Though the Christmas tree has barely yet shed needles, and presents are still to be wrapped, a little part of us is already looking forward to the new year, and events of self indulgence and sartorial flair. One such occasion which pays lip service to those traditions in style is a Ladies Day out at the races. We’ve done the hard work, worn the hats, drank the fizz and sometimes backed the wrong horse, to come up with these; our 4 IDEAL ladies days in the South of England in 2020.
BATH
There are few places more beautiful at the peak of summer than the Georgian honeyed stone city of Bath. The sun glistens off the River Avon, Bath Abbey stands proud, and the cobbled streets are alive with activity. In 2020, on the 13th June, Bath Racecourse in Lansdown hosts its annual Ladies Day, and it’s one of the best events of its kind on the calendar. Though there’s no official dress code, getting dolled up is certainly part of the fun. Tickets are already on sale, and with 6’000 attendees each year, it would be wise to book well in advance!
CHELTENHAM
Arriving three months earlier in the year, from the 10th to the 13th March, is Cheltenham Festival. Ladies Day falls on the 11th (day two) of the horse racing extravaganza, and sees the Queen Mother Champion Chase as the pinnacle of proceedings. Outfits with colour and pizzazz are greatly encouraged in the Home of Jump Racing, so make sure your outfit is vibrant and eye catching! Last year’s winner was a 4/11 favourite, springing no surprises, but odds can be found online which are sometimes more favourable, with top freebet offers often yielding better ratios. Check for sign up offers and free bets accordingly.
NEWMARKET
Newmarket’s Moet and Chandon July Festival – next year taking place from the 9th to the 11th – is one of the biggest and brashest racing events on the calendar. The clue’s in the title here; there’s plenty of fizz and frivolity to be enjoyed. There’s a Best Dressed Competition, one of the highlights of Ladies Day here, and a theme within the dedicated Moet and Chandon Party next year of dressing in white with a hint of rosé; we think we can manage that!
ASCOT
The big one. The Royal Ascot racing meet takes place each June, and is one of the key events for sports and fashion loving socialites each calendar year. This year the festival is happening from the 16th to the 20th of June, with Ladies Day falling on Thursday the 18th. The dress code here is stricter than for other racing events, in the words of the official decree; ‘formal daywear when inside the Royal Enclosure…dresses and skirts should be of modest length, falling just above the knee or longer. Tops and dresses should have straps of one inch or greater’.
With the world famous Gold Cup taking place on this day, and UK bookmakers experiencing one of their most lucrative days, there really is no excuse not to go for it here.
Could someone tell ‘time’, that famously good healer, to go easy on our skin please? Because the simple passage of it, and all that entails – the late nights, the long days…life, can wreak havoc on a once glowing and youthful visage. There really is no reversing it.
And nowhere is this more apparent than our skin; forever changing, evolving and reacting to the seasons, our state of mind and, of course, the years. There are, however, a few small scale changes you can make to your everyday to keep your skin looking as radiant and perfect as it should be, specific for wherever you fall on life’s great timeline. With that in mind, here’s the IDEAL guide to following the right skincare regime for your age.
YOUR TWENTIES
This is the age to preserve and prevent. Partying on the weekends, pulling all nighters and probably drinking too much is part and parcel of our carefree twenties. Though you may feel invincible during this period, it may well take its toll on your skin. So, counteract your free and frivolous lifestyle with a good skincare regime. At this age, hydration and sun protection are your best friends. Most experts recommend hyaluronic acid for this; it works for all skin types and tone.
SPF is also essential. The skin around the eyes is one of the first to show visible signs of ageing, so wearing sunglasses is a great way to shield both your eyes and skin. Also, make sure you apply and take off your makeup correctly. The skin around the eye area is delicate and during the application of eye makeup, we tend to pull and tug at this region with abandon. As such, trying to take off products like stubborn mascara can lead to the development of fine lines.
So, moving forward, be careful with how you apply and take off makeup. If you’re not sure what to do, ask someone at a cosmetics counter who will show you how to do it correctly. And finally, if you start suffering from adult acne which is common in your twenties, use products that restore sebum balance.
YOUR THIRTIES
This is the age when you’ll start noticing a difference in your skin. Discolouration caused by skin damage or melasma, otherwise known as the pregnancy mask, will probably be your biggest skin problem. It’s time to take corrective and preventive steps are key.
In your mid-thirties, internal glycation usually starts, which at a cellular level of the skin’s structure results in wrinkling and loss of elasticity. When this occurs, or even if it doesn’t but simply as a preventative measure, it’s time to up your skincare routine and start adding actives like L-ascorbic acid, which is basically pure Vitamin C and helps brighten and firm the skin.
It’s also perfect for dull and uneven skin tones, helping to deliver a smoother complexion. Fine lines may start appearing, especially around the eyes, so use an eye cream or serum to hydrate the skin around your eyes effectively.
YOUR FORTIES
Fluctuating estrogen levels in your forties mean your skin becomes drier during this time. Accordingly, you’ll need to add lots of moisture and collagen-building ingredients like peptides, which help rebuild collagen, to your skincare routine. Also look out for products with retinoids and use SPF daily to prevent further damage. A product that is full of antioxidants that fight free radicals will also help.
This is also the age when some people try preventative botox. If you are considering this, make sure the professional who is treating you has experience at somewhere accredited like Botox clinic London. Your practitioner should be on a register which shows they have the training and skill to carry out the procedure. These registers include ‘The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic surgeons (BAAPS)’, The Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) and the ‘British Association of Cosmetic Nurses’.
YOUR FIFTIES
Moisture is magic – ok nothing is magic when it comes to reversing the signs of ageing – but in your fifties, it’s time to ramp up the moisturising even more. During this time, huge hormonal changes happen within your body, and many leave your skin prone to bouts of dryness. With estrogen levels dropping during this time, the skin’s ability to retain water also decreases. Mitigate this with a moisturising regime both on the face and by drinking much more of the good stuff, h2o, too.
Hey, with the festive season approaching, a little predictable disclaimer first; a pet is for life, not just for Christmas. With that out the way, let’s spare a moment’s thought for the animal lovers out there who can’t even stroke a dog or cat, let alone frolic with one, without breaking out in a rash and sneezing until tomorrow.
But allergies and sensitivities needn’t equate to a life spent without the joy of having pets in your life and home. Indeed, some animals are far less likely to set off a reaction than others. These are those; our 5 IDEAL home pets for people with allergies.
A BALINESE CAT
Popular wisdom recommends that bald cats are most appropriate for feline loving allergy sufferers, but there is one breed which defies this logic; the Balinese cat. This graceful, elegant cat with piercing blue eyes has a long, silky coat in beige or off white and a distinguishing plumed tail.
In general, they have a peaceful temperament but are also vocal, as if wanting to converse with their owners. Though not totally hypoallergenic, the Balinese cat produces way less of allergy causing protein Fel D1 (which is actually found in a cat’s saliva and sebaceous glands, rather than fur), and is a popular choice for pet lovers also prone to allergic reactions. That said, on the flipside, Balinese cats may benefit from cat allergy medicine, to help support their immune systems in new environments.
FISH
Sure,we’ve all heard stories of the appalling reactions caused by shellfish allergies, but in terms of pets, there really is no greater choice for allergy sufferers than fish. Experts agree that this is the most hypoallergenic pet choice by some margin. And the reasons are obvious; firstly, you’re not exactly snuggling up to this guy; neither of you would enjoy it, we think. Also, they’re surrounded by water (duh!), rendering any allergy causing elements confined to their tank, which by the way, the good guys over atAquael Aquarium UK supply affordably.
A TURTLE OR TERRAPIN
Okay, so the only, truly, guaranteed hypoallergenic pets are those who don’t shed hair, fur or dander. But you want your pet to be cute, right? Well, a turtle fits the bill perfectly. They’re also an animal with some serious longevity, lasting fifty years or more when cared for properly. Yep, this one really is for life, not just for Christmas. Though they won’t bring you out in a rash or sneezing fit, it’s important that you wash your hands after handling turtles, as they can carry salmonella.
A TARANTULA
Furry, sure. Cute? Perhaps not. But this is one ‘furry’ pet which won’t provoke any allergies in sufferers; they don’t produce that Fel D1 protein we keep mentioning. They are, indeed, totally and completely hypoallergenic. Unless, of course, you count their venom if they nip at you, which equates roughly to a bee sting in pain, but will occur very rarely and never without prior warning.
A POODLE
Who can resist those puppy dog eyes? Yep, not even a serious allergy sufferer can. And cue the sneezing and red eyes from here on in. But within the canine field, some dogs produce more of that pesky protein Fel D1 we mentioned earlier than others. Though their trademark coat requires plenty of attention and often professional grooming, they have non-shedding coats, in turn producing less dander, which carries that Fel D1. A smart choice for those allergy sufferers who simply can’t live without having a furry friend at home.
The festive season is well and truly upon us and no doubt you’ve been bombarded with toy adverts, even if you don’t have children. While there are some toys that will never go out of fashion (Playmobil and Lego, we’re looking at you) there are others that perhaps don’t quite stand the test of time so well.
Either way, and if you’re like us, the gift giving season has probably got you speculating about what a lucrative business toys are. From injection molding services to 3D printing of toys and modern marketing methods, it’s best to be well informed if you’re thinking of entering this trade. With that in mind, here are 4 IDEAL tips for starting your own toy business.
RESEARCH
There are hundreds, no, thousands, no, millions of toys out there. The first thing you need to do is research the market and validate your toy idea; to both check if it already exists elsewhere, and to see if it’s an idea which would appeal.
Overlooking the importance of conducting thorough market research is a common – and all too often fatal – mistake which aspiring entrepreneurs commit. If you want to stay ahead of the competition, commit yourself to researching the market in a depth and breadth you think preposterous on paper. By doing extensive market research, you get to know your competitors and protect yourself from investment losses. You’ll be able to determine if there is a demand for the products and services you intend to sell based on consumer responses, and also analyse the key demographics in the supply and demand chain.
GET YOUR PROTOTYPE
This is relatively simple but pretty much compulsory; send some sketches of your toy to a 3D modeller and they’ll model up the sketches to give you a prototype. Having one is vital. A lot of toys out there are fully 3-D printed, scaled, and tangible. If you are creating the prototype yourself, you may need manufacturing equipment such as industrial cameras because toys often feature very small, intricate details that are hard to see. However, another way to make toys is by injection molding.
This is a formative manufacturing process; to create a part, plastic is melted and then injected into the cavity of the mold. When the material solidifies it takes on the form of the mold. And in doing so, a prototype, or part of one, is born. For more on this complex, fascinating subject, check out these tips for choosing a prototype manufacturing service.
WRITE A BUSINESS PLAN
As the experienced team at Jeremy’s Home Store emphasise, creating a business plan is vital, no matter how small you anticipate your trade to be. An effective strategy, done with due diligence and detail, will define the total expected costs, technology required, level of marketing, staffing, and manufacturing needs …basically, everything. Within that plan, be sure to cover the two main aspects which require detailed strategising; how you intend to market your products and services and how you intend to sell them.
A detailed plan will not only assist you during the initial phase of business, but it will also act as a guide in making smart decisions that will lead to growth and development later down the line. In the toy business, those predictions of growth and any identification of expansion and diversification opportunities is vital.
MARKET, MARKET, MARKET
We don’t need to tell you that you need a website and a good online presence in this day and age. But we’re going to say it anyway; you’re going to have to go that extra mile to raise exposure of your toy online, since there are so many on the market. You’ll also need to channel the energy of more traditional marketing methods to reach maximum exposure.
The type of toy you want to create will determine your market strategies. For instance, baby toys can be shown off at baby fairs and expos. Educational toys for toddlers can be taken to child day care centres and nurseries, as well as schools. Toys for slightly older kids can be advertised on TV or actually within toy shops, with eye catching packaging or a prominent position in the display window. Play to your strengths, and you’ll be rewarded with sales.
The way we dine out has evolved significantly in the last decade, with brand new audience segments emerging from dietary preferences and trends such as veganism, as well as an increase in consumers looking to enjoy a unique experience from their evening’s eating out. What’s more, people are becoming more budget-conscious than ever. But how do companies keep up with people flocking to these new trends, and stay current in the palate of an ever-changing market? With the help of Inn Supplies, retailers of disposable catering supplies, here are 5 IDEAL ways to keep your restaurant relevant.
POP-UP SOMEWHERE
The convenience, flexibility and diversity of eating out has increased exponentially as pop-up venues began to sprout up in some of the UK’s biggest cities, and it’s fair to say that we couldn’t have imagined the current appeal of dining inside shipping containers a decade ago. But here they are, and more popular and all-encompassing than anyone could have predicted.
To catch a glimpse and enjoy a bite of this trend in the capital, head to trendy Shoreditch and enjoy a pint in Boxpark, a collection of containers serving a whole host of tasty, quick food and plenty of drinks. In Newcastle Upon Tyne, the city centre has embraced the opening of Stack in August 2018. Coined a ‘creative social hub’, the multi-functional venue houses a cracking Japanese eatery, Sushi Me Rollin’. The area, completed with regular live music and open–mic nights, is somewhere customers can relax with Indian street food and a gin and tonic while soaking up the lively atmosphere. And in Bristol, the Wapping Wharf riverside development houses several critically acclaimed restaurants inside cargo containers. Go get it.
DO A COLLABORATION OR TAKE YOUR RESTAURANT ABROAD
In a similar vein to ‘popping up somewhere’, one of the latest trends to hit the dining scene is chef collaborations. You’ll have seen it; intriguing fusion menus of two cuisines or chef styles, creating a marriage on the page for one night only, often titled ‘with friends’. This particularly works on nights of the week which would otherwise be quiet, as it offers regulars and first timers alike a chance to sample something new.
A variant of this gaining recent traction is to take your restaurant concept, team and menu abroad for a short (or occasionally lengthy) spell. Sometimes, this takes the form of just one night sharing a friend’s kitchen, or, it can represent a residency on the scale of world famous restaurant Noma’s hugely successful spells in Japan, Australia and Mexico.
MAKE YOUR MENU & SPACE INSTAGRAMMABLE
The photo sharing platform Instagram has become a notorious focal point for foodies taking the perfect snap before tucking in. Some of the most popular hashtags include #foodporn, which features in 179.9 million pictures, and #foodgasm which has been tagged 40.7 million times to date. Diners are looking for only the finest, most eclectic aesthetics, and companies have begun to take heed of this, both in their food and restaurant presentation.
If your venue isn’t ‘Insta-worthy’, then you may have difficulty securing new visitors; a sad truth of the modern dining scene. It seems that businesses in the capital have really cottoned on to the value of their visuals, if highly regarded restaurant Sketch is anything to go by. From quirky egg-shaped loos, to the iconic all-white staircases, and the multi-coloured tiles which decorate the curved ceilings, Sketch is an Instagrammers’ dream.
VEGAN TAKEOVER
More and more people are changing their dietary preferences, and the rise of veganism has been an unprecedented trend among those making the switch for health and environmental reasons.
A survey found that the number of vegans in the UK had reached 3.5 million in 2018, which is representative of the soar in consciousness towards ethics and the environmental impacts of livestock farming. Chains such as Pret a Manger have also reaped the benefits of capitalising on the vegan boom, by opening versions of their store that only sell vegan alternatives and twists on some of their classic deli options. Other restaurants are following suit, with vegan only nights designed to showcase their skills with all things plant based. We love it.
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE FOOD FESTIVALS
This is where local food producers, innovative restaurateurs and adventurous chefs meet. These broadly fall into two categories. The first offers a couple of the restaurant’s signature dishes to hungry punters (see Taste of London, Meatopia…), whilst the second is more industry centred, and facilitates an opportunity for networking, working relationship building and, let’s face it, a fair bit of drinking too. PX+ is leading the way here, and is the first official festival purely for those involved in the hospitality industry. August’s event was a roaring success, so keep an eye out for more of the same in the future.
With the rise of Instagram and other social media marketing, you’d have thought leaflet distribution marketing strategies may have been rendered redundant. Surprisingly, this isn’t the case at all. Indeed, having a marketing campaign that delves into both offline and online marketing strategies gives your business a better chance at succeeding, especially in the early stages of the company.
The DMA (Direct Marketing Association) recently released figures from a Royal Mail study on door to door leaflet distribution (or door drop marketing) to find out which sectors are most successful in leaflet distribution. With this in mind, together with Direct Letterbox Marketing, here are 5 IDEAL sectors that benefit from leaflet marketing.
LOCAL SERVICES
Perhaps you’re a local handyman, mobile nail technician or hairdresser? If so, leaflets can be a great way to get your name and number out there. According to the survey, 46% of consumers are happy to receive leaflets from local services.
This is hardly surprising – many people love to support local businesses, as it helps to bolster the local economy. Plus, there’s an element of trust in local people doing jobs for each other; if someone’s from the area, they are likely to know the variables that might impact, say, a gardening job or a DIY project double glazing window installation. You can even promote a discount to make your services competitive with larger salons or other services. Just remember you need a license to distribute them.
LOCAL EVENTS
Another local service to benefit from leafleting are local events. Leaflets are a great way to inform the community about the time and place of an upcoming event and help boost your attendance rate; remember, not everyone views or responds to social media in the same way, so it’s wise to have other options in your arsenal for promotion. After all, it’s difficult to be heard in the crowded online world, but people are always happy to hear about something to do at the weekend. EventBrite suggests you could even use custom URLs on your leaflet to track how successful your leaflet campaign has been.
RESTAURANTS AND TAKEAWAYS
If you’re anything like us, you still have a drawer of menus to peruse on a Friday night even in this modern world where it’s all available at the touch of a button and a few scrolls. Indeed, according to participants in the DMA study, 45% of people still keep leaflets in a drawer or pinned up for appetite based inspiration. For restaurants, 50% of people who took part in the study said they would be happy to receive a leaflet through the door. Keeping in touch with the previous point, local takeaways and restaurants can really benefit from flyer distribution – getting your menu, your phone number, and your prices out there is the best way to be seen.
Again, vouchers and coupons are the best way to go to ensure customers keep a hold of your leaflets – DMA noted that money-off flyers were 50% more likely to be held onto for at least a week, and 71% of consumers note that coupons and samples are useful for discovering services they need.
FMCG BRANDS
Also hugely benefiting of leaflets are FMCG brands. FMCG brands are Fast Moving Consumer Goods; think Coca-Cola and Warburtons, for example. These are products where the demand is almost always there, and the cost to produce the item is relatively low.
Campaign reported on the use of direct marketing from FMCG brands, with a quote from David Payne, head of direct marketing at the IPA:
“Most consumers think of [direct marketing] as junk mail – but that’s not true for packaged goods, where consumers actually like to receive mailings. There is usually some incentive, such as money-off vouchers, and in that sense, they don’t see it as junk.”
This effect is transferable to other services too; if you run a local bakery, for instance, you can capitalise on people’s enjoyment of supporting the local economy as well as the success enjoyed by FMCG brands like Warburtons. Offering an incentive will increase the likelihood of customers coming to your store to see what you have to offer.
RETAIL
DMA revealed that the retail sector was shown in the study to be the number one industry that sees success in leaflet distribution. According to the figures, nine out of ten customers are happy to receive regular direct mail from retailers.
Plus, the research showed that 48% of consumers visited the shop advertised. Again, money off vouchers and coupons can make an impact with leaflets, but for retail, you also have the opportunity to make a connection with your customers. Mailmen.co.uk found that 57% of people feel valued by receiving mail, andmail and doing so creates a better relationship between the consumer and the brand.
Skiing or snowboarding for the first time can be a daunting experience. It’s a high octane, thrilling sport when done right, but when you’re first stepping out on the slopes, unstable and constantly on your bottom, it can tend more towards the terror than the titillating. But don’t let that trepidation put you off; there’s a white world of adrenaline and apres-ski out there just waiting to be explored.
Should even the thought of a green slope scare you, or perhaps you feel you’re in a constant state of milk run, and you don’t know the difference between powder and slush, then fear not; here are our 5 IDEAL tips for first time ski and snowboarders.
PREPARE PHYSICALLY
Skiing and snowboarding is physically demanding, make no mistake, as a thousand crashed out apres-skiers will attest to. Even if your skiing trip is just a week long, you don’t want to curtail that time feeling tired with sore, aching limbs and knee pain. And if it’s longer, you’re going to need to be in good physical health to survive the duration. It’s simple; the fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy yourself and the lower your risk of injury. So prepare your body physically during the weeks leading up to your trip; there are a number of ski specific exercises you can do prior to your holiday, the most effective being squats, lunges and planks, for quad and core strength focus.
DON’T SKIMP ON TRAVEL INSURANCE
Skiing, snowboarding and other extreme snow sports holidays are without doubt riskier than a holiday spent relaxing on a beach somewhere with a pina colada or two in hand. Even if you take all of the necessary precautions on the slopes, a risk remains as so much of the danger is out of your hands. Indeed, between 2012 and 2016, there were 58 British deaths and 118 hospitalisations arising from skiing and snowboarding in European resorts. It’s essential, then, to have yourself sufficiently covered by a consummate travel insurance program, such as the one provided by Fast Cover, which has a dedicated snowsport policy covering not only injuries, but also equipment damage or loss.
Skiing and snowboarding is an expensive hobby and an even more expensive holiday. The equipment, bought or hired, can rack up into the hundreds, if not thousands. The chalets aren’t exactly cheap to rent, then there’s flights, apres-ski indulgence, the ski pass and any beginner’s lessons you’ll likely need to get you going.
A prudent move, to save both time and money, then, and to get the most from your trip, is to practice first on an indoor ski slope in the UK, to get familiar with the feel of the skis and the thrill of the descent. We’re fortunate enough here to have both real snow indoor slopes and dry ones.
TAKE A LESSON OR TWO FOR CONFIDENCE
If those dry runs didn’t quite give you the requisite confidence to tackle the real thing from the off, then a few beginner’s lessons on arrival are a wise move, both in terms of skills and safety. We’d caution against taking casual tips and guidance from more seasoned skiers and snowboarders within your group, and instead plump for a professional to build up your confidence. A day dedicated to getting attuned to real snow, altitude and atmosphere should set you back around €100 per day.
DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE SUN
Well known in winter sports circles, we know, but for absolute beginners, it definitely bears repeating; the mix of high altitude, reflective snow, lack of shade and a long day of being outside and exposed to the sun can lead to severe sunburn unless you take the necessary precautions. Sure, a little ski goggle tan line is inevitable, but to avoid the worst of it, avoid skiing when the sun is at its strongest, around midday, and apply suncream of a minimum factor 20 liberally and often, even under those goggles around the eyes.
Let’s be honest straight off the bat. It’s simply impossible to narrow down Malaysia’s must visit locations to just five. The culture is just so diverse, the landscape so varied, the history so intriguing, that it’s a thankless task to try. Someone, however, has got to do it, as they say. So, if you’re just starting out on arranging your Malayasian holiday adventure and you’re looking for the essential, must see destinations of the country, then read on; our 5 IDEAL places to visit in Malaysia.
MELAKA, A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Located to the south of Penang, Melaka is a hugely popular tourist destination. And for good reason; it’s a place with huge cultural heritage and history, home to the Famosa Fort, Christ Church, and many other historical landmarks. You can observe the merging influences of Asia and Europe in the multicultural heritage of the city and in its buildings, churches and fortifications. It’s also here where you can gorge on some of the finest Malaysian delicacies around, including the highly revered Nyonya cuisine. Visit Jonker Street Night Market for the very best of it.
The good news is that Melaka is easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur. Once you arrive at KL airport, it’s easy to arrange airport coach booking, or you can do it in advance, and the journey only takes around an hour and a half.
LANGKAWI SKY BRIDGE
Another major highlight of the country, this time found on the island of Langkawi in the country’s north west, is the Langkawi Sky Bridge. Towering 2300 feet above sea level, the bridge gives rise to spectacular views of the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls and rainforest below. The curved cable-stayed, pedestrian bridge was only completed in 2005, but has become a tourist favourite in the years since. Not for the faint hearted, however, visitors have to take the Langkawi Cable Car to reach the bridge, itself, but once there it’s the perfect spot for all adventure enthusiasts as well as photographers and nature lovers
Though there is a five hour train then ferry ride available, to get to the island it’s best to fly from Kuala Lumpur airport, which should only take around an hour and cost just £30.
BUKIT TINGGI
Situated in Bentong, an hour’s drive north of Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Tinggi is not a site of high-octane entertainment. Adrenaline chasers may not find what they’re looking for here. However, it’s the perfect spot for those tourists looking for a calm and peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Modelled after a French town, the place is ideal for relaxation and Zen; indeed, it’s a hugely popular location for yoga and healing retreats. Here, you can mingle with the locals and explore those cobblestone pavements lined with houses and cafes in European-style architecture, enjoy the street performances or learn how to make Japanese tea in a Japanese village. Superb.
PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS
It would be a crime to come to KL and not visit those magnificent, world famous Twin Towers. Yep, Petronas Twin Towers are the tallest twin towers in the world and boast 88 stories of glitz and glamour. The Skybridge, with a double-decker feature, connects the two towers, which are the main headquarters for Petronas, the oil and gas company. But don’t make this a trip which worships at the altar of big energy. Instead, marvel at the Islamic-inspired architecture and surrounding, beautifully maintained KLCC Park. In terms of airport transfers, at the airport take the Klia 2 to KL Sentral, shuttling you into the city in no time, and then take the KL Sentral line to KLCC. Easy.
THE AQUARIA KLCC
Housed conveniently close to those towers, if you want to visit the world’s largest aquarium, you can do so by visiting the Aquaria KLCC. This is found at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (shortened to KLCC), and here you can see more than 5000 aquatic species in this massive, world renowned aquarium. Some of those species include giant groupers, arapaimas, garfishes and many others you may not have heard of unless you’re a marine biologist.
Other attractions include bright coral fishes, scary tiger sharks, seahorses and blue rays. And check this out; if you’re a qualified diver, the aquarium offers the chance to swim with the sharks. If you don’t carry a certificate, the option to come face to face with the sea’s most frightening creature is still available in cage format. Wow. Best clean that wetsuit thoroughly when you’re done.
California has no shortage of iconic cities, that’s for sure, and the state offers a certain ideal not found elsewhere in the states; one of sunshine, surfing, sand and good times. Though San Diego doesn’t always command the same attention as state sharing friends up the Highway 101, Los Angeles and San Francisco, as the second largest city in its state, and with a laid back yet cosmopolitan charm, it’s definitely a destination worthy of a place on your itinerary.
This west coast city has more than 70 miles of shorelines, more than 250 days of sunshine, and favourable year-round temperatures. All of this adds up to a destination which makes the most of the outdoors, which a huge variety of al fresco activities on offer for visitors. With that in mind, here are 6 IDEAL outdoor day trips in San Diego, California.
SAN DIEGO BEACHES
If you’re after some fun in the sun (hey, who isn’t?) then you’re in luck; San Diego has 6 dedicated beach regions, each with a diverse setting and different offering for you to recline on. Whether you want to relax on the sand in secluded, low-key style, or you’re interested in a more upbeat vibe with watersports, vendors, outdoor events, and family-friendly entertainment, there’s a beach here to meet your needs.
Coronado Municipal Beach, accessible via the San Diego to Coronado bridge, is one of the best, offering incredible views of the vast city across the water. Pacific Beach (PB to locals) is another favourite, with a two mile stretch of sand ideally suited to family walks. For those looking to explore the scenic surroundings on two wheels, Coronado Bike Rentals is conveniently located to provide a delightful cycling experience along the beach and beyond.
SAN DIEGO ZOO
Are you a lover of animals? Inspired to learn more about nature by David Attenborough’s latest Seven Worlds One Planet? If so, you’ll relish a trip to one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, and one of the best of its kind in the world; San Diego Zoo.
Not just for kids, this zoo is home to more than 650 different species and a heavy emphasis on conservation and sustainable practices (they have led the way worldwide with their cageless exhibits designed to replicate an animal’s natural habitat). Sadly, the zoo’s most famous residents, two giant pandas named Bai-Yun and Xiao Liwu, this year left San Diego to return to China, a culmination of a decade long program of conservation and education. That the zoo continues with such efforts is reason enough to visit, we think.
SAN DIEGO BAY
If you love the open water, there’s no better place to visit on your vacation than the San Diego Bay. Here, you can learn about US history by visiting the USS Midway or Maritime Museum of San Diego. Looking for something good to eat or a great place to shop? Look no further than Seaport Village, which boasts 50 boutique shops and 13 little eateries. Our favourite? Don’t make us choose! But if you were to twist our arm, you’d find a freshly shucked oyster in our grasp, from the Harbor House, an amazing fish restaurant within the village.
And if you want to experience the bay up close and personal, then consider a boat rental at SD Adventures. You can take a 6-9 passenger speed boat out and explore the waters and surrounding attractions; just blissful when that Californian sun is shining down on you.
BALBOA PARK
If you happen to be in the downtown area of San Diego (let’s face it, at some point, you will be) then you’ll most certainly want to check out Balboa Park. Spanning 1200 acres, this park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors at its finest. There are several beautiful gardens for you to take a walk, ride a bike, or even have a picnic in. You’ll also appreciate the beautiful Spanish-Renaissance architecture throughout. It’s not just gardens here, though; Balboa Park is also home to some groundbreaking, world famous museums, such as the San Diego Museum of Art and the Fleet Science Center.
LA JOLLA
This ‘Jewel of Southern California’ is a quaint beach town located just a few minutes from downtown San Diego. The Mediterranean vibes of La Jolla call to mind a slower, more simple pace to life found in Italy or southern Spain, which may be a welcome relief from the usual ‘go big or go home’ feel of the States. While here, be sure to check out La Jolla Cove where you’ll see seals and sea lions roaming about.
If you’re looking to experience the beauty of La Jolla from a different perspective, consider embarking on a kayak adventure with La Jolla kayaking tours. Afterward, indulge in some of the finest food in the city from establishments like the Grande Colonial Hotel or Nine-Ten Restaurant. And before you leave, don’t forget to explore some of Dr. Seuss’ artwork collections at the Legends Gallery.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Just a couple of hours from San Diego, this state park is a desert lover’s paradise, especially during the spring wildflower bloom. The Visitor Center can provide information on the best places to see the flowers. Also, Anza-Borrego is a Dark Sky Community, making it an excellent place for stargazing due to the minimal light pollution.
If hiking is your thing, there are numerous trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Popular trails include the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, which leads to a native palm oasis, and the Wind Caves Trail, which features unique geological formations. There are several campgrounds within the park, as well as many primitive camping areas where you can camp for free.
Sometimes, it’s difficult not to look down at the mountain of washing up, the splashes of sauce on the walls, the burnt fingers and broken crockery and wonder if it was all worth it. Yep, home cooking can feel like a chore. But in the right hands, it can be healthy, tasty and totally worth it.
If you’re keen on more professional approach to cooking at home, then it would be prudent to, well, listen to the professionals. They happen to know a thing or two about turning your meals from car crash to ‘corrr, that’s good’. With that in mind, here are 6 IDEAL chef’s secrets to lift your home cooking to the next level.
REPLENISH YOUR SPICES REGULARLY
That ground turmeric you use to bring intrigue to a curry? Those cumin seeds you rub on your lamb? Well, if they and other spices have been sitting in your kitchen cabinet for some time, they’re almost certainly past their best. Though they may be long-lasting, they don’t have a limitless shelf-life. In fact, they can turn stale and tired tasting pretty quickly.
Replacing dried spices regularly will ensure your food stays as flavoursome as it should be. If you just can’t bear to throw away a full pot of spice, then gently dry toasting its contents in a pan will give it a bit of extra life. And where possible, use whole spices and grind them to a powder as and when required.
ROOM TEMPERATURE BEFORE, REST AFTERWARDS
Cooking meat to be as tender as possible is a tall order. In fact, much of the hard work happens before and after the actual cooking. The key to success here is to allow the meat to come to room temperature before it sees any heat, as this ensures more even cooking. It’s equally important to allow your meat to rest after cooking it, before slicing and serving. Wisdom suggests that this resting should last for as long as the cooking. Doing so will mean all those lovely meat juices (equals; flavour) remain in the animal and aren’t lost all over your chopping board.
MAKE STOCKS & SAUCES FROM SCRAPS
Too many amateur cooks (surprisingly, some professionals too) put their unused scraps of vegetables into the compost pile or even the bin. However, any diligent, conscientious chef would use all those discarded bits and peelings to make something delicious.
Most commonly, these items can make the backbone of all great cooking; a stock. Carrot butts, onion ends, parsley stems, broccoli and cauliflower bases, and celery leaves all work wonderfully to create a fantastic vegetable stock for making sauces and soups. Just add sufficient water so that the scraps are completely covered, allow the mixture to simmer for around 45 minutes, then strain.
The same goes for scraps of meat; these can be used to make a super tasty reduction to give body and flavour to a gravy, jus or sauce. On that note, check out our 6 IDEAL tips on how to make gravy here.
ROTATE BAKED GOODS HALFWAY THROUGH COOKING
If you find your cakes, brownies and muffins don’t always cook evenly, the answer may well be to follow the professionals’ lead and rotate them in the oven halfway through their cooking time. It’s such a simple step but one which remedies a whole lotta baking inconsistency. Whatever it is that you’re baking, simply turning the pan or tray around partway through the process will resolve the problem, as pockets of ovens can be much hotter than other areas. This works even if you have a convection oven.
DEVELOP A PROFESSIONAL MINDSET
Though you don’t have to dress like a chef to cook like one, getting in the mindset of a chef is perhaps the best thing you can do to improve your home cooking. Two tenets of professional cooking which are so important; one, to always work clean, and two, prepare well in advance (to have your ‘mis en place’ ready, in chef’s parlance). It’s also beneficial to have the right tools for the job, such as sharp, task appropriate knives and even a good quality chef’s apron to keep you looking pristine even if your cooking is falling apart!
Ask any furniture aficionado to name a piece they consider an icon, and we wouldn’t be surprised if a classic wingback chair was the first item to leave their lips. Indeed, when it comes to favourite furniture styles and designs, the wingback chair has established pride of place in so many homes.
It’s easy to see why; wingback chairs have a distinctive and elegant look and appeal, and they are undoubtedly comfortable as well. So, if you’re looking for a unique chair which serves its function as well as operating as a statement piece, then the choice is obvious. With that in mind, here are 4 IDEAL reasons to invest in a wingback chair today.
A DESIGN CLASSIC
Wingback chairs are, without doubt, a design classic. Having been around since the 17th century, and maintaining popularity since, they have that quintessentially elegant look which lends class and chic to any room they grace. A wingback chair can be differentiated from other chairs (such as a standard armchair) with its high and solid back, as well as its wooden legs and ‘winged’ sides. And while a classic or standard armchair is a popular addition to a living room, wingback chairs represent a choice which carries a little more personality and charm.
COSY & COMFORTABLE
Wingback chairs are also known for their comfort; no piece of furniture is quite so inviting to sink into. Wondering why that might be? Well, wingback chairs were specifically designed with comfort in mind. The actual wing design of the chair’s sides was designed to capture the comfort and warmth which comes off the fireplace, keeping that heat in, and blocking draughts simultaneously.
And despite their traditional, often well-worn appeal, wingback chairs can be surprisingly supportive for those who worry about their posture. As the guys at Ergo Tune AU, who sell comfortable ergonomic chairs, tell us, wingback chairs are able to create a sense of sitting in a cocoon whilst keeping your back straight and upright.
Yep, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of curling up in a wingback chair on a cold winter’s night and savouring its warmth. Any decent British pub’s prime position is testament to this; a wingback chair in front of a fire, preferably with dog curled up by your feet and a selection of newspapers to hand. Bliss!
ELEGANCE PERSONIFIED
Another brilliant aspect which distinguishes wingback chairs from other places where you might park your bottom is their elegance, especially if they’re made with leather upholstery. Leather wingback chairs are exceptionally stylish and fit equally well with contemporary and traditional living rooms and other spaces, although you can opt for pieces with linen upholstery if that suits your tastes more succinctly. Indeed, wingback chairs today need not be hefty affairs, either – wingback chairs which are lighter and sleeker are also available, making them perfect even for smaller rooms. There really is no reason not to.
A VERSATILE CHOICE
As already mentioned, you can place wingback chairs in just about any room in your place and it will fit right in, making friends with the neighbouring sofa and exchanging pleasantries with the bookshelf. Though wingback chairs are more commonly found in living areas and family rooms, we think they bring a real elegance to the bedroom, too, making the most of the room and creating a space which is relaxing to hang out in, rather than simply offering the functionality of sleep.
Hey, since you’ve arrived here, let us first say congratulations on your new home! That was one hell of a slog; of paperwork, stress, doubt and hope. You have successfully made the move, finished unpacking, rearranged the new furniture, looked after the interiors, and made things feel homely. Phew, breathe a sigh of relief and once you’ve done that, it’s finally time to celebrate.
Housewarming parties are a great way to take a break after the stress of moving and unpacking. Not to forget, they also provide an excellent opportunity to interact with your new neighbours. Traditionally, such parties are low-key affairs, with new homeowners not wanting red wine spilt on the carpet before they’ve even bedded in. But they can be as fancy as you want — after all, it’s your house and your party. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL tips for throwing an awesome house warming party.
WAIT A FEW WEEKS
You’ve just had the stress and expense of moving house, do you really want the stress of throwing a party for your nearest and dearest straight away? And the inevitable clean up both before and after the event? Sounds like a nightmare to us. Instead, wait until your house has warmed up a little, until you’ve settled in properly. Friends and relatives won’t want to see the house as a shell anyway, and when you’ve made the house your own with decorations and unique flourishes, it’ll be a more interesting prospect for a party. So, bide your time.
DON’T FORGET TO INVITE YOUR NEIGHBOURS
Yep, people can be forgotten, ignored or deliberately excluded when you’re drawing up a guestlist dependant on the size of your house. But a housewarming party presents a golden opportunity to get acquainted with your neighbours and cement bonds which could last decades. Having a close relationship with those living close to you can be incredibly useful; allies who’ll water your plants and feed your pets while you’re away, and lend a cup of sugar and piece of advice while you’re there and in need. At best, new lifelong friendships will be formed. And at the very least, you’ll establish a little tolerance of late night noise in the future.
CONSIDER A THEME
Sure, the overarching theme of celebrating your new house is already written and in stone. But once you’ve shown guests around, discussed your settling in process and had a little moan about the move, well, where does that leave you? A static, stale atmosphere if you don’t take the bash bulldog by the horns and guide it. A theme can create a fun, boisterous and immersive environment that can help people feel comfortable quicker; ideal when there’ll likely be guests from all walks of life attending.
So, pick a theme, and decide music and decorations accordingly. Consider getting props in for the event from companies like Spur Creative, who have a wide selection of high-quality props, sculptures and structures, if you really want to go all out. Alternatively, opt for something simple like a cheese and wine night. Just make sure you alert guests to the theme before they arrive.
DEEP CLEAN PRIOR TO THE PARTY
If you’ve just moved in and are still living out of your suitcase, or even if you’ve done your best to fill your wardrobe and pack out your cupboards, a little dust and debris is inevitable after the big move. So, once that dust has settled and before you host guests, consider hiring a professional cleaning service for a deep clean prior to the party. This will, of course, not only benefit the event itself, but will serve your house well for a good while after. Or, you could pull on those rubber gloves and do it yourself, should you have time. Check out our 5 IDEAL ways to take the hassle out of cleaning over here for some advice!
BE PREPARED FOR TOURS
Guests will undoubtedly want to examine every last nook and cranny of your home (it is a housewarming party, after all) and they will, of course, be expecting a tour. This may get repetitive since everyone will arrive at different times, and hence, you’ll have to be prepared to give a few tours. Make the experience interesting rather than going through the motions. Furnish them with anecdotes related to the move, the home decor and backstory intricate pieces of furniture. Doing so will inject personality and love into the event.
Loneliness among the elderly is one of our country’s rarely discussed national crises. In the UK there are at least 1.2 million chronically lonely older people and that figure is only set to rise with continuing government cuts in social care. Shocking stuff indeed. But rather than inaction and the usual shrugging of the shoulders, there are a number of opportunities out there for the elderly to socialise, if they’re able. Here’s just a few ideas; our 6 IDEAL ways to improve your social life in old age.
VOLUNTEER
Although retirement is supposed to be a break from work, it can also represent a sudden change and a bit of a shock to the social system. A straight shift from working five days a week to zero can often lead to boredom and loneliness. Volunteering for a charity or working a part-time job could be an answer to this, enabling older folk to meet new people through volunteering, often in a similar age range to their own. It’s also a good way to fend off dementia and other illnesses, as it keeps the brain stimulated and body active, whilst also supporting the local community or a charity. Bravo.
Making regular plans to meet up with friends or family is essential to avoiding feelings of loneliness; having that name scribbled and secured on the calendar can provide that all important ‘something to look forward to’ which can mean so much to people with a little more time on their hands. Perhaps the best way is to set a fixed day, each and every week, where a visit occurs, even if it’s just for a coffee or lunch. The little things can mean so much.
JOIN A CLUB
Joining a club or a group is a brilliant way to improve your social life. With most running weekly, it’s a great way to make and see friends regularly, and secures another spot on the calendar so important at keeping a sense of despondency at bay. Here are a few ideas:
Arts and Crafts: For anyone who enjoys working with their hands, an arts and crafts club could be perfect. Whether you’re shy or outgoing, this type of activity allows a gentle focal point around which socialising can revolve. It’s also not half bad for dexterity. Arts and crafts clubs can cover a wide variety of activities, such as making antique jewellery with a personal touch, sewing or painting.
Senior Swimming: Senior swimming sessions are held at nearly all pools nationwide weekly, and give the opportunity to both keep fit and socialise; two essentials for anyone in old age. If swimming isn’t appealing to you, there are many other sports and activities that will keep you moving and socialising, such as golf, bowls or simply a walking club.
Lunch Clubs: Exactly what it sounds like — a group who meet up weekly to share lunch and chat; and that sounds good to us! A lunch club encourages conversation over various topics, such as hobbies, politics, or even your new favourite book, and the nourishment of a lovely meal cooked for you certainly does no harm either.
Choir: Joining a choir has been said by Oxford University to be hugely beneficial to health and happiness. What’s more, choirs are great places to socialise, with most having out-of-hour socials and events. Often church-based, there are many other activities and volunteering opportunities within the church, especially for the elderly.
CONSIDER A FLUFFY COMPANION
A dog doesn’t only provide domestic companionship, they also allow for ice breakers when taking them for a walk, and the obvious exercise which that brings, too. If the pressure of owning and caring for a dog is too much, then try doing some dog walking as a part time job or hobby instead. Check in with your local RSPCA centre, who offer dog walking and handling for those struggling with loneliness. Lovely stuff!
GET GREEN FINGERED
How exactly does growing vegetables stop feelings of loneliness? It’s actually the interaction with the other owners and farmers at the allotment which gives the opportunity for socialising, and also gives a much needed reason to leave the house to tend to your crops. There are also the added benefits of regular exercise from digging topsoil and lifting growbags and watering cans, which offers that all important active side which all good hobbies for the elderly should provide. Allotments often require two or three visits each week; a great excuse to get out there and amongst it, we think.
We’ve all had those days. Where we’ve considered hurling the alarm clock at the wall and refusing to go into the work on the basis that your bed is just too darn comfortable. However, when a latent desire to stick it to the man turns into real dread about going into work, then it’s time to look at the issue a little more seriously.
Indeed, conflict can have an impact on your physical and mental health, as well as your career and relationships, so for the sake of your wellbeing, it’s best to be well informed about how to tackle this problem should it arise. With that in mind, here are 4 IDEAL ways to handle conflict within the workplace.
IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM
You won’t know how to successfully deal with the conflict if you haven’t fully faced up to and acknowledged it exists. Maybe you just get a bad vibe when you arrive at work and feel a bit weird all day, like there’s something in the atmosphere. Or maybe you know exactly which co-worker is the cause of your chagrin every single day of the week because they keep using your favourite coffee mug. Rather than passive aggressively labelling that mug, try to dial down into the root cause of the issue. Only by determining its existence and seriousness can you decide on the correct cause to follow.
DON’T HESITATE TO GET LEGAL ADVICE IN EXTREME CASES
There’s general workplace tension, of which every office suffers, and then there are life-changing altercations, such as dismissals or redundancy. Should the latter have occurred, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to deal with this alone, and you can find the right settlement agreement advice to guide you through the process – because the last thing you want when dealing with this conflict is to have to fight your corner alone.
SPEAK WITH A SENIOR STAFF MEMBER
Nobody likes a grass, but at the end of the day, if the conflict is preventing you from doing your job properly, or affecting your wellbeing overall, then it needs to be handled professionally and not ignored.
All companies or workplaces should have a designated senior team member, whether it’s a team leader, supervisor or manager, and one who is always open to communication and trust. If you don’t have anyone like that in your establishment, firstly, question their process, since they’re most likely breaking the law. If they show such disdain for their employees, then it might be time to look for a company that does value your opinion.
ADDRESS THE PERPETRATOR
This might take a lot of guts, but it’s worth it if such an action results in solving the problem. You will undoubtedly feel a whole load better for tackling the issue head-on and speaking your mind. Confrontation doesn’t have to mean worsening the situation; be sure to speak calmly and openly, and not in an accusatory way. Your nemesis may even respect your decision to raise the issue and get things sorted.
With only three weeks of this sometimes gloomy decade left, and the weather outside currently even gloomier, there’s something very soothing about casting minds forward to our much anticipated holidays of 2020. Because we all need a bit of escapism in our lives, right? Next year, villa holidays with a focal point on the glorious, shimmering Mediterranean sea look set to be very much in vogue. And it’s easy to see why; warm, golden sun and sands, water perfectly temperate, diverse and delicious cuisines making the most of the Med’s bounty, and properties best enjoyed as a big, convivial group of family or friends…if this is how a new decade starts, then sign us up! With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL villa holiday destinations on the Med in 2020.
DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
Narrowing down the best places to visit in 2020/2021 is a hard task, however topping our list is Dubrovnik. Croatia’s astronomic rise as a premier European holiday destination with villas to match shows no signs of slowing down in 2020. And Dubrovnik is perhaps the jewel in the ascendant country’s crown. Legendary Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw put it better than we ever could when he implored intrepid travellers that ‘those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik’. The walled city which gazes out over the Adriatic Sea, and its old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) with its iconic orange roofs, is simply dazzling.
It’s an upmarket place to visit, which oozes class without being gaudy; celebrity fans of the city such as Jay Z, Beyonce, Tom Cruise and Catherine Zeta-Jones among others are known to visit. And the food is simply top-notch; if there’s a better fritto misto (small fish such as anchovy, whitebait and calamari, lightly dusted in flour and fried) then we haven’t tried it.
SICILY, ITALY
Still incredibly untouched by tourism and untapped by influencers, Sicily is a place seemingly untroubled by the worst affectations of the modern world. Though one of Mediterranean Europe’s least affluent, the island is rich in many, many other ways. Boasting beaches of white sand, gravity-defying rock formations, an incredible, unique cuisine – check out our guide to some of the best food in Sicily here – and a hugely loaded history, Sicily is set to be one of the hottest tourist destinations of 2020. What’s great about the island is that it’ll take the acclaim in its stride and remain proudly Sicilian, with none of the tourist baiting which can afflict a place of such obvious beauty.
While you’re visiting, make sure you take in Syracuse, an ancient Greek city and World Heritage Site, home to amphitheatres and history abundant. In fact, the island houses several Greek temples, with Agrigento, Selinunte and Segesta all boasting spectacular architecture of the time. And the beaches? Oh, the beaches; Sicily has more than 1000km of coastline, meaning a deserted stretch of sand is never far away. Our favourite? Probably San Vito Lo Capo in Trapani, a crescent-shaped beach and lagoon with the charming village of Monte Monaco overlooking it. And if you’re after Instagram worthy shots (but sshhh, don’t spoil the secret), the Turkish Steps of Agrigento have to be seen to be believed.
KAS, TURKEY
The Turkish seaside town of Kas is bohemian, blissful and blessed with unbridled beauty. It manages to be accessible, laid back and amenity-rich without losing its soul to excessive tourism. We see a big year ahead for the town. It’s particularly famous for scuba diving, with boat trips for hire shipping keen divers and snorkelers to nearby waters around the Turquoise Coast. Indeed, there are 30 recognised dive sites within just 30 minutes of the town. Perhaps the most fascinating is the ruins of sunk cargo plane the Dakota, at just 22m is achievable even for diving intermediates.
The central town, walkable, pedestrianised and utterly charming, is perhaps the highlight. There’s a chilled out vibe here, with shisha bars, coffee shops and a few places for a cold beer lining the cobbled streets. The food is excellent, too; freshly made, charcoal grilled flatbreads make a wonderful snack. Or lunch. Or dinner. We love the spicy lamb mince lamachans, and the filled breads (spinach, fresh cheese, minced beef…take your pick) named Gozleme. Best of all, though, but not for the faint hearted, is kokorec; a super spicy wrap filled with lamb intestine. Heaven. Grilled fish straight from the med and onto the grill in hours is also hugely popular here; the restaurant Nereid does superb bream and octopus.
Oh, and don’t forget to have a raki or two to send you on your way, a clear Turkish brandy similar to ouzo, enjoyed straight on the rocks, which cause it to turn a cloudy hue. Raise a toast to a new decade here; cheers!
CORFU, GREECE
Urbane, cosmopolitan and diverse, Corfu could stake a rightful claim to be the Greek island with the most fascinating history. Shaped by the British, French and Venetians, it manages to assimilate these varied influences whilst retaining its Greek and uniquely Corfiot soul.
The second largest island in the Ionian Sea simply has so much to offer. It all has to begin in the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre which boasts churches of intriguing Venetian/Greek architectural influence, as well as the Esplanade – a huge, grassed square – and the world famous Old Fort, the 16th century citadel whose majesty defines the island.
Also well worth the effort of exercise is Mount Pantokrator, the island’s tallest peak, which offers incredible views of Corfu below and onto other islands in the distance. And of course, being a Greek island, there are beaches by the bucketload; the village Palaiokastritsa boasts a bay of real beauty, and Myrtiotissa is a beach proudly unspoilt by crowds or tourism – accordingly, it’s also proudly nudist. April 30th to 4th May 2020 sees Corfu’s annual Beach Festival – if you are to visit, make sure it’s during this celebration of sand, surf and sea.
SITGES, SPAIN
Anywhere which manages to be nicknamed as both ‘Ibiza in miniature’ and ‘the Saint Tropez of Spain’ is alright by us. We think 2020 is going to agree. Sitges, nestled in the Mediterranean basin just an hour south of Barcelona, is Europe’s premier party destination you may not have even heard of. A resort town famed for its beautiful beaches, cornucopia of carnivals and clubs, and year round festival atmosphere, it is perhaps most renowned for hosting two of Spain’s (and Europe’s) biggest gay friendly parties.
The first is Sitges Carnival, Spain’s most revered and raucous, which will next year occur from February the 18th to the 26th. It’s one of the world’s most celebrated Mardi Gras events going is hugely popular with the LGBTQ+ community. A no holds barred, week long fiesta of fancy dress and frivolity, peaking with the Rua de la Disbauxa (‘The Debauchery Parade’), 2020 is set to see its biggest year ever. The second, and next year in its eleventh, is Sitges Gay Pride, which is happening from the 3rd of June to the 7th, and sees the town decked out in rainbow flags and packed to the rafters. If you’re planning on visiting this hotter than hot destination during either of these times, make sure to book well advance as things get busy.
If you’d prefer to see this rising star of the Mediterranean destination scene at a more peaceful time, then Autumn, particularly September, sees the most temperate climate and laid back vibes at their most resplendent, a welcome respite after all the partying of summer has cooled off. The two museums of Cau Ferrat – the iconic Spanish artist – and Maricel – which houses some incredible sculpture, are definitely worth a visit.
