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KIDS GOODIE BAGS: IDEAS TO AVOID THE PLASTIC TAT

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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KIDS GOODIE BAGS: IDEAS TO AVOID THE PLASTIC TAT

Ideal for making your child’s birthday party a plastic-free one

A divisive subject on parenting forums if ever there was one – to party bag, or not party bag, that is the question…  

Party bags (‘goodie’ bags here in the UK) are often real bones of contention, causing debates about necessity and showiness, and accusations of ungrateful children (and parents!). As such, knowing what to put in your children’s birthday party goodie bag can be a little stressful to say the least. 

You likely have fond childhood memories of goodie bags, a wonderful way of thanking the children for coming, showing them gratitude for bringing a gift, and helping them not feel too jealous of the birthday boy or girl’s stash of presents, too!

Back in our day, goodie bags were mainly composed of plastic tat that ended up in the bin. However, times are changing. There are even companies dedicated to making eco-friendly party bags, and we’re very much here for this concerted effort to reduce waste.

If you’re planning a birthday party for your child and are looking to avoid the plastic tat, then here are some ideas for eco friendly goodie bags, IDEAL for making your child’s birthday party a plastic free one.

A CAKE POP

Let’s get realistic, straight from the off; at any children’s birthday party, the chances are high that the kids will be too excited to eat, and so eager to play that they won’t be able to stay in one place long enough to enjoy the birthday cake you’ve lovingly made. While, of course, it’s often tradition to pop a slice of cake in the goodie bag for the kids to enjoy later, those slices of cake often get all mushed up, turning into a crumbly, sticky mess. 

Instead, consider making cake pops. Here, a cake is formed into a convenient, easy to carry lollipop, packaged in chocolate and wrapped around the end of a stick. What fun! 

All you need is cake mix (if you’re not much of a baker, premade is absolutely fine), melted chocolate or icing and some sprinkles, plus a silicone cake pop mould and sticks. You could even tie the cake pops in with your colour scheme, opting for icing in matching shades.

And the best part? Aside from being a far less messy option than a slice of cake, these cake pops are a wonderful way to use up leftover cake and crumbs, which would otherwise be destined for the bin. 

A LITTLE CANDY 

Yes, it’s arguable that your little guests probably don’t really need another sugary souvenir after all that party food. However, kids love sweets and sometimes you’ve just got to please the crowd. 

Candy is always great to have, especially at birthdays! Consider providing personalized sweet jars of different sweets so the kids can curate their own candy gift bag, getting creative, imaginative and probably a little over-excited we’d wager… Talk about being like a kid in a sweet shop!

Buying candy in bulk is a good idea here to cut down on single plastic wrappers, and the jars eliminate the need for plastic when the kids carry their sweets home, too.

Alternatively, you could buy a Candy Obsession pick and mix kit, which you can personalise for each child. Make sure to have a variety of candy available so that no one goes home disappointed.

SOME SEEDS

An eco-friendly and educational present for little guests, seeds can be included in every child’s goodie bag as a lovely way to keep the party going for as long as possible after it’s finished! Whether it’s vegetable or fruit seeds, or wildflowers that bring the birds and bees to your garden, kids will just love nurturing their little plant as the seasons change. 

Not only will they learn to respect the environment and nature, as well as the importance of consistency and routine, but the kids will be reminded of your birthday party each day when they water and check on their plants! 

Read: 10 ways to make your garden more wildlife friendly

A COLOURING BOOK

For a gift that will keep the kids busy for days, why not include a colouring book in your children’s birthday party goodie bags? But not just any colouring bag…now, you can find children’s colouring books that are not only made from recycled paper, but they also come with crayons and pencils that are also made from recycled materials (often waste paper or old newspapers rather than the standard virgin wood).

When combined with images of wildlife, landscapes and scenes of the natural world, this makes for a wonderfully inspiring keepsake.

ORIGAMI KIT

An eco-friendly and biodegradable party bag filler if ever there was one! Kids love origami and there’s real magic in the idea of turning a flat piece of (recycled) paper into a 3D creature; what better gift, then, to add to your eco-friendly goodie bag than an origami kit? 

According to Psychology Today, “Origami has been studied as a tool for children to develop spatial and perception skills, learn mathematics, refine dexterity and hand-eye coordination, as well as improve concentration. Origami has been shown to improve spatial visualization and mathematics skills in middle school students.’’ 

Available from an origami website or specialist origami paper retailer, as a goodie bag gift, origami is a no brainer. Or rather, it’s rather a lot of brainer.

DON’T GIVE A PARTY BAG AT ALL

If you really want to be eco-friendly (but a little bit of a party pooper, let’s be honest), then consider not giving a goodie bag at all. That said, for the little ones, it’s pretty exciting having something to look forward to when the party fun wraps up…you decide.

THE BOTTOM LINE

As Sandra Adar, director of eco-friendly party supplies company Little Cherry, told the Evening Standard  “One really lovely item in a party bag is far better than several cheap throwaway ones’’, and we think that’s a message and ethos worth following up on. 

Whilst loads of little goodies might seem more generous and fun, they more than often end up as a contributor to landfill. Instead, something homemade, recycled or edible is a far more eco-conscious choice. The little ones will thank you when they’re older for caring about their future world!

4 GREAT REASONS TO SHOP ECO-FRIENDLY THIS CHRISTMAS

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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4 GREAT REASONS TO SHOP ECO-FRIENDLY THIS CHRISTMAS

As you are bombarded with Black Friday deals and sales galore, have you thought about how your purchases will impact the environment?

As DEFRA report that 350’000 tonnes of clothes go into landfill each year and electronics are the fastest growing waste stream in the UK, might it be sensible as Christmas rolls into view to consider your purchasing habits to avoid adding to this number?

If you’ve been thinking about how you can shop in an eco-friendly way this holiday season, you aren’t alone. You can do many things to lower your carbon footprint, and you can make purchases that do less harm overall to the environment. Today we share our top four reasons to shop eco-friendly this Christmas. 

DO YOU REALLY NEED THAT THING?

We all love saving a few pounds. In fact, it’s something of a national pastime. But the first step to being an eco-conscious consumer is to slow down and question whether. you really need the item you’re considering buying. Or, in the case of Christmas, does your friend or family member.

Instead, of buying something mass-produced, consider a handmade, bespoke purchase…

BUY HANDMADE

The actual physical manufacture of goods places a hefty toll on the environment. Not to mention the distribution process and the packaging waste — and the potential use of exploitative labour to produce the goods.

Instead, have you considered buying all handmade items (or better still, handmaking them yourself!) as gifts this year? We know it’s super easy to rock up to High Street and buy whatever the newest hottest item is or grab something cute and plastic, but the carbon footprint of these items is high. Buying handmade presents is cool, but you could even make something yourself.

Handmade Gift Ideas:

  • Visit a local holiday market to find handmade jewellery and accessories for your female recipients. They would love something completely original and unique.
  • Consider a handmade wooden nutcracker, Christmas star for the tree or other Christmas decoration from Erzgebirge, where they make every single piece by hand in small workshops.
  • Take a look on Etsy to find an artisan in the UK (or near you) to buy from. They ship to you directly, so it cuts down on some transportation waste. But be careful as not everything on Etsy is handmade.

SUPPORT LOCAL PRODUCERS

Local businesses and producers need our help right now. When you buy from a local producer, your waste consumption plummets, and you’ll be supporting a small business, too. Imagine how many tonnes of carbon are saved when something doesn’t your item doesn’t have to fly or take a trip to many delivery points! 

Do you have wineries in your region? A nice bottle of wine is one of the most appealing gifts. Or maybe you have a local bakery that you love? Everyone will appreciate an edible gift, so perhaps you gift a holiday pie or get a voucher to a bakery that is local to the recipient. Your gift doesn’t have to be a thing at all. You could gift an experience like a cooking class, walking tour or movie night…reducing waste even further. Result!

Read: 6 DIY eco-friendly gift packaging ideas.

REDUCE WASTE

Being an eco-conscious consumer means you greatly reduce the waste produced by your purchases. We never see the real impact since someone comes and takes our trash and recycling away to some mysterious place. But the Earth doesn’t have unlimited space for all our trash. If you can wrap your head around the waste produced during the entire process from conception to delivery, you can see what an impact every purchase makes.

If you’ve been waiting for this magical weekend to make all your gift purchases, stop and think about how your shopping will affect the planet and the people on it. Ultimately, it’s the thought that counts, but it doesn’t hurt to change to eco-friendly shopping this holiday season to reduce your impact on the environment.

6 TOP TIPS FOR THE BEST CABIN HOLIDAY IN WALES THIS WINTER

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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6 TOP TIPS FOR THE BEST CABIN HOLIDAY IN WALES THIS WINTER

Booking.com’s annual prediction for the ‘top trending destinations’ of the following year were recently released, and amongst the more glamorous Brazilian mountain resorts, beachside retreats on the French Riviera and Malaysian foodie meccas, came a more inconspicuous locale; Llandudno in Wales. 

Indeed, the country is starting to gain something of a reputation as a hidden gem of a destination, with beautiful beaches, rural serenity, incredible food, and history and heritage by the bucketload. All that said, Wales does also have the reputation of being a little, well, grey and gloomy. Indeed, the capital city Cardiff consistently ranks as Europe’s wettest city, and is amongst the 15 wettest in the world.

If you’re to holiday in the Land of Castles, as Wales is known, then you’re going to have to go hard on the hygge; ensuring your trip celebrates cosiness and comfortable conviviality. What better way to do that than in a rural cabin? Here are 6 top tips for having the best cabin holiday in Wales this winter.

WHERE TO STAY

You’re looking for rural, right? Well, Wales boasts vast stretches of countryside both mystical and magnificent, so you won’t be hard pressed to find somewhere that suits your needs.

Snowdonia National Park is the obvious choice for many; it’s world famous for its hiking opportunities, jaw dropping vistas, lakes and mountains, and should be the first port of call for active visitors to Wales. If you’re looking to narrow it down further, then the Glyders offers arguably Wales’ finest one day hike.

We say hike, but part of this ascent of Wales’ fifth tallest point is more of a scramble. That’s fine by us, we love to get stuck in. It’s a near 1’200 metre climb of three peaks, Tryfan, Glyder Fach and Glyder Fawr, but you’ll be rewarded with views which verge on the brutal, but are certainly brilliant too. 

Alternatively, if beaches are more your thing, then Wales boasts 157 miles of coastline to choose from. We’re in the business of narrowing things down, though, so narrow down we will; we’d suggest you head to Pembrokeshire in the south (just under two hours from the capital) for a selection of the finest stretches of sand and surf.

Both Broad Haven and Barafundle beach have been bestowed with the Blue Flag award which celebrates water quality and environmental protection of beauty spots worldwide. What’s more, in 2017 the latter was named as one of the world’s best beaches by Passport Magazine. You’ll never want to leave.

FIND ONE WITH A HOT TUB 

If swimming in the winter Welsh waves sounds a little too bracing for you, but you still want to enjoy something similar, then consider renting a log cabin with a hot tub in Wales during the colder months. 

You’ll find a wide range available, from rustic and rural to opulent and urban, with Pembrokeshire, Powys, Gwynedd (the county that Snowdonia calls home) and the Isle of Anglesey particularly popular spots for this type of lovely laid back holiday. 

Many of these lodges boast cooking facilities, both outdoors and in, meaning you can make use of Wales’ incredible local produce, and cook yourself and the family a feast…

MAKE USE OF WALES’ PREMIUM LOCAL PRODUCE

Welsh food has long been revered in the UK, but in recent years, it’s begun to develop a name globally. And with good reason; it’s incredible! Suddenly, across Britain and beyond into the continent, Welsh rarebit, faggots, laverbread and even Glamorgan sausages (a delicious vegetarian mix of Caerphilly cheese, leeks and breadcrumbs) are cropping up on fine dining menus, and we’re very much here for it.

But it’s the ingredients that are truly worth celebrating; Conwy mussels, heirloom leeks, sewin and samphire, and, of course, salt marsh lamb are all as good as you’ll find anywhere on the planet, and, as such, represent the perfect excuse to whip up a delicious feast in your log cabin. Hey, you could even make use of your barbeque…

Read: How to have the IDEAL staycation and get the most from your self-catering holiday

COOK OUTSIDE

Rural log cabins are all about celebrating being at one with nature, and the majority come with well appointed outdoor cooking facilities. Hey, we know what you’re thinking; the article’s title said ‘winter’. 

But barbeques aren’t just for summer! A winter barbecue can be a wonderful thing, particularly when lit safe in the knowledge that you can retire promptly to your cabin should the skies open up. Which, let’s face it, is pretty common in Wales.

It might be wise to second guess the inevitable and bring a couple of your own kitchen items with you. In our experience, though generally pretty well equipped for the budding homecook, holiday rental homes don’t always have the sharpest knives, so make the first move and bring either your favourite kitchen knife or a knife sharpener with you.

He who dares wins, and all that. It might also be wise to bring a cafetiere or teapot (depending on your drink of choice, of course) as holiday homes sometimes boast only a Nespresso machine in their armoury. 

BRING SOME HOME COMFORTS

Yep, it’s winter. It’s Wales. We realise we’ve said this already, but rain or even snow is pretty much inevitable. As such, you’ll need things to keep you occupied during the downpours. 

Not to worry; that’s part of the pleasure of staying in a remote, rural log cabin; cosying up while it storms outside can feel kinda romantic, don’t you think? 

Don’t forget to pack your car with some essentials to keep everyone busy and entertained: some board games, a Bluetooth speaker, even a Google Chromecast or another streaming device. Otherwise, you’re going to be left talking about the weather, much like we have been for the majority of this piece…

WRAP UP WARM

Average winter temperatures in Wales can comfortably drop to freezing without fair warning, with Snowdonia hovering around the 0°C for much of January and February. Do make sure you wrap up warm for your trip; however cosy your log cabin may be, it’s going to be super chilly once you step outside. Speaking of wrapping up, we’re done…bon voyage! Or, as they say in Wales, Iwrnai Dda!

THE RISING COST OF LIVING: BEST BUDGET PRACTICE FOR WINTER 2021

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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THE RISING COST OF LIVING: BEST BUDGET PRACTICE FOR WINTER 2021

It’s easy to look at the news in the UK right now and worry about what this means for your finances. Inflation, energy rises, fuel prices and mismanaged higher taxes are all causing a great deal of concern about the rising cost of living in the country.

So, what can you do moving forward to manage this difficult period and protect your finances? If you’re worried about the rising cost of living in the UK and are looking to make some changes to your spending habits, then here are some tips on best budget practice for Winter 2021.

BEST BUDGET PRACTICE

First things first, you should consider creating a detailed, meticulous household budget. Creating a budget will help you to feel in control of your finances and go some way to reducing stress during this uncertain time. 

It will also help you to identify every incoming and outgoing, which can then be analysed to see if you can make smart savings, savvy replacements, or cut the expense out entirely (more of that in a moment).

Making a budget can be as simple as gathering all of your bank statements and creating a two-column excel spreadsheet (incomings and outgoings), or something more extensive; check out Which Money’s guide to the best personal finance software here for a rundown of platforms that might suit you.

COST CUTTING

Within that budget appraisal that you’ve just conducted so thoroughly, you may have identified areas of household spending that feel excessive, frivolous or that could potentially be removed entirely.

Go through each of your regular expenses to see if you could be making savings; you’ll be surprised by how many might be lurking in the lower reaches of your bank statements. Even a small change could make a big difference in the long run, so do not skip over any expense. A few ideas for ways to cut costs include:

  • Shopping at cheaper supermarkets
  • Buying non-brand products
  • Cancelling non-essential subscriptions and memberships
  • Driving less
  • Hosting (or better still, attending!) dinner parties instead of going out to eat
  • Switching insurance providers, phone networks, bank accounts

On a more micro level, cutting a single expense each week can help you save money in the long run. One week, it could be your Wednesday espresso in the local cafe, the next, your Friday night takeaway or even that second bottle of wine you buy to finish off your Sunday roast…it can all make one massive difference when considered cumulatively.

HOLD OFF ON BIG PURCHASES

If you are planning any big-ticket purchases, you may want to put these on the back burner for a while if possible, at least until the much trailed ‘bleak winter’ is dispensed with. It’s not a good idea to eat into savings or take on debt when the cost of living is rising, so holding off on large purchases and building your savings is the smart move here.

BOOST YOUR SAVINGS TO MITIGATE THE COST OF EMERGENCIES

Following this, you should look to boost your savings while the cost of living is rising. Building an emergency fund is essential at times like these, so that an unexpected cost like needing new tyres for your car or investing in a new boiler won’t throw you off course financially and land you in debt. 

You should have an emergency fund somewhere that is easy to access, and then look to grow savings through investments (such as an S&S ISA), premium bonds or high-interest accounts. Interest rates are currently low, but if you are willing to lock your money away for a year or two then you could find a good rate.

LOWER ENERGY USAGE

With energy bills skyrocketing, now is also a good time to reduce your usage (which will also help to reduce your environmental impact). Using a smart thermostat, lowering the temperature, washing clothes on cold and taking shorter showers are a few ways to reduce your energy bills each month. 

SET MINI TARGETS

Some financial goals will take longer to achieve than others; that’s the nature of life and the oppressive economic system we live under. If you’re saving up to purchase a property or host a wedding, for example, it might take years before you reach your ultimate objective. It’s natural for your motivation to wane over time – and for your spending to oscillate between thrifty and frivolous in between – but setting mini targets will help you to keep on track. 

Every time you hit a new target, give yourself a small reward; in doing so, you’ll have a regular incentive to work towards it. You don’t need to blow your budget in order to do this but be sure to recognise the hard work you’re putting in and reward yourself accordingly. 

Many people swear by a simplified, monthly 10% savings rate as a general ballpark figure to aim for. You can set up a monthly direct debit from your primary bank account into a savings app, or take advantage of one of the many savings apps currently out there which can automate this process further for you.

Hopefully, this post will give you a few ideas and alleviate some of the stress that you might be feeling. It is certainly a worrying time for households, but there are always steps that you can take to give yourself some breathing room and protect your finances against the rising cost of living.

*Anything written by IDEAL Magazine is not intended to constitute financial advice. Always consult with an independent financial advisor or expert before making an investment or any personal finance decisions.*

6 IDEAL Tips On How To Make Gravy

Joseph Gann
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6 IDEAL Tips On How To Make Gravy

Stop. Put those gravel granules down and put your hands in the air! We need to talk about making proper gravy. No bisto, no pucks of gelatinous stock from the cornershop; just a little extra effort for a lot more flavour. Yep,in our opinion, a beautifully imagined meat jus is the single thing that will elevate a good roast dinner to a great one. With that in mind, here are 6 tips for the IDEAL gravy.

IT ALL STARTS WITH STOCK

Without wishing to state the obvious, as the basis of a sauce is liquid, that liquid needs to taste good from the get go. Supermarket stocks, stock cubes and pots; they’re all fine for those in a rush, but they tend to be very salty indeed. This leaves little room later down the line for adding more appropriate, careful seasoning. The backbone of your gravy needs to be subtle, reliable and provide foundation, so start with a homemade stock, preferably free of salt and skimmed attentively so it’s a good shade of clear. If you don’t have time to make your own stock, see if your local butchers stocks stock. 

Read: 6 Different Ways Of Cooking Vegetables Expertly

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR ROASTING TRAY

The best gravies and jus are all about layers. In top end restaurants, heaps of process and days of work have gone into them. While no one is expecting you to spend your whole weekend skimming, reducing and deglazing a sauce into a thimble sized measure of lovely liquid, a couple of small measures will add real depth to your gravy.

By browning some extra chicken wings in a hot oven for twenty minutes and adding them to your stock, you’ll add tons of umami to the end product. And after that, deglaze the tray which you roasted the wings in with a little wine, scraping all the delicious bits from the bottom of the pan. Add that to the stock too. Again, pure flavour.

Finally, when you roast your meat, place chunks of onion, carrot, celery and leek below it; it’s all flavour which will go into the gravy. Once your meat is cooked and out of the oven, strain the vegetables and meat juices (excess fat carefully tipped off) from your roasting tray into the stock. Bring it to the boil.

Read: 7 Tips For The IDEAL Roast Chicken

DEGLAZE

As we’ve mentioned, anytime you have a roasting tray or pan with delicious, caramelised loveliness adhered to the bottom, you should deglaze it with a little wine (colour appropriate to your meat). Do this to your roasting tray, on the hob, once your meat is resting somewhere peaceful.

MAKE A ROUX

Add to your roasting tray equal quantities of butter and flour to make a roux, butter first until it melts, then flour whisked in. This will thicken your sauce to the requisite, gravy-like consistency. Cook it out a little to avoid a floury taste.

REDUCE

It’s time now to add your much adulterated, flavourful, hot stock to the roasting tray. Add in stages, whisking as you go. You’re going to want to add more than you need, as reducing the liquid over high heat intensifies the flavour of the gravy. The time you have (how long your meat needs to rest, basically) should dictate how much stock you add.

AU BEURRE

Once you’ve reduced your liquid to the required volume and consistency, season thoughtfully and bring off the heat. For a final, luxurious gloss, whisk in some cold cubes of butter

SOCIAL SMOKING: HOW BAD IS IT FOR YOU, REALLY?

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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SOCIAL SMOKING: HOW BAD IS IT FOR YOU, REALLY?

While not technically ‘real smokers’, rarely carrying a lighter let alone a 20 pack, as the festive season begins, social smokers tend to light up like Christmas trees. ‘Tis the season to toke’, after all…

However, as Professor David Currow of the Cancer Institute NSW told ABC, “The idea that low-level smoking doesn’t do you any harm is a dangerous myth”. 

Simon Chapman, Emeritus Professor in the School of Public Health at the University of Sydney, tends to agree. In the same ABC report, he suggested that “Smoking a small number of cigarettes, say less than four a day or once a week does elevate your risk of health problems.’’ 

As party season approaches and the temptation to spark up heightens for some, it’s a good idea to remind yourself that such a habit can still have consequences. If you’re wondering how bad social smoking really is for you, let’s find out.

IT COULD SHORTEN YOUR LIFESPAN

You may think that the odd cigarette with a glass of mulled wine is no big deal, but you’re fooling no one but yourself. Every single cigarette you smoke harms your health and puts you at a higher risk of heart disease and cancer than those who don’t smoke.

The stats are astounding; researchers from the University of Bristol estimated that over a lifetime, each cigarette takes 11 minutes off your life. Suddenly, that ‘cheeky’ fag seems a little more consequential, right?

THE DANGER OF A DEEPER HABIT 

Most social smokers don’t think that they have an addiction. But by feeding your addiction, you run the risk of developing a deeper smoking habit.

As CNN explains, “Social smokers may not be addicted to nicotine, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re not hooked on smoking – whether it’s the ritual itself, the sensation of the smoke, or the nicotine high it provides”.  

E-cigarettes do not contain tobacco. Although they do contain nicotine, that addictive substance alone actually presents minimal risk to health, according to government evidence. It’s the thousands of other harmful chemicals present in cigarettes that lead to the vast majority of health problems; the nicotine, being addictive, keeps the user returning to those chemicals in cigarettes. 

Vaping may help break that link, with Public Health England suggesting that it is ‘’95% less harmful than smoking’’, and could help many more people quit smoking.  

Of course, doing so still comes with more risks than going cold turkey. If it’s possible for you to quit without the help of nicotine replacement, you should do so.

IT STILL COULD CAUSE CANCER 

Let’s cut to the chase; cancer is the biggest health risk associated with this habit. We don’t need to tell you that. However, what you might be surprised to learn, though, is just how many different types of cancer have been linked to tobacco. It’s certainly not just the lungs and heart that are affected by this habit. Indeed, smoking can cause a total of 16 different cancers including of the mouth, throat, nose and sinuses, cancers of the oesophagus, cancers of the bladder, kidney and ureter, cancer of the pancreas and cancer of the stomach.

As Science Focus highlights, a study into social smoking reveals that “People who smoke socially are more than twice as likely to die of lung disease and more than eight times as likely to die of lung cancer than non-smokers.” 

Moreover, the study highlights that “the risk of lung cancer death for “social smokers” – those who smoke fewer than 10 cigarettes per day – is not substantially lower than those who smoke more than 20 a day.”

When the risks are put in such terms, even the occasional cigarette feels like a dangerous habit to succumb to.

SOCIAL SMOKING AFFECTS YOUR LOOKS

If the health implications of social smoking weren’t enough to convince you, then consider the aesthetic risks. Smoking does no good for the skin and general appearance, and often even social smokers will look quite a bit older than they are.

Dr Richard Russell, Consultant Respiratory Physician and medical advisor to the British Lung Foundation, told Cosmopolitan that not only can the toxins from cigarettes in your body cause cellulite, but ‘’Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen that gets to your skin. This means that if you smoke, your skin ages more quickly and looks grey and dull”.

And no one wants that.

THE BOTTOM LINE 

There’s no level of safe smoking. Check out our article on 5 IDEAL ways to stop social smoking this winter.

KEY INGREDIENTS YOU SHOULD LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING SKINCARE PRODUCTS

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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KEY INGREDIENTS YOU SHOULD LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING SKINCARE PRODUCTS

Your skin is your largest organ, covering, on average, an area of 2 square metres and comprising 300 million cells. It’s also one of the body’s most incredible organs, essential as a first barrier of defence against microbes and the elements, but also crucial as a regulator of temperature and as the facilitator of sensations, warning you of danger and causing pleasure, equally.

As such, your skin needs care, attention and upkeep to function to its full potential, just like the rest of you. Though a skincare routine is primarily used for aesthetic purposes, it’s important you consider the ingredients and functions of various products in order to ensure you’re giving your skin the best chance to feel and look healthy.

Look out, particularly, for moisturisers, vitamins, and antioxidants. Moisturisers are essential for keeping your skin from drying out, while vitamins can help make skin look clearer and feel less dry. Antioxidants help protect your skin from free radicals which can cause premature aging of your skin. 

But as much as seeking out positive ingredients is important, it’s a good idea to scrutinise skincare products in order to give harmful ones a swerve. With that in mind, here are some key ingredients you should look for when buying skincare products.

WHAT EXACTLY IS A SKINCARE ROUTINE?

Your skincare routine determines how healthy your skin looks and feels. Skincare products usually work by cleansing, exfoliating, moisturising, protecting, or fragrancing the skin. 

To stay on top of a good skincare routine, it is important to make sure you are using the best product possible. There are five key ingredients that you should look for in skincare products. These ingredients will help ensure you have a good skincare routine and healthy, glowing skin.

  • Water is the primary ingredient in the majority of moisturisers because it helps to hydrate and soften the skin.
  • Vitamin A (retinoids) helps to reduce redness and irritation by gently exfoliating the outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, to remove excess layers.
  • Salicylic acid can help unclog pores and prevent breakouts by dissolving excess sebum on your skin surface. It is a common ingredient in anti-acne products. Overuse can result in dehydration, so it’s generally not recommended to use products containing salicylic acid everyday.
  • Niacinamide, a form of the essential nutrient vitamin B3, helps to minimise large pores and improves skin texture which helps to reduce the appearance of flakiness.
  • Phytic acid, a substance found in many plant based foods, is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental damage. 

Each of these ingredients can help improve your skincare routine and boost healthy-looking skin, but only if used properly. It is important to read the labels on any and all skincare products that you are considering buying in order to understand the correct method and frequency of application. 

SKINCARE PRODUCTS WITH MOISTURISING BENEFITS

Moisturisers are important because they help to hydrate the skin. The primary ingredient in most moisturisers is water though they also often contain other ingredients that help to protect or heal the skin, such as Vitamin A, salicylic acid, niacinamide, and phytic acid, as we mentioned earlier. These ingredients can work together to improve your skin’s appearance and make it look healthier.  

However, it is important to note that most moisturisers do not contain sufficient levels of SPF (Sun Protection Factor), which is an ingredient in many sunscreens. SPF is essential for protecting the skin from UVB rays that can cause skin damage and sunburn.

It should also be noted that some moisturising products may include a little SPF so they can legally claim to be ‘anti-ageing’, but the amount used is rarely enough to provide protection.

We’re keen on the award winning Beverly Hills MD Dermal Repair Complex, which we’ve found brings about a renewed plumpness and reduced dry patches when used as part of our skincare routine.

SKINCARE PRODUCTS WITH SUNSCREEN 

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, if you are going to be out in the sun for any period of time, you should use sunscreen. Sunscreen helps to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays, which can lead to serious long-term damage. You should also wear a hat and sunglasses when outside in direct sunlight for more than fifteen minutes, to mitigate the harmful effects of those rays.

Sunscreens are often water-resistant, which means they can be worn at the beach or by a pool without needing to reapply them every few hours. This type of product comes in different forms, including gels, lotions, powders, and sprays. You should also make sure that the sunscreen is broad spectrum with an SPF of at least 15.

Read: 5 reasons why you should be wearing SPF in the winter

SKINCARE PRODUCTS WITH EXFOLIANTS

Exfoliants like retinoids and salicylic acid help to remove dead skin cells on the surface of your face, which makes it appear smoother. Exfoliation helps to make your skincare routine more effective by removing excess sebum (skin oil) and dead skin cells. 

These ingredients can help prevent acne breakouts and blemishes while also helping you maintain a smooth complexion. Exfoliants are especially important if you have dry or sensitive skin, which is likely to accumulate dead skin cells faster than thicker types of skin, for instance, that which is oily.

Exfoliating ingredients may also contain additional benefits that will help you in your skincare routine. For example, retinoids can help to reduce signs of aging by increasing the rate at which your skin produces new cells. Salicylic acid can also helps to remove acne-causing bacteria from your pores and helps treat breakouts faster.

That said, as with any acidic ingredient used for exfoliation, overuse can lead to damage. Always consult the advice of the skincare product before using, and if you suffer from any skin sensitivity issues, it’s worth consulting a dermatologist before introducing a new product to your skincare routine, too.

We’re particularly enamoured with Biologique Recherche acclaimed Lotion P50 1970. With its combination of AHA and Vitamin B3, it helps remove excess sebum from skin cells for smooth, healthy-looking skin. It’s gentle enough for sensitive or irritated skin and can give you an even tone with few blemishes.

SKINCARE PRODUCTS WITH ANTIOXIDANTS

Antioxidants help to protect your skin from environmental damage such as pollutants, UV sun rays, and other harmful factors that can cause early signs of aging. According to the skin care professionals at dermaboss.com, they also help the skin to appear smoother and more radiant. 

Antioxidants can be found in many skincare products including moisturisers, exfoliants, and sunscreen. Some of the most common antioxidants found in skincare products include Vitamin A or retinoids, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and coenzyme Q10.

  • Retinoids help to protect your skin from environmental factors by increasing collagen production. They also work to treat acne breakouts faster by clearing out existing bacteria that contribute to acne.
  • Vitamin C helps to improve the appearance of your skin by brightening it and making it look more radiant. It can also help protect your skin from environmental damage.
  • Vitamin E is especially beneficial for helping to prevent early signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. 
  • Coenzyme Q10 is found naturally in your skin cells. It can help to reduce the appearance of lines, wrinkles, scars, and sun damage. 

Antioxidants are especially important for anyone looking to improve their skincare routine by finding a product that will protect their skin from the environment while also improving its appearance.

INGREDIENTS THAT YOU SHOULD AVOID, AND WHY

When shopping for skincare products, there are several ingredients that you need to avoid, as they may not be the best option for improving your health and appearance. 

  • Sulfates are synthetic detergents that can strip essential oils from the skin (which is a natural shield protecting the skin’s outer layer) in order to clean it properly. They are very common as a foaming agent in products. 
  • Parabens are used as a preservative and they help to prevent the growth of fungus, bacteria, and other microorganisms that can cause illness. But when applied to the skin, it can cause dermatitis, inflammation, and allergic reactions.
  • Phthalates can affect the endocrine system by disrupting hormone functions which can lead to reproductive issues and birth defects. 
  • Mineral oil is petroleum-based and should be avoided because it can block the pores, clog your skin, cause acne, and other problems. Petrolatum is a derivative of mineral oil that has been processed to make it easier to apply to the skin. It can still be a problem for those with sensitive skin types because it can cause dermatitis.

Read: 7 IDEAL skin care ingredients to look out for

THE BOTTOM LINE

A simple but effective skin care is useful in many ways; it helps to make your skincare routine more effective by removing excess sebum (skin oil) and dead skin cells, as well as preventing acne breakouts and blemishes while also helping you maintain a smooth complexion. 

Many ingredients can help with this process, such as antioxidants which help protect your skin from environmental damage such as pollutants, UV sun rays, and other harmful factors that can cause early signs of aging, or retinoids which work to treat acne breakouts faster by clearing out existing bacteria that contribute to acne.

We hope we’ve provided some helpful tips for those who want their product choices to be healthy ones, too.

HOW YOU CAN LOOK AFTER YOUR CHILDREN’S TEETH

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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HOW YOU CAN LOOK AFTER YOUR CHILDREN’S TEETH

If you’re a parent, then you’ll already know that among the most important things to do for your children’s dental health is brushing their teeth twice a day with toothpaste, and a little later by using floss. But brushing alone isn’t enough – there are some other tips on hygiene that will help ensure they have healthy teeth as they grow up. Here’s how you can look after your children’s teeth.

TO ESTABLISH GOOD HABITS, START EARLY

When babies first come into the world, their gums and teeth are soft and vulnerable to tooth decay and damage, so it’s essential that when establishing good habits, you are gentle but instructive.

Teach them how to brush properly (from a young age) by brushing your own teeth with them at night or before bedtime. You can even have them brush your teeth to show them what a good job looks like! This way, they’ll learn how it’s done and will know the right technique.

It’s generally not considered necessary to start flossing a child’s teeth until they fit closely together, between the ages of two and six. Teaching both good brushing technique and regular flossing from a young age will help your child grow up with good dental hygiene habits, and the easier it will be for them as adults!

LIMIT CERTAIN MEALS AND DRINKS

The food and drinks we ingest daily can play a huge role in our dental health, and if you want your children to have the healthiest teeth possible, it’s important to limit certain foods and drinks from their diet.

Ideally, you should limit your child’s consumption of fizzy drinks, soft drinks and juices because these things are full of acid that will erode tooth enamel over time. You’ll also want to avoid giving them food with lots of sugars as these can lead to tooth decay. A little caution should be exercised regarding starchy carbohydrates like rice, bread and pasta, too.

If you want to ensure they’re getting the best nutrition possible, stick with healthy foods that provide lots of vitamins and minerals.

VISIT THE DENTIST

As the Guardian explains, “Children need to see a dentist once they have milk teeth. The dentist will then suggest follow-ups – usually between three months and a year. If you wait until your child is about to go to school you should expect your dentist to look askance”.

As such, it’s essential that you visit the dentist with your children early on in their life, to get them in the system, as it were, and set the course in motion for regular check-ups.

SPECIAL BRUSHES

You can buy toothbrushes with soft bristles and small heads (made for children’s mouths), as well as interdental brushes like floss sticks that give your kids everything they need to stay on top of their dental hygiene. You can also invest in toothpaste with fluoride (for children over the age of two). Mouthwash to ensure they’re getting rid of all bacteria, both on their teeth and gums.

If you’re looking for dental hygiene equipment that the whole family can use, then look into electric toothbrushes with different brush heads (for adults and children). These are more powerful than manual brushes and will give everyone cleaner teeth when used right.

MAKE IT FUN

You don’t want to make your children dread going to the dentist, as that can lead to many problems later down the line. Instead, focus on making their dental hygiene fun.

For example, you can use different colours and flavours for toothpaste or mouthwash – this way, they’ll look forward to brushing their teeth every night before bedtime for the kaleidoscope of colour that awaits them in the sink. You could even turn it into a game, where they have to brush their teeth for a certain amount of time without you telling them.

You can also reward your children with healthy snacks after they’ve brushed and flossed their teeth (and used mouthwash) every day – this will ensure that good dental hygiene becomes something they want to do. Dentists do recommend you wait for half an hour after brushing your teeth to eat, however.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Parents should teach their children how to take care of their teeth right away. The sooner they learn good dental hygiene techniques, the better.

*This article is not intended to replace medical or dental advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional.*

5 REASONS WHY KAYAK FISHING IS GREAT FOR THE MIND & BODY

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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5 REASONS WHY KAYAK FISHING IS GREAT FOR THE MIND & BODY

Here at IDEAL, we’re big fans of kayak fishing, especially in the UK. Our calm, still rivers are perfect for this sometimes leisurely, sometimes challenging pursuit, and aside from the physical exercise and rewarding nature of kayak fishing, it also represents a wonderful way to see the UK from a whole new vantage point.

What’s more, this type of fishing allows you to paddle into all those nooks and crannies where fish feed, potentially increasing your chances of reeling in a catch. There are also plenty of places along our coasts for great sea kayak fishing, like Swanage Bay, which is superb for kayak angling, Derwent Water in the Lake District, fantastic for catching pike, or even the River Ouse in North Yorkshire, ideal for a spot of urban kayaking. As you can see, the possibilities are endless!

Anyway, that’s the ‘where?’ very briefly touched upon. But we’re here today to focus on the ‘why?’. Kayak fishing has multiple benefits, both physical and mental. If you are considering starting up this unique, enjoyable hobby, here are 5 reasons kayak fishing is a great for your mind and body.

IT’S A GREAT WAY TO GET OUTSIDE AND ENJOY NATURE

We’re sure we don’t need to extol the virtues of how nature is good for your mental health, but we’re going too anyway. Immersing yourself in nature can benefit your wellbeing hugely, including mood improvement, reduction of stress (more on that later) and decreased anger, helping you feel more relaxed in the process. 

The UK’s leading mental health charity, Mind, recommends reconnecting with the natural world in order to reduce stress and improve your wellbeing, and we’ll take that as the perfect excuse to get out there.

You probably know where this one is going; a wonderful way to connect with the natural world is through kayak fishing. There’s something magically meditative about being at one with nature and the water, in control of your kayak; it lets you switch off and unplug from the cruel world back on shore. 

What’s more, you get to enjoy the scenery from a whole new vantage point, bringing you closer to nature and far more in touch with the changing of the seasons and the movements of the outdoors than scrolling through your Instagram feed ever could. 

Read: 5 IDEAL destinations for a fishing holiday

KAYAK FISHING IS A GREAT WAY TO DE-STRESS

Being out on the water has a calming effect on the brain and can help lower stress levels, and doing so on a kayak can feel particularly liberating. 

Indeed, kayak fishing can be therapeutic because it’s all about slowing down and enjoying nature; relaxing with the cool salt air in your face as you paddle across the sea, river or lake. 

Moreover, research has shown that spending time on an activity that you enjoy also helps you fight stress and can even alleviate the symptoms of depression and low mood. An activity you enjoy plus being near water? That’s a double pronged stress reliever, right there!

The physical activity of kayaking itself is a great way to get your heart pumping and the blood flowing through your body, too, which can help tackle stress. If you have a lot going on in your life, it could be a good idea to go kayak fishing as a way to clear your head so that you can focus on the task at hand, which will become much easier when there’s less going on in your mind! 

Read: The IDEAL guide to planning a UK fishing holiday 

AN EXCELLENT UPPER BODY WORKOUT

One of the best reasons to go kayak fishing is that you can get a great upper body workout while out on the water. Using your paddle as leverage to propel your boat forward will work out your arms, shoulders, biceps, and triceps muscles, leaving you with a full upper body workout achieved in a far more enjoyable way than a heavy gym session. 

Kayaking also requires full use of both your legs and arms. This means that your core muscles are constantly working too. In addition, your lower back, abdomen, and leg muscles all work together to keep you balanced on the water.

So, switch from a traditional fishing boat to a kayak and you can be sure to tone those areas of your body that are hard sometimes harder to reach.

Even the preparation for kayak fishing can inadvertendly lead to a decent upper body workout. As the guys at OutdoorPlay tell us, even lifting your kayak onto the roof of your car (ideally, onto a dedicated kayak storage rack) can give your shoulders, triceps, biceps and chest a good going over. You could even do a few reps with your kayak for good measure!

CHERISH SOME ‘ME’ TIME

Hobbies like sea kayaking give us the opportunity to make time for ourselves, free from the distraction of our phones and work, which can do wonders for our mental health. 

It’s a great chance to put our focus onto something other than our jobs, chores or the mindless scrolling of social media, and really nurture that sense of self. This simple act of self-care, of treating yourself to some ‘me’ time through a new hobby, can really boost life contentment and your sense of worth and self esteem. 

YOU’RE MORE LIKELY TO EAT FISH 

You can’t get a much fresher dining experience than eating something you’ve just caught. As the Guardian writes, “As with growing and eating your own vegetables, catching and cooking a fish you have wrestled out of the depths gives a feeling of deep satisfaction”. We couldn’t have put it better ourselves. 

Moreover, if you’re fishing regularly, you’ll likely eat more fish, which is one of the best things you can do for your health. According to the NHS, a healthy diet should include at least 2 portions of fish a week, including one that’s oily. When it comes to oily fish, it’s all about mackerel here in the UK. However, mackerel don’t normally come in too close to the beach, so being able to paddle out to deeper water with your kayak means you’re more likely to catch these slick, silver beauties.

Read: 4 ideal recipes if you’re in the mood for mackerel 

AEROBIC EXERCISE

Not only great for building muscle, but kayaking is a great way to keep fit, too, because it provides an aerobic exercise that burns calories quickly and improves cardiovascular health significantly. 

Active paddling on a kayak is a cardio workout that makes your heart beat faster and increases the amount of oxygen in your blood. If you do this regularly, it can help improve your blood pressure and make you less prone to conditions such as arthritis, high cholesterol, or even some types of cancer.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Kayak fishing is a great hobby to try out as it can improve your physical and mental health. You can burn calories, do strengthening exercises, stay active all day long and enjoy the sights of nature, all at the same time…we”ll see you out on the water?

WAYS TO PREPARE YOUR TEEN FOR ADULT LIFE

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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WAYS TO PREPARE YOUR TEEN FOR ADULT LIFE

Raising a teen is no easy challenge. This is a notoriously difficult time where you are likely to see many changes in your teen and not always positive ones.

This is also a key time in their life where they will start to break away and want to develop their independence. As a parent, it can be hard to know how to help during this time as you will want to give them the skills needed, but you do not want to be overbearing. With this in mind, here are a few ways to prepare your teen for adulthood that they are sure to appreciate.

SHOW THEM BASIC DOMESTIC CHORES

It is amazing how many young people arrive at university and do not know how to cook a meal or do their own laundry. Often, these are tasks that have been done for them throughout their life, so it can be a shock to the system and often embarrassing when you do not know how to perform these tasks. This is why it is a good idea to show them how to perform basic tasks around the house so that they will be independent once they move out.

HELP THEM FIND WORK

There are many benefits to a teenager getting a job. This will develop many important adult skills that they will need, it will help them to get used to working for a living, and it will give them some money to manage and enjoy. As a teen, it can be hard to know how to go about finding a job, so you may want to help them with this (but try not to force them into a job that they do not want to do).

TEACH THEM PERSONAL FINANCE

Following on from this, you should also teach your teen about personal finance. This is not covered in school, which means that many young people have very low knowledge of how to manage their money as a young adult. A few key topics that you should cover include:

  • Budgeting
  • Savings
  • Debt
  • Mortgages
  • Inflation and interest rates
  • Investing

ENCOURAGE A SUMMER ABROAD

A language exchange programme, a summer volunteering excursion, an outward bounds adventure…encouraging your teenager to develop their independence in a supervised setting abroad can be one of the best ways you can help them prepare for adult life.

‘If you love someone, set them free’, as they say. Not only will this be a unique and exciting adventure, but schools such as these focus beyond the classroom and take a holistic approach with their development. Taking a slightly different approach to other schools, your child will gain crucial skills and prepare themselves properly for the next stage of their life. 

SHOW THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL HEALTH

It is no secret that mental health is a major and important issue these days, especially with young adults.

As a parent, you need to show your teen that looking after your mental health needs to be a priority and to show them how they can do this. Additionally, you should encourage them to speak up if they have any issues and to seek professional help if they have mental health problems that are interfering with their life.

These are a few of the best ways that you can help your teen to prepare for life as an adult and hopefully put them on the pathway to a happy, healthy, and rewarding life.

4 GIFT IDEAS FOR ELECTRIC CAR OWNERS THIS CHRISTMAS

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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4 GIFT IDEAS FOR ELECTRIC CAR OWNERS THIS CHRISTMAS

In September of this year, the number of electric cars sold in the UK in a single month were close to the sales figures for the whole of 2019. And their prevalence is only set to increase, as the public become more tuned into environmental concerns and the government introduces legislation designed to phase out the production and sale of new diesel and petrol powered vehicles by 2030.

If you know someone who has recently joined this ever increasing number of e-Drivers, here are 4 gift ideas for electric car owners this Christmas. 

ECHO AUTO 

If you want your loved one to always have company on a road trip, then consider buying them Echo Auto this Christmas. The device works by connecting to the Alexa app on your phone, and plays through the car’s speakers via an auxiliary input jack or via your smartphone’s Bluetooth connection.

Your loved one will be able to keep their hands on the wheel and use their voice to play music, check the weather, anticipate what traffic lies ahead and find out where the nearest charging station is. You can even get Alexa to tell you entertaining jokes for those more boring stretches of road, which, let’s face it, can be even more boring when driving an electric car.

This gift is particularly timely as from 2022, drivers scrolling through their phones, checking social media, playing games or changing playlists (a current loophole in the law) could face a £200 fine and six points on their licence.

Read: 5 IDEAL road safety tips for Christmas. 

A PRIVATE NUMBER PLATE

A unique registration plate will help personalise your loved one’s electric vehicle and complement its appearance, which is useful as, currently, e-Cars do tend to lack a bit of personality, aesthetically. 

You’ll be happy to learn that you don’t need to spend a fortune on personalised plates, as private number plates are more affordable than you might think – currently, they start at around £150 with the average price sitting at around £600. They’re also simple to order online. 

Consider how you want the plate to read, and bear in mind your partner’s personality to choose a registration that will reflect their name, passions, or professional image.

Read: 5 IDEAL reasons to get a personalised number plate

A TRAVEL ESPRESSO MACHINE 

All those coffees that your loved one may be buying while charging their electric car on a long distant drive could well be adding up. 

Fortunately, there are quite a few portable and lightweight handheld espresso machines out there on the market. Choose from versions with a rechargeable lithium battery or ones that plug into your car’s cigarette lighter port, and your loved one can be enjoying freshly brewed coffee on the road in no time. Most importantly, don’t forget to gift some portable coffee cups, too! 

AN ELECTRIC CAR COOLER OR REFRIGERATOR 

A portable fridge or an electric powered cooler box that links up to your car’s voltage is the ultimate form of convenience during summer convenience stops.

Top brands to consider when it comes to the best car fridges include Cooluli’s mini fridge, which has a twenty-four hour power reserve in eco-mode, and Vonshef’s electric coolbox, which comes with a 12V DC Car Adapter. Oh, and let’s not forget about the king of coolers, Igloo; a rock solid, dependable choice in its field.

DASH CAM 

Sorry to bring up such a depressing fact in a Christmas gift article, but research back in 2018 suggests electric cars are about 40% more likely to hit a pedestrian than a conventional vehicle. 

This is largely due to the fact that their engines are so quiet. Indeed, as electric vehicle sales grow, discussions are now turning to noise and safety. Since that 2018 research, a law has been passed which says all vehicles must be fitted with AVAS technology so they make noise. 

However, as RNIB’s Courtney-Bodgener told CNBC, “We’re not convinced that if … a vehicle is travelling at, say 13 miles per hour, it would generate, on its own, enough noise for it to be reliably detectable by sound.”

On the other hand, as reported by the Times “research suggests that drivers of electric cars are far less likely to be involved in an accident than those at the wheel of petrol or diesel ones”.

They go on to explain that “Experts believe that this may be because “range anxiety”, the fear that the car will run out of power, makes them drive more cautiously”. Interesting stuff, indeed…

Regardless of those ongoing discussions concerning electric cars, it’s only natural to worry about loved ones on the road, particularly when their personality is somewhat defined by their love of putting the pedal to the metal. 

To make sure they’re safe and out of trouble, consider investing in a dashcam. This device has grown significantly in popularity over the past few years as it enables drivers to have a record of what occurs while they’re driving, meaning any accidents can be settled quickly by having evidence on hand.  

Not only do dash cams help in the event of an insurance claim, but in some cases, insurance companies will actually lower the cost of your insurance should you have one installed – it’s the gift that keeps on giving, you might say. 

TOURING TURKEY: 5 TOP HEALTH & SAFETY TIPS

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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TOURING TURKEY: 5 TOP HEALTH & SAFETY TIPS

Turkey’s rich culture and history, vast and varied landscapes, delectable cuisine and the warmest of welcomes all make the country one of the most popular holiday destinations on the planet today.

Whether you’re visiting to see the mosques of Istanbul, Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys which are famous in Turkey or the ancient ruins of Ephesus or for the Turquoise Coast’s diving opportunities, Turkey has so much to see and do. That said, in 2021 and after the 20 months we’ve all been through, concerns over health and safety can sometimes impede the unbridled sense of freedom associated with a great holiday. Don’t let trepidation stand in your way; if you’re touring Turkey, here are 5 top health and safety tips.

COVID GUIDELINES & RESTRICTIONS

As with any holiday destination right now, uncertainty and the threat of last minute changes hangs over every trip. It’s sensible, then, to regularly check for travel restrictions and guidelines issued by both the UK government and the equivalent rules from the Turkish side of things.

Right now, the rules are as follows, but they could change:

  • Arrivals (aged 6 and over) must complete an online form within the last 72 hours before travel.
  • Arrivals (aged 12 and over) must have proof of one of the following; a completed full course of COVID-19 vaccinations at least 14 days prior to landing in Turkey, recent recovery from COVID-19, or a negative COVID-19 test. The Turkish authorities will accept the NHS COVID Pass as evidence.
  • When returning to the UK from Turkey and with the red list now scrapped, returning travellers will need to complete a COVID test on day 2 of being home. The rules are more strict if you’re not fully vaccinated, however. Check out a breakdown from Citizens Advice here.

DRESSING MODESTLY

In the majority of urban centres in Turkey, arguably the most liberal country in West Asia, women dress gracefully and stylishly. You’ll see women in both Burqas and Western clothing. However, you should keep in mind that social norms regarding clothing dictate that you dress modestly in some situations.

Particularly important if you find yourself in a mosque, church or other place of worship, or villages in more conservative areas of the country, be sure to cover your head, as well as your thighs, shoulders and upper arms. This will show a simple mark of respect for Turkish culture and prevent you from attracting unnecessary attention. As such, it’s sensible to carry a scarf or kimono in your backpack at all times. For men, dressing conservatively in places of worship is essential, too.

When in crowded areas of Istanbul, Ankara, and Ismir, in particular, and with any major city in the world, you should keep an eye on your belongings. Turkey is generally a totally safe country to visit, but the usual precautions should apply, especially on the subway in Istanbul or in its Grand Bazaar. Here, you should keep your valuables secure and out of the public’s sight.

What does that mean exactly? Some experts recommend keeping expensive jewellery and gadgets, such as watches, iPhones and cameras, out of sight. Instead, just wear a humble timepiece like a simple Casio, and keep your wallet in the front pocket of your trousers, ideally. With these simple precautions, you should be perfectly safe in this warm and welcoming country.

Read: 8 must-see places to visit in Turkey in 2022

©[Asia Pacific Images ] VIA CANVA.COM

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT

These precautions should apply on public transport in Turkey, too. That said, the public transport system in the major cities, especially Istanbul, is modern, inexpensive and comfortable, helping you get around Istanbul seamlessly but also connecting visitors to other fantastic places in Turkey, including the blue lagoon at Fethiye, Cappadocia’s famous rock formations, and the quaint, bohemian charm of Kas.

Istanbul is well-connected to other cities via train, bus, and metro, making getting around the major sites in the country a breeze. The best bus services are Ulusoy and Safran—both of which have Wi-Fi. Passengers on long-distance journeys are given complementary snacks and beverages on both, and these buses are available for online reservations. 

A little caution should be taken when taking taxis in Istanbul. Only take official taxis in the city; these can be recognised by their yellow colour, a ‘TAKSi’ sign on the top of the vehicle, and a built-in meter that is often integrated into the mirror of the car. 

TAP WATER

It’s generally not safe to drink the tap water in Turkey. Though it’s usually safe for cleaning, washing up, cooking and making hot drinks, most visitors prefer to drink bottled water when visiting. Although Turkish authorities do insist the tap water is safe to drink, travellers find the smell and taste a little off-putting due to its high chlorine content.

APPROACH WITH AN OPEN MIND

Turkey is overwhelmingly a safe country, with an incredibly warm welcome, hospitable people and jovial atmosphere. If you apply the same precautions and common sense as you would when visiting any new destination, you’ll have a wonderful time in the country. While you’re visiting, do make sure you check out these 9 places to explore the culture and heritage of Istanbul. You won’t regret it!

HOW TO BUILD SELF ESTEEM THAT LASTS

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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HOW TO BUILD SELF ESTEEM THAT LASTS

“Self-confidence is a bit like the running water in your house. You may not know every detail about how it works or where it comes from, but it’s painfully obvious when it’s not there” Eric Ravenscraft, The New York Times

We all have days where we want to hide inside and not face the world; that’s human nature. Equally, we all have days where we feel that little bit more confident; when putting our best foot forward doesn’t end in us tripping, where every interaction flows without feeling forced, and taking on the world feels eminently possible.

But what if we told you that those days, of high confidence and control, could be more than just sporadic? This isn’t a game of chance; here’s how to build self esteem that lasts.

IT’S ALL ABOUT POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Affirmations are a powerful way to start any day. By feeding yourself loving and kind thoughts, your mood and energy will begin to shift positively. It’s never a bad idea to tell yourself how beautiful and creative you truly are; go on, do it now.

You are beautiful and creative.

If someone gives you a compliment, you can use this as a positive affirmation and repeat it to yourself to make it stick. Or, Google “the best you are enough quotes of all time” and find one the one that speaks to you. Here are some to get you going:

‘’The day you’ll stop fitting into the world, you’ll start living.’’ The Diary for Life

“Speak victory. Declare that you are well able. Get in the habit of rewarding yourself – for small milestones. Cheer yourself on!” Germany Kent

“To be happy you don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be real and accept yourself as you are because you are already enough” The Diary for Life

LEARN TO BE ASSERTIVE

Assertiveness is based on mutual respect, and practicing it can result in better self-esteem for you and those you engage with. 

Knowing when (and how) to speak your mind is essential; as Good Therapy explains, “The problem with an inability to be assertive is that it often goes hand-in-hand with low self-esteem. When we are unable to be assertive, we may set into motion a vicious cycle where feelings of unworthiness are reinforced, leaving us even less empowered to stand up and take proper care of our needs”. 

So, how do you be assertive? The NHS suggests that “One trick is to look at other people who act assertively and copy what they do…It’s not about pretending you’re someone you’re not. It’s picking up hints and tips from people you admire and letting the real you come out”. 

Being assertive means speaking up for yourself. It also means being able to express your opinions and feelings, and, importantly, being able to say no. Which brings us to our next point. 

SAY NO MORE OFTEN

‘No’ is a small but powerful word. People with low self esteem often say yes to other people too readily, but often, this becomes a vicious circle. As Huffington Post explains, “Every time you say yes just to appease someone else, you are not taking care of yourself. In effect, it can be a form of self-abandonment”. 

Behaving passively can worsen your self-esteem and limits your ability to truly express yourself. Instead, work on being able to say no with a measured but firm conviction. 

SPEND TIME WITH POSITIVE PEOPLE

If you find certain people tend to bring you down, the solution really is this simple; spend less time with them. Find people who inspire and motivate you, and make an effort to include them more in your life.

This should apply to your online sphere, too. Give your social media accounts a once over, removing, unfollowing, blocking, unfriending and deleting any sources of negativity. Instead, fill your feed with people who encourage positivity. Who knew it could be so simple?

NURTURE YOUR OWNER MOTIVATOR

We’ve all become a little less well drilled in face-to-face communication after the 20 or so months we’ve all had. Locked down and socially distanced, many have lost their knack for breezy, easy chat with their peers.

Conversely, the best way to be more confident isn’t to work on your conversation skills with others, but rather, to hone the way we communicate with ourselves.

Indeed, our internal monologue and the way we speak to ourselves has a massive influence on our mood and outlook. But just as negative self-talk can cause problems, so positive self-talk can build your confidence in a way which has legs and longevity.

Numerous studies have even found that developing positive self-talk habits is useful for dealing with stress and anxiety. According to Very Well Mind, ‘’If your self-talk is generally negative, you may be perceiving events…as more stressful than they need to be and creating unnecessary anxiety and stress for yourself.’’

Instead, nurture that inner mentor and motivator, acknowledging when you’ve done well and forgiving yourself if you’ve messed up. Of course, this comes with practice, but a fantastic way to slowly, even neurologically, cultivate this gentle and positive mindset is by keeping a gratitude diary or jar…

START YOUR GRATITUDE JOURNEY TODAY

Negativity and pessimism seem sown into the very fabric of life in 2021. But rather than succumbing to the creeping malaise of the times, it’s essential to kick back with positivity if you’re to develop stronger self esteem. 

Amazingly, several studies have shown that a positive outlook and a daily recognition of gratitude can have a marked impact on your state of mind. As Harvard Health point out, ‘’gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships’’.

But how to go about this practice of gratitude? Well, many mindfulness experts suggest starting a gratitude journal. Each day, write down something you are grateful for, either in a book or on your phone, and over time, you may well notice a lifting of your mood and outlook. 

In a 2016 study supported by the Greater Good Science Center and the Practice of Gratitude Project, it was found that over a course of 4 weeks, ‘’participants in the gratitude condition reported significantly better mental health than those in the expressive and control conditions.’’ Fascinating stuff.

And if you’re keen to keep working on yourself, check out these 5 ways to spend better quality time with yourself.

9 IDEAL THINGS TO DO IN CARRICK-ON-SHANNON, IRELAND

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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9 IDEAL THINGS TO DO IN CARRICK-ON-SHANNON, IRELAND

Known as ‘the Marina Capital of Ireland’, Carrick-on-Shannon (in Irish, Cora Droma Ruisc, which translates as the Weir of the Marshy Ridge) lies on the shores of the River Shannon in County Leitrim.

Just two hours from Dublin and two and a half from Belfast, this little corner of Ireland is renowned for its raucous hen and stag dos, attracting brides and grooms from across the Emerald Isle.

Don’t be put off by those swarms of stumbling stags and gaggles of clucking hens. Indeed, Dean Gammell of Stagit.ie, Ireland’s leading stag company and a man who knows all about bachelor and bachelorette activities in Carrick on Shannon, told the Irish Examiner that “The day of sitting in the pub all weekend and getting plastered is definitely gone.” That’s a relief. 

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Carrick-on-Shannon, then look no further than this; our guide to the 9 IDEAL things to do in Carrick-On-Shannon, Ireland. And don’t worry, we’ll still go to the pub…

CATCH & EXHIBITION & HAVE ELEVENSES AT THE DOCK

A former courthouse, The Dock is the town’s beautifully renovated multidisciplinary arts centre. Located on the banks of the majestic river and funded by Leitrim County Council and the Arts Council, the venue hosts a programme of contemporary art exhibitions and theatre performances. Regular classes and creative workshops are also held at The Dock, making it ideal for those looking for an activity-led holiday that’s a little more lowkey than the usual paintball and piss-up routine.

The Dock is also home to the Jury Room Cafe which is open from 10.30am to 3pm daily and serves up a range of delicious cakes, scones, teas and coffees. It proclaims to be the “the ideal place for elevenses” and we couldn’t agree more. 

Read: 5 of the best places for a long weekend away in Ireland

MOON RIVER CRUISE 

This family run business has been giving luxury cruises to people just like you for over 25 years. Their fully heated cruiser is the ideal place to take in the wonders hidden along the River Shannon in comfort and style. 

Indeed, cruising down the river that defines this town is one of the loveliest ways to spend an afternoon within it, taking you along the River Shannon and on towards the Boyle River and then into Lough Drumharlow, where the boat circles an island and turns back.

The Moon River Cruise also boasts live music on board (they might do a rendition of their namesake, if you ask!), table service and even a guided tour of sorts from the captain, who explains points of interest and folklore of the area. 

©[alexandrumagurean] VIA CANVA.COM

ENJOY SOME IRISH FARE

Carrick-On-Shannon boasts some excellent restaurants specialising in traditional Irish dishes.

The Redbank restaurant, a family run business with the kitchen led by award-winning head chef Michelle McGowan, is arguably the best. 

Offering seasonal menus, their food is delicious and hearty, unpretentious yet innovative. Moreover, it celebrates the town and its surrounding area’s produce, using the finest locally sourced ingredients for a fresh as you like seasonal menu. 

The menu features a West Coast seafood chowder served with a deep fried connemara dillisk, a type of seaweed sourced from Mungo Murphy’s, a leading supplier of Irish seaweed, which is revered globally for its rich, umami flavour. When paired with the seafood of the West Coast, some of the best on the planet, you’re in for a real treat.  

For starters, deep fried Leitrim Hill goats cheese makes use of another premium local product, while seared scallop served with award winning Andarl Farm Pork Belly follows a similar ethos triumphantly. They also have a brilliant cocktail menu using locally sourced ingredients.  

SOME OF THE OTHER TOP RESTAURANTS IN THE AREA…

One of the key ingredients to happy weekending is good food. Indeed, as the saying goes, ‘’much depends on dinner’’. Or, more to the point considering we’re in Carrick-On-Shannon, as the old Irish proverb goes, “Laughter is brightest where food is best.”

So, follow that laughter and you may well alight on some great food, too. Just 5 miles from Carrick-On-Shannon, in Jamestown village, is The Cottage Restaurant which is ranked 3rd out of 50 places to eat on Tripadvisor. Moreover, the Irish Times recently named it in their list of the top 100 restaurants in Ireland as one of the best destination dining venues in the country. Here’s what they had to say:

“At this charming country restaurant chef Sham Hanifa expertly and creatively combines his Malaysian and Thai cooking knowledge with Irish ingredients to turn out dishes that are exciting and hearty in equal measure. His ever-evolving seasonal menus feature ducks from Cavan, venison from Sligo, and goat and quail from Fenagh. There is great value to be had with the dinner menu here probably thanks in part to the restaurant growing some of the vegetables, fruit and edible flowers themselves on site.” 

Another top restaurant is Divinos, which serves up the finest Italian food in the town and constantly tops lists of the best restaurants here. 

Finally, it’s essential that you head to the Oarsman, a very popular spot with locals and a marvellous place to have dinner, too. It’s a traditional family-run pub set close to the river that uses local produce to create handsome and hearty dishes. Be aware that the upstairs restaurant is only open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, but it’s well worth checking out.

Read: 5 IDEAL foodie things to do in Dublin

ANGLE THE DAY AWAY

Carrick-On-Shannon is an angler’s paradise (been spending most our lives…) and is ideal for travellers both who love a bit of fishing or are first timers looking to dip their toes – or should that be ‘rods’? – in the water. 

Within just 10km radius of the town there are no fewer than 41 lakes, but if you’re looking for some focus, visit the Aisleigh Guesthouse, who provide a wide range of services for anglers. First time fisherpeople are given a guided tour of the best swims, with stocks of bream, tench, roach, pike and perch to catch.

We couldn’t imagine anything better than pitching up somewhere in the sun, cracking open a couple of cold ones and casting our rod, with the possibility of cooking your catch over fresh coals as the sun sets. In Carrick-On-Shannon, this idyllic scene is possible.

THE MARKET YARD CENTRE

The town centre is home to a number of restored 19th-century market buildings and The Carrick-On-Shannon Farmer’s Market takes place on Thursdays between 10am and 2pm. Here, an opportunity to stop and chat to all the producers and learn more about the area and its food shouldn’t be missed. Moreover, it’s a wonderful way of engaging with the wonderful community spirit of the town. 

Set in the historic market yard, you’ll find the Olive Tree Cafe. It’s the place to come if you’re in need of a quick breakfast or lunch – it’s cosy inside and has plenty of outdoor seats if the weather’s warm. Oh, and they do a jolly good pie!

TULLYBOY FARM 

If you’re travelling with little ones, then just a 15 minute drive away from Carrick-on-Shannon you’ll find Tullyboy farm – a family-run working farm. Here, you can get up close and personal with the animals, including pigs, llamas, emus and puppies, and even feed them. There are even pony and trailer-tractor rides, and the Rural Life Museum on the farm’s grounds. You might need to box off a whole afternoon for this one! 

THE CARRICK-ON-SHANNON REGATTA 

If you’re looking for a good time to visit Carrick-On-Shannon, it has to be during the town’s regatta which takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Covering 500 metres of river immediately south of the town’s famous bridge and hosted by Carrick-On-Shannon Rowing Club, the event takes over the region, with festivities and frolics long after the race is run. Or rather, rowed.

This year, the regatta was sadly cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns. Next year, it will hopefully be back, bigger and better than ever.

HAVE A PINT AT GINGS RIVERSIDE BAR 

You’re in Ireland so it would be rude not to have a pint of Guinness or two and the ideal place to enjoy this smooth and frothy beverage is at Gings Riverside Bar. 

Established all the way bank in 1880, the bar boasts one of the largest outdoor beer gardens in this part of the world. Moreover, it’s a hugely picturesque location on the banks of the River Shannon and is the best place to be when the sun’s out.

If you’re not one for Guinness, why not sample an Irish coffee? After all, in a single glass, Irish Coffee provides you with all four essential food groups: alcohol, sugar, caffeine and fat, which will set you up nicely for another day of exploring this wonderful town!

CHEAP TRAIN TICKETS: HOW TO LOWER THE COST OF YOUR RAIL FARE

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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CHEAP TRAIN TICKETS: HOW TO LOWER THE COST OF YOUR RAIL FARE

Have you just bought your train ticket for Christmas and gawked at the prices? Do you feel increasingly irate at the fact you could fly to Berlin five times over for the cost of a single to Manchester? Pining for a time when rail renationalisation was being proposed by politicians who actually cared? Well, hold on to your rather uncomfortable, beer stained seats; rail fares are only set to increase further in the coming months.

Indeed, rail passengers could see their ticket prices rise by an incredible 4.8% next year, the largest hike in a decade. That said, we should all be endeavouring to use public transport more, since train travel is better for our environment then travelling by car or plane. 

But how to level this desire to use greener methods of transport with the extortionate price of tickets? Here’s a start; if you’re looking for cheap train tickets, here’s how to lower the cost of your rail fare.

SPLIT YOUR FARE

Did you know that you could ‘split’ your fare on a train journey and save money doing so? Indeed, with splitmyfare.co.uk, you can save up to 90% when you split your train tickets.

So far, so good, but what does splitting your train ticket actually entail? Nope, this isn’t one of those situations where you wear a massive overcoat and smuggle a friend onboard underneath it. Instead, ticket splitting is the practice of buying two or more tickets for different legs of a longer single ticket journey. 

Here’s an example:

“Instead of buying a single ticket from Manchester to Edinburgh for £59.90 you can save £17 with SMF by buying split tickets from Manchester to Chorley and Chorley to Edinburgh for a total of £42.90. You stay on the same Manchester to Edinburgh service and don’t have to change train, or even seats.”

A glitch in the Matrix or a smart hack frequent travellers have discovered to lessen the blow of increasingly exorbitant train tickets? You decide.

GET A RAILCARD

There are also railcards available if you’re going to make a habit of train travel in the future.

Whilst many are age dependent (the 16-25, the Senior), if you and your partner travel together often, then a two-together railcard is a no brainer. It only costs £30 for a whole year’s worth of unlimited travel on any off-peak service – which you usually make back in one journey anyway, as the railcard entitles you to ⅓ off all of your tickets.

Over 60s can also save a third with a Seniors Railcard, which costs £30, whilst a Family & Friends Railcard will grant a further 60% off tickets, with a maximum of 4 adults and 4 children able to travel on one card. You don’t even have to be related to apply.

Yep, there’s a railcard to suit all manner of traveller types.

AVOID BUYING ON THE DAY

Buying tickets on the day of travel in the UK can be really expensive. Based on research in 2019, BBC Reality Check reported via the rail blogger Mark Smith that if you book a ticket from London to Sheffield a month in advance, it will cost you £22. However, if you buy it on the day, it will cost a whopping £79. 

As the BBC explain, this is because “British train companies maximise revenue by selling tickets more cheaply ahead of time, when trains are emptier, in order to fill seats, and for much higher prices on the day”.

Use a little foresight and you could well end up saving some serious money. Always book your train tickets in advance, because you are guaranteed a better price than purchasing tickets on the day of travel.

So, if you need to book a long train journey, try to book a few months beforehand. Thetrainline.com claims it can save you up to 43% on fares nationwide, if booked up to 12 weeks early. Or, if you’re the ‘designated booker’ for a group of 3-9 people on Virgin Trains, you could save up to 20% off selected advance fares. A heft dose of data, sure, but it’s clear that buying your tickets in advance of travel will likely save you a pretty penny.

GO OFF PEAK

The difference between peak and off peak travel pricing is out of control. What’s even more surprising is that so many aren’t aware of the savings to be made simply by travelling at certain times. Indeed, according to Trainline, by booking off-peak tickets in advance you’ll save an average of 61% on your tickets.

In general, train travel from city to city is considered ‘off peak’ between 9:30am and 4:30pm, and after 7pm, Monday to Friday. 

You can make further savings by travelling in the ‘super off peak’ time slot, which generally falls between 10am and 3pm, and after 7:15pm, Monday to Friday. Both these discounts apply for weekends, too. 

Right now, this is the most COVID-safe way to travel, too, as these are the least busy times. If you’re flexible with your schedule, this is the perfect way to save money on travel, and the good news; in the UK’s major cities, travelcards bought with off peak discounts also apply to buses, trams and other forms of public transport.

DOWNLOAD YOUR TICKET 

Most companies don’t charge delivery fees for digital tickets. However, they do charge delivery fees for any tickets sent to you in the post and may even charge a fee for tickets collected at the station, which seems weird, but little about train ticket pricing makes much sense.

You can save a little on fees by using either an eTicket or an mTicket:

  • eTickets – An eTicket is a train ticket that is emailed directly to you
  • mTickets – An mTicket is a train ticket that is held on your mobile device in a rail travel app.

Both types include a barcode that holds your ticket information, which is scanned to validate it for travel and to open those gates for you.

THE BOTTOM LINE

When you take the time to consider all of these things, it’s possible to find cheaper train tickets. It just takes a bit of patience and forward thinking on your part. 

Alternatively, you could make use of the significantly more affordable tickets on the continent, and explore Europe by train. For some inspiration, here are 5 of the best Spanish train trips. Buen viaje!

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