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5 IDEAL THINGS WE’RE INTO THIS WEEK 17.01.2020

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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5 IDEAL THINGS WE’RE INTO THIS WEEK 17.01.2020

Here at IDEAL we realise that there’s more to this crazy dance than the accumulation of ‘stuff’. A life of accruing possessions will only accrue dust. Oiling the Capitalist wheels with your wallet won’t bring clarity, of that there’s no doubt….

But who can deny the positivity that a bit of pampering brings? There’s nothing wrong with taking a look inwards from time to time, letting go and just spoiling yourself. But with the collective consumerism out of control and bringing the climate to its knees, it’s high time our purchases prioritised sustainability. So, we’re sharing a few things bringing us a little peace of mind right now which won’t harm the planet; our own spot of retail therapy, if you will, with these 5 IDEAL things we’re into this week. Go on. You deserve this.

BEE GREEN WRAPS 

‘Single-use’ may have been the Collins Dictionary’s ‘Word of 2018’, but that hasn’t stopped people using the phrase, and the item, more than ever before. One of the worst culprits is cling film; more than 1.2 billion metres (or 745,000 miles) of the stuff is used by households across the UK each year – enough to go around the world 30 times! 

Fortunately, there are now many great alternatives to single-use plastic out there, so there’s no excuse to continue buying zip-lock bags, cling film, and plastic bags. What’s more, being plastic-free can be stylish, practical and good for the planet. That’s where Bee Green Wraps come in; a clever, plastic-free alternative to cling-film. 

Reusable, organic and 100% natural, each wrap is made from beeswax, jojoba oil and cotton. The wraps are produced on a small-holding near Sydney from organic Australian beeswax, then imported by boat to keep their carbon footprint to a minimum. Not only practical for reducing cling film and foil consumption, Bee Green Wraps have stylish limited edition prints, too. 

Unlike other brands, Bee Green Wraps use dammar oil rather than pine resin, making them more durable and avoiding the wax ‘bobbling’ found on other beeswax wraps after washing. Simple and easy to use, if properly cared for each wrap should last around a year – and when they run out of life, simply bury them in your garden to compost! What’s not to love?

Available at beegreenwraps.co.uk from£4.99 to £25.49.

ECO WARRIOR BY THE LITTLE SOAP COMPANY

Plastic-free, vegan, sustainable, biodegradable and recyclable; ECO WARRIOR by the Little Soap Company (£4/100g) is changing the way we cleanse forever, with a collection of six thoughtful, high impact, job-specific bar soaps, each with its own distinct use and bespoke essential oil blend (no synthetic fragrances here, thank you very much).

ECO-WARRIOR is helping to eliminate untold single use plastic bottles, tubs and tubes from sinks, bathrooms and wash bags across the country. We’re fans of their exfoliating bar – made with citrus essential oils and oatmeal (a superfood for skin and a natural exfoliant) to help reduce excess oil and soothe skin irritation and itching. 

For those with skin prone to outbreaks, their sensitive facial bar is made from a blend of chamomile and calendula essential oils. This ultra-nourishing facial bar is gentle enough to use even on really sensitive skin; result! Oh, and lets not forget their shampoo bar. Containing orange and ginger essential oils and pink clay, this solid bar cleanses, conditions and moisturises the hair whilst also negating the need to plastic. Why take two bottles into the shower when one bar will do?


Available at www.littlesoapcompany.co.uk for £4.00

STOJO BROOKLYN’S POCKET & BIGGIE CUPS

No more judgmental eyes from the local barista or other coffee shop patrons, Stojo allows you to expand and collapse that takeaway cup of yours into a leak-proof disc, perfect to pop in your pocket or bag and take on-the-go. What’s more, Stojo features a sleeve to protect your fingers from the heat of the hot brew, but still gives you that nice warm feeling to wrap your hands round in the winter; perfect. Biggie has the same features as the Pocket Cup, but gives you 33% more room for your drink, plus comes with a reusable straw, perfect for your iced drinks and smoothies (you can borrow it for your post-work drinks, too!). 

With an RRP of £11.99 for the Pocket Cup and £14.99 for the Biggie, after a few weeks of taking your homebrewed morning coffee to work with you, your Stojo will have paid for itself and you’ll have helped save our planet from those wasteful single-serve cups in the process. Each Stojo is designed for thousands of uses, plus is free of BPA’s, phthalates, leads or glues, and it’s top-rack dishwasher safe.  

Available from John Lewis, Oliver Bonas and Selfridges, or online at www.auteurlimited.co.uk

BAMBOO TOOTHBRUSH FROM THE HUMBLE FOUNDATION 

Dental professionals advise you to replace your toothbrush every three months, but christ is that a lot of plastic going in the bin every quarter of a year. Indeed, it’s estimated that 3.6 billion plastic toothbrushes are used worldwide every year and the average person uses 300 in their lifetime. 

Enter the world’s top selling bamboo toothbrush. Made from 100% biodegradable bamboo and sustainable bamboo –  and also vegan friendly – the Humble Brush is the most sustainable way to keep those teeth clean.

What’s more, with every Humble Brush purchased, a proportion goes to funding the Humble Smile Foundation, a cause dedicated to preventing oral disease in areas that need it most around the world. Their humble vision is to prevent suffering caused by oral disease, not only achieved by providing the toothbrushes and toothpaste that we all take for granted but also by providing education and urgent care to vulnerable children around the world. Do your bit to give back by buying an eco-friendly and socially responsible toothbrush today.

Available from Boots, Co-Op, Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, Waitorise, Co-op and other retailers. 

‘HOW TO GIVE UP PLASTIC’ BY WILL McCALLUM 

Not content with your purchasing power? Want to get educated too? Then ‘How To Give Up Plastic: Simple Steps to Living Consciously on our Blue Planet’ is well worth a read.  Written by Will McCallum, Head of Oceans Greenpeace, this British book is at the forefront of the anti-plastic movement and offers tips on all those tiny, daily changes you can make to your routine which make a huge difference to your environmental impact. This is one which, once you’ve read, you should definitely pass along to a friend.

Available from www.penguin.co.uk for £6.99

 

While you’re here, do check out our tips on 5 IDEAL ways to reduce your plastic use.

 

5 IDEAL WAYS TO EVOKE A TRADITIONAL KITCHEN DESIGN IN 2020

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO EVOKE A TRADITIONAL KITCHEN DESIGN IN 2020

With the world seemingly collapsing in on us, chaos reigning supreme, and interconnectivity only making matters worse, sometimes you have to ask yourself if modernity really has made things better. Do you really need your smart home hub to roll up her sleeves and bake you a cake? ‘Alexa, extinguish the fire in my oven’, indeed.

Yep, often older is better, and nowhere is this truer than the kitchen, where traditional recipes respected and spaces kept clean and simple so often produce the best food, and even better conversation. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to evoke a traditional kitchen design in 2020.

A NATURAL SOLID OAK DINING TABLE 

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and food its lifeblood, but what role does the kitchen table play? Stretching the metaphor a little, it’s the most vital part of all, the left atrium and ventricle, working to pump the good stuff around the body. 

As such, you’ll want to take great care of that table, and treat it with pride and respect; it’s going to see a whole lot of action down the years after all. For a dining table with real character and evocative of that ‘traditional’ vibe oh so succinctly, you’ll want one fashioned from natural solid oak; sturdy, satisfying to touch, and worthy of being the focal point of the entire home.

ADD AN AGA

We say ‘add’ as if this is some frivolous purchase, but really, an aga is a massive investment, make no mistake. You’ll be looking at an initial outlay of at least £5000, not to mention the real estate they demand within the kitchen space. And if precision is your thing, then this isn’t for you; there’s no temperature controls, rather spaces designated rather obliquely for ‘boiling’ or ‘simmering’ on top, and ‘roasting’ and ‘slow cooking’. 

But you’re not thinking about how they cook food, right? It’s all about the aesthetics here, and damn do they look attractive. If it’s ‘traditional’ you’re looking to evoke, and that sense of homeliness and domesticity which seems to come bundled up with the term, then the introduction of an aga is a surefire way to get there. 

That’s not to say they don’t have benefits in practical terms. The aga’s cast iron frame means it conducts heat brilliantly; it’s always on, warm and ready to go. Temperatures inside remain steady and consistent, which leads to reliable cooking. And the famous oven has benefits beyond the realm of food, too; that warmth does a fine job of heating the kitchen, and with the right aga accessories you can even dry clothes above the hot plates.

CHESS BOARD FLOOR TILES

Perhaps it’s the sound of heels hitting off the ceramics, or the cool feel under foot, but if it’s traditional kitchen flooring you’re after, it has to be chessboard tiles. The black and white checkered pattern manages to be expressive of a bygone era – a simpler time – whilst not looking dated. In the right hands, and when pared thoughtfully with strikingly coloured appliances, the look can even be chic and contemporary.

HANG COPPER POTS

Nothing screams tradition, both in the kitchen’s visual appeal, and in the cooking, like carefully deployed hanging copper pots. The warm, autumnal tones fit so succinctly with the natural oak and aga aesthetic we’ve already mentioned, and when on display there’s an implicit suggestion that they’re ready for action and often used.

And used they should be; copper pots are the finest heat conductors out there for stove top cooking, meaning cooking is consistent. It’s nimble, too, and great for delicate work as they’re ideal for heating and cooling super fast. Hang these in your kitchen, and expectations about that dinner you’re preparing will be sky high.

HANG A SHEILA MAID 

Yep, we know that Sheila Maid goes out with her mate stella. But if you’re to bring her home, and into the kitchen space, your traditional kitchen look is complete. Remarketed as the ‘eco way to dry each day’, this traditional clothes airer, activated via pulley, might end up smelling of your breakfast’s smoked bacon, but really, we’re just here for channeling those old school aesthetics, right? And Sheila does that job just perfectly.

Now you’ve got the look down, let’s think about practicality. If you want to optimise your workflow and make cooking a great meal as effortless as possible, then feast your eyes on these; our tips on how to improve the functionality of your kitchen.

5 STYLISH WALLPAPERS IDEAL FOR GIVING YOUR HOME A FRESH NEW LOOK  

Editorial Team
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5 STYLISH WALLPAPERS IDEAL FOR GIVING YOUR HOME A FRESH NEW LOOK  

With the new year now in full swing, we think it’s safe to say that many of us are feeling the urge for an overhaul. For a fresh start. For rejuvenation and rebirth. And now Dry January has got our liver’s unpickled, our brains full of clarity, and resolutions getting some semblance of abs visible again, we’re turning our attention to the domestic space. 

The good news is that achieving that fresh, clean feel synonymous with new beginnings needn’t be expensive. The quickest route to success? We think it’s there, written on the walls. With that rather cryptic segway dispensed, here are 5 stylish wallpapers IDEAL for giving your home a fresh new look.

MARBLE

At first, the thought of marble wallpaper spins our whole spatial awareness on its head. Is that our bathtub we see on the ceiling? But the beauty of marble wallpaper is its ability to create a calming, spa-like vibe in bathrooms. And if you’ve got those Caesar fantasies (what, you too?) going on, such walls make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time to the days of the Roman Empire and you’re spending the afternoon at your local bathhouse. Now that’s escapism.

But it’s not only confined to the closed door of the bathroom. When adorning kitchen walls, marble creates a crisp, clean and modern feel. And when installed alongside natural wood shelves and countertops, marble wallpaper exudes that raw, stylistic feel. It’s also easily wipeable; perfect for splashes of bolognese boiled too vigorously. Ideal for bathroom accidents and all. 

TERRAZZO

Terr-who-o? Don’t worry, all will become clear. Completely unique and on-trend, terrazzo is a spin on that marble (it’s actually a composite material made of marble, granite, glass and more) we already mentioned; dashes of marbled gems scattered across white or grey backdrops, to be precise.

Terrazzo style wallpaper comes in a range of colours which you can use to complement the style of your chosen room. If your terrazzo effect wallpaper has a white background, for instance, pair with burnt orange, teal and black speckles, choose a teal velvet sofa, blood orange cushions, a white carpet and black hairpin leg furniture. Amazing. Or, if you love the minimalist Scandi look, opt for natural wood décor and subtle room accessories. 

CHILDREN’S

How’s this for an understatement; it can be tough to make your child’s bedroom stylish. Of course, in an ideal world, we’d rather not have an entire room dedicated to Peppa Pig or Paw Patrol, but sacrificing stylistic control is all part of the job, we’re afraid to say. We’re not afraid to say, however, that there’s still room for a bit of a personality injection, even here.

A fun children’s wallpaper feature wall, such as one of these from wallsauce.com, could be the easy answer to bringing your child’s room to life. There are children’s wallpapers suitable for those as young as one month old all the way up to the grumpy teenager years.

We all know children grow up fast and tastes change faster than shoe sizes. Accordingly, do make sure you choose a versatile wallpaper that stands the test of time. Better still, purchase peel-and-stick wallpaper that’s self adhesive and removable. Once your child outgrows their wallpaper mural, you can gently peel it off without causing any damage to the wall. Then, you can buy a completely new peel and stick wallpaper to replace their old one.

PALM LEAF

Tropical palm leaf wallpaper might sound like a bad idea, particularly in gloomy old Britain, but this style is extremely on-trend right now. A bit Kardashian, a little Love Island, perhaps, but there’s no fighting fashion sometimes. Fortunately, there’s more versatility than you might expect in its deployment; you can find deep forest greens, bluey emerald or even bright lime green palm leaf wallpaper prints out there.  

That said, it’s important to practice contrast and restraint here; no one wants every wall to channel those tropical vibes. Instead, employ a single, eye-catching feature wall; palm leaf wallpaper looks best surrounded by walls with a contrasting colour. 

Keep the surrounding décor natural and subtle, or the effect will be jarring. Because most palm leaf wallpaper is highly detailed and abundant with beautiful patterns, simple furniture is a must. Choose white or natural wood chairs, tables and white soft furnishings such as duvet covers and cushions. Add a touch of bronze or rose gold pieces as well, such as a lamp or tealights, to add to the on-trend feel of the palm leaf room.

EXPOSED BRICK

The urbanite’s dream, this one. Or, it’s conceivable in the rural setting too, for those who would adore a rustic and cosy cottage with exposed wooden beams and brick walls. Both looks are totally different, but together they embrace the brick wall look with open arms. Seeing as it’s a messy job to chisel off plaster, it’s best to either seek the help of professionals here. Or, to achieve this stylish look without intervention, consider a brick-effect wallpaper.

We’re not talking a cheap, plastic facade beloved of a bygone area, but rather a more modern version which really does require close inspection to discern it’s not the real deal. Consider this for your kitchen for best effect.

And with that, we’ll see ourselves out. But before we go, we noticed your garden looking a little, shall we say, unkempt, on the way in. Check out our tips on how to make your garden a sanctuary in time for Spring and get yourself ready for better, brighter times ahead.

6 TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE THE IDEAL WEDDING VEIL 

Editorial Team
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6 TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE THE IDEAL WEDDING VEIL 

Every bride imagines how they’ll look on their wedding day – most of us before we’ve even found ‘the one’! From the style of your dress to the height of your heels, you’ve probably had a clear idea of what you’ll wear for longer than you’d like to admit. But with your big day on the horizon, and wedding planning in motion, it’s time to start turning those ideas into reality.

One aspect of your look that you’ve perhaps overlooked is your veil. So, to help you choose the ‘cherry on top’ of your bridal outfit (not an actual cherry, mind, that would look weird), here are 6 tips on how to choose the IDEAL wedding veil.

LOVE THE LENGTH 

Whether you want to make a statement in a floor-sweeping veil or keep things more modest with one that sits delicately on your shoulders, the length of this essential piece is an important decision to make. Consider your dress when choosing, and work out which length will best compliment the overall style of your outfit.

For minimal, modern dresses, shorter veils are usually better suited – think anything from thigh length and up. For traditional gowns, floor-length veils are the typical choice and suit the more formal dress. You can even take things up a notch with a floor-sweeping chapel or cathedral length look. 

DON’T FORGET THE WIDTH

You might not think it, but the width of your veil can make a big difference to your whole look. Narrower veils usually fall behind the dress, making them ideal for showing off bridal gowns with intricate straps or front detailing. 

A wider veil will fall completely over the arms and shoulders and usually works best with a strapless dress, otherwise the look can be a little much. Want something in the middle? Then go for it; this is your big day, after all. A medium width veil will give you the best of both worlds, covering your arms but still letting your dress take centre stage.

HOW MANY TIERS?

Nope, we’re not referring to the cake here. If you’re doing things traditionally, a veil can be created with up to three tiers. A one-tiered veil is a more modern choice; simple, sophisticated, and undeniably chic, it’s probably the most popular choice out there. If you’re going for a more formal look, a multiple tiered veil will usually cover the face, ready for your partner to lift it off once you’ve made your way down the aisle. For couples who love traditional ceremonies, this is the conventional choice.

CONSIDER THE COLOUR 

If you thought the colour choice of your veil would be easy, think again. Not only are there a multitude of shades of white to pick from, but there are also more modern shades out there, ranging from blush to grey-blue, giving you a whole lot of options. Consider whether you want to match your dress or create a contrasting look. If you’re going with the latter, your best bet is to try on different colours whilst wearing your gown to see what works for you.

You can also pick to have a regular, matte finish, or a crystal finish which adds a touch of shimmer to your veil. Decisions, decisions!

THE DEVIL’S IN THE DETAIL 

This is the really fun part – adding the unique details to your veil that will truly make it your own. As such, it’s time to get creative. From adding an intricately embroidered trim to creating a pattern on the tulle of the veil itself, there’s so much you can do to bring your veil to life and pull together your outfit.

When deciding on the details, it’s a great idea to have your whole outfit in mind – from your dress to your jewellery and even the flowers you’ll be carrying. You could match details from your other pieces to create a flow to your bridal outfit and make sure everything works perfectly together. On the flipside, you could leave the detailing out completely and opt for a chic, minimal look with a layer of tulle – it’s a stylish option that may be simple but is certain to stand out. 

GET OUT THERE 

Once you’ve worked out a rough idea of what you want – or, maybe you know exactly what you’re on the hunt for – it’s time to get out there and start searching. If you can, bring your dress along when trying on your veils; it’ll give you a much better idea of how they’ll work together. If you can’t, ask for fabric samples from veils you like to bring home and compare to your dress.

The author of this great piece, Sarah Bates, is the founder of Britten Weddings, wedding accessory suppliers specialising in hand crafted wedding veils, hair accessories, bridal jewellery and more.

5 IDEAL QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU RENT A HOUSE IN 2020

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU RENT A HOUSE IN 2020

It’s a tale as old as time itself. You see a property online, you fall in love with it, you speak to the landlord, agree on a rental amount and sign the contract. Happily Ever After ensues. If only it were that simple. In fact, there’s work to be done at every turn; from researching the right neighbourhood to hiring the right agent, paying the security deposit and finding a van big enough for moving day. 

To make things go as smoothly as possible, it’s vital to be prepared, primed and ready to pose the right questions. With that in mind, and with the help of Langford Russel, estate agents in Bromley, here are 5 IDEAL questions to ask before you rent a house in 2020.

FIND OUT IF YOUR LANDLORD ACCEPTS A ZERO DEPOSIT SCHEME

A zero deposit scheme basically allows you to pay only one week’s rent as a deposit to the company running that scheme after which you can rent a property. This works out better financially since you don’t have to pay 4 to 6 weeks rent as the initial deposit, which can be quite a punch to the bank balance when there are lots of other expenses associated with moving house. 

While the zero deposit scheme is of course beneficial to tenants, you’ll need to find out if your landlord accepts such an option instead of a traditional deposit. Keep in mind that the deposit under the zero deposit scheme is non-refundable at the end of the tenancy. However, this scheme allows you to safeguard your rights as a tenant since all the disputes are settled by The Dispute Service (usually referred to as TDS).

PET PEEVES?

Some landlords are open to having pets in the property while others can be finicky about it. Find out from the off which side your landlord’s toast is buttered. Instead of falling in love with a property, negotiating the terms and conditions of a contract, settling on a monthly deposit amount and then having your landlord tell you about the ‘no pets’ rule, it’s better that you bring up this question right in the beginning.

If your landlord is not okay with pets in the house, your estate agent can easily help you look for another place with that essential clause respected. Fortunately for animal lovers everywhere, recently announced government plans suggest that soon renters will be given rights to keep pets in all rental properties. 

WHAT IS THE TOTAL COST?

When it comes to renting, there’s a danger in assuming that the cost of the initial deposit and the monthly rental is the total you’ll be paying. Unfortunately, the cost of renting is much higher than this, and you should budget accordingly. 

You need to take in the fee of the real estate agent, the cost of the utility bills – this includes electricity bills, wifi bills, water bills, your TV licence, as well as council tax and maintenance fees which may not fall under the jurisdiction of the landlord. Then, there’s the cost of hiring a moving company to transfer all your stuff from your former home to the new property on moving day. Also, let’s not forget that some landlords might even charge a contract renewal fee at the end of the lease, while some may also charge an early exit fee. So, before you make the big move, make sure you factor in all these additional costs.

IS THIS THING ON?

Cursory inspections, with an estate agent breathing down your neck and the pressure to get back to work looming, are the normal way of doing things when checking out rental properties. But if you’re to take things to the next stage, and the property you’re checking out has potential, then it’s vital you check everything is in working order. In doing so, you can get those requests in to fix and update things while you still hold the cards.

Is there enough water pressure? Is the air conditioning working? Are there any broken light fixtures? Are there any leaky faucets? Are all the appliances working properly – this includes the microwave, refrigerator, television, toaster, mixer etc. Is there any mould on the walls? Are there any stains on the couch or carpets? Do the walls have any stains or peeling paint? Is the property clean?

If you find any faults or damages, make a list of the problems and ask the landlord to fix them before you move in. If you move in without making a note of these current damages, the chances are that the landlord might cut the cost of repair from your initial deposit. 

CAN I SCRUTINISE THE TENANCY AGREEMENT IN A LITTLE MORE DETAIL?

Finally, it’s imperative that you do your due diligence and thoroughly scrutinise the rental contract prior to moving in, to check everything is in order and above board. Your estate agent will be able to help with that. 

Ask if the name of the person renting the house to you the same as the name of the owner in the contract? What date does the tenancy begin? Are the details of the monthly rent, the date which rent is to be paid and any proposed rental increase all mentioned in the agreement? What appliances come with the property? Is there a detailed inventory of the property which has been verified by both you and the landlord? Does the agreement have an address of the landlord where notices regarding repair can be sent?

If there is anything in the contract that you don’t agree with, then ask your landlord to change those terms and conditions before signing. If the landlord does not agree, it is better that you find a new property instead of signing a legally binding document. 

Once you’re all settled, it’s time to give your new pad some charisma. Check out our 5 IDEAL ways to bring some personality to your rental home for inspiration!

5 IDEAL THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN TEACHING ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE IN SPAIN

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN TEACHING ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE IN SPAIN

Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL for short…phew) might just be the greatest career you’ve never considered. The perks and positives of this much overlooked employment choice are many; there’s a sense of freedom in being able to work anywhere in the world; the money, if you get your location right, can be lucrative; and it can be a rewarding, fulfilling and sociable job to boot. That said, it isn’t simply a matter of putting on a shirt and reciting your A,B,Cs; the job requires confidence, professionalism and dedication to succeed.

If the living abroad aspect of TEFL particularly appeals to you, and the idea of putting down roots on the continent in the land of Sangria and siesta has got you boning up on your future perfect continuous tense, then read on; our 5 IDEAL things to consider when teaching English as a foreign language in Spain.

TAKE YOUR TEFL COURSE IN SPAIN

To teach English as a foreign language anywhere in the world, you’ll often (though not always) need a Bachelor’s degree from university – this is usually for visa purposes, rather than an explicit demand of the language school – as well as an ESL qualification, such as a CELTA or TEFL. These qualifications are much the same, and most educational institutions across the world will accept either.

The good news is that in order to teach English as a foreign language in Spain, you don’t need a degree. And if you haven’t yet taken the necessary qualifications to teach English in Spain on home turf, then why not embark on that study programme where you want to live?

There are many TEFL courses in Spain that offer teacher training courses to help you along your way, gaining you the necessary qualification and skills, as well as helping you acclimatise to the weather, culture and new way of life in the country. Doing it this way round will help you put your best foot forward when you first enter the classroom.

PUNCTUALITY…

Now you’ve earned your qualifications, it’s time to earn your stripes in the classroom. But beware; discipline and dedication take very different forms in the TEFL world, particularly as you’ll usually be teaching adults, and most certainly be educating with an ‘extra curricular’ hat on.

Spanish timekeeping tends to be a bit looser than the tardiness we expect in Britain, and as such, you’ll need to make it plain from the offset that you expect punctuality from your students. Otherwise, things will be lax from day dot, and a tone will be set not conducive to study.

Ultimately, the key is consistency – if they turn up late once and things go smoothly in class regardless, then they’ll never arrive on time again.

…& SPONTANEITY

That said, the Spanish value (and thrive on) spontaneity, so be prepared to be flexible in your teaching style. Don’t stick too rigidly to those lesson plans, and move, groove and adapt to the needs of the class as you go. The students will appreciate this approach and respond to it positively.

Though this might mean your lesson plans take a looser look, with room for deviations backwards, sideways and in front, once you’re accustomed to this style of teaching, you’ll find it suits the Spanish learning style perfectly. Strike a fine balance between control and fluidity and both you and the students will be richly rewarded.

There are various tools you can use, from a Spanish homeschool app for kids to online platforms like Quizlet that gamify revision, which can help implement a system of rewards for learning in a fun and fluid way.

DIFFERENT DIALECTS & LANGUAGE NEEDS

Catalan, Basque, Galician, Andalusian…there are more different dialects in Spain than you can count on one hand, and each region has a personality and pride all of their own. Learning styles, study methods, and particularly, pronunciation will vary hugely. It’s important to be aware of the quirks of the Spanish language which will interfere with their English learning and the regional and dialectical concerns which could affect students’ language acquisition.

Pay particular attention to the overuse of ‘how’ when forming questions (in place of ‘what’ and ‘which’), as well as plenty of countable/uncountable noun confusion, and issues with ‘ing’ and ‘ed’ adjectives. These are just a couple to look out for, rather than an exhaustive list, but it’s important to be aware of common errors of Spanish learners and to bone up on some foreign language learning facts before taking your first class.

FINANCIAL MATTERS

Though English teaching jobs in Spain offer a decent quality of life, fantastic cuisine, lively culture and more, it’s important to be realistic about the money involved. The average wage for a TEFL teacher in the country is between 12 and 16 euros, and the cost of living much higher than many other countries which attract thousands of English language teachers each year. As such, it would be foolish to head to Spain to teach English thinking you’ll be living the lap of luxury; a savvy approach to budgeting is a must. In adopting a conservative approach to your finances, you’ll be able to enjoy an amazing country with enthusiastic students for years to come. Good luck!

7 IDEAL QUIRKY & CURIOUS UK TRADITIONS

Editorial Team
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7 IDEAL QUIRKY & CURIOUS UK TRADITIONS

Although the UK is made up of just four small countries, the island has a rich and long history that has spawned plenty of idiosyncratic traditions. While many of our overseas cousins may laugh at our eccentricities, they’re ours so we might as well make the most of them. Here are 7 IDEAL quirky and curious UK traditions. 

FENWICK’S WINDOW 

In 1971, Fenwick’s, an upmarket department store, decided to display an annual festive spectacle for North East shoppers. This display has become a hugely popular tradition. Nowadays, the windows which line Northumberland Street in Newcastle Upon Tyne are adored by people of all ages, and crowds arrive hours ahead of the big reveal day.  

In the past inspiration has been taken from children’s books such as Beatrix Potter and Peter Pan, and each and every year proves to be more outstanding than the last. While many people associate Geordies and Christmas time with night’s spent revelling in sub—zero temperatures (without a coat!), Fenwick’s fairytale window is perhaps an even more celebrated tradition of the toon.

KIRKWALL BA

Further north, since 1650 Orkney’s capital Kirkwall has seen ‘Ba’ play particular importance in the festive calendar. Described as more like a civil war than a game of football, on Christmas Eve and Hogmanay the town is divided into two teams, the ‘Uppies’ and ‘Doonies’. In the past the two squads were decided thanks to where they were born in relation to the towns Cathedral. 

Here’s how the game goes; a leather ball stuffed with cork is played through the town’s alleyways and back streets while opposing sides compete to get it in the net. There are referees who control the general flow of the game and ensure anyone who lands on the ground is picked up again, but apart from that, the game is effectively without rules. It relies, more simply, on honour. And we could all do with a bit of that in modern times, hey?

HAGGIS HURLING

Staying in Scotland, Haggis itself is specific to Caledonia. However, eating the sheep’s pluck delicacy is quite a commonly known tradition, with the 25th January Burns Night celebrations centering around a feast of haggis, neaps, and tatties.

However, a lesser known tradition in Scotland is the annual ‘Haggis Hurling’ event. Originating in the 17th century, when men were working in the fields during the day, their wives would cook them a haggis for their lunch and throw it across the river. The man would then use the front of his kilt as a cushion to soften the blow of the meat and prevent it from landing on the ground. 

Fast forward to the present day and ‘Haggis Hurling’ has established itself as a competitive sport where judges score the competition depending on how far the delicacy has travelled and whether it can still be eaten afterwards. Extra points are not awarded, however, for those wearing no underwear under their kilt.

THE WELSH LOVESPOON 

Gift a bunch of flowers, buy a box of chocolates, or even send a GIF on messenger….all accepted ways to display affection, for sure. In Wales, however, if you’re trying to win the heart of someone, a spoon is often used as a present. Okay, so it isn’t just your standard teaspoon, but it is a spoon nonetheless; it usually features a symbol which translates into a meaning, such as an anchor for safety or dragon for protection. This tradition is alive and well today, and such spoons are available in many of the country’s gift shops. Why not give it a try next time you fall in love?

BALMORAL SHOW

In a country steeped in agricultural history, it shouldn’t be a surprise that one of Northern Ireland’s largest annual events is an agri-food show. Starting in 1894, the Balmoral Show has in recent years relocated to the site of the Old Maze Prison camp. With more than 115,000 annual visitors, the show includes showjumping competitions, sheep shearing time trials, and a best in show category for livestock and equine. The three-day festival, which offers something for everyone, is a fine, immersive display of a certain side of Northern Irish culture. 

THE PADSTOW OBBY OSS

May Day in Cornwall is celebrated in a rather different fashion to the rest of the UK. The Obby Oss Festival traces back further than the 1820’s, with historians believing it holds links to the Celtic festival of Beltane. The small Cornish town transforms into a feast of festive frolics and colour as locals spend the evening of the 30th April decorating the streets with flags and flowers, before two “osses”, one blue and one red, make their way through the streets, cheered on by onlookers joining in with the celebrations. After that, a right good knees up begins. 

PETER PAN CUP

Open only to the experienced members of the Serpentine Swimming Club who have qualified throughout the season to guarantee a place in the event, the Peter Pan Cup pits swimmers against one another in a 100-yard race in what are often near freezing cold waters. The event occurs on Christmas Day in Hyde Park and has been going since 1904, when its inaugural race saw James Matthew Barrie donate the Peter Pan Cup to competitors of the Christmas day swim through Hyde Park following the debut of his play on the London stage. That’s more than 100 years of history right there. Wow.

5 IDEAL OLD SCHOOL FASHION ITEMS MAKING A COMEBACK IN 2020

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5 IDEAL OLD SCHOOL FASHION ITEMS MAKING A COMEBACK IN 2020

Black is the new black is the new grey is the new charcoal, wasn’t it? Indeed, what’s cool, uncool, old school or novel seems to be in a constant state of evolution. The only thing predictable here is the unpredictability. As such, we’re focusing on those timeless items which started their life with a different purpose but have since been appropriated by the fashion world: trainers are no longer just for running, nor are jumpsuits for jumping, and the sartorial world evolves accordingly.

Yep, fashion is unruly and should be celebrated as such. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL old school fashion items making a comeback in 2020.

TRAINERS

When trainers were first conceived, no one had fashion in mind. The earliest forms of trainers were plimsolls and their rubber design featured no distinction between the right and left foot. These primitive trainers were purely utilitarian, the fact that they were cheap and wearable was prioritised over aesthetics.  

But James Dean’s trainer debut in the hit film Rebel Without a Cause helped the popularity of ‘fashion trainers’ grow, and many clothing companies jumped on the sportswear-as-streetwear bandwagon. Gola’s iconic Harrier trainer, for example, was originally launched as a general training shoe geared towards squash, badminton and other sports. This design has since become a streetwear staple, with classic trainers looking set to be hugely popular once again in the new decade.

JUMPSUITS AND BOILERSUITS

In recent years, jumpsuits and boilersuits have seen a surge in popularity on the high street. And their ubiquity is only going to grow in the coming decade. Despite their current status as fashion must-haves, their origins were entirely practical. Designed by a Florentine designer in 1919, jumpsuits were created, as their name suggests, for jumping. More specifically, they were made for parachuters or skydivers making jumps out of planes. After this, they also became popular with race car drivers, aviators and even astronauts. 

When you think about it, jumpsuits were iconic fixtures of the twentieth century. From Rosie the River on the wartime “We Can Do It!” poster to the disco dancing of ‘70s Saturday Night Fever, and even the 1969 moon landing, they were always around. They gradually transcended their pragmatic origins to become fashion statements and are now essential items in every fashionista’s arsenal.

BUM BAGS

The bum bag is an unlikely item that has made a roaring comeback among festival goers over recent years. Whether this fashion comes from a place of post-modern ‘uncool’ irony, or the necessity for keeping your stuff in one place when spangled, or from a genuine appreciation, the bum bag is here to stay.

We can trace its origins back to 1962, when the first prototype was designed by Australian Melba Stone. However, the concept of a pouch held around the waist by string goes much further back. As bags predate pockets, people needed somewhere secure and close to their person to store their most valuable items. A pouch held at the waist seemed to be the perfect solution, and this gave us the ‘chatelaine’, a bum bag forerunner. In Scotland, the equivalent was the traditional ‘sporran’, which was a small pouch normally made from animal fur, worn over a kilt.

Although we haven’t yet seen the sporran or the chatelaine become a festival essential, bum bags are worn with vigour. Whether tied around the waist or slung over the shoulder, these items bring fashion and practicality together (with a pinch of ‘middle aged tourist’ irony thrown in for good measure). Look out for Taylor Swift rocking hers on the stage of Glastonbury 2020 later this year!

HIGH NECK DRESSES

High neck dresses found huge popularity in the 60s, and surged back into the public consciousness through TV hit series Mad Men, when the fictional advertising agency Sterling Cooper’s New York setting saw the glamorous and fabulous donning these iconic dresses regularly. 

The modern high street followed suit, with IT girls of the present day channeling this swinging 60s look succinctly. With retro, nostalgic fashion looking set for another bumper decade, expect to see high neck dresses worn in formal settings to great effect.

DOUBLE DENIM

Double denim. Cut off sleeves. Exposed muscles. Bandana. Style icon and silver haired heartthrob Bruce Springsteen has been an unofficial spokesman for double denim for decades, and suddenly, it seems, the whole world wants to catch up. Where once this was a fashion faux pas up there with socks and sandals or combining a brown belt with black shoes, now the whole catwalk is at it with enthusiasm. So make it a new year’s resolution; in the 2020s you’ll give double denim another go.

Bringing back clothes from a bygone era is a fantastic excuse for re and upcycling; great for the environment just as much as it is for your wardrobe. Check out our other tips for avoiding fast fashion now, and save the planet whilst still looking great.

 

THE UK’S TOP 10 IDEAL WALKING DESTINATIONS

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THE UK’S TOP 10 IDEAL WALKING DESTINATIONS

Come rain or shine, the British love the great outdoors. From a summer’s day stroll to a traditional boxing day walk, there’s always a good excuse to get away from the bustling city and take in some country air. According to the NHS, walking is ”one of the easiest ways to get more activie, lose weight and become healthier.”

We couldn’t agree more. A good walk can uplift your mental wellbeing, improving self-esteem, mood and sleep quality. Pair this with the physical benefits brought on by fresh air and exercise, and you should need no more encouragement to embrace the outdoors. There really is no reason not to (ignore the rain, guys).

Thanks to data collated by the Ordnance Survey, based on routes created by OS map users over the last few years, we have now discovered the most popular walking routes throughout the UK. Despite most of the routes being grouped in and around the national parks (as could be expected), city routes also got some recognition.

Brighton, Manchester and Birmingham all featured highly in the results, showing that OS users were making time for healthy walks even in built-up areas. This is good news for anyone that wants to throw on some flat boots and go on a shorter stroll — you don’t have to scale the highest mountains in the country to sample the great outdoors. 

But enough of the chitchat, let’s get to it. The results are in, and here are the UK’s IDEAL top ten walking destinations. 

MOUNT SNOWDON, WALES

This mountain is not for the faint hearted, that’s for sure, but the glorious views make all that heavy breathing and potential altitude sickness well worth your while. There are various routes up to choose from, ranging from Crib Goch, a challenging scramble, to Llanberis Path, which provides a steady gradient and a relatively straightforward route. Choose your poison accordingly.

EDALE, THE PEAK DISTRICT 

Edale, a quaint village in the Peak District, is a walker’s paradise. Many people use Edale as a starting off point to walk the Pennine way (a 268-mile trek that takes most hikers up to 19 days) but if you’re looking for a more relaxed walk, you could try the Edale Low Level Circular Walk which will take you on a picturesque, steady route.

SCAFELL PIKE, THE LAKE DISTRICT 

Scafell Pike is a complex mountain to hike, but the landscape will take your breath away. The simplest route to take up the summit is via Brown Tongue from Wasdale, but if you’re feeling more ambitious and want to see the best the mountain has to offer, try the Corridor Route. 

ALLEN CRAGS, THE LAKE DISTRICT 

Allen Crags, in the beautiful Lake District, is part of a nine-mile scenic walk that takes in the glorious Great Gable mountain. The walk starts from Seathwaite and then winds up the summit of Allen Crags. You’ll be rewarded by some glorious countryside if you take this one on. 

GREAT END, THE LAKE DISTRICT 

The Lake District strikes again with a mountain sometimes overlooked by those headed for Scafell Peak. But Great End is a dramatic mountain in its own right, with a sheer edge; striking to behold, make no mistake. The route up this mountain is fairly challenging due to the unavoidable large boulders on the way to the peak, so perhaps this isn’t one for the laypeople. Keen hikers, though, should stand to attention!

HELVELLYN, THE LAKE DISTRICT

Helvellyn is a beautiful mountain surrounded by the Lake District’s signature bright blue lakes. The peak is 50 metres (or 3117 feet high, in old money) and should take three to four hours to ascend. All the routes to the summit are fairly challenging and require a high level of fitness. Better get on that heavily inclined treadmill, pronto, in preparation.

EDALE (HOLLINS CROSS), THE PEAK DISTRICT

Not satisfied with being second, Edale makes a comeback as the union’s seventh most popular walking area, too. The walk from Edale to Hollins Cross takes you off in a different direction to the Edale walks that we looked at previously, and here’s some good news after all that hard work; this is an easy walk along a public footpath, suitable for seasoned hikers and newbies alike. The path takes you up to the Hollins Cross memorial, from which you get a fantastic view of the surrounding landscape. 

HOPE CROSS, THE PEAK DISTRICT

The walk that leads you to the landmark of Hope Cross will take you through fields, over stiles, and through woodlands, giving you access to the Great British countryside at its best. This walk is moderate and can be accessed very easily from Sheffield city centre as you can jump on a train straight to the starting point (Hope train station). It’s an easy and accessible route for anyone to enjoy. Can you hear that? It’s the sound of us breathing a sigh of relief.

CROOKSTONE HILL, THE PEAK DISTRICT 

Crookstone Hill, or Crookstone Knoll to some more ‘seasoned’ walkers, is close to the Hope Cross walk, meaning combining the two in a day is eminently doable. A steady, grassy landscape with a beautiful panorama, this hill can be reached easily from the car park at Hope, making it accessible to all. 

FAIRHOLMES, HOPE VALLEY

If you’re looking for a gentle walk in Yorkshire, then Fairholmes is a great place to start. Beginning at the Fairholmes Visitor Centre, this stroll is well signposted and moderate in the challenging stakes. Taking you through farmland and a peaceful valley, the scenery (and pace) is truly idyllic. 

So there you have it. Great for both your physical and mental health, and with difficulty levels ranging from canter to clambering a cliff, the options are endless for walking in the UK. Now, get out there and show those paths what you’re made of!

5 IDEAL TRAVEL TIPS FOR A SKIING TRIP IN TIGNES

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5 IDEAL TRAVEL TIPS FOR A SKIING TRIP IN TIGNES

TOP TRAVEL TIPS FOR A SKIING TRIP IN TIGNES

If you’re after a snow-sure season, then look no further than Tignes in the French Alps, close to the Italian border. The Grande Motte Glacier, which rises above the group of villages that make up this high altitude ski resort, offers year round skiing and plenty of the extracurricular stuff, too. Yes, you heard it right; you can also ride the slopes in the summer months. To get the most out of your time here, a little planning and foresight is required. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL travel tips for a skiing trip in Tignes.

HOW TO GET THERE 

The most convenient airport to fly to for Tignes is Geneva, which offers frequent flights to and from many UK cities at the lowest prices you’ll find. London is only 1 hour and 40 minutes away, which means you could be on the slopes by lunchtime should you set off early doors. An airport transfer (137 miles) takes around 2 hours 40 minutes to get from Geneva airport to Tignes, and the views on the journey are pretty spectacular, to say the least. 

You can also get to Tignes by train, taking around 9 hours. The Eurostar runs ski trains from London St Pancras and Ashford in Kent to Bourg Saint Maurice in south-east France, every Saturday between April and December, and there are also night trains running on Fridays from January to April. From Bourg Saint Maurice, you can get to Tignes in just 40 minutes, via the funicular train, transfer or bus.

TOP TRAVEL TIPS FOR A SKIING TRIP IN TIGNES

WHERE TO STAY 

Made up of several villages with varying altitudes and amenities, it’s best to get familiar with the different areas of Tignes before booking your accommodation. From self-catered apartments and catered chalets to hotels and resorts, there’s something for everyone here. 

The central hub, where all the action happens in Tignes, is undoubtedly Val Claret; the highest village with direct access to the slopes. Here you’ll have a pick of hotels to choose from and the apres-ski is considered the best in the region, with many bars and clubs, restaurants and shops. A little further down you’ll find Le Lac which sits next to the gorgeous Tignes Lake, offering lots of slope-side accommodation. It’s mostly made up of high rise apartment blocks but has a few traditional alpine-style chalets, too. Both Val Claret and Le Lac offer high altitude access to the slopes but Le Lac has a better nursery slope and is arguably more attractive.

Le Lavachet boasts cheaper ski in/ski out apartments, and is slightly quieter than Le Lac; whether that’s a positive or negative is up to you. It’s linked to the lifts by ski bus and what’s more, a bus service runs through the night if you want to explore the rest of Tignes. Further down the valley, you’ll find Tignes 1800 and Tignes Le Brevieres. These are the older and more traditional villages and are more secluded than the areas higher up the mountain. 

TOP TRAVEL TIPS FOR A SKIING TRIP IN TIGNES

OUT ON THE PISTE 

Apres-ski, the social activities and entertainment that follow a days skiing, is half (hmm, perhaps more?) the fun of any ski trip. We’ve already mentioned that the nightlife in Val Claret is the best, and home to the most popular nightclubs (The Blue Girl and Melting Pot, if you’re asking).  

However, if you’re after something properly rowdy, then visit the world-renowned apres ski bar ‘La Folie Douce’ where table dancing and partying on the piste is encouraged. Here the entertainment kicks off every afternoon at 3pm, and sees dancers, live music and DJ’s make this area of Tignes as hot as an Ibiza nightclub without melting the snow.  Another firm favourite for apres ski sessions is the ski in/ski out Loop bar at the bottom of the Trolles slope in Le Lac. Their huge sun terrace is legendary and has some of the best live bands in the Alps. Bliss. 

TOP TRAVEL TIPS FOR A SKIING TRIP IN TIGNES

FUEL YOUR SKI SAVOYARD STYLE 

Alpine food is undoubtedly the best fuel for skiers and there’s plenty of hearty Savoyard fare to be found in Tignes. Highly calorific, based on lots of melted cheese and potatoes, these dishes we’re designed to keep mountain villagers, who were often isolated for months, going during the long, snowy winters. Today, they are a perfect way to keep energy levels going strong after a morning tumbling down the mountains. 

The French Fondue, as delicious as it is, needs no introduction. Some other Savoyard specialities you must-try include Raclette, where a semi-hard round local cheese is melted then spooned over boiled potatoes and served with an assortment of charcuterie such as Savoyard ham and rosette de Lyon and pickles on the side. If you’ve still got room, then Tartiflette is a rich and luxurious gooey gratin of potatoes, reblochon cheese (can you see a theme developing here?) lardons and onions. And Croziflette, a French baked buckwheat pasta dish which is similar to Tartiflette, sees potatoes replaced with that pasta. Wowzers.

And before the food coma renders you useless, throw back some dessert; here, a blueberry tart (tarte aux myrtilles) is a wonderful way to finish things (and you) off.

OTHER SNOWSPORTS

Although this is first and foremost a skiing destination, the abundance of snow means that you’d be mad not to try out some of the other snowsports on offer here. And rest assured, there’s a whole host of hair raising, adrenaline baiting activities available on the slopes. In fact, we’ve written more about that over here, so check out these 5 IDEAL things to do in Val Thorens.

And with that, we wish you a safe trip on the slopes!

 

5 IDEAL WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR WELLBEING WITH MUSIC EDUCATION

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR WELLBEING WITH MUSIC EDUCATION

We are now in the throes of a new month, new year and new decade, and that sense of rebirth and rejuvenation is palpable. Many of us are looking for a fresh start (or at least, a new hobby) which is enriching for the mind, body and soul; something to focus our attention on, to channel our energy towards, which will reward and satisfy, and provide the opportunity for socialising and learning. 

Well, we’ve got just the thing; musical education. But don’t be put off by the ‘E’ word; this is fun and fulfilling in equal measure. Whether that takes the form of taking up a musical instrument or learning to sing, the benefits are myriad. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to improve your wellbeing with music education.

REDUCE STRESS AND ANXIETY

Many of us need to figure out ways to create less stress and anxiety in our daily lives, and that’s the truth. Music can be that answer (can I get a hallelujah?). When listening to or playing music, your brain gets a boost of dopamine, which elevates mood and relieves stress. 

Indeed, a study done in 2013 explored the effects of music on stress to those who listened to relaxing sounds, and those who listened to nothing at all. The results showed that those who turned to music had the best reduction in stress and anxiety overall. This decrease in stress also slows down your heart rate and blood pressure, giving you a heart-healthy response. But all this pales into insignificance when compared to the relaxation given by playing a musical instrument; time and time again it’s been said to be good for your health.

BUILDS UPON SOCIAL SKILLS

Music is an outlet for creativity, of that there is no doubt. For most of us, listening to music is just a hobby, but when we take actual lessons to learn that music we love, we’re able to build on our social skills, too. Singing lessons, in particular, create a connection to the music that requires learning how to express one’s self. 

Tracy Reina, founder and voice teacher with Music to Your Home’s NYC singing lessons, states that “when taking vocal lessons, you focus on how to evoke emotions with the music. In doing so, you learn how to express feelings, and are able to utilise that same skill when connecting with others.” So you can take your singing instruction and apply it to your life, in ways such as making new friends or just establishing stronger relationships with those around you.

Listening is another social skill that is improved through music education. In learning to hear tempos, harmonies, and dynamics, all of which work the auditory portion of your brain, you’ll enhance your listening skills.

IMPROVES MEMORY AND BRAIN POWER

Learning a new musical instrument or taking voice lessons requires in-depth study and a good workout of the memory, too. In the repetition and practice, you utilise the part of your brain that remembers, which strengthens that memory of yours, as well as other cognitive skills in the process. In one study, memory tests were taken and, simply put, those that studied music tended to outperform those who did not. 

BUILDS CONFIDENCE AND SELF-ESTEEM

Taking care of our mental health is becoming ever more important, and believe it or not, music education helps with that, too. When you study a piece of music, you develop confidence in your own abilities. When you work towards a goal, a sense of fulfillment is generated which is crucial to your self-esteem. Receiving compliments and praise from your music instructor or even peers only serves to enhance that. It’s even been said that by mastering a difficult song or piece of music, you gain a sense of control in your life; vital for contentment. 

FOCUS AND SELF-DISCIPLINE

Music education can also (is there anything it can’t do?) improve your sense of wellbeing by giving you more focus and self-discipline. Daily practice is important when taking music lessons, and focus is required to listen, learn, and apply all of these to your song or musical piece. You’re required to concentrate and focus all of your attention on the task at hand, which nurtures good habits applicable to all walks of life.

Self-discipline is achieved through the establishment of a strong, habitual routine. Taking music lessons requires practice every day, inside and outside of the class. In doing so, you have to become diligent about setting aside that time. This creates a habit or a routine that improves your time management skills since you work to structure your time. 

So, what are you waiting for? That guitar in the corner is gathering dust…go get it!

 

5 IDEAL HEALTH APPS TO DOWNLOAD IN 2022

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5 IDEAL HEALTH APPS TO DOWNLOAD IN 2022

It’s here. 2020 has landed, and with it a fresh outlook on life. New year, new you, right? And if you’re one of the thousands (millions, even) determined to take your first steps on a fitness journey, then it’s only natural to want to look for shortcuts and hacks to make things easier. And as if by magic, technology is here to lend a helping hand in our quest to get healthy. So, we’ve teamed up with Pharma Nord, who stock a huge range of natural health products including joint supplements, to bring you these; our 5 IDEAL health apps to download in 2020.

BABYLON: GP AT HAND

The NHS is consistently looking at ways to make the internet and technology more accessible to everyone, with the aim of inclusivity and improved public health driving several great initiatives. The Babylon app gives you the option to chat with an NHS GP 24/7 via a video appointment, granting peace of mind to users and easing the work burden on health professionals in the process.

Usually, you’ll be seen within two hours of making your request, meaning that you no longer have to wait weeks for an appointment or attend a walk-in surgery. It allows the doctor to discuss your symptoms and, where necessary, you can show them your issues on camera. A great innovation. 

ESQUARED

If being in the gym gives you discipline and motivation to get your exercise fix, but you don’t want to commit to a 12-month contract that often comes along with gym memberships, then download Esquared. This app works in the same way as Uber in the sense that it allows you to find gym sessions and one-off classes in your area, all done by location and all saving you coin, too. The benefit of this app is that it’s non-committal and there are no subscription fees. Currently, it’s only available in London and Sydney, but keep an eye out for an expansion push soon.

COUCH TO 5K

This app could probably be classed as old school by now, but that doesn’t mean its popularity and effectiveness have dwindled. Nearly everyone who has wanted to improve health and fitness has at least heard of the couch to 5k challenge. More than likely, they’ve given it a try. 

This app and programme is ideal for those who don’t particularly have the fitness levels to take on marathons but want to increase their physical ability nonetheless. Presented by Public Health England, it builds you up gradually with a mix of running and walking so that within nine weeks you should be able to run 5 kilometres (3.1 miles). There’s also a choice of five virtual trainers to help you on your fitness journey and keep you motivated. Since the mince pies and turkey leftovers seem to have only just been finished, this incrementgoal-orientatedated approach is perfectly suited to that post-Christmas slump.

7 CUPS

Of course, it’s not just our physical well-being we should be focusing on. Mental health has become a major topic of interest in recent years and app developers have responded accordingly.

In the UK, approximately one in four of us will experience a mental health problem each year, with depression and anxiety two of the most common issues. 7 Cups, an American-based app, helps those who feel isolated discuss their concerns and issues, helping to connect users instantaneously to one of its 160,000 trained volunteer listeners and licensed therapists. It’s anonymous, free, and confidential, and also allows users to participate in larger chats through group support discussion rooms. A problem shared is a problem halved, hey?

CALM 

Prevention is better than cure, as they say, and staying with the mental health theme, guided meditation app Calm is here to help you take a moment, breathe and relax. In doing so, studies have suggested you’ll be better equipped to keep low mood at bay.

With Calm’s ‘7 Days of Calm’ feature, you’ll be led through the basics of mindfulness and meditation. This guided course is made of seven sessions, ranging from three to twelve minutes – ideal for taking a quick break or relaxing at night. The app has a variety of breathing exercises, meditations, soothing sounds and even sleep stories to choose from; making it a good all-rounder if you’re not sure where to start. An incredibly healthy habit to begin as part of your New Year’s resolutions, don’t you think?

5 IDEAL THINGS WE’RE INTO THIS WEEK 10.01.2020

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5 IDEAL THINGS WE’RE INTO THIS WEEK 10.01.2020

Here at IDEAL we realise that there’s more to this crazy dance than the accumulation of ‘stuff’. A life of accruing possessions will only accrue dust. Oiling the Capitalist wheels with your wallet won’t bring clarity, of that there’s no doubt….

But who can deny the positivity that a bit of pampering brings? There’s nothing wrong with taking a look inwards from time to time, letting go and just spoiling yourself. With a new month, new year and new decade finally here, we’re fully embracing Veganuary and the chance for a reboot, a rethink of our diets, and the discovery of some gorgeous plant based recipes. So, we’re sharing a few things bringing us a little peace of mind right now; our own spot of retail therapy, if you will, with these 5 IDEAL things we’re into this week. Go on. You deserve this.

SPIRALIZER 

The ultimate ‘gone vegan’ cliche, we get it, but it has that reputation for a reason; it really is a wondertool in making delicious, plant based dishes. If you’ve been living on Mars, let us explain; the spiralizer is an ingenious piece of Japanese kitchen equipment which, via super sharp blades and a little elbow grease, creates thin ribbons of whatever vegetable you choose to feed into it. 

It’s a great way to cut down on the carbs, and also enables a healthy, plant-based alternative to pasta. Its most popular use is for ‘courgetti’, which we can’t get enough of, but the spiralizer is also great for making intriguing shapes for pickles (carrot and cucumber work particularly well) or a really crispy potato rosti. We particularly love the BN7 from Benriner, as its vertical design is a great space saver. And in kitchens where countertop real estate is always at a premium, that’s real winner.

Available at Amazon from £55.00 

LEON – FAST VEGAN

If you’re new to veganism, you’re probably wondering how to cook plant-based dishes that are not only nutritious but also absolutely delicious. Or perhaps you’re a seasoned vegan bored with the same old stuffed pepper recipes. 

Enter a cookbook from the health conscious, high street restaurant chain Leon. Yeah, you know the one; yours, ours and everyone’s go-to when you’ve overindulged. The one which always surprises you with its quality. Anyway, It’s called the ‘Fast Vegan cookbook’, and it’s written by Chantal Symons, John Vincent and Rebecca Seal. Containing over 150 recipes that take inspiration from around the world, it’s all about food that tastes good and does good to you. The best bit? You can curate whole meals from the book seamlessly, since it’s made up of three sections; The Main Event, On The Side and Sweet. Easy.

Available at Waterstones for £25

CARBON THEORY 

We’re obsessed with London-born cult beauty brand Carbon Theory. Their vegan, charcoal based skincare products have become a firm favourite with skincare fans seeking clearer complexions and even clearer consciences to boot. They use activated charcoal and organic tea tree oil in most of their products which both calm oily skin and keep breakouts at bay. The result? Balanced, clear and hydrated skin.  

We’re particularly fond of their mineral mud mask which leaves your skin feeling detoxified from all those pollutants that our skin has to deal with each and every day. They currently have new products in development and we can’t wait to see what they come up with next.

Range available from carbontheory.com 

HAPPY COW

For vegans heading to a new city or country for a break, the worry about whether there will be decent plant based grub (or any at all) to meet you from the airport can sometimes put a dampener on the trip. But be damp no more; the Happy Cow app has got your back. Simply type in your new location, and that cheerful bovine software will suggest vegan and vegan friendly restaurants nearby. What’s truly impressive is the app’s reach; it covers the entire globe in well researched detail, and offers filters such as ‘farmer’s market’ and ‘juice bar’, enabling you to get super specific with your needs. An essential travel companion for vegans everywhere, this.

Available to download on at www.happycow.net/mobile 

B.BEAUTY

Replacing all your beauty products in one fell swoop with vegan ones can be incredibly expensive. Lessening the load are B.Beauty, a bargain vegan beauty brand exclusive to Superdrug who are doing great things in the conscious cosmetics world currently. Their cute tagline ‘b.ready for anything’ sums up the vibe neatly; unfussy, approachable and affordable, but the best part are their pledges; vegan friendly and micro plastic free, as well as being part of the Cruelty Free International movement. The fact their products are really lovely to use certainly does no harm, either

Available from www.superdrug.com/brandshop/B

THE IDEAL MONTH-BY-MONTH WEDDING PLANNING CHECKLIST

Editorial Team
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THE IDEAL MONTH-BY-MONTH WEDDING PLANNING CHECKLIST

You’re engaged! Congratulations. And good luck. This is both one of the happiest and most stressful times of your life; all rolled into one. The key to success and lack of stress, as with so many things in life, is preparation. And while the joy of the proposal might still feel fresh, and the actuality of the big day far in the future, reducing pressure as the wedding nears is all about getting started early. So, with that in mind, here is the IDEAL month-by-month wedding planning checklist.

THE FUN PART OF THE PLANNING: 18 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY

In the beginning, planning a wedding can be very overwhelming when you look at the bigger procedural picture. But when viewed in the right light, this part can be great fun too as you can decide what exactly it is that you want for your wedding day and imagine a scene still far enough off to not seem real. 

We’d suggest that this is the time to start flicking through wedding magazines and start a pinterest board folder to keep track of all your favourite ideas. Once you have a rough guide of what it is that you really want, you can then work out what the costs for this would be and adjust your budget accordingly. Another fun part is inviting close friends and family to be part of your wedding party. Breaking the big news to loved ones, we think, is one of the most enjoyable parts of the whole process. So take a moment to bask in the engagement glow and even throw an engagement party if you wish.

THE REAL PLANNING BEGINS: 12 -10 MONTHS OF COUNTDOWN

Once the year mark is here, the real planning begins. You should have by now decided on your guestlist, reserved a prospective date in the diary. Weddings venues get booked out months in advance so the sooner you can book the better. Look at places and check availability, to get an idea of how many backup options you’re likely to need. Then visit the places you really like and book one.

You should also have a rough estimate of how many your guests you’re likely to be welcoming, in order to filter out which venues can accommodate your desired number. During this process, ask potential venues if tables, chairs, and even tablecloth linens are included.

It’s also time to do the boring stuff like book your officiant and sort out your wedding license and look at wedding insurance (yawn). It’s also time to send out those save the dates cards. At the stage, trying on dresses is a must as you’ll need plenty of time to get the dress altered, fitted and re-fitted as is necessary.

NERVES START TO JANGLE: 9 – 7 MONTHS TO GO

If you’re planning on filling that dancefloor with moving, grooving units, it’s time book the entertainment; if you’re planning to fill bellies with good food, you’d better be meeting the caterers. Accommodation needs to be considered, too; reserve blocks of hotel rooms for your guests that will be travelling from out of town. Also, have a think about the wedding stationary and personalised accessories that you want. Now is the the kind of time that you can schedule in a fun day out with the girls, shopping for bridesmaid dresses. Book hair and makeup artists for the morning of the big day if that’s your thing.

If you’re still not sure about what style of wedding invite you want, drawing inspiration from others is no bad thing. Head on over to a website such as Bride and Groom Direct, which offers a huge range of wedding invitation ideas, wedding stationary and personalised wedding accessories that you can order online. There’s also a lot of great stuff on sites like trusty old Pinterest, so don’t be afraid to pool knowledge and ideas from the web. And don’t forget to keep RSVP list on an excel spreadsheet – not a piece of paper that you’ll lose.

Now is also a great time to make a wedding website with all the information the guests might need including your wedding gift list and detailed travel information. Having all the information online will make your wedding planning so much easier and will save on phone calls from guests who will inevitably have loads of questions to ask.

IT’S GETTING NEARER: JUST HALF A YEAR TO GO

Around 6 months before your wedding day, you will want to start planning for your honeymoon, meet with your officiant, book a florist, and arrange transportation to and from the wedding. It’s also a sensible time to confirm your catering and try sample dishes so your menu is war-ready. Reach out to a local company like the wedding catering Toronto team that will deliver an unforgettable experience on such a special day. Don’t forget the vegetarian and vegan options – a must these days. Don’t forget your wedding cake either. Start considering the type of decoration you’d like to hire and do it if you want to feel really organized.

4 MONTHS TO GO: IT’S GOT REAL

In many ways, much of the more complex, headache inducing planning has been done by now, and it’s time to hone in on the finer details. This most pertinently takes the form of the purchase of your wedding rings; a symbolic moment which really brings home how close everything is. Everything you need to know about purchasing the perfect diamond wedding ring can be found here in this guide. Also, now is an opportunity to organise another jolly with the ladies in your life; the final dress fittings for you and the bridesmaids needs to happen; you don’t want to do it too early as you may fluctuate in weight. Another fun outing is the scheduling of hair and makeup trials, which need to happen soon. Don’t forget the grooms suits and also, order favors and any wedding party gifts. 

NEARLY THERE: 2 MONTHS TO GO

Final dress fittings should be happening in this time window. Apart from that, fine tuning of the big day’s ceremony timeline and readings and entertainment needs to happen. Choose the music you want people to be cutting rug to, and make a playlist if you’re not having a D.J. It’s also a good time to finalise readings and the order of service, and once that’s done, get the programs printed. If you’ve got any annoying so-and-so’s who are sitting on the fence or simply not replying, chase up the final RSVP’s. Call the venue, florist and everyone else you can think of to reconfirm the bookings.

PANIC STATIONS: 1 MONTH TO GO

If you have been following this month-by- month  wedding checklist hopefully you shouldn’t be panicking. That said, there are a few more tasks to do that you really shouldn’t leave till the week before the wedding…

Providing that there’s no anticipated tension and squabbling, arranging the seating plan can be fun. Think about having a children’s table if your having lots of younger guests and what about that not so obvious singles table? Although you may have been doing this in your head for years, you should get your wedding vows committed to paper, and if possible, memory for extra flair. The truly prepared among us will also delegate the day’s tasks to the groomsmen and bridesmaids to avoid on the day flapping and fussing.

Most importantly, it’s important to keep calm and remember that planning a beautiful wedding does not have to be hugely stressful as long as you organise everything in plenty of time.

5 IDEAL CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BUYING A MEWS PROPERTY IN 2020

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BUYING A MEWS PROPERTY IN 2020

With statistics showing that real estate will likely experience a slight upward trend in 2020, many are considering a big investment as a way to welcome in the new decade.

And guess what? Mews is in the news, with properties proud to face a peaceful, idyllic alleyway looking set to attract significant interest this year. A mews house for sale in London, in elite areas like Notting Hill or Marylebone, for instance, can attract investment due to that sense of tranquillity that they bring, all while being right in the centre of the hustle and bustle of city life. If this has got you thinking, then read on; our 5 IDEAL considerations before buying a mews property in 2020.

WINDOWS & LIGHTING 

The mews was originally designed as a place for stables at ground floor level, with living quarters above for stable servants. That design endures to this day, and as such, mews houses usually have only small windows at the front, with none at the back (specifically built to limit interaction between stablemen and their employers). However, with modern technology, these small windows are often now converted into bay windows or larger windows. It’s important to note that in such a property, a bathroom in the window is rare.

With the small rooms, window arrangement and generally lower ceilings of a mews property, lighting can be a problem; however, this can also be overcome with the help of modern lighting technology. One option, for instance, would be to add skylights to the roof to improve the flow of natural light.

GARDENS & PARKING  

Mews houses are generally built on a fairly busy road, with no garden or private outdoor space out back. Some do have terraced gardens, so do make those enquiries prior to any viewings or commitment if you’re particularly green-fingered to avoid disappointment.

What’s more, mews residences have no driveway, leading to some property owners converting the ground floor into a garage for parking. With space usually at a premium in such properties, it may be wiser to succumb to the notion of on street parking here.

“One of the benefits, however, is that the pathways are usually quiet and traffic is often quite low,” comments a spokesperson from the real estate auctioneer news provider Property Auctions.

FREEHOLD TITLE

Ownership of a mews space is a complicated business. When buying a property with such attachments, you can become the outright owner of the property and its outdoor space, with no time limit to ownership, and you can use the land for any purposes (in accordance with the local regulations) should you be acquiring a freehold title.  

Unlike leasehold properties, you’ll not be subject to further payment like service charges or admin fees. Also, the purchase and sale of freehold properties involve less paperwork, which is definitely an advantage. Seeing as value tends to increase with such freehold premises, it’s well worth reading the small print (or getting a lawyer to do so) before entering into any financial commitments. 

PRIVACY & SECURITY

Though the limitations of a mews property are obvious (the lack of space and light, relatively), the positives are also many. Often built on quiet cobbled lanes with hardly any traffic, mews properties generally benefit from heightened security and, since it’s a shared space, a sense of community often found lacking in the city. As they’re set back from a busy road, such a property strikes a fine balance between being ‘amongst the action’ and being peaceful and undisturbed by street level noise.

ALTERATIONS

Also worth noting; the planning restrictions on most mews properties are more lenient, since most of them are not listed buildings. In general (although it’s always wise to check with a solicitor first) it’s less bureaucratically restrictive to to make alterations to such houses, by adding a sliding door to create another room or even by constructing a basement, to provide more space. Of course, permission (where required) will have to be sought, but the likelihood of such permission being rejected is lessened.

Looking for the right neighbourhood in the capital to put down roots? Then check out our 5 IDEAL places to buy property in East London.

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