too; invaluable!

‘APPY TO HELP

Apps like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone have revolutionised the way we learn languages and it’s no surprise that they’ve gotten so popular in recent years; a quick, efficient way to learn the basics and pick up some useful phrases. What’s more, they have free versions, which although limited in scope and reach, provide an opportunity to get some beginner words under your belt.

Unfortunately, they don’t offer much in the way of more advanced learning, like grammar and conversational skills, but if you’re looking for a simple and cost-effective way to start learning a new language, then download away. For something a little more precision guided, you can also use text to voice tools that can help you learn new languages faster.

ASSIMILATE ABROAD

The single best way to learn a new language starts online; booking a flight to a destination which speaks it. Because there truly is no better way than getting in the middle of it and assimilating. Stepping outside your comfort zone and into direct, necessary interaction with native speakers is like pressing the booster button on your language learning. If you can afford to, you should.

5 Everyday Ways You Might Be Damaging Your Skin

Editorial Team
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5 Everyday Ways You Might Be Damaging Your Skin

And the IDEAL ways to remedy them.

They say that your skin tells a story. And sadly for those of us who neglect the body’s largest organ, our skin is a brutally honest narrator. 

Indeed, your face can show up all manner of sins, revealing long, late dark nights of the soul, excesses of booze, caffeine and cigarettes, and even a KFC habit you’d been trying to so hard to hide from your nearest and dearest. 

Whilst personally we’re all for wearing our wrinkles, blemishes and battle scars with pride – the blurb to a fascinating life story, if you will – if your complexion is looking a little lacklustre and causing you to lack confidence, then fortunately, it can be fairly easy to get to the root of the problem.

With that in mind, here are 5 everyday ways you might be damaging your skin, and the IDEAL ways to remedy them.

Too Much Sun Exposure

Relaxing under the summer sun might be your idea of heaven, but too much exposure to harmful UV rays can damage your skin. Sometimes, it pays to remember that while a sun-kissed tan is fleeting, skin damage is permanent. 

If you want to avoid the premature onset of deep-set wrinkles, leathery skin and sagging, it’s essential you avoid soaking up the sun for long, undisturbed stretches when outdoors. What’s more, you should always wear a minimum SPF 30 sun protection to shield your skin from harmful rays. This even applies to time spent outdoors in winter, which can still be damaging to your skin, even if it doesn’t feel like it.

You’re Using Too Many Products

An exfoliating cream or a quality face mask can improve your skin, no doubt, but excessive use could actually be doing it more harm than good. If you use these products frequently, you could experience unwanted tears across your skin, which can lead to crow’s feet or wrinkles developing prematurely.

Rather than scrubbing away at your body, it’s prudent to look for products which nourish and care for your skin from within. Prioritise natural products that tackle several issues simultaneously – Kollo health, for skin, hair, nails and more is a good example, containing collagen as well as Vitamins B and C – which can work wonders for your complexion. And always be wary of an ingredients list which details several items you perhaps haven’t heard of.

To learn a little more about what to seek out and what to avoid, check out these tips on the IDEAL skin care ingredients to look out for.

Taking Hot Showers

A hot shower might wake you up each morning with a kind of watery, scalding cuddle, but it could also lower your skin’s moisture levels quite drastically. 

If you’ve ever noticed how your skin feels dry, itchy, or flaky, you might need to lower the temperature when showering; a simple but effective solution for temperamental skin, and one which so many of us seem to neglect. In fact, warm water is much better for your skin, and can help prevent a red and blotchy look when you step outside the bathroom.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol can wreak havoc on your skin, as anyone who has woken up after a big session and looked in the mirror will attest. 

The demon drink can lead to dehydration in the body, which will make your skin both look and feel rough and dry. Plus, research suggests that excessive alcohol consumption can cause a dull complexion, puffiness, and even speed up facial ageing. If you do enjoy a tipple once in a while, be sure to drink enough water alongside it to rehydrate your body. Your skin (and other vital organs) will thank you for it.

Overdoing Processed Food

Operating under a rather ironic title, AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products) are formed when proteins or fats combine with sugar in the bloodstream. The formation of these AGEs are one of the key factors which contribute to accelerated ageing, and so foods which are high in them should be avoided.

Generally speaking, processed and fried food is highest in these AGEs, with butter, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and oil particular culprits. If you’re keen to prevent premature ageing, it’s first important to cut back on food high in AGEs.

The Bottom Line

Sometimes it can feel like there are dangers to our youthful, glowing complexions lurking around every corner. But by keeping your eyes open to the most common every day risks to your skin, you can mitigate the damage done. Good luck!

6 Delicious Things To Do With Pomegranate Molasses

Editorial Team
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6 Delicious Things To Do With Pomegranate Molasses

Though pomegranate season here in the UK is sadly coming to a close, thankfully you don’t have to look further than your store cupboard to keep getting your fix of this delicious, deciduous fruit bearing shrub.

Just follow that brooding, sticky trail to the back of your larder, and you’ll find a long since forgotten bottle of pomegranate molasses, from those halcyon days when the Ottolenghi cookbook was your bible. 

This versatile Persian seasoning can be deployed in a diverse, delicious set of ways, enlivening and enriching both savoury and sweet dishes, and if you’re looking for some delicious things to do with pomegranate molasses, then here are 6 of them.

Firstly, How To Make Your Own Pomegranate Molasses

Though pomegranate molasses can be bought bottled in any good high street food retailer, it’s surprisingly easy to make if you fancy giving it a go. You simply need some fresh pomegranate juice (which, again, you could actually make from fresh jewels of pomegranate, blended and passed), sugar, and a little lemon juice.

You’ll want to follow a ratio of 4 cups of pomegranate juice to 1/2 cup of sugar, and a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice. Simply combine in a wide, deep, uncovered saucepan and simmer until it’s reduced by half. This should take around an hour. 

Allow to cool (it will thicken as this happens), then decant the mixture into a jar. Store in the fridge and use for the delicious suggestions for pomegranate molasses that we’ve detailed below.

Alternatively, for an even more syrupy, stronger tasting seasoning, consider pomegranate juice concentrate, which has been reduced even further than molasses, with a more focused flavour.

Anyway, what are some delicious things to do with pomegranate molasses? Let’s take a deep dive into that syrupy liquid…

Help! We’re stuck.

By Borabalbey from Getty Images via Canva

Make A Piquant Dressing For A Haloumi Or Feta Salad

Let’s start with perhaps the most popular use for pomegranate molasses; as part of a dressing. This delicious sweet and sour dressing can be drizzled over a salad made from grains, parsley, fresh vegetables, grilled haloumi or crumbled feta (or all of them!) bringing sharpness and depth, and cutting through any fattier elements present in the dish.

Mince a garlic clove and finely chop a shallot. Then, add a tablespoon of lemon juice or red wine vinegar, and two tablespoons of pomegranate molasses. Whisk together, then slowly drizzle in five tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, whisking to emulsify.

Keep this pomegranate molasses salad dressing in the fridge, and use with all manner of creative salads.

In A Traditional Persian Stew, Fesenjan

Fesenjan is a delicious Persian stew that uses a base of walnuts and pomegranate molasses to amazing effect. Usually featuring chicken thighs and topped with pomegranate jewels, the result is a rich, piquant sauce that’s simply irresistible.

We’ll defer to the experts on how to make this one. Check out a great recipe for Khoresh Fesenjan from our favourite Persian Mom here.

By Jack F from Getty Images via Canva

Drizzle Over Fresh Fruit Or Ice Cream

Just because this is a simple idea doesn’t mean it’s not a delicious one. In fact, the interplay between fresh fruit and a drizzle of pomegranate molasses is just wonderful.

Even better, in our humble opinion, is a spritz of the stuff over some vanilla ice cream, creating a Jackon Pollock like visual effect and an alluring flavour. Take things even further into the left field with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and get back to us with your reaction!

Read: 10 IDEAL tips for making homemade ice cream

Use Pomegranate Molasses To Marinate Or Glaze A Joint Of Meat

Because of its syrupy yet acidic qualities, pomegranate molasses works well both as a marinade and a glaze for joints of meat, giving the protein a rich, fruity finish that’s sticky enough to be used as a glaze as you grill, too, all without insistent, excessive sweetness.

Simply mix minced garlic, sliced red onions, dried herbs, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice and a pinch of salt to taste, and massage into bone-in chicken thighs, a joint of gammon, or even a leg of lamb. Leave overnight for best results!

Don’t forget to save some of the marinade to use a glaze as you roast or grill your meat. Reduce the mixture over a medium to high heat until it’s really sticky, and use a pastry brush to glaze as you go.

Stir Into Sparkling Water For A Refreshing Drink

Let’s keep on keeping things simple; pomegranate molasses can be stirred into a glass of sparkling water and ice for a surprisingly complex-tasting mocktail. Garnish with a slice of blood orange and a curl of zest and you’ve got something properly intoxicating without it being at all, well, intoxicating. 

Fix Up A Pomegranate Martini

There is something beautiful about a drink that looks as good as it tastes. If you’re a fan of fruity tipples, then the pomegranate martini is the ideal cocktail for you. 

You’ll need vodka, pomegranate juice, triple sec, lemon juice, and some pomegranate molasses in place of sugar syrup, all in balanced quantities for best results.

Shake (not stir) them up together and pour them out for a delicious tasting, even more delicious looking cocktail that’s easy to make at home.

Speaking of which, check out these 9 cocktails that are super easy to make at home. You won’t regret it! Or, maybe the next morning, you might…

Should I Buy An E-Scooter? 6 Reasons Why

Editorial Team
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Should I Buy An E-Scooter? 6 Reasons Why

Love them or hate them, electric scooters seem to be everywhere in 2022, with Brits both regularly resenting almost getting hit by one and realising the benefits that this quick and convenient mode of transport can provide, often simultaneously.

Today, we’re here to focus on the positives. Whether you’re looking for a way to get around town quickly and easily, or you’re looking for a fun and healthy form of exercise, an electric scooter is a perfect solution. With that in mind, if you’re wondering whether you should buy an e-scooter, here are six reasons why you should in the not too distant future.

The Legality Of E-Scooters In The UK

Firstly, a word on the legality of electric scooters in the UK. Whilst there has been something of a moral panic surrounding this environmentally friendly mode of transport recently (likely led by Big Petrol, let’s face it), e-scooters are actually legal to own in the UK. 

There are, however, plenty of restrictions on just where they can be used; right now, you’re only allowed to ride them on your own private property or the private property of a landowner who has given you permission to do so.

Due to their relatively low carbon footprint and convenience, some local councils here in the UK are currently trialling their use on roads, testing the viability of electric scooters as a safe and effective mode of transport. Expect to see conclusions soon and, potentially, new laws introduced expanding where you can ride your e-scooter.

Anyway, how about those benefits?

Eco-Friendly

Of course, the biggest benefit that electric scooters offer is that they are much more environmentally friendly than many other popular modes of transport. 

Electric scooters run on electricity, which means that, while they’re in use, they produce zero emissions. That said, it should be noted that they are pretty energy-intensive to manufacture, meaning it’s a good idea, environmentally, to invest in a high quality e-scooter to ensure durability and longevity in your purchase.

Easy Mobility

One of the biggest benefits that electric scooters provide is the fact that they are incredibly mobile. Perhaps you wanted to grab a quick cup of coffee or visit a friend close by, but traffic is getting in the way? An electric scooter with a seat makes it easy to get around town, navigating traffic and getting to your destination without the cumbersome concerns of having to park your car.

Affordable Transportation

Another reason why so many people are considering the possibility of buying an e-scooter is that they make for an affordable transportation option.

If you were to look at the price of an average car compared to an e-scooter, you would see a big price difference. The average cost of buying a new car in the UK is a whopping £38’585. For an e-scooter, that figure stands at around £500. That’s not to mention that as gas prices continue to rise, the appeal of an electrically powered vehicle rises in tandem.

Of course, e-scooters and cars provide very different things, but e-scooters even do well in terms of affordability when up against a traditional scooter, such as a Honda Wave or Vespa, which can cost well over a grand.

Exercise

One benefit that many don’t think of when thinking of electric scooters is that riding an electric scooter is a great way to get some exercise while having fun. Why? Because you won’t be able to ride it up steeper hills or roads, in which case you will need to pick it up and carry it a short distance, which represents a great little workout. 

Fun

The next benefit goes without saying, and that is the fact that electric scooters are just plain fun to use! That feeling of the wind in your hair and sails, and a song of freedom in your heart (or, of course, on your headphones) whilst riding an e-scooter is pretty unparalleled. 

Though we should note that, for the record, you shouldn’t be using your headphones while riding one! Safety first, and all that…

Convenient Storage

E-scooters are a great transport option in terms of their storage demands, or the lack of them, rather. When not in use, most electric scooters fold up for easy storage, allowing you to store them in your bedroom, living room, or under the stairs. You couldn’t say that for a car!

And speaking of storage, if you’re wondering where you might fit that new e-scooter of yours, check out these great storage solutions for small houses. We’ll see you on your privately owned path, putting your pedal to the metal. Or rather, your finger on the buttons.

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