As 2021 draws to a close, it seems like curling up on the couch and watching a movie is the perfect way to end a chaotic year. While Christmas movies seem like the go-to option for most people during the holiday season, sometimes it should bear repeating that they’re not the only option for someone looking for a great flick. Moreover, there’s only so many times you can watch Love Actually without dying a little inside.
If you didn’t already know, Netflix is great for uncovering new movies and content when you can’t decide what you’d like to watch. You’ll be able to watch UK movies for free without having to leave your home or face the weather outside. Consider the following must-watch UK movies on Netflix if you need a break from all the festive films.
THE GUILTY(2021)
While this movie is a same-name adaptation of the Danish drama of the same name (‘Den Skyldige’ in Danish), this movie focuses on a 911 operator who finds himself in an unexpected predicament; save Emily, a kidnapped woman on the other side of his call.
Her abductor has her in a white van but forces her to end the call before information on her whereabouts is known. Suddenly, it’s a race against time to find the white van in question before Emily disappears forever. This movie is a crime thriller that’s guaranteed to capture audiences as it unfolds.
SCARFACE(1983)
While this movie may seem like a no-brainer, the remake of the 1932 film is guaranteed to impress audiences. Cuban refugee Tony Montana arrives penniless in Miami during the 1980s but begins to rise the ranks as a powerful drug lord. This classic film is an emotional take on human corruption, a misplaced sense of family duty, and the influence of moral decisions. It’s a must-see flick for anyone wanting a crime drama within an era where words didn’t matter; actions did.
Don’t let the generic title fool you; this great film on Netflix is everything it should be. Focusing on the lesser-known Battle of the Scheldt brings in three different perspectives and how the stories unravel before the battle. Considered one of the most expensive Dutch films of all time, the movie brings a fresh perspective to traditional war films. The Forgotten Battle focuses on the war at a micro level, with a highlight on civilian cost and the impact of both sides of war overall. By far, one of the most intriguing and engaging war movies in a long time.
THE TRIP (2021)
Not to be confused with the hilarious comedy of the same name, starring Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon (also available to watch on Netflix, by the way), this Norwegian Netflix original follows a far darker and more violent path. The movie starts in a similar fashion to Mr. and Mrs. Smith but quickly morphs into a darker Quentin Tarantino-esque movie as the plot unfolds. With a hybrid of gruesome violence and laugh-out-loud comedy, this film is unpredictable and wildly fun.
Rebecca Hall makes her directorial debut with this period drama based on a 1929 novel by Nella Larsen. The story follows childhood friends whose paths cross in later life. It seems they’ve taken highly different steps with one staying true to her African-American roots and the other “passing” as a white woman. Many critics pitch the film as a major awards contender, with delicate handling of a sensitive subject.
THE HARDER THEY FALL (2021)
Bringing one of the strongest casts of the year, this film is a Western revenge story with a modern feel. The film follows Nat Love after discovering his mortal enemy Rufus Buck is being released from prison. He brings his gang together in hopes of tracking Buck down and seeking vengeance for the murder of his parents years prior. This film is an action-packed adventure that follows actual historical figures as main characters.
What was once a sleepy Mexican fishing village has, in the last two decades, turned into one of the world’s hottest tourist destinations. For those who have visited Tulum, that should come as no surprise.
Tulum is home to lush jungles, azure Caribbean oceans, sandy white beaches, well preserved Mayan temples, lagoons, nightlife, an exciting culinary scene, and so much more. It’s easy to see why this small town is a must-visit on any traveller’s itinerary when visiting Mexico.
Sitting on the gorgeous Yucatan peninsula (often referred to as the Mayan Riviera) and facing out into the Caribbean sea, the easiest way to get to Tulum from the UK is to fly into Cancun International Airport. Flights take around 9 hours, direct, and a return ticket should set you back around £350. From there, the town is just a one and a half hour’s drive away.
Now that we’ve got your attention, if you’re going to enjoy every moment of your trip here, you should first check out our IDEAL travel guide to Tulum, Mexico.
TRAVEL NEED-TO-KNOW
High season in Tulum happens between November and April, when hurricane season has generally run its course and the high, humid temperatures have dipped a little. The town is at its most crowded from January to March.
Off season is from May to October, when storms are frequent, humidity high, but crowds much lower. In October, hurricanes are particularly prevalent.
Accordingly, hotel prices are significantly lower during these months but be warned; some attractions, restaurants and stores completely shut up shop for low season. For many, then, the best compromise is to visit Tulum in November or December.
Mexico was removed from the UK’s ‘red list’ on the 11th October, meaning you’ll no longer need to quarantine in a hotel when returning to the UK from Mexico.
If you are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you will have to self-isolate for 10 days at home on arrival back to the UK. You’ll also have to take a pre-departure test before returning to the UK, as well as a PCR test on days two and eight after arriving.
If you have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you won’t need to quarantine or self-isolate. You will, however, have to take a lateral flow test after arriving back in the UK.
When entering Mexico from the UK, regardless of vaccination status, you won’t need to show proof of COVID-19 status. Instead, travellers must register on the Mexican government’s official Mexico Vuela Seguro platform, as well as filling out a health questionnaire.
You don’t need a visa to visit Mexico if you’re visiting as a tourist. You will, however, have to fill in an immigration form, which you can do on arrival. Do NOT lose this form; you’ll need to present it when you leave the country. You’ll also have to pay 500 Mexican Pesos (MXN), the equivalent of around £18, for a new one.
Generally speaking, Tulum has a largely cash-based economy, so don’t forget to pack some Mexican pesos to use while you’re here. Alternatively, you can bring dollars or pounds and exchange them in the town, though rates may be less favourable.
Look at us! We got through all of the admin in one piece. Once you’ve got your travel documents set, and you know what to expect from your stay, it’s time to book your accommodation.
According to the folks behind Where to Stay in Tulum (hey, they’d know, right?), the primary decision you need to make is whether you’d rather stay in Tulum town or in one of the many resorts and boutique hotels that line Tulum’s beaches.
Go for the latter if you’re seeking something affordable within walking distance of nightlife; opt for the former should you be keen on a laid back, relaxing stay in more picturesque surrounds. The town is around a fifteen minute’s drive from the beaches (or an hour’s walk), meaning it’s hard to get the best of both worlds here.
Whether it’s luxury resorts or simple guesthouses, you’ll find it in Tulum. If you’re keen on being beach based, we particularly love La Valise, which boasts private bungalows right on the sand, an infinity pool, spa and wellness centre. In Tulum town and significantly more affordable, Hotel Blanco or La Palmita Budget Boutique Hotel both tick all the boxes of convenience and comfort. Although minimalist, they’re right in the middle of the action.
With a place as rich with sights and attractions as Tulum, this list of things to do here can go on for pages and pages.
To keep things short and simple, your cultural tour of Tulum has to start with the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza. One of the largest ancient Mayan cities, Chichen Itza simply has to be seen to be believed; hire a local tour guide to understand the incredible history of this ancient place and make a day out of exploring these cultural heritage sites to get the full experience.
The drive from Tulum to Chichen Itza should take around two hours; if you’re looking for a shorter excursion, then the Coba Archaeological Zone, including Mayan ruins nestled in thick jungle, is just 45 minutes from Tulum town by car.
The Playa Ruinas is the most iconic image of Tulum; an ancient Mayan walled city and temple that overlooks the sea. It’s a jaw dropping spectacle, but the beach itself is fairly narrow. If you’re keen to recline thoroughly on a stretch of sand, then head to nearby Playa Paraiso, often voted the best beach in all of Mexico. It’s a short walk from Playa Ruinas, and the two can easily be enjoyed together in a single afternoon.
Alternatively, you could simply enjoy the laid back pace of Tulum town; explore by bike and take in the town’s charm, which features beautiful murals and street art to appreciate. At night, go dancing and check out the local nightlife to really get a feel of the infectious energy of this small town.
No visit to Tulum is complete without taking in the beautiful wildlife that this part of Mexico has to offer. Be sure to go swimming in the cool Cenotes (underwater sinkholes) or in the Caribbean sea to appreciate Tulum’s majesty from a different vantage point.
Explore the Sian Ka’an biosphere reserve, too, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, and go snorkelling or scuba diving; Tulum’s waters are part of the second largest coral barrier reef in the world and you’ll see all manner of marine life in its crystal clear waters. Watch out for whale sharks, sea turtles and stingrays, specifically!
If you’re looking for more exciting animal encounters, go to Akumal beach and swim with some giant sea turtles, or visit the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary, just twenty minute’s drive north of Tulum town.
Tulum is a foodie’s dream, with local restaurants offering delectable and delicious food to tickle anyone’s taste buds. The natural larder of the Yucatan peninsula is regarded as some of the finest and freshest in the world; no wonder Noma, the world’s number one restaurant, hosted a seven week pop-up in Tulum in 2017.
If you’re a fan of traditional Mexican or Yucatecan food or seafood dishes, you’re going to love the food in Tulum. There are a several excellent restaurants every visitor to Tulum should try, sprinkled throughout the town and on the beaches.
Taqueria Honorio, in Tulum town, has to be our pick of the bunch. A simple taco stall slinging the most amazing Yucatán-style roast suckling pig, this is the place to experience the flavours of the Yucatan. If you’re keen for a sophisticated sitdown meal, then try out NÜ Tulum at La Valise. Here, you can enjoy a modern take on ancient Mayan recipes, all just a minute’s stroll from Tulum beach.
Or, you could just follow your nose; Tulum town is full of street stalls slinging the good stuff each and every day. No trip to Tulum is complete without sampling some local Ceviche, Cochinita Pibil, or some fish tacos. If you’re feeling under the weather, try some Sopa de Lima, a traditional lime soup with restorative properties that could lift you out of even the most heavy of hangovers.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Always make sure you check the latest COVID-19 travel restrictions, both in terms of UK rules when returning to the country, and Mexico’s current entry requirements. Buen viaje!
Happy domestic living isn’t necessarily about having the most expensive rugs, a sound system of remarkable clarity and a California king sized bed.
Sometimes, it’s as much about the smooth running of the home, and a domestic life not defined by breakdowns and repairs. In the absence of home maintenance, homeowners only make more work for themselves later down the line, which can be difficult to handle, physically, mentally and financially. As such, it’s important to always have a checklist ready for the different seasons.
When it comes to the winter, you should be preparing your home before the holiday season hits, in order to anticipate any issues before they become something only a professional can deal with. With that in mind, here’s how to prep your home for the holiday season with these 5 checks.
CHECK THE CENTRALISED HEATING SYSTEM
When it comes to funding your house’s heating (and cooling) system, it is a heavy investment, and depending on the quality, on average, a heating and cooling system can last for up to 15 years. Some systems might last two decades, depending on the level and frequency of maintenance. That said, you might want to call in a professional expert and have the filters and boiler covers checked; click here for more info.
Besides, if you are renting a house or apartment, it is recommended to check the place’s annual/ monthly maintenance agreement papers. If applicable, you may ask your landlord to check the heating system and ensure that everything is working fine and that you won’t have any problems in the winter. If a boiler needs replacing, it’s their responsibility.
PROTECT YOUR PIPES
A frozen pipe is simply not something you want to mess with; it can burst, flood your home and cause a myriad of problems in the process. Before we enter the deepest recesses of Winter, it’s sensible to check yours are clear of obstruction and damage.
Prevention is clearly preferable to cure here, and the best way to pre-empt and protect from frozen or burst pipes is to keep your house at a consistent temperature, preferably via your thermostat. Even if you’re away on a winter holiday, it’s a good idea to have your heating on a timer, at least coming on for a couple of hours each day, to keep your pipes in good nick. Insulating your pipes is also a smart move.
While the interior of your house needs upgrading, it is equally important to assess whether the outer space of your house needs to be inspected as well. Check all windows and door frames for potential cracks and crevices that enable the cold air to enter the cosy interior of your house.
Usually, the different natural elements, such as the blazing sun and the rain, snow, hail, etc., affect the wooden trip on the outside, and the best way to protect it is to have it either caulked or painted. While you are at it, don’t forget to caulk the windows as well.
If you have a backyard, go around and ensure that there are no water pools, which can transform into real problems if not eliminated. Don’t forget to clean the gutters. The autumn season brings loads of leaves that can get stuck in pipes and gutters, also on the rooftop.
Overflowing gutters can be a real nuisance as water infiltration can cause rapid home deterioration.
ENSURE YOUR HOUSE IS SAFE FROM THE RISK OF FIRE
The holiday season is a time associated with an increased risk of house fires. Indeed, official statistics show that the month of December, between 6pm and 8pm, is the peak time for house fires annually.
It’s sensible, then, to ensure your house is safe from the risk of fire during this busy period. Check out these key domestic fire safety checks for winter to help you do just that.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Each season comes with a set of challenges, and a sense of foresight is a smart move when looking forward (or perhaps dreading) the winter. With homes busier, heating more widely used, and the family cooking with more frequency, the holiday season usually places a higher burden on the home. Make sure yours is ready for it.
You can never have too many places to visit. It’s not just about the sights you see, but also the people and cultures that await. The more you travel, the more open-minded and worldly person you will become. And if you have friends who love to travel as much as you do, giving them something that will facilitate a smooth and comfortable trip is perhaps the best present of all.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for someone who’s always on the go, or just want to show your appreciation with something special, we’ve got you covered! Read this article to discover the top travel-themed items you can give to your friend who loves travelling.
TRAVEL SHOES
One of the most important things for travelling is to have a pair of comfortable shoes that will last throughout your trip. You can never go wrong with a pair of Asics sneakers, but if your friend is more into designer brands, there are a lot of great choices out there!
No matter what you choose, make sure the shoes fit properly and they’re good for walking long distances or climbing steep stairs. Also, the shoes you choose should be waterproof because who knows when a sudden rain shower will come during their trip.
PORTABLE BATTERY CHARGER
There’s nothing worse than your phone dying when you’re in the middle of a new country and you need it to take photos or access a map. To keep this from happening, get your friend a portable battery charger. These gadgets are so useful, especially if you’re going to a country with unreliable electricity. Any good portable battery charger should have enough power to fully charge your phone up to 3 times over. Just make sure that it’s compatible with your friend’s phone, otherwise, it won’t exactly be the most warmly received item.
TRAVEL JOURNAL AND PEN
It doesn’t matter if your friend loves to write or not: they will surely appreciate a nice travel journal and pen. This is one of those gifts that will remind them of all the beautiful places they went to during their trips, or it can simply be used to note down lists, phone numbers and other important bits along the way. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on this; just make sure that the journal is of good quality and the pen writes smoothly.
If you want, you can also get them a nice leather-made bookmark with their favourite travel quote on it. This kind of gift is perfect because you can personalise it. For example, you can write down your and their first travel experience, the places they visited together on a special bookmark and give it to them as a gift. You can also print their favourite destinations in a journal and give it to them. This may be a small gift, but the sentimental value is priceless!
TRAVEL CAMERA
You might think that your friend already has a camera so this isn’t such a great gift for them, but just think how excited they will be if you give them a new travel camera. One of the best gifts to give your friend who loves travelling is actually something that can help capture their favourite memories. And if you want to get your friend an even better present, consider getting them a GoPro.
These little cameras are so handy because you can wear them on your head or strap it onto items. You can also easily attach this camera to anything that you’re travelling with like a backpack or car. And the cool thing about these cameras is that they’re waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about them when it’s raining outside!
Another good gift idea for your friend who travels often is a carry-on travel backpack. One problem with backpacks is that they aren’t very easy to carry on an aeroplane. To solve that problem, the carry-on travel backpack was invented. There are great ones out there that have lots of pockets and straps to hold all their gear without them falling out of the bag. You should make sure that the fabric is lightweight and sturdy, otherwise, it will tear easily.
A WATER BOTTLE
This one is really simple, but it’s actually one of the gifts that your friend will use most often. All you have to do is give them a standard reusable water bottle. This way, they can easily fill up whenever they feel thirsty.
If you want, you can also personalize this gift by putting their name or initials on the bottle with an engraving. Not only will this remind your friend to drink water more often, but it will also impress upon them an environmentally friendly mentality, which every traveller shouldcarry with them in the modern world.
A MAP OR A GLOBE
You might think this is a cliche gift, but you would be surprised at how many people don’t own maps of their favourite countries. And if your friend likes travelling to smaller places, they might not own a map of the place at all. That’s why this is one of the best gifts for someone who loves to travel.
You can get them a classic map of the world or a globe to show them all the places they’ve been to and plan ongoing in the future. Your friend will surely be amazed when they see how much travelling they’ve done in such a short time.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If you are looking for the perfect gift to buy your friend who loves travelling, consider getting them something that will either help them capture their favourite memories or make it easier for them when they’re on the go. For example, a travel camera would be great because it’s waterproof and easy to carry around with you wherever you go.
If your friend likes to write about their adventures, then get them a nice journal where they can record all of their thoughts in one place! And if they love carrying things around with them everywhere they go, give him or her a backpack that is lightweight but sturdy enough not to tear easily. Hopefully, this article has given you some great gift ideas for your friend that loves travelling!
Engagement rings come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. From traditional diamonds to sparkling sapphires, in a variety of settings and styles, the options are limitless. Of course, the charm and elegance of traditional engagement ring styles is undeniable. However, there are some truly unusual options out there, and some historical examples that stand out from the crowd.
According to Neil Dutta of engagement ring retailer, Angelic Diamonds, unique engagement rings are a wonderful option. He says, “Our customers often come to us on the hunt for something a little different; something that is unique yet still full of romantic symbolism.”
With unusual styles on the rise, we’re diving into the dazzling world of unique engagement rings. Today, we’re taking a trip back through history to fawn over some iconic and unusual engagement rings worn by the rich and famous.
PRINCESS DIANA’S SAPPHIRE CLUSTER RING
There are few engagement rings more iconic than the sapphire and diamond cluster ring first worn by Princess Diana. Later, it would be given to Kate Middleton. The ring consists of a cluster style setting, featuring a blue Ceylon sapphire surrounded by fourteen diamonds. The large ring is certainly eye-catching, and if you’re looking for an engagement ring with a pop of colour, a sapphire and diamond cluster is a great option. This particular piece was chosen by Diana herself and then passed down to her son, Prince William.
QUEEN VICTORIA’S SERPENT WRAP
Queen Victoria is a true trendsetter when it comes to wedding traditions. Her husband, Prince Albert, gifted her with an 18-carat gold serpent wrap engagement ring adorned in rubies, diamonds, and a spectacular emerald. In ancient Rome, the serpent symbolised everlasting love, and, indeed, Albert and Victoria’s unity is an example of the perfect marriage.
During the wedding ceremony, Queen Victoria wore a white dress, a wreath, and a five-meter-long veil, which contrasted with the royal tradition. If you’re considering an alternative ring, go for one embedded with a sacred symbol and dazzling diamonds, such as the serpent.
KATY PERRY’S FLOWER POWER
Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom got engaged on the most special celebration of all – Valentine’s Day. That’s probably why her iconic engagement ring has love and sentiment written all over it. The ring features a padparadscha sapphire surrounded by diamonds to recreate the shape of a blooming flower in pinkish-orange hues. The ring perfectly matches the star’s extravagant style, and there has been speculation that it’s a replica of Princess Eugenie’s engagement ring featuring a rare sapphire. For a blossoming marriage, look for a flower-shaped ring accented with bright-coloured diamonds.
JENNIFER LOPEZ’S DAZZLING DIAMONDS
Jennifer Lopez has received an array of dazzling engagement rings worthy of fashion history. Two particular rings stand out. First is the stunning 6.10-carat radiant-cut pink diamond engagement ring presented to her by Ben Affleck in 2002. Second is the showstopping 15-carat emerald-cut diamond ring from Alex Rodriguez in 2019. The latter is believed to have cost between $1 million to $3 million. Get one of these fabulous looks by exploring geometric emerald-cut diamonds or venturing into the realms of coloured diamonds for a bold twist.
JACKIE KENNEDY ONASSIS’ ICONIC TWIST RING
Combining diamonds and gemstones is a sure way to make sure your engagement ring has an impact. In the case of the ring given to Jacqueline Lee Bouvier from former president John F. Kennedy, diamonds and emeralds were a winning combination. This ring featured a 2.84-carat emerald paired with a 2.87-carat diamond, complemented by leaf decoration and a yellow gold band.
Jackie was first gifted the ring in 1953 but there aren’t many photos showing her wearing it. In 1961 she decided to redesign it just in time for the renovation of the White House. The new design featured fancier marquise shape diamonds in place of the sleek baguettes. The new gems resemble a laurel wreath surrounding the two main stones. The other half of the band is covered in round diamonds. To replicate this stunning look, take a look at twist-style rings, and don’t be afraid to go for brightly coloured gems as well as diamonds!
Each one of these incredible engagement rings is as iconic as the last. Let this range of statement engagement rings encourage you to explore something more unusual.
Ideal for ensuring your home is safe and cosy this Christmas
As winter rolls into view and talk of a White Christmas moves from hypothetical to hopeful, you might be feeling a little trepidation about your home’s ability to cope with an increase in visitors.
Last year, our properties all enjoyed some deserved time off from the usual influx of family and friends, spillages and breakages that define the Christmas season domestically. This year, however, the festive period looks set to be bigger and better than ever, and our homes are going to need to be ready for it.
We’re here to consider the safety of your home today, and more specifically, its fire safety. Christmas is a time of untested, intoxicated cooks stepping up to the stoves for the first time all year. As such, it’s also a time associated with an increased risk of house fires. Indeed, official statistics show that the month of December, between 6pm and 8pm, is the peak time for house fires annually.
With that all in mind, to ensure your guests are safe, here are 5 key domestic fire safety checks for winter, IDEAL for ensuring your home is safe and cosy this Christmas.
TEST SMOKE DETECTORS
Fire alarms can be disturbing enough when the only issue is that you’ve burnt the mince pies again. But if a real fire starts domestically, it’s essential that residents and guests are alerted to it as soon as possible. With homes full during the festive season, this is even more pressing, as making a quick exit can be more difficult.
It’s down to you, as the homeowner and host, to check that all smoke detectors are fully functioning. Most modern fire alarms have a button that allows you to test this; simply press and hold this button until the device gives you an indication that it’s working. Should the sound emitted be weak, stuttering or worse, non-existent, then change the batteries and try again. If it’s still not working, it’s time to invest in a new alarm.
CHECK YOUR FIREPLACE
Keeping with the fire theme, here, and whilst it’s been a mild autumn, as soon as the real winter and then Christmas roll around, it’s obligatory to enjoy an open fire. Doing so brings with it a festive focal point and sense of romantic, aromatic spectacle which feels so perfectly suited to the magic of the season. But before you light it up, it’s important to check your fireplace is primed and ready to spark into life.
Firstly, undertake some external appraisals. Remove tree limbs from near or above your chimney. Check the condition of the chimney cap and remove debris or any rogue bird’s nests that have fallen into the space. Onwards, and check whether or not the roof flashing is compact against the chimney, the mortar and bricks in the chimney are fine, the chimney crown is bevelled, and you can see the flue liner above the crown. All vital stuff, indeed.
Inside, make sure that the flue damper is fine. There should be no cracked bricks or mortar in the firebox or hearth and no combustible material in the flue. If you have a gas fireplace, check the gas logs, igniter, burner holes, and glass door for latch problems or cracks.
Or, if all that technical jargon has left you a little cold, you could get a professional to do it…
GET YOUR CHIMNEY SWEPT
Hold fire before you light yours; it’s generally recommended that chimneys should only be swept in late Autumn or early Winter (as in, now).
When the nights draw in and the temperature drops in the UK, the allure of the open fire rises in tandem. A winter sweep ensures that no birds have made their homes in your chimney over spring and summer, before the first flames lick upwards. That is not the kind of roast bird that should be on the Christmas menu this year, after all.
It’s also essential for the removal of other blockages, such as cobwebs or soot build-up, which would impede the escape of fumes.
ROOF RECON
Such removal of blockages has to occur externally if you’re going to get a full appraisal.
External clutter and accumulated debris, particularly from branches and twigs, can be a fire hazard, particularly at this time of year.
As such, it’s important you check your roof before the festive season hots up to stop it really, erm, hotting up. A simple inspection is all that’s required here, making sure that there’s not only any debris, but also that there are no loose or cracked tiles, or slates on your roof, as breakages or gaps could let water in. No one wants to deal with that over the festive season.
Of course, you need to keep safe at all times during such work, so it’s important you wear protective clothes to carry out any work around the house. The experts at Snickers Workwear tell us that elbow and knee pads, a PTD belt and a holster jacket will make your life significantly easier (and safer) when carrying out home maintenance at such heights. Falls may occur, so it’s best to be protected against every eventuality.
PREPARE YOUR FRIDGE FOR INCREASED USE
The fridge is one of the, if not the, most frequently used appliances in the kitchen, and over the festive period, that fridge door is getting opened and closed by one family member or another every few minutes.
Since you’ll be cooking for guests over Christmas, it’s vital that your fridge is working properly and is sanitised, to ensure no one falls ill after eating at your home; enough to ruin anyone’s Christmas, don’t you think?
Emptying the fridge and doing a deep clean will prevent any mould or mildew build-up and allows you to throw out any uneaten food that could be taking up space. Sweeping below the fridge is important too because dust and dropped food can accumulate underneath it.
Making your fridge run better also means you need to clean the condenser coils, which are located at the bottom or back of the fridge and can be cleaned by vacuuming or hand-dusting them. When the condenser coils are clean, you can benefit from less energy use on your next utility bill.
Like most influential decisions in life, it’s important that we take a step back and consider our options before rushing into resolutions, especially when it comes to estate developments.
We’re quick to decide when we need something doing to our property, but we’re not as quick when it comes to considering the financial aspects of a new building project and preparing for any hidden costs that might arise, or any other factors that may crop up during the process.
Much like any decision in the property sector, planning permission can be expensive and doesn’t always involve straightforward expenses. It’s important, then, to weigh up your options and consider all factors before reaching a final verdict. In light of this, we’ve created a list of four key factors to consider before making an application for planning permission, so that you can make smart decisions that benefit you in the long run.
ARE YOU FINANCIALLY PREPARED FOR PLANNING PERMISSION?
Upon deciding on a property or land development, the first factors that you’ll have to consider before making an application for planning permission are financial. Firstly, you’ll have to consider fees for any services that you may require, for example if you’re not keen on handling the build yourself you’ll probably have to seek out the help of an architect.
Or, suppose that you don’t want the hassle of handling the application? You’ll have to outsource a planning consultant or a solicitor, services of which will command a fee. Perhaps this is your first time undertaking a development project, and you’re looking for some more support before filling out your application?
You’ll probably be best contacting a planning consultant, who can help to advise you further and can also assist with any worries that you think might impede your development such as telephone lines, power cables, footpaths, sewers and many more.
Once you’ve chosen architects and solicitors, the costs don’t stop there. Secondly, you’ll then have to consider application fees to your local authorities, and the cost of any surveys, assessments or reports that the board may need to support your application.
Relevant supporting documents could include, but are not limited to, ecological surveys, arboriculture surveys, tree surveys, habitat regulations assessment and many more. We recommend enlisting the help of a professional ecological consultancy such as Arbtech, who offer a range of affordable ecological surveys, designed to support you with your planning permission application. Check out their site to review their offering and find the right service for your next project.
HAVE YOU BEEN HONEST WITH YOUR NEIGHBOURS ABOUT YOUR INTENDED PLANS?
One of your first points of call when considering any sort of building work is to discuss your plans with neighbours. Building a good rapport with them is crucial for any type of planning permission, as objections and complaints to your local planning authority can hinder your planning permission’s application process. Objections from neighbours are one of the common reasons that planning permission gets denied, this could be for a multitude of reasons such as they feel that the extension may overlook their property and infringe on their privacy, they could be worried about noise complaints, or something as simple as they feel that it would cause an influx of traffic or block the roads. Although it’s possible to dispute an objection and appeal, this can often be an expensive and time consuming process, which can easily be avoided through communication.
Before making your planning application, invite your neighbours over and discuss with them in length what you hope to achieve with your property development. You could also share drawings and build-plans with them so that they get a better scope of what you have in mind.
So, long as you communicate with your neighbours every step of the way, and that you listen to their concerns or objections, you should be able to work around them. Plus, it will prevent them from approaching the local planning authority first, if they do have any doubts.
THERE ARE MANY KINDS OF PLANNING PERMISSION: HOW DO YOU KNOW WHICH ONE IS SUITABLE?
Another factor to consider when applying for planning permission is the different kinds that are available and making sure that you confirm which kind is suitable for your project. Most of them are pretty straightforward, so if you’re planning a residential extension you’ll need to apply for Householder Planning Permission or if your building is listed you’ll have to apply for Listed Building Consent.
However, if you are still confused about what kind of planning permission you’ll need, you can use this list, which outlines the different consent types and goes into detail about each one and how you can get it.
Even after you obtain planning permission, you may find that you require other permissions that you might not have considered such as party wall notices, building regulations and many more. Talk to your local authority or planning consultant about this if you’re unsure, they should be able to advise you further.
This is an important step, as any missed permissions can void your planning permission and incur legal penalties. In worst case scenarios, if you choose to ignore advice and start the build regardless, once the local authorities notice you will be issued with an enforcement notice which will instruct you either demolish or alter any work carried out.
ARE YOU PREPARED TO START THE BUILD AS SOON AS PLANNING PERMISSION IS GRANTED?
After you’ve submitted your application for planning permission, it will take anywhere between eight to thirteen weeks to be granted. Be warned though, once permission is granted, you have to start your build within three years otherwise you will have to go through the process again.
Alternatively, if you decide to sell within those three years, the planning permission remains with the property. Due to this, you can afford to increase the property’s asking price, as planning permission is attractive to potential buyers because they’re aware that they can make changes.
If you are looking for a way to make money online, starting your own digital coaching business could be the perfect opportunity. From finessing your website and establishing a social media presence, all the way to knowing your niche and nailing your marketing, if you want to start a digital coaching business, here are some useful tips.
SET UP A WEBSITE
To make money from digital coaching, clients need to be able to find out more about who they are and what services can help them achieve their goals. This makes having a website especially important. When you are setting up your website, make sure that it is clear why clients should choose to work with you instead of the other coaches out there. You need to be able to convince them that working with you will help them achieve their goals much more effectively than if they worked with anyone else.
This means having a lot of information about your coaching philosophy and how it can help them, as well as testimonials from other clients. Getting started with designing or building a website for your digital coaching business is easy since there are many tools available online that make this process extremely simple. You don’t need to be an expert coder to create the perfect site for your business. Additionally, there is System2 that can give you all of the tools necessary to build and maintain a successful online coaching business. Make sure it’s clear how clients will be able to contact you through your new site as well!
SET UP SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS
Digital coaching is all about helping people to achieve their goals and by giving them access to you 24/7, social media can play a large part in making this happen. Potential clients will expect you to be active on these platforms, so make sure that your digital coaching business has accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. This will also help you to establish a digital presence which is extremely helpful for improving SEO (in short, appearing higher up the Google rankings).
It’s also necessary to use these accounts to promote yourself and your services. This will ensure that you reach the widest possible audience which could result in a much larger number of clients than if you didn’t market yourself at all. Use hashtags such as #digital coach or #online coaching so potential clients can find you easily.
DEVELOP A PRODUCT
Digital coaching is a service, but to make the most money from this business model, it’s important to have a product that can be sold. There are different ways for you to achieve this goal and whatever way you choose will depend on your specific approach as well as what your potential clients want. You may decide that offering digital coaching services is your product, or you may choose to create a digital course that helps people learn how to become better at whatever it is that they are trying.
Once you have decided on what type of product will work best for the digital coaching business model, it’s necessary to market this new service so potential clients can find out about it. For example, if you decide to create a digital course it’s necessary to upload this product to an e-commerce site such as Shopify and then promote the service on social media. This enables clients who are interested in your coaching services or philosophy to sign up for your new course right away.
MARKET THE PRODUCT
When you have your product, the question now is how to market it. You will need a digital marketing team that can help promote and sell your products online. If budget allows for this, then hire someone who has experience in doing so as they are much more competent at their job than those with little or no knowledge about the field of digital marketing. Even if you don’t have the capital to invest in a prolonged period of supplementary education, you can take time yourself to learn from books or tutorials on YouTube to hone your skills as an expert seller.
It might be hard work but once you make a name for yourself as a great business person selling quality products, people will come looking for what services/products you offer them next time around! A good way to get some social proof is to ask your existing clients if you can interview them about their experience with the products that they bought from you. You can then post these on your blog or website as testimonials, it will inspire others to perhaps buy from you, too.
KNOW YOUR NICHE
If you want to make money in your coaching business, then you need to know who exactly will be hiring and paying you. You need to narrow down on a specific niche market before even starting. Research about this industry carefully so that the recommendations you give are based upon solid facts rather than assumptions.
Your client base should be well aware of what they expect from any kind of coaching service provider as opposed to consulting with someone who has no clue about their field or profession. This way, they trust your advice more because not only do they feel confident but also comfortable enough knowing that you have some knowledge related to the area where they work or plan on working at one point in time or another.
DON’T GIVE OUT GENERIC ADVICE
One of the biggest mistakes that beginners make is offering their clients generic and vague advice without having any specific idea about what they are talking about. It is always better to be safe than sorry! When you give out suggestions, you need to understand where your client stands in terms of his/her expertise to not give them a false sense of hope or tell them something which might sound good but isn’t going to work at all because of various reasons related both with themselves as well as outside factors such as business policies, etc.
To avoid this from happening, try working on an outline first before even starting anything. Even if there’s no particular plan yet, just start jotting down the areas where you want to focus and what kind of things would be best for your client or customer so that he/she can benefit from working with you. This way, it will not only help them get a general idea about the whole process but also how much time is needed to achieve their goals.
These were just some of the things that need to be done to start a digital coaching business. Now that you have an idea of what is involved, it’s time for you to take action and develop your website as well as create social media accounts so clients can find out about your services right away.
Phew. It’s been a long 20 months or so, characterised by lockdowns and listlessness, by bottoms parked on the sofa rather than being shaken on the dancefloor, and camper vans parked in the drive rather than rolling down the open road.
But with restrictions lifted and the recent “van life” trend sweeping the nation, one of the most popular DIY projects across the UK throughout lockdown was campervan renovations. Rather than let their campervans gather dust, many spent the past year and a half of downtime getting theirs glammed up and ready for an adventure?
And it seems like these renovation efforts might soon be bearing fruit…will 2022 be the year of the campervan or caravan holiday? We certainly think so.
If you too have a campervan renovation on your bucket list, then rest assured that there are several little tweaks and tricks you can do to ensure that you’ll be living life in the fast lane (if your maximum laden weight doesn’t exceed 7.5 tonnes, that is) when you hit the road. With that in mind, here are 5 top tips to help you get started.
SEEK INSPIRATION FROM THE CAMPERVAN COMMUNITY
The campervan community is an inclusive and welcoming one, full of folk willing to share niche knowledge and ideas, and even lend a helping hand in return for a cuppa and some campervan bantz.
So, seek inspiration from other campervan enthusiasts, and tap into the rich and diverse community at every opportunity. The UK Campsite community is a great place to start, complete with their own forum that’s active every day with caravan and campervan chatter. Alternatively, the small motorhome community has its own discussion board, too. Check it out here.
MotorhomeFun is a little more expansive, with community members from across the globe discussing campervan trips in far flung places. It’s enough to get our engine going, that’s for sure.
Finally, for £54 a year you can become a member of the Campervan and Motorhome Club, which is the UK’s largest network of its kind. By becoming one of their over 30’000 members, you gain access to exclusive campsites, pitches and knowledge, as well as their lively discussion group, that’s always active and engaging.
It’s one thing for your campervan to look the part, but it’s quite another for it to play the part, too. Before you get going with your campervan renovation project, it’s a good idea to ensure your vehicle is safe and secure, in order to protect your investment from damage or it being stolen.
First things first, then; it’s essential to reinforce or replace the van’s doors. Not only do you need a door that is safe and secure but having one that blends in naturally with the rest of the campervan’s style is ideal. Tambour doors add a modern touch for those with a more contemporary model, while with more traditional vans, it may be best to keep the original door and just update the lock using properly secured with door catches.
MOULD REMOVAL
Now, it’s time to look inwards. You’re not going to impress those new campervanning friends you’ve made if your pride’n’joy rolls into the campsite looking dirty and decrepit.
As with any vehicle previously used for outbound adventures but has since been sitting locked down in a driveway, there’s a fair likelihood that your newly purchased, second-hand campervan has been exposed to moisture or rainfall.
It’s wise, then, that you apply a mould removing agent to your campervan’s walls, crevices, nooks and crannies, even if there is none immediately visible. Campervan walls are notoriously prone to mould and rot.
Should the walls need total replacement, firstly; don’t panic. This is fairly normal for the restoration of a second-hand campervan. Wall panels or plywood are the most budget-friendly options here, but it’s wise to consult your campervanning community for the best advice on the subject.
A NEW PAINT JOB
Once the mould is cleared and the foundation is laid for your self-expression and creativity, it’s time to give your campervan a fresh lick of paint.
If you need to give the whole campervan a fresh coat of paint then the main option is to fully respray it, though there are ways to repaint your van without respraying it. This isn’t only for aesthetic purposes; it protects some elements of your campervan (such as the wheel arches) from corrosion via a preemptive layer of under sealant.
Otherwise, you could just add a bit of character by adding some stylish decals, touching up little bits or painting. You could even go crazy and embrace the iconic “flower power” designs of sixties and seventies campervans.
MODERNISE THE KITCHENETTE
They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and this is certainly true for a mobile one. It’s wise to invest a fair amount of time and energy, then, in refurbishing the kitchenette, modernising its appliances and eking out any extra prep space you can with smart, savvy storage solutions. If you make the kitchenette a place you enjoy cooking and spending time, then you’ll save a big chunk of your holiday budget on eating out.
Not to mention that eating out under the stars is a wonderful way to spend an evening on a campervanning holiday, too.
Items such as magnetic spice racks, foldable chopping boards, and durable crockery which won’t break if you suddenly have to, erm, brake, are all wise investments.
You can make your campervan’s kitchen space look more glamorous, too, by adding a tile backsplash to it. It’s fast and easy to achieve for such a small space but really upgrades the look. Choose something timeless like white subway tile or opt for something with a bit more personality that matches the rest of the space.
Have you been battling acne for a while with no success? It can be disheartening when your breakouts won’t go away. While the problem mainly affects teenagers, acne can also be an issue for adults, often triggered by diet, make-up products, and hormones.
First things first, it’s important not to let acne get you down; it’s a manageable condition and one which often resolves itself in time. That said, it’s worth exploring some simple skincare tips that you can use to prevent a breakout or contain it spreading. And that’s what we’re going to do right now; here’s what to try when your acne won’t clear up.
HAVE A DAILY ROUTINE FOR CLEANING YOUR SKIN
Most of us don’t think enough about the cleansing aspect of our skin. But a regular routine of cleansing is your best tool in the fight against acne.
This acne treatment should be done twice daily to ensure that your face is completely free from dirt and grime, to prevent bacteria from entering your pores and causing breakouts.
Be sure to use a specially formulated cleanser as regular soap may dry out your skin. It is also important to cleanse before you go to bed as this reduces the chances of dirt and oil building up overnight. A good start would be to use a cleanser that contains salicylic acid, a common skincare ingredient that helps breakouts heal effectively.
Never go to bed with make-up on, as this will clog the pores and worsen the condition. It also reduces your sleep quality which can lead to further issues that cause acne breakouts.
AVOID SCRUBBING YOUR SKIN EXCESSIVELY
Many of us are guilty of doing this. Not only does scrubbing irritate your skin, but it also triggers inflammation which can lead to acne breakouts. Instead, you should gently pat dry or wipe off make-up and grime from your face rather than rubbing harshly. This will give your skin enough time to heal.
USE QUALITY MOISTURISING PRODUCTS
Many people don’t give moisturising the importance it deserves. Yet this is a crucial step as your skin can become dry and flaky if you skip this part of your daily care routine. Dry skin will worsen breakouts and can lead to infection, which may leave scars once healed. If you already have acne, using moisturisers with benzoyl peroxide (a medicine used to treat acne) will help unclog pores and heal spots.
As you purchase the moisturiser, you should read the labels to ensure that it is for sensitive skin and suits your type. For example, if you have acne, don’t purchase a product that says it fights oil production, as this may irritate your already-sensitive skin further.
AVOID USING POWDER AND BLUSH DURING BREAKOUT PERIOD
Powder and blush are popular products that give the skin a polished finish. However, these can damage acne-prone skin as they settle in the pores, making them appear bigger. As it is also common during breakout times, this may cause further irritation and acne breakouts.
Always wait for your skin to clear up and heal before you resume using these products. These ingredients may exacerbate the condition and make breakouts worse if used regularly.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR HAIR
Many people forget that hair comes into contact with the face, and hair products can leak on your skin and clog pores. It also settles down in the pores, and grime accumulates, making it a breeding ground for acne-inducing bacteria. Therefore, you should try to remove all traces of your hair from your face when you go for a wash.
STAY OUT OF THE SUN
If you have oily skin, you should stay away from the sun as this will trigger oil production and worsen acne. It also makes your pores larger, which can leave them prone to dirt and grime. If you must be out, always carry a tube of sunscreen to reduce the risk even when it is cloudy outside.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The reality is that acne breakouts may be a sign of other internal issues, such as vitamin D deficiency. If not however, you can manage acne breakouts if you follow the simple steps above. The best strategy is to use a specialized product that helps with the healing process and prevents future outbreaks. But if they persist, schedule a meeting with your dermatologist for checkups and a medical acne treatment.
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!
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!
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!
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.
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…
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!
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.*
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.
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.
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
