Menu
Home Blog Page 194

5 OF THE BEST LUXURY TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FOR 2022

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
5 OF THE BEST LUXURY TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FOR 2022

Sure, we could start with the usual spiel about the word ‘luxury’ meaning different things to different people, whether that’s a warm cup of cocoa next to a crackling fire, or a chorus of kumbaya around a, erm, crackling fire…

But today we’re here to talk about luxury as the gaudy gods intended…with all the bells, whistles, pomp and glamour that the term is traditionally associated with. After the 18 or so months we’ve all had, stuck indoors or staycation bound, might it be time to treat yourself to a luxury holiday abroad to herald what is, hopefully a brighter 2022? We certainly think so, and we’re going to spend the next 1000 or so words talking about it, hopefully providing inspiration for next year’s ritziest recesses. 

With that in mind, here are 5 of the best luxury travel destinations for 2022.

YACHTS, JETS & SUPERCARS IN MONTE CARLO

Monte Carlo, in the heart of Monaco, is the unashamedly exclusive and ostentatious playground of the rich and famous. And much of the ‘play’ here revolves around transport, with the roads, skies and seas that define Le Rocher serving as the playground.

Perhaps the most luxurious way to travel to Monte Carlo is by the comfort of a private jet, available from nearby cities with both domestic and international airports, such as Nice and Marseilles, which can fly you to your resort or onto the deck of an awaiting superyacht. If you’re budgeting for such a splurge, research private jet charter costs well in advance, as prices can fluctuate wildly. This will allow you to assess one way or return flights and plan accordingly.

Or, why not explore the surrounding French Riviera’s winding roads, which reveal vista after vista of gorgeous scenery at every turn? The road from Monaco to Menton on the French border with Italy is just 10 km north along the coast, or to the south, Cannes is an hour’s drive away. 

Of course, if your trip is all about glamour and luxury, you’re going to want to do the coastal drive in a car that’s fit for purpose. Unsurprisingly, Monte Carlo has several dedicated places where you can rent a supercar; Top Car Monaco will rent you a Ferrari 488 GTB for €1’300 a day while Monaco Luxury Car Rentals can sort you out with a Rolls Royce Drophead for €3’200.  

Alternatively, you could just spectate on some seriously supercharged cars; after being cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19, the Monte Carlo Grand Prix resumed in 2021, albeit operating at around a third of normal capacity to allow for social distancing. Next year’s event, running from Thursday 26th May to Monday 30th May, promises to be the biggest ever.

NATURAL WONDER IN THE MALDIVES

The archipelagic state of the Maldives, an hour and a half’s flight from India’s Malabar Coast, is as idyllic as it comes. Boasting ultra shallow, crystal clear waters , powdery white sand beaches, and of course, private island resorts with just the right level of seclusion, the Maldives is a refined, sophisticated location for a luxury holiday. 

Perhaps the most exclusive of all the resorts is Soneva Jani, which sits on an otherwise uninhabited five-island cluster, surrounded by 5 km of lagoon. Many of the villas here boast slides from their top deck into the Indian Ocean below, and there’s even a private, previously 2 Michelin starred chef onsite and on call to cater to your every hunger pang. Yours for $12’000 a night.

To dive a little deeper than that slide allows, many visit the Maldives specifically for the scuba diving opportunities, with the waters offering incredible visibility and a wide variety of sea life; many luxury resorts with their own on-site diving instructors. From May through November, you’ll see manta rays, whale and hammerhead sharks, sea turtles and a whole host of other amazing sea creatures. Or, you could just stare into the seemingly bottomless bowl of a champagne glass in one of the Maldives’ famous underwater restaurants…

SOPHISTICATED SHOPPING IN SAINT TROPEZ

Our second offering on the famously luxurious French Riviera, Saint Tropez offers a slightly more laid back vibe than Monte Carlo. It is technically still a village, after all, and is a little cheaper than its ostentatious cousin some 133 km up the road.

The shopping options in one of the globe’s most glamorous villages are superb, with Saint Tropez’s tightly woven streets packed with boutique clothes shops and outlets from some of the fashion world’s heaviest hitters. 

You won’t have to walk far to spend big here, make no mistake. In the pedestrianised Old Town is where the vast majority of the best shopping opportunities in St. Tropez are found, with the majority of the designer names located on Place des Lices, Rue Gambetta and Rue Allard. Here you’ll find traditional honey and terracotta hued houses hosting the likes of Armani, Dolce and Gabbana, and Rodini.

If you’re keen to pick up some artisan, luxury foods, then be sure to head to Place des Lices Market, which takes place every Tuesday and Saturday morning. In the market, you’ll find incredible pastries, cheeses, charcuterie and bread, ideal for a pit stop before more clothes shopping! Bring your credit card, prices are most definitely premium here.

FINE DINING IN MACAU

Speaking of luxury food, The Vegas of the East, as Macau is sometimes known, boasts one of the most revered restaurant scenes in the world, with all of its 17 Michelin starred restaurants within a five mile radius of each other. If you’re keen for a holiday that gives a concentrated, close-to-clinical dose of haute cuisine, then it’s here you should head. 

That said, it isn’t all 18 course, several hundred dollar tasting menus; Macau boasts a rich and complex history with plenty of Portuguese influences, which has led to a fascinating cuisine which blends East and West adeptly. 

This explains why perhaps Macau’s most famous edible delight of all is the world famous pastel de nata – those gorgeous, moreish custard tarts. Owing to mass Portuguese migration to Macau in the 1980s, much of the cuisine here is flecked with Iberian influences. Try one at Lord Stow’s Bakery in the Venetian Macao Resort. Delicious!

TAKE A CRUISE IN THE CARIBBEAN

As the motivational speaker Harmon Okinyo put it so eloquently, ‘’in today’s life, luxury is time and space’’. And accordingly, we won’t keep you for another minute. 

When you do get the time and space though, check out these 10 IDEAL ports of call on your next Caribbean cruise; a luxury holiday if ever there was one.

HOT TUBS AT HOME: YOUR FAQs ANSWERED

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
HOT TUBS AT HOME: YOUR FAQs ANSWERED

There’s something deeply therapeutic about the idea of slipping into a hot tub, steam rising and bubbling water enveloping. In fact, it’s not just the idea that offers a certain tonic; studies have suggested that hot tubs bring real and tangible benefits to those that use them. 

With pain relief, stress alleviation, muscle relaxation and improved sleep all potential positives attributed to hot tubs, we’re not here to argue with any of those findings, but rather, find an excuse to install one at home.

If you’re looking for a home hot tub for sale but don’t know where to start, then we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you narrow down your search into something more succinct. Here, we answer those FAQs about hot tubs at home…

WHAT HOT TUB SIZE IS STANDARD?

One of the first questions you should ask yourself is what size of domestic hot tub would best suit your needs. Are there only two people in your household who will be using it, or do you anticipate sharing with kids, grandkids, or maybe even party guests? 

Hot tub sizes can be judged at a glance by the number of seats available, usually coming in 2, 4, 6, 8 or 12 seater versions. But if you’re sizing up your garden to make sure you can fit one, then as a rule of thumb, small hot tubs (2 or 3 person) are approximately 200 x 150 x 75 cm, medium sized hot tubs (4 to 6 person) clock in at around 225 x 225 x 100 cm, and large hot tubs (10 to 12 person) are in the 350 x 250 x 100 cm range.

HOW OFTEN WILL I USE MY HOT TUB?

Some hot tub owners only use their hot tub on special occasions, even with a large family. Perhaps as an occasional treat after a long day of work or as an evening surprise for the kids coming home from college. In this case, you might consider purchasing a hard-sided solar-powered inflatable hot tub that can easily be stored away in bad weather months and out on your deck during the warmer ones. 

Read: How to transform your garden into a wellness space

If you’re planning on your hot tub being available for year round use, then a hard shell version is more appropriate. These often come with stylish wooden panels and are generally more durable and better insulated than their inflatable contemporaries, and are therefore better suited to British winters.

HOW MUCH MAINTENANCE WILL BE REQUIRED?

Another question that often comes up is how much maintenance will you be required to do on your new hot tub? Whether you choose an inflatable hot tub, a traditional fibreglass one, or even an above-ground model, there are some standard precautions that every owner should take. 

One of the first things that you can do is look into purchasing a heavy-duty lockable cover for your hot tub. This alone could save hundreds of dollars in water damage each year by keeping leaves and other debris out of the hot tub while it is not in use. If you choose an inflatable or portable model, you’ll want to make sure that the ground surface where the unit sits is even and dry. If any moisture does accumulate, you will need to run a small air compressor over the area to ensure there are no leaks.

WHAT FEATURES DO I NEED?

Once you have answered these basic questions about your family’s needs for their hot tub experience, the next step is to consider the additional features you might like to include. These might consist of options like jet type (massage jets/rotary jets), lighting systems, waterfalls, colour-changing LED lights, or saltwater filtration systems. In recent years, many hot tubs have started to come with a bluetooth speaker system attached, which can be ideal for parties.

It should be noted that hard shelled hot tubs are much more equipped to operate these advanced features.

HOW MUCH CAN I EXPECT TO SPEND ON A HOT TUB?

Another question that consumers might ask is how much they should be spending on a hot tub. Once you know what type of tub suits your needs best, how often it will be used, and if any additional features are required, then the next step would be to determine what kind of budget you have for your new hot tub or spa experience. 

Inflatable hot tubs start at around £300 for a small model, and can hit upwards of £1000 for a medium sized version with some advanced features. Expect to may £1500 for a larger model.

A traditional fibreglass, hard shelled hot tub can range from £1000 for a four-person to upwards of £6000 for larger models that offer multiple seating areas or overhead waterfalls. If you are looking for additional bells and whistles, expect to pay more; but always ask about special sales or discounts available directly through the manufacturers themselves.

It should also be noted that on top of that upfront cost, hot tubs cost around £600 a year to run. Factor that into your budget accordingly. 

Hey, perhaps you might find sufficient water based relaxation in the bath, after all? Check out these tips on creating the ultimate relaxing bath time experience for more on that.

7 REASONS TO BUY A BOUQUET FOR A LOVED ONE TODAY

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
7 REASONS TO BUY A BOUQUET FOR A LOVED ONE TODAY

National Flower Day is celebrated on the 21st March across the Northern Hemisphere, heralding the start of Spring and the blossoming of some of the country’s most beautiful native flowers. 

And while it might feel remiss of us to mention this at the beginning of October, we do so for a reason; autumn has just begun in earnest, and we’re almost as far as we could be from Spring, both looking backwards and going forwards. What better excuse, then, to furnish your home with flowers and houseplants, to lift the mood as nights draw in? 

Or, even better, why not gift a loved one a bouquet, to show that you care and to remind them that whilst Spring may be far away, they are never far from your thoughts.

Phew, is someone cutting onions? It’s all got a bit soppy in here. But if simple sentimentality wasn’t enough of a motive, then perhaps these will be; here are 7 reasons to buy a bouquet for a loved one today.

TO SAY SORRY

Did you have a big fight with your loved one? If so, you might find it hard to say the words ‘I’m sorry’ to them. Elton John had it right, after all.

There may be times when you’re aware that you’re in the wrong, and a verbal apology can be challenging or simply not pack the necessary resonance. This is where sending flowers comes in handy; doing so can be used to express regret or to reopen a new avenue of communication with a loved one with whom you’ve had a falling out.

TO SHOW SYMPATHY

When a friend or family member has lost a loved one or something unexpected has happened to someone close to their heart, buying flowers can be a way to express your condolences. 

Receiving flowers can often provide comfort in a situation where words alone are not enough. As the guys at Bouqs, who offer flower delivery in Seattle, tell us, flowers are a thoughtful way to ‘’express compassion and kindness’’ and can ‘’help console a loved one during a difficult time.’’

TO EXPRESS ONE’S LOVE

Giving flowers to a loved one, whether a girlfriend, a spouse, a parent, or a friend, is a great way to communicate your feelings without having to repeat those often overused three words. Instead, a thoughtful gesture of a bouquet shows you’re thinking of someone and that you love them without having to resort to cliched utterances.

TO MAKE A LOVED ONE SMILE

Is someone in your life feeling lonely? Has a friend or family member been suffering from stress? A sniff of a flower’s sweet fragrance could lift a loved one’s spirits and make them feel better. As clichéd as it may sound, you can be the rainbow in their cloud by giving flowers.

In fact, scientific studies have long pointed to the power of flowers, crediting them with being able to lift our mood and brighten our day. What a beautiful gift that would be.

Sometimes, words just aren’t enough. This is when flowers can play the role of bringing warmth and comfort to someone’s life. Offering a loved one flowers alone can be a way to boost their spirits and bring positivity into their life.

TO EXPRESS KINDNESS

In the Buddha’s words, ‘’If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly our whole life would change’’.

And with the gift of a single bouquet, you can lift someone’s day, whether they’re a co-worker, a sibling, or anyone else who’s close to your heart. Doing so is the ultimate act of selflessness and kindness, and what better reason than that is there?

TO INSPIRE CREATIVITY

If you have a friend, family member or loved one who is struggling with writer’s block, a lack of inspiration or are having issues with productivity in their new home office space, then a gift of flowers may inspire a new outlook in them.

In fact, according to the guys at Office Inspiration Magazine, ‘’The greener our workplace, the better for us’’, citing studies that point to the suggestion that ‘’Not only do office plants have health benefits, they also heighten our sense of well-being and lead to higher productivity.’’

As we stare into a bare, unfurnished room and feel sapped of all inspiration, we couldn’t agree more with this statement.

TO CELEBRATE AN OCCASION

Finally, and perhaps the most common reason for people to send flowers, is to celebrate an occasion. Whether a friend’s birthday or a cousin’s wedding is coming up, buying flowers is never a bad idea, as the gift of a bouquet brings a transient, temporary lift ideal for commemorating a special, one-of-a-kind day.

And now, we’re celebrating the end of this article with a trip to our local florists. Care to join us?

GO SOBER FOR OCTOBER: 7 SURPRISING WAYS ALCOHOL AFFECTS THE BODY

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
GO SOBER FOR OCTOBER: 7 SURPRISING WAYS ALCOHOL AFFECTS THE BODY

A pulsating feeling in your head, the feeling that a cat has died and crawled into your mouth, a wave of nausea after you eat that obligatory McDonalds, a feeling of general malaise that lasts for days. Yep, it’s a hangover, alright, and it’s one that we’re looking forward not to having for the next 31 days.

As summer comes to a close and hibernation season begins, many Brits are pledging to Go Sober for October, with bank balances and bodies feeling the strain of the past few months of partying. With the vast majority having made the most of lockdown lifting after 18 months spent largely indoors, has there ever been a better time for a month of sobriety? 

But if you’re on the fence about whether you’re going to go sober for October, then with the help of Bax Botanics, purveyors of some of the finest alcohol-free spirits around, here are 7 surprising ways alcohol affects the body (spoiler alert; they’re all bad). 

STRESS AND ANXIOUS THOUGHTS

How many of us ‘wine down’ after a stressful day? Needing a drink is all too often an automatic response to a stressful event or a bad day but it can be a vicious cycle; if you’re already feeling stressed, alcohol can exacerbate these feelings. 

This can be particularly acute the day following a drink, when alcohol starts to leave your body and a hangover sets in. The drop in blood sugar levels causes more stress in your brain, triggering anxious thoughts and feelings.  

Indeed, hangover anxiety, or “hangxiety”, is a very real thing. As reported by the Guardian, alcohol targets the GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptor in the brain which calms the brain, which is why you feel more relaxed and cheerful when you drink. However, after your third drink, you start blocking glutamate. 

Put simply, “More glutamate means more anxiety” and “Less glutamate means less anxiety.” When you stop drinking, your gaba and glutamate get all messed up which leads to that feeling of dread that many refer to as ‘the fear’.

Read: How to lose the booze and drink less this autumn

AN AGED APPEARANCE 

‘’Is booze-free the new Botox?’’ recently asked one newspaper who we’d rather not link to. Well, maybe not, but there’s no denying that alcohol in excess can have a pretty harsh impact on your skin. Indeed, alcohol can impact your appearance, dehydrating the skin, and is one of the worst and most aggressive compounds when it comes to skin destruction. 

As such, people who drink regularly often look older than those who don’t for this reason. 

So how exactly does it dehydrate the skin? As GQ explains, “the body metabolizes the alcohol from an enzyme in the liver, which releases a byproduct called acetaldehyde. This byproduct is toxic to body tissues. In turn, body tissues and skin are dehydrated”. And this causes premature aging of the skin.  

And if that wasn’t all, alcohol also inflames the skin, causing redness that can become permanent over time. It may take as long as a month without drinking for the skin to bounce back. 

So, instead of spending a fortune on creams, serums and facials to help keep you looking fresh and invigorated, cutting back on booze could be the cleanest, clearest path to younger-looking skin for longer.  

SPLIT HAIR AND BRITTLE NAILS

Alcohol doesn’t just make your skin look older. The dehydration caused by alcohol can impact your hair, too, making it appear dull and lifeless, and more prone to split ends. This is because our hair is just as reliant on hydration as the rest of our body. Having brittle and dry nails can also be a symptom of drinking alcohol, so even if you’re not going sober for October, do remember to drink plenty of water this autumn to keep your locks luscious and your nails healthy.

NIGHTMARES AND BAD SLEEP

Alcohol has a negative impact on your sleep and can even give you nightmares. While it may feel as though you drift off as soon as your head hits the pillow, alcohol will be disrupting your REM sleep – the period in the night when we dream. REM sleep is supposed to be restorative, but disruption can cause drowsiness and poor concentration the following day. 

Read: 6 smart ways to make your sleep deeper and more restful

ITCHY, BLOODSHOT EYES 

Staying off the booze can even improve your eye health. Binge drinking can cause symptoms associated with dry eyes, such as swollen blood vessels. This can make the eyes look bloodshot, and cause itchiness, irritation and fluctuations in vision. And no one wants that, right?

KILLING ‘GOOD’ GUT BACTERIA

The importance of having healthy gut bacteria can’t be overstated, with the gut microbiome playing a vital role in regulating digestion and benefiting our immune system. In fact, an imbalance of healthy and unhealthy microbes in the intestines may even lead to weight gain, as well as increasing cholesterol and blood sugar to unwelcome levels.

Here’s the thing; alcohol can have a negative impact on our microbiome by killing many of the beneficial bacteria. As such, cutting down on drinking can allow the “good” bacteria in your gut to come back. 

Read: 6 IDEAL ways to improve your gut health

LOSS OF MEMORY 

We all know alcohol impacts the brain; we’ve all slurred a little after one too many or forgotten elements of a night out, only to be reminded in the WhatsApp group chat the following morning. Or afternoon…it’s more likely the afternoon.

This is because booze alters the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. But the long term effects of this alteration are far worse; a period of prolonged heavy drinking can actually shrink brain volume, which is more commonly a sign of brain ageing. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

There are huge physical and mental benefits to cutting down on alcohol, and for those who want to Go Sober this October or perhaps cut down for good, there’s plenty of great tasting alternatives out there, if you’re keen to stay social and enjoy a treat tipple from time to time. We’ll raise our non-alcoholic beer to that!

5 CITIES YOU SHOULD CONSIDER FOR A FRESH START IN 2022

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
5 CITIES YOU SHOULD CONSIDER FOR A FRESH START IN 2022

After a stressful two years, 2022 might be the perfect time for a fresh start abroad. But where?

Have you ever wanted to leave everything behind and start anew somewhere totally different? To say goodbye to your physical and emotional baggage, revise your career path, and embrace the endless possibilities of life? 

Admit it; after the 18 months we’ve all had, the idea sounds pretty appealing, don’t you think?

We think that the late chef and writer Anthony Bourdain had it right when he implored; “Open your mind, get up off the couch, move.”

He wasn’t talking about changing your life by signing up for a Couch to 5K programme, however. Oh, no. Instead, it was the power of travel and new experience he was eulogising.

 ‘’If I’m an advocate for anything, it’s to move. As far as you can, as much as you can. Across the ocean, or simply across the river. The extent to which you can walk in someone else’s shoes or at least eat their food, it’s a plus for everybody.”

By making a new, unfamiliar city your home, you can overhaul your life and re-write your narrative, gaining life experience, perspective and a whole new bunch of friends along the way. 

Today, we’re considering five destinations that are ideal for fresh starts; welcoming, different, inspiring and diverse. Keep in mind, of course, that global travel conditions may make it impossible to enjoy a fresh start anywhere — but let’s operate on the assumption (and hope) that movement will be free enough by 2022 that you can plan a move. One can dream during these turbulent times, after all.

With that in mind, here are 5 cities you should consider for a fresh start in 2022.

BRANTFORD, CANADA

As far as Canadian icons go, there’s one who towers above the rest; no, not Drake, silly. We’re talking about Wayne Gretzky, the NHL legend who dominated so utterly during his career that some of his many records still seem untouchable. Brantford, a city in the south of Ontario and an hours drive from Toronto, happens to be his hometown — but that isn’t why you should think about moving there.

No, what makes Brantford a great city for a fresh start is its strong combination of affordability and culture. Famed for being the birthplace of the telephone, the city features several highly-rated museums, including The Bell Homestead National Historic Site, where Alexander Graham Bell invented the phone. There’s also the Glenhyrst Art Gallery, featuring over 600 pieces both traditional and contemporary.

Brantford boasts several beautiful walking trails and community parks – the Brantford Conservation Area and the Waterworks Park – on the banks of the Grand River, which cuts a swatch through the city. If you’re a lover of both urban living and the great outdoors, this will be music to your ears. 

With various annual festivals, such as the Brantford International Villages Festival, and a great transportation network to help you get around, it’s an incredibly liveable city. 

It’s also a great place to buy property, for those looking for a more permanent switch. Consistently named in recent years as one of the top places to buy real estate, its robust economy pairs with fairly-priced housing to provide a tempting prospect for those looking to buy property abroad. Check with the local mortgage brokers Brantford has to offer, or find a Brantford mortgage broker online if you’re keen to get the ball rolling remotely, from the UK.

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

Though Denmark certainly isn’t a cheap place to live, you might say that you get what you pay for, with countless studies concluding that Denmark boasts the best quality of life in the world. 

It’s also a sociable, inclusive place to live. Copenhagen was the first major city in the world to embrace the concept of co-housing, a system of residents having individual properties but frequently getting together to work on collaborative projects and enjoy one another’s company. For many, it’s the ideal solution to loneliness; introverts can have their privacy when they need it but always know they have people around them to provide them with support. Kinda ideal for making new friends, too…

Employers in the Danish capital offer outstanding working conditions with innovative flexibility. Though incredibly hard working, the Danes value their work/life balance deeply, and while taxes may be high, public services are accordingly top notch, with free healthcare and public childcare partially free, too.

Copenhagen is a compact, easily accessible city, with a welcoming vibe and English spoken everywhere. Public transport runs smoothly (though you’ll barely need it) and most of the key sites are easily walkable. And to top it all off, everything’s positioned to be reachable by bike. 

One of the best parts of Copenhagen is, without doubt, the food, with the city considered one the world’s leading foodie destinations. Check out our guide to 5 of the best restaurants close to Tivoli Gardens (the second oldest theme park in the world and one of the city’s major attractions) for a flavour of what’s on offer.

And if you’re concerned about the cold, cold winters, fear not; the Danes have perfected the cosy comfort of being indoors, next to a roaring fire, better than any other nation on the planet. 

GEORGE TOWN, MALAYSIA

George Town, the capital city of the Malaysian state of Penang and the country’s third most populous city, has so much going for it. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city sees a fascinating convergence of Malaysian, Thai, Indian and Chinese influences, which leads to some truly gorgeous architecture and even more beautiful food.

The national dish of char koay teow (a smoking hot wok stir fry of seafood and noodles) is a must try here, and the Penang version of laksa known as assam also shouldn’t be missed. Each will set you back little more than a £1.

In fact, the cost of living in general in George Town is eminently reasonable for a city of such cultural and culinary clout; an apartment in the centre costs around £250 per month to rent, on average.

British nationals normally don’t need a visa (COVID restrictions aside – the situation is changing regularly) to visit Malaysia, and can stay for 3 months on arrival. After this, you can apply for a visa renewal (extensions aren’t permitted) either at the appropriate embassy or online.

Should you secure a job during this time, you can apply for an Employment Pass, which grants you the ability to live and work in the country for up to 60-months on a work contract. Though buying property here is complex, rentals are affordable.

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND

Switzerland can be an expensive place to live, but it brings a lot to the table if you can afford it. One of its hallmarks is efficiency; famously neutral in matters of politics and global relations, the country prefers to concentrate on its own affairs and stays on top of them. 

Zurich is the biggest economic hub in Switzerland, and it takes that efficiency to an extreme. Public transport is incredibly reliable, for instance, and streets are wonderfully clean at all times. 

Switzerland does have strict immigration requirements, admittedly, so you may struggle to deal with those — but if you can manage it, you can bask in the glory of a city run like clockwork. And you shouldn’t need to worry about a language barrier, since most Swiss people speak English very capably.

Read: 5 of the most expensive and cheapest countries to live comfortably in 2021

CHIANG MAI, THAILAND

Chiang Mai (the ‘New City’) is Northern Thailand’s religious and cultural hub, and is considered the country’s Second City. It offers something quite different to Thailand’s sprawling, turbo-charged capital Bangkok, with a laid back, slow pace to life, a fairly compact city centre, and, whisper it, a fair amount of green space and shade.

Chiang Mai is one of the best places to live in the world for remote workers, with digital nomads able to get by comfortably on a modest wage. You can find gorgeous meals for as little as £1 in food markets and a one-bedroom apartment in the centre averages around £300 per month. So, what are you waiting for?

To get you in the mood, check out these 7 IDEAL things to eat in Chiang Mai. We’ll see you for a bowl of khao soi sometime next year? Here’s hoping!

Delicious And Easy Vegan Recipes That You Will Love

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
Delicious And Easy Vegan Recipes That You Will Love

The most common problem people face is being able to prepare healthy plant-based recipes. There are so many good-tasting restaurant vegan dishes, but not many people know how to cook them.  To solve this problem, here we have 6 delicious and easy plant-based recipes that you will definitely love.

Is it hard to find vegan recipes?

There are probably more plant-based recipes available online than meat and dairy-based ones. There is a high demand for plant-based foods due to the many benefits it has over regular food that is obtained by killing animals, such as reduction of risks for heart disease, improved weight loss, and improved overall health. The good news is you can find amazing Vegan Recipes and you don’t have to give up pizza and other tasty meals. You can simply replace animal products like milk with alternative options such as soy milk, use egg alternatives like flax seeds and tofu instead of actual eggs and replace your usual cheese with cashew cheese. It may take time to get used to new ingredients, but after a while, it will feel natural, and you’ll be able to make vegan versions of your usual recipes.

Now, here are some tasty recipes.

GUACAMOLE BAGEL

Here is an easy vegan breakfast recipe for you, the Guacamole Bagel. First, toast a bagel. Get a bowl and put some guacamole in it. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on top of the guacamole for taste. Then add sliced tomato and cucumber to add crunchiness to the dish.  The recipe is quick and tasty, so you can prepare it even on busy mornings when you don’t have time to cook anything complicated. There are many bagel varieties of this recipe, so you can also find that.

VEGAN PIZZA

If you miss having a cheesy pizza then here is a recipe that will fulfill all your desires, vegan pizza. First, preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. Then take a bowl and add 2 cups of self-rising flour to it. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and mix it with water until the dough starts forming. Take out the dough from the bowl and knead it by adding a little more flour if needed for a few minutes on a clean surface and put it back on the covered bowl for 20 minutes. 

While waiting for the dough to rise, you can prepare some tomato sauce.  Take a bowl and add some tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.  Once the dough has risen, take it out from the bowl and roll it into a pizza base on a greased baking tray with olive oil or using parchment paper. Then add tomato sauce over the dough, followed by vegan cheese if you like. Add any other vegetables before putting them in the oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown color appears on top. Once done, slice your pizza into bite-sized pieces and enjoy!

VEGAN TACOS

Another recipe that will make your intake of healthy food even easier, which are the vegan tacos made out of baked tofu seasoned with taco spices along with salad mix topped with salsa Verde dressing. First, to prepare the tofu you first need to press it by placing a heavy object on top for about half an hour. After that, cut the pressed tofu into small cubes and place them in a bowl. Next, add some taco spices on top of tofu cubes, so they become salty and spicy. Then preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and bake the tofu for 15-20 minutes until golden brown color appears. Meanwhile, you can prepare your favorite salad mix with any vegetables you like along with salsa Verde dressing which is simply made out of tomatillos blended with onion, garlic powder, and salt. Once done baking, take out your tacos from the oven and fill each tortilla shell with baked tofu followed by salad mix topped with salsa Verde dressing.

VEGAN GREEN PESTO PASTA

Here is another recipe that will make your intake of healthy food even easier, which is the vegan green pesto pasta. First, boil water in a saucepan and cook the penne according to the package’s instructions. Once done, put it on a plate covered with some olive oil to prevent sticking. Then get a blender and add basil leaves, parsley leaves, pine nuts, garlic clove, salt, and pepper into it to taste then blend them until it becomes a smooth mixture.

Add some more basil leaves if you like, then pour the green pesto overcooked penne into the plate followed by grated vegan cheese if desired.  The dish is quick and easy, so you can prepare it in less than 30 minutes and can make it at any time. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and you can also add some grilled vegetables on top for more healthy ingredients in your meal.

VEGAN GARLIC BREADSTICKS

As people say, everything’s better with vegan butter, so here is the recipe of vegan garlic breadsticks which is simply made out of fresh yeast dough rolled into strips along with olive oil and garlic powder mixed in a pan. First, prepare the dough by mixing lukewarm water, dry yeast, and sugar until it becomes foamy, then leave it to rest for about 10 minutes. Once done, add flour, salt, and melted vegan butter to the mixture then use a fork to mix all ingredients well before kneading over a clean surface sprinkled with flour. After that, roll the dough into a long strip then cut it into smaller pieces and put them into a round baking pan lined with parchment paper. Next, add some garlic powder on top of your vegan breadsticks along with some grated vegan cheese if desired and bake for about 5 minutes in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Enjoy!

AVOCADO CHOCOLATE MOUSSE

Not many people know that you can make healthy desserts without dairy products such as animal milk or cream cheese, so here is one of them, the avocado chocolate mousse recipe. All you need is avocado, cocoa powder, some lemon juice, and some sweetener of your choice.  To prepare this vegan dessert, take some ripe avocados and wash them properly. Then put the avocados in a blender together with lemon juice, sweetener, and cocoa powder until it becomes a smooth mixture. Pour the mixture onto serving dishes or glasses and refrigerate for 2 hours before putting whipped cream on top if desired. You can serve it plain or add strawberries or other berries on top for more flavor.

These recipes are simply made out of various vegan foods that can be found in any grocery store. These dishes are healthy and simple, so you don’t need to be a cooking expert to prepare them at home. With them, you can cook delicious food for you and your friends and explain to them that there are many amazing plant-based recipes!

BRITISH STREET FOOD IS ON THE RISE…

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
BRITISH STREET FOOD IS ON THE RISE…

The UK hasn’t always embraced street food but – luckily – things are changing!

The COVID-19 pandemic put a spin on the way we eat out, with indoor venues having shut their doors. Business entrepreneurs spotted the opportunity to cut their rental costs significantly, attract new customers, and literally be at the market forefront by going mobile.

Consumers are in favour of this trend, as 50% are buying street food at least once a week, according to a 2016 report.Since this is a fairly new concept, many people are wondering how to go about serving meals on wheels. Here, Van Ninja – who offer Vauxhall van deals – have put together an in-depth guide on starting a street food business from start to finish.

IS GIN GLUTEN FREE?

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
IS GIN GLUTEN FREE?

Gin certainly brings out a contemplative side in us. And if it does you, too, have you ever found yourself staring into the bottom of your Copa, wondering if gin is gluten-free? 

For many, it’s more than just alcohol-infused contemplation that has them asking the question. Sufferers of gluten intolerance or those living with coeliac disease need to be scrupulous about what they’re consuming, and that goes beyond the usual concerns about barley, bread and beer. 

Today, we’re considering the UK’s favourite drink (sorry tea) and whether or not it is suitable for those with a gluten intolerance or those living with coeliac disease. Is gin gluten free? Let’s find out…

SO, IS GIN GLUTEN FREE? 

Well, it’s a little more complicated than a simple yes or no answer, and is the source of keen debate in the immunology and nutrition communities. Though gin is typically distilled with juniper berries, which are not a grain and therefore do not contain gluten, many brands of gin are made using barley or wheat ingredients in the distillation process.  

Though the gluten protein is removed during this process, for some with particularly strong sensitivities to gluten, a danger of adverse reaction remains.

Technically (and this is a debate that continues today) gin is generally considered gluten free because of the distillation process. But if you’re highly sensitive to gluten, it’s best to avoid standard gin brands in favour of something explicitly gluten free, derived from sources like grapes, corn or potatoes instead of wheat, rye or barley.

GLUTEN-FREE GIN OPTIONS

There are several brands of 100% gluten-free gin out there on the market. The guys at Gluten Free Horizons recommend the following 9 gluten free gins to try in 2021:

  • Larios Rose
  • Whitley Neil
  • Hendrick’s
  • Manchester Gin
  • Liverpool Gin
  • Tanqueray Rangpur
  • The Infusionist Passionfruit Gin Liqueur
  • Seedlip Grove 42 (zero alcohol)
  • Ceder’s Wild Alt-Gin (zero alcohol)

It should be noted that tonic water should also be gluten free, though, surprisingly, it isn’t always vegan. 

Read: 5 boozy, end of summer vegan cocktails to try today

It’s a minefield indeed, and if you’re hosting a large event where alcohol is going to be served, it’s something you’re going to have to get your head around to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your guests. Alternatively, consider hiring a mixologist for your party or event, as they will be trained in allergies and intolerances.

WHAT ALCOHOLIC DRINKS ARE NOT GLUTEN FREE?

It’s recommended that those who are gluten intolerant or living with coeliac disease avoid beer, ale, stout and any other malted beverages, as well as sake and rice wine, and dessert wines. That said, gluten free versions of these drinks are available. 

Always read the label scrupulously and if in doubt, only consume products that are explicitly, overtly 100% gluten free.              

JUNIPER BERRY ALLERGIES

When consuming gin, it’s also important to consider the possibility of an allergy to juniper berries, too, should you suffer a reaction after drinking the spirit. People who are allergic to juniper berries may show symptoms of sneezing, a rash, coughing and wheezing. 

SERVING GLUTEN FREE DRINKS AS A BARTENDER OR MIXOLOGIST

As we’ve mentioned, there are some liquors made with ingredients that contain gluten. As a bartender or mixologist, it’s best to be well informed of the ingredients of every single drink you have in stock, making the presence of allergens clear on any menu.

*Any information on the gluten content of particular brands shared above was obtained during the last update of this page. Be sure to check with the manufacturer for the latest info or if you have any questions.*

HOW TO STOP WEDDING PLANNING FROM TAKING OVER YOUR LIFE

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
HOW TO STOP WEDDING PLANNING FROM TAKING OVER YOUR LIFE

Ideal if you’re feeling overwhelmed by wedding planning

Did you know that wacky wedding nightmares are a real thing? You know, that one where you’re walking up the aisle nude? Or how about the one where your partner’s lost the ring? Or, that almost nightly dream where you turn into a wedding cake and start eating yourself? That last one just us? Oh well…

Indeed, wedding anxiety dreams are a genuine occurrence in the lead up to the big day and are, in fact, a symptom of stress.  

If this feels all too familiar, then it’s a tell tale sign that wedding planning is taking over your life. Those nightmares are likely a sign that you’re stressing yourself out and giving yourself too much to do, and that’s no way to enjoy the lead up to your wedding. Instead, communicate, delegate and moderate, with these tips on how to stop wedding planning from taking over your life.  

YOU CAN RELY ON EACH OTHER, UH HUH

And if you can’t, then you probably shouldn’t be getting married… 

‘The happy couple’; the clue’s in the billing don’t you think? As the saying goes, ‘two heads are better than one’, and this is certainly true for sharing the wedding planning load fairly and amicably. 

Although tradition dictates that one half tends to take on more of the planning than the other, the wedding shouldn’t be a one-person effort. If both of you are ‘all in’ on the wedding planning, then you can manage your time more efficiently, and stop it from taking over both your lifes. By ensuring you have the full support of your soon-to-be spouse, you’re effectively doubling the time you have to plan. As Dolly intoned; ‘’Tender love is blind, it requires a dedication’’. She’s right, you know.

Read: Things no one tells you about planning your wedding (until now!)

GET YOUR FAMILY INVOLVED

If you want to keep your parents busy and focused on the event without them meddling in all the finer details, then carefully choose some task specific roles which they could complete, keeping them busy and occupied in the run up. 

Should your father be a skilled baker, for instance, you could ask him to make the cake. If your mum has an eye for aesthetics and an encyclopaedic knowledge of all things floral, then of course she’d be perfect for helping out with the flower arranging. Rather than leaving the planning in the (interfering) hands of the gods, make work for idle ones instead. 

Read: 5 tips for involving your folks, IDEAL for managing your parents’ expectations during the lead up to your wedding 

DELEGATE TASKS TO FRIENDS 

Teamwork makes the dream work, after all, and no wedding organised by one person alone ever went smoothly. Instead, make the most of your friend’s varied skill set, getting the best out of everyone with clear instructions, constructive criticism and plenty of praise.

Some things you can ask your bridesmaids and friends to help with include: 

  • Any DIY wedding projects
  • Help setting up the event
  • Bridal Emergency Kit
  • Sleepover essentials for the night before the wedding 

This means you can concentrate on the little things, be it creating personalized wedding gifts for your other half, or designing a table plan that keeps Uncle Kevin well away from his ex-wife, Aunty Pauline. 

KEEP YOUR WEDDING IN PERSPECTIVE

Sometimes when you’re spending 99.9% of the time planning, you can feel like a hamster running around in its wheel with endless tasks to complete and never a moment to take stock. While being overly productive right now may feel necessary,  if your wedding workload is draining and crushing you, then it’s time to put things in perspective. 

Your wedding is just one day. Will your wedding guests really remember those stunning floral arrangements as you walk down the aisle? Probably not as they will be focused on you and your husband-to-be. However, will your mother remember that lovely handwritten note thanking them for everything? Most definitely, yes. 

It’s all about prioritising the things that really matter here, and not sweating the small stuff. Here’s a list of other things your guests may not care about, so don’t fuss about them: 

  • Wedding invitations and wedding calligraphy
  • Ridiculously overpriced flowers 
  • A choreographed first dance
  • How the food is served – be it buffet or seated, you’re providing everyone with a free meal! 
  • Wedding favours
  • The cake 

Things they may well care about:

  • Having a great time filled with love, affection and appreciation
  • …that’s all

Read: 5 things worth spending your budget on

HUMP DAYS ARE FOR WEDDING PLANNING 

Wednesdays, the middle of the week, otherwise known as ‘hump day’. Why not put this mid-week day that’s often associated with a lack of ambition and motivation to good use and schedule it in for wedding planning?  

One of the best ways to prevent your wedding from taking over your life is to allow yourself the time you need in order to complete each task.  Setting some time aside on a specific day each day when you can work on your wedding is sensible; this avoids overspill into family or work time. 

Try not to take on more tasks than you can reasonably handle each Wednesday. In other words, you can avoid overworking by working less. Work smarter, not harder, as they say.

A SELF-IMPOSED WEDDING BAN 

It’s easy to let love and self-care take a back seat when you’re wedding planning. When things are getting too much, it’s time to step back and take some time out.

In times like these, allow yourself to go on a self-imposed wedding ban for a while. This not only means time out from wedding planning, it means not allowing yourself to think or talk about it too. If someone asks “how are the wedding plans going’’ simply tell them you’re taking some time out of planning. Let them figure out the rest!

While you’re on your self-imposed wedding ban, try to adopt some new self-care habits that will help you cope with the stresses of wedding planning. Let us direct you to our article on 7 IDEAL self care routines to adopt today.

MAKE TIME FOR EACHOTHER

As reported by Bustle according to a new survey of 500 engaged and newlywed couples, “seven out of eight couples (96 percent) said wedding planning was stressful” Moreover, “43 percent of couples surveyed said wedding planning put a strain on their relationship”.

Since planning your big day can cause a lot of tension, it’s important to make time to go out with your partner and talk about something that isn’t wedding planning. Head to a gallery, go to the theatre, or simply a country walk, anything that will give you both time to decompress.

Read: 6 tips for stressing less in the lead up to your wedding

JUST THE TWO OF YOU

And if all else fails…you could always elope! Indeed, choosing to elope instead of dealing with the headache of planning your wedding, eloping is a chic and discreet option that is becoming more and more common, particularly in a potentially post-pandemic world.

Speaking of which, check out these 5 considerations for couples getting engaged in 2021. Oh, and can we expect our invitation in the post?

10 WAYS TO BE MORE SOCIABLE TODAY

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
10 WAYS TO BE MORE SOCIABLE TODAY

There’s nothing quite like socialising with friends and family, and the warm, convivial feeling it brings. For a few hours, it can feel like all is right with the world and that the stuff raging beyond is just an illusion. 

However, many of us are dealing with pandemic fatigue that’s made us less sociable, and, whisper it, reluctant to put ourselves out there anymore. As Greater Good explains, “Loneliness, rather than prompting us to connect, actually makes us withdraw, according to research. We start to feel unworthy of our relationships, worried that people are judging us or don’t enjoy being around us”.

An 18 month spell spent largely in our own homes with stress levels high has led, for many, to a newfound, unwelcome trepidation about social situations now the UK has opened up again. 

It shouldn’t have to be this way. Don’t let stage fright, fear or uncertainty stop you from enjoying your social life; here are 10 ways to be more sociable today.

REST ASSURED THAT WE ALL NEED SOLITUDE 

Hmm, we realise this runs somewhat counterintuitive to being more social. However, we all need to embrace solitude and cherish a little ‘me time’ in the name of being more social. 

As psychologist Virginia Thomas explains in Psychology Today, “aloneliness”—the opposite of loneliness, the lack of solitude—is a real problem. People who are lacking in solitude can “end up feeling irritable, overwhelmed, or drained”, so before you focus on getting out there and socialising, make sure you’re taking care of your own wellbeing. 

GET MORE SLEEP

Ask yourself how many times you’ve cancelled on a friend because you were too tired? Or how difficult a social event was because you were only operating at about 1%? Well, did you know that poor sleep can wreak havoc on your social life as sleep-deprived individuals are less socially attractive to others? 

Research by the University of California reveals that if you haven’t slept enough, you may seem more socially unacceptable to others. Sleep-deprived individuals are more likely to feel lonely and less inclined to interact with others, too. 

Does this mean that your well-rested pals are social butterflies? Not entirely, as the study also suggests that someone who is otherwise well-rested may even feel lonely after a brief encounter with a sleep-deprived person. This, in turn, can potentially trigger a viral contagion of social isolation.

It’s a vicious cycle, as Dr Matthew Walker, professor of psychology and neuroscience at Berkeley, points out; “the less sleep you get, the less you want to socially interact. In turn, other people perceive you as more socially repulsive, further increasing the grave social-isolation impact of sleep loss.”

The latest thinking suggests that adults need somewhere between seven and nine hours sleep a night to properly recharge their batteries. If you think that a lack of sleep is affecting your social life, and you’re keen to stay socially active and make new friends, then it might be time to place more emphasis on the importance of sleep.

DON’T BE A RUBBISH REPLIER 

There are two types of people in this world, those who reply to WhatsApp messages promptly and those who wake up in the middle of the night in a panic, realising they’ve neglected their inbox for weeks. Even for those of us who fall into the former category, it’s a familiar story; you screen a message, thinking we’ll reply later, only to remember a week down the line. 

If you find yourself replying to every message with “so sorry, I’ve only just seen this”, then it’s time to make your rubbish replying a thing of the past.

Recall what it’s like when someone doesn’t reply to your message. Perhaps a sense of crippling anxiety comes over you. Or maybe the lack of response leaves you believing that the other person doesn’t like you? This, we’re sure, is something that you never intentionally set out to make someone else feel. 

So how do you leave your bad replying gene behind you? Actively reply to messages. Allow yourself a set time each day to sit down and reply to everyone. If you’re really busy, acknowledge the message and tell them you’ll reply later. And remember to!

Speaking of unsociable habits….

©[nicoletaionescu] VIA CANVA.COM

QUIT UNSOCIABLE HABITS

We all have a few bad habits, but most of us manage to keep them confines behind closed doors. But when you’re letting your bad habits become part of your public persona, it’s going to start putting friends off. Some bad social habits include…

Staring at your screen: When you’re with your friends, cherish the time you’re spending together, rather than being in contact with others via your phone. Kinda defeats the point of meeting up in person, don’t you think?

Being negative – No one wants to hang out with a Debbie Downer. End of. 

Smoking  – According to research back in 2007, 78% of smokers think that smoking is an ‘anti-social’ habit. There are, of course, others who think that social smoking is sociable, but that seems to be a diminishing group.

Most people don’t like smoking, it smells and causes bad breath, and the habit sees conversations at tables interrupted for those who need to go out for a puff then come back with the odour of cigarettes. If you’re slowly giving up, consider a vape, which can be more sociable; at least you won’t smell of smoke if you find the right one.

Being flakey: Cancelling plans leads to frayed relationships. To start with, don’t say yes to plans if your heart’s not in it, as you’ll most likely flake out of them at the last minute. This causes ruptures that are hard to heal.

BE A GOOD LISTENER & ASK QUESTIONS 

One of the best ways of connecting with people is to practice active listening, rather than simply waiting for your turn to speak. In doing so, you’ll learn more about your friends, provide a supportive ear to someone’s problems, and invest in your relationships, nurturing understanding and compassion.

Matthias Mehl, PhD, the director of the Naturalistic Observation of Social Interaction explained to Good House Keeping that “Curiosity and empathy are two catalysts for meaningful social interactions”. We couldn’t agree more.

To help you become a better listener, try and practice ‘active listening’ which as Britsh Heart Foundation explains “can make your communication more effective and make the other person feel more valued. Some active listening steps recommended by BHF include not interrupting, not to plan what you’re going to say next as you can’t listen and prepare at the same time, not to impose opinions or solutions and by paraphrasing and summarising by starting a sentence with “Sounds like you are saying…””

PAY COMPLIMENTS TO PEOPLE

Compliments can boost a person’s self-esteem – for both giver and receiver! Indeed, when we pay a compliment, not only does it make the complimentee feel good, but it also amplifies our own self-confidence, too.

Yep, this one’s a virtuous, self-fulfilling circle, so set yourself a goal to compliment at least one person each day. Of course, you don’t want to be overly personal or effusive in your praise; this may come across as disingenuous or, worse, sleazy. Instead, be genuine, thoughtful and tactful with your compliments. 

Read: 7 ideas for random acts of kindness to brighten up someone’s day

BRING OUT YOUR INNER HOST 

Spending quality time together is vital for relationships to flourish. Whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert, hosting a gathering at your house can be a great way to be sociable whilst also managing the agenda. Host a bi-monthly dinner party or brunch, with friends coming to visit and luxuriating in each other’s company and your great cooking! Learn how to become the hostess with the mostest here. 

If you’re a more one-on-one kind of person, why not invite your friends over for dinner separately? As Elite Daily explains “hanging out with just one of your friends every once in awhile doesn’t mean you are rejecting the amazing feels the whole group gives you”, it simply allows you to form closer bonds with your friends as individuals which helps make your group dynamic works.

©[M_a_y_a] VIA CANVA.COM

GET INVOLVED WITH YOUR COMMUNITY

Being part of an engaged, active community gives us a sense of belonging and helps us give something back, too. So, consider volunteering for a local charity shop, donating your time to a homeless shelter, or picking up the shopping for those less fortunate. Check out the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) to find opportunities to engage with your local community today.

BECOME A LOCAL SOMEWHERE 

Find a spot that you love, whether it be a cafe, cocktail bar, the ‘club’ at the gym, beauty salon or even a library, and give it your patronage regularly. In doing so, you’ll find like-minded people with whom you can share experiences with and form a new social circle.  

And the good news is that scientists believe that becoming a regular is actually good for your health. Studies show that regular pub patrons are more likely to have close friends who they can “call for support”, and are happier and more trusting than those who don’t regularly visit their local watering hole. 

Moreover, those who drop into their local regularly feel “more engaged with their wider community.” And we could all do with a bit of that right now, don’t you think?

DON’T SWEAT THE LITTLE THINGS

We don’t mean literally here; a little perspiration is natural, after all. But it’s so easy to get caught up in self image and what other people think of you. It’s also easy to worry that you did something embarrassing or said something wrong the last time you engaged with friends or family. Indeed, many of us feel pressure to be interesting, some also feel pressure to be positive, or look a certain way…

Instead, be yourself and embrace your individuality when socialising. This is the real side of you, and it’s also the most charming version!

THE BOTTOM LINE 

Humans are social creatures, dependent on the validation, support and even occasional criticism of their peers for survival. Spending time with loved ones is one of the best things you can do for your mental health, helping you live a longer, happier life. So, the next time someone suggests stepping out of your comfort zone, say yes, with arms wide open. You won’t regret it!

WHERE TO BUY GLASSES ONLINE: SMARTBUYGLASSES

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
WHERE TO BUY GLASSES ONLINE: SMARTBUYGLASSES

If you’re someone who’s worn glasses for years, you’ll understand the struggle of finding a new pair. They’re your everyday essential accessory and it’s so important that they not only look good on you, but also protect your eyesight and help keep those lovely peepers of yours healthy. 

Choosing the correct pair takes some serious foresight and a keen eye for detail and design if you’re to get this thing right. For one, the glasses frames need to suit your own unique style, showcase your personality, and sit comfortably on your face, as well, of course, holding lenses that facilitate you seeing well. Thanks to modern technology, you can now easily shop for prescription glasses online, matching them to your face effortlessly.

Offering a value collection alongside high-end designer frames, you can buy cheap glasses online and prescription glasses from SmartBuyGlasses, with frames starting from as little as £7. 

The online store is easy to browse; the eyewear retailer offers something suitable for everyone, with glasses for women, men, kids and everything in between! If you’d like to make a statement in the office or find the perfect pair to match a new outfit, the company have a variety of fashionable frame styles to suit every occasion.

Often, it can be hard to envisage the eyeglasses on your face (particularly when buying online), but with these tips from SmartBuyGlasses, you’ll find buying glasses online has never been easier. Let’s take a closer look…

IDENTIFY YOUR FACE SHAPE

The first step to choosing the perfect glasses for you is to identify your face shape. This is crucial 

as you need to understand what frame type best suits the beautifully unique lines, contours and angles of your face, in order to make the best selection. 

With so many frame styles available, it can be pretty overwhelming to shop for glasses online, so this helps to narrow down the selection a little bit. For example, cat-eye frames can really suit an oval shaped face, while square shaped faces can look great in round or oval frames. If you have a round shaped face, classic rectangle frames could be right for you. 

If you need more help, SmartBuyGlasses offers a useful frame shape guide and other style guides in their blog. 

TRY GLASSES ON VIRTUALLY

Using the latest tech, SmartBuyGlasses virtual try-on feature allows you to virtually try on a pair of glasses all from the comfort of your own home. All you need to do is download the app and take a five-second selfie video from your desktop or mobile, by simply turning your head to the left and right (to give an accurate reading of your face shape) and you’re done! 

The tool will virtually impose a pair of glasses frames onto your face so you can see if they suit you, there’s hundreds of frames to choose from. Take a quick selfie and try virtual glasses on…it’s kind of like using an online mirror, when you think about it.

GET YOUR PRESCRIPTION

You might’ve tried online alternatives to everyday tasks, like online doctor appointments and shopping for groceries – but did you know that you can also get your prescription glasses online? With SmartBuyGlasses, you can easily identify the prescription in your current glasses frames by using their new Prescription Lens Scanner. 

If you’ve misplaced your prescription, or simply don’t have it to hand, all you need to do is download the SmartBuyGlasses Lens Scanner app to find out your prescription. It uses the latest technology to scan your current lenses and procure your prescription information…pretty cool, huh? Welcome to eyewear made easy, indeed.

Read: The IDEAL guide to prescription glasses terminology

PERSONALISE YOUR GLASSES

So, you’ve picked your favourite pair of glasses, what next? Simply add the frames to your basket and choose which lenses you need. 

To get the most out of your eyewear purchase, you can choose to add various coatings and tints allowing you to personalise the frames to your needs. Here, you have the option to choose from transition lenses, polarised lenses, mirrored lenses, and much more. If you’re often working in front of a digital screen, or like to game or watch TV in your spare time, you could try innovative blue light filter lenses, known as zFORT™. 

These are designed to protect you from the harmful blue light that is emitted from our digital screens. SmartBuyGlasses also have a fantastic range of blue light blocking glasses available too, from high-end designer brands to more affordable frames.

Read: The best ways to improve your circadian rhythm and sleeping patterns 

Whatever your style, prescription or personal preferences, you’re bound to find a pair of glasses you not only like, but love. All frames come with a best price guarantee, 2-year warranty and 100 days to return. Happy shopping!

8 Places To Eat The Best Fried Calamari & Chipirones in London

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
8 Places To Eat The Best Fried Calamari & Chipirones in London
Ideal for your fried squid fix…

Here at IDEAL we’re suckers for seafood, especially fried squid. Give us a crisp cluster of calamari on a plate and we’re happy chappies. That said, there’s little more disappointing than a batch of tough, soggy calamari, but sadly, it’s the latter that seems to end up on the plate more than the former.

Yep, cooking calamari to perfection is surprisingly hard work. Luckily, we’ve done our research so you will never have to experience chewy, overcooked calamari again. From tiny squidlets fried whole (tentacles and all) to glorious golden rings of perfection, we’ve handpicked our favourite places to enjoy fried calamari in London.

BARRAFINA

Ideal for a true taste of Spanish chipirones

No list of the best calamari in London would be complete without mentioning the chipirones at Barrafina. Encased in a batter that gives a wonderfully pleasing crunch, the squeakingly fresh baby squid is tender and expertly cooked. You won’t find anywhere in London that cooks this Spanish speciality better.

www.barrafina.co.uk

DISHOOM

Ideal for calamari that sings with flavour

It’s no secret that the squid at Dishoom is good. We can’t get enough of it. The calamari is perfectly fried to a light, golden crunch and hums with a drizzle of sweet housemade sauce which is perfectly offset with a spritz of lime. If you come here in a large group, order two portions – it goes fast.

www.dishoom.com

BUSABA EATTHAI

Ideal for calamari with a Thai touch

There’s a lot of love out there for Busaba’s signature wok tossed calamari in ginger and green peppercorn sauce. Fans are so enamoured with it that there are countless attempts to recreate the recipe online. It’s one of the restaurants proudest dishes and they sell it by the truckload. We can see why. This sweetly spiced squid is addictive. There’s also a vegan men serving up ‘soymari’ which is prepared in the same way as the restaurants famous calamari.

www.busaba.com

HOPPERS

Ideal for devilled chipirones

With the second Hoppers outpost at St. Christopher’s Place came many good things. For one, you could make a reservation. Secondly, a little more elbow room. But most importantly, the menu had a new addition; hot, buttered, devilled chipirones. Woah there, you say, too many adjectives. But they are hot. Buttery. And devilishly spicy and delicious. So why not be verbose about it? We certainly are. Just delicious.

hopperslondon.com 

ROKA, CANARY WHARF

Ideal for dressed up squid

The fried squid at Roka is something else. Tiny and tender deep fried squid is seasoned to perfection with

togarashi and just a squeeze of lime. They come with a dark chili and shiso sauce sauce for dipping which adds an sweetness and another layer of flavour to the dish. T

HAKKASAN

Ideal for Michelin starred salt and pepper squid

Salt and pepper squid is a staple favourite at most Chinese restaurants. Not all salt and pepper squid dish was created equal, however, and Hakkasan’s is up there with the best we’ve ever had. Full of bold flavour, the quality of their salt and pepper squid is hard to fault. The price is, though; yours for £19.

hakkasan.com

DUMPLINGS & BAO

Ideal for salt and pepper squid with fire and flare

Less pricey than Hakkasan, the salt and pepper squid at Dumplings and Bao (formerly On Cafe) is just as good. The chef brings extra flare to the dish with an array of flavour bombs; think Shaoxing wine, Szechuan pepper, sesame oil, curry leaves, lemongrass, red and green fresh chilli, and smoked sea salt. The end result – a depth of flavour that’s phenomenal.

dumplings&bao

MISS TAPAS

Ideal for golden rings of perfection in Peckham

The Calamari Fritti is not always on the menu at Miss Tapas, but when it is, we’re there. Their crispy calamari with homemade aioli is the stuff of dreams – as is the price of these suckers.

misstapas.com

5 GREAT WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR UNUSED GARAGE SPACE

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
5 GREAT WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR UNUSED GARAGE SPACE

Perhaps you’ve decided to do your bit for the environment and have ditched your car in favour of your feet? Maybe you’ve repeatedly failed your driving test, and decided cars just aren’t for? Or, have you switched to an EV and are now charging yours in a new, public location?

There are many rhetorical reasons why you might have a garage space that’s unused, unloved and gathering dust. Instead of wasting this valuable space, why not declutter your garage and put it to good use? Once you remove the household junk, you can use your garage in many different ways, potentially adding value but certainly bringing comfort to your life. Here are 5 great ways to make the most out of your unused garage space.

HOME WINE BAR

We’re not talking about your average domestic bar found at the end of a middle-aged man’s garden, decorated in the colours of their favourite football team. We’re talking about a stylish and sophisticated space that channels London’s swanky wine bars. Think P. Franco, Flor, Quality Wines, Sager & Wilde, Bright and Noble Rot. These are the places our Monzo spending summaries reveal a shameful devotion to. Bring the same vibe to your unused garage space for you and your friends to enjoy.

There are certain characteristics and aesthetics of a great wine bar that are easy to pinpoint – those exposed brick walls, the subtle, flickering lighting, the empty bottles seemingly holding up a ceiling. Other elements are a little harder to define. Let us direct you to our article on how to create the IDEAL wine bar experience at home for more inspiration.

RECREATIONAL SPACE

At the end of a hard day, having your own space to retreat to can be heaven. Revamping the garage into a recreational space can help melt away the stresses of everyday life and get your creative juices flowing. 

Whether it’s a games room, a home cinema or a place to practice meditation, the first thing you need to do is make the garage more comfortable. Depending on the type of garage you have, you may need to install drywall, set up electrical outlets and raise the floor. Replacing your existing door with an insulated garage door is key to maintaining the optimum temperature in your garage.

HOME GYM

It can be difficult when you feel like working out but the gym just isn’t accessible. In this instance, a home gym is a very welcome domestic addition indeed. The best home gyms allow you to tone your muscles, strengthen your body and increase your overall fitness. 

Home gym equipment needn’t be expensive either. When it comes to the basics, all you really need is an exercise mat, resistance bands and a skipping rope. However, you can step it up a notch by adding a suspension trainer for a resistance workout, a set of kettlebells to build strength and an elliptical for cardio. Just make sure you put down an exercise mat to protect your floor (and your body) from damage.

Read: 10 IDEAL tips for turning your garage into a home gym

HOME OFFICE

If you work from home regularly, transforming your garage into a home office can help you strike a good balance between your home life and work. Rather than doubling one of your living spaces as an office, stepping into the garage will help create a clearer divide and encourage you to be more productive. Not to mention, at the end of the working day, it will feel much easier to properly down tools and switch off if you have to walk away and leave your work in the garage.

Garages typically don’t let a lot of natural light shine through, but installing a garage door with a window can help create a better work environment. Adding leafy green plants and creating layers of light with multiple lighting fixtures can also help to make it more comfortable.

INDOOR GARDEN

If you are lacking a garden but have an unused garage to play with, why not convert it into an indoor garden? From installing artificial light sources to going all out and adding windows to your garage, there are a few ways you can go about creating an indoor garden.

Besides light, you can create a greenhouse effect by hanging up some plastic sheeting and creating the right temperature using an external heat source.

Now, let’s get our hands dirty and put them to work on those ideas, but first, a little more theory; check out this beginner’s guide to converting your garage into a living space.

KEEPING YOUR EMPLOYEES HAPPY: A SHORT GUIDE

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
KEEPING YOUR EMPLOYEES HAPPY: A SHORT GUIDE

Everyone knows that the key to a successful business is happy employees. It’s up to them to make the products work, to sell the company, and to keep the production line moving. Easier said than done, we realise, by here’s a start; our short guide to keeping your employees happy.

FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS

Since the beginning of the pandemic, businesses around the world have embraced flexible working arrangements which seemed inconceivable pre-COVID. Now, many employers recognise that it just makes good business sense to provide flexible working opportunities for their staff. 

As Forbes reports, a recent study conducted inside a Fortune 500 company “found that employees who were placed on a flexibility program were both happier at work and less prone to burnout and psychological stress than their colleagues who were not on the program”.

Indeed, documented benefits of remote working include reduced time and expense commuting, better time management, improved morale and a decrease in tardiness. Since so many companies have now completed most of the groundwork in shifting their company to remote working, it would be folly to return to old practices once this thing’s all over.

This is among the best employee reward ideas because it encapsulates so many different elements that make workers happy. For one, it shows that you trust them to get the job done without micro-managing their every move.

Read: 5 ways to encourage a productive flexible working environment

ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH CARE

In a post-pandemic world it’s essential that you cultivate a workplace atmosphere where wellbeing and positive mental health practices are placed at the forefront of everything you do.

As the BBC reports, “88% of companies in the United States are investing more in mental health. More than 80% are spending more on stress-management and resilience resources, and more than half of the companies surveyed are offering new mindfulness and meditation programmes”.

Responsible employers should have systems in place to encourage this focus on mental health. Guided meditation sessions, gym memberships, regular mental health awareness days, and a mentors and confidants system within the organisation are all great ways of nourishing a harmonious, healthy workplace.

Go further, and facilitate (and finance) any assessments, tests, and investigations that might be required. Employees who often get distracted might benefit from an adult ADHD assessment to help them understand the cause of their distractions and better manage their day-to-day tasks, whereas those who are keen to exercise more – both for its physical and mental health benefits – may well benefit from the company providing a gym membership as part of their contract.

This thing is multi-faceted, and those truly responsible employees approach the wellbeing of their staff in a holistic way.

SHOW APPRECIATION

Demonstrating appreciation for employees is fundamental to fostering a positive and motivated workforce. When employees feel valued and recognised for their hard work and contributions, they are more likely to remain engaged and committed to their roles. This sense of appreciation can nurture a culture of loyalty and morale, where employees are motivated to put forth their best efforts consistently.

Furthermore, regular acknowledgment of employees’ achievements and contributions can lead to increased job satisfaction, making staff feel that their work has purpose and impact within the company. You can easily get some employee recognition gift ideas from the web and start a program that will make everyone feel valued. This overall sense of value can significantly reduce turnover rates, as employees are more likely to stay with an employer who genuinely appreciates them.

Moreover, appreciation in the workplace can enhance team cohesion and collaboration. When employees feel appreciated, they are more likely to reciprocate respect and recognition to their colleagues, fostering an environment built on mutual respect. This atmosphere not only improves interpersonal relationships but also boosts overall productivity and creativity, as employees feel more comfortable sharing ideas and working together.

In addition, regular expressions of gratitude, whether through verbal acknowledgments, awards, or other incentives, can lead to a more positive and energetic workspace where stress levels are mitigated, and employees thrive. Therefore, appreciation is not just about acknowledging work done but also about building a supportive and thriving workplace culture.

CULTIVATE A CULTURE OF DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Creating a culture of diversity and inclusion is essential for fostering a workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. A diverse environment enhances creativity and innovation, reflecting varied perspectives and experiences.

Start by implementing clear diversity and inclusion policies, outlining the company’s commitment and steps to promote inclusion. DEI programs in the workplace on unconscious bias and cultural competence can help employees understand the importance of diversity and how to foster an inclusive environment.

Encourage open dialogue through employee resource groups (ERGs), diversity councils, and town hall meetings. Review recruitment practices to ensure they attract a diverse pool of candidates, using diverse interview panels and unbiased job descriptions.

Mentorship programmes can support the career development of employees from diverse backgrounds, providing guidance and advocacy for their advancement. Regularly assess the effectiveness of diversity initiatives through employee surveys and diversity audits.

KEEP EQUIPMENT WELL MAINTAINED & LOOKED AFTER

Showing employee appreciation isn’t, as the team at Swag Bar sagely point out, only about doling out praise and the occasional bonus. Even more importantly, it’s about keeping equipment well maintained and looked after to help your employees feel safer on the shop floor. By getting equipment regularly checked and maintained, you can help ensure that your employees will be happy about the conditions within their workplace. Making sure that you have the right equipment is essential. 

Using equipment that can increase production speed and efficiency will lead to increased productivity and morale. As the guys at Fluent Conveyors tell us, this is a win-win situation for both you and the people who work for you. 

PROVIDE THOROUGH TRAINING & TOP-UP COURSES 

It’s vital that as a responsible employer you continue to nurture any employee’s development, particularly with regard to mentoring. Providing thorough training and top-up courses can be another way to make sure that your employees are confident in their jobs. Whether you choose to complete the training in-house, or you decide to let your employees use software to get their qualifications remotely, providing relevant training can bring plenty of benefits to your business. 

Not only does training attract talent, but it also encourages people to do a better job of the tasks they are given, as it makes them more organized and prepared to complete their roles. Top-up courses that update knowledge and certifications are likely to encourage employees to stay too with the company, which will help your business’s employee retention rates. 

STAY ORGANISED & KEEP YOUR STAFF INFORMED

Staying organized and keeping staff informed can be a great way to make workplace communities stronger and keep people happier. It can help the overall flow of your business massively, too. The organisation is one of two key functions of running a business, and everything will fall apart without it. 

Communication is the other key function. Communicating plans and features with your employees keeps them in the loop, meaning that they can work more efficiently on their own projects, without needing to think about other people. Conversely, bad communication can lead to uncertainty and hesitancy, which can only have a negative impact on your business.

THE BOTTOM LINE

When it comes to making your employees happier, you want to make sure that you have these key points ticked off. You need to make sure that they have the right tools and equipment available to them, provide thorough training as well as refresher courses, and keep your business organized and communications smooth. By doing this, you can make your employees happier, and therefore make your business better.

A RELIABLE MOTORHOME: 6 TIPS FOR FOR ENSURING A SMOOTH ROAD TRIP

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
A RELIABLE MOTORHOME: 6 TIPS FOR FOR ENSURING A SMOOTH ROAD TRIP

Motorhomes, campervans, RVs, – you say potato, I say, erm…slightly larger potato?

Whether you’re driving a larger motorhome, a smaller campervan, or you’re using the umbrella term RV (phew, that’s enough semantics for one day), you’ll need to ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and properly equipped for long journeys of adventure. Because there’s no bigger buzzkill on a freewheelin’ road trip than being stuck at the side of the road for hours waiting for help.

Anyway, it needn’t have to end like that. There are so many motorhomes for sale, both new and used, that it can be hard to know where to find the most reliable model.

If you’re thinking about buying a new motorhome, VW, Ford, Fiat and Mercedes are reliable models and ideal for British Holiday. However, when it comes to secondhand models, as Paul from Classic Motor Home Owner points out, “How reliable a motorhome is really depends on how well it has been looked after in the past and how well it is being looked after right now.”

Best to give any potential RV a thorough once over before signing on the dotted line, then.

Regardless of whether yours is brand new or second hand, or whether you purchased it from a local specialist or via a multi dealer, it’s essential that you carry out maintenance checks before your departure. Here are some tips on checking your motorhome is reliable, IDEAL for ensuring a smooth road trip.

CHECK FOR SIGNS OF EXTERNAL DAMAGE, DEGRADATION & LEAKS

An RV, caravan or motorhome should be able to move, sure, but first and foremost, your vehicle should provide you with shelter. We all know that the risk of weather jeopardising a holiday in the Great British Outdoors is ever present, so it’s essential that you carry out some cursory checks on your vehicle’s roof, doors and body for signs of damage, degradation and the possibility of leaks.

Start by inspecting the roof for any leakage, with both an interior and exterior examination. You may well have to give it a good clean, removing grit, dirt and debris accumulated on previous excursions, but the entry point of a leak is almost always a broken seal or the motorhome’s skylight. Don’t ignore the rooftop HVAC systems, either. 

Keep an eye out for black mold spots on the ceiling, doors, and windows of your motorhome, too. If you observe any apparent traces of damp, you should use a dehumidifier for a few hours…you don’t want your rest and relaxation disturbed by mold and damp, after all. Neither does your vehicle; these are issues that can lead to lasting, sometimes irreversible damage.

CHECK THE ELECTRICS, TOILETS & WATER SYSTEM

It’s also a good time to double-check all of the fixtures and installations inside your motorhome, such as the light bulbs and stovetop. Ensure that the electrics aren’t sparking, as this could indicate that they’ve been damaged and cause a fire hazard.

If the water supply has been switched off, reconnect the line. However, be sure that all taps are turned off before doing so. If your campervan or motorhome has been unoccupied for some time, flush the toilet (if you’re lucky enough to have one!) and turn on any faucets for a few minutes to allow both hot and cold water to pass through. This will allow water to flow freely through the RV and allow any airlocks to be released. 

Read: The best UK road trips to do with the kids before they grow up

TYRES

Tyres are one of the first things that you should look at prior to embarking on an adventure, especially if you haven’t driven your campervan for a while, as the pressure might have changed without your noticing. 

With the considerable weight of such vehicles, the tyres of motorhomes and caravans are even more prone to wear and tear than cars. Because of the load of RVs (the Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass is 3500 kg, or 3.5 tonnes) they need to withstand higher pressure, typically inflated to 80psi compared to 40 psi for a car.

First, test the pressure either with a home gauge or a pressure machine at a garage or petrol station, and add more if necessary. Then, look at the tread. If your tyres are noticeably bald, bulging or otherwise deformed, they need to be replaced as a matter of urgency. Currently, a motorhome below 3.5 tonnes should have a legal minimum tread of 1.6mm. It should be noted, however, that once that tread falls below 3mm, handling and braking will be significantly affected.

If you’re not yet tired of tyre talk, then check out our deep dive into wheel health for more tips and tricks.

TAKE A LOOK AT FLUID LEVELS

A quick look under the hood will tell you if you have enough oil, brake fluid and screen wash. If not, top up now before you start your journey. You should also check the anti-freeze mixture, since this tends to accumulate silt over time, impacting on the efficiency of the cooling components. 

The engine oil, gearbox and differential also require a quick assessment; consider an update of oil before embarking on a road trip, particularly for the engine. Fluid perishes the rubber components within the system, so you should make sure you are regularly checking this, too. 

Also be sure to inspect your fuel filter, making sure it’s clean; should the petrol have sat for a lengthy period, it could need changing. While you’re down there rooting around with your clipboard out, have a look for signs of unexplained fluid; there’s always a reason for it and, if left, it could get much worse.

CHECK & TEST YOUR BRAKES

Motorhomes usually come with two RV brake systems; hydraulic and air brake. You’ll need to check both visually, ensuring the cartridge used to absorb excess moisture isn’t damaged in the latter, and that the master cylinder’s fluid levels are topped up in the former.

The best assessment of any vehicle’s brakes, of course, comes from sitting in the driver’s seat, and the easiest way to test your brakes is by using them. Before moving off, press your foot down gently on the pedal; any sense of sponginess or of them being loose should alert you. 

When you’re driving, pay attention to how well your campervan brakes, even trying an emergency stop in a quiet area; your RV should feel firm and pull up without veering drastically to one side or the other. You should also listen for any scraping or squeaking which could be signs that your pads are wearing out. 

CHECK THE LIGHTS

Again, the best way to check your lights is to look at them. Park up, put the hazards and lights on and walk around your campervan to check each light, or ask someone else to help you. You could also use reflections in shop windows. If in doubt, stock up on some spare bulbs. We hope you have a fantastic road trip in your motorhome, campervan, RV, or whatever you want to call it!

1...193194195...392Page 194 of 392

Company

WHO we are
SAY HELLO
ADVERTISING

Read More

Ideal
Travel
Food & Drink
Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Social

We’re an online destination, IDEAL for your daily dose of all things lifestyle, from travel to wellbeing and everything in between.

Copyright © 2026 IDEAL Magazine