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FAST AND EFFECTIVE TREATMENT TO RELIEVE BACK PAIN

Editorial Team
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FAST AND EFFECTIVE TREATMENT TO RELIEVE BACK PAIN

Experiencing lockdown back pain since the beginning of the pandemic? You’re not alone. As was recently reported in the Independent, more than a third of Britons have experienced increased back pain during lockdown. In fact, with millions of people less active than before the pandemic began, and with so many spending their working days spent hunched over a laptop without ever leaving the house, the global pandemic has certainly had side effects on our posture.

The Independent reveal that a recent “survey of people working remotely, by Opinium for the charity Versus Arthritis, found 81% of respondents were experiencing some back, neck or shoulder pain. Almost half (48%) said they were less physically active than before the lockdown. Another study by the Institute for Employment Studies found 35% reporting new back pain while working from home.”

According to the World Health Organization, back pain is one of the leading causes of disabilities around the world. Yet, most people experience it at some point in their lives, especially as they get older. A report from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke cites that an estimated 80 per cent of adults experience lower back pain at some point in their lives

Unfortunately, the older we get, the more likely we are to experience back pains and niggles. As one ages, the bones and joints in the lower back start to change. The spinal discs, structures that serve as cushions between the spinal bones, tend to wear out or become fragmented. When these structural alterations occur, it can lead to back pain.

Besides that, sometimes, a disc pushes outside the space between the bones and presses on a nerve off the spinal cord. This is what causes sciatica, which is the pain that happens when a disc compresses the sciatic nerve – the nerve that leads into the buttocks and leg.

The human back is composed of a complex structure of muscles, ligaments, tendons, discs, and bones, all of which collectively work to support the body and allow us to move.

Though there are some back pain cases whose cause is unclear, it’s common to see back pain result from medical conditions, poor posture, and issues like strained muscles or ligaments, a muscle spasm, muscle tension, damaged discs, injuries, fractures, or falls. 

For those who suffer from back pain, the feeling of discomfort each time you stand up or bend over will be all too familiar. Unfortunately, when this pain starts getting in the way of daily activities, particularly keeping fit and healthy, it can be a real drag. Activities like lifting something too heavy, sitting in a hunched position for an extended period, or making an abrupt twist or turn of the body can all cause strains on your back. 

If the pain does not improve after three to four days, it might be wise to see your GP or a physician. However, if your back pain is not severe, you may try one of these fast and effective ways to relieve back pain. 

USE ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS

If pain isn’t nerve related, the likely cause of back ache is because of inflammation brought on by a muscle or ligament strain. You can relieve this pain with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which can help reduce your back pain.

However it’s worth noting here that as Healthline reports “New research suggests that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen provide little relief for back pain sufferers—and have the potential to cause serious side effects, as well”.

Indeed, doctors say that over time, NSAIDs can cause gastrointestinal problems. The NHS advises not to take them for ten consecutive days without consulting a doctor.

Jesse Bible, MD, an orthopaedic spine surgeon tells Healthline “I think most people who have experienced back pain know that over-the-counter medicines aren’t going to be a panacea,”. He continues, “What we recommend is a variety of lifestyle modifications and treatments that can help in addition to taking a pill.”

TRACTION THERAPY

Back traction, also known as non-surgical spinal decompression, is a popular therapy used by many chiropractors’ and physical therapists. It works by gently stretching the spine and is often used to treat conditions like slipped discs, sciatica and herniated discs.

Back traction and stretching devices can provide long-term back pain relief at home, but it’s essential that you ask your doctor if you’re a good candidate for this type of therapy, since it doesn’t work for everyone.

As noted in Healthline, “Your physical therapist may recommend that you buy cervical traction equipment to use at home. Certain devices may require you to have a prescription. Cervical traction devices are available online and in medical supply stores. Your physical therapist should show you how to use the device properly before you use it on your own. It’s important that you check in with your physical therapist even if you’re doing a home treatment. They’ll make sure you’re doing the best treatment, measure your progress, and adjust your therapy as necessary.”

The NHS concur, suggesting that’s it’s vital that you first consult with a medical professional on whether your particular back issue will respond favourably to this therapy; ”it is safe when recommended following a thorough verbal and physical assessment by your physiotherapist. There are some conditions and situations where traction may not be appropriate. During assessment your physiotherapist is ensuring that any treatment offered is safe for your condition, taking into consideration all other aspects of your general health”.

USE COLD AND HEAT THERAPIES

When you have a back injury, using an ice pack to ease the pain and prevent swelling, known as ‘cold therapy’ can help relieve pain. 

Keep in mind, though, that 48 hours or later after the back pain started, it might be more helpful to apply heating pads or a hot-water bottle to your back. The warmth will soothe and relax the aching muscles and will increase blood flow to help the healing process. 

However, both cold and heat therapy are only helpful for the first week. If the pain persists after this time, the likely solution lies elsewhere.

GET A NEW MATTRESS BUT LIMIT YOUR BED REST 

It may surprise you, but the average lifespan of a mattress is less than 10 years. So if your mattress is sagging or approaching the end of its natural shelflife, then you should consider investing in a new one.

However, it may help to know that both overly soft and excessively firm mattress will likely not be doing your back any favours, as several studies over the years suggest that people with lower back pain who sleep on medium-firm mattresses do better than those with soft or firm beds. 

Over the years, bed rest has been advised as a treatment for back pain, but recently medical wisdom has seen prolonged bed rest fall out of favour. As Harvard Health reports, ”in very small doses, bed rest can give you a break when standing or sitting causes severe pain. Too much may make back pain worse.”

Doctors now believe that it is better to keep moving so that your muscles don’t become stiff. Of course, bed rest remains a useful relief from low back pain, especially when it hurts to sit or stand, but it should be done in moderation for best results.

CONSIDER PHYSICAL THERAPY

A physical therapist will put you through stretches and exercises to manage your back pain, and correct any imbalances that might have caused it. The therapist may also employ other treatment techniques, such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and active release therapy. 

Exercise helps to build strong and flexible muscles strengthened against minor injuries. It can also help the healing process for an aching back, prevent problems in the future, and improve function. 

Work with your doctor or therapist to develop an exercise program; they can help you determine if your program will include aerobic activities, strength training, or flexibility exercises. Generally speaking, it is most important to strengthen your core and back extensor muscles, but by consulting with an expert first, you significantly lower your risk of exacerbating your injury.

CONSIDER COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES

There are several types of complementary therapies that can be helpful for back pain relief. They include: 

  • Acupuncture is a method in which therapists insert sterilised needles into precise points in the body to release blocked energy. The needles are said to change the way the nerves react and may reduce inflammation. According to a 2015 review of research by Harvard, acupuncture can provide more relief than painkillers.
  • Spinal manipulation involves registered chiropractors applying pressure directly to the part of the body that aches to correct spinal misalignment. 
  • You can also try applying therapeutic massage to relax aching muscles. Again, this should be carried out by a trained professional to mitigate the risk of injury.
  • You can also engage in movement therapies, such as yoga and tai chi. These physical movements can help stretch and strengthen back and hip muscles.

Please keep in mind that the evidence that these therapies are effective remains inconclusive, and in general, these therapies are considered useful only when combined with the other relief methods. 

They often say that prevention is better than cure, so head over to our article on steps to prevent back pain and problems here.

THE BIG SPRING SPRUCE UP: 4 TIPS FOR CLEANING CARPETS & RUGS

Editorial Team
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THE BIG SPRING SPRUCE UP: 4 TIPS FOR CLEANING CARPETS & RUGS

If you’ve taken the time to seek out this article, then chances are your carpet is looking a little less than clean right now. That, or you’ve got designs on becoming the latest Instagram cleaning influencer and are looking for new tips to impress your new followers. If the latter is true, don’t forget to give us a shout out. Just sayin’.

Regardless of what brought you here, one thing’s for sure; after a year spent in a seemingly perpetual state of lockdown, our carpets have taken one hell of a battering. 

The living room has never seen so much action. TV dinners, home workouts, Sopranos marathons…they’ve all become an increasingly regular thing, and inevitably, stains from runaway marina meatballs and scuffs from an over zealous burpee session have also increased in tandem.

Working from home has also meant clumsy coffee spills happening daily, and don’t get us started on all those qurantinis getting sloshed all over the floor. Come to think of it, they’re not the only thing getting sloshed.

Now Spring is here, we’ll hopefully be welcoming guests back into our humble abodes once more, and as such, many of us are suddenly reaching for the carpet cleaner for all those stains, splashes and spills that have become embedded deep into our carpet piles. To prepare for the Big Spring Spruce Up, here are 4 tips for cleaning carpets and rugs.

CONSIDER A PROFESSIONAL 

First things first, if your carpet is in dire need of a deep clean, then it’s probably time to call in the professional rather than trying to tackle it yourself. Doing so may only lead to damage, after all.

Carpet Bright UK, an award winning carpet cleaning London company, tell us that ‘’over time and with regular wear, even the best factory-applied stain resistance treatments to a carpet will become less effective. By the time you’ve vacuumed your carpet around 200 times, much of the protection it had to begin with is gone.’’

They also recommend that you get professional cleaning once every six months, at least. Yes, we know what you’re thinking, they would recommend that, being carpet cleaners and all, but dirty carpets are like a luxury hotel for dust mites – a real pain in the neck for those of us who suffer from allergies – and are the home’s number one accumulator of bad odours, too. 

INVEST IN A CARPET CLEANER

Many of us clean our carpets only when they get visibly dirty. However, bacteria, bad odours and those dust mites we just mentioned can quickly get out of hand.

If you have lots of carpet in your house and plenty of room for storage, it may be worth investing in a heavy duty carpet cleaner. The Good Housekeeping Institute Home Appliances and Cleaning Products Lab recommend: 

  • The Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner as the ‘best overall carpet cleaner’. 
  • The Hoover Smartwash Automatic Carpet Cleaner as the ‘best carpet cleaner’.
  • The Bissell CrossWave Floor and Carpet Cleaner for area rugs.
  • The Bissell Pet Stain Eraser 2003T as the ‘best handheld carpet cleaner’. 

If you’re renting or not blessed with storage space, you can always hire a carpet cleaner. According to Which, “The Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 is one of the most popular rentable models, and costs around £33 to hire for 24 hours and are available to hire from stores across the UK including Asda, Homebase, B&Q, Morrisons, Johnsons Cleaners, Tesco, the Co-operative and the Range.” 

On the subject, the guys at Good Housekeeping concur, rating it as the “best carpet cleaner to rent”. 

THE RIGHT CLEANING PRODUCTS 

When you’re shopping for home-cleaning supplies, there’s naturally a temptation to use cheaper products to save a few pennies. That’s money being spent on something which tangibly brings no pleasure or improvement to your life, so who can blame you for wanting to cut corners? But the best cleaning products will significantly cut time, and are actually a smarter investment in the long run. 

When it comes to shampoo for your carpet. Rug Doctor Carpet Detergent works well with a heavily ingrained dirt that the day-to-day life of lockdown has imparted on your rugs and carpets. Alternatively, Dyson Zorb Powder is probably our favourite powder carpet cleaner, and if you’re looking for a carpet shampoo to use in a machine, then try Vax Ultra+ Carpet Cleaning Solution, which is pretty much foolproof. Not that we’re saying you’re a fool, of course.

REACTIVE STEPS

We certainly don’t plan to spill things – unless you love the thrill of everything going into slow motion as that glass of wine falls to the floor, of course – but taking proactive measures to prevent spillages is certainly better than the reactive cleaning of them. 

Our pals at Carpet Bright who offer upholstery cleaning London services tell us “If spillages do occur, you can prevent stains from becoming permanent and embedded into our piles with a couple of fantastic products.

For fast, swift action, we’re huge fans of Dr Beckmann Carpet Stain Remover which comes with a built-in brush. Bear in mind that some stains like wine and mud should be treated when they’re dried and others should be removed immediately when wet, before they set. Check out these tips on how to remove various common stains for a little more insight.

Speaking of Dr Beckmann, we’ve just found that the company has launched a podcast series on cleaning. If you’re looking for a new podcast to listen to while you carry out domestic duties, what could be better than listening to how to clean, what to clean and when to clean, while you clean? A fully immersive experience, we think! 

5 DIFFERENT TYPES OF DOOR FOR YOUR HOME EXPLAINED

Editorial Team
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5 DIFFERENT TYPES OF DOOR FOR YOUR HOME EXPLAINED

Your door can change the entire appearance of your home, giving your house’s kerb appeal an instant boost and appealing to everyone that passes by your garden. Whether you are looking to sell your home or simply to spruce up your family’s living space from the moment you step through the door, here is a comprehensive guide to the types of doors that are available, and which one might be right for your property. With that in mind, here are 5 different types of door for your home explained.

FRENCH DOORS

French doors are usually used for the back of your property, providing a barrier between your indoor and outdoor space. Many people believe that French doors are the best option for their home as they can transition between the exterior of your home and the interior smoother and allow you to be closer to nature even if you remain inside. Not only this, but their large glass panels can allow plenty of light to enter your home, which can help to boost your mood. They allow you to take advantage of the beautiful views outside your window.

Alternatively, a bespoke wooden door brings a touch of class. The experts at parsonsjoinery.com suggest that the ”Timber is strong, resilient and beautiful, able to withstand adverse weather conditions without sustaining damage. It’s a natural insulator too, so you can say goodbye to draughts and cold spots inside”.

SLIDING DOORS

As well as French doors, sliding doors are often a popular choice for those who want to easily open and close their doors when they are going in-between the indoor and outdoor areas of your home.

Sliding doors can allow you to shut out bugs and cool air while you are enjoying your garden space while enabling you to easily get back into your home when you are ready to. Not only this, but they can be left ajar to allow a sliver of fresh air to enter your home when you want to refresh the atmosphere inside your property. 

STABLE DOORS

Stable doors are one of the most traditional types of doors that you can have in your home. Although they may appear to be like any other door, the top half of the door is separate from the bottom and can swing outwards while the bottom half of the door remains closed. These can be used to freshen up your home or even chat to someone within another room or within the garden without fully opening the door in question. 

BI-FOLD DOORS

Aluminium bi-fold doors can also be an excellent option if you are short on space within your home as they do not need to be opened outwards. They are instead made up of panels that fold into each other. Concertina doors are also popular and are similar in design, although they usually have more folds within them and do not have the hinges that bifolds do. 

ERA-SPECIFIC DOORS

However, you might want to consider investing in a door that is a little fancier for the front of your home. If you’re living in a period property, particularly, you should consider opting for era-specific doors. These doors can help you to bring the weight and elegance of tradition to your home, with beautiful replicas of historical designs that never go out of fashion.

Victorian doors, for instance, are four panelled options, with the top two panels being furnished from glass, whereas Edwardian doors are panelled once again, although often with a small fanlight above them.

And with that, we look forward to being invited round to your next party, if only to step through your beautiful new doors.

HOW TO CREATE AN EXERCISE ROUTINE FROM HOME YOU’LL ENJOY

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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HOW TO CREATE AN EXERCISE ROUTINE FROM HOME YOU’LL ENJOY

When our whole world was turned upside down a year ago, little did we know that exercising at home would be the saviour. Indeed, with a more static day-to-day lifestyle than usual, we’ve become a nation of home workout addicts and people have found a new appreciation for moving more in the domestic setting.

And for good reason. The Leicester Mercury reports that Brits have turned to exercise to help their mental health during the coronavirus pandemic, a study shows. “Before the first national lockdown in March, only 63% of exercising Brits saw improved mental health as a core benefit of exercise. That number has now risen to 72% and over half of Brits are now more likely to exercise for their mental health and wellbeing than they have in the past. Looking back at the lockdowns, 54% of Brits now say that the lockdowns have made them think more positively about exercising”.

More than 120k people tuned in for the return of Joe Wicks’ PE at the start of this year when we were plunged back into lockdown and exercise equipment sales spiked by 5,800%. Many of us have well and truly got the fitness bug, but if your enthusiasm is waning, we’ve got some easy ways you can get excited again about getting back to the mat. Here’s some simple tips on how to create an exercise routine from home

CREATE A PLAN

Creating a weekly plan will help you stay focussed throughout the week. But it’s important to schedule in rest days too. Try doing a combination of strength and cardio sessions. If you’re short on time, a 10-minute HIIT can do just the job.  Check out our article on how to do a HIIT workout at home with no equipment and a warm-up, workout and cool-down to leave you feeling super energised here for more.

Remember it’s not just about working out. NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis) is important, too. The guys at Very Well Fit tell explain that “Non-exercise activity thermogenesis, or NEAT, describes the calories burned by the movements we make when we go about our daily business”.

Making simple adjustments to your everyday routine can help you make the most of NEAT; parking your car far away in the supermarket or taking the stairs instead of lift, for instance. Other examples of NEAT activities are cooking, cleaning and even shopping!

DON’T FORGET TO STRETCH

Whether you’re doing a YouTube dance class or you’re heading out for a 5K run, warming up and cooling down are vital components of every exercise routine. Not only do they help prevent injury, but they also prepare your mind for the fact you’re about to exercise. Often half the battle is getting your trainers on and moving! 

Pick and mix a few moves to help get you warmed up and spend a few minutes at the end of your workout to stretch. Again, stretching at the end will signal to your mind and your body that you’re done! 

TURN TO ONLINE LESSONS

With no personal training, the gym floor or fellow fitness fanatics to push you through your fitness, it’s easy to get a bit lazy when working out at home. Tune into online fitness streams to guide your during this lockdown.

If you’re a regular reader of IDEAL, then you’ll know that we’re huge fans of an at-home yoga session. During lockdown, tuning in and turning up for our daily half hour with Adriene has become an essential element of the day, allowing us to set our intentions from a space of peace and purity. Just lovely.

INVEST IN EQUIPMENT

Depending on what you’re into, it may be beneficial to invest in some equipment. That said, it’s important to ensure you know how to use them safely. In a recent study by National Accident Helpline, they found that 33% of household accidents were caused by exercise equipment. 

If you’re new to strength training, invest in resistance bands instead of dumbbells, and when you get more confident and stronger you can upgrade to dumbbells. If you prefer cardio but a treadmill is out of your price range, a skipping rope is a cheap but effective alternative. 

If you’re looking to up your home gym, then check out our article on how to build the IDEAL home gym space in 5 simple steps.

DO WHAT YOU ENJOY

Ultimately, when you start any at home exercise regime there may be a little trial and error to find what you enjoy. Maybe you’re a running fanatic but hate pilates, or you love Zumba but the thought of a run fills you with dread! 

Do something you love and it won’t feel like exercise. And you’ll want to come back the next day and the next. Indeed, the perfect way to keep your motivation high and interest strong is to make sure you are exercising in a way you can enjoy and works for you. Remember fitness looks different for everyone, so even if you only manage your 10k steps, that’s still a massive achievement. 

Looking for more working out at home tips? Check out our article on how to get the most from your home workout.

4 ESSENTIAL STYLE STAPLES FOR SPRING 2021

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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4 ESSENTIAL STYLE STAPLES FOR SPRING 2021

Spring has well and truly sprung, with UK temperatures predicted to reach the mid-twenties by the middle of next week. And with that, our Winter fleeces, hats, gloves and snow boots are optimistically retired for another year, regardless of how long the unseasonably warm weather lasts.

Yep, whilst we realise that we’re prematurely manifesting the onset of Summer by banishing sleeves and layers until Autumn, our focus should perhaps instead be falling on those transition pieces which are perfect for heralding the shift into Spring. Personally, we love this time of year, with the lightening of outfits reflecting a brightening of mood. 

Though this season is certainly looking a little different (we’re going to try and get through a whole article without mentioning the C word), there are several seasonal wardrobe mainstays which are sure to be back in fashion as March turns into April and beyond. With that in mind, here are 4 essential style staples for Spring 2021.

WHITE JEANS 

“For a garment that can be ruined by one unguarded sit-down, they have proved virtually indestructible as a trend… a looser cut on the leg and a wide, high waistband into which you can tuck a crisp shirt have shifted white jeans into an elegant, grown-up place.”

Nicely put @Guardian, we couldn’t have put it better ourselves. Indeed, white jeans are a key Spring piece we come back to year after year, symbolic of a lightening of outfit and an uptick in mood, and ideal for days spent under the sun, in a park (on a rug, of course, unless you want a mucky bottom) or at the beach. With alfresco living set to be the only way to socialise in the coming weeks, expect to see white jeans everywhere.

COMFORTABLE SHIRT DRESSES

You just can’t beat a floral dress to truly herald the arrival of Spring; we all know this. However, another Spring dress staple that often gets overlooked is the shirt dress. 

This season, according to Glamour, the shirt dress trend is coming out gunning for our sweats and we’re very much here for it. After months in loose and (admittedly) comfy clothes, the idea of putting on something more formal than loungewear feels odd. But the shirt dress seems to fit the transition brief in style; it’s still loose and flowing, but it still represents a definite departure from our pyjamas. 

As the fashion experts at Glamour highlight “the shirtdress is an effortlessly cool wardrobe staple with tons of versatility and layering potential for transitioning between seasons”

ELEVATED KNITWEAR 

We think that benching your joggers and comfortable sweaters for something just a little more formal is going to be a recurring theme here. The fashion experts at Harpers Baszzar agree, suggesting that it’s time to “Switch up your loungewear game with elevated knitwear that goes beyond dresses and plush joggers. A midi skirt gives the same polished feel you’d get from pencil styles for the office”.

Speaking of knitwear, finding the right thickness of jumpers is key in Spring, when temperatures are so unpredictable. The perfect balance, we think, is realised in a delicate though durable material. 

We’re taking inspiration from Loro Piana’s collection this season. They specialise in the softest cashmeres and extrafine wool, as well as rare fabrics like Vicuña, and their collections are all about balance of different weights and materials.

It’s the idea of having different weights and materials which is key here –  something that is essential for every Spring wardrobe and for us, cashmere is ideal for the season. Moreover, its ultra-soft feel isn’t such a shock to the system as some other fabrics, particularly after spending lockdown in ultra-comfortable lockdown loungewear for months on end. 

The wonderful thing is that you can get cashmere in varying levels of thickness, ensuring that you’re the perfect temperature, whatever the weather. Moreover, when cared for correctly, a high quality cashmere jumper can last up to ten years – meaning that it can be a staple in your wardrobe for many Springs to come.

TRANSITION SHOES 

We’ve all been there; as soon as we’ve decided it’s time to bring out our sandals for Spring, a bout of afternoon showers arrives and has us slipping around all over the place. And while we’re huge fans of white sneakers for Spring, which seem to pair effortlessly with those floral patterns and minimalist shirt dresses we previously mentioned, they do tend to get seriously dirty during Spring showers – especially the shoe laces. The answer to your transition-season shoe woes? Cute and comfortable loafers. 

Right now, loafers are bang on-trend and pair effortlessly with a diverse range of outfits. As Glamour highlights “Having a similar resurgence are thicker soled styles that were the ultimate in cool during the mid-Nineties and fit with fashion’s current retro obsession.” 

Remember, as the old fashion saying goes; ‘’boots are for Winter, shoes are for Summer and loafers are for everything in between.’’

And if you’re playing the long game and are keen for more seasonal fashion tips, then check out our article on 5 upcoming spring/summer styles to invest in now.

THE COST OF FINDING LOVE THROUGH DATING APPS

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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THE COST OF FINDING LOVE THROUGH DATING APPS

Over the course of the pandemic, finding love has been more challenging than ever. From long stretches of time spent at home to the closure of bars and other places where you might hope to meet someone special, it has been a particularly hard time for singles. It’s no surprise, then, that so many people have turned to using dating apps. In fact, 2020 was the biggest year on record for dating apps, with 270 million global users and global revenue of $3.08 billion.  

Today, it feels like there’s an app for all kinds of dating, whether you’re on the search for something casual or ready for a committed long-term relationship. During COVID-19, many users turned to apps for a sense of remote companionship, even though in-person dating was impossible. However, with the rollout of vaccinations and falling of COVID cases across the country, people are beginning to see a light at the end of the tunnel. With this light comes an appraisal of which dating app might be best to enter this brave new normal. Considering the price and potential of a few favourites, here’s a look at the cost of finding love through dating apps.

A SPIKE IN PAID USERS POST-COVID

According to Tinder’s chief executive, Elie Seidman, Tinder’s data reveals that new sign-ups for premium memberships have picked up when previous lockdowns have started to ease. This indicates that those casual users swiping somewhat aimlessly through potential matches for entertainment during lockdown become more serious when in-person dating is back on the table. 

With an estimated 15 million single people in the UK and a reported 2.6 million people who say that they “often or always” feel lonely, it makes sense that more people are beginning to fork out for the real deal. When the current lockdown eases, paying users are predicted to increase substantially. The only question left is which app is the best value for money when it comes to finding your perfect match? 

TINDER GOLD (1 MONTH) – £7.49 PER MONTH

The cheapest app, and the one that dominates the field, is Tinder. Users can enjoy a Tinder Gold account for under £10 a month in the hope of increasing their matches, both in quality and in quantity. With premium comes the option of more super-likes, one monthly ‘boost’ in which your profile will rocket to the top of other people’s lists, and the option to rewind if you make a drastic swiping mistake. 

Who is it best for? 

Generally speaking, Tinder is thought to be great for young people, especially those who live in big cities and are on the lookout for a more casual dating experience. 

HINGE PREFERRED (1 MONTH) – £19.99

Looking to spend more in the hope of finding something more serious? Why not give Hinge a go? Hinge is an app which prides itself on the fact that its users don’t take things at face value. With prompts and questions as well as pictures, this app allows you to build up your profile with the intention of offering a more genuine, extensive reflection of the ‘real’ you. A latecomer to the dating app scene, Hinge has seen success throughout the pandemic, with almost half of its users (52%) having been on a video date over lockdown.  

If you’re looking for something long-term and you have specific requirements in a partner, then paying for Hinge Preferred allows you to add additional filters and gives you an unlimited number of likes to use. 

Who is it best for? 

Hinge is generally targeted at 18–35 year-olds, but unlike Tinder, it’s generally more appropriate for those looking for a serious relationship. The app’s tagline, ‘designed to be deleted’, promises that true love is only one question or a single prompt away. 

BUMBLE BOOST (1 MONTH) – £20.99

Next up, for those women who love making the first move, we have Bumble. Generally thought of as the female-friendly Tinder, Bumble requires its female members to initiate conversations once a match has been made.

Because of this, you can sometimes feel a bit rushed to get the interaction moving. Fear not – with Bumble’s premium account, Bumble Boost, you can extend your matches by 24 hours and give yourself a bit more time. Boost also allows you to re-match with expired connections and see everyone who’s swiped right on you. 

Who is it best for?

Although it is largely thought of as a better option for long-term relationships than Tinder, it generally falls into the same category of being perfect for young daters who are looking for some flirty messaging and casual dating.  

MATCH.COM PREMIUM (1 MONTH) – £29.99 PER MONTH

Things are getting serious now. Match.com is considered one of the more mature dating apps, although it is targeted at millennials and older generations alike. If you’re looking for a serious relationship after the long months of various lockdowns, then Match.com could be the perfect option for you. 

With a premium account for just under £30 per month, you can utilise Match’s monthly boost feature which sends you to the top of other people’s matches along with a yearly review of your profile from the staff at Match. 

Who is it best for?

Those who are looking to settle down and find a serious relationship. The largest portion of its users are in the 35-to-44 demographic, and account for 27% of its total users. 

Whether you’re looking for a casual post-lockdown fling or you’ve already got plans to buy a diamond engagement ring in mind, perhaps it’s time to get serious. By investing in your dating app of choice, you might just find exactly what you’re looking for.

6 Tips For Digital Nomads Moving To Portugal

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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6 Tips For Digital Nomads Moving To Portugal

We probably don’t need to tell you that the global coronavirus pandemic has likely changed the way we live and work forever. Though many in the UK anticipate a return to the office at some point this year, experts predict that the majority of us will continue working remotely in some capacity for, well, ever.

As travel restrictions are lifted, we’re set to see the return, and the rise, of digital nomads. With a new found freedom to work remotely releasing you from the confines of a single city, where would you live and work if you could choose anywhere?  

How about Portugal? Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, has long been well known for its reputation as a smart, secure relocation choice for freelancers and digital nomads alike. What’s more, earlier this year it was announced that the first digital nomad village in Europe was about to open on the tiny volcanic island of Madeira, offering a free workspace and a wonderful sense of community for those staying for a month or more. Whilst Portugal has always been attractive to digital nomads, drawn in by its agreeable climate, warm hospitality and fantastic food, that announcement has certainly improved the country’s appeal. 

Once national and international law permits it, if you’re considering a fresh start, then here are 6 tips for digital nomads moving to Portugal. 

CONSIDER ISLAND LIFE ON PONTA DO SOL 

Let’s explore that Digital Nomad Village in a little more detail. The Village sits on the island of Ponta Do Sol and offers a free working space, access to a #slackcommunity and free internet access from 8 am to 10 pm every day, all hosted at the John do Passos Cultural Centre in the village centre. 

Considering the logistics of entry, TripSavvy reveals more; “Remote workers coming from outside of the European Union will need to apply for a 90 day Schengen visa before arrival.  You also don’t have to pay exorbitant amounts of money to participate, everything is pretty much at cost. Housing suggestions are offered on the site via Airbnb listings and hotels offering long-stay rates plus discounts and perks (like free breakfast) for village participants. Digital nomads can register to reserve their spot as we speak. To learn about Madeira’s COVID-19 protocols, check out the Madeira Safe to Discover website.”

For digital nomads tired of working alone and keen to meet like-minded people, this sounds like an appealing, convenient option. That said, one of the perks of digital nomadism is the freedom associated with it, to explore and engage with cultures and communities far removed from your own. Being on an island, Lord of the Flies style, in a dedicated digital nomad community rather mitigates this. 

THE ALGARVE  

Instead, have you considered the Algarve? Portugal’s southernmost region, the area nicknamed ‘The End of the World’ needs little in the way of introduction, but we’ll introduce it nonetheless. Blessed with idyllic scenery, and intoxicating and alluring in equal measure, the Algarve has put itself firmly on the map as Portugal’s flagship tourist destination in recent decades. 

But it’s not just tourists who are attracted to the Algarve. Digital nomads flock here in droves to enjoy miles of beautiful coastline, luxuriating in the predictably warm weather but cursing the sometimes temperamental internet when they get here. It should be noted that accommodation in the Algarve tends to be on the more expensive side, and you’ll struggle to find anywhere affordable to stay during the region’s high season, between June and September. 

That said, the cost of living is generally pretty affordable, and positively cheap compared to the UK. What’s more, the majority cafes and restaurants offer free wi-fi and the slow pace of life here means you won’t be disturbed over your espresso and emails. Should you have a car, the Algarve boasts some truly scenic roads. If you don’t drive, you might find the transport rather unpredictable here.

So, if you’re comfortable completing your work from a cafe, the Algarve could well work for you. If you need a more fully fledged operation in a rented apartment, perhaps you’ll find Lisbon better suits your needs…

IT’S ALL ABOUT LISBON

Lisbon boasts a reputation as being one of the best places for digital nomads to live in Western Europe, with a low cost of living, fantastic local food, loads of sunshine, a super-fast internet (17th in the world, if you’re asking) and warm residents, visitors will find a convivial way of life here which welcomes remote workers with enthusiasm.   

The Alfama district is at the centre of Lisbon’s global community, with the Independent saying that “here, between the ancient houses that rise from the Tejo Estuary to the majestic Castele de Sao Jorge, you’ll find a community of young people from all around the world who’ve settled in the Portuguese capital and made it their home’’. Sounds idyllic to us! 

Sure, you’ll need food to fuel those hours spent at co-working spaces or tap-tap-tapping away from your urban apartment, and rest assured, from sardines to bifana, and prego to pastel de nata, it’s a marvellous city to eat in. To help you get inspired (and no doubt hungry), here are some of our favourite things to eat in Lisbon, as well as some of the best restaurants to eat at in the city, including the cherished institution that is Cervejaria Ramiro, one of our favourite restaurants in the world! We’d move to Lisbon just to be closer.

NETWORK & MAKE FRIENDS

Being a digital nomad can get lonely, make no mistake. Luckily Portugal has loads of communities and networking opportunities for those looking to meet like-minded people on both a professional and personal level.

Some Lisbon networking groups you could join include Digital Nomads PT, Lisbon Digital Nomads and Lisbon Digital Nomads‘ public Facebook group. Alternatively, you can meet fellow digital nomads at the vast LX Factory complex, as well as Outsite Lisbon and the Second Home workspace, perched on top of the Mercado da Ribeira.

CONSIDER BECOMING IN RESIDENT VISAS

Should Portugal steal your heart and you decide to settle here for longer, new rules open up the opportunity to make Portugal your home full-time. 

If you want to stay in the country for longer than 150 days, you need to register as a resident; if you’re from outside the European Union, check the applicable regulations that apply to where you’re from, though in general, Portugal is very amiable to foreign residents making it their home. UK citizens are advised to follow Brexit developments closely, as residency has become a little complex since the start of the year. That said, the Portuguese government are keen to welcome more long term visitors, and have made the process of moving there easier as a result.

As highlighted in Expat Exchange “the government of Portugal has brilliantly gone out of its way to attract tech startups and the tech talent that they know they’ll attract. They have added a special visa for anyone starting tech start ups.” 

The scheme offers a more general Portuguese residency through investment, too. The programme, which is widely known as the “Golden Visa Programme” has recently had a change in legislation. Up until now, the majority of investment for Golden Visa has been focused on Lisbon, Porto and coastal regions in the Algarve. 

However, they now want to increase foreign investment across all of Portugal. As such, the new changes that come into force in January 2022 mean that investment in retail property is only allowed in the autonomous regions of the Azores and Madeira or in territory inland. That said, the new law does not prohibit commercial investments, though these will continue to be allowed in Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve regions. Decisions, decisions.

GIVE BACK 

Speaking of investing in the country, there are other ways to give back, too.  

As highlighted by the Independent, the rise of digital nomadism risks having a ”corrosive effect on the fabric of Lisbon’s society and many traditional stores and bars that would have been cheap meeting places for locals are disappearing and being replaced with expensive cafes for English-speaking and foreign students.”

That said, it’s something of a double-edged sword, and can bring benefits as well as issues. They go on to report that “the city authorities are doing much to encourage this change – regulation is loose and taxes on short-term rentals remain low, as the city tries to stimulate the tourism industry to help tackle the still-high unemployment rates.”

If you’re planning on moving to Portugal, it’s worth considering how you can give back to the country in a meaningful way. Sites like Nomads Giving Back are on the rise, offering volunteering programs and useful advice on charities to support to help out. Bravo!

THE BOTTOM LINE

It’s easy to see why Portugal has become such a hotspot for digital nomads; the sun shines, the sardines sizzle, and the country’s government and people are enthusiastic to visitors. If you’re considering living and working in the country, then it’s essential that you tread lightly and respectfully at all times. In doing so, you’ll find that Portugal has so much to offer. Boa Viagem!

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR FOODIES VISITING SANTORINI

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR FOODIES VISITING SANTORINI

Ideal if you’re looking to eat your way around the Cyclades‘ captivating, crescent shaped island.

When it comes to making travel plans right now, Greece is the word tentatively on everyone’s lips.

With the end of lockdown restrictions in reach and freedom to travel again before the year’s out a distinct possibility, there’s a certain excitement in the air, make no mistake. Last month it was reported that Greece were in talks with UK to allow holidays using vaccine passports as soon as the summer, and this has lead to speculative, hopeful planning across the UK.

To quote a song concerning a different type of Grease, “we start believing now that we can be who we are”, and for people who love to travel, it’s safe to say that the belief has returned.

But where to choose in this glorious country made up of 6’000 islands? And how to narrow it down to just one? Well, Santorini is perhaps the most exceptionally beautiful, hugely cherished Greek Island out there, but we didn’t need to tell you that, did we? World-famous for its spectacular sunsets, whitewashed buildings, blue-domed houses and charming windmills, it’s been top of many an intrepid traveller’s bucket list for years now; could 2021 be the reason you finally visit?  

Oh, and let’s not forget about its active volcano. We’re not going to pretend to understand the science but the volcanic soil of Santorini is rather special. As explained by Nau in Greece, “After the Minoan eruption in 1613 BC the whole island was covered in a thick, gray layer of ash and pumice”.  

But why have we suddenly pivoted to discussion of volcanic expulsions, we hear you ask? Well, this ash and pumice “provides unique conditions that allow farmers to grow specific species of crops” and gives a unique taste – its terroir, if you will – to the island’s agricultural products.

As such, Santorini is a place where it’s really hard to get a bad meal. Though the food scene here is, of course, fuelled by its tourism to an extent, the island’s cuisine still celebrates its heritage and produce keenly. Here, modern flourishes interplay with a deep respect for tradition, and it shows on the plates of tavernas across the island. 

If you’re hungry to learn more, here are 5 IDEAL foodie things to do in Santorini.

TAKE A TOUR OF ITS VINEYARDS

Due to the island’s dry and volcanic landscape and mineral-rich land, there are indigenous grape varieties only found on these shores – which of course lends itself to rare, delicious wines.  

Assyrtiko is the first wine you should try in Santorini. Containing volcanic mineral notes and the intoxicating aroma of citrus fruit, it pairs brilliantly with fish and shellfish According to Decanter Magazine, “Assyrtiko is to Greece what Albariño is to Spain or Grüner Veltliner is to Austria”. They go on to say that “there really isn’t anything like Santorini Assyrtiko”, and we couldn’t agree more.

While the vine itself has travelled from Greece’s islands onto the mainland, the flavour profile seems to get less distinctive the further it travels from Santorini. Being so unique, it’s a tough one to quantify, but the tasting notes read a little something like this…

“If ever a wine justified the description ‘mineral’ it’s the dry white wine made on this volcanic island. It’s hard to describe the intense, sometimes pungent smoky, Volcanic smell and taste in any other way. It isn’t only the flavour of course: penetrating citrus, especially lemon and other signature flavour, sometimes with quince or a floral note. There can be a salty edge too. And then there’s the trademark acidity. And then there’s the trademark high Acidity. Assyrtiko has the ability to hold it’s tartaric acid in a hot climate.’’ Fascinating stuff. 

While you can certainly imagine the wine from this detailed description, there’s nothing like tasting it for yourself first-hand, from where it’s made. So, head to one of the island’s wineries overlooking the volcano to do just that, and learn even more about the fascinating production methods and unique terroir involved. 

The majority of tours host tasting sessions, with the two wineries which boast the best caldera views perhaps Santo and Venetsanos, both of which celebrate organic wine with volcanic heritage in the most glorious of settings.

The tour at Santo feels like a genuine steal; a guided tour of the winery comes with a tasting of five premium wines and costs just €40 per person. But perhaps even better value is Venetsanos Winery’s tour, which offers four wines and a lunch of traditional Greek meze spread using some of Santorini’s finest produce thrown in for good measure, all for €45 per person. Decisions, delicious decisions.

We should mention here that Santorini has a unique way of cultivating its wine. Remember that Minoan tuff and pumice we mentioned earlier? Well, it’s unique in the sense that it’s brought about by “anedosa”, a fog that covers the island every morning and ‘waters’ the caldera in place of more formal irrigation. All of this leads to a gorgeously exclusive, idiosyncratic product.  

The guys from Elite Estates Villas also recommend trying the internationally acclaimed Vinsanto, a naturally sweet, sun-dried dessert wine. While red in colour, it is actually produced from overripe white grapes. The grapes are left to dry in the sun for about a week, giving the wine a heady aroma of raisins, dried figs, honey, nuts and hot coffee. Most of the wineries produce their own version of Vinsando which all taste very different – the perfect excuse for another wine tasting tour, we think. 

LOOK OUT FOR THESE DISHES AND INGREDIENTS 

That light lunch using Santorini’s finest produce? Let’s dig a little deeper into that distinctive soil….

While we’re on the subject of terroir, Santorini is known for some distinguished, specific local produce thanks to its volcanic soil. When you’re dining out, keep your eye out for these local ingredients and delicacies which embody the flavours of Santorini. 

  • Capers – These little flower buds known for packing a punch grow wild all over the island, sprouting out from stone walls and along the craggy coasts. Thanks to the volcanic soil and the dry, windy conditions, the flavour of Santorini’s capers is intense. They are also larger than most capers in the region.
  • Fava – This is perhaps the most famous dish on the island. However, it’s not actually made from fava beans. Confusing, we know, but Santorini is known for growing yellow split peas, and the dish known as ‘fava’ is actually a yellow split pea puree. Bolstered with garlic and onion, and given richness by generous amounts of locally cultivated olive oil, fava has a similar velvety mouthfeel and flavour profile to hummus. Look out for its redolent yellow amongst a table of meze and dive in!
  • White Aubergines – Yet another rare product largely unique to Santorini, we can again thank the unique Santorinin soil for this delicious fruit (yep, it’s a fruit). White aubergines taste subtly different from the purple variety, lacking its sibling’s bitterness and not containing as many seeds. A must-try using the famous white aubergine is melitzanosalata, an aubergine dip similar to baba ganoush but without the tahini.
  • Tomatoes –  Santorini is famous for a specific variety of tomatoes that grow nowhere else in the world. Similar in looks to an heirloom tomato, Santorini’s renowned cherry tomato is thicker-skinned, sweeter and deeper red than many other tomatoes. Take a trip to the island’s Tomato Industrial museum to learn more about it, and if you’re picking up souvenirs, Santorini tomato paste is highly revered globally. If you see Tomatokeftedes on a menu during your time here (you will), do order them – these are tomato and feta fritters which are downright irresistible.  
  • Chlorotyri – A local cheese made from sheep or goat’s milk with a distinctive sour tang, chlorotyri is only made by local producers in small quantities and has an almost refreshing quality to it. Just delicious.
  • Kopania – Reminiscent of Chinese sesame seed snacks, these little bites made from raisins, milled barley and sesame seeds are fantastic alongside a glass of dessert wine, which, incidentally, the island does very well.
  • Apochti – another local delicacy is the cured pork loin carpaccio, Apcochti. Flavoured with pepper and cinnamon, there’s an enjoyable piquancy which calls to mind salami. Sometimes this cured pork product is made using wild boars native to the island. 

DINE, COOK & GO WINE TASTING AT SELENE 

If you’re on a gastronomic adventure (you are, that’s why you’re here), then look no further than Selene, arguably Santorini’s premier fine dining destination. With accolades including an entry on The World’s 50 Best Discovery list and Greece’s Food and Leisure Best Restaurant award, if you’re after haute cuisine with a firm focus on using only the finest local produce, then this is the place to come.  

Selene has garnered a reputation for showcasing the best produce from Santorini’s farmlands, vineyards and olive grows. Oh, and they’re not bad with the stuff from the sea, too.  

The restaurant has recently found a new home in Fira, the capital of Santorini, within the walls of a former monastery. Their dishes are refined, with a “contemporary spin on traditional recipes”, and although the global arbiters of good gastronomic taste Michelin don’t cover the Greek islands, Selene would be a shoo-in for a star if they did. 

Selene champions Cycladic cuisine, culture and Santorini’s producers with their innovative menu, and if you’re keen to explore further, Selene also hosts cookery courses, ideal if you want to learn more about the culinary heritage of Santorini. The restaurant offers a short two hour session, a full day or an extended three day course, with prices starting at around €50 for the two hour session.

You’ll be taught about the unique agricultural products of the island and get an insight into the farming life of Santorini. Selene also offers wine tasting sessions where their expect sommeliers unveil the secrets of the volcanic terroir and local wine varieties of the island. You might even impress them with the knowledge you’ve accrued during the course of this article!

GET A TABLE AT ONE OF THE BEST TAVERNAS IN TOWN 

To go to Santorini and eat exclusively in upscale restaurants would be a huge mistake. Though doing so is certainly one of the great foodie things to do in Santorini, there’s so much more to the food culture here than fine dining.

There are wonderful tavernas all over Santorini, serving up family takes on traditional recipe, keeping things respectful to the produce and its heritage. The Greeks like to joke that there is a grandma (yiayia in Greek) secretly behind the stoves of every great taverna, and when you find your favourite, you’ll understand what they mean.

Though the best taverna is often the one you stumble across when you’re particularly hungry, here are several which are certainly worth making the journey for: 

To Psaraki (meaning ‘little fish’ in Greek) is considered one of the best tavernas for seafood in Santorini. The eatery overlooks Vlyháda seafront, the main fishing port which is rather curiously shaped like a question marked quay. 

Since this is the main fishing port on the island and where the boats unload their haul, To Paskari naturally runs a menu which champions things from the sea. A glass of ouzo or a cold beer alongside some freshly caught, grilled sardines and their fresh bread flavoured with Santorini tomato puree is a must order.

Fish of the day options are priced by weight, and are, of course, as fresh as you like. For those with a sweet tooth, the restaurant makes baklava from scratch, and it pairs just perfectly with their homemade semifreddo. Bliss!

Touted as another of the best Santorini seafood restaurant,s while you’re in Vlyháda it would be rude not to visit To Steki tou Psara, which translates as the fisherman’s hangout. It’s been run by the same family for 20 years and true to its name, you’ll find locals and fishermen rubbing shoulders with tourists at the taverna’s tightly packed tables.

Aktaion is one of the oldest, most charming tavernas on the island. This place has been run by the same family since 1922, and although it’s tiny, it has some serious soul. The food is simple, traditional and delicious; the moussaka here, baked in a claypot as is tradition, is great, and if you’re a fan of pasta (who isn’t) there is an exemplary plateful using Santorini’s famous tomatoes and capers.

If you’ve had one too many Ouzos the night before, then a visit to To Koutouki tou Bekri is all but obligatory. They’re known for patsás, a kind of tripe soup that’s considered a common Greek hangover cure and is traditionally washed down with a glass or two of ouzo. Ah, that’s why it works. 

BASK AT A BEACH BAR

Sure, you’re here for the food, but Santorini is an island blessed with some seriously idyllic beaches. Be warned; it’s not all golden sands and turquoise waters in Santorini. As the Greece luxury accommodation experts at Elite Estates tell us, ‘’The beaches at Santorini are not your typical Greek ones. The volcanic eruption of ancient Thira took its toll on this side of the island and its beaches seem to belong to Mars – they have a unique beauty, but they’re not the ones you’re used to seeing.’’

That’s not to say you can’t find a great place to kick back in the sun. Throw in a cocktail or two (not into the sea, silly), and a long, languid bask at a beach bar ticks all the boxes needed to see out your foodie holiday in style. 

Some of the best beach bars and restaurants include Seaside by Notos, Mesa Pigadia by Akro (a much photographed restaurant housed in a cave) and Yalos Beach Bar Restaurant, to name but a few. Ya Mas!

THE BOTTOM LINE 

A foodie tour of Santorini will reveal one of the most unique terroirs anywhere on the planet, with the island’s incredible produce and distinctive wine a product of its history, heritage and geography. 

If you’re island hopping around the Cyclades and you’re hungry for more, then check out our suggestions for the IDEAL day out in Mykonos for foodies. We’ll see you on the sand for an ouzo?

5 MILESTONE EVENTS IN YOUR LIFE WHICH YOU SHOULD BE SAVING FOR NOW

Editorial Team
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5 MILESTONE EVENTS IN YOUR LIFE WHICH YOU SHOULD BE SAVING FOR NOW

Milestones? Money? Meticulously mapping out life’s journey? If this triple threat of contrived alliteration is enough to bore you to sleep, then we should warn you; middle age might come as something of a wake up call.  

Here’s the rub; life isn’t all smooth sailing, and sometimes, it comes at you fast. And oftentimes, in your blind spot. There are certain things that you should be saving for in life, regardless of whether or not you see them on the approach. Nostradamus, you are not. Crystal ball, you don’t have. Prophesying, you haven’t yet mastered. 

As we said, life moves fast; one minute you’re saving for a wedding and a baby and the next you’re making plans for funerals and working out your expenses for your retirement. But whilst you can’t predict exactly what the future holds, you can be prepared for anything life throws at you by putting away a little each month, in case of the following; these 6 milestone events in your life which you should be saving for.

A WEDDING DAY

The average cost of a wedding in the UK, as of 2021, stands at £30’000 according to Grazia. And whilst some can expect help with costs from their parents, many will need to fork out the majority of that 30K from their own pocket. Of course, the amount you put aside each month depends on when you envisage your wedding day being. Anticipate that you’ll be getting married in five years time, for instance, and you should be putting aside £500 each and every month of that time period in order to afford the thing.

And if you never plan to get married, you should still consider the fact that your children might. Which brings us onto…

HAVING CHILDREN

The UK is suffering from something of a conception crisis. With no evidence of coronavirus leading to the much talked up ‘baby boom’, the London School of Economics has, in fact, predicted a ‘baby bust’ in the near future, saying that ‘’this particular health emergency has been one of the most severe economic crises of the last century, with such events always being followed by a decline in fertility rates.’’

Whilst we wouldn’t want to contribute to these grim forecasts, in the modern era, the average cost of having a child in the UK is astronomically high; according to Money Dashboard, the little one will set you back £11’500 in the first year alone. Though some government support is available for single parents, it does also pay to put some money aside each month to help lighten the load of your new arrival.

A BROKEN BOILER

Yep, we’re really drilling down into the mundane aspects of middle age now, but a broken boiler isn’t something to be scoffed at or, worse, ignored. That would only lead to months of freezing cold showers and a general sense of malaise. On average, a new combi boiler in the UK will cost on average anywhere between £1’600 and £3’500, plus upwards of £500 in installation fees, new insurance and the rest.

You can mitigate the danger of this sudden expense by having yours serviced regularly. What’s more, the government may provide financial support in replacing your old boiler should you opt for an energy efficient version under their Green Homes Grant scheme. 

BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME

Getting on the housing ladder has become increasingly difficult in the past eleven years, but with the UK government’s stamp duty relief and their Help To Buy scheme extension, you may not need to save up quite as much as you thought to buy your first home. 

In the scheme, you can ‘’borrow a minimum of 5% and up to a maximum of 20% (40% in London) of the full purchase price of a new-build home.’’ In theory, all you need is a 5% deposit, with the breakdown on a £200’000 property looking something like this:

  • 5% deposit (£10’000)
  • 20% equity loan, provided by the government but repayable with interest (£40’000)
  • 75% mortgage (£150’000)

You do still need to be accepted for a mortgage, however, which has become increasingly difficult due to the global pandemic’s effect on the public finances. 

Better start saving for that £10’000 and the money to prove you’re financially secure enough for a mortgage, then. 

YOUR RETIREMENT

We’re playing the long game here. We’ve sorted out our boiler, bought a house for it, and conceived a child just so we can saviour the experience of saving up for their wedding. Now, it’s time to focus on the financial burden of retirement.

Here’s some good news after an increasingly worrying list of financial projections; many people actually overestimate how much they’ll need for retirement, with a comfortable retirement achievable on around £19’000 a year, according to Which. To achieve this level of security, experts recommend you pay at least 10% of your annual salary into a pension pot. 

Of course, a dignified, independent retirement isn’t only about money. Check out our 5 steps to helping elders live a more meaningful retirement for some useful advice on the subject.

HEALTHY AGEING: 5 TIPS ON LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE IN YOUR LATER YEARS

Editorial Team
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HEALTHY AGEING: 5 TIPS ON LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE IN YOUR LATER YEARS

2021 marks the second year of the United Nations’ Decade Of Healthy Ageing, which aims ‘’to improve the lives of older people, their families, and the communities in which they live’’ by coordinating a concerted effort by governments, civil society, the media, academic and the private sector to help the elderly enjoy a life of dignity and meaning.

The World Health Organisation defines healthy ageing as “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables wellbeing in older age”, and they suggest this can be done in five fundamental ways; by meeting the basic needs of the elderly, helping them make their own decisions, facilitating mobility, helping them build and maintain strong relationships, and ensuring the elderly both contribute to, and feel valued by, society.   

There’s a danger in the modern world that many people assume the ageing process to be debilitating, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, there are several things you can do to maintain good health and independence as you age. With healthy ageing in mind, here are 5 tips on living your best life in your later years.

STAY ACTIVE

As the WHO pointed out in their definition of healthy ageing, retaining your mobility is so important as you get older. Indeed, staying physically active will increase the chances of you being more mobile as you age. In turn, you can retain your independence.

Maintaining a gentle but committed exercise routine, taking a daily walk, counting your steps for added motivation, or even setting yourself regular fitness challenges can be a great way to prioritise exercise. Even gardening or a spot of pilates can do wonders for an elderly person’s fitness. If you’re keen to learn more, check out these ideas for the elderly to keep fit, which is packed full of useful suggestions.

HAVE ROUTINE CHECK-UPS

Medical issues can typically be resolved more easily if they’re diagnosed early, and as we age, the likelihood of aches, pains and underlying problems does, sadly, increase. Instead of waiting for symptoms to emerge, attend routine check-ups so that your doctor can monitor your health and offer any advice on proactive steps that you can take to keep fighting fit. If action does need to be taken, you’ll find that treatments tend to be less invasive, shorter and with fewer side effects when medical problems are caught swiftly. 

STRIVE FOR A VARIED DIET

A healthy diet in your later years can (and should!) certainly include a few treats now and then, but it’s vital to ensure you’re getting a range of minerals and nutrients, too. The best way to do this is via a balanced but diverse diet full of colour and variety, which is not only the most nutritious way to do things, but also tends to be the most delicious!

A recent report by the World Health Organisation has suggested that many seniors could be at increased risk of disease because they do not observe a healthy, balanced diet, with malnutrition a real risk to many elderly people. Whether that’s because your interest in food has slowly declined or they struggle to cook a meal from scratch each day, there are fortunately ways to get your diet back on track and enjoy the process of ageing, healthily and gracefully.

Indeed, with a potentially decreased dexterity and slowing sharpness, whipping up a dinner from scratch which contains the requisite carbohydrates, proteins, fruits, and vegetables, can be tough. It’s worth bearing in mind that there are now several brands which cater specifically to ‘mature tastes’. All of this will provide an incentive for a cleaner, healthier eating experience and also hopefully bring more pleasure to day-to-day life by making mealtimes more enjoyable.

Eating enough fibre, to help with digestion, and calcium, to maintain healthy teeth and bones, becomes particularly important as we age. Foods that are rich in fibre include leafy, dark green vegetables, fruit (particularly pears and berries) beans, pulses and lentils, and nuts and seeds. To ensure you’re getting enough calcium, it’s prudent to include dairy products like cheese, milk and yoghurt, as well as even more dark green leafy vegetables, in your diet.

SOCIALISE

A fascinating recent report in the Guardian spoke about the importance of nurturing your ‘social biome’, which Jeffrey Hall, professor of communication studies at the University of Kansas, defined as ‘’the individual ecosystem of relationships and interactions that shapes our emotional, psychological and physical health’’. 

As we age, this social biome tends to weaken, both in diversity and strength, which can cause real problems, health-wise. In fact, the article reported that there was increasingly irrefutable evidence that ‘’the best single predictor for your psychological wellbeing and health, for your physical wellbeing and health – even for your risk of dying – is the number and quality of friendships that you have.’’

Right now, the UK is suffering from something of a loneliness epidemic, and this is particularly pertinent amongst our elderly population. We’ve written previously about ways to remotely support elderly loved ones who are feeling lonely, and how to find help and companionship in your later years. Do check it out.

ACCEPT HELP

Accepting help when you need it is a critical part of healthy ageing. Rather than being a sign of weakness or decline, doing so can help you maintain your independence for longer, and is therefore one of the best things you can do. 

From letting a neighbour do your shopping for you to asking a family member to arrange live in care, there are numerous ways you can get the physical support you need as you get older. Rather than soldiering on and potentially not living your life to its fullest, asking for and accepting help can enhance your well-being, help you to retain your independence and make the ageing process a far happier one.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Living your best life isn’t only a concept reserved for Instagram influencers. If you want to make the most of every day, prioritising your health and well-being is a good place to start. From staying active and socialising, all the way to considering live in care, there are plenty of ways to ensure later life is enjoyable and rewarding.

It’s no wonder they’re known as your ‘golden years’; by placing a focus on healthy ageing, the best really is yet to come!

THE IDEAL DAY OUT IN MYKONOS FOR FOODIES: WHERE TO EAT IN MYKONOS OLD TOWN

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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THE IDEAL DAY OUT IN MYKONOS FOR FOODIES: WHERE TO EAT IN MYKONOS OLD TOWN

Though there are a few islands in this part of the Aegean Sea which lay claim to being The Queen of the Cyclades, it’s Mykonos which quite rightfully takes the crown. Here at IDEAL, the famous island is one member of the royal family who we’re quite happy to kneel before. Fortunately, the sand is soft and inviting and the only investiture a golden, glowing suntan.

Whilst Mykonos is perhaps most famous for being one of the world’s most glamorous party destinations, beloved of the LGBTQ+ community, champagne sipping celebrities and aspiring influencers alike, it’s also an island rich in history, culture and culinary wonder.

Whether you’re Greek island hopping, visiting the Island of the Winds to get swept up in the renowned 24 hour party lifestyle, or you’re looking for a calmer time in Mykonos, one of the island’s key attractions is its food. With the glamorous party set comes swanky fine dining restaurants, sure, but you’ll find tavernas and tradition here, too. So, set aside a day for some foodie thrills, with this IDEAL day out in Mykonos for foodies; here’s where to eat in Mykonos Old Town.

BREAKFAST AT GIORAS

Greece is blessed with some of the best bread, pastry and other baked goods in the world, some savoury, some sweet and all totally delicious. The country’s natural affinity with water, flour, the charcoal grill and wood-fired oven is indisputable; historians widely agree that it was the Ancient Greeks who perfected baking as a profession, developing techniques learnt from Egypt and adapting them to suit larger scale, industrial operations. Along the way, they’re widely attributed with inventing the free-standing, pre-heated oven with a door as a way of optimising the process of baking.

Anyway, enough of the history lesson, we’re hungry. We’re basing our IDEAL foodie day out in Mykonos in Chóra, the maze of narrow streets that make up the absurdly picturesque Mykonos Old Town. Within the cobbled lanes and courtyards, and buildings rendered in whitewash and the iconic Cycladic blue, you’ll find some fantastic bakeries with a diverse range of traditional bread, such as Bobota, Psomi Horiatiko, Skorthopsomo, and of course, Pitta.

But it’s only morning and we’ve a long day of eating ahead of us, so instead we’re looking for a gorgeous Greek pastry for breakfast. Wondering where to eat in Mykonos Old Town? At Gioras, the oldest working bakery on the island, which dates back to the 18th century, you’ll find a rustic set up, with white walls, wooden beams and a wood-fired oven. You’ll also find freshly baked Spanakopita, a spinach and feta pie wrapped in filo pastry which makes for a fantastic breakfast. 

Or, should you prefer something sweet to start your day, Melopita – honey pie – is served here. It’s a traditional Mykonian pastry, made with honey, cinnamon, and a cheese native to the island, Tirovolia, and is just delicious. Gioras bakery also does a superb version of baklava, if your sweet tooth isn’t yet sated; decisions, decisions!

Greece has a fantastic coffee culture, too, and there are several simple cafes lining the water in Chóra serving excellent cups of the good stuff. Vegera is a favourite; housed in a historic coffee shop and boasting gorgeous views of the water, the coffee is as good as the vista.

A MORNING ON AGIOS IOANNIS BEACH FOLLOWED BY A SEAFOOD LUNCH 

From Gioras, take a short stroll through the Old Town, along Agiou Efthimiou to Fabrika Bus Terminal, where regular public buses depart to all of Mykonos’ main beaches. Tickets are cheap, – you’ll pay, at most, €3 for a one way trip – and departure times and destinations are marked clearly at the terminals.

Though the island has a reputation for high energy parties, Mykonos can do serene and secluded just as well. For a morning on the beach with a great restaurants close by for lunch, Nammos at Psarou Beach, Principote at Panormos Beach and Alemagou at Ftelia Beach are resorts and beach clubs with their own restaurants offering great healthy dishes with Mediterranean menus of, primarily, fresh fish and seafood.

But since we only have a day and we’re keen to stay close to the Old Town, we’re heading to Agios Ioannis beach this morning, which is just ten minutes by bus from Fabrika. Buses leave every hour, at 30 minutes past the hour from 9:30 to 20:30, though this is subject to change. 

After a morning spent sprawling under the sun, a lunch at Hippie Fish will be well earned. Ignore the curious name; this restaurant sits in the most gorgeous location overlooking the sand and sea, and the menu is inspired by the latter’s bounty (thankfully, not the former, that would be gritty). Here, you can expect to eat sea urchins (a local delicacy) alongside freshly caught cockles and clams, and the restaurant’s superb shrimp and saffron risotto, too.

Oysters are also eaten enthusiastically on the island, and there are several nearby private beaches offering oyster tasting of produce handpicked by fishermen that morning. If you’re staying in a hotel, they’ll be able to arrange a lunchtime oyster picnic for you. Or, if you’re staying in one of Mykonos’ many luxury villas, then the guys at Mykonos Villas can arrange a private gourmet chef and a boat to your own private beach. That’s if you’re staying with the company, of course.

GRAB A LATE AFTERNOON GYROS AT LEONIDAS

Next on the IDEAL day out for foodies in Mykonos, we’re heading back to the Old Town for a spot of shopping and snacking. Matoyianni Street is the most famous street in the Old Town, full of cute cafes, bars and boutique shops. Here, it’s fun just to lose yourself in Chóra’s labyrinth of white-washed lanes, where every turn is a picture perfect Instagram shot, and discover your own favourite places as you go. 

In the high season, which tends to run from late May to early September, it gets chockablock in Chora, with the tight, pedestrianised lanes easily becoming congested with tourists. Matoyianni Street is no exception, so it’s best to visit outside of its busiest hours, which are between 10am and 5pm.

Greeks eat late, typically between 8 and 10 pm, and many tavernas and restaurants aren’t open before 7pm, so you’ll need something to tide you over until then. Tired of the crowds, we’re ducking off the main pedestrianised shopping area in search of gyros, Greece’s favourite fast food. Similar to shawarma, kebab or even tacos al pastor, chefs slice lamb or chicken off a vertical rotating spit (gyros translates as ‘turn’) and stuff slices into warm pita. Finally, it’s topped with tzatziki. 

There are several girádiko in town which are dedicated to serving the good stuff. Our favourite spot is Leonidas, next to Marietta’s Market and just a five minute stroll west of Matoyianni. The gyros here are exceptional and there are a handful of alfresco tables. Be warned; getting a seat is nigh on impossible. Fortunately, gyros are a real grab-and-go affair and can be enjoyed quite happily on the move.

Then, some more strolling and shopping before it’s time for a pre-dinner drink.

ENJOY AN OUZO AT KASTRO’S & WATCH THE SUNSET 

Perhaps the most photographed and charming area of ​​Mykonos, ‘Little Venice’ is a picturesque neighbourhood built on the sea during the 18th century, and perhaps the most popular part of Chóra. With restaurants and bars sitting right on the Aegean sea’s edge, if you think you’ve suddenly been transported to Italy’s famous city built on water, then you’re not alone – hence the name.

With the azure Aegean lightly lapping, literally, at your feet, and with views of Mykonos’ iconic white windmills behind, Little Venice is perhaps the most striking spot on the island. It’s not harmed by the fact that the sunset looks fantastic from here, so pull up a chair at one of Little Venice’s bars, enjoy a drink, and appreciate the view before dinner.

Greek has several spirits unique to the country, including a version of raki, tsipouro, masticha and kitron, but the dry, anise-flavoured ouzo is considered the national drink of Greece. The country has a keen ouzerie tradition; places essentially devoted to the art of pairing ouzo with nibbles, with cured octopus a particular favourite match to the cherished liquor. 

Alternatively, the Mykonos luxury accommodation experts at Elite Estates recommend enjoying ‘’a small bottle of tsipouro; a local tasty and usually homemade strong alcohol drink’’, which you can find in several bars around Chóra…well, it would be rude not to! 

Sadly, as money and tourism have flowed into Mykonos Old Town, the ouzeries have disappeared in favour of trendier joints, but many of Little Venice’s bars still have extensive spirits and meze menus, in the Greek tradition. Rather than shotting the stuff, locals like to drink it with a couple of ice cubes, which turns the clear liquor into an opaque, milky white, ideally accompanied by a few plates of mezedes. 

The best place to do so with views of the bay and sunset is undoubtedly Kastro’s, which has a spectacular location right next to the water. If you can get a table in their narrow, alley-like dining space, do so. It’s just magic and one of Mykonos’ most iconic spots. Here, you can enjoy a few appetizers with your ouzo, including classics like taramasalata, calamari, Mykonian cheese rolls and steamed mussels, or you can have a more fully-fledged sit down meal.

Whilst we adore the location at Kastro’s, we’ll save our appetite for a larger dinner a little later, at Niko’s Taverna, just a two minute walk away.

A LATE DINNER AT NIKO’S TAVERNA, LITTLE VENICE

Niko’s Taverna is one of Mykonos’ most beloved institutions, untroubled by more modern gastronomic flourishes and proudly, resolutely traditional in its food and service; a surprisingly tricky find in Mykonos, we should add! 

Here you’ll find Greek food cooked the old school way, with the taverna’s tables spilling out into the seafront square which sits in front of the restaurant and the atmosphere boisterous and convivial from early afternoon until late on into the evening. As we said earlier, the Greeks like to eat late, taking their time over the meal and conversation, so it’s best to book a table here, particularly if you’re planning on a late dinner, which, after all the food we’ve eaten today, we most certainly are.

Your forward planning will be rewarded with the freshest fish, cooked with respect and free from frippery. The lobster spaghetti is rightly considered a speciality of the restaurant but even better is the octopus and orzo. The smartest order, though, is simply grilled fish – often local bream or bass – caught that day and sold by weight (always reassuring) and a selection of traditional meze. Bliss!

DRINKS & DANCING ALONG MATOYIANNI STREET

Well, considering Mykonos has something of a reputation as a party island, it wouldn’t be right to end the night now. Instead, let’s see this one off in style with some drinks and dancing. In Matoyianni, you’ll find Astra and Queen bar, two perennially popular late night haunts which reliably begin the evening in a sophisticated way but as the night progresses, begin to let their hair down. The later you stay, the more raucous they become. 

For something a little more sedate, and not to be confused with London’s cherished steam bun restaurant group, BAO boasts beautiful views of the bay and inventive cocktails. Ouzo, raki or even some Greek wine? Choose your poison, just make sure it’s not served by Achlys…

See you tomorrow to nurse our hangovers over another Mykoni pastry? You know you want to.

6 TIPS FOR MAKING A SUCCESS OF YOUR SUMMER GARDEN PARTIES

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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6 TIPS FOR MAKING A SUCCESS OF YOUR SUMMER GARDEN PARTIES

In just over a week, the government’s next stage in their gradual lifting of lockdown restrictions commences. Rejoice! From the 29th March, groups of six will be able to meet in outdoor spaces and private gardens, paving the way for a Spring speculatively featuring friends and family (all law-abiding and socially distanced, of course).

Whilst not wishing to rain on everyone’s private, six person parade, we should remind you that April is just around the corner, and the UK’s inclement weather listens to no government. Cue those infamous showers and the prospect of garden parties getting well and truly rained off.

Not to worry. From May 17th, outdoor gatherings of up to 30 people will be allowed, and on June 21st onwards, it’s anything goes; with all the usual caveats thrown in, of course. By the time these restrictions are lifted, the sun will be shining, shorts and T-shirts will be the UK’s only uniform, and the aroma of burnt budget burgers will be wafting all about the place. We can’t wait.

Suddenly, everyone’s going to be hosting Spring and Summer garden parties, barbeques and bashes, and we suspect things might get a little competitive. Come out on top, with these 6 tips for making a success of your Summer garden parties.

PREPARATION IS EVERYTHING 

Just like hosting a great dinner party, preparation is key to a successful Summer garden party. Marinating, dry-rubbing, slicing, dicing, par-boiling, searing, half-steaming, picking and chopping…so much of the work, food wise, can happen well in advance of your party if you design your menu right. 

In fact, the only elements of your meal that genuinely need to be left to the last minute are the dressing of salads (premature dressing leads to limp leaves), a final sprinkle of seasoning, and any à-la-minute cooking of meat which only needs to kiss the grill before it’s done. 

If you’re concerned about timings, why not slow roast a whole leg of lamb on the barbecue, ensuring its meltingly tender and not requiring any last minute faff? Or, consider hosting a fish barbecue, with whole fish like mackerel only needing a few minutes on a white-hot grill. Magic!

Vegetables can be prepped in advance, too. Simply steam or boil vegetables in advance, then ‘shock’ them in ice cold water to stop them overcooking and discolouring. Then, just before serving, warm them through over the coals, imparting a beautiful smoky flavour and a few grill marks whilst still maintaining the vegetable’s integrity.

Finally, prepare some sauces, salsas and dips the day before, and bring them out around half an hour before everyone sits down to eat to ensure the chill’s been taken off. Hey presto!

Being stuck in the kitchen, flapping over the sides instead of charming and taking care of your guests is never a good look. Make your life easy by preparing what you can in advance. Or make your life even easier, and ask all your guests to bring a dish with them. Just a thought…

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE TOOLS 

Lighting a BBQ in Britain’s oft inclement weather – it can be one of the most frustrating moments of the whole summer. To make things simple for yourself, consider investing in a chimney starter – these chimney like devices push the flames through the charcoal, allowing for just the right amount of air circulation to get your fire going and ensuring that all your coals are at an even temperature when you’re ready to start cooking.

Don’t stop there; a digital probe thermometer will be your new best friend, if you’re keen on precision cooking (and avoiding salmonella!). This trusty tool allows for accurate, safe cooking by checking the internal temperature of your food and ensuring it’s cooked to yours and your guests’ exacting standards. Repeat after us; “probe, don’t poison”. 

Finally, if you’re considering grilling a fish on the BBQ and are concerned about the near inevitable skin-stickage, then there’s a tool-based solution for that, too. So many keen grillers steer clear of barbecuing whole fish because of its tendency to stick to the grill bars, but fear not; an investment in a specially designed fish basket (sometimes called a clamp) will see you right. It’s essentially a fish basket which you can ‘clamp’ shut around the fish, allowing for easy flipping and no sticking to the grill.

Other than that, a pair of heat resistant barbecue tongs, a fish/burger slice and a grill brush will see you right for many summers to come.

KEEPING THINGS WARM 

“Hurry up and eat before the food gets cold.”

If you’re hosting a larger gathering outdoors this Summer, then there’s always a danger that elements of your meal – whether it’s hot off the barbecue or coming out from your indoor kitchen – will go cold before guests have properly enjoyed it. 

You know how this story goes by now; guests are distracted by Champers and chatter, the cook gets sidelined by a game of beer pong, the kids are hungry before the adults…all of which requires some careful juggling of food prep, cooking and serving to ensure everything arrives at its optimum temperature.

When it comes to keeping your food warm, there’s a whole host of gadgets to help you out. If you’re hosting a large gathering and making easy, one-pot dishes to please a big crowd, then a Ban Marie food warmer works wonders in keeping stews, ragu, curries and chills at just the right temperature. A trusty slow cooker will also keep these dishes warmer for longer, or may we suggest investing in a rice cooker? They’re brilliant at holding all manner of things at the right temperature, and have uses way beyond just rice!

Should you be hosting a barbecue for the kids, then hot dogs are obligatory, don’t you think? It can be a pain keeping a party’s worth of sausages cooked and hot until everyone’s ready to eat, but a sausage warmer (must. avoid. making. coarse. joke) is the perfect solution for keeping hot dogs or sausages ready to serve for longer.

If you don’t have the budget to blow on new gadgets, then a trusty roll of tin foil will keep things insulated. Alternatively, you could cleverly redeploy a cool box – while they are primarily designed to keep things cold, the insulation means you can use them to keep things warm, too. 

And if you’re keen to warm the cockles of your guests, too, then place a keen focus on spice when considering your garden party menu. Chilli in all its glorious forms offsets the onset of a chilly Summer evening, whilst aromatic spices and flavourings bring a different kind of warmth and comfort to the table, too. In this respect, fermented sides like kimchi or sauerkraut are always a winner.  

SERVING DRINKS

Speaking of warm things – we don’t know about you, but one of the most annoying tasks of a large gathering is making a round of teas or coffees for everyone, then having to spend the rest of the afternoon by the kettle, trying to count the right amount of mugs and inevitably forgetting one person wanted coffee instead of tea. A simple solution? Allow guests to make their own hot beverage with a handy hot water dispenser, which are available online for around £50.

And now, onto the cold stuff. There’s nothing better than enjoying a cold, refreshing glass of white wine or beer in the sun. On the flip side, there’s nothing worse than grinning and bearing a lukewarm version.. Actually, we could think of loads of things worse, but anyway.

Enter rapid drink chillers. After that inevitable shop run to pick up more booze, these things can chill your bottles of wine and cans of beer in a matter of minutes. We’re talking ice cold here, and while we don’t really understand how the rapid cooling technology works, we’re certainly thankful for it. 

Some of the most regarded models on the market include the Cooper Cooler which takes approximately six minutes to cool a 750 mil bottle of wine and the Zero Rapid Drinks Chiller, and pledges to take your bottles from room temperature to sub zero in as little as 3 minutes and keep your drinks cooler for longer than any ice bucket. The choice is yours!

If you’re not in the market for a rapid drink chiller, then the wine cooler market has improved massively in recent years, way beyond a metal bucket and some quickly disappearing ice. Promising to keep your drinks perfectly chilled for longer, may we suggest a cooling stick that lowers the wine temperature from the inside out? Priced at £19.99, The ChillCore 3 in 1 chills your bottle in 15 minutes and helps your drink stay cold for up to two hours. Just store it in the freezer and use as required.

KEEPING THINGS WITH WINGS AWAY 

Flies, wasps and other things with wings tend to make a beeline (ahem) for Summer garden parties. First things first, never swat a wasp; it’s inhumane and you might inflame the situation, too. 

According to Somerset Live, “A swatted wasp releases a chemical that is picked up by other wasps and they see it as a call to arms and come flying to the scene with stingers at the ready’’. Now that catastrophe has been averted, let’s talk about preventing them arriving on the scene in the first place.  

Repelling wasps is a good first line of defence; prevention is better than cure, and all that. A tried and tested trick is to hang up crumpled brown paper bags, which gives the illusion of wasp nests and sends a message to other wasps that the territory is occupied. If you’re keen for something a little more concrete, then covering food is the best way to deter wasps and flies – mesh food covers which act like a tent are ideal, here.  

Mosquitoes are another notorious warm-weather pest. You’ve probably used citronella candles in the past to deter them? Well, according to Science Mag, whilst citronella candles are great for setting a mood, they’re not actually all that well suited to the very thing they’re advertised to do; repel mosquitoes. Instead, an outdoor electric or battery-powered fan will best keep these bugs at bay; mosquitos are weak flyers and are loathe to fly into a fan’s breeze. Moreover, your guests can enjoy the fan’s cooling effect on a sticky, humid day. 

If you’re doing things close to the beach, then you’ll no doubt be familiar with the threat of seagulls, whether they’re swooping in to swipe the chips straight out of your hand or they’re stealing a whole leg of lamb from your barbecue (trust us, it happens!). 

Some experts suggest dying your food green to save your sandwiches from greedy gulls, since they’re confused by camouflaged food. Hey, who isn’t? If that sounds like a lot of effort, then other authorities on the subject suggest staring down the seagull until it flies off. Hmmm, perhaps we’ll just eat indoors.

TAKE COVER 

Speaking of those refreshing breezes, if you don’t want your guests to melt (yep, even British summers are getting hot) then it’s essential you create some shade. In the last few years, we’ve seen some of the hottest summers since records began. While of course we should all be focusing on reducing our carbon footprint to help mitigate global warming – perhaps extinguish that barbie with haste – it’s a good idea to ensure your garden has a good amount of shade to ensure the comfort of your guests.

A permanent awning is a good idea here and will allow you to make the most out of your garden this summer. Not only do they provide shade, but they protect from rain, too, guaranteeing your outdoor gathering goes ahead, whatever the weather. Awnings also allow a section of your garden to double up as summer living space – known as ‘zoning’ – with outside furniture like a dining bench or comfortable outdoor chairs and even sofas able to provide enough seating and space for everyone.

Though you might be keeping guests dry with your awning, it’s certainly not wise to light the grill under one. On the flip side, remember that rain and fire don’t mix. As such, it’s a good idea to get a barbecue with a lid to ensure seamless cooking and avoid any disappointed guests!

THE BOTTOM LINE

We’ve shared every secret under the sun for a successful summer party, giving you all the tools to host the season’s hottest event. Now, can we assume our invite’s in the post?

Check out our article on  6 IDEAL tips for creating a backyard built for entertaining and 5 IDEAL ways to raise your Summer BBQ game if you’re looking for even more inspiration!

10 IDEAL FOODIE DESTINATIONS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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10 IDEAL FOODIE DESTINATIONS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

New bucket list entry anyone? For many, 2018’s announcement by Trip Advisor of its Top Ten Foodie Cities was a direct challenge to the intrepid and inquisitive amongst us. Could a foodie world tour be logically arranged to take in the ten cities from the list?

In short, only if you’re easy about the cash and fuel you’d burn along the way; a round the world flight ticket, taking in the U.K, Europe, the States and Asia, with sufficient stops permitted, would cost upwards of £10’000 and 30’000 miles. In shorter, just no.

Something more manageable and no less delicious, then. Something less costly, and less damaging to the environment, too. Something focused on taking in the cornucopia of culinary delights of one particular region. And what part of the world has the finest, best value food around? Why, Southeast Asia, of course.

Let’s face it; travel in 2021 comes with its own risks and obstacles, but with news that Thailand is planning to open its borders to travellers later in the year and the hope that neighbouring countries will follow suit, we think it’s safe to dream a little once again. With this in mind, here are 10 IDEAL foodie destinations in Southeast Asia.

BANGKOK, THAILAND

You won’t go hungry in the most visited city in the world. Oh no. There is food everywhere and it’s almost exclusively delicious. The wonderful thing about eating in Bangkok is the amazing range of Thai (and international) cuisine on offer. In Bangkok can dine at street level for pennies, or sky high for prices which match.

According to research and this striking visual from Amica International, one of the defining aspects of any ‘foodie’ city is the diversity of the cuisine on offer – and there’s no lack of that in Bangkok. Here you can sample the delights of an Indian curry in Pahurat (Little India), chow down on some Peking duck in China town or delight in French fine dining at a Michelin starred restaurant.

You can even get a real taste of Italy at some of the best Italian restaurants the world has to offer, and having a good offering of Italian food (according to Amica) is another element that makes a great foodie city. Whatever you’re in the mood for the city will provide.

But you’d be crazy to come here and go all international on us. Particularly exciting in the Thai capital right now is the new wave of Thai chefs intent on modernising the country’s cuisine while staying true to its roots and history, and supporting the finest local producers along the way.

If you can snag a table, 100 Mahaseth and 80/20 are perhaps the finest realisations of this ethos and the hottest tickets in town right now. We’ve written more about our top tips for eating out in Bangkok here; check it out.

SINGAPORE

For the box tickers; the news has just dropped that Asia has a new Number One Restaurant, and it’s in Singapore. This comes as no surprise; the city is awash with fine dining of a Francophile bent and as such commands the attention of international foodie awards.

Indeed, the city boasts 39 Michelin stars and plenty more courting that kind of recognition. But we promised something a little less damaging to the purse. Fortunately, and somewhat surprisingly in a city of affluence and aspiration, cheap eats can be found everywhere.

The food is a glorious amalgamation of the many historic, ethnic and cultural influences of the place; Malaysian, Chinese, Portuguese…they all play a part. When dining out, locals often eat at the ubiquitous Hawker Centres which are found all over town.

Perhaps the best is Lau Pa Sat (also known as Telok Ayer Market) where you’ll find a huge diversity of dishes and styles. Singapore also lays claim to the world’s cheapest Michelin star meal at Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle. It’s a simple, street food stall serving the national dish expertly and at just over a £1. And yep, you guessed it, you’ll have to queue. There is now a second branch, Hawker Chan, which seats nearly 100.

Daniel Zemands flickr

PHUKET, THAILAND

The island of Phuket is a place of clashing contradiction, with the brash and bawdy Patong Beach in direct, jarring conflict with the striking natural beauty of the island and the serene, multicultural Old Town, with its colourful Sino Portuguese architecture, Chinese temples and shrines, and unique cuisine representative of this rich diversity.

Dive into a world of culinary curiosity to enjoy the best of Phuket; a truly glorious amalgamation of the island’s heritage and celebratory of its inherent contrasts, with Chinese, Malaysian, Singaporean and Muslim influences abound.

The local breakfast, in particular, is a thing of wonder; freshly slapped and charcoal grilled roti bread served alongside a deep, heady curry sauce and sweet, milky coffee. If that doesn’t get you going in the morning, then only a defibrillator might. And of course, owing to its proximity to the sea’s bounty, fish is done superbly here, with the fine balancing act between high spice and soothing coconut or crunchy vegetables that Southern Thai food does so well.

Don’t leave without trying the crab curry at Raya Restaurant, a place so popular it’s spawned sister restaurants One Chun and Chomchan in the city (both equally brilliant) as well as a second Raya in Bangkok. Heaven.

CHIANG MAI, THAILAND

Eating is the national pastime in Thailand; for pleasure, as a merit-maker, a show of gratitude, a welcome, everything. Our ‘how are you?’ is their ‘have you eaten rice yet?’. In Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand’s main tourist hub, the unique cuisine of the area (known as Lanna food) is at its best.

Everyone’s first foodie stop is to eat the delicious noodle and curry broth Khao Soi and Chiang Mai boasts many, many purveyors of the good stuff. Also superb in the city are the endless array of grilled meats. S&P Chicken is perennially popular with both tourists and locals for their brined, marinated, slow grilled poussin served with tangy homemade dipping sauces. And you won’t miss (or want to miss) the North’s famous sausage, sai ua, which is full of herbs, spice and flavour. Just amazing.

HANOI, VIETNAM

Hanoi; at once relentless, maddening, baffling and beautiful, has some of the best street food the world has to offer, let alone Southeast Asia. Where do we start? Well, it’s got to be pho, the iconic noodle soup which is doing its best to take over the world. There just aren’t enough superlatives.

It is wise, though, to seek out the best version you can, as the difference between a good and great bowl is huge. For beef, we’d point you in the direction of 49 Bat Dan street or 10 Ly Quoc Su; the finest in their field, in the city and therefore, by rights, the world. If it’s chicken you’re after, Pho Ga Mai Anh on Le Van Huu street is ace.

Right next door to that family run shop is the famous Obama Bun Cha, where the then president (oh, how we miss him) famously enjoyed a bowl of delicious chargrilled pork over rice noodles with Anthony Bourdain (oh, how we miss him, too).

Perhaps the greatest dish in the whole city though is cha ca; catfish marinated in turmeric and shrimp paste, fried in an aromatic oil. Add loads of spring onion and serve with herbs and fermented rice noodles, and be careful not to let your eyes roll back in your head. The best version (and the inventors of the dish) is found at Cha Ca La Vong, on Cha Ca street.

HUE, VIETNAM

Sure, Hanoi’s food is amazing. And sure, Vietnam’s south could also stake a fair claim of having the best regional food in the country. But those who ‘know’ go to Hue, the former royal capital, to eat. Here you’ll find a cuisine all of its own, led by the headlining act bun bo hue. That’s a deep, savoury and spicy broth which all the best cuts of pork, blood and beef have made their home; the food stalls of the city’s Dong Ba market sling an excellent version.

Also superb and native to the city is banh xeo, a type of crispy pancake filled with minced pork and prawns, which you eat wrapped in lettuce and enjoy with the ever present bowl of fresh herbs. Take us back.

LUANG PRABANG, LAOS

Laotian food isn’t perhaps as internationally recognised as it should be, but that’s surely soon set to change. In fact, much of the Thai food we enjoy with abandon has its roots in the country; the papaya salads, grilled chickens, laaps and more originated in Laos.

Luang Prabang is a great place to start discovering this country’s diverse and delicious cuisine as it has a great mix of street food, markets and the emergence of a few fine dining places owing to its recent surge in tourism. Particularly splendid is newly opened Paste (a sister restaurant to the much lauded Bangkok restaurant of the same name).

But if it’s cheap eats you’re after, head to the string of great little eateries on the south bank of Mekong river which runs right through the town. Be sure to order the salt grilled fish which you wrap in lettuce leaves and dip in a variety of fiery dipping sauces; that’s ‘miang pla pao’ to the locals.

SIEM RIEP, CAMBODIA

Cambodia’s Siem Riep may be compact in size, but culturally and culinarily it packs one hell of a punch. It’s most famous as the gateway town serving the world famous religious site Angkor Wat, but the town itself is brimming with brilliant food. Our pick of the bunch is Spoons, a celebration of the country’s much underrated cuisine and a philanthropic operation to boot. Cuisine Wat Damark is another superb Siem Riep restaurant, doing Khmer fine dining with respect for its heritage at the very highest level.

GEORGETOWN, MALAYSIA

Malaysian, Thai, Indian and Chinese influences meet here to provide a foodie mecca pretty much unrivalled anywhere else on the planet. It’s probably the cheapest place to eat well on our list, with Hawker Centres slinging bowl upon bowl of fragrant soups and rich, deep curries for the price of pennies.

The national dish of char koay teow (a smoking hot wok stir fry of seafood and noodles) is a must try here, and the Penang version of laksa known as assam also shouldn’t be missed. It’s quite different from the laksa most of us are familiar with, shipping out the coconut milk and instead given richness and depth through tamarind water and dried fish flakes. Go get it.

JAKARTA, INDONESIA

We couldn’t leave Southeast Asia without dropping by the biggest, most mega metropolis in the region. And where there are this many people and this richer history, there is always food cooked with pride. Look beyond the nasi goreng and rendang (admittedly superb) and seek out the lesser known but no less delicious dishes of soto betawi (a creamy beef soup native to Jakarta and served with pickles) and ikan bakar, a splendid way of grilling fish which is popular in the city.

5 OF THE BEST HAIRSTYLES FOR NURSES WITH LONG HAIR

Editorial Team
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5 OF THE BEST HAIRSTYLES FOR NURSES WITH LONG HAIR

Whilst we wouldn’t usually dream of suggesting directions on a dress or hair code for a whole profession, nurses have to follow stricter guidelines than most when it comes to how they present themselves. Everything from makeup to nurse’s uniform styles is tightly controlled to prevent infection and keep patients, colleagues and the nurses themselves safe.

Should you be a medical professional or simply a curious sort, then what are the best hairstyles for nurses to wear? Here are 5 of the best hairstyles for nurses with long hair.

SAFETY FIRST

Ok, we know that ‘safety’ isn’t exactly a hairstyle, however, it’s worth bearing in mind that you have to consider safety above everything else as a nurse. While you might find a hairstyle which looks fantastic on you, it may not be suitable for your healthcare roles. Sadly, the latter takes precedence over the former in this demanding, cherished role. 

In general, nurse hairstyles should either be short or, if long, tied back. While highlights, striking colours and dyed hair is permitted in some workplaces, it might be safer to ‘err on the side of caution’ by sticking to your natural colour. You should always consult your workplace guidelines before committing to a style, as every private hospital and NHS trust differs. For general advice, check out NHS England’s Guidance on uniform and workwear policies, but do bear in mind that there are some divergences on rules according to trust.

Beyond hairstyles, even your choice of haircare matters, some nurses prefer using a natural shampoo bar and conditioner to keep their routine quick, effective, and free from harsh chemicals that can irritate the scalp during long shifts.

Once you’ve familiarised yourself with the guidance, these are some styles you might want to try.

FRENCH BRAID

The French braid is a classic style that works best for those who have below shoulder-length hair. This style incorporates three strands that are braided together from the head’s brow to below the neck, and is both stylish and suitable for long hours spent nursing.

French braids are the go-to style for nurses with long hair because it’s such a reliable design. A well-plaited braid will last all day without strands of hair coming loose and will remain neat throughout. When dealing with patients, the last thing you want is your plait coming undone.

The length of a French braid means it goes very well with tunic dresses; if you prefer wearing a dress instead of separates, this could be the style for you.

TOP KNOT BUN

Perhaps one of the more famous matron-style hairstyles is the top knot bun. Again, this is another style that works well for nurses with longer hair.

It involves the hair being curled into a crown and fastened on top of the head, with Rihanna and Gigi Hadid both seen wearing this style regularly. For experienced and aspiring nurses alike, this remains a popular choice.

What makes the top knot bun such a good style for nurses is that all hair remains tucked away on top of the head. With no hair dangling, there’s no chance of any straying into the wrong place and causing an infection control concern. Or, simply, being a nuisance. As the top knot bun is such a classic style, it looks great paired with one of Alexandra’s classic cut tunics or tunic dresses, available from their healthcare section.

BRAIDED BUNS

For afro and curly hair, braided buns with cornrows is an incredibly pretty and low-maintenance style. This type of style has longevity (and can be left in for weeks if you look after them properly) and is popular with nurses who don’t have much time on their hands. If you have box braids, wrapping them into a classic cinnamon bun style looks elegant and is practical, too.

Another style of braided bun ideal for curly or straight hair is the braided French Twist. This combines the textures of the French braid with the functional practicality of the top knot bun. Many nurses prefer this style to the top knot bun or the French braid because of its durability throughout a tough day and its simple elegant appearance.

A third, easy braided bun style involves tying your hair back into pigtails, plaiting them and then intertwining the plaited pigtails together and fixing them with hair grips.

FRENCH ROLL

An exquisite hairstyle that never goes out of fashion, the French Roll (nope, not a delicious breakfast option) is another popular choice with nurses. If you’ve got long hair, you can try this style out by curling your hair up and pinning it to the back of your head. Keira Knightly and Emma Stone have famously sported this hairstyle, favouring it’s sophisticated aesthetic.

What makes the French Roll so popular with nurses is its sheer practicality and elegance. Once put in place, the roll will stay in place all day, no matter how long your shift is. What’s more, it will look reliably effortless. If you want a professional look without compromising glamour, the French Roll is the style for you. Match this hairstyle with a spot tunic for a contemporary, professional look.

THE BOTTOM LINE

While nurses have many safety precautions to adhere to when considering which hairstyle to wear, that doesn’t mean they have to sacrifice style completely. There are so many classy and secure ways for a nurse to style their hair and we’re sure you’ll find one that conforms to your workplace guidelines and your own unique tastes.

If you’re looking for new nurse uniforms or accessories – such as skull caps and head scarfs – then check out Alexandra workwear. Alexandra is the UK’s #1 supplier of medical workwear for healthcare professionals, supplying private hospitals and the NHS.

5 WORKING FROM HOME HABITS WHICH COULD BE HARMING YOUR HEALTH & PRODUCTIVITY

Editorial Team
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5 WORKING FROM HOME HABITS WHICH COULD BE HARMING YOUR HEALTH & PRODUCTIVITY

And the IDEAL ways to remedy them.

A year ago yesterday, everything changed. Since 23rd March 2020 and the government’s lockdown announcement, the UK has experienced a dramatic shift in our social and working situations. Being asked to stay at home as much as possible means that many workers have found themselves moved from office blocks to kitchen tables setups, bringing cheer and challenge in equal measure. 

Yep, the shift has brought about seismic change to our work/life balance, for better and for worse. In fact, the Office for National Statistics measured that in April 2020, 46.6 per cent of people were working from home. A staggering 86 per cent of these people declared they had done so as a consequence of the pandemic.

Some have managed to juggle these two competing factions dexterously, finding time for exercise, downtime and long, leisurely lunches amongst the Zoom conferences and email exchanges which now define the day. 

Others, however, have struggled to draw boundaries between home and work, and are welcoming the prospect of returning to a central office. In addition to these homeworkers, 4.7 million people were still on furlough by the end of January 2021, with many desperate to get going (and get earning) once again. 

Whilst we’re loath to take sides here (remember the utter debacle of the government’s ‘return to the office’ message, the Dettol tube advert fiasco, and MPs imploring us to mourn Pret last summer?), it’s essential you’re prepared for the ‘new normal’, whether that means continuing to work from home or returning to a physical workplace.

Should you be looking to adjust to a more permanent, sustainable working-from home situation, or you’re keen to re-enter the workplace through the front door and on the front foot, then it’s essential that you ensure your domestic routines are sustainable and productive.

With new home-working routines, it’s unsurprising that we’ve adopted a few habits which have been hindering the harmony of the working day. With that in mind, here are 5 working from habits which could be harming your health and productivity, and the IDEAL ways to remedy them.

FROM BED TO DESK & DESK TO BED

Without a commute to separate home and work, the pressure to get a headstart on a day of deadline-meeting can be pervasive. On the flip side, at the business end of the day, the same overwhelming compulsion to work late, since you’re basically living in your home office anyway, can be just as strong.

This gradual slip into working unacknowledged overtime can happen without you realising, but doing so increases your risk of burnout and being exploited by your employers, too. It’s essential, then, that you draw distinctions between work and home, physically and mentally.

Do all you can to get into a predictable routine of getting out of bed at the same time each day, and before work, schedule in an activity between waking up and sitting down to work. This might be completing a crossword over breakfast, tackling a yoga session, or even a walk around the block in lieu of a daily commute. 

Following a routine at the end of the working day, too. Shut up shop for the day with a certain ceremoniousness, even if all that means is switching on your ‘out of office’ auto reply or shutting down your laptop and putting it in its case until tomorrow, helping you enter ‘home’ mode.

If you’re returning to the office, do make sure that you saviour some downtime on the tube or on your walk, rather than stressing about deadlines off-the-clock.

BUSINESS-SUPER-CASUAL

Those distinctions between work and home have been somewhat blurred due to our increasingly comfortable clothing choices as the pandemic has worn on.

Our morning routines have changed as a consequence of working from home, make no mistake. Where once we would prepare ourselves to leave the house feeling fresh and ready for the day ahead, now you may expect to wake up and immediately land yourself in front of your computer to work, and our choice of clothes has grown to reflect this most comfortable of transitions. 

The short commute between the bedroom and home office has led to the rise of a looser, more comfortable work attire, where workers no longer need to get dressed in their usual business suits or smart-casual wear for the office. Instead, wearing jogger bottoms, comfortable hoodies, or even pyjamas has become the standard apparel of homeworking. 

Back in October 2020, one fashion analyst index reported that the number of sold-out sportswear items had increased by 17 per cent in 2020 compared to the previous year, a consequence of lockdown restrictions.

It’s clear that comfortable clothing has become the go-to choice for many people working at home. For the majority, this is marvellous, and has one of the more liberating elements of working from home. In fact, some industry experts have predicted that the office dress code will likely never return.

But for those who are keen to return to the central office, ready to embrace small talk and smart clothing choices once again, the coming months should be all about getting ready to remotivate our laundry routines. Understanding the best way to look after all those new smart work outfits we’ve been buying online lately, with delicate handwashes and proper treatment of our tumble dryers, is going to be crucial to stepping back in to the office with confidence. 

REGULAR TRIPS TO THE OFFICE KITCHEN

Not everyone has had the luxury of a dedicated home office space. Instead, many of us have been relegated to our bedrooms, living rooms or kitchens to get work done. Basically, wherever the internet works best, we’ve settled in for the past year.

However, if you’ve found yourself sitting at the kitchen table on a chair that’s usually reserved for dining, you may have fallen into the trap of temptation. Be honest; how many times have you peered into the fridge already today, looking for snacks and meaning? 

The temptation for home office workers across the UK during the pandemic has been to spend more time in the kitchen and less at the desk, in the name of both distraction and deliciousness, but that risks presenting its own unique problems.

Now, don’t get us wrong, we’re all for snacking. However, there are specific snacking practices you should follow when working from home, which when done right can keep your body healthy, happy, satiated, and your mind distraction free.

Set, strictly followed meal times can help keep your cravings at bay, making you less likely to snack in the interim period. Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated is a key defence against snack cravings, too. Or, consider creating a snack box full of healthy bites like carrot sticks, edamame beans and nuts, proactively seeing off the urge to snack, rather than regretting that second packet of crisps after it’s happened.

TECH-NECK

Another victim of homeworking is our poor posture. The use of laptops and makeshift office furniture, whether coffee tables or unstable wooden dining chairs, has forced some unusual working positions. Hunched backs, numb legs and stiff necks aren’t necessarily symptoms of the coronavirus, but they do indicate that you’ve been working from home for too long.

Between laptops and smartphones merging the worlds of life and work, a lack of physical exercise is another cause of what has been coined as ‘tech-neck’. However, the remedy is surprisingly simple.

Sitting up straight and doing some healthy stretches (both warming up and down, pre and post work) can relieve the pain and improve the consequential headaches and fatigue that the condition can create. It won’t be long before we can return to our ergonomic office chairs and large desktop displays. But until then, looking after yourselves with a bit of relaxation and yoga can go a long way. No one wants to lumber back into the office with a crooked back and sore neck. It’s not a good look or feeling.

SUCCUMBING TO SOCIAL MEDIA DISTRACTION

We get the irony; you’re reading this piece while you’re meant to working, right? But home working has inevitably led to more smartphone and social media use, with HR News reporting this month that screen time had increased by 73% in the UK during the global pandemic. Rather than keep you distracted for longer, we’ll save us both some time and redirect you to this guide on 7 of the worst working from home distractions and the IDEAL solutions to help you stay focused when working remotely.

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