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6 OF THE BEST VEGAN PIZZAS FOR DELIVERY IN LONDON

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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6 OF THE BEST VEGAN PIZZAS FOR DELIVERY IN LONDON

Vegan pizza has come a long way in recent years, and the shift in quality and expectation is particularly pronounced in the capital. Where once the request for a vegan pizza was met with a hastily arranged sliced white topped with a squirt of ketchup, now there are fully-fledged 100% vegan pizzerias, serving up carefully sourced, wood-fired slices of the good stuff. On top of that, some of London’s most beloved pizza restaurants have started to give as much care and attention to their vegan offerings as they do their Diavola, Capricciosa et al. 

Whether you’re continuing Veganuary into February and beyond and need your pizza fix, or you’re a longstanding vegan who simply loves the alchemy of dough, cheese and tomato, or you just want to try something new, here are 6 of the best vegan pizzas for delivery in London.

PUREZZA, IN CAMDEN

Starting out in the UK’s Capital of Vegan, Brighton, Purezza is the UK’s first plant based pizzeria, doing vegan, gluten free sourdough, ‘pioneering’ pizzas which don’t sacrifice on flavour. The Camden branch is their second outpost (they now have one in Bristol and Hove, too), with the quality remaining consistent throughout. 

This isn’t a cardboardy, synthetic tasting affair. Huge wood fired ovens churn out pizzas which could pass muster in any Neapolitan pizzeria, with dough matured for forty-eight hours and their pride-and-joy, a brown rice based vegan mozzarella (which took two years to develop), tasting a close to the real thing as you’ll find on a vegan version.

Purezza, meaning ‘purity’ and sounding a bit like pizza (that was the thinking behind the name, right?) also use heaps of delicious seasonal veg to great effect. If you’re to order just one pizza, make it the Parmagiana Party, which was bestowed with the honour of ‘National Pizza of the Year’ at the National Pizza Awards last year. For a pizza so proudly vegan, this was big news. 

Arguably the finest vegan pizza in London, and quite possibly the country. Be aware that this branch of Purezza only delivers locally to Camden and surrounding boroughs, though click and collect is also available.

Order: deliveroo.co.uk

VOODOO RAYS, IN DALSTON & PECKHAM

Back in those halcyon days when we were actually allowed to congregate in pubs, bars and restaurants, Voodoo Rays attracted late-night pizza lovers from all over East London for their by-the-slice New York style pizza. 

For the time being just open for click and collect or delivery, the restaurant’s Queen Vegan pizza has earned something of a cult following among London’s hungry vegan community, and it’s easy to see why. The pizza focuses on vegetables and sauces which complement each other perfectly, rather than utilising any meat or dairy substitutes; yep, there’s no cheese on this guy, vegan or otherwise, and it’s all the better for it.

Instead, the Queen Vegan is topped with red onion, sun-blushed tomatoes, artichoke hearts, green olives, and both tomato and green sauce. Absolutely delicious, and available by the slice, or in 12 or 22 inches. 

A 10 inch gluten free base is also available.

Order: voodoorays.com, deliveroo.co.uk

BASILICO, IN HAMSTEAD, WIMBLEDON, MARLEYBONE & MANY MORE

Should Purezza’s Camden location or Voodoo Rays lack of ‘cheese’ be an obstacle to you ordering the best vegan pizza delivery in London, then fear not. With eleven outposts covering every compass point of the city, Basilico has got your vegan pizza needs covered. 

Serving up classic thin crust, stone-baked pizzas (note; not wood-fired), Basilico boasts a wide variety of vegetarian pizzas and four dedicated vegan options: A Sicilian, which uses vegan feta, a red pepper pesto, and artichokes; one loaded with vegetables including aubergine, courgette and fresh tomato; a classic Margherita using vegan mozzarella; and a white-based pizza using artichoke crema as the sauce, and topped with plenty more artichoke and courgette. Gluten free bases are also available. 

Order: ubereats.com, just-eat.co.uk, deliveroo.co.uk

ICCO PIZZA, IN FITZROVIA & CAMDEN

With two branches in Central London and Camden, Icco Pizza is renowned for its incredibly affordable pizzas, with the cheapest (the Marinara, which is incidentally vegan, too) clocking in at just £3.95. Though not an 100% vegetarian or vegan restaurant, Icco’s vegan pizzas are beloved of London’s vegans.

Go for either the Vegan Veggie, which includes aubergines, courgettes and caramelised onions alongside vegan cheese, or the Vegan Seitan, which uses meat-free salami and mushrooms, for those craving that umami meaty kick. At just £7.90 and £8.50 respectively, these are some of the city’s cheapest vegan pizzas, too.

Order: icco.co.uk, deliveroo.co.uk

PICKYWOPS, BRICK LANE

With an 100% vegan menu, and Italian, pizza making heritage running in the family (the chefs are part of Italy’s AVPN Pizza Association), PickyWops sounds like it has alighted on the perfect recipe for vegan pizzas. 

Rest assured, Cristiano and Andrea don’t miss; the pizzas are superb, with a variety of out-there toppings and interesting flavour combinations sure to tickle a set of tastebuds recently tested by too much quinoa and quorn. That’s not to say tradition isn’t respected in the duo’s offerings; close your eyes, take a bite of their traditional Margherita (the ‘Maggie’) and you could be in Naples.

But if you are seeking novelty and excitement, you’ll find it, too. To celebrate Veganuary 2021, PickyWops teamed up with four vegan food legends on a ‘PickyWops and Friends’ five pizza delivery box bundle. Costing £44 and available for delivery nationwide, all you have to do is warm the pizzas through in the oven at home. With bases made from burnt wheat and plantain, and a roll call of toppings which include kimchi, BBQ chicken and even vegan nduja, this is one exciting vegan pizza party. As of early February, this fantastic offer was still going! Get it while it’s still hot.

If that’s not enough, the Brick Lane restaurant is offering 50% off all their pizzas for delivery. There really is no reason not to!

Order: deliveroo.co.uk, just-eat.co.uk

VEGAN EXPRESS, IN TOOTING

Hey, the clue’s in the title with this one. Though this popular South London vegan restaurant doesn’t only serve pizzas – the menu is a globetrotting, generous affair, with tofish and chips rubbing shoulders with vegan lasagna and even miso roasted jackfruit – Vegan Express specialises in 100% vegan pizzas, with more than a dozen on the menu at any one time.

The ‘garden pizza’ is a best seller, and a celebration of fresh, delicious vegetables. Topped with vegan mozzarella, mushrooms, peppers, courgette, cherry tomatoes and rocket, you’ll get your five-a-day in a single slice! Or, if you fancy rewriting the rulebook from every angle, the Seitan Pineapple pizza includes vegan pepperoni and – you guessed it by the name – pineapple. 

Gluten free bases, made from rice and quinoa flour, are also available for an extra £2. 

Order: veganexpress.co.uk, ubereats.com, deliveroo.co.uk, just-eat.co.uk

Should you be looking for more pizza delivery south of the river, do check out these 6 of the best takeaway and delivery Neapolitan pizzas in South London to get even more of your pizza fix!

5 PROACTIVE CHANGES TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE THAT FRESH START IN 2021

Editorial Team
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5 PROACTIVE CHANGES TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE THAT FRESH START IN 2021

Ideal for rebooting your life.

2020 has been a tough year for everyone. And while we wouldn’t ever want to wish away the years, this is one which we’re certainly happy to see the back of.  

For so many, this turbulent, tumultuous year has brought about something of an existential crisis. Indeed, in the face of a global pandemic, an uncertain job market and a volatile, reactionary political climate, folk of all ages are reevaluating their lives.

With ‘normal’ work and social life slowing down and at points grinding to a complete halt, many have embraced the opportunity to look inwards. What they’ve found was a deep yearning for something new. With that in mind, here are 5 proactive changes to help you achieve that fresh start in 2021, IDEAL for rebooting your life.

EXPERIENCE A NEW CITY 

Whilst upping sticks right now certainly presents obstacles, enjoying a fresh start in a new city could present opportunities and experiences unimaginable during this most solitary of years.

Fortunately, change is afoot in the way we operate in the office, with many no longer needing to attend a physical office at all. Which begs the question; what’s keeping you living in your current city? If the sole reason was work, then experiencing a new city, if only for a short time, might bring about the fresh start you’re seeking.

No longer confined to five days a week in an office and desperate for a change of scene from the new, already staid Working From Home (WFH) existence, we’ll see a significant rise in the ‘Workcation’, with travellers choosing new cities to live and work in for short, manageable stints. Embracing digital nomadism could grant you access to some of the world’s most exciting cities, and after such a drab year, that idea has got our heart fluttering.

A CHANGE IN CAREER

Careering into a career change? For many, it might not sound like the smartest of moves when job security is at an all-time low. Indeed, we’ve all seen the recent troubling news about rising unemployment rates, with nearly 5% out of work in the UK between August and October. Many more are living a state of uncertainty about their job’s future. 

More still are considering using this period of upheaval as the catalyst for a career change they’ve been longing for. The work/life balance, pros and cons of working from home, and an increased desire for financial stability have all been drawn into sharp focus, and the UK looks set for drastic reappraisals of the very meaning of ‘work’ next year. 

But with many Brits feeling a little hollow right now, if you are in need of a fresh start, then a change in career might be just the answer. Before leaping into anything, check out these tips on the signs that now is the ideal time for a career change.

MAKE MAINTAINING YOUR HEALTH A PRIORITY

If 2020 has taught us something, it’s that our health is so important. As fresh starts go, and if you value feeling fresh, then it’s high time you focused more fully on your health.

While many make new year’s resolutions to join a gym in January or record 365 runs across the entirety of the year, it can be seriously hard to maintain motivation. Make this the year when you don’t let life get in the way of your physical health, by making fitness fun and part of your daily routine, as well as enlisting the help of friends and colleagues in your exercise goals.

Alternatively, many find that extra motivation from getting competitive; apps like Map My Run for runners, Strava for cycling and the Apple Watch Activity app all provide regular feedback, a certain level of gamification and new goal setting which are designed to give you that extra push to keep at it. 

CALL ME BY MY (NEW) NAME

Did you know that changing your name is easier than opening a new bank account? For a different slant on making that fresh start, a new name would certainly herald a certain sense of refinement and progress in your life. Should a new title, first name or even surname make you feel empowered, then go for it! Alternatively, if your name recalls a past you’d like to forget or even a famous face you’d rather not be associated with, then changing it is as easy as filling out a form and filing it.

Just don’t follow Phoebe from Friends’ lead and change it to Princess Consuela Banana Hammock – well you could if you wanted, it’s your fresh start, after all. 

A FRESH PERSPECTIVE

Develop an attitude of gratitude in 2021. Though last year had us feeling pretty bleak and world-weary, taking a step back and realising what we were grateful for helped put things in perspective. Next year and to embrace those fresh starts, why not make practicing gratitude part of your everyday routine? 

Many happy, content people swear by the keeping of a gratitude diary, in which they list 3 things they’re grateful for each day. Doing so has been said to rewire your brain to be more optimistic; and we could all do with a bit of that next year, right?

4 IDEAL BENEFITS OF GIVING PRE-OWNED JEWELLERY AS A GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS  

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL BENEFITS OF GIVING PRE-OWNED JEWELLERY AS A GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS  

It’s a well-known fact that the best presents come in small packages. Indeed, jewellery is an ever popular and ever present gift to give that special someone at Christmas. But, would you give a pre-loved peice this Christmas? Experts in pre-owned luxury jewellery, William May, conducted a survey of 3,000 Brits to find out how many would give a pre-owned gift at Christmas and what their feelings are about the idea of second-hand gifting.

The survey found that almost half of Brits (43%) say they would gladly give a pre-owned gift at Christmas. We’re all for it. Endless amounts of wrapping paper, plastic toys and Christmas gadgets redundant by the same time next year; it’s enough to make most shudder in light of this year’s escalation in climate change news. 

So, with the finding that 1 in 8 admit they get more satisfaction from purchasing second-hand items than brand new, there really is no reason not to. Buying second-hand gifts will not only help reduce our Christmas carbon footprint, it can also save some pennies, provide a completely unique gift and in many cases, give back to a charitable cause. With that in mind, here are 4 IDEAL benefits of giving pre-owned jewellery as a gift this Christmas.

HELP THE ENVIRONMENT 

Buying previously loved pieces is a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way to shop, make no mistake. Indeed, ‘circular’ shopping is a movement currently gaining some serious traction; keeping gifts in circulation rather than contributing to the demand for new production just makes sense in terms of sustainability.

The mining of precious metals, diamonds and gemstones has a huge impact on the environment, not least the human rights issues in the areas where the materials are mined. Pre-owned jewellery reduces the demand for new jewellery, and subsequently, there will be less of a burden on heavily mined areas for new gemstones and precious metals.

MORE FOR YOUR MONEY 

Jewellery depreciates in value over the years; it’s just a fact. But if you’re looking for a precious piece with inherent value and a sophisticated look, then second hand might be the best way to go. Whatever your budget, you’re likely to find a better quality diamond, metal or gemstone at a more affordable price if you go down this route. Many of the big jewellers, such as William May, Ramsdens and the Fine Jewellery Company have a second-hand section on their website replete with eye-catching pieces at knockdown prices.

A DIVERSE CHOICE OF STYLES

If you’ve ever walked through the jewellery lanes of Brighton, London’s Hatton Garden or Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, then you’ll understand just how much choice there is when it comes to secondhand jewellery. In fact, the diversity on offer far trumps the variety of new pieces available. So, whether you’re after a vintage piece from a different era like the 1920’s, a modern item which is after a new home, or an esoteric piece with a rare backstory, then second-hand is certainly the smart option.

GET SOMETHING UNIQUE & DISTINCT 

Kintsugi, the Japanese art of fixing broken crockery to create a totally unique piece, is an ethos which could certainly be applied to second-hand jewellery shopping. Indeed, the Japanese believe that through repairing a smashed plate, for instance, with gold, the ‘scars’ of the piece are celebrated, and something totally personal to the owner (or mender) is created. Any item of second-hand jewellery will have endured a life, history and possible blemishes on the road to your purchase. Channel the energy of kintsugi and embrace this as a positive. A lovely thought.

5 SIGNS THAT NOW IS THE IDEAL TIME TO CHANGE CAREER

Editorial Team
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5 SIGNS THAT NOW IS THE IDEAL TIME TO CHANGE CAREER

The country’s job market is still navigating the impact of the coronavirus. Sadly, the unemployment rate is rising as the effects of the pandemic hit different sectors of the economy. As a result of these seismic shifts, job security is more important than ever for many. 

However, if you’ve already been thinking about changing jobs, then now may be the time to do just that. Indeed, while some areas of the economy are having to make tough decisions, others are growing, expanding and using changing workplace cultures as a catalyst for change. 

Leaving this dreadful year behind and starting afresh in 2021? It sounds good to us. If you’re wondering whether this is the right move for you, then read on; here are 5 signs that now is the IDEAL time to change career.

QUESTIONING YOUR PURPOSE

Mory Fontanez, a purpose coach and CEO of 822 Group Fontanez, told Business Insider that “Crisis is an opportunity…it asks us to pause and look deeply and honestly at all the things we have been doing day in and day out without really thinking about whether those things fulfilled us, played on our strengths, or aligned with our own purpose.”

2020 has had us questioning just about every aspect of our lives, and if that includes big doubts surfacing about your career, then perhaps this is a sign that you need a shift in career alignment if you’re to find new meaning in life?

A CURRENT LACK OF FULFILLMENT 

If you’re currently feeling unfulfilled at work, then it’s time to question why you’re tolerating such discontentment. You might have once loved your current role. However, it’s not uncommon for someone to experience burnout if they have been in the same career position for years. This burnout can lead to feelings of boredom, tiredness, and a lack of that all-important feeling of fulfilment. 

This type of stagnation needs to be avoided where possible, However, before you hand in your notice, ask first whether you simply require a few changes to your present role. If that’s not the case, you may enact wholesale change to bring back your motivation and drive.

YOUR SITUATION HAS CHANGED  

Whether you just fell into your current career because of circumstance or it has been carefully laid out since your school days, life can throw a few curveballs in your direction. These curveballs can alter your situation in a drastic manner, to the point that it forces you into a career change. 

It’s time to embrace these curveballs, catching them with open arms. Should changing circumstances require you to move city or country, or work longer or fewer hours, then a fresh, optimistic 2021 represents the ideal chance to take this opportunity and run with it.

YOU’RE CRAVING STABILITY IN AN EVER CHANGING WORLD

The world is constantly changing and evolving. Some jobs from 50 years ago are obsolete today, and many more might go that way because of automation, technological advances and the ever-changing tastes of a fickle public. 

However, there are some types of job which endure and will stand the test of time. Should you be craving stability in an uncertain world, then now is the time to seek new skills which could cement you a predictable, stable role for life.

While it can be a challenge, there are ways to gain the necessary education and experience to move into a new career role. If you’re in need of focus, it’s worth seeking out training and apprenticeships for gas engineering, plumbing, and other in-demand trades. With this type of foundation in place, you will have the qualifications and knowledge employers seek. 

YOUR HEALTH IS BEING AFFECTED

Do you ever feel like the stress of your job has become overwhelming? Maybe the tedious nature of your work or the negativity of colleagues are getting you down and causing you to feel depressed? These are all valid reasons to leave your job behind as your mental health is not something to compromise. 

If you feel there’s a different role out there for you which is less stressful and more enjoyable, don’t be afraid of making the steps to change career and improve your health. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Do any of these reasons resonate with you? The good news is that, in this day and age, there’s a wide-ranging number of ways to make the move into a different career. From apprenticeships to online university courses, volunteering and honest, hard graft, there are no limitations to what you can do. 

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR VEGANUARY 2021 EXTRA DELICIOUS

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR VEGANUARY 2021 EXTRA DELICIOUS

Last year, a quarter of a million people went Vegan for January. This year, that number looks to be even higher, with people across Britain welcoming in the new decade with good intentions of living a cleaner, leaner life. Whether you’ve chosen lettuce and legumes because of environmental concerns, animal rights or for your own health reasons, there are a few ways to inject maximum flavour into your diet without turning to meat and dairy. With that in mind, we’ve teamed up with George’s Kitchen, a West London catering company, to bring you these; our  5 IDEAL tips for making your Veganuary 2021 extra delicious.

RAPESEED OIL

We all know the transformative powers of butter in a dish. But a small to generous splash of rapeseed oil can work just as many wonders, helping to unlock a series of flavours that you didn’t even know your dish could have, vegan or otherwise. From pasta and hummus to vegan-friendly cakes, rapeseed oil is a highly versatile, hugely delicious fat. Harness its complex flavour this Veganuary. 

SEA SALT

You rarely want to taste pure, unadulterated salt in the food you eat, but a liberal sprinkling of the good stuff will activate so many mouth-watering flavours in any savoury (and occasionally sweet) dish you create. And the best thing about sea salt? It’s all natural and totally vegan. Use the flakey stuff as a ‘finishing’ seasoning just before you serve up for best results.

PICKLES, PRESERVES & FERMENTS

This obviously requires a little foresight and planning, but the results are worth the effort. By preserving various fruits and vegetables, you can extract new, exciting and deeply delicious flavours from them. You also create new textures from familiar ingredients that you may have gotten bored with. It’s a practice beloved of top restaurants and one which any good home cook should have in their armoury (and fridge). Suddenly, vegan food is very, very interesting indeed. Check out world class restaurant Noma’s Guide to Fermentation for top tips on getting started. 

ADAPT THE DISHES YOU LOVE

Just because your favourite meals consist of a variety of meat and dairy products doesn’t mean you have to cut them out all together and live off a diet of seeds and veggies. With a little research and creativity, there’s almost always a delicious way to keep everything, from burgers and pizzas to cheesecake and ice cream, safely within the boundaries of your vegan diet. You can replace egg yolks with aquafaba (that liquid you find in a tin of chickpeas) to make mayonnaise; cream can be traded for coconut cream; soy milk can enrichen your coffee…the list goes on.  

SEASONAL & LOCAL

Let’s face it, a spear of asparagus picked thousands of miles away and then flown over to your plate…it’s not only going to be lacking freshness (you’ll have to wait until April for local varieties) but it’s also going to be racking up some serious air miles in the process.

Instead, use what’s abundant and around you at this time of year; the product will taste more delicious and it won’t have travelled so far. Right now, beetroot, sprouts, celeriac, Jerusalem artichokes, kale, leeks and turnips are all at their best. Oh, and British apples and pears are looking great, too. Delicious, healthy and environmentally friendly? That’s what you’re here for, right?

5 FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SWAPPING AN EXTENDED TRIP FOR A LONG-TERM MOVE

Editorial Team
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5 FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SWAPPING AN EXTENDED TRIP FOR A LONG-TERM MOVE
5 FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SWAPPING AN EXTENDED TRIP FOR A LONG-TERM MOVE

Perhaps you have spent a few months working abroad or exploring a new country and as a result, you’ve fallen in love with the destination, the culture and the people? Maybe you have no urge or inclination to return to Britain?

You couldn’t imagine leaving, and so you’ve decided that instead of heading home, you’re going to up sticks and settle somewhere new. While the concept of moving abroad is, of course, an extremely exciting one, it’s also much like falling in love; though you may be head over heels at first sight, committing in the longer term is something which requires foresight and a clear, composed head. We’re here to help with that; here are 5 factors to consider when swapping an extended trip for a long-term move.

KNOW THAT IT WILL FEEL VERY DIFFERENT TO AN EXTENDED TRIP

Though you may have fallen in love with a particular country or culture, it’s crucial to remember that a holiday spent seeing a place’s best side is going to be a very different experience to actually living there. 

When you head off on an extended trip, it’s extremely exciting because you don’t know what you’re going to find or what experiences you are going to have. Whereas, when you’ve moved to somewhere new, you’re moving there to live a more normal day-to-day life, and it’s important to understand the distinction. Remember that the grass isn’t always greener…

5 FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SWAPPING AN EXTENDED TRIP FOR A LONG-TERM MOVE

REAPPRAISE YOUR REASONS

You need to think carefully about your reasons for wanting to move abroad, and examine whether they’ll be genuinely catered for and fulfilled in your new home country. 

Better weather is nice, sure, but it won’t be enough to help you stay and set roots properly in a new country and call it home. A delicious cuisine is, of course, hugely appealing, but what about the times between lunch and dinner? How will you fill those with meaning?

Indeed, you should think carefully about what you’ll be leaving behind — will it be easy to come back to visit family and friends in the UK? Will you get homesick? Will the change in pattern and routine put a smile on your face, or would you miss your usual everyday life? 

Then, of course, you need to consider the difference in climate (of course sunshine is nice, but if you burn easily, you might be sick of it after a few weeks!), the living costs associated with that country, and even something as basic as the cuisine, as we mentioned. If you enjoy change and embrace a challenge, then fantastic, but if you find comfort in routine and familiarity, you might want to reappraise your reasons. 

THERE WILL BE A LOT OF PAPERWORK 

It’s important to also realise that when it comes to moving to somewhere for the long-haul, there will be a lot of paperwork to complete. Bureaucracy and moving abroad go hand-in-hand, wherever your destination is. 

You need to take care of the administrative side of things as a matter of priority, to make sure that you’re doing things to the letter of the law. This means that you should take the time to find a lawyer to smooth out those rough edges and uncertainties.

The experts at Manchester Immigration Lawyer ltd recommend that ‘’applying for a visa renewal may be time-consuming, and your forms must be submitted before your current permit expires. In other words, it is essential to act as soon as possible.’’ This is particularly true if you’re currently in your chosen country on a tourist visa and want to change its terms before its expiration date, as not doing so could mean you’re breaking the law.

NEIGHBOURHOODS

It’s also important to remember that certain neighbourhoods you may have fallen in love with while on holiday may not be as appropriate for living in long term.

Instead, it’s best to give a few neighbourhoods a ‘trial run’ in your new city, to find which best suits your unique needs. In any big city, boroughs, districts, even blocks, are hugely diverse, with each a completely different proposition to the next. Within every neighbourhood lies a hugely diverging, unique personality and local pride. 

It’s best practice to arrange a short term lease (sublet) in the city for a couple of months to get your bearings and figure out which neighbourhood best chimes with your expectations. AirBnb is useful for this, though you should check if it’s actually legal in the city you’re heading to prior to arrival. Many major urban centres, including Barcelona, Paris, New York and San Francisco, have placed major restrictions on, or outright banned, the platform. Hotels, hostels, or even Couchsurfing, might be a better bet. 

WORK AND MONEY

If you’re not moving specifically for a new role you’ve landed, then you have two options; find a job once you arrive in your new city, or work remotely. Fortunately, there are loads of jobs you can do while travelling or transient, which could keep you going as you settle in somewhere new. These include teaching English as a foreign language, working as a translator or interpreter, or even embarking on a career as a flight attendant. What’s more, with remote working now enforced in many countries globally, now seems like the ideal time to continue with your current job, ‘working from home’, but that home is somewhere abroad. Perfect!

If you’re interested in how to save money whilst working remotely, do check out our 5 IDEAL tips for managing your finances as a digital nomad for more.

5 IDEAL TIPS TO HELP YOU TRANSITION FROM UNI LIFE TO THE WORKING WORLD

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS TO HELP YOU TRANSITION FROM UNI LIFE TO THE WORKING WORLD

Every student dreams of the day they graduate with honours and cruise immediately into their dream job, with fanfare and fireworks soundtracking the moment they stroll through the office doors for the first time. 

The reality often hits somewhat differently. Following graduation, the job hunt can be a merciless affair and climbing the career ladder fraught with difficulty. With sacrifices required in order to bolster that CV, the lifestyle change from university to the world of work can sometimes feel jarring and tough to manage.

To acclimatise and adjust as seamlessly as possible to your new routine, here are 5 IDEAL tips to help you transition from uni life to the working world.

DON’T HAVE UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS

As much as you would want to jump straight out of university and into a great job, this very rarely happens. Sometimes you may have to work jobs which diverge from your skillset in order to have the money to live while you keep an eye out for other opportunities; this is totally normal and something all graduates go through.

In the current job market, it doesn’t make sense to approach it as though you’re above certain roles. Understand that this is a transition period, and don’t be too harsh on yourself. As long as you are making progress, such as filing job applications, volunteering to help those less fortunate, and taking any opportunity that comes your way, then relax; know the future will bring opportunities abundant. As an old, very successful advert made by a one-time-graduate opined, ”good things come to those who wait”.

CONTINUE WORKING ON YOURSELF

Just because you have graduated doesn’t mean that there is nothing else left to learn. In fact, you’re only just getting started. Keep on honing your skills by acquiring more of them, keeping things versatile and adaptable to as many roles as possible. 

The more qualifications you have on your CV, the better your chances of landing your dream job. Additionally, work on your soft skills such as teamwork, attentiveness, flexibility, building relationships, and diligence. Hard skills may earn your first job, but soft skills play a significant role in pushing you up the job ladder.

MAKE IMPORTANT CAREER DECISIONS

As much as you may not have many work options at the moment, the transition period is a time to strategise and make career decisions. If you are an international student, you can apply for ILR with the aid of immigration lawyers, which will ensure you settle legally and give yourself more flexibility in the job market.

Of course, decisions on your life will also affect your career, so it might be wise to strategise in this area, too. Though many have ridiculed the notion of having a five or ten year ‘plan’, having some sense of your intentions sketched out can help you make career decisions sensibly. Is settling down and buying your first house a priority, or would you like to further your education? Would you like to live abroad, to broaden your cultural outlook? Do you want to focus on helping people or the environment, rather than simply chase a paycheck? Strategising holistically is hugely prudent here.

STAY CURRENT

Employers’ needs and preferences change, and so do the demands of the job market. This is currently more true than ever, both due to the soaring prevalence and influence of social media, and the recent coronavirus crisis. Knowing which sets of skills (both hard and soft) are in currently most in demand (and having the foresight to predict the needs of a changing job market) will help you raise your standards to the market expectations, which will land you a better job faster.

GET ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNERS AND MENTORS

It may be a long and hard journey, especially when walking alone. Seek solace and advice from university friends who are also in the transition period and will be inevitably going through the same things. Even more importantly, seek mentors on your career path. Talk to them, get advice, and learn how they transitioned into a fully fledged career. Mentors may also help you land job opportunities or advise you on positioning yourself in the job market.

The transition period is full of uncertainties and fears, but it’s also a time to think and plan the career life you have always wanted. Doing this with practicality and prudence at the forefront of your thinking may well set you up for life. Good luck!

5 IDEAL WAYS TO EAT MORE RESPONSIBLY IN 2021

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO EAT MORE RESPONSIBLY IN 2021

The annual ascetic athletics have begun. We hope January will successfully unpickle the country’s collective liver, lower our blood pressure and cholesterol, and generally have us thinking about our consumption in a new, mindful way. That said, when midnight on the 31st chimes, pass me a bottle of whiskey, a massive steak and don’t mention abstinence again until next year, please. 

Just kidding. Instead of simply ticking a date off and going back to our old ways, this period should be the start of something more thoughtful, consumption wise. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to eat more responsibly in 2021.

CHANGE THAT MEAT FREE RATIO

One day in seven, and a rarely observed one even then. C’mon guys, we can do better than this, surely? Common knowledge dictates that eating meat nearly every day isn’t good for us or the environment. Others will counter; worldwide it supports millions of independent businesses, and the extent of the environmental impact of a high protein diet is still actually up for debate. Not forgetting, too, that meat and dairy are just so bloody delicious.

How about a little compromise then? Because 14.3% off, 85.7% on, isn’t really a fair divvy up, let’s be honest. Instead, why not try to have three or four days a week of a plant-based diet, and three or four including meat, fish and dairy? Something needs to change in our eating habits, and a manageable, mindful, meat-free(ish) approach is the best place to start.

THERE AREN’T PLENTY MORE FISH

It has been reported in recent years that the world could run out of fish by 2048 if we don’t change the way we fish and eat. Something has got to give, and sharpish. It’s time to eat fish more sustainably, and this starts with which species we shop for. Speaking broadly, if we can reduce the demand for Britain’s beloved Big Five of cod, haddock, prawns, salmon and tuna, then overfishing of these particular types can hopefully be reduced. Instead seek out sustainable, relatively bountiful alternatives like hake and arctic char. For an up-to-date, extensive list of what we should be buying, check out the Marine Conservation Society’s Good Fish Guide; an incredibly useful resource.

KEEP IT LOCAL, KEEP IT SEASONAL

Another way to reduce your diet’s impact on the environment is to focus more of your shop on food which is currently bang in season and grown locally. If you have a hankering for mango in January, for instance, then it’s probably going to have travelled a really long way to reach you; that’s air miles racked up and a carbon footprint well and truly trodden.

Instead, go for foods which have taken the least possible distance to your door. They’re going to be fresher, taste better and contain more nutrients, too. So you’ll be helping your health, your palate and your wallet, as well as the environment and your local community, not some huge, commercial operation. There really is no reason not to.

AIM FOR ZERO WASTE

It’s truly shocking just how much perfectly edible food we throw away. With the rise in food banks and child poverty brought about by our farcical, feckless government, this is something we should all feel deeply ashamed of. So, do your best to only buy what you need, and turn any excess into something delicious wherever possible. Make sure your voice is heard in the fight against hunger, too, by petitioning Downing Street and contacting your local M.P to voice your concerns and convictions.

MAKE A STAND ABOUT PACKAGING

We all saw it on Blue Planet 2 last year. We’ve heard scientist’s regular warnings on the radio. We read the environment secretary’s realisation this was a thing in the newspaper. But still, we wonder when this all might sink in; our use of plastic is way out of hand. And while we can’t trust our leaders to do anything significant to arrest this – piss up and brewery spring to mind – and in fact, because of this; it’s up to us, the little guy, to make a big difference. ‘But it’s just a drop in the ocean’, we hear you say. Indeed, but an ocean soon to be empty of existence.

Does every banana need its own plastic sheath? Who actually needs a plastic bag to carry the plastic wrapped sandwich you just bought? Two straws in a takeaway plastic cup? Really? The amount of plastic and packaging is ridiculous and seriously damaging to our environment. Make a stand by only supporting retailers who are trying to eliminate their use, taking a rucksack to the shops instead of paying for a bag, saying no to straws and by boycotting places which, despite all the warnings, still aren’t acting responsibly.

SMARTER, KINDER, SAFER: 9 TRAVEL TRENDS FOR FUTURE TRAVEL

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SMARTER, KINDER, SAFER: 9 TRAVEL TRENDS FOR FUTURE TRAVEL

With few facets of our lives left unchanged by the unparalleled impact of the Coronavirus pandemic, it’s almost certain that travel will forever look and feel different in a post-COVID world.

It’s not all bad news; innovation within the travel industry will accelerate faster than ever to respond to marked shifts in travel expectations and behaviours. Holidaymakers will prioritise a heightened level of travel safety and more sustainable travel offerings, as well as evolve their preferences for where and with whom they travel. Indeed, though things look uncertain right now, 2021 and beyond may well show itself to be a time of opportunity and unique growth. 

All of this will catapult demand for a deeper value from the trips we book in the future. With the help of a recent survey by booking.com, who sought the views of 20’000 travellers across 28 countries on their future travel plans, here are 9 predictions for future travel trends. 

BYE BYE TO 9 TO 5

Working remotely has become the norm during the pandemic, and it’s likely to stay that way for the foreseeable future. A knock-on effect, we think, is that people will look to take longer trips in the future that more effectively combine work and pleasure. 

No longer confined to five days a week in an office and desperate for a change of scene from the new, already staid Working From Home (WFH) existence, we’ll see a significant rise in the ‘Workcation’, with travellers looking to extend their vacation experience in new locales by staying an extra week or two to work remotely – or conversely factoring in a holiday around a stint of remote working. Expect laptops to become even more of a mainstay in luggage than ever before, and an attractive spot on which to run them a must-have when choosing where to stay.

We also anticipate that AirBnb and other accommodation rental platforms begin pushing home/office setups abroad with zeal. As a result, expect the recent years’ trend of digital nomadism to continue to rise exponentially once travel is once again properly permitted.

WANDERMUST

Amidst new waves of travel hiatuses, restrictions and continued uncertainty, our innate human desire to travel has not been dampened. In fact, it’s only been encouraged further, with the overfamiliarity of home’s four walls having Brits chomping at the bit to get away somewhere far flung and foreign.

Because of this, we can expect travel companies to get creative in 2021 with new itineraries and recommendations designed to capture the imaginations of travellers who missed out on trips in 2020 and are looking for somewhere unfamiliar and exciting to explore to make their next trip more meaningful. Until then, check out our tips on satisfying your wanderlust during lockdown.

VALUE

The financial legacy of Coronavirus will inevitably see people demand more bang for their buck from their holidays in the future. Expect to see travellers take a more price conscious approach when it comes to searching and planning a trip, with promotions and savings sought out with enthusiasm.

The value consumers expect will go beyond the cost of plane tickets and hotel room rates. With trust issues and uncertainty likely to endure for some years after the crisis is contained, consumers will likely push travel booking platforms into increasing their transparency about cancellation policies, refund processes and trip insurance options. Refundable accommodation will almost certainly become standard, too. 

As such, the industry will need to come together to respond inventively to offer deeper value, better choice, increased flexibility and transparency as well as more thoughtful experiences for tomorrow’s travellers as they scrutinise their spending in 2021 and beyond.

FAMILIARISTS NOT TOURISTS 

Staycations and short distance excursions have offered great respite to itchy-footed Brits not able to board a plane and fly further afield.

Looking ahead, staying closer to home and becoming ‘familiarists’ rather than tourists will continue to be at the forefront of travel agendas. Expect travel within the UK to see a huge growth next year, as people take their first tentative steps into holiday mode once again.

Travel companies will likely respond by offering more historic and cultural heritage tours to educate and entertain visitors, as well as vying for tourists’ attention. All this will, in turn, fuel a road trip renaissance to explore forgotten local gems, a renewed passion to support local business and communities as they seek to rebuild, and inspire a newfound sense of pride in the history and beauty of Britain. 

SEARCH ESCAPISM

Our appetite to consume travel content, get creative with our travel plans and share our travel dreams with each other will continue to grow exponentially over the coming year. Seeking comfort and distraction during weeks in lockdown, a whopping 95% of travellers (according to the survey we mentioned earlier) spent time online looking for vacation inspiration and escapism.

As restrictions continue to ebb and flow, we can expect destinations and accommodation providers to come up with even more inventive ways to capitalise on travellers’ heightened desire to escape reality and connect them with the experiences that await –  from accommodation companies revamping their social media presence by leveraging content created by influencers who visited pre lockdown, to local tourist boards creating inspiring Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) content to visually showcase the best these places have to offer. Perhaps even tours of potential destinations will be offered via Virtual Reality to entice tourists to unfamiliar climes.

SAFETY CLEANS UP

Unsurprisingly, global travellers are going to demand more visible safety and sanitary practices from airlines, travel companies and accommodation providers. Governments, travel associations and providers will have to work cohesively to set consistent standards to help keep travellers safe and reassure (and encourage) them to start spending on holidays again. 

In the short-term, there will also be a change in transport preference and provisions, with many opting to avoid public transport altogether for fear of contracting coronavirus. This will cause a longer-term shift in how people travel to and around their vacation destinations, with more people choosing to rent or drive their own car. The ‘new normal’ will also see travellers prioritise and adhere to increased health and safety measures, with many becoming ingrained sooner than we think. 

Just as we have become accustomed to travelling without liquids in our carry-on luggage and removing shoes to go through airport security, expect travelling to destinations that have health spot checks on arrival and wearing a mask on board all modes of transport to both become second nature, too. 

IMPACT AWAKENING 

Coronavirus has led to many holidaymakers wanting the travel industry to adopt a more sustainable mindset for the long-term by offering more attractive off-season travel packages and proposing alternative destinations to prevent overcrowding. Because of this heightened awareness of travel’s impact on the environment, expect airlines, tour companies and even hotels to go completely plastic free in the next couple of years.

There are also strong signals for travel operators to be more transparent about how travellers’ money is being used to rebuild a community, paving the way for more regenerative tourism. In short, responsible travel will be one of the key drivers in tourist spending patterns in future years. 

SIMPLE PLEASURES 

As we learn to live with the consequences of the pandemic in 2021 and beyond, travellers will be keen to embrace a new and stripped-back way of experiencing the world. So much time spent in our own homes with our loved ones has given birth to adjusted travel priorities and a desire to enjoy the great outdoors with more gusto than ever before. Vast expanses, free from crowds and corporate intrusion will reign supreme.

Use of simple, streamlined messaging using terms such as ‘hiking’, ‘clean air’, ‘nature’ and ‘relaxation’ have increased since the start of the pandemic; expect the coming years to see rural, back-to-basics holidays thriving.

Considering the renewed emphasis on privacy, sufficient space and personal control over cleanliness and hygiene, it is not surprising that we will see travellers look for accommodation ‘closer to home’ with 42% preferring to stay in a rented holiday home, villa or apartment rather than in a hotel, contrasting 2019 when 64% of travellers favoured staying in a hotel.

SPONT’TECH’NAITY 

Tech innovation will play a crucial role in rebuilding traveller confidence and we will see the accelerated use of tech to adapt to a new type of traveller. Technology will help us regain the spontaneity, confidence and ease of times past, while at the same time help people travel safely and responsibly. Hyper personalisation of holidays and travel experiences will likely follow. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

The travel industry is set to be a very different beast in the post-COVID climate, with travellers demanding cleanliness, transparency and personalisation like never before. It’s going to be up to the industry to adapt with dexterity, flexibility and speed if it’s going to survive. 

THE BEST PET FASHION FOR 2021

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THE BEST PET FASHION FOR 2021

Ideal for those looking to kit out their furry friends in the latest clobber next year.

The world seems to be in freefall, but the love and joy we have for our pets only seems to get stronger. And in 2021, we only anticipate our animal obsession growing even more fervent. After such a topsy-turvy, turbulent year we can’t wait to spend more time with our pets (well, we’re not allowed to see anyone else, hey?).

If you’re keen to spoil yours rotten and have them seriously looking the part, then read on; here’s the best pet fashion for 2021, IDEAL for those looking to kit out their furry friends in the latest clobber next year.

BEST FASHION CLOTHING FOR DOGS

Whether you have a Bulldog or Chihuahua, make 2021 the year that you seek solace in your super stylish dog. For the finest dog clothing to make your dog stand out, here’s a few ideas:

TOP PAW GREY FLOWER PET SWEATER

Cold weather and pets simply don’t mix, and a good sweater can help keep chill off. This sweater does more than just keep the dog warm; it also keeps it adorable! The fibre is made of 97% acrylic at the face and 94% acrylic at the back to stay warm in the winter months.

It’s also easy to slip on and off without an impromptu wrestling match. The decorative flowers have no functional benefit, but they do look awesome!

Pros

The sweater is made of acrylic.

The funky floral finish

Cons

There is a large size difference between small and medium.

There is just one choice of colour; grey.

LIANZIMAU PET BASEBALL SWEATER

Have you been searching for a sweater to dress your dog for a baseball match? Hey, aren’t we all? Look no further because the Lianzimau Baseball sweater has got you covered. 

Coming in a modern, comfortable style, it won’t be a squeeze to dress your pup, but the swag levels will be turned up to 11. It also has a sturdy button to make removing the sweater easy.

Pros

The sweater is made of polar fleece on the outside and taffeta on the inside.

Customers get a guarantee for defective items.

A unique design to keep turns your dog into a baseball fan.

It relatively inexpensive

Cons

The material is not stretchable, so one has to get a slightly bigger size for a comfortable fit.

CHOCHOCHO WOOF DOG HOODIE PET CLOTHES STYLISH STREETWEAR

Ignore the tongue twister of a name. If your dog (and you) love a street style, then ChoChoCho Woof street clothing will give your pup that funky look. The outfit is designed to fit all sizes of dog, from Irish Wolfhound to Maltese.

Made from natural, high-quality cotton material on the outside and soft velvet on the inside, the comfort and warmth of your furry friend is assured. What’s more, the material used is skin-friendly, elastic, soft, and breathable, meaning it won’t lead to injury or allergies. For breathability, the back section is designed to include ventilation holes.

Pros

The dog will enjoy being in a comfortable, breathable, and stretchable material.

Give your dog a casual look for outdoor activities.

It comes in 3 colours and multiple sizes for all dogs and even cats.

Cons

Relatively expensive

CHOCHOCHO DOG RAINCOAT

The ChoChoCho raincoat is a great accessory for outdoor weather when things turn a little inclement. The jacket will fit any cat or dog and protect them from the harmful weather elements, and not just rain either; it’s well suited to protect your pet from UV rays, too.

The raincoat is light so that in case your pet is caught out in the rain, they’ll keep dry and be able to maintain their body temperature. What’s more, this raincoat is so soft and lightweight that your pet won’t notice it’s on. Aside from being waterproof, the Chochocho raincoat is also windproof. Result!

Pros

It waterproof, windproof, and offers sun protection.

It is light

The bright yellow colour makes your dog easy spot from a distance. 

Cons

A little on the costly side.

BEST FASHION CLOTHING FOR CATS

Though the majority of dog fashion is also appropriate for cats, since your feline friend is a little more nimble and with its own unique style, why not try these two sweaters which are IDEAL for cats:

WIZ BBQT KNITTED BRAID PLAIT TURTLENECK SWEATER

This groovy turtleneck will suddenly transform any cute cat into a fashionista. If you love to look after your pet whilst having them looking as fly as possible, then this one’s for you. The sweater comes in a range of cool shades and is beautifully designed, making it a versatile piece appropriate for both cats and dogs.

Pros

Both cats and dogs can wear it

Made of acrylic 

Brightly coloured to make your cat stand out from the crowd.

The material is stretchable

Cons

It is costly

BOLBOVE BRO’BEAR CABLE KNIT TURTLENECK SWEATER 

Though the Bolbove turtleneck sweater is meant for cats, it can be used for puppies, too. The sweater’s acrylic provides both warmth and comfort in the cold season. This one comes in multiple sizes though most of them are designed for cats who are on the smaller side.

Pros

It is inexpensive

Made of acrylic 

Brightly coloured to make 

Cons

Available in just one colour 

THE BOTTOM LINE

When choosing the best pet clothing company you can find, do make sure you check the materials used, the breathability and ventilation of the items, and, of course, whether you can find a matching outfit for yourself! Good luck.

7 RESOLUTIONS TO KICK START YOUR NEW YEAR ON THE FRONT FOOT

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7 RESOLUTIONS TO KICK START YOUR NEW YEAR ON THE FRONT FOOT

Ideal for those looking to enjoy new perspectives after a rough 2020.

A new year brings a cathartic, cleansing appeal for many. Every beginning of a year is a chance for a new slate on which you can plan to start over again. 

And never has there been more need for a fresh start and a carefully cultivated, more optimistic outlook than now. With that in mind, here are 7 resolutions to kick start your new year on the front foot, IDEAL for those looking to enjoy new perspectives after a rough 2020.

LET GO OF THE LAST ONE

We don’t want to keep repeating it, for fear it’ll reappear with a vengeance, but 2020 has been rough. Whether you choose to carry that negative energy into the new year, however, is up to you. By channelling the arbitrary excuse of a new digit on the calendar as a catalyst for change, you can approach 2021 with a fresh, positive perspective. In short, let go of last year.

SMALL, INCREMENTAL CHANGES

‘Out with the old and in with the new’. If only it were that simple.

But sweeping, wholesale changes to your life, love and career are hard to imagine and even harder to realise. Instead, set realistic goals with dates and deadlines, as enacting small, incremental change is much easier than rewriting your whole life script in one crazed and frantic session. This will form the basis for creating a plan that sets out your life goals for the New Year. 

Accordingly, divide your new year plans into months and weeks and reflect on the ideas every month. This is a way of measuring how far you have reached, and the progress made can be motivating. Taking an analytical approach to your life may feel daunting, but it can reap rich rewards.

PRACTICE SELF LOVE

No, not like that. But rather, do your best to dial down the volume on that self-critical voice in your head. In recognising and acknowledging your own inner strengths, achievements and attributes, you’ll learn to have a more positive approach outwardly, too. 

One way of doing this is by practicing gratitude. Many happy, content people swear by the keeping of a gratitude diary, in which they list 3 things they’re grateful for each day. Doing so has been said to rewire your brain to be more optimistic; and we could all do with a bit of that next year, right?

DISCONNECT, BUT CONNECT 

We’re talking about that relationship with our devices and the internet, which only seems to have gotten more obsessive and time consuming during periods of lockdown and self isolation.

Next year, make it your personal mission to enrich your social cycle and make more meaningful connections, rather than endless memes exchanged on WhatsApp but nothing resembling an attempt at true, valuable conversation.

Spend time with your friends and family to build on your relationships. Sometimes you might feel withdrawn and antisocial, especially when stuck in a rut. This is the time to give yourself some fresh air by exploring the possibility of change in your inner circle.

FORGIVE & FORGET

As the old Chinese proverb goes; ‘‘to be wronged is nothing unless you continue to remember it’’.

Confucius had it right; you have to learn to forgive and let go. Do not hold grudges or transfer your dissent for someone into the new year because it will bring negative energy into your world unecessarily. Forgiveness, on the other hand, only leads to more positivity. Give it a try.

GET MINDFUL, GET SPIRITUAL

A wide ranging UK study into the health impact of the coronavirus pandemic released in September and covered in the Guardian found that ‘’in the early stages of lockdown 57% of those who took part reported symptoms of anxiety, with 64% recording common signs of depression’’.

A regular practice of mindful meditation can help you gain the perspective you need moving forward. Indeed, only ten minutes a day can do wonders for realigning your perspective. If you’re new to the wonderful world of ‘taking a moment’, there are plenty of apps offering guided meditations and mindfulness exercises for a monthly fee. If meditation doesn’t work for you, do still make the time just to sit still for a few minutes each day, enabling space for reflection on what has been, for everyone, a really confusing time.

CLEAR OUT

If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that all our ‘stuff’ and surplus possessions truly don’t bring us joy. So many have invested so much – both financially and mentally – in accumulating gadgets, gizmos, objects and items that we’ve forgotten to invest in our wellbeing. 

A cluttered physical environment can distract you from what’s really important. Having a clearout of your domestic space can bring a clarity of vision which 2021 deserves. Indeed, house clearance is one method you can use to outsource your reboot and start afresh.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Kick-starting a new year right comes down to making necessary changes that brighten your life, streamlining your goals and your physical space, equally. Change can boost your mind and mood, and it is necessary if you want a new and positive beginning. So, if you want to make your 2021 better than 2020, start making those adjustments now.

HOW TO TELL IF YOUR DIGITAL MARKETING CAMPAIGN IS WORKING: THE IDEAL GUIDE

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HOW TO TELL IF YOUR DIGITAL MARKETING CAMPAIGN IS WORKING: THE IDEAL GUIDE

When you first started up your business, you were probably told about the importance of digital marketing and why you should focus on it as a priority to get your business noticed. When done right, such a campaign sheds light on where your new customers spend time and money, and helps you learn how to solidify your positions as a reputable brand.

Unfortunately, most people don’t learn much about the follow-up to this; keeping track of your marketing efforts, which is equally important to your company’s success. You can spend a lot of money on PPC campaigns and social media influencer marketing, but how do you actually keep track of your marketing efforts? How do you know if they’re working? Can you compare them to different methods to see what’s more effective?

With those questions firmly in mind, here’s our IDEAL guide on how to tell if your digital marketing campaign is working.

MAKING USE OF DATA AND ANALYTICS

First, one of the most important things to learn is how to make use of data and analytics. You can learn more about PPC reporting tools to see how effective your campaigns are and how you can track the information with the tools you have available. The idea behind this is to see exactly how well your campaigns are performing with detailed statistics. By looking at these numbers, you’ll be able to discover different areas to improve, you’ll find areas which you’re lacking in, and you’ll see where you get the most engagement.

Data and analytics are extremely important when it comes to deciding future marketing campaigns as well. They can represent many different things such as your failures and successes in different areas, which is why it’s vital that you start keeping track of this information. If you fail to do this, you’ll find that it becomes almost impossible to see how well your marketing campaigns are performing.

LOOKING AT YOUR ENGAGEMENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Another fairly simple way to see how well you’re performing is to look at your engagement on social media. While this doesn’t necessarily represent your market performance, it can help you understand how well you’re doing in terms of your online presence. A lot of smaller companies find it difficult to compete with larger businesses in pure marketing performance because their budget is a lot smaller. As such, it’s hard to stand out on regular channels such as PPC performance.

Instead of trying to combat these goliath corporations, smaller businesses tend to find more success when it comes to social media since everyone is on an equal playing field. A small business or even a single individual can build a huge presence that is on par with or even greater than larger corporations. It takes a lot of work and you need to be active on social media, but it’s well worth the benefits.

TRACKING KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

You should also make use of marketing key performance indicators to track your progress towards different goals. It’s a great idea to make use of digital services to improve your business and KPIs are an essential area to look at. There are a few of marketing KPIs that you need to be concerned about:

  • Sales revenue – How much revenue has your marketing campaign generated? This is one of the more important and obvious KPIs to keep track of.
  • Inbound marketing ROI – Seeing your investment in inbound marketing is important to assess your monthly and annual performance and budget spend.
  • Customer lifetime value – Keeping customers for as long as possible can help extend the value of other KPIs. Make sure you inform existing customers about new products and give them loyalty benefits to improve this.
  • Organic traffic – Traffic from organic searches can greatly improve your lead conversion rates. This is highly focused on search engine optimization and building more traffic to your website.
  • Landing page conversion rates – Landing pages are important when it comes to generating leads. Make sure your monitor conversion rates from landing pages to see how well they’re performing.
  • Social media traffic – Traffic from social media platforms can help improve your lead conversion rates, and it also highlights how powerful your social strategies can be.
  • Mobile traffic, leads and conversions – Lastly, don’t forget that optimizing for mobile can help improve your marketing efforts. With over half the users on the web using mobile devices, this makes perfect sense to focus on.

There are many more KPIs to keep track of to help track your business growth, but this is a great place to start for smaller businesses.

5 FOODS TO PACK TO GET YOU THROUGH THAT OUTDOOR EXCURSION

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5 FOODS TO PACK TO GET YOU THROUGH THAT OUTDOOR EXCURSION

Ideal for an activity led staycation. 

If there’s one thing that’s for sure, next year we’re set to see a revival of the Great British Holiday as staycations soar next year (need we say why?). And for the sake of our planet, that’s a very good thing. Enjoying a staycation instead of a far-flung vacay helps to reduce your own impact on the environment and set a good example to others, too 

Luckily for us, our island of isolation is alive with plenty of things to do, especially outdoor activities. From coasteering along Giant’s Causeway and rock climbing in Snowdonia to hiking in the Yorkshire Dales, there’s plenty to do if you’re the outdoorsy type – you could even travel the road from Land’s End and John O’Groats if your ambition stretches further. 

However, such an excursion, and indeed any outdoor adventure, needs supplies. Otherwise, you might end up regretting leaving that house you’ve become so accustomed to over the last year. To keep you nourished and energised, here are 5 foods to pack to get you through that outdoor excursion, IDEAL for an activity led staycation.

ENERGY-GIVING FOODS

Before you set out on your outdoor adventure, you need to enjoy a meal that gives you energy. 

Your body requires more energy during outdoor activities due to increased metabolic rates and that metabolism can’t take place without energy.

Just as the name implies, energy-giving foods – “carbohydrates”, or ‘carbs’ to those who appreciate brevity – supply the energy that the body requires to function without fatigue or general weakness.  

You want to select the best (as in, the healthiest) vehicles for those carbs, which include whole grains and foods made from whole wheat flour. Brown rice, quinoa, bread, and tortilla are good examples and even better energy givers.

Another good snack here is oatmeal, which helps you avoid calories and cholesterol in that it digests slowly. As such, you will feel full for longer and be able to avoid eating too frequently during the excursion, which may slow and weigh you down.

PACKABLE  SNACKS 

Snacks to see you through your journey are the way forward. Think healthy and lightweight – as you don’t want them to weigh you down. 

The enduringly popular Kendal Mint Cake has been popular among climbers, mountaineers, cyclists and runners alike. High in glucose, the snack is digested quickly when eaten, which means it’s a quick source of energy. 

Trail mix is another popular choice. Typically dried fruits, nuts, sometimes chocolate and granola, this snackable and nourishing mix is full of energy-giving goodness. Nuts, seeds, nut-based bars or nut butter packs are another easy to carry snack. 

Nuts not only taste great but they also contribute to good overall health when enjoyed in moderation. These foods contain healthy fats, also known as monounsaturated fats. According to experts, these fats will promote good health by lowering cholesterol levels thereby reducing the risk for stroke, heart disease, and other related conditions. 

HYDRATING FOODS & WATER

Working up a sweat is, of course, desirable when you’re out on a hike or climb, and can be incredibly satisfying. That said, sweating is one of the key factors that contribute to dehydration, which can see heightened severity at higher altitudes. 

As such, you should carry foods that will help replenish the levels of water in your body as you experience dehydration. To that effect, foods like watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, or grapefruits, which also contain sugar, are great. 

Of course, carrying water is the best way to stave off dehydration. However, forget about sweet, processed beverages like soda or store-bought juice as these will have the opposite effect, and are actually dehydration.

If you do have to carry a sweet drink, let it be a fresh fruit juice that you made yourself from fruits with high water content and that contains no preservatives or added sugars. Rather than lugging a whole watermelon up a mountain, a Watermelon agua fresca juice – which according to the good guys at Sun Basket contains a whopping 8 cups of watermelon, blended – brings all the same benefits but takes up a lot less space.

In case, you’ve never heard about this company before, it’s similar to Hello Fresh or Home Chef; here’s a nice comparison post that shows how Sun Basket compares with Hello Fresh.

DRIED FRUITS & VEG

Though we’ve just been extolling the virtues of fruit with a high water content, dried or freeze-dried fruits and veggies also do a job for those on an outdoor excursion, packed with carbohydrates and offering a quick energy fix.

Fruits and vegetables are the best source of vitamins, minerals, and trace elements that we miss out on or, at least, get in minimal quantities from other food sources. For example, they are high in dietary fibre, a wide range of vitamins (including vitamins A, C, and E), folic acid, and potassium, in comparison to other food sources. The dried varieties are compact and easy to carry, and contain loads of the nutrients needed to push your hike forward. 

FOOD WHICH DOESN’T CAUSE TRASH

If you love the great British outdoors, then it’s important that you leave no trace on your trek. As such, you should prioritise snacks which don’t use lots of unnecessary packaging. Should you need to wrap items, use reusable wrapping, such as Bees Wax paper, for responsible, sustainable transporting of your snacks.

WHAT IS A SMART LIGHT BULB & WHY SHOULD I BE USING THEM? THE IDEAL GUIDE

Editorial Team
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WHAT IS A SMART LIGHT BULB & WHY SHOULD I BE USING THEM? THE IDEAL GUIDE

The automating of the home is one of the biggest technological developments of the past few years and progress only looks set to grow further as that technology advances and becomes more affordable. Often referred to as ‘smart’ homes, the future looks bright for those who love to control the domestic space via their voice, their phones or perhaps even an old-school clicking of the fingers. 

And it seems like that future is going to be illuminated further still by advancements in smart light bulb technology. If you’re wondering what a smart light bulb is and why you should be using them, then here’s our IDEAL guide.

SO, WHAT EXACTLY IS A SMART LIGHT BULB?

For those who still haven’t had their lightbulb moment regarding the title, a smart light bulb is a product that you can fit into any conventional light fitting to turn it into a smart light. If you have a wall-mounted light fitting that takes a screw-thread or a bayonet light bulb, for example, then you can turn it into a smart lighting product simply by replacing the current bulb for a smart alternative. The same goes for ceiling-mounted light fittings and free-standing ones, such as standard lamps.

This smart technology will work throughout your home to provide you with features which simply can’t be realised via conventional lighting products. Indeed, you can even use smart light bulbs outside as they are fitted into fittings with the necessary ingress protection (IP rating) to protect them from dust and water. Oh, the possibilities!

Read: 6 domestic swaps to make your home greener today

THE BENEFITS OF SMART LIGHT BULBS

So, why should you be using smart light bulbs?

Firstly, the environment; bulbs make use of LED technologies to produce their light. This makes them much more energy-efficient than conventional light bulbs which use filaments. Filament bulbs actually make more heat than they do light so switching to LEDs makes sense if you want to lower your carbon footprint as well as your electricity charges. 

Of course, with smart LED light bulbs, you can go even further in reducing energy consumption because you can set your lights to only come on when they are needed and to turn themselves off automatically when they are not. Sounds simple, huh? Whether this is done with artificial intelligence that predicts when you will need your lights or via a Wi-Fi-enabled motion sensor is up to you; the benefit here is that no unnecessary energy is wasted in the home.

Another big plus point about LED technology is that it can be used in a variety of ways in the smart home setting. Many smart light bulbs can be dimmed to optimise their output for different conditions, perhaps becoming gradually brighter as the sun goes down, for example, or even setting the tone as an evening gets more romantic, if that’s your thing. 

The versatility doesn’t stop there. You could opt for a control system that allows you to alter the colour temperature of the light fitting to suit different moods, perhaps as an accent light for a dinner party or as a task light when you are working. Going further still, some smart light bulbs will change colour completely, thereby allowing you to come up with lighting effects that switch between reds, blues and greens. Should you be keen on illuminating your house in rainbow hues, then this is for you.

REMOTE CONTROLS

Smart light bulbs can be operated remotely, from a distance. Perhaps you want to turn your hall’s light on from your living room or switch your bathroom light off from your kitchen? With a smart light bulb that communicates wirelessly, this is eminently possible. 

Even better, you can operate your lights from outside so long as you have the related app downloaded on your phone. This is ideal if you want to make it look like somebody is home for security reasons or simply because you want your home to feel inviting a few moments before you return from a long day out.

WHY CHOOSE SMART LIGHT BULBS?

Given their wide range of uses and functions, the possibilities of smart light bulbs may only just be becoming apparent. But that doesn’t mean that smart light bulbs are appropriate for everyone.

For example, if your kitchen is lit with a dozen or so ceiling-mounted downlighters, then swapping out all of the bulbs for smart ones would be a more expensive approach than fitting a smart switch instead. If you want to control each fitting independently from one another, then smart light bulbs might still make sense. However, if you simply want to be able to turn them all on and off or to dim them simultaneously, then a smart light switch would probably be the more cost-effective solution since you will only need one or two at most. 

The same also goes for lights which do not have conventional, standardised bulbs. Think of under-cabinet LED lighting strips, for example. There are smart alternatives for these sorts of products already, such as Sonoff’s dimmable and weatherproof strips. That said, smart light bulbs are perfectly suited for one-off light fittings in points around the home where you want to achieve a much greater degree of control.

THE BOTTOM LINE

We hope you leave us enlightened about smart light bulbs. Should you be keen to consider more intelligent domestic design, check out this article on why you should switch to a smart thermostat.

LOCKDOWN CLEANING CHECKLIST: 10 PLACES NEEDING SPECIAL ATTENTION AT HOME

Editorial Team
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LOCKDOWN CLEANING CHECKLIST: 10 PLACES NEEDING SPECIAL ATTENTION AT HOME

With Lockdown 3.0 looming, and people desperate for that sense of ‘new year, new me’, it’s no surprise that people are keen and concerned in equal measure to keep their homes tidy and clean as 2020 comes to a close.

We’re all going to be spending a lot more time at home as 2021 begins, and with a sparkling home comes the feeling of a fresh start. Today, we’ve teamed up with the experts at Cleaning Express, who offer a cleaning service in London, to bring you this lockdown cleaning checklist; here are 10 places needing special attention at home.

WASHING MACHINES

You may be surprised to learn that washing machines can actually be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Somewhat counterintuitive, we realise, but surprisingly, they’re not actually perfect at washing away germs.

To avoid this, we suggest running your washing machine with a specific washing machine cleaner, or, alternatively, set your washing machine on cleaning mode with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar at a 4:1 ratio inside the drum. 

It’s also a good idea to leave your washing machine door open for a little while after each use to let it ‘breathe’.

TOUCH POINTS

When we talk of touch points, we refer to things such as door knobs and handles, which receive a huge amount of hand traffic during the day. From doors separating rooms to handles on kitchen cabinets and even your letterbox, it’s important you ensure that all are wiped over regularly as these can be places in which viruses can linger and subsequently spread.

FLOORS

If you have hardwood floors, we suggest scrubbing them with a tough brush to really lift that unseen dirt and grime. If you have carpets, you may want to try a carpet cleaning powder that works with any domestic vacuum cleaner.

Alternatively, to get rid of dirt, grime and smells from your carpets by sprinkling them with bicarbonate of soda (is there anything it can’t do?!) around 20 minutes before hoovering. If you like, you can also spray the carpet with white vinegar for added effect. While cleaning, if you discover any stains on those carpets, then soak a flannel in water for a few minutes and place it on the mark. Next, run over the flannel with a hot iron. You’ll soon find that stain will break up and be easier to clean afterwards. 

SURFACES

From the kitchen to the bathroom and beyond, ensure all surfaces are cleaned thoroughly once a day using an antibacterial surface cleaner. This should extend to non-permanent ‘surfaces’ such as chopping boards, which see a lot of action.

LIGHTS

As well as ensuring lights are cleaned and free of dust, you may also want to go over light switches. These are yet another touch point that must not be missed. Again, anti-bacterial spray is ideal here.

SOFT FURNISHINGS

You’ll find your soft furnishings will have had a lot of extra use over the Christmas period, with Christmas Dinner induced food comas causing crumbs and chaos to fall on the sofa. Ensure these are washed regularly, in your newly fresh smelling washing machine. Wash cushion covers and pillowcases, too, and if you can, tumble dry afterwards.

HALLWAYS

Hallways can very quickly build up dirt, especially during lockdown thanks to more frequent use with households remaining indoors more. Focus on skirting boards and front door mats, especially, which are often neglected but particularly deserving of your attention. 

FRONT DOORS

Front doors can become a harbinger of germs, and represent a rather fragile barrier between your home and the big, bad outside world beyond. Be sure to clean your door handles, as well as the locks and door chains, with anti-bacterial cleaner.

OVENS

As your oven will no doubt be getting extra use over the Christmas period, it’s a good idea to give it a thorough clean both inside and out; no one wants smoke filling the room from accumulated grease on Christmas Day, after all.

Wipe it down regularly on the outside and use a combination of baking soda and vinegar for an effective and affordable way to tackle any burnt on food inside. Other kitchen appliances used for cooking, such as microwaves and air fryers, need a similar level of attention.

CLOTHING

You do not need to wash your clothes on boiling hot washes. However, washing at 60 degrees with a quality detergent will be effective enough to ensure they’re clean and free of germs. 

If you’d like to book in professional cleaning for your home during or after lockdown, please don’t hesitate to contact Cleaning Express today on 0203 633 0390. The team are more than happy to provide you with a thorough and efficient cleaning service in London to not only ensure you have a clean and safe home but also put your mind at rest during these unsettling times.

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