Everyone knows that the best thing to eat on Christmas Day is turkey with all the trimmings. We’re talking roast potatoes, carrots, Yorkshire puddings, those little sausages wrapped in bacon, cranberry sauce – the works. Then, there’s the spectacular Christmas pud that comes right after the showpiece, followed by a mince pie later on for when you’re falling asleep in front of the Queen’s Speech.
It’s easy to stick to tradition and apparently 76% of UK families will serve roast turkey on Christmas Day. We’re suckers for premature festive fever in this country too, as discovered by the Co-op when their year-on-year increase in mince pie sales was driven by the fact that they stacked their shelves full of them as early as September.
This year however, why not put tradition in a twist with these Christmas foods from around the world? Travel Republic have created a round-up of festive foods from Italy, Greece, Portugal, Germany, Japan and the USA, and in doing so, have made us very hungry indeed. So, here is our IDEAL guide to Christmas foods from around the world.
Christmas is just around the corner. Can you hear the children’s laughter, jingle bells ringing and strains of Mariah Carey? If you’re like us, then perhaps you’ll be putting your trust in Amazon in a last minute dash to occupy the empty space under the tree this year. Should you be looking for gifts for the aspiring chef or keen home cook or in your life, then we’ve got just the thing; our 8 IDEAL gift ideas for a cooking lover this Christmas.
UNIVERSAL LIDS
You don’t have to be a professional cook to understand the problem; you don’t even have to like cooking, in fact. But we’ve all been there – we have plenty of pots and pans, each one differently sized, but only half with their original lids. The universal lid solves this problem seamlessly and helps a cook declutter their kitchen, too; there’s no need to have them all stuffed in a drawer, taking up unnecessary real estate, when you need only have one, maybe two. These are generally made of silicone so it doesn’t mind the heat, but with a stainless steel interior which makes it extremely durable. Versatile and hugely useful.
GRANITE ROCK PAN
Many cooks consider the granite rock material as providing the best nonstick frying surface available on the market right now. Some even say that there’s absolutely no butter nor oil needed to use it, while others prefer to use at least a little lubricant (each to their own, hey), but all agree that a granite rock pan is the best non stick surface they’ve fried on. This might be because it has three layers of nonstick coating which ensures longevity and durability.
A SHARP KNIFE SET
If you’re looking to emulate restaurant standard food at home, then first things first; it’s vital to have the right tools for the job. And that means using the appropriate knife for each unique task, whether it be a long kitchen knife for dicing onions or a small paring knife for peeling a tomato. What’s more, a sharp blade is, conversely, a safer blade, as a blunt knife will slip and struggle. So, this year, gift the gourmand in your life a set of sharp knives and watch their cooking soar.
SOUS VIDE COOKER
You’ll have seen reliably pink duck breasts and vegetables pickled to extraordinarily bright colours on Masterchef and wondered just how they do it. Well, a sous vide cooker (an immersion circulator in some circles) is the key to this success. Indeed, sous vide allows your meat to cook slowly and at a stable, controllable temperature without the need for any adjustment or fiddling, leaving you to get on with other things. Now, would someone invent a machine to lay the table for us, please?
A PASTA MACHINE
Maybe that cook of yours is a fan of Italian cuisine? Hey, who isn’t? But when pasta is so readily available in supermarkets, the desire or necessity to make it from scratch from home is scant. But the results of the freshly made stuff can be mind-blowing.. The kneading, rolling and shaping of fresh pasta dough can also be an incredibly rewarding experience, and therapeutic, too. So, why not give the gift of superior spaghetti this year with a pasta making machine? There’s a great rundown of 8 of the best on the market here.
A FULLY AUTOMATIC ICE CREAM MAKER
You know how the old saying goes; give a man an ice cream and you feed him for a day, teach him to make ice cream, and you feed him for a lifetime. Or something like that. So, short of gifting ice cream making lessons (which actually sound pretty great too), why not buy an ice cream maker for a loved one this year? Essentially, they’re divided into two types, the manual version, which requires you to freeze the bowl prior to use, and a fully automatic machine, which doesn’t. Though the former saves space, the latter is easier to use and creates a much better ice cream.
A PERSONALISED APRON
An apron is something that every cook should own and wear proudly, but rarely do if they don’t cook professionally. But this leads to more washing of dirtied clothes and a messier mindset, equally. Change it all by making an apron an item which is fun to wear by personalising it! Of course, not all aprons were born equal; look for ones with adjustable neck straps, built-in special holders for kitchen utensils and extra-long waist ties. Once you’ve ticked all of those boxes, you can set about the fun part and personalise it, perhaps with their name or a picture?
SPICE MIXES
A truly passionate cook can never have enough spices. Indeed, have a nosey in any keen chef’s cupboards at home and you’ll see a whole array of exotic jars and items you’ve never heard of. This year, we think a personalised spice mix, imagined and made by you, is a lovely idea of a unique gift. There’s also the chance to package and present it in a beautiful way, which is all part of the Christmas fun, right?
Okay, first things first. Christmas dinner is a subjective, personal experience. Its enjoyment – and ideas of ‘perfection’ – are rooted in nostalgia, family and a whole load of subconscious things we don’t have time to address. This, then, is simply a rough guide to the necessities; those touches of flair and flourish that every great Christmas dinner needs. Everyone’s festive experience is different, and sure, sometimes we like to go wild and have a rib of beef or a goose. For tradition’s sake though, we’ve kept those urges in check here.
Of course, key to a great meal during the festive period is a well designed, thoughtfully composed menu, replete with trimmings and prepped in good time to avoid fluster and fuss. It’s cooked to perfection, presented with a certain panache, and given a frame by beautiful tableware setting the scene. So, with all that in mind, here is our IDEAL Christmas dinner.
THE TURKEY
Although there are a host of viable alternatives, a turkey is still the traditional choice and the centrepiece for most tables each Christmas. To create tender meat with a golden colour, you should first place the turkey on a wire rack over your sink and pour a kettle full of scalding hot water over the entire bird. This will tighten the skin and render away some of the excess fat. Pat dry the turkey and repeat the process a couple of times.
Stuff the turkey with your choice of stuffing, then cover the bird with generous amounts of melted butter, season with salt and pepper and then top with good quality streaky bacon. Wrap loosely in foil.
Cook the bird for 40 minutes on a high heat breast side down, then flip the turkey over and turn down the heat and cook for a further 2-3 hours, until the juices run clear, making sure to baste regularly. Once cooked, take off the foil and return to a hot oven until the skin has the desirable golden colour. Remember to let the turkey rest for up to an hour and a half – during this time you can get on with making the gravy and the veg.
THE STUFFING
A roast bird pairs well with a variety of delicious stuffings, so if you can’t decide on what sort of stuffing to have, make both; one in the bird and one served on the side. We love a sausage meat, onion and sage affair, but equally nice is spiced gingerbread for that festive feel. One key piece of advice; don’t phone this part of meal in. Give it the same care and attention as you do the bird, with proper seasoning and ingredients (no ready made, add water jobbies please!). The stuffing often turns out to be the most popular part of the meal, so be generous.
PIGS IN BLANKETS
Everyone loves these, especially the kids, and they’re great the day after, so don’t hold back. Try a mix of sausage wrapped in bacon and also prunes given the same treatment. If you’re feeling really adventurous – and we always are – then wrap an oyster in bacon for a saline hit.
THE POTATOES
Wash the starch off post peel. Take the boil to the very edge. Let them steam dry while heating up a generous amount of duck or goose fat and roast. Always allow for more time than you’d bargained for, as they always take longer than expected. Season well at every stage. Done.
BRUSSEL SPROUTS
These green vegetables are a firm favourite on most tables and at Christmas they are one of the supermarket’s most popular items. The key to great sprouts is to pick the small ones and avoid overcooking. There are some great accompaniments to sprouts, such as toasted almonds or crispy bacon lardons. Chestnuts and sage finished in goose fat is also a great way to jazz up the festive sprout. To cook, first bring some salted water to boiling point and cook the sprouts for around five minutes until they are tender to the touch.
HONEYED CARROTS
When there’s so much roasting and fat going on, you need a fairly plain foil in veg form or you’re going to get overwhelmed. Cooking carrots in a ‘vichy’ style means they’re beautifully sweet and retain some bite. Heat water, honey and butter in a pan over the hob and cook the carrots in the mixture, on a low heat, for around an hour. Add thyme half way through the process.
RED CABBAGE
For us, red cabbage occupies the same pole position as brussel sprouts on the Christmas table; centre stage and very much in demand. Recipes vary, but we like ours cooked with an apple, providing a sour and sharp element, cider vinegar, rich muscovado sugar to balance the vinegar and spices to give it warmth.
BREAD AND CRANBERRY SAUCE
Bread sauce is undoubtedly a divisive extra, but for us, it’s essential. We like ours heady with cloves and other spices. It wouldn’t be Christmas without it, right? When it comes to cranberry sauce, you can keep things simple with a shop bought sauce, but if you’re going to make your own, why not go all out with a port and cranberry sauce with juniper?
No Christmas would be complete without mince pies and if you are looking to give your guests a treat, warm, homemade ones are the best. There are some great ready-made mincemeat options available in the supermarket but it is quick and easy to prepare your own filling. You will need sultanas, raisins, dried figs, stem ginger, almonds, muscovado sugar, mixed spice, whisky, grated butter, lemon zest and a cooking apple. Simply mix the ingredients together in the quantities you desire and keep tasting until you get the flavour right. This can be made ahead of time and stored in a jar until the day, which will make your task much easier.
There are many simple pastry recipes available, but shop bought pastry is fine for creating quick pies on the day. Preheat your oven and roll the pastry out until it is around 3mm thick, cut out circular shapes and line your tin. Add your mincemeat until each is about 75% full and then place a pastry lid on top. Brush the tops with a beaten egg and bake for around 20 minutes until golden.
If you’re expecting a lot of guests, a panic about not having a large enough table is part and parcel of the hosting operation. However, even a trestle table can be made to look beautiful. All you need is a great tablecloth and some beautiful accessories. A striking centrepiece such as a festive wreath or candle arrangement can help set a festive scene.
TABLEWARE
No special meal is complete without beautiful tableware. If your cupboard is full of mismatched items, or perhaps you have fallen out of love with your current dinner set, Christmas is a great time to replace everything. The set will be brand new and help make your meal feel extra special. ACorelle dinner set will add a touch of class and the smash-resistant quality will ensure everything is protected.
A handmade place card can be a really neat, personal touch to your Christmas table. It can also help separate those feuding aunts with minimal fuss or place you next to the amusing uncle who always makes you laugh. Why not turn a cracker or bauble into a place card using matching ribbon? It’s quick and simple to do, and such a little touch goes a long way to making the whole event feel special.
I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream. And if those screams are louder than ever this festive season, turning into demands for a Christmas full of dairy deliciousness, then help is at hand. Because this year, it seems there are more options than ever for lovers of the frozen stuff. In the name of research, we’ve made our own, scooped our own, and tried everyone else’s, looking for the best ice cream gifts around. Whether you’re looking for gifts for men, women or kiddywinks who are ice cream obsessed, these are those; our 5 IDEAL gifts to give an ice cream lover this christmas.
WARMING ICE CREAM SCOOPER
If you’ve been watching professional Masterchef recently and have marvelled at those perfectly rounded, structurally inscrutable scoops of ice cream they present so effortlessly, then you’re probably wondering just how they do it? Well, that’s no normal spoon they’re using, let me tell you. More likely, it’s a modern innovation in ice cream serving; a warming scoop, complete with thermo conductive handle, like this one from the guys over at Cool Material.
A FULLY AUTOMATIC ICE CREAM MAKER
You know how the old saying goes; give a man an ice cream and you feed him for a day, teach him to make ice cream, and you feed him for a lifetime. Or something like that. So, short of gifting ice cream making lessons (which actually sound pretty great too), why not buy an ice cream maker for a loved one this year? Essentially, they’re divided into two types, the manual version, which requires you to freeze the bowl prior to use, and a fully automatic machine, which doesn’t. Though the former saves space, the latter is easier to use and creates a much better ice cream. Check out this guide to 9 of the best ice cream makers on the market right now.
AN ICE CREAM TOUR OF LONDON’S BEST GELATERIAS
When just one flavour isn’t enough. This year, a gift of an ice cream tour, taking in five of London’s best gelaterias and twenty (yes, 20!) ice cream flavours, could be the perfect present for that ice cream lover in your life. Chocolate Ecstasy Tours take you on a two and half hour stroll of central London in search of the best stuff in the city, as well as milkshakes, sorbets and the rest. Bring your appetite and a childlike enthusiasm and this might be the most fun you have all winter.
ICE CREAM CLOTHING
Pharrel Williams is a man of many talents. A recent addition to his portfolio is being one of the world’s leading purveyors of ice cream based clothing. Indeed, a selection of t-shirts and running jeans adorned with images of cream and cone can be found within his Billionaire Boys Club clothing line. Because if we’re not proudly wearing an item of clothing stained with melted ice cream, we at least want a picture of the good stuff somewhere on our body.
AN ACTUAL, DELICIOUS TUB OF ICE CREAM
Though it might melt wrapped under the tree over night, giving the gift of actual, delicious ice cream this Christmas shouldn’t be overlooked. Yep, Ben & Jerry’s, one of the world’s finest and most famous ice cream producers, offer tub delivery all over the capital, with a guarantee of structural integrity on arrival. How you choose to present the tub once it’s in your hands is up to you; perhaps with Christmas card coded directions to the freezer? Anyway, happy eating and Happy Christmas to all!
Hands up if you’ve spent much of the last two years while in lockdown or working from home watching Bargain Hunt? Yep, us too. If you haven’t watched it, then it’s about time you did. The BBC show’s premise is two pairs of contestants are challenged to buy antiques from shops or a fair and then sell them at auction for a profit.
Perhaps you’ve watched episode after episode of Make Me a Dealer, which sees amateur dealers invest their own money to buy items at auction before trying to sell them for profit?
Or, maybe you’ve developed a particular affection for Flog It, Restoration Roadshow, the Antiques Roadshow, or any of the other ‘collectables’ shows that the BBC likes to air? What we’re trying to say is that the nation has a taste for collectables, auctions and antiques that shows no sign of slowing up soon.
No doubt after watching such shows, you’ve considered whether you could turn your own bargain hunting into a lucrative side hustle. Perhaps; here are 4 collector’s items that do well at auctions.
COLLECTABLE COINS
We all know that coins are valuable – they are money after all! Just one example; earlier this year, This is Money reported that some of the scarcest 50p coins could now sell for £900. And they’d know, right?
The most valuable coins are usually ones that have a low mintage number. A coin’s mintage is the maximum number of coins that have been produced; the lower the mintage, the rarer the coin and the more attractive it is to collectors and bidders.
There are lots of expert indexes out there that reveal the scarcity of some coins and this is a simple and efficient way to gauge whether a coin is likely to perform well at auction.
It’s also well known that if a coin has a commemorative design, then they may well be more desirable to collectors. As such, recently many people have shown interest in the Brexit 50p coin (even if they didn’t vote for it) because they want to know if it has any value and if they can profit from it.
Additionally, if you are interested in collecting unique and meaningful coins, you may want to explore the military challenge coins as they do tend to hold value, not only for their rarity but also for the stories and significance they carry. They often have sentimental value, as they are given as tokens of appreciation and camaraderie within the military community. Owning one of these coins can be a source of pride and a way to honour the sacrifices and accomplishments of those who serve.
Finally, if a coin is uncirculated, it may well sell more for one that’s been in circulation.
It’s important, however, to be alert to counterfeit coins, which can be worth a fraction of the price of those that are real, so it’s definitely worth taking some time to make sure they’re all genuine. If you’re not sure about the authenticity of a coin, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and assume that it might not be genuine. This way, you won’t end up disappointed down the road if it turns out to be fake.
As Lovemoney explains, “Toys don’t typically cost a fortune, but over time through the power of nostalgia these children’s playthings can increase in value. In fact, some of the rarest and most sought after toys can sell for thousands, and in some very special cases, millions”.
But who buys these toys? Well, toy specialist Kegan Harrison of Tennants Auctioneers in North Yorkshire told the Mirror, “The mainstream of toy collecting is a generational thing and is led by 40 to 60-year-olds who are re-buying their childhoods.”
Interestingly, it’s essential that the vintage toys you’ve collected or accumulated are in mint condition, with those still in their box far more likely to fetch a good price at auction. If you have a toy that’s missing a part, then it’s a smart move to track down a spare online, even if it takes time and costs a little money; you’ll increase its value significantly if the toy is in one piece.
VINTAGE ADVERTISING ENAMEL SIGNS
Vintage signs are hugely sought after and popular amongst bidders. Early enamel warning signs, in particular, are always in demand with collectors and interior designers.
Why are they so sought after, we hear you ask? Well, Catawiki posits that perhaps it’s because there is something ”inherently ‘cool’ about the way they look with their rusty edges, catchy slogans and bold colours”. We couldn’t agree more.
So, what signs to look out for? As an insight, Catawiki sold a Sandeman Port & Sherry sign from 1951 for €2,800 and another Sandeman Port sign for €3,356.
Moreover, the Journal of Antiques explains that “Much of the most beautiful examples of the artwork involved are for alcohol, tobacco and firearms. These companies were the most successful at that time. Therefore, it was easier for them to afford the best artists and the finest printers in the U.S”.
If you stumble across an enamel sign, Catawiki say there are few things to consider when working out it’s value:
1.) Condition – Fade and rust from exposure to outdoor weather can influence the value negatively.
2.) Visual appeal – They say that “signs that are quirky and comical are more likely to do well at auction.’’
3.) Scarcity – Is the sign special or unique? Were a limited number made? Is there evidence of the signs being discontinued?
EARLY CHINESE ANTIQUES
Do you remember the recent story of one lucky shopper who bought a Chinese vase in a charity shop for £1 and it sold for a whopping £484,000 at auction after it transpired it was made for a 18th Century emperor?
John Schofield, head of the Asian Arts Department at Eldred’s, told Invaluable that “As China becomes a more powerful force in the world, more and more people have become interested in Chinese antiques.” He goes on to explain that “items with the most provenance are most sought after.”
The antiques and collectables site explains that much Chinese art was taken by missionaries and travellers, then dispersed throughout the globe without any recognition of their value. Suddenly, pieces assumed to be common or basic are being re-discovered as rarities.
Moreover, many historic pieces were destroyed in the 1960s and 1970s meaning that real, authentic Chinese antiques are scarce. All this said, and because of the popularity of Chinese antiques, it should be noted there are many fakes out there, so do your due diligence when purchasing such a collectable.
So, what pieces should you look out for? Snuff bottles, vases, plates, and teapots made out of bronze, jade, clay and porcelain all do particularly well at auction. Painting and sculptures can be lucrative, too, with the most sought after type of sculpture being one made from white jade.
Though you might not be lucky enough to stumble across a white jade sculpture in a charity shop, it’s still worth being tuned in to what makes money.
We’ve been told that we should all be working from home, yet again. And with that announcement, the tricky balancing act of accommodating various family members into hastily arranged home office setups resumes.
Let’s accept it; this configuration is rarely going to be harmonious. We’re all still scarred by the last time our homes were filled with phones going off, the noise of never-ending Zoom calls, and the WiFi grinding to a halt. But most of all, we’re still scarred by the tension that followed. That said, there are a few tweaks you can make to your home to ensure it’s as conducive to productivity and unity as possible.
With that in mind, here are 5 tips to help you design the perfect #WFH setup for your family.
COLOURS TO INSPIRE WELLNESS & CREATIVITY
When we’re working from home, it’s all to easy to feel restless and uninspired. What we need is a space that’s filled with positive vibes and one that promotes wellness and creativity to overcome these feelings. One way to create a space that’s filled with positive vibes is to use simple decor tips and tricks to liven up your space. And one of the most efficient ways to channel these vibes is through colour.
Instead of staring at blank, white walls while you and your family work from home, rejuvenate your living space with colours that positively affect your mindset. Some of our favourites to inspire wellness and creativity include:
Orange is a very stimulating colour that has a vibrant look and ‘feel’. Moreover, the addition of orange tones to a room can bring new life and a sense of joy. As such, it’s a great choice for home office spaces, helping to keep you energised whilst working.
Yellow is a colour that uplifting and a mood-booster. It makes us feel cheerlful and energised – very useful when working from home.
Pale pink is a colour that we love; it’s quiet, comforting and a colour that says everything will be ok.
Green, known as the colour of harmony and balance, this is colour that will bring that feeling of peace into home; something that’s very welcome when all the family are at home together. It’s also the colour of nature, and as we’re spending more time indoors right now, adding a few licks of green to your home helps by bringing a bit of the outdoors in.
So, why not consider giving your home working space a lick of paint to bring about a renewed sense of domestic harmony.
Speaking of green, when it comes to designing a domestic space that promotes wellness, nature is a crucial element that should be incorporated into the design process at every turn. Enter houseplants.
Indoor plants are not only beautiful to look at, but they also introduce a sense of nature and the outdoors to your home, and we all know how essential nature is in lifting mood and boosting workplace wellbeing, particularly when we’re confined to our makeshift offices.
If you’re wondering which houseplants are particularly adept at lifting the spirit and productivity of your home working space, then check out our guide on just that here.
DIVIDE AND ZONE
As the Evening Standard highlights, “We’re switching from open plan to ‘broken plan’, creating separate personal hubs in our homes for working, family time, study and leisure”.
Indeed, when working from home, our households need different spaces for all the family to enjoy their own definition of peace and downtime, and open-plan (which was, until recently, incredibly in vogue) has suddenly fallen out of favour because of this.
Broken-plan living has emerged as a compromise here, due to the pitfalls that come from pursuing an open-plan living project; something that has become very obvious since we’ve all started working and spending more time at home.
The idea behind broken plan living is to keep all the things you love about open-plan – in particular, the light and openness – while at the same time zoning the space to allow for more privacy, which is essential when working from home, don’t you think?
So, how do you achieve broken-plan living? Well, structural elements such as walls of glass, shelving and mezzanines help designate different areas within the same room. Indeed, broken-plan living can be achieved by something as simple as creating ‘walls’ through the use of open boxed shelving units in an already open space.
Of course, you don’t want to regress back to packed, poky rooms, so don’t cram the shelves full of books – instead, artfully arrange a few favourite ornaments and books to signal the change between one room and another and leave some of the shelves open to allow light to freely cascade. Screens that fold back are also an ideal way to separate home and work life.
On a more simple level, we’re big fans of using different colour paints and wallpaper to define and zone different areas of a room.
UPGRADE YOUR BATHROOM
The bathroom is one of the only areas of your house where you can truly find peace, quiet and serenity. Where else are you allowed to sit undisturbed for a stretch of time? In fact, many home office workers have said that they have their best and most creative ideas while sitting on the can. Who knew?
As such, to help the whole family achieve a more peaceful home working environment, why not concentrate on turning your bathroom into a sanctuary away from the rest of your household? You can turn your bathroom into your own private spa, introduce some more modern features like a Bluetooth stereo or voice-controlled radio, or simply introduce a more fashionable colour palette, such as teal, pebble shore or misty mountain.
The only problem now is the queue to spend time in everyone’s new favourite room!
After working in the domestic office for an extended period of time, the four walls of home start to feel like they’re closing in. Instead, why not extend your living space outdoors? Yes, even though it’s winter, as the Norwegians quite rightly say, ‘’there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.’’
If you have a balcony, patio or deck, add a windshield to shelter it from the wind and other elements, creating a little sanctuary for family members to take five and gain some new perspective. Add a chiminea or an outdoor heater to your decking area, or, alternatively, an outdoor fire pit, to make the space even more welcoming (and warming).
By attracting members of the family outside, to get some air and enjoy this groovy new decking space, you’ll also free up some space inside of your home. Result!
The modern world is without doubt a stressful one, with a 2018 report by the Mental Health Foundation revealing that, in that very year, ‘’74% of people [had] felt so stressed they [had] been overwhelmed or unable to cope.’’
And considering all that’s happened since 2018, we wouldn’t be surprised if that figure was much higher as 2021 closes to increasing uncertainty.
Whilst stress is generally associated with mental strain, it’s sometimes overlooked just how acutely it can manifest physically, too. And that’s before we consider recent changes to the way we work, the impact that has had on our posture, and the associated aches and pains that can bring. When this leads to more stress, it can be a vicious circle that’s hard to break free from.
Somewhat ironically, the modern world presents as many cures to stress as it does causes, from meditation apps to online therapy, cutting edge medication all the way to flotation tanks. But one of the most potentially effective ways to reduce stress is also one of the oldest: massage therapy.
But what other benefits might be derived from this ancient healing practice? Here are some potential benefits of massage therapy.
INCREASED BLOOD CIRCULATION
Blood circulation is critical for the preservation of a person’s physical health. Cardiovascular exercise is arguably the best way to improve your blood circulation and raise your body temperature. But for those who are looking for another way, or who might not be able to work out regularly, massage could help, too.
The three most common massage techniques to help improve circulation are effleurage, wringing and lymphatic drainage. In order to make you more comfortable, the specialist will concentrate on the portion of your body that is most sensitive to pain. Such spots are usually the neck, the spine, and the back.
RELIEVE MUSCLE TENSION & STRESS
Our muscles may get stiff rapidly, especially if we are under a lot of stress for a long period of time. Indeed, our muscles absorb our stress without us realising it, as when we’re feeling this way, we tend to tense in a ‘fight or flight’ response. The waist, shoulder blades, and neck are particularly prone to these reactions.
Massage can be of great help in relieving these aches and pains and their associated stress. A recent study reported that even a ten minute massage ‘measurably reduces stress’, with decreased production of the stress hormone cortisol observed in patients. Increased endorphins, serotonin and dopamine was also noted.
INCREASE FLEXIBILITY
Massage can also help increase flexibility and motion, particularly in those who suffer from injuries. A physician can give you guidance on what you should do in order to improve your unique situation, but they’ll often suggest massage therapy as part of a holistic program of rehabilitation. It is advisable to begin physical therapy as soon as possible after a diagnosis of injury, in order to gain a full range of motion as quickly as possible.
Indeed, massage can help increase a patient’s range of movement by raising the temperature of soft tissues, as well as helping with tissue elasticity, and reducing swelling.
As our friends at Infinity Massage Brighton tell us, sports massage is particularly effective in such instances, as ‘’Sports massage works by loosening tight or stiff muscles and improving the flow of blood and oxygen in them. This helps with the removal of metabolic waste materials. It also reduces muscle spasms, cramps, and pain caused by nerve compression near joints.’’
That said, for those who are perhaps less active, a deep tissue massage might be more appropriate.
We all know how important sleep is for our health. In fact, it’s been suggested that not getting a regular dose of 7 to 9 hours can lead to many potential health risks, including a weakened immune system, a higher chance of developing diabetes, depression and heart disease, and more.
Massage therapy may well help those who suffer from insomnia achieve better sleep. According to Sleep Review, ‘’The National Institutes of Health has advised that massage therapy can reduce fatigue and improve sleep’’. Which begs the question, is there anything massage can’t do?
The best way to gain access to massage therapy is to speak to your doctor and request a referral to a professional who is experienced in dealing specifically with the problem you’re presenting.
It’s also more sensible to seek the services of a professional masseuse, done therapeutically and by a qualified professional, such as an osteopath or chiropractor registered with their corresponding medical regulatory bodies, the General Chiropractic Council and the General Osteopathic Council.
Your anniversary represents an important time to re-ignite things with your significant other, keep your relationship fresh and keep that spark alive.
Whether this is your first anniversary or your 20th, you and your partner deserve a night of romance to not only bring you closer together but to set a tone of love and caring for the following year, too.
That said, finding inspiration for new and original activities and gift ideas can be hard when you spend every day together. We’re here to make things easier; here are 12 ideas to blow your partner away on your wedding anniversary.
GETAWAY WEEKEND
A getaway weekend is a perfect way to have a romantic time with your loved one while leaving the stresses of your everyday life behind. And after the two years we’ve all had, doesn’t that sound like just the ticket?
Find the perfect island hideaway or pick somewhere a little chillier and cosy up together in an idyllic cottage. Your weekend getaway doesn’t need to be exotic, though; you could travel to a new city or take in the sights at one of the many beautiful national parks in the UK.
It can be hard to find time to relax, and many couples use their anniversary as an opportunity to find replenishment and recharge, ready for the year ahead. One of the best ways to do this is by enjoying a day of luxury at a relaxing spa while you unwind together with a couple’s massage, ideally done side-by-side and in tandem.
However, if you’re on a budget, you don’t have to miss out on the spa day experience altogether; you can still enjoy the fun of massages from home by getting some oils and taking turns giving each other pampering time.
Sometimes the simplest things in life are the most lavish luxuries, and being able to do nothing but spending the day in bed together is one of the most popular. Whether you enjoy breakfast in bed together, have a film marathon, or just enjoy a day of relaxation and romance, there are plenty of ways to relish in your anniversary celebrations without having to leave the bedroom at all. Sounds blissful to us!
PHOTO BOOKS
Your treasured moments continuously grow as your relationship does, and photo books are the perfect way to commemorate your anniversary. Not only is a personalised photo album a fantastic gift, but flipping through your memories is a wonderful way to spend your anniversary, too.
You will both laugh at all of the good times you’ve had as you reflect on your favourite snapshots from your relationship.
A NIGHT IN A HOTEL
Staycations have increased hugely in popularity (or, should that be ‘necessity’?) since the pandemic began, and spending a night in a local hotel is an excellent way to get some time to yourselves when you can’t step away from commitments for too long.
Enjoy a romantic meal before heading up to a luxury room when you can indulge in room service and breakfast in bed without your usual household responsibilities.
Or, if your budget is tight, why not recreate that luxury hotel room experience at home? Click here to read more on how to do just that.
MAKE A “REMEMBER WHEN?” POSTER
Every couple will remember the magical moments they’ve spent together, and whether they were profound, hilarious, wild, or indulgent, it’s always fun to reminisce. Even if you don’t have photos that capture your favourite moments, you can still create a poster that lists your favourite moments. Share a smile every time you pass the poster and find inspiration to create more of those amazing memories in the future, too. Hey, is someone cutting onions?
TICK AN ITEM OFF YOUR BUCKET LISTS
Bucket lists are a great way to organise your dreams and what you want to achieve in life, but on your anniversary, why not tick something off both you and your partner’s lists?
You may have to put some extra planning into your day, but it will be worth it to create a truly memorable anniversary. Choose something your partner has been longing to do that you will also enjoy or find something that is on both your lists; it could be anything from going to see a favourite band to jet-setting to a destination you’ve only dreamed of visiting. The world is your oyster!
HIRE A PRIVATE CHEF
Instead of heading to a restaurant, why not make your anniversary even more intimate and about just the two of you, and book a private chef to come to your home for an extravagant evening? You’ll more say over the menu, hold more sway over the pacing, and the chef’s skills and seasonings will be entirely focused on you.
LOCATION OF YOUR FIRST DATE
A cute way to spend your anniversary is to head back to the place you had your first date and relive the magic of that moment while creating new memories, too. Even if you’ve moved away, you can still go back to that magical night by making a weekend of it; you can spend time visiting all the places you used to go, luxuriating in a long walk down memory lane.
Many couples start their relationship by heading out to clubs where they can dance, but as time goes on, most couples stop having time to enjoy the romance of dancing close to each other. Consider taking the time to relive those moments and kick off a steamy night by hitting the club, or if that’s not your scene anymore, you could keep it classy with local ballroom dancing or even try your hand at the tango.
TAKE A LUXURIOUS SOAK
A luxurious soak in the bath is a romantic way to warm things up at any time of year, but why not turn your shared love of bathing into a weekend getaway? The UK is blessed with some incredible log cabins and chalets that boast hot tubs, some of which can be taken in front of a roaring fire… sounds like the perfect winter anniversary to us!
While visiting the location of your first date is a wonderful way to spend your anniversary together, why not try your wedding venue instead for added magic? You could reserve a spot with your venue to spend time enjoying lunch, wine tasting, a picnic on the grounds, or even ask the venue to supply a selection of the food you served during your reception. While touring the grounds, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to recreate your favourite wedding photos to look back on for years to come.
Ideal for a having a merry ol’ time this festive season!
We all love a festive tipple, but this year, why not look beyond the port, sherry and Buck’s Fizz, and create a truly exciting Christmas cocktail? Here’s a cracking recipe for a Santa’s Side Sleigh which will have all the adults in the household purring.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
WHAT YOU NEED
40ml Cognac
20ml triple sec
20ml cranberry juice
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
1. Add 20ml cranberry juice to the Cognac and triple sec in an ice-filled cocktail shaker, then strain into a coupette. Garnish with redcurrants and a twist of lime peel (all fruit, vegetables and herbs should be washed before use) and enjoy.
To turn this delectable drink into a mocktail, simply replace the Cognac with grapefruit juice and the triple sec with orange blossom honey.
Ideal for a DIY gift this year or the perfect partner to the festive cheeseboard.
A gorgeous homemade chutney is sure to go down a treat with the foodies in your life, and pairs beautifully with stilton, brie and any other festive cheeseboard favourites this Christmas. If you manage to resist eating it all yourself, a pot of this great Christmas chutney makes for a wonderful DIY gift, too!
Preparation time: 15 minutes plus time for cooling
Cooking time: 1 hour
Makes: 1.4kg or 3 x 450ml jars
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
3 Best of British Apples, peeled, cored and chopped into small chunks
3 large red onions, finely sliced
50g fresh ginger, peeled and julienned
1½ tsp pink peppercorns, roughly crushed with the back of a knife 600g granulated sugar
270ml cider vinegar
2 Cooks’ Ingredients cinnamon sticks
1 tbsp mixed spice
1 star anise
½ tsp salt
600g pack fresh or frozen cranberries
WHAT YOU NEED DO TO
1. Preheat the oven to about 180ºC, gas mark 4. Wash the jars and lids in hot soapy water and rinse well, but do not dry them. Leave them to stand upside down on a roasting tray while they’re still wet. Put the tray into the oven for about 15 minutes, until the jars and lids have been sterilised.
2. Put all the ingredients except the cranberries in a large, heavy-based saucepan. Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved. Stir to mix the ingredients together before turning up the heat.
3. Simmer gently, uncovered, for 45 minutes. The apples will have softened and become translucent. Stir occasionally, especially at the edges of the pan, to ensure that none of the chutney sticks to the bottom of the pan and burns.
4. Add the cranberries and bring to the boil. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, until the cranberries have all popped and the chutney has become red in colour. Carefully spoon into the sterilised jars, discarding the cinnamon and star anise. Close the lids tightly and leave to cool at room temperature. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months. Once opened, keep in the fridge and use within 2 weeks. Delicious served with Stilton, strong Cheddar or ham.
The ideal alternative to banana breadand a wonderful Christmas afternoon tea treat.
Here at IDEAL we love a fruity, zesty cake. And this one full of almonds and cranberries has a real Christmas kick. It’s meant to serve 10, but we’ve found it doesn’t last long even in the company of a couple!
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 55 minutes to 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes
Serves: 10
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
225g unsalted butter, at warm room temperature
225g golden caster sugar
4 British Blacktail Medium Free Range Eggs
175g self-raising flour
1 tsp baking powder
50g ground almonds
Finely grated zest and juice of 1 large orange
175g fresh cranberries
50g granulated sugar
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
1. Preheat the oven to 170ºC gas mark 3 and grease and base-line a 1kg loaf tin.
2. Place the butter, caster sugar and eggs together in a large mixing bowl. Sift in the flour and baking powder and add the ground almonds and orange zest then beat until just thoroughly mixed, taking care not to overbeat. Fold in the cranberries.
3. Spoon into the prepared tin and level the surface. Bake for 50-60 minutes until well risen and a metal skewer emerges clean from the centre of the cake.
4. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven sprinkle the top with the granulated sugar and pour over the orange juice to soak the sugar. Leave to cool in the tin.
Christmas 2020 is nearly here. And while there isn’t much we can control this festive season, we can decide what goes in our coffee. Oh, the possibilities! To get into the spirit of the season, why not add in some festive ingredients that can spice up your beverage? Whether you want a creamy texture or a buzz of strong flavours, turn the festive frivolity up several notches by adding a dusting of magic and topping your mug with plenty of sprinkles and lashings of whipped cream.
To share the best Christmas additions, coffee expert Lewis Spencer of Coffee-Direct.co.uk, reveals the 10 ways to add Christmas magic to your coffee.
CINNAMON
This sweet, sharp spice can increase the sweetness of your coffee without you actually having to introduce sugar to your diet. You can add a dash of cinnamon to your coffee grounds before you brew them to infuse the flavour directly into your pot, stir in a teaspoon of the spice or add a cinnamon stick to your mug.
WHIPPED CREAM
Nothing says Christmas like whipped cream on top of a hot beverage! Whether you imagine it’s a pile from freshly fallen snow or Santa’s upside down beard is up to you, but all we know is that it’s darn delicious, too.
Whipped cream in your coffee is a similar principle as adding ice cream, it’s simply cream that has been aerated. If you add it to your hot coffee it will slowly become liquid again; you can either stir it in completely, so it doesn’t clump up or spoon your whipped cream over the hot coffee and add a dashing of cocoa on the top.
PEPPERMINT
When the temperature outside has dropped, there is nothing better than a peppermint coffee. When paired, coffee and peppermint bring out the flavours in each other; the quickest way is to stir 2-3 tablespoons of peppermint extract into your coffee. For an extra special finish, garnish with sprinklings of candy cane. For a grownup kick, add some creme de menthe!
BRANDY
Coffee with brandy is generally considered an after-dinner drink and used as a digestif and it makes the perfect Christmas evening treat (although we have to admit slipping one into our morning coffee on the Big Day, too). For a Coffee Royale cocktail, add 2 tablespoons of brandy to your coffee, stir in sugar and top with heavy cream.
GINGERBREAD SYRUP
Gingerbread syrup is flavoured with warm spice and is perfect for drizzling in your coffee to create a cosy feeling. You can either add some on top or cover the bottom of your mug before adding in your coffee. No extra sugar is needed as the syrup is the perfect balance of ginger, cinnamon and biscuit.
ALL SPICE
Mixing in a variety of spices at once will create a melody of different flavours. This is also the special ingredient for the well-known pumpkin spice latte. Simply mix ½ teaspoon of allspice, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger to recreate the classic pumpkin spice mix.
NUTMEG
Sprinkle some nutmeg onto your coffee beans before roasting them to create a unique Christmas flavour. The pieces will stick onto the coffee beans creating a flavoured coffee. For the best results, sprinkle nutmeg and brew ⅔ of light roast and ⅓ of dark roast, which will create a medium blend of coffee with dark notes and sweet tastes from the spice.
ORANGE ZEST
To pair orange zest properly, push the orange down the grater fairly gently and be sure to turn as you go, trying to avoid the white part of the peel as this can be incredibly bitter. You can either add it to your brewed coffee and allow the nutrients to settle before you consume or place the orange zest in the filter so the brewed coffee passes over the zest to capture the flavour.
BUTTERSCOTCH
Like caramel, butterscotch is a cooked sugar. Simply put, the sweetness of butterscotch paired with coffee is a taste sensation. You can either make your own sauce with brown sugar, heavy cream and vanilla extract or buy butterscotch syrup. Add the butterscotch to your coffee mug and top with hot coffee.
MARSHMALLOWS
Topping your coffee with marshmallows is a fun alternative to cream and sugar. Simply top your hot coffee with small or big marshmallows and watch them melt into your mug. For a sweeter experience, place some in the bottom before your pour and stir thoroughly.
Ideal for your making the most of your Christmas Dinner leftovers.
The term ‘leftovers’ traditionally seems to bring with it a sigh and a moan. ‘Why must the turkey be so big?’, ‘what will we do with all of this?’, ‘so glad it’s a whole year before we have to do all of this again’…..
But a turkey pie certainly puts leftover meat to good use, and when done right, it’s the highlight of the festive season. This Christmas, everything is getting downsized a little, so why not make smaller pies for the freezer or give to others to take home?
Any unbaked mini pies can be put in the freezer for up to 1 month, then cooked from frozen – adjust the cooking times as needed, cover with foil during baking if they become too brown and cook until piping hot throughout. If you have some Christmas gammon or bacon to use up, throw that in the pie, too, for some extra flavour.
Preparation time:30 minutes + cooling
Cooking time:50 minutes
Total time:80 minutes + cooling
Serves: 8
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
25g unsalted butter
800g cooked turkey, shredded into bitesized pieces
2 small trimmed leeks, washed and cut into 2cm rounds
3 tbsp plain flour, plus extra for dusting
500ml fresh chicken stock
2 tbsp wholegrain mustard
200ml tub crème fraîche
½ x 20g pack tarragon, leaves only, roughly chopped
200g cooked Brussels sprouts, sliced
500g pack Jus-Rol Puff Pastry
1 British Blacktail Medium Free Range Egg, beaten
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
1. Heat the butter in a large heavy-based casserole or saucepan. Add the turkey, cooking over a medium heat for 5-6 minutes, until evenly browned. Add the leeks, cover and cook for 3 minutes. Uncover, stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Pour in the stock and bring to a brisk simmer, stirring and scraping the base of the pan throughout, for 4-6 minutes, until the mixture thickens.
2. Set aside to cool for 30 minutes before stirring in the mustard and crème fraîche. Mix in the tarragon and sprouts and transfer to a large pie dish, at least 1.5L in size (to make smaller pies see our tip, below). Leave to cool.
3. Preheat the oven to 220ºC, gas mark 7. Roll out the pastry on a floured work surface until large enough to cover the pie dish with plenty overhanging. Cut 1.5cm strips from the outside of the pastry. Brush the rim of your dish with egg, place the strips on top and brush these with more egg.
4. Lay the pastry sheet on top of the pie and make a couple of cuts in the centre to let steam escape. Crimp the edges, brush with more egg and decorate, if liked, using the pastry trimmings. Bake for 5 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 200ºC, gas mark 6. Cook for a further 30-35 minutes, until golden and piping hot.
This recipe was bought to you with the help from our pals at Waitrose.
Yep, we’ve just dropped the C-Bomb, and in the IDEAL offices, we’re already thinking of where to put up the tree.
It seems like we’re not the only ones; Retail Magazine reported last month that Brits were buying in their Christmas decorations earlier than ever before this year. And if the predictions in the media about Christmas food shortages are to be believed, we half expect the turkey panic buying and Brussels sprout hoarding has already begun, too.
But as anyone who’s made the family coo over their Christmas dinner cooking will know, the secret to festive food good fortune is that you make your own luck; proper planning, smart shopping and keeping your cool is the name of the game here. To help you have a stress free and delicious festive feast this year, here are the best Christmas dinner cooking tips.
SALTING SMARTS
There’s a reason why culinary professionals and chefs put so much emphasis on salt and seasoning; it is the difference between a bland meal and one bursting with flavour.
Rather than only seasoning your Christmas dinner when it’s all out of the oven – which so many home cooks tend to do – make sure you’re salting gently but progressively as you go, building layers of flavour and depth in the process. That not only goes for the meat you’re roasting, but also the water you’re using to parboil vegetables and the sauces you’re making, too.
The salt you use is important too. Make sure that you are using kosher salt or sea salt; you’ll find Maldon Sea Salt in most supermarkets and corner shops now.
Do make sure that you salt lightly each time you do – remember that you can always add salt but you can never take it away. Taste as you go to ensure you’re getting the balance just right; it’s with this discerning palate that the best Christmas dinners are made.
GOOD INGREDIENTS MATTER
When considering Christmas dinner (or any meal, in fact), so much of the hard work is done before a single hob is turned on or any knife is sharpened. Indeed, the most important cooking decisions are actually made in the shop, on the farm, or at the market.
Have you ever tasted a dish at a restaurant, and wondered just how they can make it taste better than anything you’ve ever done at home? Well, it happens to people all the time, but there is a simple explanation for it. They just use quality ingredients. And lots of butter. Lots and lots of butter.
Good restaurants make a huge effort to source the very best ingredients around. They don’t hope that their berries or tomatoes are going to be ripe, they demand that they are, and if they are sub-par once or twice then, they will shop somewhere else.
Most supermarkets aren’t reliably good for fresh vegetables and fruit, so try and shop at the farmer’s market for your Christmas dinner if you can. Good farmers take an immense sense of pride in the food that they grow, and you know that their products are going to be fresh. You also know that they are going to taste good because they only ever grow what is in season.
And if you can’t get to a market or specialist supplier, then rest assured; many have moved online recently, in order to adapt to the changing demands of consumer behaviour in the global pandemic. In fact, you can now source meat, fruit and vegetables that used to only be available to exclusive restaurants, all from the comfort of home.
For fresh produce supply boxes, check out Borough Market’s Turnips, Abel & Cole, Natoora, and Riverford, in particular.
For restaurant quality meat for your Christmas dinner, Turner & George, the Ginger Pig, HG Walter, Hill & Szrok and Philip Warren butchers are all fantastic.
For more on the best festive ingredients, this Christmas food guide is just what you need.
ROASTING THE BIRD RIGHT
Whilst we realise it has become a little clichéd to criticise the ubiquity of turkey, we do tend to agree with its many naysayers; turkey can be dry, it leads to too many leftovers, and it just isn’t as satisfying as a gloriously roasted, golden chicken, or even a deliciously gamey goose.
Regardless of which bird will be coming to roost on your Christmas dinner table, there are a few simple rules to follow to ensure it turns out just right. Check out these 7 tips for the IDEAL roast chicken (same rules apply for other birds) for those.
Let’s face it; no one is looking at the sprouts lustily, however nicely you’ve boiled them. Very few around the table have had saucy dreams about lathering themselves in bread or cranberry sauce in the lead up to the big day. Not many have declared the roast parsnips to be the highlight of their Christmas dinner spread.
But when it comes to gravy; people do care. We’d go as far as to say it’s a make-or-break situation, with the finest versions of this beloved sauce tying together the whole plate, no, the whole table.
We’ve got you covered here; check out these tips and give the gift of great gravy this Christmas.
Wash the starch off post peel. Take the boil to the very edge. Let them steam dry while heating up a generous amount of duck or goose fat and roast. Always allow for more time than you’d bargained for, as they always take longer than expected. Season well at every stage. Done.
THE FREEZER IS YOUR FRIEND
For many, Christmas is nothing without all the trimmings. By this, we mean the sides and sauces, a lot of which you can make ahead of time to save you the stress of Christmas morning. Doing so will allow more time to enjoy some festive fizz, of course.
Prepare your cranberry and bread sauce a month in advance if you have to. It’s a good idea, too, to make a gravy master stock with plenty of flavour in the weeks leading up to Christmas Day, that you can whip out on the day. Pigs in blankets, stuffing, and parsnip puree can be made in advance and frozen, too. If you’re looking for easy ways to pimp up your vegetables quickly, consider a bacon butter made ahead of the day.
Christmas dinner should be the most inclusive, welcoming feast of the year, and all this talk of chicken fat, roasting juices, tender meat, duck fat and the rest feels a little perverse when there are vegans sitting around the dinner table, too. But as if by magic, we’ve got all the plant based diners covered too; check out these 6 ideas for vegan twists for Christmas dinner staples.
CLEAN AS YOU GO
No one wants to enjoy their Christmas dinner with the impending threat of a mountain of washing up looming over them. Rather than letting all the dirty pans build up into a chaotic, potentially contaminating mess, it’s essential that you clean as you go. Not only will this help everyone enjoy a more relaxed meal, but it will also help you, the Masterchef, put the finishing touches to your Christmas dinner in a clean and tidy kitchen.
Now, can we expect an invite to your place this Christmas?
Switching to an electric vehicle isn’t simply a move to follow the latest fashion, however; doing so comes with several benefits. Many governments around the world have already enacted laws to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles, so for many, it’s a smart time to start considering making the switch.
But before you do so, there are a few things you need to think about to gauge if an electric car would be right for you. Here are 7 things to think about before switching to an electric car.
HOW WILL YOU USE THE CAR?
Conventional vehicles have one major advantage over electric cars: range. The range of an electric car is dictated by the battery in the car as well as the availability of charging stations along the routes you would like to travel. This means that you have to plan your route, taking charging stations and your battery into consideration. With a conventional vehicle, you only need to think about petrol stations, which is not a huge concern because there are thousands of petrol stations for each available charging station.
If you will be using your car for short runs or to commute to and from work, an electric vehicle with about 100 miles of range should serve you well. If you want to travel some distance during the weekends, consider vehicles that have about 150-200 miles of range. If you plan on going on long trips, choosing one with over 200 miles of range would be ideal.
The good news is that there are more electric vehicles with over 200 miles of range and more charging stations than there were a few years ago so “range anxiety” should not be such a big concern. Also, remember that an electric car’s range is affected by the speeds you drive at, if you brake a lot or not and the temperature outside; as such, there are ways to take care of the battery behaviourally.
Although the number of charging stations is increasing, many people find it easier and cheaper to charge at home. At home, you can get Level 1 charging (110- volts) or Level 2 charging (240 volts) outlets installed. Most people choose to install their chargers indoors so they can charge their cars overnight easily. If you decide to install one outdoors, you will need an electrician to ensure it is weatherproof and that it adheres to the laws and regulations set in your area.
If you do not have a charger at home, you can charge your vehicle to a usable level (an additional 20-25%) while eating lunch, shopping or going for a coffee – if it can be charged at 240V, that is. This is because many establishments are now installing electric vehicle chargers to lure electric vehicle owners inside. Many are also installing Level 3 (DC fast charging) chargers that can charge from 0 to about 80% in 30-60 minutes depending on the model.
TO BUY OR TO LEASE?
While the sales of electric vehicles have been increasing over the past few years, reports indicate that close to 80% of all electric vehicles are leased. This is a huge number compared to the 30% of all new vehicles of all types (fuel and electric) being leased. Electric car leasing comes with several advantages for the buyer including lower down payments and the availability of monthly premiums rather than paying through conventional financing. This makes a cheap electric car lease an attractive option for those who cannot buy a vehicle outright.
To attract people who are interested in electric vehicles, many automakers often offer electric car lease deals through other businesses. These EV lease deals can lower the cost of leasing the electric vehicle and popularise the brands behind the promotions as well as electric vehicles in general.
Leasing an electric vehicle also means that you are always driving a car with the latest technology as you will be able to switch cars and get a new or barely used one every 2-4 years depending on your lease agreement.
Understandably, many people have concerns about electric vehicles, with concerns arising about cost, charging and safety. Those interested in leasing or buying an electric vehicle can find all the information they need at ElectriX, a website dedicated to helping you switch to an electric car. They have detailed guides on anything you would like to know about electric cars, including EV lease deals, the types of chargers to use, where you can take your EV on a long trip, and more. Do check it out.
Leasing an electric car will also allow you to see if it will be right for you and your needs and will give you first-hand experience on how it would be to own and drive one daily.
INCENTIVES
Because governments want to make the switch to electric vehicles as fast and smooth as possible, they are offering various incentives for those who make the switch. These incentives help subsidise the cost of the electric vehicle. In the UK, for example, car owners can benefit from plug-in grants, purchase grants, lower ownership tax and lower company car tax, all of which can reduce the cost of buying or owning a personal or business electric vehicle significantly.
MAINTENANCE AND BATTERY LIFE
Another consideration when switching to an electric car is the battery. While electric vehicles generally require a lot less maintenance than their petrol and diesel counterparts due to the fewer moving parts, one thing that requires regular checks is the battery.
Battery technology has come a long way in the past few years, with manufacturers saying that their vehicles’ batteries should be good for about 100,000 miles. Do note that even with the improvements made in this area, electric vehicle batteries still degrade and thus hold less charge over time.
You can expect to replace the electric vehicle battery after 8 years, although some manufacturers in China claim to have new battery technology that will take that to 15 years. Because we are so far yet to see any early EV models requiring battery swaps due to degradation, we can assume that the batteries will last as long as the vehicle does.
INSURANCE
Generally speaking, EV insurance tends to be more expensive than that of petrol and diesel vehicles. The main reason for this is because these vehicles are usually more expensive to repair, mainly due to the expensive battery packs. These costs are passed down to the vehicle owner.
ELECTRIC BILL
Switching to an electric vehicle that is charged at home means you move the cost of charging into your electric bill. That said, even with this increase, you shouldn’t be too concerned; electric vehicles cost around £9.00 for a full charge depending on where you live and when you charge it.
Most people drive about 16 miles per day on average, meaning that the cost of charging the electric vehicle, depending on a few factors like how you drive, will come to around £20.00 per week, which is cheaper per mile than a diesel or petrol vehicle.
THE BOTTOM LINE
There is a lot of discussion surrounding electric vehicles, considering the environmental benefits they have, and petrol and diesel vehicles are being pushed out. An electric vehicle is a great option, but there are some things you will need to consider before you make the switch.
