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LOCKDOWN LIVING ALONE: 5 PLACES TO FIND FRIENDSHIP & SUPPORT ONLINE

Editorial Team
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LOCKDOWN LIVING ALONE: 5 PLACES TO FIND FRIENDSHIP & SUPPORT ONLINE

If you’ve alighted on this page because you’re living alone during lockdown, firstly, how are you? We hope you’re doing okay, and if you ever need someone to talk to, don’t hesitate to scroll down to the very bottom of our home page and click Say Hello. 

Lockdown in the UK has led to a loneliness epidemic, with the BBC reporting in November 2020 that 8% of the adult population (that’s a whopping 4.2 million) are ‘’always or often lonely’’. Four months of strict measures later, and we can only imagine how that number has increased.

If you feel like you’re lacking social contact, camaraderie and companionship, then you don’t have to do this thing alone. There are support groups, professionals, community organisations and more, all ready to lend a helping hand and a friendly ear to those feeling isolated. If you’re living alone in lockdown, then here are 5 places to find friendship and support online.

VIRTUAL CLUBS & CLASSES

Book clubs, pottery classes, poetry readings and 5-a-side football…in the pre-pandemic world we were spoilt for choice regarding the various clubs and classes we could join in order to nurture a niche passion. Of course, that was only half of it; the primary reason for attending these various get togethers was to meet new people and, hopefully, make new friends.

Fortunately, like so much of the rest of the world, these various clubs and classes have moved online, and still represent a great way to interact with strangers and form meaningful connections. 

Perhaps the most popular (and populated) are online group exercise classes; DigMe is widely used across the UK, and offers a 21 days for free and a trial community class to help get going. Alternatively, you could give their online yoga classes a go; they have four different instructors to choose from and that invaluable access to interaction with both the instructor and the group.

Or, if you feel more comfortable in chorus, there are a whole host of fantastic online choirs you could join to harness that sense of community you’re missing. Some of the best include:

  • The Sofa Singers, who gather every week at 7:30pm on a Tuesday and 11am on a Friday.
  • Sing Out Strong, who place a strong focus on mental health and well being.
  • Or for something a little, shall we say, stronger, it has to be Rock Choir? Sign of the Horns at the ready!

There are also online book clubs offering community, support and discussion active across the UK right now. Check out these useful round-up of 9 of the best to join now .

COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS

Obviously, you don’t need to be engaged in an activity to reach out for support. There are loads of community based support groups and forums currently doing good work online, connecting people and offering peer-to-peer support to those who need it.

It’s been reported in recent years that the elderly, in particular, are suffering from a loneliness epidemic, and COVID has only exacerbated this. Reengage is a charity which facilitates contact between seniors who may be suffering from loneliness; right now, their ‘call companions’ platform is doing great work. On the other end of the phone, check out Age UK’s campaign, where you can become an Age UK digital buddy and provide companionship to those in need.

Similarly, Befriending Networks exist across the country, connecting those who are feeling isolated and alone with kind-hearted folk who are always up for a chat. You can find a Befriender here. 

Mind, the UK’s largest mental health charity, also boasts a large, diverse and support online community, Side by Side, where you can find peer-to-peer support in the form of forums, discussion groups and support via private, one-to-one messaging with like minded, supportive people. The forum is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is moderated everyday between 8:30am and midnight. 

REACH OUT TO A PROFESSIONAL

This has been an incredibly tough time for everyone, but particularly for those living alone, who don’t have someone to turn to regularly. If you feel like you need someone to talk to in a more professional capacity, with all the treatment recommendations and expertise that entails, then you can find that help available online, too.

Though speaking to a professional won’t necessarily offer you the companionship you’re seeking, if you’re in need of support and advice, it can really help. Check out the UK’s Counselling Directory to find a therapist today.

Group therapy is another option available, and may help those suffering from low self-esteem or lack of confidence to open up in a supportive, confidential setting. Facilitated by a professional and populated by like-minded people, many have found such therapy to be profoundly effective in finding support and advice in novel places. If you’re keen to learn more about whether group therapy is right for you, then click here.

APPS

Just as the pairing of smartphones and location services made finding a romantic partner as easy as a few swipes and a corny chat up line, so too can you now find friends – actual friends – easily using apps. Bumble BFF is a way of expanding your social circle using the same interface as a dating app would; there’s a photo, a brief bio, and the chance to match with likeminded people, have a chat, and establish a connection.

Other similar apps which help match lonely folk seeking platonic fun include Huggle, Whistle and Patook. Though these friendship-pairing apps were available prior to lockdown, the idea has truly come into its own since. Lovely stuff!

SOCIAL MEDIA

Using social media to make connections seems almost quaint after all the forward-thinking, expansive ideas we’ve already suggested. But never has there been a better time to rekindle old relationships which have fallen victim to packed schedules and physical distances. Why not call that friend you haven’t spoken to in years? More often than not, you’ll find the spark is still there, and it’ll feel like you’ve made a whole new buddy!

Alternatively, you could initiate a Zoom call or phone conversation with an acquaintance you’ve previously only shared memes with on Twitter or the odd comment on Instagram, or reach out to a colleague you’ve always shared friendly office banter with, and see if they fancy making friends? Build on fleeting friendships and make them something more permanent, because let’s face it, we’re all feeling a little lonely right now.

And if you’re looking for more ways to reach out and make a connection, check out these 4 ways to stay connected and keep a sense of community during lockdown.

*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP first*

6 TIPS ON HOW TO START A FOOD BUSINESS FROM YOUR HOME KITCHEN

Editorial Team
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6 TIPS ON HOW TO START A FOOD BUSINESS FROM YOUR HOME KITCHEN

Since COVID changed just about every facet of our everyday, more people than ever have found solace in the kitchen, with amateur bakers, butchers, sushi chefs and wok enthusiasts all cooking up a storm from home.

Naturally, some entrepreneurial minded folk have started to sell their wares, keen for recognition beyond the wife, kids and dog for their home cooked creations.

At the same time, those already in the restaurant and catering industry have had to adapt, too, and some have started operating delivery businesses from their home kitchen, keen to keep their knives sharp and palettes refined for when restaurants are allowed to reopen later this year.  

Whether you’re intending to double down on your midweek bolognese and sell the extra for profit, you’ve been baking cupcakes which have gained a cult following on Instagram, or you’re a bored professional chef chomping at the bit, there are a few things to know before you start selling your food from home safely and effectively.

With that in mind, here are 6 tips on how to start a food business from your home kitchen. 

HERE TO HELP CAMPAIGN 

There are a ton of practical requirements you’ll need to meet if you’re starting a food business from home, from registering as a food business and as self employed, to getting permission from your mortgage provider or landlord, and even asking the local council to assess whether you’re meeting all health, safety and hygiene requirements.  

To make things easier, as part of their Here to Help Campaign, the Government are offering support and guidance to food business adapting during COVID, including advice on all of the practical requirements and much more, particularly on the food safety side of things.

Before any consultation with professionals in the field or health inspectors, ask yourself a few basic questions: ”what certification and formal training do I need regarding food hygiene?”, ”how can I make sure my products are free from contamination?”, ”are there food safe gloves that are deemed to be industry standard?”, ”how do health and safety protocols differ in a home kitchen to a professional one?”, and and “what coverage should my food liability insurance provide to ensure I’m fully protected?” are just a few you should be considering.

Head to the Government’s website for more information on guidance for starting a food business from home.  

HONE YOUR IDEA 

There’s a lot of competition out there. In fact, every home kitchen in every house across the country has the potential to be your competitor. As such, your proposition needs to be unique, one-of-a-kind and something which, ideally, restaurants in your locale can’t provide.

So, consider your dishes and how they might fill a hungry hole in your community. Family recipes passed down from generation to generation, a cuisine which the restaurants in your city don’t cover, or a super-indulgent take on a traditional, ‘comfort food’ dish are all concepts which work particularly well from the home kitchen setting. 

Don’t simply offer some half-rate pasta or a burger which, frankly, isn’t as good as your local Honest. Instead, do something unique and celebratory of ‘home’.

MAKE IT EASY TO ORDER 

Online ordering systems are an integral part of any takeaway food business, and without them, you might as well be totting up your orders on an abacus and hoping a carrier pigeon will deliver them safely across town.

Should you be starting out from scratch with your from-home food business, the guys at Flex Catering, who offer catering software for UK caterers, tell us that newcomers to the industry should make their proposition as simple-to-order as possible, ideally allowing customers ‘’One Page Checkout (which) provides the best user experience where customers can place their orders quickly and with the fewest possible steps’’. 

In such a crowded marketplace, this simplicity of transaction could be the difference between customers preferring you or choosing your competitors.

Using catering software doesn’t only help with the ordering process, however. In fact, upgrading your home catering business to cloud-based catering software will not only simplify the customer experience, but also make managing your business from home much more straightforward, too.

SOCIAL MEDIA SMARTS 

Social Media – it’s one of the most influential and important things to get right for any business. If you don’t bother capitalising on the power of social media, then you may as well shut up your online food business right now. This is particularly pertinent for those running their food business from home, where the budget for a full on marketing campaign probably isn’t there.

That doesn’t mean you can’t engage with your niche audience directly and personally. Quite the opposite, in fact; use social media smartly and you’re more likely to see uptake on your products. 

If you’re selling hot sauce, for example, then jump on spice specific hashtags, like #habanero, #chilli and #sriracha.  Should you be peddling phad thai, #Thaifood is the bare minimum you should be tagging. 

To generate a bit of a buzz in a particularly testing time, some takeaway places have been running competitions over social media which are great for engaging with potential diners. You might even achieve the holy grail, of customer loyalty and repeat purchases. If you’re keen to do just that, then you could do worse than checking out our article on 5 of the best online marketing tools to capture the attention of new customers here. 

Instagram has become a notorious focal point for foodies taking the perfect snap before tucking in. Some of the most popular hashtags include #foodporn, which features in 179.9 million pictures, and #foodgasm which has been tagged 40.7 million times to date. Which brings us to our next point… 

PROFESSIONAL FOOD PHOTOS

Visual marketing is certainly where the consumer’s attention is most succinctly caught these days, and its importance is growing with each passing year. 

Nowhere is this truer than in the food industry. People eat with their eyes first, and by taking the time to create some memorable photos and learning the basics of food photography, you could make the difference between your business rising or sinking.

While, of course, you can take decent photos on your smartphone, it’s worth hiring a food photographer to really capture your food at it’s best if you’re keen to make a go of this thing. And that’s why you’re here, right? The photos that you share on your website and via social media will be essential in generating and growing your business, so take appropriate care of this side of the project. Because, let’s be honest, who ever ordered from a place without scrutinising pictures of the food first?

VEGAN TAKEOVER 

More and more people are changing their dietary preferences, and the rise of veganism has been an unprecedented trend in the food industry in recent years.

A survey found that the number of vegans in the UK had reached 3.5 million in 2018, which is representative of the soar in consciousness towards the ethical concerns and environmental impacts of livestock farming. It’s up to you to react to these changing demands, and if you’re keen to conquer an increasingly prominent corner of the market, it’s essential you have a vegan offering on your menu.  

THE BOTTOM LINE

Catering is, even at the best of times, a challenging and demanding job. And these are most certainly not the best of times. Going forward, the industry is only set to get more complex as the post-COVID rules are readjusted and refined, but with a little endeavour and a lot of great cooking, you could make a success of your home food business. Good luck! 

DRINKING TOO MUCH IN LOCKDOWN? HERE’S HOW TO DRINK MORE RESPONSIBLY

Editorial Team
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DRINKING TOO MUCH IN LOCKDOWN? HERE’S HOW TO DRINK MORE RESPONSIBLY

Qurantitini, coronaholic, laptop-lagers…it seems like a whole new drinking vernacular has emerged courtesy of the Pandemic, and sometimes, it can be hard to keep up. Even harder, for so many during this difficult period, has been keeping various vices in check. Indeed, research from Alcohol Change UK revealed that 21% of us were drinking more during the first pandemic, with many doing so dangerously.  

During the first lockdown, it might have been fun – we tried our hand at making those qurantinis, did wine tasting nights on Zoom and house-partied like it was 1999. 

Then, the hangover kicked in. This lockdown around, things feel like they’ve taken a turn, with many Brits concerned about their drinking and sadly, alcohol-related deaths reaching a record high in the UK at the end of last year.

If you’re keen to keep things under control and concerned that you’re drinking too much in lockdown, then read on; here’s how to drink more responsibly.

GET HELP 

First things first, although the word ‘coronaholic’ has been thrown around a lot, there’s a danger that the frivolousness of the term might be masking something more serious. If you are worried about how much alcohol you’re drinking, there’s no shame in seeking the help of professionals if other methods of giving up have so far failed you. 

With a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Transactional Analysis, Relational Framework Therapy, medication and counselling from such services, a fresh start is possible. You can visit their site to learn more. 

DON’T KEEP BOOZE IN THE HOUSE

It may sound obvious, but by not keeping booze in the house, you’ll be much less likely to compulsively, impulsively reach for a bottle at the end of the day. The majority of us are taking fewer trips to the supermarket lately, due to government guidance, and, as such, are loading up our trolley with more supplies than usual, including alcohol.  

Instead, load your trolly up with other, equally interesting beverages, which succinctly brings us to our next point… 

EXPLORE NON & LOW- ALCOHOLIC DRINKS 

Let’s face it, tap water is a bit boring. And if there’s one thing we’ve learnt, boredom often leads to drinking. Luckily, there are so many drinks that can replace your evening glass of wine which feel like just as much of a treat. 

While of course green tea, kombucha and turmeric lattes are all great, many drinkers have found solace in the hugely improved non and low alcohol drinks market, too. This is no more succinctly realised than with Seedlip Spice, a 0% spirit made in the same way as gin, with a serious load of botanicals and packing a similar punch flavour wise, but not inducing that maudlin drunkenness we’re so prone to. The finish is complex with notes of clove and cardamom and it scratches a certain itch, that’s for sure. 

We’re also fans of Rochester Ginger Drink, a non-alcoholic ginger beer with one hell of a kick, offering a fiery smack on the lips and a lingering on the tongue that other non-alcoholic drinks so often lack. For enthusiastic beer drinkers, Nanny State from Brewdog, containing just 0.5% alcohol, is full of flavor, grapefruit bitterness and blessed with a pleasing treacle finish. 

Finding a replacement for alcohol is one positive lifestyle change that you can make. However, there are plenty of other things you can do, too…

KEEP BUSY & FOCUS ON POSITIVE LIFESTYLE CHANGES  

To resist the urge to drink, you need to fill your time with something else. For so many, it seems like the temptation to drink strikes most directly when we’re feeling listless and uninspired. A gloomy day outside with little on the agenda often leads to us filling up a glass just to fill in some hours. Many former drinkers who gave up successfully suggest that it’s crucial to keep busy and fill up your time, particularly in the evenings. Think home workouts, learning a new language, watching a new TV series…anything wholesome to keep the wolf from the door. 

Also, focus on positive lifestyle changes like exercising, meditating and eating well, all of which will help you shape your mindset into a holistically healthier one. Slowly but surely, those drinks and hangovers will seem less appealing. 

DRINK ONE DAY A WEEK OR JUST ON WEEKENDS 

For many, pouring a glass of wine has become a way to mark the transition from day to evening. However, instead of punctuating every evening by having a drink, why not limit it to a Friday night to mark the weekend, instead? 

If you know you’re going to drink over the weekend, then measure your units – this way you can make sure you’re sticking to the recommended amount. It’s important to understand what a ‘standard’ measurement is when it comes to your favourite tipple and it can be a worthwhile investment to buy a good measure for when you make drinks at home. Doing so can help you keep better track of your drinking and limit any excesses.

DRINK BETTER 

If you’re keen to cut down, not out, then the idea of ‘drinking better’ has gained traction in recent years. Rather than witter on, we’ll redirect you instead to our tips on how to drink less wine but enjoy drinking it more. 

UNDERSTAND THAT YOU’RE NOT ALONE

You’re not alone. As environmental psychologist Lee Chambers tells Glamour, ‘’Society and humans in general equate alcohol to relaxation,” he explains, “and in the stress and anxiety of the current crisis, drinking helps block these feelings, both cognitively and chemically, particularly masking our feelings of isolation as social connection is diminished when we can’t leave the house.” 

As such, it’s vital to stay in touch with family and friends, to find that sense of belonging somewhere away from the bottle. Schedule daily calls, send voice notes, even exchange memes! Anything which keeps those touchpoints ticking is perfect.

8 UNIQUE IDEAS FOR SOCIALISING IN YOUR GARDEN

Editorial Team
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8 UNIQUE IDEAS FOR SOCIALISING IN YOUR GARDEN

Ideal for having fun with loved ones when restrictions are eased.

This just in; the government’s latest ‘road map’ out of lockdown is due, and rumour has it that socialising with friends and family, safely and securely, is likely to be prioritised. In fact, according to various leaks, loved ones – whether that’s two households or a ‘rule of six’ situation will become clear in the coming days – will be allowed to meet in each other’s gardens at the end of March. We can’t wait.

With all necessary caveats about taking proper precautions, keeping your distance, and washing your hands and surfaces in place, here are 8 unique ideas for socialising in your garden, IDEAL for having fun with loved ones when restrictions are eased. 

HOTDOGS & CHAMPAGNE 

Sure you could just have a BBQ, but why not make it a little more special and unique? We’ve got all summer to have the usual burgers and beers, don’t you think? For now, this is a celebratory, unique occasion, welcoming friends or family over after months apart. As such, it’s imperative that you go that extra mile… 

We’re looking to a Vienna’s Würstelstände (that’s sausage stand) for inspiration on this one. Yep, if you haven’t considered the combination before, that’s champagne and sausages, and they pair just beautifully.  

Käsekrainer (cheese filled hot dogs affectionately referred to as ‘Kranky’) served with dark rye bread, gherkins and dollops of both mustard and ketchup are perhaps the most popular choice on the streets of Vienna, and translate beautifully to a crisp, spring evening in the UK. Currywurst is equally ubiquitous, or a more elegant frankfurter topped with crispy shallots and loads of mustard might just satisfy your desires?

A side of potato salad with plenty of mayonnaise is obligatory. Then, all you have to worry about is the champagne, although in all honesty, serving cava or prosecco is just as appropriate. 

Sounds like a fantastic evening to us!

HAVE A SHISHA NIGHT 

Bring the vibes of the famous Cairo bazaar Khan el-Khalili to your garden, complete with all the escapist vibes that come with it by hosting your very own shisha night. Traditionally, hookah lounges are spaces designed with comfort in mind, with well appointed, softly furnished seating and snacks to hand. 

Generally speaking, alcohol isn’t served. Instead, elaborate, delicious tea is the traditional drink of the hookah lounge, with mint and jasmine the most popular choices. Serve some up on arrival to get the party started.

Though the hookah pipe is usually shared communally, you’ll have to invest in a separate hookah for guests to avoid cross-contamination. Don’t worry, they’re surprisingly affordable; you can find a solid, durable pipe starting at around £50. Alternatively, you can buy disposable mouthpieces to ensure hygiene is respected.

The sweet aroma is the defining feature of any hookah lounge, and you can find fruity flavours like Al Fakher Shisha Flavour to really replicate that shisha bar experience. It’s common for fruit to be served alongside the pipe, to complement but not overwhelm these flavours. Avoid spicy and greasy foods at all costs, which will be jarring both flavourwise and texturally, against the delicate smoke.

When it comes to seating, create the rightt ambiance with low, comfy seating. Then, all you have to do is find an appropriate soundtrack; check out this awesome Spotify Hookah Lounge playlist for inspiration!

PIZZA IN A WOOD FIRED OVEN 

For foodies who love bringing friends and family together, then a wood fired oven in your garden is exactly what you need for that focal point which any great evening spent socialising outdoors needs. Yep, a pizza oven, whether it’s one you’ve built yourself or one of the many great ones currently on the market, makes a fun addition to your outdoor space and serves as a hub for entertaining, too

Though this bit of kit is perfect for throwing a pizza party, don’t let the al fresco cooking stop there; fish, meat, veggies and even some baked desserts all taste amazing in a wood fired oven!

For some top advice from the experts (at IDEAL), check out these beginner’s tips on making the best homemade pizza.

CREATE A HOME BEER GARDEN 

It looks like we might have to wait until May for pubs for reopen. So, why not bring the pub vibes into your backyard and create your own beer garden for welcoming friends and family over? 

To create the right atmosphere for your very own beer garden, it’s all about the props. Start by naming your garden pub and creating some signage. Next, dig out your Christmas lights and string up them around the garden; nothing beats that twinkle, right? Otherwise, you’re just kinda huddled round, drinking in the dark…and where’s the fun in that? 

Don’t have pint glasses? Firstly, we commend you for having not stolen them from your local. But not having pint glasses at home shouldn’t stop you from hosting your own beer garden; simply serve your drinks in jam jars instead, like a trendy East London hangout would. 

And finally, the most important part of all; the beer. There are several excellent beer keg dispensers currently on the market, helping you create that pulled pint feeling from home. At the budget end of the spectrum, the Pinter At Home costs just £75, whilst the Fizzics DraftPour clocks in at £149. Or, if you’re looking to spend a little more, then the Philips Perfect Draft is a smart investment, costing £399 and being compatible with over 40 different beers.

FIREPIT, STARGAZING & MARSHMALLOWS 

There’s just something about gathering around a fire, staring into it enigmatically and contemplating life’s bigger questions. To entice friends over to do the same, and share in some existential soul searching, why not invest (or build your own) firepit? 

Ideal for backyard entertaining, a firepit can take the look of your outdoor space up a notch and will instantly transform your space into an all-year-rounder. Because, let’s face it, the final days of March aren’t exactly warm, are they?

When it comes to food, there’s plenty of things you and your guests can cook on a stick. Think frankfurters, kebabs, shrimp, corn on the cob and even fresh bread, for starters. For pudding, roasted pineapples are gorgeous, and don’t forget the marshmallows! 

And once the fun around the fire is done, why not indulge in a spot of stargazing to finish the night in style? Consider setting up a telescope next to your fire pit – you never know, you may just find the answer to those existential questions you’ve been pondering. 

TAP INTO TAPAS 

We’re looking south to our Spanish amigos for inspiration here. Tapas is one of the most convivial food experiences in the world and is ideal for the outdoor setting. It’s all about the shared experience here, and what livelier, more interactive and exciting eating experience is there than tapas? The most iconic tapas dishes can, more often than not, be made in advance; ideal for hosts who want to enjoy their party rather than spend all evening at the stoves.

Pair your tapas with some Spanish Cava and bring out the Sangria later on, if you’re keen to keep the party going. When creating a soiree around these shareable small plates (separate plates for each household or guest, of course) why not go the extra mile and invest in a couple of oak barrels and bar stools, which really create the right ambience. Don’t forget the music – we think a playlist of Spanish guitar is ideal!

THROW A PINTXOS PARTY 

If creating lots of tapas dishes seems like a lot of work, then look to another cornerstone of Spanish culture from the Basque country for inspiration. 

Coming from the Spanish verb ‘pinchar’ which means ‘to pierce’, pintxos come with a cocktail stick skewering delicious toppings like Spanish tortilla, stuffed olives, or yellow fin tuna and anchovy, with a slice of bread beneath. Cava is obligatory, here, and helps things along beautifully.

These bite-size punches of flavour can be created beforehand, which means less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests in the garden. Please note that a ham and pineapple hedgehog is not pintxo; just sayin’.

OUTDOOR CINEMA 

If you’re craving inspiration for your next gathering, then an outdoor cinema could be just the ticket. Rest assured; it’s actually surprisingly easy to create your very own cinematic experience outdoors. 

First, you’ll need a projector. There are tons of affordable ones out there; the APEMAN Portable Mini Projector 4500 at £79.99 on Amazon is often touted as one of the best budget projectors you can buy on a budget, and will give you a decent picture outdoors. For a screen, a white bed sheet pegged on the washing line with something to weigh it down to the ground will suffice; that DIY aesthetic is very on trend, don’t you think?

And when it comes to snacks, while bags of popcorn are, of course, fine, we all know that popcorn tastes best when it’s just been freshly popped. Enter the domestic Popcorn Machine; yours for just £15.

THE BOTTOM LINE

If the latest news is to be believed, you have a month to prepare for a party which takes the best elements of public socialising that we’ve all missed, and brings them into the domestic space. All it takes is a little time and creativity, and, of course, compliance with the latest rules, and you can enjoy a wonderful time with family and friends once again!

If you’re playing the long game, then check out our article on how to host the ultimate summer soiree.

How To Improve Your Poker Game Today

Editorial Team
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How To Improve Your Poker Game Today

Although it might not be one of the most complicated games to play, poker is widely regarded as one of the most challenging. With some of the biggest and best liars, tricksters and card players throughout the world taking to poker as their favorite go-to – it’s not exactly hard to see why the game can be so difficult, especially when on the world stage. 

But even the Daniel Negreanus, Phil Hellmuths and Doyle Brunsons of this world had to start out somewhere, and by using the same tactics that they and other pros used to get ahead of the rest, you too could improve your game. So, if you’re looking to give your game a lift, or simply get some practice in, then read on; here’s how to improve your poker game today.

Avoid Being The First Player To Limp 

Limping (calling the big blind preflop) is one of the biggest faults that no players commit when entering a pot. By calling the big blind pre-flop, players won’t be able to win the bot before the flop (like they would be able to if they had raised) and give the behind players enticing pot odds, so you’ll be facing more players in the pot. More players mean a lower chance of winning and that’s not what we want. So, avoid limping first, as you don’t win by being a passenger. 

Fast-Play Your Strong Hands

One of the biggest and most popular tells in poker is the long pause of consideration for the raise when a player has a good hand. This is one of the most basic tells in the game that can be used to identify strong hands and create bluffs against strong players, so it pays to avoid the long delays when you’re onto a winning hand. Keep it fast and aggressive, as that’s where the money will be. 

Play Fewer Hands

Perhaps the most important advice of all, and something all amateur poker players, whether at a game night with friends or sitting at a Vegas table for the first time, can benefit from, is to pay careful consideration to the number of hands that you’re playing. 

When a player is brand-new to the game, they’ll often play through a high percentage of hands, just to get a little seat time in the game. Although it’s not exactly going to ruin your game off the bat, it’s not going to win you any either. In short, tight and aggressive wins the game, so it might be time to start folding that 4-8 focus on playing only the top poker hands.

Fold When You’re Uncertain 

One of the biggest differences between a bad player and a good player? A good player can throw away a good hand when they think they’re beat. So, if you think that you’re beat but feel like you’re too far gone, it’s important to remember that there’s nothing stopping you from folding and saving the rest of your bankroll. Sometimes a little damage limitation can go a long way.

Study The Tells & Target Them

Want to play the people rather than the cards? You’re going to need to study the main poker tells and get to grips with identifying them. There’s plenty to take into account, whether you’re playing online or in person, and it takes a good player to know them all, as they will differ from person to person significantly. That said, some tells are universal, and shared by many players, so it’s always good to know what you’re looking for. 

Go For The Kill When Players Show Weakness

Noticing a player that you’re seeing on-tilt? Now’s your time to strike. When there’s someone around the table in a off-kilter mood with erratic betting patterns, it might be time to play on the front foot. Whilst a fully blown psychological assessment is neither possible or ethical, it pays to recognise tilt in both other players and yourself. 

Focus On Solid Poker In Tournaments

When playing in a poker tournament, it can be too easy to adopt a survival mentality, but in the end, it’s good poker that wins out. There’s a time and a place for stack preservation, but when you’re in the early stages of a poker tournament, that isn’t it. Instead of playing defensively and “surviving”, it’s best to adopt an aggressive style and focus on solid poker. Because let’s face it, that’s how hands are won. 

Read: 10 cheap things to do in Las Vegas

Be Realistic About Your Strengths

If you’re looking to play poker and win, you’re going to need to play against those that aren’t quite as good as yourself. If you can’t spot the poor player within the first half-hour at the table, it might be time to look in the mirror. You should always opt for tables with players that aren’t quite as good as you, that way you can make a little profit. 

Get A Good Night’s Sleep 

Something often overlooked in the game of poker are the physical and mental factors surrounding the game. At the end of the day, poker isn’t just a game of cards, it’s much more demanding, with both a physical and mental strain put on the players in the room. If you’re playing a high-stakes game, tournament, or just want to get the best out of yourself – it’s best to get a good night’s sleep and be in a sharp, sober frame of mind when taking a seat at the table.

By making sure that you’re the best you can be physically and mentally, you give yourself the best chance of optimal performance. Check out our 5 IDEAL steps to the perfect bedtime routine over here for some great tips on setting yourself up for a night of Zzzeds.

Only Play When You’re In The Mood To 

Last but not least, when playing poker, you should only ever play when you’re in the mood to. If you’re not really into the game, keep getting distracted, playing on autopilot or just don’t want to be in the room, then head home. It’s better to not play at all than to play in a bad mood, as that’s when tilt takes over.

We’ll end this one by reminding you to always gamble responsibly, ideally playing just for fun and without real money or genuine deposits. 

5 UNIQUE GIFT IDEAS FOR AN ANIMAL LOVER

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5 UNIQUE GIFT IDEAS FOR AN ANIMAL LOVER

Ideal for your creature-crazy mate.

Hey, here’s the good news; an animal lover is perhaps one of the easiest people to buy for. 

Because for those who feel a kindred connection to each and every species who roams (swims and flies) the planet, this love for animals is all consuming, and something of a calling card, if you will. As such, choosing a gift couldn’t be easier.

That said, if you do have an animal obsessed loved one, they will have likely had their fair fill of animal-themed trinkets, posters, books and souvenirs. As such, buying a gift which they haven’t seen before can be tricky. We’re here to help with that; here are 5 unique gift ideas for an animal lover, IDEAL for your creature-crazy mate.

A BESPOKE PORTRAIT OR CALENDAR 

Sure, your animal obsessed loved one has got the panda posters. They proudly display their snake anatomy diagrams on their bedroom wall. They’ve framed their favourite cartoon depiction of a horse on the wall (BoJack, if you’re asking) and they’re never taking it down.

But how about a custom painted portrait of their favourite animal? We bet they don’t own one of those! Most animal lovers would appreciate a portrait of their best canine or feline friend to hang proudly on their wall, and commissioning a painting would make a truly unique gift. 

To make it really special, you can go high end and enlist a reputable artist to do the deed. We’re particularly enamoured with artist Andrew Walworth’s work. He also paints cats, dogs, or whatever animal your friend adores. 

SOMETHING CUTE 

These days, you can buy anything with an animal on it (not an actual animal, PETA might have something to say about that) and there are hundreds of appropriate gifts for people who love cats, chihuahuas, dogs, dolphins and nearly every animal under the sun. We suggest simply typing the specific animal your friend likes and seeing what Google throws back at you.

Currently, we’re big fans of playful and quirky animal themed lamps. These statement lamps are everywhere at the moment, and are, rather implausibly, a hot design trend of late. Wayfair have a particularly good collection and stock lamps from lots of different outlets – check their collection of World Menagerie lamps which are particularly colourful and super cute. Even Argos are getting in on the act, and have several unique and unusual animal lamps in their online catalogue.

For something a little more old school, animal candle and tea light holders are also having a moment, and are a lovely addition to the home. You could always get your arts and crafts on and make them something cute too. Indeed, using your crafting ability to make personalised gifts is a fantastic way to show someone special that you care. 

SPONSOR OR ADOPT AN (INSERT ANIMAL HERE) 

Considering we’ve already established that your pet loving friend has all the animal themed items they’ll ever need, why not instead give the gift of compassion, without your loved one having to find room in their house for another present?

A great idea for dog lovers is a dog sponsoring gift. This a great way to help an abandoned dog get the support and home they need. You’ll receive photos, stickers, magnets, and regular updates on your pup at Xmas, Valentine’s, and various other dates throughout the year.  

Adopting an animal from the WWF is another fantastic gift option. You can help your animal-mad mate protect precious habitats around the world and the species which rely on them, ensuring a safer future for various animals for years to come. See a full list of animals available for adoption here. 

A CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE 

Looking to splash out? How generous, would you like to be our friend?

But in all seriousness, if you’re eager to spoil an animal-mad loved one in a lavish way, then have you considered booking a holiday for them to go and volunteer on a conservation project in a location far flung? 

Zimbabwe, for instance, has several conservation programs, as well as wildlife orphanages and even dedicated lion rehabilitation projects, all looking for volunteers. Or, a little closer to home, there are opportunities to help dolphin tracking in Slovenia, or even conservationist work here in the UK, helping the National Trust, RSPCA, and RSPCB complete their invaluable work. Organising such an adventure for your loved one would be an amazing, totally unique gift, don’t you think?

SOMETHING TO READ 

Google ‘what books animal lovers should read’  and there will be thousands of lists. Unsurprisingly, most include classics like Watership Down by Richard Adams, Animal Farm by George Orwell, Of Wolves and Men by Barry Lopez, and, of course, Black Beauty by Anna Sewell.

But we assume any self respecting animal lover has probably read these. If not, you have your present right there. Just sneak a look at their bookshelf the next time you’re visiting (or, zoom in on Zoom) and see what they’re missing.

Alternatively, if you’re thinking of some anthropomorphic literature, first take inspiration from the movies. We’ve all seen the film Marley & Me, about the badly behaved, loveable lab, but most haven’t read the book by John Grogan. Perhaps this might be a welcome introduction to one of the most beloved animal characters in fiction?

Running with a theme, while most animal lovers have seen the cartoon version of White Fang, fewer have perhaps read the book by Jack London published in 1906. While we’re on Jack London, his book the Call of the Wild has just been made into a movie starring Harrison Ford, and is a glorious celebration of the unbreakable bond shared between dog and owner.

For more fact, less fiction, Coyote at the Kitchen Door written by biologist and conservationist Stephen DeStefano sheds light on the less-than-symbiotic relationship shared between civilisation and wilderness. 

Or, Some We Love, Some We Hate, Some We Eat by Hal Herzog looks at our complicated relationship with animals, and is most certainly an entertaining, enlightening read.  

For some easy reading, try the gorgeously illustrated animal encyclopedia An Anthology of Intriguing Animal by Ben Hoare. And for something on the more expansive side, The Diversity of Life by Pulitzer Prize-winning scientist Edward O. Wilson is just as pertinent now as it was when it was published in 1992.

However, if playing detective and finding out what books your friend has or hasn’t read is a little too trying during lockdown, might we suggest a subscription to an animal focused magazine? The National Geographic or BBC Wildlife Magazine are both brilliant monthly print magazines with tons of fascinating facts and gorgeous photography, too. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Though shopping for a creature-crazy companion can at times be tough, we hope you’ve found some inspiration in the above suggestions. Good luck!

Looking for more gift ideas? Check out our article on 8 IDEAL gift ideas for your travel obsessed friend and 8 environmentally friendly gift ideas, ideal for the eco-conscious loved one in your life

6 IDEAL TIPS FOR LONG MOTORBIKE RIDES IN HOT WEATHER IN THE UK

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6 IDEAL TIPS FOR LONG MOTORBIKE RIDES IN HOT WEATHER IN THE UK

Did you feel it too? That just perceptible uptick in temperature surely means that good things are around the corner. 

We’re sure you’ve noticed the sun still shining at 6, right? And with it, can we assume you felt a little optimism alongside?

And the smell…is that the scent of daffodils in the air? Yep, Spring is coming and, without wishing to skip a whole season, that means Summer isn’t that far away either.

Though we wouldn’t want to second guess a government who’ve done more U-turns than a motorbike rider without satnav, it does look like some form of staycation may be permitted once the weather warms up.

And how we’re longing for that feeling of the open road that a great motorbike ride brings. And the longer, the better we say! In the UK, the longest, most iconic motorbike route is, of course, John O’Groats to Land’s End. From the tip of Scotland to the most westerly point of Cornwall, the whole thing covers 815 miles and takes around 15 hours, depending on traffic. 

After such a long time spent indoors and stationary, how we’d love to be revving up for such a sprawling ride! But even if you’re tackling something more manageable, and without wishing to burst the tyre on your sense of adventure before you’ve even set off, there are some precautions you need to take if you’re riding in the summer months. With that in mind, here are 6 IDEAL tips for long motorbike rides in hot weather in the UK.

STAY HYDRATED

Staying hydrated is one of the most important things to remember when you’re out riding. There are going to be some long stretches spent under the sun, and often spent under thick protective clothing, too. Distracted by the thrill of the open road, it can be all too easy to forget to drink water.

The hotter it is, the more fluids your body needs to function, and as any rider will attest, it can get super sweaty under your leathers. That’s a lot of water lost, accordingly, and it’ll need replenishing. If you’re not careful, you can suffer from dehydration, and this presents serious risks. According to the experts at News Medical, ‘’Studies have shown that cognitive function declines at mild water loss of around 2% body water loss…these include poorer concentration, increased reaction times, short-term memory issues, and negative mood changes’’.

And it’s that poorer concentration and increased reaction times which should be of particular concern to riders, as such changes could raise the likelihood of an accident.

It’s best to be alert to the symptoms of dehydration; feeling dizzy and lightheaded, general fatigue and having a dry mouth, lips, and even dry eyes, which can impair your vision are some key signs. 

Make sure that you stay safe and drink plenty of water. There are special rider’s backpacks you can buy, such as a CamelBak, which make drinking water while you ride easy. You should also avoid setting off on a long ride after a longer night on the beers; we all know how dehydrating that can be.

TIME YOUR RIDE

To avoid a whole day of sun exposure, it’s crucial that you factor in the time of the day that you travel. Doing so can help you avoid riding at peak sun exposure.  

Having the sun glaring down on you from above, especially with all your gear and no shade, can lead you to getting hot and dehydrated, which, as we’ve established, can be dangerous.

Riding when the sun’s at its highest can also present problems with visibility. This is due to the glare you’ll experience when facing the sun or with it in your mirrors. To compensate for that glare, having the right helmet helps mitigate visibility issues. To be legal, your visor must, according to the British Motorcycle Federation, ‘’conform to BS 4110 – which ensures a level of scratch resistance and permits up to 50% light transmittance. Any other visors are illegal, but sunglasses, tear-offs and inner wrap-arounds are all permitted’’. 

Do be aware that sunglasses are discouraged, though not illegal, in the Highway Code. 

At the height of summer (June, July and August) and between 11am and 3pm, the sun will be particularly strong and the glare from the road sometimes blinding. Instead, try to complete the majority of your ride during cooler, more softly lit hours. 

DRESS APPROPRIATELY

In hotter climates and during hotter times of the day or even year, one way that you can offset the heat is by dressing accordingly. 

Plan for the day and know what the average temperature is going to feel like. This way, you can choose the number of layers you wear.

Though you might think the leather biker jacket and matching trousers is obligatory, you actually have several options for protective clothing which conform to UK law. According to the Highway Code, you must wear a protective helmet, but after that, the law gets a little murky. Generally speaking, however, any insurance claim will be invalidated if you weren’t wearing…

  • Motorcycle boots
  • Textile, heavy denim or leather trousers
  • A textile, heavy denim or leather jacket
  • Motorcycle gloves
  • A visor on your helmet or goggles

Though this somewhat restricts your ability to dress cool, you can opt for protective clothing which is breathable, perhaps looking for clothes made out of a material with sweat-wicking capabilities. You can find various leather jackets and trousers in a perforated material which allows for a decent amount of breathability, too. 

Another aspect of your clothing that you want to consider is the colour; certain darker tones will attract more heat, whilst lighter colours will help you keep cooler, as well as alerting others on the road to your presence at the earliest opportunity. 

REMEMBERING SAFETY TRAINING AND PRACTICES

It is important that you have knowledge of how to safely navigate a situation where you feel uneasy riding, particularly in the trying conditions of summer, when somewhat surprisingly, the majority of accidents in the UK occur.

All your bike training will come into play in any event that you start feeling dizzy or lightheaded, or the starkness of the sun causes visibility issues. Should you be keen to brush up on your skills and road safety knowledge, courses and material from MTS rider training will provide information in regards to safety which could be invaluable.

Take a break if you need to, resting in order to get your body to cool down, and look for places to eat and drink if you need to refuel. Ignoring your body’s warning signs shouldn’t be an option.

RIDE IN GROUPS

One way to ensure that you’re safe while riding in hot weather is to ride with others, in convoy, or to put it more glamorously, in your very own biker gang.  

Whether you are on a road trip in a group or just want to have a friend along for a casual cruise, riding with a companion will help mitigate any trouble that you run into. You will be able to look out for each other, offering reminders to stay hydrated as well as checking on the well-being of your partner. 

In the event that you start feeling sick because of the heat, your riding companions can assist you, providing you with shade and water, or in more drastic circumstances, even call emergency response personnel to the scene and provide you with assistance. Riding in a group or with at least one other person ensures that responsibility and safety are prioritised.

THE BOTTOM LINE

It can be easy to get lost on the road, figuratively and literally, when the freedom of two wheels and some serious speeds revs up in your soul. We hope you enjoy your motorbike ride in summer with safety, as well as that adventurous spirit, in mind.

5 WAYS TO DRESS A WHITE LIVING ROOM

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5 WAYS TO DRESS A WHITE LIVING ROOM

Ideal for creating a calming and tranquil space this spring. 

The past year has been one of gloom and doom. If you haven’t spent the start of 2021 decorating your home to lift the spirits and beckon in the positive vibes, then might we suggest you start?

Indeed, with spring knocking at the door and summer just around the corner (hey, we’re trying to be optimistic here) now is the perfect time to give your living room a refresh. And what could be more refreshing than styling your living room all in white?

Some people believe that white interiors equate to boring or the much feared ‘minimalist’. However, we’re here to hit that misconception on the head. For us, a well-appointed white room is akin to a little slice of heaven in an otherwise crazy world; calm, considered and composed, the beauty of a white interior lies in its simplicity, giving it an airy sense of grandeur we just love to luxuriate in. 

If you’re the same, then you’ve come to the right place; here are 5 ways to dress a white living room, IDEAL for creating a calming and tranquil space this spring.

WHITE & WOOD CANVAS

If you’re looking to go the full hog when it comes to decorating your living room, then let’s talk walls and floor, the canvas, if you will, for your white room.  

Painting your room white will make it feel open, spacious and clean. There are lots of variations of white paint which can vastly change the look of your room (honestly), from cream to chalk, jasmine and even ivory bone – it can get pretty confusing.  

Considering it’s the plainest of colours, it’s also a risky business to get right; choose too white and your room will end up looking sterile and cold. If you don’t want to feel like you’re living in a hospital corridor and instead are eager to evoke a relaxing ambience, the experts at Dulux recommend adding a little bit of calm green, such as sage, into your white palette.

If you want to break up the white, then consider shiplap walls to add visual interest to your living room. This wall type can add a special sense of style and texture while perfectly blending with the rest of your white interior. Or, create a feature shiplap interior wall to serve as a focal point in an otherwise monochrome space. A panelled white wall also adds visual intrigue and breaks up a plain white wall, too.

The wonderful thing about white walls is that they go with most floor types. Here at IDEAL, we’re fond of wooden flooring which can blend seamlessly into a whole range of home design styles. Dark wooden flooring can create an intimate feel to a room and, as a backdrop, upholstered white furniture really shines through against this floor type. A warm, honey-toned wood floor, perhaps a pale parquet, for instance, can look effortlessly stylish in a white room and be a design feature in its own right.  

When choosing your wooden flooring, be sure to consider the natural light of the room, too; if a room has lots of windows and natural light, you may need to don sunglasses to enter the room because of the glare of a lighter finish alongside those white walls. Proceed with caution.

A WIDE, WHITE STATEMENT SOFA 

A white sofa, we hear you gasp? You must be mad! Well, you’d be right, but not because of our choice in furniture colour.

In fact, there’s nothing quite like a crisp, clean looking white sofa, set against a monochrome backdrop. Here at IDEAL, we’re fans of a cloud sofa – they are literally like resting on a cloud (without the falling to earth bit), since the huge cushions contribute to the cloud like cosiness of the piece.

Ok, we’re going to be completely honest with you, a white couch isn’t for everyone. Type ‘White sofa’ into Google and questions like ‘Is it a bad idea to get a white couch?’, ‘How do you get white furniture white again?’  and ‘is white furniture a good idea?’ will appear. There are stories all over the internet about the ugly truth of owning a white couch. But we say; don’t fear the dirt – that’s what slipcovers and bleach is for. Perhaps just lay off the turmeric lattes when you’re sitting on yours.

A STATEMENT ARMCHAIR 

Decided against a white sofa? We understand. Instead, consider a white statement armchair positioned in a prominent part of the room – a power chair,  as we like to call it – instead. 

The problem when it comes to choosing a statement chair is the sheer choice of styles. Well, ask any furniture aficionado to name a piece that they consider to be iconic, and we wouldn’t be surprised if a classic wingback chair was the first item to leave their lips.  

It’s easy to see why; wingback chairs have a distinctive and elegant look and vast appeal, and they are undoubtedly comfortable as well. However, if you’re looking for something a little more modern and stylish, consider a more contemporary accent chair.  

Occasionally an all-white decor may sometimes seem too monochrome, so consider a statement armchair which is a combination of white and wooden elements.  

A MINIMALISTIC SIDEBOARD 

Since white represents purity, it is only right to keep your living room as decluttered and clean as possible. Enter the sideboard. 

The storage potential of a sideboard is ideal for an all-white living room. There are many classic and contemporary designs to choose from to suit your unique tastes and to complement your existing decor, however, a good one should have an abundance of roomy drawers, adjustable shelves and ample cupboard space. 

You can keep knick-knacks, games, books, glassware (anything you like) out of sight allowing you to maintain a clean, crisp look in the room as a whole. We think a wooden credenza is ideal here – as we showcased earlier, white and wood is a winning combination. 

ADD LIFE WITH ACCESSORIES & PLANTS 

To avoid that stark, clinical aesthetic, you’re going to need accessories. Harnessing the power of diverse textures will help here. Soft furnishings, in particular, will add depth to your white living room; think intricate macrame wall hangings, soft woolen throws and knitted cushions. A heavy pile white rug will look gorgeous against a wooden floor, too. 

What’s more, accessories made from rattan work so well in a white room and can add a tropical vibe to your home; think woven mirror frames, floor lamps, lampshades and lanterns made from the naturally growing, wicker weaved vine. Or, if you’re keen to channel cold weather climates, instead, then how about going for a Scandinavain vibe with a sprinkle of boho chic thrown in for good measure? 

Ideal for creating a tranquil white space, the serenity that the green of houseplants brings to your home can be soothing and rejuvenating in equal measure in the relative drab of Britain and against that starker backdrop you’ve cultivated. Lovely stuff!

THE BOTTOM LINE

Quite the opposite of bland and boring, a white living room can be a breath of fresh air. Its calming, minimalist vibe can actually be inspiring, not to mention striking and soothing, all at once. 

An all-white living room is timeless choice for creating a calming backdrop to your every day life, and we could all do with a little bit of that right now. 

THE IDEAL APPS THAT DESIGNERS CAN USE TO GROW THEIR BUSINESS

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THE IDEAL APPS THAT DESIGNERS CAN USE TO GROW THEIR BUSINESS

‘’Alexa, what are the ingredients for a successful design start-up?’’

‘’I’m sorry, I don’t know that one’’.

‘’IDEAL, how about you, could you shed some light on the secrets to design start up success?’’

We’re glad you asked.

Let’s burst a few bubbles here. Starting a business in the field of design needs more than talent and skill, alone. Instead, it requires a fine balancing act to take place, and for you to juggle your creative impulses and budget constraints whilst satisfying a customer’s whims and wants and responding to the industry’s changing needs with dexterity.

Given up yet? If you haven’t, then we have some good news; since the design trade is at the cutting edge of technology and innovation, there are several platforms and apps which can help facilitate a smoother start in the industry. With that in mind, here are the IDEAL apps that designers can use to grow their business.

A PRIMARY COMMUNICATION APP 

As you’ve probably figured out by now, clear and effective communication is key to maximising your efficiency. More often than not, clients will ask for designs based on a generic idea and in a vague way, only to start making things clearer after you’ve submitted your work. 

To avoid a frustrating, time consuming back and forth, you’ll need a primary channel of communication through which you can reach a consensus with the client. Your main communication channel can be through emails, audio calls, video calls, or texting – but you have to specify a primary mode of communication and stick to it. 

The best forms of communication platform record all dialogue, exchanges and diagrams in a clear way, creating documentation and back ups along the way.

For clear, precise client communication, our favourite apps include: Chanty, MatterMost and Ryver.

A COLLABORATION APP

In the case of having a team working with you, you’ll need a collaboration app to organise your workflow efficiently and ensure you’re all on the same page. This application will be the main channel for communicating with your colleagues and within it; you’ll post regular updates, important announcements, meetings, and urgent changes. This app will act as the virtual workspace that keeps your team connected. 

For collaborative team communication and organisation, our favourite apps include: Slack, InVision and Glip.

A TASK MANAGEMENT APP

Having a task management app is important for all creative types, regardless of their line of work. Once you start taking on projects, keeping track of all the tasks you have to do can quickly become overwhelming – and let’s be honest, as designers, we can’t really count on our ability to remember every single detail asked of us. In the wise words of Kanye West, ‘’allow me to create’’.

To avoid making unnecessary mistakes or judgment errors, having a task management app (a glorified to-do list, essentially) helps you organise your work methodically, and is an incredibly useful tool where accountability and delegation is concerned.

For task management, our favourite apps include: Asana, Todoist and Trello. 

A PROJECT MANAGEMENT APP

Speaking of delegation…

If you’re working with a team, delegating tasks and explaining the details of each presents a dilemma without a good system in place. You want to deliver your message with clarity, but don’t want to appear patronising. In such cases, a project management app is ideal.

Instead of relying on spreadsheets, elaborate colour doing and endless documents, using a project management app will take care of all your tasks in one place. You’ll be able to upload assignments instantly while adding the criteria and description in each item, as well as the deadline. Once the task is done, the assignee can upload their work on the item and mark it as done. 

For clean, crisp and concise project management, some of favourite apps include: Base Camp, OmniPlan and Microsoft Project.

A CONTRACT SIGNING APP

Dealing with clients is never easy. Phew, you can say that again!

Dealing with clients is never easy. And one of the most tiresome tasks that comes with dealing with clients (happy now?) is the contract scrutinising and signing process. 

Agreeing on terms, stipulations, caveats and clauses can take a prohibitively long time, so anything that simplifies the process is hugely welcome. If you’re using Salesforce apps for managing your sales, then you’ll be glad to know that you can take care of your e-signature needs by adding a simple extension, allowing you to sign electronic documents and e-contracts easily without needing to print and rescan the document. 

Our favourite contract signing apps include: Cirrus Insight, DocuSign and RightSignature.

AN ACCOUNTING APP

Once you start taking on more clients, managing your accounting manually becomes difficult. Hey, it’s one of the perils of success, don’t you think? But as a designer, you should welcome the necessity to streamline your process, get rid of the paper, and move things into the virtual sphere. 

As the experts at Auditox Accountancy UK tell us, if you’re managing several clients and subcontracting certain processes simultaneously then you’ll need an accounting app to automate your processes.

Using this app, you’ll be able to easily create, send and chase invoices, track your finances, calculate your taxes, and pay your team members. 

Some of our preferred accounting apps include: QuickBooks, Xero and Zoho Books.

A FILE MANAGEMENT APP

Where do you usually store all your designs? Although saving them on your PC is good for security reasons, it’s not exactly practical. There will be a lot of times when you’ll need to access your files remotely, or you may even lose your data for one reason or another. Having a file management app that allows you to upload your work to the cloud is the best solution; it’s secure, practical, and allows for easy and instant sharing options. 

When your designs are so essential to your continued success, you come to feel quite precious about them. Best, then, to have them stored and backed up in a secure space.

Some of our favourite file management apps include: OneDrive for Business, DropBox Business and DocuWare.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Succeeding as a designer in today’s business world requires bags of creativity, sure, but success also relies on how you organise yourself and your work. Fortunately, there are a whole host of platforms who are only too ‘appy to help.

7 IDEAL BENEFITS OF A QUARTZ WORKTOP

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7 IDEAL BENEFITS OF A QUARTZ WORKTOP

Replacing your kitchen worktops isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. Not only functional, they contribute hugely to the style and feel of the room, too. Being such an integral part of the room, it’s no wonder that so many struggle to make a decision when it comes to the perfect material, with the modern demands of the kitchen requiring durability and sophistication to make it a worthwhile investment.

Whilst granite is an enduring choice – both in longevity and popularity – quartz is fast becoming an equally smart option, and for good reason; it offers several benefits to the homeowner in terms of durability, cost and colour. If you’re wondering what the best kitchen worktop is, then you’ve come to the right place; here are 7 IDEAL benefits of a quartz worktop.

DURABILITY

Quartz is made from a mix of natural stone and resin, essentially fashioned from crushed quartz pigments (primarily for colour, but also for reinforcement) and resin. Due to this mix, the material is incredibly durable, and able to withstand knocks, bumps and scratches more so than other common materials, such as laminate or solid wood.

Yep, quartz will cope with the daily demands of an energetic household without breaking stride. Although, come to think of it, you wouldn’t want your kitchen worktop able to break or stride.

If you’re weighing up whether to choose granite or quartz, as most consumers are where kitchen worktops are concerned, be aware that granite is generally considered a little less durable. Granite is quarried from pure stone and then turned into slabs and polished for installation, and though its luxury appeal is undeniable, granite is perhaps not quite as durable as quartz.

A CHANCE FOR COLOUR CUSTIMISATION

Thanks to the fact that they’re a mix of natural stone and resin, quartz worktops can be customised to suit your own particular taste, in terms of colour, as well as the exact size and shape you’re looking for. This broader range of colours is one of the main reasons people choose quartz over granite, which boasts a much more narrow range of colour options, or wood, which rather limits you in terms of your decor.

ITS NON POROUS NATURE

If you’re a lover of turmeric, you’ll be happy to hear that quartz is virtually non-porous, which means that when deployed as a kitchen worktop, it doesn’t tend to stain. Should you spill something, you don’t need to worry about your countertops staining and becoming ruined in an instant.

Because of its nonporous nature, quartz is also scratch-resistant. If that wasn’t enough, Quartz is also heat resistant (that is unless you take a blowtorch to it) and can withstand the heat of pots and pans without any damage.

EASY MAINTENANCE

Quartz requires fairly minimal intervention in the cleaning stakes, meaning its a low maintenance choice for a material of such quality. Regarding every day use, it needs to be cleaned simply, with hot water and a mild detergent.

It has an advantage over granite in the maintenance stakes, too, since quartz doesn’t require resealing once a year. Because quartz isn’t porous and completely solid, there is no need to have your countertops resealed – therefore, in terms of maintenance, quartz is super convenient.

A HYGIENIC CHOICE

Again, thanks to that alchemistic meeting of stone and resin in quartz and the non-porous nature of the worktop, you’ll find quartz doesn’t allow bacteria to work its way into the surface. Simply wipe clean with a damp cloth and gentle cleaning agent to ensure it’s germ and bacteria free. This bacteria resistance and imperviousness to germs makes quartz a hygienic choice.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS

Since quartz is manufactured in a factory and doesn’t require the extensive mining processes of granite or the felling of trees which a wood worktop requires, it represents the more environmentally choice. What’s more, quartz uses materials which may otherwise be wasted, with quartz worktops 100% recyclable, meaning it has become the preferred worktop material for the eco-conscious in recent years.

VALUE FOR MONEY

Let’s be honest here, both quartz is one of the more expensive worktop materials you can use. That said, you get what you pay for. Indeed, while quartz may not be the cheapest option out there, it certainly isn’t the most expensive and considering it requires little to no maintenance and can help increase the value of your home, it generally represents decent value for money.

On average, a quartz countertop will cost between £50 and £100 per square foot. A medium sized quartz countertop, then, at 54 square feet, could cost you between £2,700 and £5,400. Though that may seem like a large outlay, the longevity of the surface (on average, 25 to 30 years), as well as its low maintenance, means that quartz does represent good value for money in the long run.

If you’re looking to get around the heavy price tag, quartz toppers, which simply fit on top of your existing worktop, are available.

THE BOTTOM LINE

If you’d like more information on quartz worktops or perhaps to talk with a professional supplier and installer of quartz worktops, we recommend contacting Total Tops today on 01787 844 663. Total Tops are one of the UK’s leading suppliers and offer a fantastic selection of quartz worktops, in a range of colours, all of which can be custom cut to your perfect size and installed professionally for a first-class finish.

5 SUGGESTIONS ON WHAT TO WEAR BACK TO THE OFFICE

Editorial Team
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5 SUGGESTIONS ON WHAT TO WEAR BACK TO THE OFFICE

The days of formal fashion and workwear have been numbered for a while – and that was before the pandemic started. Indeed, over the last couple of decades, the growth of the internet, freelancing, remote working and communication technology has slowly changed the way we dress for work. For many, for the better, we might add.

“And yet”, as The Guardian writes. “our iconography of workwear for women remains rooted in the 80s and 90s. It is Margaret Thatcher in Downing Street, and Melanie Griffith in Working Girl.It is stuck in the era when Tina Brown first ruled New York and Ally McBeal was an up-and-coming Boston lawyer…none of which is appropriate any more”. 

For men, too, when calling to mind suave, formal workwear, we seem to automatically think of Madmen, where suits seem to symbolise different levels of power and status. 

However, since the pandemic took hold and working-from-home became the norm, it really does look like our idea of workwear is set to change forever. Coronavirus has not only changed the way we work, but it’s set to change what we wear to work, too. Loungewear, quarantine style, comfort dressing…whatever you want to call it – the rise of lockdown leisurewear is a fashion force that is here to stay.

A revolution is afoot, and lockdown has helped people realise something we suspected all along; you can dress comfortably and still be productive and dedicated. Seeing our colleagues in cosy jumpers, dressed down and with no makeup on has been a real game changer. 

Should a successful vaccine rollout and falling case numbers mean you might be heading back to the office sometime later this year, then it’s best to be prepared for a change in stylistic demands. We’re here to help with that; here are 5 suggestions on what to wear back to the office. 

COMFORT IS QUEEN 

While some people are declaring a desire to get back into fitted, formal clothes as soon as possible, believing the novelty has worn off lockdown loungewear, we simply don’t agree. Infact, we’ve been arguing for a while that formal wear is actually a hindrance when it comes to working.

The nation has been embracing wearing functional fashion and being comfortable for nearly a year now. As such, we can assume that a more relaxed dress code to work is going to be acceptable when we go back to the office. Yes, you can expect to hold on to some elements of your WFH-centric wardrobe when you return to work. 

Of course, we’re not suggesting that you should wear your loungewear to a corporate event. However, you can incorporate your new casual wardrobe into your workwear – the secret is all in the styling. Consider pairing your very best sweatpants with a soft cotton shirt to smarten them up and voila – your jogging bottoms are now office appropriate. You can even pair your joggers with heels for a casual yet sassy look. 

IT’S ALL ABOUT COLOUR

In the past year, life seems to have been put on mute. To reclaim some control and add a shot of vibrancy back into your everyday, it’s time to forget those relatively conservative office colours in the traditional sphere of grey, burgundy and blue. Instead, bright colours are your buddies in 2021, bringing some much needed fun to your workwear wardrobe. 

If you’re new to wearing bright colours, use colourful accessories as a jumping point before going all in. Accessories can bring a dash of colour and flash of light – and life – to your outfits without you having to invest in a whole new collection.  

If you’re going to jump in head-to-toe in full outfits of colour, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, while you’re of course free to mix and match colours as you want, try not to wear more than four colours at once – just like wearing too many patterns, this can get jarring on the eye. 

Secondly, it’s a good idea to match your colours to the season  – think pastels for summer and unique, exciting shades of blue in winter. And last but not least – remember that there aren’t really any rules when it comes to colour mixing, just suggestions. The most important thing is to wear colours that make you happy. 

BEST BAG BUDDIES

We know that we just said bright colours are your buddies, but a bag is going to be your BFF when you return to the office. During lockdown, we’ve relied on our pockets for daily walks and we looked to canvas tote bags for our supermarket shopping. In the process, our handbags have been relegated to the back of our closets, gathering dust and wondering if they’ll ever see light again (aren’t we all?).

When we finally do emerge from whatever lockdown limbo we’re in, our handbags are going to be more essential than ever. New must-carry items like hand sanitisers, facemasks, disinfectant wipes, and isopropyl wipes for phones need to be easily accessible. Enter our long lost friend – the handbag. 

Seeing as they are going to be an essential item, have fun with it; handbags can look great, and complete your work outfit in a succinct, stylish way. 

BE YOURSELF 

We’ve been living in our loungewear for so many months now, and many of us have truly embraced that comfortable, casual feeling. However, there are those of us who love to dress formally, and that’s fine, too. 

To quote Scott Cawood, the CEO of WorldatWork, via the The Atlantic; “It’s no secret that there’s a rising premium on being yourself, being an individual, bringing your full self to work, broader expression of who you are.” We couldn’t agree more.

DRESS APPROPRIATELY 

Long gone are the days when you had to dress a certain, prescriptive way in the workplace, and personally, we’re delighted to see the back of those strict, stringent dress codes. It feels like the pandemic has only quickened this change, with focus now falling on your output and effort, not your stylistic choices.

In the future, we expect the entire dress code to be summed up in five simple words: ‘’Dress appropriately for the occasion’’. Enough said.

If you don’t see yourself ever returning to the office, and you’re planning to work from home permanently, then check out these tips on how to prepare for the transition.

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BRIDAL SHOWER ETIQUETTE: WHAT EVERY GUEST SHOULD KNOW

Editorial Team
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Not another American tradition that’s being copied in the UK, we hear you cry! We already have Black Friday and Baby Showers…do we really need another date on the calendar founded for commercialism and profit?

In fact, your protests may have been a little erroneous. Technically, bridal showers are, in fact, Dutch in origin, with a history dating back to before the USA was even formed. Legend has it that these celebrations started in the 16th century when a young Dutch girl’s father refused to pay her dowry as he disapproved of her marriage. Villagers then showered her with gifts to help her start her new life, and a modern alternative to the dowry system was born! Anyway, we digress. 

Nowadays, bridal showers have evolved to become a party for the bride, giving them a chance to take a break from the intensity of wedding planning and spend some time with their friends and family. More civilised than a hen party, it’s a chance for guests to shower the bride-to-be with wishes, good luck and gifts. It also gives the bride’s loved ones a chance to meet and bond before the big day. 

If you’ve never been to a bridal shower, then you may be unsure of the etiquette involved. We’re here to help with that; here’s some bridal shower etiquette tips that every guest should know.

WHO ARRANGES THE BRIDAL SHOWER?

Traditionally, it’s the responsibility of the maid of honour (with a little help from the bridesmaids) to organise proceedings. However, anything goes, and ‘tradition’ doesn’t really apply to an event so recently adopted here in the UK. Even the bride herself can arrange it herself! 

CAN I HAVE A HEN DO AND A BRIDAL SHOWER?

A bride can have a hen and a bridal shower. Infact, it’s not unheard of for a bride to have several bridal showers with different groups of friends. Generally speaking, bridal showers are a much more lowkey, laid back affair and are perfect for some of the more senior members of the family!

WHEN SHOULD IT BE HELD? 

Tradition dictates that bridal showers are held four to six weeks before the wedding. However, there’s no reason it can’t actually be held in the same week as the wedding, allowing out-of-town guests to attend without having to make a long journey twice. 

WHERE SHOULD IT BE HELD?

Well, anywhere you want. However, bridal showers are usually a fairly modest event and held at someone’s house. We think it’s important to take into consideration people’s budgets here – weddings cost huge amounts of money for guests these days, and having a destination bridal shower alongside a hen do and wedding is a bit much, perhaps.

WHO SHOULD YOU INVITE?

The bride’s nearest and dearest, of course. However, marthastewartweddings.com rightly point out that “because it’s understood that guests should bring a present to a shower, it’s not appropriate to invite people whom you don’t plan to include in the wedding itself. One noted exception is an office shower; it’s not usually possible to invite all of your colleagues to the wedding, but they may want to help you celebrate nonetheless.” Decisions, decisions.

IS THE GIFT FOR THE COUPLE OR THE BRIDE?

Since it’s a bridal shower, many guests believe that it’s only appropriate to buy a gift for the bride. However, it’s not obligatory; you can get something for her new home, an item that both the bride and groom will benefit from, or if you want, you can get something specifically for the bride. 

That said, if you’re planning to customise something unique to you and the bride, or you want to bring a special gift for the bride not the happy couple as a duo, then the bridal shower is your best chance. For the wedding or any other event that includes the couple, the gift should be for both of them. 

WHAT’S AN APPROPRIATE BRIDAL SHOWER GIFT?

Anything that the couple or the bride wants is an appropriate bridal shower gift. However, if you’re planning on choosing a wedding gift from the couple’s registry list, then you should get creative with the bridal shower gift. If you’re looking for bridal shower gift ideas solely for the bride, try to make it personal. You can get a customised necklace that has her name or her partner’s name on, a gift voucher for her favourite spa in the run up to the Big Day, or even a congratulations video from her favourite celebrity.

HOW MUCH SHOULD YOU SPEND ON THE GIFT?

Many people don’t know how much they’re supposed to spend on a bridal shower gift, especially if they’re going to get both an engagement gift and a wedding gift. 

There’s no specific budget for the bridal shower gift, but etiquette states that the wedding gift should be more valuable than the bridal shower gift. You can use the 60-20-20, or the 70-30 rule in case you’re only invited to one pre-wedding event. 

What do all those numbers mean, we hear you ask? Well, you should start by setting a total budget for all the events that you’re going to attend. Let’s say you’re attending the bridal shower and the wedding. In that case, you will spend only 30% of your total budget on the bridal shower gift, and 70% on the wedding gift. If you’re attending more than one pre-wedding event, then 60% goes to the wedding gift, 20% to the bridal shower gift, and the other 20% for the engagement party.

CAN I SKIP THE BRIDAL SHOWER GIFT ALTOGETHER? 

Although it’s not considered good form swerve the gift giving altogether, some guests prefer to get one big gift for the couple instead of two small gifts, but before you do this, you should talk with the bride. 

Generally speaking, it’s not appropriate to attend a bridal shower empty-handed – what were you planning to shower the bride with, water? – and doing so rather defeats the point of the occasion.

WHAT IF YOU CAN’T AFFORD AN EXTRAVAGANT GIFT?

Many guests want to give the couple extravagant gifts, but sometimes they are not able to afford them on their own. If the bride has requested an appliance such as a refrigerator, washing machine, or a television, and you don’t feel comfortable paying for it yourself, you can coordinate with other guests and you can all share the cost of that gift. 

Anyway, it’s the thought that counts; something small, handcrafted and personal to your relationship, even if it only cost a few pounds to put together, has far more resonance than an overly showy present.

WHAT TRADITIONS ARE THERE OTHER THAN GIVING GIFTS?

Games of course! Should you be attending, it might be helpful to the host if some of her guests come armed with some fun activities for any lulls in the atmosphere.

Weddingideasmag.com suggests the following games: 

“Guest Clue: The host will write down questions which apply to each of the guests. The guests will then have an hour to mingle and work out who everyone is. Example: Who is the bride’s oldest friend?”

“Would She Rather? This game is a party favourite. The rules are self-explanatory: show how well you know the bride by answering multiple choice questions about what she’d rather do. Example: Would she rather never drink again or shave her head?”

THE BOTTOM LINE

The bridal shower is a wonderful opportunity in the lead up to the wedding for the bride and her loved ones to luxuriate in a day away from wedding planning and stress. If you’re attending, make sure you bear these bridal shower etiquette tips in mind to ensure the celebration runs as smoothly as possible.

Phew, now you just have to focus on the Big Day itself. Fortunately, we’ve some great advice on wedding etiquette, too; here are 7 tips for being a great guest.

6 SIMPLE DAILY ROUTINE HACKS FOR A HEALTHIER, HAPPIER 2021

Editorial Team
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6 SIMPLE DAILY ROUTINE HACKS FOR A HEALTHIER, HAPPIER 2021

It’s been over a year since the coronavirus pandemic first made waves across the world. At the start of 2020, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was only a temporary event, and we’d soon return to our normal lives as though nothing had happened. But a year on, we are still in the thick of it. Although the future is looking brighter, with vaccinations rolled out and cases falling, we are still subject to restrictions and many people are struggling.

So many of us are uncertain about the future, and for good reason, but there are things you can do to take back a little control of your health and wellbeing. We’re here today to offer some easy, manageable additions you can make to your everyday routine, helping you to prepare to put your best foot forward once restrictions are lifted and we’re launched back into the world. With that in mind, here are 6 simple daily routine hacks for a healthier, happier 2021.

PHONE A LOVED ONE EVERY DAY

Humans are social creatures, dependent on the validation, support and even occasional criticism of their peers for survival. 

Spending time with loved ones is one of the best things you can do for your mental health, and the fact that you can’t meet up with people face to face shouldn’t stand in your way. That said, staying connected throughout lockdown can be tough; sometimes, we feel like there’s not much to report, that another day of screens of various sizes and plenty of fridge-peering doesn’t merit reliving on the phone or via Zoom. 

But maintaining a sense of connection and companionship is so important during these tough times, so make it your mission to phone a loved one each and every day, if only to check in on them and ask if they’re okay. And if you’ve exhausted your list of contacts rather quickly, feel free to message IDEAL for a chat instead! Our email is somewhere right at the bottom of the page.

AN EXTRA ITEM OF FRUIT OR VEG WITH EACH MEAL

Your ‘five-a-day’? So passé. These days, it’s all about getting your ten a day, and then some. 

Indeed, scientists and nutritionists alike have long been saying that ‘5-a-day’ was never really ‘enough’, and was only set at that number to feel realistic and achievable. In fact, we should be consuming at least ten a day for a longer life; doing so could cut 7.8 million premature deaths each year, according to the Imperial College of London.

What’s more, we should be focusing on quality not quantity, and on a rich variety of colours within that magic ten, as ‘eating the rainbow’ means we’re getting the most diverse range of nutrients possible.

Of course, five-a-day is still healthy, but you shouldn’t let these numbers, ratios and calculations discourage you; getting to ten can still be manageable and affordable.

Racking up the ingredients with relatively cheaper dried and frozen products is a prudent way to go about it. In fact, it’s sometimes a more nutritionally smart move to make; freezing at the point of picking locks in all the goodness of an ingredient, and frozen items often have more vitamins than their fresh counterparts.

A simple trick to hit that ten is to always, devotedly add an extra piece of fruit or vegetable to each mealtime. So, throw in some diced banana to your morning bran, some sliced radishes to your lunchtime sarnie and a handful of frozen spinach to your curry tonight. A snack of dried goji berries, desiccated coconut and a few hazelnuts in the afternoon, and it’s job done!

A MORNING GLASS OF WATER

For some, it can be hard to get into the habit of drinking enough water each day to keep your body and brain fighting at full fitness. But according to experts, we should be drinking 6 to 8 glasses a day, minimum, to benefit from water’s potential ability to boost brain function, mood, physical performance and to prevent dehydration. 

So, for a happier, healthier 2021, get into the habit of having a big glass of water soon after you wake up. Doing so early doors can increase alertness and jumpstart your metabolism; no wonder top executives and wellness experts alike swear by this simple, habitual act. 

SHIFT ACTIVITIES BACK INTO ANALOG

As anyone who has looked at their smartphone’s ‘Screen Time’ report will attest, the daily hours we rack up staring into our screens is shocking. Aside from all those precious, real life moments lost to Twitter, Instagram et al, there are some genuine health risks associated with excessive smartphone use, too. Yep, all that swiping, scrolling and clicking could lead to posture issues, a shortened attention span, weight gain, reduced empathy and so much more.

To reduce excessive smartphone use in a manageable way, try to shift some tasks and processes away from your phone and back into the analog world. Reading a book, listening to music on a record player, watching your favourite show on TV (not all that analog, we know), reading the physical newspaper, making phone calls, even making shopping lists with a pen…these things needn’t all be done by staring into a blue light and inevitably getting distracted by memes for hours in the process.

DAILY PROBIOTICS

The tiny bacteria that live in your digestive tract and gut play a crucial role in immunity, skin conditions and even, scientists increasingly believe, your mental health. No wonder it’s often referred to as the ‘second mind’ in nutrition and wellbeing circles. 

One of the best ways to look after your gut and give it what it needs is through a daily dose of probiotics, which provide a potent dose of living, breathing, healthy bacteria straight into your digestive system. In this manner, they repopulate your gut with healthy bacteria to cause a marked uptick in gut health. Check out our tips on improving your gut health for more on this fascinating subject.

30 MINS OF EXERCISE

We’re sure we don’t need to extol the virtues of daily exercise. It’s been reported time and time again that just 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day (or, 150 minutes a week, in total) is just about the best thing you can do for your health and wellbeing. 

But how to get this done while we’re all still stuck at home, we hear you cry? We’re glad you asked; here’s some top tips from the experts on how to get the most from your home workout. You can thank us later.

5 REASONS TO STAY IN AN APART-HOTEL ON YOUR NEXT TRIP TO LONDON

Editorial Team
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5 REASONS TO STAY IN AN APART-HOTEL ON YOUR NEXT TRIP TO LONDON

London; The Big Smoke, LDN, The Swinging City, The Great Wen, Where Royalty Live…

Indeed, just as there are myriad ways to refer to England’s capital, so there is an ever richer diversity of accommodation options to choose from when you’re visiting. From 5 star hotels to renting a single room above a strip club in Soho, all tastes and budgets are catered for. Today, we’re here to extol the virtues of a fairly new concept in town; the apart-hotel.

What is an apart hotel, we hear you ask? Actually, you didn’t really need to ask, did you? Because, as the name suggests, an apart-hotel combines the best of apartment and hotel living into one gloriously convenient yet independent experience.

Also known as a serviced apartment, an apart hotel gives you full access to an entire apartment, helping you live more like a Londoner, but with the added bonus of the usual hotel perks – like a cleaner, concierge and more – thrown in for good measure. Indeed, it’s no surprise luxurious serviced apartments are seeing an uptick in use with the convenience they offer.

Luxury London hotels are notoriously expensive, and let’s face it, the cheaper places in the capital can be a bit grotty. Serviced apartments tend to be a little on the cheaper side on average, and so represent a smart move for those visiting the capital keen on comfort and a few mod-cons. If you’re eager to learn more, here are 5 reasons to stay in an apart-hotel on your next trip to London.

TO COOK OR NOT TO COOK? 

Ever stayed in a hotel and wished for more than a kettle, some sachets of instant coffee and long life milk? Do you hate getting up early so you don’t miss the best of the buffet breakfast, having to make yourself look presentable before your first cup of coffee? Wouldn’t you like the autonomy to make yourself something other than a pot noodle or an instant soup as a late night snack? Well, most apart-hotels come with a fully equipped kitchen which allows you the freedom to eat whenever you want. Result! 

And if you’re trying to keep costs down on your trip, then an apart-hotel is perfect, too. Food is unquestionably one of the most expensive parts of any trip away from home, and London is consistently named as one of the most costly eating-out cities in the world.

At a serviced apartment, you can choose to cook breakfast, lunch or dinner from the comfort of your rented space. Moreover, if you’re hungry in the middle of the night, you’re not restricted to an extortionate packet of peanuts from the minibar. 

London boasts some incredible markets, and one of the joys of staying in a serviced apartment in the city is the chance to delve into those markets, interact with artisan producers and go shopping at butchers and fishmongers for local delicacies. 

That said, just because you’ve booked an apart-hotel doesn’t mean you’re obliged to cook. You can, of course, get a takeaway  – which will probably be better than room service in a hotel where the option is always club sandwich or burger. All in all, where eating is concerned, an apart-hotel offers a win-win situation.

A CHANCE TO LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

A city break shouldn’t be about being constantly on the move, on public transport and in a rush. Instead, it should be about getting to know a place as efficiently as possible, and adapting to the local way of doing things in a manner which allows you a little glimpse of a different way of living. 

You’ll find apart-hotels in neighbourhoods all over the world. If you’re spending a weekend in the Big Smoke, perhaps you want to explore the bright lights of the West End’s world famous theatre district? Maybe the restaurants, breweries and barbers of trendy Hoxton and Shoreditch is more your vibe? Or perhaps you want to see what the Made in Chelsea lifestyle is really like?

Wherever your interests lie, consider a serviced apartment in London as a gateway to a more local way of living. In choosing this kind of accommodation, you can base yourself in a neighbourhood and engage with a community more organically than you would from the launchpad of a big, multi-national hotel.

ROOM TO SWING A CAT 

The thing we like most about apart-hotels is the space. A typical one bedroom apartment is usually twice the size of a hotel room – and even larger than a London rented room – meaning you don’t have to sit on the bed to watch the TV or eat your dinner. Instead, you can spread out on the sofa and luxuriate in the space, imagining you’re a Big City swinger. 

If you’re travelling with friends, then there’s a communal space to dine and lounge around in. All in all, apart-hotels represent a far more sociable, comfortable option than hotels alone.

THE EXTRAS 

We know what you’re thinking; why would I stay in an apart-hotel when I could just rent an entire apartment on AirBnb for less? Well the answer, my friend, lies in the extras. Serviced apartments come with lots of extra benefits, hence the ‘hotel’ part of the portmanteau.

Most apart-hotels offer basic services like housekeeping and security. However, these days, some even offer better amenities than a hotel. You can find serviced apartments with pools, saunas, gyms and fitness centres, all of which your room key gives you instant access to. Many also offer a daily laundry service with fresh linen and sheets like most luxury hotels. Alternatively, the majority are equipped with washing machines, if you prefer to do your own (soil yourself, did you?).

What’s more, you rarely have to worry about slow internet, a common frustration of hotel guests all over the world, since you’ll have access to your own personal connection. As such, apart-hotels are an increasingly popular choice for business travellers.

COST VS HOTELS

So, down to the nitty-gritty; the comparative cost. Generally speaking, serviced apartments are, on average, 30% lower in cost than a hotel stay. And since serviced apartments charge by apartment, not per person, if you’re travelling as a couple or a group, they may well work out even cheaper. Need we say more? 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Apart-hotels promise a home away from home experience, and largely, they fulfill that pledge. Giving you the freedom to finetune your itinerary, if you’re eager to get under the skin of a city, with all the convenience of apartment life combined with the amenities of a hotel, then an apart-hotel could well be for you.

5 WAYS TO ENSURE YOU’RE BUYING QUALITY BATH TOWELS

Editorial Team
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5 WAYS TO ENSURE YOU’RE BUYING QUALITY BATH TOWELS

Once upon a time, choosing the best bath towel was as simple as rubbing the damn thing between thumb and forefinger in the department store to check if it felt soft. These days, a certain amount of intuition and science needs to be applied to the purchase to ensure you’ve got a towel with longevity, durability and that intangible ability to give you a warm, nourishing embrace each and every time you emerge from the shower.

Though it might sound absurd, as with picking out your clothes, cosmetics or shoes, you need to put in similar research efforts to search for the right bath towels. If the durability, fluffiness, and drying capacity of your towels matter to you (if not, we’re certainly not staying over), then it’s essential to consider certain important features. 

Whether you need towels for the beach, swimming, exercise, camping or bathing, here are 5 ways to ensure you’re buying quality bath towels.

LIVING IN A MATERIAL WORLD

Towels are generally made of cotton, bamboo, microfibre or polyester. Though cotton is the preferred fabric for bath towels that are generally soft and absorbent, it can be heavier than other materials. Should you be buying a cotton towel, prioritise those made from 100% Supima or Pima cotton. 

Bamboo towels tend to be lighter, and are incredibly soft. In fact, they are said to get softer the more you use them; a welcome change from the rough effect your cotton towels might develop after a few washes, don’t you think? Though bamboo towels are absorbent, they take a really long time to dry comprehensively. What’s more, they have no antibacterial properties.

Alternatively, copper-infused bath towels are another option. Soft, absorbent, and quick-drying like cotton and microfibre, the copper infusion harnesses natural antimicrobial properties to inhibit bacteria and mold, making them a hygienic and long-lasting choice.

Microfibre is another option, and makes for a high-performance material. It is soft, ultra-absorbent, and lightweight. If you have sensitive skin and hair, microfibre is a wise choice, as it has amazing moisture-wicking, ensuring towels made from microfibre dry fast. It also boasts antimicrobial properties, which means these towels work well for allergy sufferers. That said, microfibre towels tend to be rougher than cotton or bamboo, making them ideal as a guest towel, but perhaps not for everyday use.

If you’re keen to learn more, then click here to explore lightweight and compact towels. 

WEIGHT

The weight of your towel is usually measured in terms of GSM (grams per square metre) and generally speaking, the higher GSM, the more absorbent the towel. 

A good quality, everyday bath towel should have at least 450 GSM, and preferably more. Less (between 300 and 400) indicates that the towel is lightweight and easy to carry for your trips to the pool, gym, or beach. 

The weight of the towel also highlights its density and absorbance level. It’s best to strike the right balance between weight and density to get the right absorbency level for your use, but for bath towels, you should be aiming for the 500s. Anything below 300 GSM and let’s be honest, it’s probably better suited as toilet paper. 

SIZE 

When you buy bath towels online or in the shop, you need to ensure that they are the right size. Pay attention to the sizing for a comfortable, comprehensive wrap around effect with a cosy and luxurious feel. 

Standard towels measure 140cm x 70cm. If you prefer extra-large or jumbo sizes (known as bath sheets) these are available at around 160cm x 90 cm, though they cost considerably more. For kids, 120cm x 60cm is standard. Hooded bath towels for the little ones are a great option, and look super cute to boot!

And if you’re looking for a hand towel, 100cm x 50cm is about right.

IS IT PRONE TO SHRINKING?

Though it’s understandably not widely advertised, the truth is that all towel materials are prone to a little shrinking, particularly when machine washed. Cotton is most liable to shrink, though some of that loss is mitigated if the GSM of your towel is especially high. Bamboo tends to shrink over time, particularly when washed on a high heat. If you’re keen to avoid shrinkage, it’s best to hand wash your towels, though this is less hygienic than high heat machine washing.

On the other hand, microfibre tends to be less prone to shrinking. Since these materials are made up of synthetic components, they don’t wrinkle or shrink under high heat in the same way as cotton or bamboo. 

DESIGN

It’s an element of bathroom interior design so often overlooked. But your bath towel – if you hang it on a radiator or dedicated towel rack – is always on display, and therefore, its appearance does matter.

Therefore, the bath towels you choose should look elegant around the home. For this reason, it’s wise to select solid colours which complement the overall aesthetic and colour palette of your bathroom. Not doing so may cause a jarring, clumsy effect.

THE BOTTOM LINE

To wrap up (pun intended), choosing the right bath towel is a matter of personal preference. However, consider your requirements and make the ideal choice. If you want denser towels with plush loops of yarn, cotton may be the right choice. But if you want a more robust material with a soft, ultra-absorbent, quick-drying, and durable towel, consider microfibre towels. 

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