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EXPLORE BASINGSTOKE: 8 UNMISSABLE SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS

Editorial Team
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EXPLORE BASINGSTOKE: 8 UNMISSABLE SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS

Nestled in the county of Hampshire and actually its largest town, Basingstoke has a surprising, exciting amount to offer to those who might otherwise assume it’s a just convenient stop on London’s commuter belt.

A vibrant town, brimming with culture, art and history, Basingstoke offers a fine blend of fast-paced fun and scenic countryside, and is ideal for folk looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London or Southampton in search of an enjoyable day out. 

Don’t be fooled by the town’s somewhat lowkey appearance. Whether it’s a whole family affair, a catch up with friends or even a solo journey, there really is something for everyone to enjoy in Doughnut City (named so because of its abundance of roundabouts). With that in mind and if you’re keen to explore further, here are 8 unmissable sights and attractions in Basingstoke.

MILESTONES MUSEUM

Take a step back in time at Hampshire’s famous museum of living history, Milestones. Here, you can discover how people lived in the early to mid 20th century by walking along the tangle of cobbled Victorian streets, shops and buildings in this totally immersive experience. You can even scoop up a 1940s style ration of sweets before swinging by the penny arcade. What fun!

Home to over 200’000 objects made in Hampshire, any visit to Milestones isn’t complete without grabbing your slate board and chalk at the replica Victorian schoolroom. Make sure you take a look at the working printing press after you’ve reclaimed your modern-day sensibilities.

Throughout the year, the museum holds a wide variety of events and exhibitions for the whole family to enjoy. From enjoying a pint at the working pub, the Baverstock Arms, to a play space for under-fives, interactive displays and costumed characters, there is something here for everyone to enjoy.

ODIHAM CASTLE (KNOWN LOCALLY AS KING JOHN’S CASTLE)

One for all the history fanatics, Odiham Castle, a royal residence and former hunting lodge, has seen everything from the signing of the Magna Carta to a French siege involving the de Montforts. Here, an uprising was masterminded and the castle once even held a Scottish King in prison! Phew.

Sitting next to Basingstoke canal and instantly recognisable for its unique octagonal keep, Odiham’s set of flint ruins is the only one of its kind in the whole of the British Isles. The site is currently being restored under Hampshire County and the Heritage Lottery Fund, but it’s open daily, regardless, from 9am to 5pm.

So, grab a picnic, explore the ground’s ancient walkways and imagine castle life back in the day.

EXCITING ESCAPES

Have you got what it takes to beat the clock, unlock the mystery and solve the case? If the answer is yes, then Exciting Escapes is what you are looking for. Ideal for keeping friends and family entertained all afternoon should it be a rainy day in the town (it does see a few), this Basingstoke escape room boasts seven immersive games to choose from.

Whether you journey back in time to the Cold War or you’d rather rescue a Disappearing Duchess, you’ll discover plenty of secrets about the past and things about yourself you never knew, too. If you fancy yourself a detective, love to play puzzles or get a thrill from the chase, get yourself booked in today.

FESTIVAL PLACE SHOPPING CENTRE

Sometimes a spot of retail therapy is not only what the doctor ordered, it’s even what they demanded. Fortunately, Basingstoke’s one-stop premier shopping experience can be found all under one roof at the well-appointed Festival Place Shopping Centre.

Explore over 160 big name brand stores, have a bounce at the Flip Out trampoline park or sit back and relax as you watch one of the newest blockbusters at the Vue’s 10-screen multiplex cinema…the choice is yours. 

A home for food, technology, entertainment and fashion, Festival Place is super convenient if you’re keen to get all of your shopping and entertainment done without having to trek further afield.

Make sure you check out their exciting events calendar to ensure you don’t miss out on their renowned art installations, workshops, fashion showcases and student takeover fun. 

SKIZONE

If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly indoor activity, then check out Skizone. You can learn from the pros how to take on challenging pistes from beginner level and beyond on the fully adjustable and revolving ski slopes. 

Suitable for all ages, Skizone offers a wide range of packages to help you perfect your technique. Right now, it’s opening hours are somewhat reduced; Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10am to 3pm, Mondays and Fridays are between 2pm and 8pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays you can ski from 10am to 6pm.  

Do check back for updated opening hours as coronavirus restrictions lift.

CRABTREE PLANTATION AND BLACK DAM PONDS NATURE RESERVE

An oasis of calm and a haven for local wildlife, Crabtree Plantation and Black Dam Ponds Nature Reserve are some of Basingstoke’s most enchanting beauty spots. Nestled in Basingstoke Common and just a half hour’s walk from the station, you can explore luscious woodland, vast stretches of green space and if you’re lucky, spot a kingfisher as you take a stroll through the parks. 

Whether you want to recharge in the fresh air, enjoy a family picnic or wander through nature, there’s something for everyone at this tranquil, local spot. 

Alternatively, you can tackle the town’s Basing Trail; a 7 mile circular walk that takes in the Crabtree Plantation and Black Dam Ponds Nature Reserve as well as several other scenic sites.

WILLIS MUSEUM AND SAINSBURY GALLERY

Tucked away in the town centre, you will discover unique artefacts from Basingstoke and Deane’s (a small village and part of the same borough council) past at the iconic Willis Museum. The impressive early Victorian building you see today was once the Town Hall and is named after the local antiquarian, clockmaker and former Mayor George Willis. 

With its own fascinating past, including its connection to the original Mote Hall where Jane Austen regularly attended dances (there’s a statue of the famous writer outside), the museum is a fine example of the vast heritage found across the UK and away from the major urban centres.

Right now and until July 18th, the adjacent Sainsbury Gallery is hosting an exhibition of iconic artist Henri Matisse’s work with scissors and paper, featuring 35 pieces of lithography and cut-outs. Booking ahead is essential, as it is for simply attending the museum and gallery right now, due to COVID restrictions.

Do check the venue’s opening hours before visiting. Though subject to change, currently the museum and gallery is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, between 10am and 4pm. 

THE VYNE

The Vyne is so synonymous with Basingstoke that it would be rude not to see it while you’re visiting the town. A ten minute drive north of Basingstoke (or a half hour’s bus journey), in this gorgeous 16th Century Tudor estate and country house you can see incredible stained glass windows and ornate wood carvings, as well as Murano glass and silk wall hangings. 

The Vyne has previously played host to Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Jane Austen and others…will you join them?

While exploring the surrounding Morgaston Woods, which encompass a massive 452 hectares, you can try your hand at den building, geocaching and even test your orienteering skills. 

Within the ancient woodlands, you can see the traces of history come to life if you know where to look. Try and spot the WWII munitions storage site or the remains of the medieval fishing ponds before visiting the purpose-built bird hide. 

Come rain or shine, The Vyne’s jam-packed events calendar and remarkable history and grounds is an unmissable day out. 

Whether you want to step back in time or have an action-packed adventure, Basingstoke is a bright, vibrant town where history and modern-day collide. With a range of unmissable, memorable experiences on offer, you’ll want to come back again and again! 

7 PAINTING & DECORATING JOBS TO TACKLE THIS SUMMER

Editorial Team
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7 PAINTING & DECORATING JOBS TO TACKLE THIS SUMMER

Though it certainly took its time this year, it seems like summer might finally be here. And with the light early mornings and dry, warm evenings (without too much rain – fingers crossed!), now is the perfect time to start thinking about what DIY jobs you are going to tackle.

The more hospitable summer weather offers the perfect opportunity for painting both the interior and exterior of your house, since paint generally requires temperatures on the right side of ‘ambient’ to dry properly and comprehensively. With that in mind, here are 7 painting and decorating jobs to tackle this summer.

MASONRY

Painting exterior walls is one of the largest painting and decorating projects you can undertake, especially if you are planning on painting the full exterior of your house. And in the UK, this is only really possible in June, July and August, quite frankly, when the risk of rain is lower, the days longer, and the temperatures warm enough for paint to dry efficiently.

There are a number of important things to consider when painting exterior walls, the first of which is that it is crucial that you use a high-quality masonry paint that is specifically designed for external surfaces such as brick, pebble dash, concrete and stone. 

You should be aware at this stage that whilst the majority of masonry paints are marketed as having weatherproof abilities, they often allow moisture to soak into the exterior wall, which then causes the paint to peel and flake off. This is why it is highly recommended that you use a waterproof masonry paint that will repel water, thus allowing the paint to stay unaffected by moisture. Because let’s face it, even in summer, the Great British weather can be pretty unpredictable. 

Look for those masonry paints that come with a lifetime guarantee and are self-cleaning, meaning your exterior walls will stay looking pristine for decades.  

When painting your exterior walls, it is important to ensure you allocate enough time to complete the full project. This includes allowing as much as 12 hours before applying the second coat and applying primer if you are painting bare brickwork. While this can seem like a long-winded process, the results you achieve, in terms of both durability and appearance, are very much worth the effort.

SHEDS & FENCES

In gardens across the nation, sheds and fences are just crying out for a fresh lick of paint. Whether it is a worn down, moss covered fence or a shed that sticks out from the rest of the garden, painting exterior wood is an easy and effective way to completely upgrade your outdoor space.

A fantastic way to transform your exterior wood is to use an opaque wood treatment such as Sadolin Superdec. This can be mixed in almost any colour and can be applied to any exterior wood, meaning you can get creative and add some personality to your garden. As a product, it’s highly regarded by professionals, offering a complete colour transformation in just two coats, and plenty of durability to go with it.

There are a number of options for picking a colour to paint your exterior wood. You could opt for a gentle pastel shade for a more natural look, or potentially go for a strong, bold colour that will add a vibrancy to the space. 

Or, why not try and tie in some of the colours from any plants you may have growing, creating a sense of harmony in your garden space, with pale green often being a go-to choice for homeowners. The options are endless and due to the more manageable size of exterior woodwork, it is a perfect thing to tackle first this summer.

DOORWAYS

If you are looking to modernise the aesthetic appeal of your home, one of the best ways to do this is by transforming the look of that ubiquitous UPVC used in the majority of doorways here in the UK, updating the boring white shade that is so often used to an ultramodern anthracite grey or black. Because first impressions count, and the door is a visitor’s first major engagement with your home.

With a primer and a multi-coat paint like Zinsser Allcoat, you can completely change the look of your entrance for a fraction of the cost of buying a whole new door. Yep, if you’re looking to make an instant impact, then transforming your entrance would be a great addition to any summer DIY list.

INTERIOR PAINTING

While interior decorating can be done all year round, summer represents the ideal time, because of the warmer temperatures and quicker drying time, as well as the abundance of natural light, which helps you see the genuine shade of your new paint more clearly. No matter what paint you go for, there are a few things to remember:

  • Always go for a trade paint – most major manufacturers have both a trade and retail version of each of their emulsions. Trade paint is much higher quality, offers better coverage and lasts longer compared to retail paint, and although it costs slightly more, it offers much better value for money. You can buy trade paint from online paint shops such as Painters World who offer free next working day delivery when you spend £50.
  • Use the best quality brushes, rollers & tools you can afford, as this will ensure the best possible finish no matter what you are painting.
  • Always put time into the preparation as any professional decorator will tell you that this is the most important aspect of painting.
  • Always apply paint & primers according to the manufacturer’s instructions as cutting corners will end in disaster.

GO SEVERAL SHADES DARKER

Now, let’s consider shade. Dark interiors are all the rage at the minute, and for good reason. They create a fantastic calm atmosphere, are ultramodern and create a perfect canvas to express yourself with décor. 

Blacks, dark greys, blues and greens all work brilliantly, especially in matt paint emulsions that have little reflection, though do be aware that these colours might be more suited to autumn and winter. Still, there’s no harm in getting ahead, hey?

Read: How to use a bold colour scheme in your living room

SAY BYE TO A WHITE CEILING

The vast majority of us have white ceilings as they give a room a more spacious feel. In fact, it sometimes feels like having a white ceiling is pretty much obligatory in the modern British home…until now, that is! Why not flip things on their head, and use colour for coving and ceilings whilst having a neutral tone on the wall?

This is mostly advised for larger rooms that don’t require white ceilings in order to create the illusion of space and for rooms already blessed with a large amount of natural light. With a dark shade, you can create a cosier and more intimate space, while a bold colour can completely change the energy in a room. Certainly some things to think about during the summer months ahead, don’t you think?

CONSIDER COLOUR BLOCKS

Sometimes we want to add a bit of colour, but simultaneously, are keen not to overwhelm a room. One of the best ways to counteract this is to use colour blocks, which are bursts of colour on a contrasting background. They are incredibly easy to pull off yourself, with just a small tin of paint and a high-quality masking tape required in order to get those razor-sharp lines.

They are particularly effective when neutral tones are used, as these can be layered with each other and integrated throughout the décor, creating a perfectly balanced room.

THE BOTTOM LINE

We hope this has given you some inspiration to get your hands dirty this summer & completely transform both your indoor and outdoor spaces. Good luck everyone!

6 WAYS TO SAVE UP FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE ABROAD

Travel Team
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6 WAYS TO SAVE UP FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE ABROAD

If you sorely missed being able to hop on a flight and head abroad for a holiday, with restrictions being lifted in just a few days, then rest assured, the wait is nearly over. 

While domestic travel restrictions have been relatively lax for a little while now, there is only so much exploring that you can hope to do so close to home. There comes a time when you just need to pack up and head out on an adventure abroad, and it seems like that time is now.

That’s if you can afford it, that is.

Travel abroad is – and always will be – something that you will need to prepare for financially. From the cost of transport and plane tickets to accommodation and food, you will need to have a bit of money saved up. But with the pandemic having a significant impact on household earnings, for some, affording that much needed holiday is going to be harder this year.

That’s not to say it can’t be done. Here are 6 ways to save up for your next adventure abroad.

EAT IN TO HELP OUT 

Here at IDEAL, we believe there’s nothing better than a good meal out with friends, family, or even dining solo. With hospitality open once again, and loved ones permitted to socialise, it feels like the spending hasn’t stopped since the lockdown drawbridge was lowered. 

If you now find yourself nursing a pretty massive hangover and an empty wallet, then this is certainly going to impact your holiday savings. 

For now, try to park those pub visits and restaurant meals, keeping that money back for your holiday kitty.

That doesn’t mean the socialising has to stop entirely; hell, it’s been more than a year since we could do so properly, after all. If your friends invite you out for a meal – why not suggest something cheaper like a picnic in the park instead? Or, invite them round for a potluck dinner where everyone brings a dish and a bottle of wine. Cheers!

TELL YOUR FRIENDS YOU’RE ON A BUDGET 

Speaking of which, one of the hardest challenges of saving money is letting your friends know that you’re on a spending diet.

Honestly is the best policy, here. Simply say to them “I’d love to but I’m saving for a holiday’’, or suggest meeting up for something equally fun but more importantly, free. Fortunately, London has so many brilliant things to do that shouldn’t cost you a penny. Check out a whole 101 of them here.

GIVE YOUR EXPENDITURE AN AUDIT

If you want to increase the amount you’re setting aside every month for your holiday, take another look at your budget and see whether there is any unnecessary expenditure you can cut. 

If you have active subscriptions or memberships that you no longer use, for example, cancelling them is an easy way to reduce your budget and increase the amount you’re able to save.  Similarly, switching to a new mobile phone contract or utility provider can save you a surprising amount while scouring the market for the cheapest insurance is another way to cut costs. 

Don’t only look at the monthly outgoings. There are things you can cut back on daily that will make a difference, too. Most people will tell you that the key to saving more in the long term is to start with small adjustments and cutbacks – do you really need that coffee from your favourite coffee shop or that ice cream in the park? With enough persistence, this approach can really help you to save for your next adventure abroad. 

BUY USED

Costly emergencies that you haven’t financially prepared for can happen at any time. Perhaps the washing machine or dishwasher breaks. Maybe your hoover stops working. Or, your car is on its last legs (wheels!) and in need of a replacement.

Instead of going out and replacing these major investment items with the newest models out, you might find you can save some money by instead buying used items where possible. For instance, a large purchase, like a car, shouldn’t have to break the bank. 

The experts from the RWC Motor Company, who sell used cars Suffolk, suggest you should prioritise those dealers who have signed up the AA Dealer Promise, to ensure that your car doesn’t require further investment soon after you buy it. The promise provides a minimum of 6 months MOT on all vehicles, road tests the vehicle to ensure it’s in good nick, and many more pledges.   

OPEN A HOLIDAY SAVINGS ACCOUNT

If you struggle to save, or find it difficult to exact rapid change to your daily habits, then consider the bigger picture and open a holiday savings account, sometimes referred to as a Christmas Club. Such an account receives routine deposits as a percentage of your paycheck, accruing a little interest along the way and keeping that money safe until your holiday. 

It should be noted that such accounts, when done contractually via your bank, may charge you for early withdrawal. As such, it might be a better idea to arrange such payments in a more ‘casual’ way, such as via Monzo’s ‘Create a Pot’ feature.

MAKE SOME EXTRA MONEY 

Almost everyone has a few items that they don’t use that could be enjoyed by someone else. It could be clothes you no longer wear, furniture that no longer suits your style,

As long as your items are in good condition (or in the case of furniture, salvageable), you can most definitely sell them to someone else. As the saying goes, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure, so if you’ve got something that no longer has a place in your home, take photos of it and sell it.

On that subject, check out these 5 IDEAL ways to earn a little extra money today. You won’t regret it! 

6 OF THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN PROVENCE, FRANCE

Editorial Team
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6 OF THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN PROVENCE, FRANCE

Situated in southern-eastern France and bordering Italy, Provence breathes in the scent of tourism every year. Characterised by its rolling hills, verdant vineyards, lavender fields, and Roman ruins, Provence boasts a unique geographical position, on the Mediterranean yet surrounded by the Southern Alps and the River Rhone.

All of this stunning, diverse scenery, combined with some truly exciting cities, means you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained in the region, whether you’re visiting for a weekend city break in the South of France or a longer stay encompassing the entire country.

If you’re looking to fill your itinerary, we have got you covered. When you visit Provence, here are 6 of the best places.

ARLES

If you have grown up reading literature or you’re an avid student of history, you wouldn’t want to skip Arles on your holiday to Provence. The place is filled with Roman ruins, including Arles Amphitheatre, the Roman Theatre of Arles, the Roman Forum and the Alyscamps. Incredibly, some of these monuments date back to the 1st century B.C.

Because of this, the old town of Arles, where you’ll find the majority of these Roman sites, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also find underground crypts and the Thermes de Constantine, the ruins of ancient baths with a fantastic view of the Rhone, in the city. 

Art fanatics, too, should consider Arles a must-visit because of Van Gogh’s period of artistic freedom when he lived in the town, on the banks of Rhone River. Here, he painted some of his most celebrated works, including Bedroom in Arles. You can visit the Foundation Vincent Van Gogh Arles, a museum dedicated to his life and paintings.

AIX-EN-PROVENCE

Aix-en-Provence is known for the cultural heritage it offers to its tourists. In simple words, the city is one of the most elegant cities in France. From its beautiful boulevards to pretty cafes, everything about the city feels sophisticated and at ease with itself.

Cours Mirabeau is arguably the city’s most famous attraction, a gorgeous walking street lined by trees on either side creating a picturesque tunnel effect. Here, locals congregate to socialise, dine, sip coffee and be seen, and it’s a charming spectacle.

Moreover, Aix-en-Provence also served as a muse to the famous impressionist painter, Paul Cézanne. At the Musee Granet, you’ll find original pieces from him, Picasso and others.

GORDES

Situated at the top of a hill, Gordes is arguably the most beautiful village in all of France. Built on the foothills of the Vaucluse Mountains, the village is mostly known for its labyrinth of cobblestone streets (known as calades) and the view that the village provides from the top of the hill, which is nothing short of spectacular. 

The village has attracted many artists in the past, such as Marc Chagall, Andre Lhote and Jean Deyrolle, and Gordes retains a bohemian air to this day, with several small art galleries nestled in its winding streets. 

LAVENDER FIELDS 

A trip to Provence isn’t complete without experiencing the region’s lavender fields, with their sweet fragrance and striking appearance at its peak during the flowering season between mid June and early August.

Around an hour’s drive from Aix-en-Provence, the Valensole Plateau reveals dozens of lavender fields as you drive its slopes. Alternatively, the Luberon Valley offers some incredible vistas of this natural spectacle. 

Finally, the town of Sault, an hour and a half north of Aix-en-Provence, is another prime location to see the region’s lavender fields in full, beautiful bloom, with the added bonus that Sault’s lavender season stretches a little later into early August. 

DRIVING THE FRENCH RIVIERA

Head south from Provence and in less than two years you’ll reach the French Riviera, one of the most iconic stretches of water in the world. Whilst many choose to experience the world famous French Riviera on a yacht or sailing boat, the Mediterranean coast of Southeastern France is perhaps even more spectacular when driven, its winding roads offering scenic vistas, charming villages and world class eateries.

Away from the more cliched Cannes, Saint Tropez and Monaco, there are some less flashy, more fashionable stops. A must-visit along the way is the village of Eze, a picturesque medieval town perched high above the coast. With its cobbled streets, breathtaking vistas, and exquisite restaurants, Eze offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and luxury.

Anyway, rather than keep you from setting off on your journey, we’ll redirect you here, to our 4 luxury holiday ideas in Alpes-Maritimes, Southern France. 

L’ISLE-SUR-LA-SORGUE

The tangle of canals and branches of the Sorgue River have led to L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue being nicknamed the Venice of Provence. We might argue it’s even more beautiful. Actually, the town is even more famous for its weekly antiques market and twice yearly International Antiques Fair – if you’re visiting, do factor in some extra spending money!

HOW TO CELEBRATE YOUR BIRTHDAY IN STYLE

Editorial Team
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HOW TO CELEBRATE YOUR BIRTHDAY IN STYLE

Your birthday only comes around once a year, and it is the perfect time to celebrate with your nearest and dearest. Celebrating and commemorating you and your life is bound to be something that your friends and family are excited about. As with every year, you need to make a decision about what you want to do to celebrate your special day, and this means getting your thinking cap on and coming up with a few ideas that you feel will work well.

Making sure you choose something that you are going to enjoy and that gives you maximum opportunity to see all your loved ones would be the best idea. This is something that you need to plan for, and there are plenty of great ideas that you can make the most of moving forward. Try to make sure you come up with ideas that will help you when it comes to celebrating your birthday in style. Check out these fab ideas that you should consider when looking to celebrate your birthday in style this year!

PICNIC

A picnic would be a wonderfully low-key and family-friendly way of celebrating your big day. It’s something that allows you to make the most of the lovely weather, and spend some time outdoors. The great thing with a picnic is that people can come and go as they please, and there is very little pressure. It’s a great option for a fun and cheap way of gathering your friends and family together, and having a great time. It’s also something that can take place in the day time, and then be followed by a night out. This maximises the number of people who can attend, and this makes for a more flexible event in the process too. 

COCKTAILS

Make sure you focus on being able to enjoy yourself and have a good time as much as possible. And if an evening bash is the preference then a fairly low-key cocktail evening would be ideal. This is a great opportunity for you and your friends to hit the town and enjoy some post-lockdown drinks as normalcy resumes across many towns and cities. There are a lot of things that play a part in this process, and it’s vital that you do as much as possible to make the best of this. There are a lot of things that you need to do to enjoy a lovely cocktail party for your birthday, and this is definitely something that should be at the top of your list of options. 

HOST A PARTY

Of course, kicking it old school and hosting a birthday party could be on the agenda for a lot of people. This is a great way of being able to play host as well as being the birthday boy/girl, and you can even do it from home if you want to make it an easier process to plan. Hosting a dinner party would be a great way of being able to enjoy a smart and sophisticated birthday experience, and one that you and your friends will remember over the coming years. This is something that you need to try to plan out and enjoy as much as you can, and this is a great option for helping you have an excellent birthday experience.

ACTIVITY DAY

These days more and more people are enjoying the appeal and benefit of an activities day. Being able to go out and do something fun and exhilarating often means more to people than simply receiving possessions. Because people are starting to favor activities and experiences, this is definitely something you should look into. And, with more and more industries opening back up and operating as normal again, there is much more choice than there might have been 6 months ago. Think about the kind of activity you would like to do, and who you think may want to join you in doing it as well. Then plan something out that you can all make the most of, and really work to trying to improve your birthday experience as much as you can.

GO FOR DINNER

Perhaps you would like to have a more intimate and low-key affair with your family or partner and simply go for dinner to celebrate your birthday. This is a great way of having a really loving or romantic birthday experience, and gets you used to going out for dinner again after what might seem so long. You have to make sure you think about some of the best places you could go for dinner, and this is something you will need to plan out, book, and prepare in advance in order to make the most of it right now. Many restaurants will have some kinds of extras for birthday guests, and this is something you should look into in advance before booking your table.

MURDER MYSTERY

Murder Mystery games are always great fun, and this is one of the cool things that you and your friends can enjoy to add a bit of suspense and intrigue to the evening. Being able to adopt a new role and a different personality for an evening is a fun and exciting adventure, and a great way of celebrating your birthday as well as possible. Choosing the perfect murder mystery game can have a massive impact on your birthday, and is a great way of helping add a bit of uniqueness to your birthday experience. This is something that you should be looking to sort out as soon as possible in order to get the best possible birthday experience. 

VIDEO GAME NIGHT

Another excellent idea that you can use when it comes to improving your birthday experience, and having a video games night is one of the most impressive ways of being able to achieve this. You have to try to do the best things that you can in order to improve this process, and video games have become one of the best ways of socializing with your friends for your birthday right now. There are plenty of ideas that you can use here, and it depends on the game you choose to play. This is something that can be enjoyed either in person or virtually, making it one of the best ideas you can use that will help you to have a sociable and memorable birthday.

THEATRE SHOW

As more and more areas of the economy start to reopen again, there are more and more opportunities that you can benefit from. One of the best ways of being able to achieve this is to attend a theatre show. Seeing a live performance for the first time in ages is bound to be an emotional and unforgettable experience, and this is something that can really improve your birthday experience. Try to make sure you do a bit of research here and  find out the best shows that are available to watch. The theatre is a fun and sophisticated choice for a memorable birthday night out.

ESCAPE ROOM

Escape rooms are always a fun and interesting way of testing your initiative and powers of deduction. Fancy yourself a bit of a detective? Fancy a fun and exciting experience involving teamwork, logic and powers of deduction? If this seems to be right up your street then you should definitely look into doing an escape room. There are plenty of different themed rooms that you can choose depending upon the sort of things that you enjoy, and this is something you have to make the most of as much as possible. Escape rooms can be a thrilling and adrenaline filled way of celebrating your birthday with friends, and this is something that you should try to make a reality this year.

SEE LIVE MUSIC

There are a lot of great things that you will have the option to do again soon that haven’t been doable in the past, and seeing live music again is one of them. If you are passionate about live music then this is one of the best and most enjoyable birthday experiences you can have. Try to think about the best things that you can do that will improve your process and take things to the next level in terms of the experience you have. It could be watching your favorite artist perform live, or it could be attending a festival or live performance. Whichever it is, seeing live music again can be a powerful thing, as well as a great way of spending your birthday.

As you can see, there is plenty you can do to keep you entertained and amused on your special day. And with more and more restrictions being lifted on what you are able to do, and society starting to get back to a degree of normality, this is a great time to be exploring options for birthday celebrations once again. Hopefully you will find this list to be inspiring and will come up with some excellent ways of being able to celebrate your big day in the best possible way.

10 THINGS FIRST TIMERS SHOULD KNOW BEFORE VISITING THE BIG APPLE

Travel Team
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10 THINGS FIRST TIMERS SHOULD KNOW BEFORE VISITING THE BIG APPLE

You’ve heard the song, right? So you already know that it’s the concrete jungle where dreams are made of, and that there’s nothing you can’t do? Grammatically correct or otherwise, it’s a fine introduction to the place…

Yep, we’re talking about New York City, the Big Apple…

We see it in the movies and hear about it in the news, and we all want to take a bite out of it. It’s the home to artists, movie stars, dancers, wannabes, dreamers and more, and it’s one of the busiest and most thrilling places on earth.

Whether you are in awe of the giant buildings or the intricate, modern architecture, the vast greenery of Central Park or the sheer variety of shopping options and restaurants, New York City is ripe for the eating. If this is your first time in the city, then this one’s for you; here are 10 things first timers should know before visiting the Big Apple.

ENTRY REQUIRES A VISA OR ESTA

With flights from London taking around 7 and a half hours, the Big Apple is an incredibly exciting, surprisingly accessible place to enjoy a long weekend away. That said, you can’t just book a last minute flight and swan in to the city at short notice – you’re going to need to arrange either a visa or an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) first.

An Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) allows people to travel to the United States without necessarily requesting the traditional non-immigrant visitor visa.

An ESTA allows individuals from specific countries (including the UK) to travel to the United States without obtaining a visa, via the country’s Visa Waiver Program.

Should you be travelling for more than 90 days or the purpose of your visit is not for business or short term tourism, you will need a visa rather than an ESTA.

It should also be noted that, right now, some states in the US require a period of quarantine on arrival into the country. You may well have to do the same when returning to the UK, though this looks likely to change in the coming weeks to allow double-vaccinated UK citizens entry back into the country without having to isolate. Check the latest government guidelines at the time of travel for the most up-to-date information on this.

YOU’RE GOING TO NEED MORE TIME THAN YOU THINK

Yep, we realise we just suggested you could enjoy a long weekend here, and you definitely could, but it’s still important to know that New York City is a heaving, hectic city and getting around takes time.

Have you planned to be in the city for a couple of days? Double it! A 20 minute cab journey, as predicted by Google Maps, may well take you double that time – so give yourself plenty of it if you’re keen to arrive to that dinner reservation or Broadway show on time.

NEVER GET ON AN EMPTY SUBWAY CAR

Seasoned city dwellers will pack themselves like sardines into the subway to get where they need to be…

But if you think you’ve hit the space jackpot with an empty subway car, you’d be wrong. Natives to New York know that the only time a subway car is empty is if there is a problem, perhaps with the air-conditioning being broken or a particularly offensive mess festering within. Though it might be counterintuitive, it’s better to avoid these empty subway cars in favour of those a little more populated. 

WALK – AND DON’T STOP

In urban centres the world over, residents move fast and with purpose, and New York City is no exception. Tourists in the city are instantly recognisable as being those who stand on the pavement staring at all the sights, and it’s the locals and business natives who are hustling and bustling to get where they need to be. Cities across the globe ebb and flow most effortlessly when people understand the unwritten rules of movement – as in, keep going no matter what. Do the same to fit in.

LEARN THE TIPPING ETIQUETTE

If you’re visiting from England, chances are you won’t be au fait with tipping etiquette in the Big Apple. Here in the US, doing so is part and parcel of daily life. The general rule of thumb is that 15-20% is normal for tipping restaurants, cabs, bellhops and anyone else who has provided a service – because they’re not paid a minimum wage. Always account for tipping when you are working out your holiday budget.

Read: Local lingo: 8 tips for Brits moving to New York

GET ON THE EAST RIVER FERRY AT LEAST ONCE

You cannot go to NYC without riding the East River ferry and seeing New York City from a very different angle. Tickets are just $2.75, with the Staten Island ferry completely free – take it to enjoy an incredible vantage point for seeing the Statue of Liberty with Manhattan as a backdrop. Lovely stuff.

OTHER FREE THINGS TO DO

New York City is expensive, sure, but keeping costs low can be done. From the passes that allow you to skip the wait to the donation-based museums, you can get a lot seen and done without too much money being spent.

Speaking of fantastic Big Apple entertainment that you don’t have to pay for, The Museum of Modern Art (MOMO), one of the best of its kind in the world, offers free entry on Friday evenings (4pm to 8pm). 

Strolling the High Line also won’t cost you a dime, and gives amazing views of the city, the opportunity for some stargazing and people watching. Great stuff. And of course, a stroll around Central Park or across Brooklyn Bridge needs no ticket and gets you well and truly acquainted with some of the most famous landmarks in the city.

LEARN HOW TO HAIL A CAB

We feel like we’ve mentioned cabs a lot, but they’re an essential part of the New York City experience; as such, you need to learn how to hail one. It’s not like you see in the movies. If a cab doesn’t have their light on, it’s not available. If it does, it’s fair game for you step out and hail one a la SJP in Sex in the City.

DON’T GET HUNG UP ON TIMES SQUARE

Yes, the lights are pretty spectacular, but you don’t have to spend all your time in Times Square. Times Square is going to be a bucket list item for many, sure, but there is so much more to the City and your trip shouldn’t centre solely on there.

LOOK FAR BEYOND MANHATTAN

Manhattan is never going to lose its magnificence and history, but there is so much more to New York than Manhattan. In fact, New York City comprises five distinct boroughs; the big M we already mentioned, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx. Each has something very different and exciting to offer, and you’d be narrowing your experience not to visit each on your first taste of the Big Apple.

We hope you have a great time and do send us some photos!

6 SURPRISING WAYS TO DE-STRESS

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6 SURPRISING WAYS TO DE-STRESS

A little stress in life – whether you’re watching Gareth’s boys beat Italy on penalties in the Euros final or waiting to take an important exam – is an inevitability. 

It’s simply impossible to go through life without experiencing it at all, and frankly, a little stress can even be good for us, in the right measures and when channelled appropriately.

But when stress becomes more pervasive, permanent and difficult to handle, it can lead to discomfort and further health problems, such as anxiety, depression, high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues. 

If you feel as though your stress levels are getting the better of you, it’s important that you have some healthy coping mechanisms that allow you to wind down, take your mind off the pressures of everyday life, and your foot off the pedal. 

Sure, you probably already know about the benefits of meditation and the power of exercise, but here are a few strategies that you might not have considered; our 6 surprising ways to de-stress.

KEEP YOUR HOUSE TIDY

A clear mind starts with a clear space. 

And if your house is cluttered from head to toe – or rather, floor to ceiling – then it’s unlikely you’ll be able to think with the clarity required to keep stress and worry at bay. 

It’s great to have a daily or weekly routine that helps you keep on top of things, but occasionally you may need to invest in a little extra help. For instance, you can probably sort out that pile of clothes in your room (you know the one) by yourself, but that wine stain that’s hiding underneath? You know, that reminder of a messier time in your life? The experts at Advanced Chem-Dry recommend a carbonated carpet solution, which ‘’effervesces and the bubbles penetrate deep into the carpet pile’’ – sometimes, professional solutions are the only way when cleaning.

They say that your home is your castle, your oasis of calm and where the heart is, but if those arteries are clogged, that oasis dry and that castle crumbling, then it’s no surprise you’re seeking stress relief tips online. Keep your place tidy, and a clarity of thought and perspective will naturally follow.

STOP TRYING TO GET AHEAD

You’re stressed with work, so you do a little extra to try and get ahead, right? Sure we’ve all been there. But do you really need to be clocking an extra four hours’ overtime on a Friday night?  

Not only is overworking simply not good for you, but sitting in front of the TV with your laptop isn’t making you any more productive – oh, unless you’re reading IDEAL magazine from your sofa, of course.

Free time is essential for proper rest and relaxation, and without it, your brain is constantly running on burnout mode without reprieve. It’s why you must never cheat yourself out of your much-needed wind-down time – you’ll be all the better for it.

SELF LOVE

Now that the calendar is cleared, there’s no shame in enjoying the pleasure of your own company. Yep, we mean that you should avail yourself of some of the stress relief benefits of regular sex by practicing self love, in both the most euphemistic and literal sense. Indeed, masturbation releases dopamine and oxytocin, which can reduce stress causing cortisol levels, and as such, many include it in their ‘self care routines’…

RECONNECT WITH THE NATURAL WORLD

The UK’s leading mental health charity, Mind, recommend reconnecting with the natural world in order to reduce stress and improve your wellbeing. And honestly, after a year of largely being stuck indoors, this is music to our ears.

They go on to list several ways in which nature can benefit your mental health, including mood improvement, reduction of stress and anger, and helping you feel more relaxed. And that’s what you’re here for, right? 

Reconnecting with the natural world needn’t mean undertaking an outward bounds, 7 day hike which Bear Grylls would struggle to complete, but rather, simply making the time to spend a few moments outdoors each day. Now the weather is warming up and the evenings are getting lighter, why not endeavour to take your lunch break in a park or enjoy a brisk walk after work through some greenery? Research published by Cornell University in 2020 found that even 10 minutes in a natural setting can lessen the effects of both physical and mental stress. Every little helps!

A HEALTHY DIET & VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS

Your diet also plays a crucial role in mindset management, and there are several foods which have been linked to stress reduction. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, via Everyday Health, foods containing Omega-3 have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Avocados, oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, nuts and seeds all contain generous amounts of the stuff. If you feel like you’re not getting enough Omega-3 in your diet, through conventional means, supplements are available.

Fermented foods high in probiotics and healthy gut bacteria, such as kimchi, sauerkraut, yoghurt and miso, may also help relieve stress; no wonder they call your gut the ‘second mind’. Again, supplements are available should you not relish the rich, complex tang of such foods.

Read: 6 tips for managing stress through food

THE BOTTOM LINE

Though tried, tested and GP recommended stress relief strategies are still the best way to manage feelings of pressure and tension, we hope you’ve found some inspiration for a holistic approach to managing your mood above.

5 OF THE BEST CARAVAN HOLIDAYS IN CORNWALL UPDATED FOR 2021

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5 OF THE BEST CARAVAN HOLIDAYS IN CORNWALL UPDATED FOR 2021

Caravans, Cornwall, the coast, cod, cakes (and scones)…has there ever been a more perfect set of ingredients for a holiday?

With the fresh sea breeze in your hair and a Cornish sea shanty in your heart, there’s no better place to enjoy the spoils of the British countryside and the charms of its quaint towns than Cornwall. And there’s no better way to enjoy these spoils than in a caravan.

Not only does this give you the chance to sleep out under the stars, but nothing beats the community spirit and sense of camaraderie you get to experience while on a caravan holiday. In Kernow (the Cornish term for the county), you’ll never get bored…with activities and adventure available at every turn, and well appointed caravan parks a feature of the South West Peninsula.

If you’re looking for a staycation later this year and this sounds like your sort of thing, then here are 5 of the best caravan holidays in Cornwall updated for 2021.  

STREAM VALLEY HOLIDAY PARK, PENZANCE

Stream Valley Holiday Park is a one-of-a-kind destination that you should visit this year. The park is well-kept, as are the roads that connect the park to its many adjacent attractions. You don’t have to be concerned about negotiating unkempt paths here.

Water hook-ups, properly serviced plots, and hard standing are all available at the park, too, ensuring that your caravan stands level. 

With the Cornish coastline just a short walk away, the town of St. Ives 8 miles from the park and Flambards Theme Park a half hour drive, there’s no chance of getting bored here.

NEWQUAY HOLIDAY PARKS

If you want to be close to popular tourist locations, you will be spoiled for options in Newquay. When looking for the best destinations for caravan holidays in Cornwall, Newquay is arguably top of the list. It offers a range of incredible entertainment options, from beaches to well appointed resorts, and parks with pretty much anything you would want for a complete caravan holiday.

Newquay Holiday Park is one of the nicest spots because of the numerous amenities available. Some of these include three outdoor heated swimming pools and a 9-hole pitch and putts course. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s also Costa Coffee, a bar and grill, an ice cream parlour, and, of course, poolside beverages. One of the pools includes a 200 ft water slide that will amuse kids and adults alike! 

A 10-minute drive will take you to the famed Fistral Beach. As a result, after you’ve got your fill of the camp, you can drive down to the beach and have a stroll or recline on the sand. When it comes to everything you could need as a caravan owner, the park provides it all. Because of this, you should make reservations as soon as possible because this location is highly sought after.

QUARRYFIELD CARAVAN PARK, CRANTOCK

If you’re planning a tour of a few caravan sites, then Quarryfield Caravan Park, in Crantock near Newquay, should definitely be on your list. The site sits on a graceful headland overlooking Crantock Beach and the Gannel Estuary, with superb views of the ocean from on high.

Its location close to several beaches around Cornwall’s north coast is among the things that make the site one of the best this year. If you’re keen to explore the surrounding area, Newquay is about a 10-minute drive from the caravan site. If you’d rather remain on site, that’s fine, too; there’s plenty to do, including a boathouse where you can row yourself across the estuary. Simply gorgeous.

When visiting Crantock, you should have your camera with you to ensure that you capture every moment. There is no need to be concerned about whether your type of caravan is catered for; the park welcomes all types. There are also static caravans on site for hire. 

PENTEWAN SANDS HOLIDAY PARK

Are you a fan of opulence and refinement? Not two words commonly associated with caravan holidays, we realise, but then Pentewan Sands Holiday Park is anything but common. 

You’ll find the Pentewan Sands Holiday Park in southwest Cornwall, located right on the beach – hence the ‘sands’ in the name. There are over 150 pitches in the park, all of which are nicely spaced to give you plenty of room to have fun and appreciate everything the park has to offer. The Park contains a privately owned beach that is only a three-minute walk away, one of its unique features and not something you’ll find at many campsites and caravan parks in the UK.

When you go to the beach, there are plenty of things to keep you engaged. In fact, Pentewan beach is known for its provision of water sports. For starters, you can enjoy water skiing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming. You can take a boat for a more intimate experience with the water, or simply rent bikes and travel the shoreline at your leisure. 

In terms of your day-to-day caravan living, there are bathrooms, a laundromat, and Wi-Fi, among other amenities, all of which are available for you to use as you see fit.

PADSTOW TOURING PARK AND HOLIDAY VILLAGE

Padstow Touring Park and Holiday Village is distinguished by its sense of elegance; it’s a very classy affair indeed. Carrying 5 star holiday park status, the facilities are spotless and pitches well spaced, with the grounds groomed and tidy. 

On site, there’s a children’s play park and sandpit, and just a ten minute drive away is Hawker’s Cove, a gorgeous beach just beyond Padstow town. Alternatively, Trevone Bay is equally stunning, and is a pleasant 45 minute walk away. Pack your walking boots and savour the scenic stroll!

In Padstow town itself, you’ll find some superb restaurants, including Rick Stein’s flagship Seafood Restaurant. If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, then Paul Ainsworth at Number 6 is simply superb. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Though the recent global pandemic has rendered international travel tricky this summer, the UK, and more specifically, Cornwall has so much to offer those with itchy feet who are keen to travel once again.

6 THINGS YOU NEED TO PACK FOR A WINTER HOLIDAY IN NEW YORK

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6 THINGS YOU NEED TO PACK FOR A WINTER HOLIDAY IN NEW YORK

We all have images of NYC as a sunny, vibrant place, where the sunglasses are always on and the guns are always out. Banish this assumption from your mind at once. Though summers in the Big Apple can certainly be sweltering, come winter, the cold in New York City is real.

For a first timer, these extremities can be pretty shocking, and from December to March, the weather can bite hard, owing to the city’s position so close to the North Atlantic Ocean via the Upper and Lower Bay. This is particularly accentuated through strong, bracing winds, which can get lodged in your bones even through the thickest of jackets. 

Yep, we realise it’s summer now, but after so long without a holiday, now that things are opening up again, we’re playing the long game. Should you be planning a Christmas getaway or a New Year’s treat in the City That Never Sleeps, then it’s essential that you get your packing right to ensure it’s a comfortable, shiver-free experience. To help you with that, here are 6 things you need to pack for a winter holiday in New York.

A THICK COAT

For us, a hooded coat is non-negotiable on a cold weather trip to New York, essential for protecting yourself from the elements. That said, hoods can be annoying at times, so go for a coat with a detachable hood, allowing you to customise your coat according to the weather.

New Yorkers are known for their stylish fashion choices, so you’ve got to make sure your coat is street style ready. Bubble coats or puffer jackets are the coats of choice for many locals – you’ll see all types of styles, patterns and colours in New York, from traditional black to shiny metallic, leopard print to striped. Not only do they look cool, but they’re one of the more adept jackets at keeping that biting wind at bay.

Fangyaun, manufacturers of a particularly fine wholesale bubble coat, tell us to look out for a jacket that gives you great insulation while being breathable. They recommend prioritising a quilted interior. 

Uniqlo is one of our favourite places for an affordable down-hooded coat, with the Japanese clothing brand offering remarkable quality for the price.   

A CROSS BODY BAG OR BELT BAG

Carrying a bag around with you on a winter city break is a pain. Massive jackets are not natural bedfellows with big bags slung over the shoulder, and it’s hard to comfortably rest one on your shoulders should you be all wrapped up. 

If you do need to carry around a bag, we think a crossbody bag is perfectly suited to winter wear. Bigger bags are also a pain on the subway, causing consternation from fellow commuters and potentially leaving you prone to theft. Instead, a crossbody bag helps you sashay between commuters with elegance.

Bum bags, fanny packs, belt bags…call them what you will…but they represent another ideal choice of bag for carrying around New York in the winter. You can wear it under your jacket, crossways around your chest or clinched in the middle. You can even look pretty stylist when doing so. According to the Zoe report, “The trendiest way to style a sporty sling bag right now is around the outside of your puffer coat. It’s an easy-access option that makes the bag the hero of your outfit”. We couldn’t agree more.

SENSIBLE WALKING SHOES 

Salt trucks and snow plows are a common sight during the deepest recesses of New York’s winter. The city’s frigid temperatures mean that slippery ice patches can be found at every turn of the heel, and if it’s snowed, then muddy puddles will likely follow in its footsteps.

If you’re planning on exploring New York on foot, you’re going to need a good pair of sturdy shoes to avoid any sidewalk slips. Fortunately, walking shoes that keep things light, such as those made by North Face, Vega Venturi or New Balance, are currently very much on trend, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice style when seeking slip-resistance.

If you’re dressing up, wear a pair of low block heels, helping you cope with those infamous New York sidewalk grates with ease. Alternatively, Hunter’s original block heel Chelsea wellies manage to strike that balance between a protective wet weather shoe and something you’d actually feel happy to be seen in.

Whatever you go for, be sure to break your boots in so your feet remain comfortable and blister free. 

ALL THE WINTER ACCESSORIES 

If you’re looking to step out in style in New York but remain warm, you’re going to need some stylish winter accessories to help you do just that. 

For a fashionable jaunt in the cold, we’re fans of faux fur bucket hats, which bring a playful air to the sometimes serious streets of the city. And a pair of leather mittens never go out of fashion, don’t you think? 

BASE LAYERS 

The layout of New York, with its huge skyscrapers and streets which stretch for miles, creates a phenomenon called the ‘wind tunnel effect’. As Architecture Lab explain, “The wind tunnel effect in New York City is basically a situation where air is being converged into a very small space and that leads to stronger winds.” 

In other words, the wind seems windier and feels colder because of the makeup of the architecture in the city, and will cut right through even the cosiest of coats.  Don’t be complacent in the Big Apple; be prepared for these winds by wearing some base layers underneath that quilted coat we recommended.

Indeed, a good set of thermals is essential for a winter in New York, working by trapping warm air close to your body and providing much needed insulation to keep things toasty from within. 

TOILETRIES FOR DRY SKIN 

With freezing temperatures outside and the central heating turned up to the max in shopping malls, restaurants and theatres , cases of chapped lips,  dry hands and dehydrated skin are inevitable on a winter holiday to New York. 

Pack your toiletries with this in mind. Remember to use an SPF moisturiser, as winter sun is just as capable at burning you as the brighter summer version. We’re massive fans of Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Skin protectant on cold weather holidays – a cold weather skincare classic that restores, calms and helps relieve chapped, cracked and dry skin. Oh, and a decent supplier of gentle, hydrating, organic moisturiser is a must on any winter trip where you’ll be swapping cold conditions outdoors for central heating within. 


If you’re considering making your visit to the Big Apple a little more permanent, then check out these 5 IDEAL tips for adjusting to life in New York City.

HOW TO PREP AND DESIGN YOUR GARDEN OASIS IN 5 STEPS

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HOW TO PREP AND DESIGN YOUR GARDEN OASIS IN 5 STEPS

Gardens are essential green spaces that are private, and in some cases, even intimate. They can reflect how you want to engage with the outdoors. You can transform them into a wild garden that brings in the best of natural beauty, or you can curate an outdoor space perfect for dining and partying. Regardless of what approach and what you want out of your garden, you need to go in with a smart plan. 

There are many ways to save when it comes to landscaping and gardening. If money is no object, you can hire a professional who will design ideas based on what you want and then work to bring that vision to life from start to finish. However, if you are on a budget, this guide will help you learn how to prep, design, and transform your garden into the oasis you deserve in 5 steps. 

FIRST, PREP YOUR SPACE 

The first step is to remove what is currently there. If there are some elements, like the patio or trees, that you want to keep, simply avoid these areas and remove the rest. The amount of work necessary to prep your space will depend entirely on what is currently there. If it is some old construction materials, or even just weeds, then your work is going to be significantly less than if there is a rotting shed in the back that you need to get rid of, or if the space had previously been used as a disposal area instead of hiring a skip. 

Understand the scope of your project, and then choose the right removal service. Small amounts of waste can be taken away with a skip, and large amounts require a waste clearance company to come and collect it, load it, and then sort it. If you do have professionals do this work for you, then make sure that they are registered with the Environmental Agency and that the waste from your garden will be properly sorted, so you don’t need to worry about separating compostable waste from things like old building materials yourself.  

NEXT, TAKE MEASUREMENTS 

Once the area is clear, it’s time to take measurements. Measurements will help you design the space to scale on a piece of paper or even with a design software tool. You don’t need to be too precise, of course, because the general layout is often enough to help direct your own gardening efforts and is a good starting point if you intend to hire experts for certain jobs. 

YOU MAY NEED A SURVEY 

If you intend to keep building to a minimum and are primarily looking to upgrade your garden space with plants, you often don’t need to survey the area. However, if you intend to add things like a pool, an in-ground fountain, or a shed, you will. This isn’t just to make sure that you are adhering to building codes; it is also to ensure that there is nothing underground you need to work around. 

Even when it comes to planting, you need to be careful. There is leeway, of course, but always check what the rules are and what will apply to your property before you start investing in big-budget plant purchases. 

FOCUS ON STRUCTURAL ADDITIONS NEXT 

If you intend to add a patio, a shed, or any other structural elements like a tiered garden, first. Plants can grow and be chosen far easier when you have this framework already in place. 

In most cases, you will not be the one who will be handling the construction unless you have a background in it. However, you need this done right, and you need it done safely, which is why you will need to bring in the experts. 

You will have saved by doing the clearing work and the design work yourself. From thereon you can save by finding suppliers of your own, especially if the materials you want are not standard. Do all this, and you have a very clear project for the builders and contractors to take over and bring to life. 

Read: 8 IDEAL tips for making your own allotment at home

A FEW FINAL TIPS FOR PLANTING 

When it comes to planting and growing your garden, there are a few key things to remember. The first is to primarily, if not solely, plant species that are native to the UK. Invasive species can completely throw off your garden’s ecosystem and can be a nightmare to remove if you are not careful. 

You will also want to plan with the thought of growth in mind. Plants grow, so if you plant them initially too close together, then they can choke themselves out. 
Always ask for advice from the experts at your local nursery for advice or go online for tips and suggestions from those who are also designing their own garden step by step. Or, instead, check out this super useful guide on 6 plants you need to have in your garden this summer.

6 POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVE INCOME STREAMS FOR TRAVELLERS

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6 POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVE INCOME STREAMS FOR TRAVELLERS

There’s no doubt that regular travellers will have suffered significantly since the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic, with international borders either closed or at the mercy of sustained restrictions.

However, the same borders are now beginning to open up, and while some restrictions remain in place, some of the world’s most far-flung and exotic locations are taking tentative steps towards normality and welcoming tourists once again.

With the recent unstoppable rise in remote working, many keen travellers with particularly itchy feet are hatching plans to head abroad, see the world, and make some extra money while doing so. If you’re keen to do the same, here are 6 potential alternative income streams for travellers.

THE BENEFITS OF EARNING AND TRAVELLING

Ultimately, it can be hard to plan for international trips, especially if you like to enjoy extended visits abroad or relatively unstructured excursions.

The reason for this is simple; most travellers operate on a restricted budget that may not be able to sustain those truly epic trips abroad. If you’ve got your heart set on a truly ambitious travelling experience, then making moves to make a little money on the side can facilitate a trip even more spectacular in scope.

One of the best ways to achieve this objective is, ideally, by creating viable, passive streams of income that enable you to earn cash without compromising your overall travelling experience.

Something that can be done via a laptop, then, or a transient role adaptable to your chosen destination, is perfect. 

With that in mind, here are 6 potential alternative income streams for travellers.

TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY

As the National Geographic writes “when traveling, you’re likely to encounter all sorts of situations and subjects”. This unrefutable fact makes you ideally placed to become a travel photographer.

Photography is, after all, a job that requires you to travel in order to create content. But who will you sell your snaps to? According to Wanderlust, “big online stock libraries are always looking for fresh images, and want to offer as much as variety as possible”. Start by selling your photos on these stock sites, and perhaps this will open up your work to a wider audience. One can dream, right?

Read: 5 IDEAL travel tips for amateur photographers

BECOME A TRAVEL VLOGGER

In case you’ve been living under a large, undocumented rock in recent years, the term ‘vlogging’ is a mashup of the ‘video’ and ‘blogging’. Like blogging, vlogging is a creative way to connect with an audience, and it has seen a huge rise in exposure as video-sharing platforms become more ubiquitous.

Some people start travel vlogging as a hobby or a way to keep far flung family members up-to-date. But others have found that their pursuits can generate enough income to become their full-time profession. Those in the latter category make unique, captivating content which draws viewers in quickly and don’t let them go until the video ends. 

Should your YouTube channel or travel vlog have enough viewers, you can actually monetise your popularity via a thing called drop shipping, by offering custom merchandise to your followers, such as T-shirts, custom printed hoodies, sweaters, mugs or posters showcasing your travel photos or catchphrases.

Doable on the go without any geographical attachment, you could, for example, sell personalised apparel designs and let others handle the production, inventory management, and logistics. When an order is placed, the print-on-demand service prints the design on the product and ships it directly to the customer. You don’t have to worry about inventory, printing or shipping, and you earn from the price difference between the cost of production and your selling price.

MONETISE A PERSONAL SKILL IN THE GIG ECONOMY

The so-called gig economy remains a significant and fast-growing entity, and one that employs approximately 4.4% of the UK population.

This equates to around 2.8 million people. While the gig economy traditionally calls to mind Deliveroo drivers and Amazon deliverers, in reality, it is dominated by digital roles such as social media marketing, web design and copywriting.

These jobs are in particularly high demand in the modern age, as the world moves the vast majority of their business (and pleasure) into the online sphere.

RENT OUT YOUR EMPTY SPACE

If you have space available in the home that you’ll be leaving empty while you travel, then you can also monetise it by listing that space for use on sites such as AirBnB. This enables you to create a genuinely passive stream of income, and one that can be sustained for the duration of your trip.

Of course, some caveats do apply; it’s extremely unlikely you’ll be able to sublet a room should you be renting your property. And if you’re a homeowner, you’ll likely need to employ someone to take care of the checking in/out, cleaning and maintenance of your property while you’re not in the country. Dedicated Airbnb management services might be your best bet if you’re using that platform, whilst there are more generic property management services available, too, if you’re not. 

Read: 8 IDEAL tips for preparing your house for AirBnb guests

TEACH ENGLISH

If you’re reading this, you likely speak English with a fair degree of fluency. Sometimes that’s all you need for a rewarding career abroad. Or, if you’re looking for something less committal and more transient, teaching English as a second language can help you with that, too.

Of course, it’s not as simple as rocking up to a school and doing your A,B,Cs. You’ll need training and qualifications before you can stand up in front of a class and explain the past perfect continuous tense with confidence.

Some companies require you have TEFL, CELTA  or equivalent certification, but it should be noted that some organisations will actually pay for you to take the required courses once you’re installed in your new location. 

Whether you plan to travel widely or live in one place for a set period, teaching English is a great way to make decent money while seeing a new country. Depending on where you go, you may need to get a qualification like a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), so you should look into this first.

VIRTUAL ASSISTANT

The past 18 months have seen businesses large and small move the majority of their operations online. As a result, many companies have been motivated to hire virtual assistants to help them stay organised and not fall behind on administrative tasks. A virtual assistant is not much different from a traditional office assistant, except for the fact that they do most of their job remotely, from a distance. You get where we’re going with this one, right?

Tasks virtual assistants may have to complete include managing social media accounts, responding to emails, creating, organizing and sharing business-related documents and scheduling meetings or trips. They are simply not stationed in the same building as their company or manager…in other words, it could be you, from a beach in Barbados, ducking and diving in your boss’ Google Calendar.

There are even dedicated Virtual Assistant platforms that offer short, one off tasks to complete, rather than a more immersive role. Check out Fancy Hands for this. Or, if you’re keen to focus only on Social Media VA roles, then 99 Dollar Social might be your guy. 

Should you be looking for Virtual Assistant hiring platforms that cover all degrees of time commitment and experience level, then check out Zirtual and Virtalent. 

Good luck, and we’ll see you on the beach, sandy laptop in hand?

5 REASONS WHY FOOD TRACEABILITY MATTERS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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5 REASONS WHY FOOD TRACEABILITY MATTERS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Over the years, due to globalisation, advances in food preservation techniques and refrigeration, and increased consumer demand for esoteric, exotic ingredients, the global food supply chain has become increasingly intertwined and complex.

As such, ingredients and meals come to the UK from all four corners of the globe, and go through several stages, pass through many hands, and endure plenty of air miles, to get here.

This is where a food traceability system comes in. For a food business to be profitable, accountable and responsible, it’s essential that they know exactly when, where and how their food has travelled. To explore a little further, here are 5 reasons why food traceability matters for your business.

FIRSTLY, WHAT IS FOOD TRACEABILITY?

First of all, let’s get familiar with what food traceability is. The term simply refers to having the ability to find out detailed, clear information about the origin of any ingredient or food product, as well as the steps it has taken in its journey to your food business, your fridge or your plate.

This is achieved through advance recording on inventories and keeping proper documentation. In recent years, technological advancements have made food traceability much more intricate – in the not too distant future, it’s predicted that by simply scanning a price or identification tag, the consumer or buyer will be able to access a wealth of information regarding the origin of an ingredient. 

The world, it seems, is our ever more traceable oyster.

WHY FOOD TRACEABILITY IS IMPORTANT

Let’s take a closer look at why businesses should be prioritising this and investing in a quality food traceability system to ensure they’re keeping up with the times and are able to access the most up-to-date information on their ingredients.

ENSURES FOOD SAFETY & ACCOUNTABILITY

Research by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) published in 2020 estimated that there are around 2.4 million cases of foodborne illness in the UK each year. 

It’s vital, then, for consumer safety, that dates all along the supply chain are clear, correct and quantifiable. This enables the endpoint in the process (the restaurant, chef, baker) to understand just how long the ingredient or food product they’re intending to serve has been in circulation. This ensures safety for the consumer.

Food traceability also matters for a restaurant’s accountability should a customer fall ill, helping to identify what may have possibly caused the illness (and more importantly, ruling out who/what didn’t cause it), and offering evidence that due process and health and safety procedures were followed by the establishment in question.

Finally, food traceability can help food providers send back expired, out-of-date or damaged goods and receive a refund without a fractious dispute with suppliers. 

REDUCES FOOD WASTE & SPOILAGE

This more intricate tracking of precisely where your food has come from, who has handled it, and, decisively, when it was shipped, helps a food business reduce their waste in several ways.

Firstly, restaurants and other food providers are able to better time their orders to ensure ingredients and other food products arrive at their peak (or even slightly before that time). 

Secondly, by being able to track exactly where an ingredient is along its delivery journey, restaurants and other food providers can write menus that best make use of what’s already in stock and anticipate what’s going to be in stock soon with greater precision. 

Finally, by knowing precisely what’s arriving and when – now possible through technological advances in food traceability – a food business can ensure that they don’t over order, thus reducing food waste and protecting the business’ bottom line. 

ENSURES TRANSPARENCY FOR THE CONSUMER

We’ve all encountered the term ‘farm to table’. But what if that farm doesn’t actually exist, and is instead a form of deception used by multinational corporations?

Several recent exposés in the UK have revealed that many of our high street stores and supermarkets use ‘fake farms’ to give the impression of British, artisan operations rather than mass-produced, battery farmed products.

This is why food traceability is vital for the discerning consumer keen to enjoy food products that have been raised properly and kindly, and sourced ethically.

Precision within food traceability also reassures the consumer that the human rights of producers, farmers, growers and more have been respected along the food supply chain.

The demands of consumers have changed over recent years, and for food businesses, offering this transparency will likely lead to brand loyalty later down the line.

ENHANCES CREDIBILITY AND OVERALL BRAND

When you are honest and transparent with customers, this is something that is going to boost your brand overall. You become a trusted brand that allows consumers to learn more about your processes through having a food traceability system.

In doing so, they become more engaged with your product, as well as gaining an appreciation for your supplier relationships, efforts to source sustainably and your premise’s potential close proximity of the farms, growers and suppliers you use. 

All of this can lead to the overall image of your offering as being a premium product, helping you extol the benefits of eating more locally, and, in turn, leading to the potential for higher prices. Everybody wins.

5 OF THE BEST PLACES TO ENJOY THE FULL AFTERNOON TEA EXPERIENCE IN ENGLAND

Joseph Gann
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5 OF THE BEST PLACES TO ENJOY THE FULL AFTERNOON TEA EXPERIENCE IN ENGLAND

Whether you’re a tourist visiting London for the first time or a born and bred Brit looking to fill the football and tennis free afternoons later in the month, finding an afternoon tea experience full of spectacle and splendour in England can be surprisingly difficult.

Sure, nearly every English town boasts a quaint tea room serving up a pot of lukewarm Earl Grey and a couple of scones, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that, but sometimes, only the full experience will do – dress code, rituals, savouries, sweets and all. 

It’s said that afternoon tea was first served to the 7th Duchess of Bedford, Anna, in 1840. Perturbed by the fashionably late serving of dinner in her household (8pm, if you’re asking), she conceived of a way to fill the hunger and boredom during the long stretch after lunch. And with it, afternoon tea was born! Nowadays, you neither have to be royalty nor impatiently awaiting dinner to enjoy this very British tradition. 

If you’re looking for an afternoon tea experience that keeps tradition intact with every sip and slice, then you’ve come to the right place; here are 5 of the best places to enjoy the full afternoon tea experience in England.

THE RITZ, LONDON

A Michelin starred afternoon tea experience at one of London’s most revered fine dining institutions? Yes, please.

Made for royalty, at £55 per head (rising to £60 in October of this year), afternoon tea at the Ritz certainly isn’t cheap, but if you’re looking for class and tradition, this is the one. The experience comes with a selection of 18 premium loose leaf teas and freshly made cakes, scones and sandwiches from their Michelin starred kitchen, all enjoyed under the glittering chandeliers of this most famous London establishment.

Though you won’t be chastised here for adding your cream before your jam (or vice versa), the Ritz does require some traditional afternoon tea etiquette is observed; gentlemen should wear a jacket, and shorts, with jeans and trainers not permitted. 

Interestingly, in their Great British Guide to Afternoon Tea, the guys at Age Co tell us that there is no correct order regarding that jam and cream – it’s purely down to personal preference! Unless you’re in Cornwall, that is, but we’ll get on to that a little later. 

That said, the utensil you use for cream and jam application does matter; always use a spoon to add the cream and jam to your plate (using a clean spoon for each) and a knife to apply the cream and jam to your scone in your preferred order thereafter. Interestingly, a freshly baked scone should be broken in two with your hands, rather than by using a knife. If it’s baked perfectly through, it should separate neatly into two even halves.

LUTON HOO HOTEL, BEDFORDSHIRE

We had to come to Bedfordshire, to where it all began, for a traditional afternoon tea. Though you won’t be sharing a pot with Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, you can enjoy the full afternoon tea experience at Luton Hoo Hotel, a gorgeous 5 star luxury hotel and spa in Bedfordshire.

In this most regal of settings, the full afternoon tea experience will set you back either £35 or £40, during the week and at weekends, respectively. In the hotel’s elegant dining room, do remember that afternoon tea etiquette dictates that when lifting your tea cup, the saucer should remain on the table if you’re sitting. Should you be standing, the saucer rises with you as you sip. Phew, glad we got that one covered.

THE SAVOY, LONDON

Regularly voted as the best afternoon tea in the country, the afternoon tea experience at the Savoy will amaze you even before any tea has passed your lips. This is because it all goes down in the world famous hotel’s Thames Foyer, a glass domed atrium that boasts incredible natural light and a convivial spirit to match it. In the centre of the room, a pianist sets the elegant yet playful tone beautifully.

At £65 per person, the full afternoon tea experience at the Savoy is the most expensive on our list, but with over 30 teas and an impressive selection of intricately conceived pastries, scones and cakes, you won’t feel short changed.

FOWEY HALL, CORNWALL

Though we said that the ol’ ‘jam or cream first’ debate is purely down to personal preference, this isn’t the case in Cornwall, where scones originated. Indeed, local Cornish tradition dictates that cream should always be added second, and since they invented this most beloved of British bakes, we think we’ll follow their lead from now on…

With views of the sea, the luxurious country house hotel Fowey Hall is thought to be the inspiration behind Toad Hall, the fictional home of Mr. Toad in Wind in the Willows. Because of this, the afternoon tea experience at this whimsical location is a little different, following a Wind in the Willows theme. What fun!

For £27 a person, you can enjoy Ratty’s lemonade posset and Badger’s chocolate and berry Swiss roll alongside more traditional treats.

BETTYS CAFE TEA ROOMS, YORK

Did you know that sticking your pinky finger out whilst drinking tea is considered impolite, and you should try to avoid it whilst enjoying this most traditional of afternoon teas at Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms in York. Or, anywhere else for that matter…

Anyway, the full afternoon tea experience at Bettys, which has been open since 1936, is an absolute steal at just £19.95. For that, you’ll enjoy a selection of four traditional sandwiches, their iconic ‘Yorkshire Fat Rascal’ sultana scone with strawberry jam and clotted cream, and three miniature cakes. Oh, and a pot of tea, too, of course. 

Recently, Bettys was featured on the BBC Two show Remarkable Places to Eat. On the program, host Fred Siriex and national treasure (and Bake Off winner) Nadiya Hussain visited the tea room…do check it out for an insight into this beloved Yorkshire institution!

And although we don’t think we need to say this, etiquette and tradition dictate that the tea should always come before the milk. This is so the consumer can gradually add the milk to reach their desired colour and taste. That’s that one settled, then!

If you’d rather host your own event, then check out our 7 IDEAL tips for throwing the perfect afternoon tea party. Oh, and save a space for us at the table!

5 FACTS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF BEES TO OUR PLANET

Editorial Team
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5 FACTS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF BEES TO OUR PLANET

The roles of bees in the upkeep of our planet simply can’t be overstated. These little guys pollinate plants, provide food for animals, and produce honey that we can eat. Bees play a vital role in our ecosystem and without them, life would be very different. It might even be non-existent, quite frankly.

Bees are not only essential to us as humans but to the whole earth and all its inhabitants. Though many of us are most concerned about bees when they’re buzzing about our barbecues, it is, conversely, their dwindling presence we should be worried about, rather than them showing up to our summer garden parties uninvited. 

If you’re keen to learn more, then here are 5 facts about the importance of bees to our planet.

BEES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR POLLINATING ABOUT ONE-THIRD OF THE FOOD WE EAT

During their lifetime, a bee may visit as many as 80 different flower species and collect nectar from each to make honey or gather pollen grains to feed baby bees. Yep, not only do they look adorable, but they’re great parents, too!

These incredible, intellectual creatures use a combination of sight, scent, and chemical signals to identify flowers’ locations, possessing a very special type of colour vision that can see ultraviolet patterns on flowers where nectar is often located at depths inaccessible to most insects.

Because of these unique abilities, more than 100 crop species worldwide, including apples, almonds, onions, carrots, broccoli and squash, are pollinated by bees, accounting for a whopping $30 billion a year in crops. To put it bluntly, if bees went extinct, we would struggle to feed the global population. 

Bees also contribute to plant life by transferring pollen among plants which helps them reproduce—but they don’t just do this for one type of flower or plant; in fact, many types benefit from their work!

THE BEE POPULATION IS DECLINING AT AN ALARMING RATE

The bee population is declining at an alarming rate due to pesticides killing them off, habitat loss (such as deforestation) destroying their homes, and climate change making it difficult for them to live comfortably in different areas. 

What’s more, increasing urbanisation is changing environments that used to be safe havens for bees into something less hospitable. 

On a more micro level, bees are in increasing danger as they are consistently attacked by the Varroa destructor mite, which originated from Asia and is spread through honey bees – not to be mixed up with mining bees, incidentally, who make their nests underground. Nonetheless, they are equally important to our planet, just like all other types of bees.

It’s been estimated by some experts that if no action is taken against this problem there could be up to 40% fewer bees in the world by 2020. And with their decline, so too will the world’s abundance of food crops drop, too.

To enact change, it’s essential we take a holistic approach to our planet, making efforts to tread more lightly and demanding that major corporations do the same. Consumers can endeavour to only use companies who don’t use dangerous pesticides that kill these amazing creatures off. 

You can also make moves to ensure your garden is as wildlife friendly as possible. Read more on how to do just that – including how to build a hotel for bees in your garden – here. 

HONEY HAS BEEN USED A NATURAL MEDICINE FOR CENTURIES

Bees fly to and from their hives with pollen about 40 miles per day, which is then used by other bees and stored as honey. Amazingly, honey isn’t only a delicious natural sweetener; it’s also been used as a medicine for centuries. 

It’s able to sterilise and reduce the size of wounds, promote healing and even reduce pain, all because of its antibacterial properties. Owing to these antibacterial and antiseptic qualities, honey is often used as part of organic, all natural skincare routines, too.

BEES LEND A HELPING HAND TO A WHOLE HOST OF PLANTS & ANIMALS

Bees also provide help to the environment by distributing seeds. In addition to that, they produce wax that can be collected from hives or sometimes found on logs where people find them nesting. 

Bees produce honey so that they can eat when flowers aren’t blooming – a period of time known as “Winter Quarters.” Pollen from plants during these periods becomes scarce due to a lack of sunlight or rain. Bees will use up all their stores of nectar if there isn’t enough pollen available at the hive. This means no more royal jelly produced and no new bee larvae being born, leading to eventual colony collapse!

Bees don’t just affect farms though; they provide much-needed services that improve our homes as well as those of other animals such as birds, bats, butterflies, and hummingbirds that eat their nectar, particularly during these winter hibernation periods. These insects offer us shelter from rainstorms when trees lose their leaves in autumn, too! 

Without bees, there would likely be significantly more pests, disease, and even starvation. Bees not only pollinate food plants but they also pollinate crops that provide feed for livestock.

BEES HELP MAKE SO MANY OF THE PRODUCTS WE USE EVERY DAY

Bees also produce wax that is used by humans in candles, crayons, furniture polish, and other products. They are the source of honey, beeswax, propolis (a natural antibiotic), royal jelly (an excellent supplement for the elderly), bee pollen, and many other products. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

The bees have been a part of our lives (or rather, we’ve been a part of theirs) for over 120 million years. They are responsible for pollinating about one-third of the food we eat and produce honey which has many benefits, such as being used as medicine since ancient times and is also being a natural sweetener. Take care of them before they’re gone…the results of which would be catastrophic.

If you’re keen to make a difference, check out these 8 IDEAL plants that will make your garden more bee friendly.

7 OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS CLOSE TO BRIGHTON PIER

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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7 OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS CLOSE TO BRIGHTON PIER

A new series looking at the best dining options within walking distance (1 mile) of city landmarks worldwide. Here we offer our 7 IDEAL restaurants close to the Brighton Pier.

A stroll along Brighton seafront, skimming pebbles and checking out cheesy souvenir shops, tub of pickled cockles in one hand, plastic pint of flat lager in the other and sand between the teeth; if there’s a more quintessential British day out, we haven’t found it.

Neither have we looked very hard, as a day out at Brighton beach is too perfect to merit further exploration inland. This day of clichés should culminate in Brighton Pier, maybe on a fairground ride, maybe with a go on the teddy picker in the arcade.

We wouldn’t however, want this glorious day to be tainted by an overpriced hamburger, eaten on the hoof, or a meal of rock and candy floss, just for the sake of the memories. Nostalgic seasoning can only get you so far, for it is food confined to cliché for a reason.

But with Brighton now carving out its own food identity and staking a claim as one of South England’s finest dining destinations, there are restaurant options aplenty; varied, unique and, most importantly, downright delicious. Here are our 7 IDEAL restaurants close to Brighton Pier.

TERRE A TERRE (0.2 miles)

If the idea of fish’n’chips on the beach lacks the sophistication and lightness of touch you’re after, Terre a Terre may just be the place for you. This vegetarian restaurant, a Brighton institution which has been standing in the same spot for the best part of a quarter century, and the cooking has remained consistently fantastic for all of that time.

Inspiration is drawn from all corners of the globe – there’s plenty of need for google (or a helpful, knowledgeable waiter) when perusing a menu utilising this many unheard of ingredients – but this makes the experience fun and exciting, which can’t always be said of meat free restaurants.

Address:  71 East St, Brighton BN1 1HQ

Website: terreaterre.co.uk

KINDLING (0.2 miles)

Kindling opened in late 2019, and due to that pesky pandemic, has only been open in fits and starts since. That doesn’t mean the restaurant hasn’t found it’s feet. In fact, they were recognised in the latest Michelin Guide and we weren’t at all surprised; their celebration of local produce and open fire cooking has won them plaudits fast and we are very much among them.

At Kindling, the cooking is deft and done the lightest of touches, with plenty of pickled and fermented notes. The chef’s respect for ingredients is clear; no plate is crowded or overworked and the focus falls as much on fresh vegetables as it does meat or fish. All of this leaves you room for pudding, which is superb here. A chocolate and olive oil cake with fig leaf ice cream was the highlight of our last meal, and it should be yours, too.

One of the most thoughtful, delicious additions to Brighton’s dining scene in recent years; let’s just hope Kindling gets a clear run at showing their strengths from here on in!

Address: 69 East St, Brighton BN1 1HQ

Website: kindlingrestaurant.com

PLATEAU (0.3 miles)

Plateau has fast become one of your favourite Brighton restaurants. Well, it’s nominally a natural wine bar, but the small plates and snacks are certainly no warm up act for the admittedly excellent wine list, much of which is available by the glass.

Nope, the food here is stellar, with a focus on rustic French fare. Their bread, pâté, rilettes, cheeses and pickles are particularly fine with a glass of the good stuff, but Plateau also have a light touch with fish, which is always welcome so close to the coast. On our last visit, a plate of raw wild sea bass with pink peppercorns and gooseberry was top notch.

It’s an effortlessly stylish place to hang out, and with the recent addition of a few tables spilling out onto the street, there really is nowhere we’d rather sip some natty juice than here.

Address: 1 Bartholomews, Brighton BN1 1HG

Website: plateaubrighton.co.uk

64 DEGREES (0.3 miles)

64 Degrees ticks all the boxes that a hip, seaside restaurant should, with a fantastic buzz any day of the week, an abundance of fresh seafood on the menu and booking an absolute must.

The restaurant is from chef Michael Bremner, who recently achieved success on the BBC’s The Great British Menu. To say that this brought more custom would be flippant and ill-informed though, as it was consistently rammed to the rafters before his two stints on prime time television, and remains just as much so after.

The space and menu are tiny, refined and sophisticated, with only 27 covers and a recent shift into a tasting menu only format. The intricacy of the food explains both. The vibe focuses on freshness and invention, which the open kitchen helps to showcase – you can watch preparation of dishes from cosy bar seating as you imbibe. Each plate is thoughtfully composed, with exotic and unheard of ingredients jostling with the familiar. All end in beautiful friendship rather than ruckus.

Address: 53 Meeting House Lane, Brighton BN1 1HB

Website: www.64degrees.co.uk

Read our full restaurant review of 64 Degrees here

THE FLINT HOUSE (0.4 miles)

From the team that brought you the Ginger Man, Ginger Pig, Ginger Fox and Ginger Dog comes the Flint House, the only wing of the burgeoning restaurant group without a carrot-topped calling card.

If you’ve been to any of those four East Sussex stalwarts, you’ll know that the cooking in any and all is reliably confident – big on flavour and with minimal frippery – and the Flint House continues in that vein, albeit with a more expansive menu and a smaller, sharing plate format.

From the snacks section, the restaurant’s fried bread, parmesan cream and anchovy is an absolute winner. Recently, it’s been replaced by a whipped cod’s roe and smoked eel version that’s no less delicious, and the perfect match for their superb cocktails. You won’t regret ordering the Rhubarb Negroni, in particular. We didn’t; until the next day, that is.

The Flint House is the kind of restaurant where you can be assured that whichever route your ordering takes you, you’ll find yourself satisfied. There are crowd pleasers all over the menu, but they have a particularly wicked way with potatoes. The confit sort is immense here.

If you can, leave room for dessert, with the doughnut’s various guises having earnt cult status in the city since the restaurant’s opening in 2019. Alternatively, the restaurant are more than open to you popping in for just a dessert and one of those cocktails we mentioned. A fine end to a beautiful day on the beach, don’t you think?

Address: 13 Hanningtons Lane, Brighton, BN1 1GS

Website: flinthousebrighton.com

THE CHILLI PICKLE (0.5 miles)

Not your average neighbourhood curry house, that’s for certain. The Chilli Pickle raises the bar so high on the cooking front that it’s almost unrecognisable from the Balti triangles and Curry miles of many cities of Brighton’s size.

For a start, the colour scheme and décor is more reflective of a street side Bangkok eatery than anywhere on the Indian subcontinent, and certainly a long way from the opulent gold drapes and plush sofas of our Anglo-Indian renditions.

The cooking is precise and assertive, with the manipulating of sharp notes (from, amongst others, the aforementioned pickle) bringing freshness and vivacity when all too often ‘curry’ translates as something sludgy and homogenous. We love this place, and judging by the queues, Brighton does too.

Address: 17 Jubilee St, Brighton BN1 1GE

Website: thechillipickle.com

THE SALT ROOM (0.6 miles)

The Salt Room is the kind of place that all seaside towns should have, but for some reason, rarely do. It’s a place of simple, respectful fish cooking of the freshest catch, but with that extra touch of flair and attention to detail to raise the level skyward.

The fact they have their own Josper grill (an industrial indoor Barbie, in essence) certainly does them no harm, as this type of ingredients-led cooking responds very well to smoke and flames. This is the place we’ll keep coming back to, again and again, when we want to taste the sea.

Address: 106 King’s Rd, Brighton BN1 2FU

Website: www.saltroom-restaurant.co.uk

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