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4 IDEAL ROOFTOP BARS IN THE MIDWEST, USA, TO CHECK OUT TODAY

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4 IDEAL ROOFTOP BARS IN THE MIDWEST, USA, TO CHECK OUT TODAY

If there’s one thing Midwestern American’s love more than enjoying a libation or two, it’s being able to do so while admiring the views of their local area. And who can disagree with them? Nothing quite confirms you’ve made it like having an Old Fashioned in one hand while the other sweeps theatrically across the vista. ‘Look at us’, indeed.

As any Brit who has traversed the States will know, it’s not exactly miniature and narrowing things down to a decent drink and a decent view can be tough. But we’re here to help, with these; our 4 IDEAL rooftop bars in the Midwest, USA, to check out today.

BRIT’S PUB DOWNTOWN, MINNEAPOLIS  

Having been in business for over 25 years, Brit’s Pub Downtown has earned Midwest legend status in the world of rooftop bars. It’s often described as being the worst kept secret in Minneapolis, having become a well-loved feature among tourists as well as locals. In fact, they’re so popular that they won the respected Pub Of The Year award for 2019. 

When you look at the sheer scope of ambition this pub boasts, it’s easy to see why. With a capacity stretching to over 2000 people in good weather, they’ve made expert use of their space, with an all-grass bocce ball area and football (sorry, soccer) pitch taking up much of the outside space. True to the name, you’ll find them showing Premier League matches inside, where they have an overflow venue in case of unexpected summer showers or cold winter nights where you can warm up in front of the fire. Talk about putting your best foot forward!

THE UP ROOM, CHICAGO 

Considered to be one of the best rooftop bars in all of Chicago, according to CoolThingsChicago, this intimate space has a big reputation to live up to. With room for just 35 people, it’s certainly not as grand as some other rooftop options in the Midwest, but this was a purposeful move aimed to create a warm, intimate space for guests. It works.

The décor isn’t the only thing this place has going for it, though; aside from the innovative, award winning cocktail menu, the Up Room is also in a prime location in downtown Chicago, giving you great views of the city around you, panoramic style. In the winter, this view can be viewed from 360-degree angles from inside the glass walls, while in the summer many enjoy getting out on the patio terrace to take things in properly and breathe in some of that windy air. It’s impossible not to be blown away (not literally of course).

360, ST. LOUIS 

Located almost 400 feet above downtown St. Louis atop the centrally-located Hilton Hotel, this rooftop bar is a must-see. And you must see it, the views are incredible. Unsurprisingly, the name 360 comes from the view you receive of the city below, with the ability to take in the sweeping views in all directions. This wonderous view includes a birds’ eye view right into the Busch Stadium, if sports are your thing. 

Being so close to a stadium, this location does get extremely busy on game days, so it’s best to arrive as close to its opening time of 4 PM as you can, if you plan to visit on one of these days and actually watch some baseball being played. 

Although its views are the main focal point of this location, they’re not the only thing going for 360; they also have an extension wine, beer and cocktail selection, and a delicious dinner menu. They do Cajun and Creole food, including lobster roll, fish tacos and beignets, just brilliantly. Now that’s the kind of drinking food we can raise a glass to.

DRUNKEN FISH, KANSAS CITY 

Located in the heart of Kansas City in its Power & Light District, Drunken Fish will provide wonderful 360-degree views no matter what time of day you visit. During the day, you’ll get to watch the bustling city below, and at night, you can enjoy a thousand bright lights of the City of Fountains first hand.

This isn’t the only thing that makes this bar stand out, however; unlike other rooftop experiences offering very minimal food options, this venue makes feeding you well their priority. With luxurious three-course meals on their menu in addition to a wide array of alcoholic beverages, this is as close as you can get in the Midwest to a Las Vegas rooftop experience (check this article to see what we mean). In fact, their sushi and Japanese small plates have a sterling reputation.

With four different locations around the Midwest, their Kansas City venue has been voted 435 Magazine’s Best Rooftop Bar. We might just have to agree.

 

6 IDEAL GIFTS FOR CHRISTMAS 2019 

Editorial Team
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6 IDEAL GIFTS FOR CHRISTMAS 2019 

Christmas is coming, and it’s time to start thinking about presents and celebration ideas for the holiday season. This year, a little imagination goes a long way, we think. So instead of falling back on all your tried-and-tested gift and celebration ideas, why not try something a little different this year? If you’re after the best gifts for him or for her in the UK right now, as well as a little celebration to get you in the Christmas spirit, then read on; our 6 IDEAL gifts for Christmas 2019.

PERSONALISED SLOGAN APRONS

You and your family probably do more cooking over Christmas and the winter season than at any other time of the year, right? It’s crucial, therefore, to do it in style.  Achieving sartorial splendour in the kitchen isn’t always easy, but with personalised aprons, there’s hope yet. 

What’s great about these personalised numbers and other personalised Christmas gifts available is that you can custom the present specifically for its intende. You can choose the words that appear on them and often the style, colours and aspects of design. Many custom apron services allow you to write whatever you want, from your name, a funny joke, or even the family motto (if you have one, that is). So, this year, when you’re elbows deep in the turkey, with roast spuds surrounding you and gravy in your pockets, at least you’ll be doing so looking clean and cool.

THE LOCAL PANTO OR BALLET

Give the gift of entertainment this Christmas. Going to see a pantomime is one of the best ways for you and your family to celebrate the Christmas season, get into the spirit, and have fun. It’s worth pointing out, however, that you don’t have to stick with the local panto at the village hall. This year, why not strike out, arrange a trip to London and enjoy the city looking at its finest, twinkling lights and all. This year, the Nutcracker is being performed by English National Ballet at London Coliseum. Or, the London Palladium is hosting Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Sounds like a magical evening to us.

A WEEKEND AWAY WITH A CHRISTMAS MARKET

Christmas, of course, isn’t just a time for gift-giving; it’s also a chance for you to get out there and amongst it, seeing the lights, drinking the mulled wine and enjoying the buzz of the season.

So, consider Christmas market tour and get you into the spirit of the season, a gentle, enjoyable reminder of the generosity of this most wonderful time of the year. You can visit stollen and cheese food stalls that are doing their darndest to make you festively plump, boutiques offering decorations, and stalls where you can pick up seasonal treats for enjoying back at home.

Check out our IDEAL guide to England’s best Christmas markets over here.

WHISKEY TASTING SET 

In the bleak midwinter, when frosty winds may moan, there’s nothing better than curling up in front of the fire with a cup of hot toddy full of festive flavours. You can always turn to a hot toddy to warm you up, or a whiskey on the rocks for that matter, if the ‘hot’ part isn’t your thing. Indeed, if there was a season to enjoy the soothing warmth of whisky, it has to be Christmas. That’s why whiskey tasting sets are the ideal gift for whiskey connoisseurs this Christmas. The beauty of this is that you get several small bottles of whiskey and a set of tasting cards to go with them. You’re able to try different products side by side, refine your palate and reflect on which you like. Lovely stuff.

A TRIP TO OXFORD STREET

It can be hard to know what to buy someone for Christmas. So why not take them on a shopping trip instead? Oxford Street at Christmas can be quite a magical sight and has some of the most spectacular Christmas lights in London. Wandering down the street and admiring the seasonal window displays lining will certainly get you in the festive mood. Indeed, Retailers go out of their way over the Christmas season to dress their windows beautifully and entice customers. One of the best places to take the family is Selfridges in London, a department store with a long history of spectacular displays. Selfridges usually dedicates an entire floor to Christmas, allowing customers to get up close and personal with stunning displays and exotic gifts.  

A STAR THEATRE PLANETARIUM 

Bring the outdoors in this Christmas with a star theatre planetarium. While, the idea of purchasing a planetarium as a gift set might seem, frankly, a little out of the budget range of most families, but actually, it’s more affordable than you might think. Indeed, you can pick up a planetarium (essentially a projector that recreates the night sky in your living room) for less than £150. 

A planetarium is, by all measures, a unique gift. What’s more, it’s something that the entire family can enjoy. All you do is switch it on, and the projector device will cover the walls and the ceiling with stars, planets, asteroids and nebulas. You can then use it as a gift for the kids to educate them (and older ones for that matter) about the size and scale of the universe; a thrilling thought for the little ones. Could some alien species on another planet be celebrating their version of the holidays right now too? 

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5 IDEAL STEPS TO START UP SUCCESS

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5 IDEAL STEPS TO START UP SUCCESS

Though the ratios and time frame often vary, the overall message is always the same; the majority of start up businesses fail within a few years of opening. According to a recent report, about 60% of 660,000 new businesses registered every year in the UK fail within three years, and 20% last for 12 months. These businesses generally fail due to several, interconnected factors, such as the lack of market for products and services, low cash flow, and poor management skills. 

So, before you begin your next venture, a little planning and preparation is essential. Whether you’re starting a home-based baking business, an IT company or anything in between, here are 5 IDEAL steps to start up success.

CREATE A SOLID BUSINESS PLAN

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 assist you during the initial phase of business only, but it will also act as a guide in making smart decisions that will lead to growth and development later down the line. 

RESEARCH THE MARKET

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.  

Workers Compensation

PRIORITISE BUSINESS INSURANCE

For start-ups, unexpected risks can lead to premature business closure. To avoid such events from occurring, it’s prudent to invest in the best insurance coverage available (within your budget, of course). Fortunately, there are different types of business insurance options suitable for all firms and budgets. Before settling on any insurance plan, make sure to factor in your business structure along with the current and future needs of the organisation.

According to Cerity.com, buying the right insurance allows you to work smarter – not harder – while protecting your business from liabilities. In short, insuring your start-up can save you thousands of pounds in terms of legal costs and worker’s compensation should something go wrong. 

SELF-FINANCE YOUR START-UP

With only a small percentage of lenders willing to offer loans to a new business, accessing funds to get things going can be a real obstacle. Besides, securing credit can involve high-interest rates which may lead to high debts and, eventually, business closure. The best option for any start-up – if you have the luxury of course – is self-financing, as you will stay in control of investments and, in turn, your company. There are also other ways to self-finance a business apart from personal savings and funds from friends or family, so consider these before the process of planning truly begins. 

ESTABLISH A GREATER ONLINE PRESENCE

With 45% of the world (a whopping 3.48 billion) now having a social media account and millions scrolling through their feeds at any given moment, it would be financial suicide not to be harnessing the power of the click, constantly and consistently. While there are plenty of paid options to promote your business on social media, you should only do so with scrupulous tracking of analytics to assess whether the reach of such posts is worth your investment. You might find that you could achieve the same reach via free social media channels; making an Instagram and Facebook page (we all have one, right?) is easy and needn’t cost you a penny. Just ensure your page is captivating and unique, as there’s a pretty massive crowd out there to stand out from. 

5 IDEAL WAYS TO ADD PERSONALITY AND STYLE TO YOUR KITCHEN

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO ADD PERSONALITY AND STYLE TO YOUR KITCHEN

The best kitchens chanel style and grace. They fuse fun, functionality and family seamlessly. The worst well, they come completely void of personality and are places no one wants to spend time in. Unfortunately many kitchens in modern households are the latter, offering cold identikit spaces from the pages of an ikea catalogue. We’re firm believers that a room’s characteristics can reflect their owner’s. Make yours a focal point for all the right reasons, with these; our 5 IDEAL ways to add personality and style to your kitchen.

BRING THE WORLD TO YOUR KITCHEN

Yep, we said personality, and nothing tells your own unique story more than by displaying items which you’ve accumulated on your travels. But while souvenirs are usually just visual items, redundant for any actual purpose, the great thing about kitchen items bought abroad is that they are functional, too. In fact, they can both bring aesthetic appeal and improve your cooking. Some of the items which best complement both those aspects include a pestle and mortar from South East Asia, ideal for grinding spices and pounding curry pastes in the most authentic (see: delicious) way possible, a tagine from Morocco, or a pasta maker from Italy. All show off your inquisitive, well travelled personality, as well as having an ornamental quality.

SPLASH IT BACK

Sure, you can get a certain aspect of your personality across by displaying bolognese splashes on the kitchen wall and turmeric powder on the chopping boards, but perhaps it’s not one to advertise proudly. Instead, why not marry the practical with the visually appealing by adding a  kitchen splashback.

These sit on the wall behind the stove and come in easily wipeable materials to avoid those stains from the home cook’s enthusiastic stirring and flipping. But, they can also evoke a sense of style. Show adventurousness with bold, statement coloured acrylic splashbacks, or go for a mirrored version to give the impression of space, add brightness and bring in more light. You could even think about a metallic splashback to evoke the industrial look so beloved of on-trend restaurants right now.

REFERENCE ART

Show off your skills as a conscientious chef by displaying your cookbooks proudly (but tidily) in the kitchen. Colour coordinate, arrange by size and position thoughtfully to make it look visually pleasing as well as useful to reference when you’re wondering how to save that hollandaise. But don’t stop there; add other flourishes of reference material in place of art. You could hang pictures that tastefully, displaying which fish and vegetables are currently in season, showing guests that you cook and eat with the seasons, and pair ingredients thoughtfully. Or, really dial down on your family’s unique history by framing an old recipe written by a grandmother, for the ultimate touch of reference art mixed with that magic personal touch.

OPEN PLAN SHELVING

Though clutter is the enemy of good kitchen flow and therefore, great cooking, there is sometimes a danger of going the opposite way, and having a kitchen which is too tidy and ends up looking clinical. Like we said before, personality is found in those trinkets you’ve collected on your travels and esoteric ingredients you use. Display them proudly but retain a sense of order with open plan shelving.

When deployed with a keen eye for detail and ratio, your kitchen will appear larger than it is, whilst in the process adding a little visual intrigue. This enables both aesthetic benefits and functional ones. You can proudly display that awesome, intriguing crockery you own, as well as your sourdough starter and pickles you’re working on. And, items are easier to reach when your hands are full with cooking. So, that’s no more fumbling with drawers and cupboard doors with messy hands, searching for a whisk. Or whisky. It just makes sense, right?

GREENER CREDENTIALS

Take this tip in two ways. That fresh and natural feel synonymous with great ingredients and simple, homely cooking? Harness that energy before anyone’s even tasted your famous watercress soup by introducing plants and cut flowers to your kitchen space. You could even dot them around that open plan shelving which we mentioned earlier, to really add notes of calm, soothing nature.

But an even more vital channeling of the ‘going green’ ethos is lessening the environmental impact of your kitchen where you can. Though it’s certainly no glamorous, adding recycling bins and banishing plastic in favour of beeswax and brown paper, as well as having your own herbs growing on the windowsill, will speak volumes about the climate conscientious owner of the kitchen. Now that’s the type of personality you should be advertising.

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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR MOVING TO ITALY FROM THE UK

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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR MOVING TO ITALY FROM THE UK

La dolce vita. The sweet life. That sounds pretty good to us right now, with things on home turf so bitter. Amazingly, hazy and lazy days of fresh pasta and cheap, drinkable wine under the Mediterranean sun don’t have to be a sepia-tinged pipe dream. Indeed, moving to the continent, even with Brexit on the horizon, is eminently achievable. It just takes a little foresight and planning, and an acceptance of some bureaucracy, to make it happen. Here’s a start; our 5 IDEAL tips for moving to Italy from the UK.

VISA LAW

Bloody Brexit. We’d love to hear no more of it. Unfortunately, regardless of whether we end up remaining or leaving, all UK nationals wishing to live and work in Italy for anything over three months will need a residence and work permit, which you need to apply for at the Italian embassy in London. The latter isn’t required now, but with the likelihood of leaving the EU high, it’s best to prepare for applying for one as soon as possible. If you’re lucky enough to have Italian dual citizenship, then you needn’t worry about doing that.

If you end up living in Italy before Brexit occurs, then following the UK leaving, you’ll be required to attend your local police station in Italy, in person, to receive a new residence permit. To receive permission to work the country, you’ll need to provide both a UK criminal records certificate and an Italian criminal records certificate.

These steps are essential for ensuring a smooth transition when moving to Italy from UK, as they help streamline the necessary paperwork and permits required for residency and employment in Italy. Staying informed and proactive in this process will contribute to a more seamless transition and help UK nationals adapt to the changing post-Brexit regulations when moving to Italy.

HEALTHCARE NEED-TO-KNOW

Once you’re all settled in Italy, it’s vital that you register with the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale, or SSN for short, which is the country’s national health service. You can do this via your municipality’s Azienda Sanitaria Locale (the local health authority).

Provided you have proof of a work contract or are self-employed, you can register for free. Should you not fit the bill, you’ll have to foot the bill for your health, which takes the form of a yearly fee. Full medical coverage, provided by the state, costs around £140.

PET PROVISIONS

All pet parents know how it is; moving to Italy from the UK without your furry friend just wouldn’t feel right or complete. Should you want to bring your furry friend with you on your new adventure to Italy, then firstly, that’s totally understandable. No one wants to leave those puppy dog eyes behind. You do need to make sure that you have an up-to-date, valid pet passport, and that your animal is microchipped.

Also essential are up to date, certified vaccinations as well as a clean rabies test; without one, and particularly in light of an outbreak of rabies a decade ago in the country, your pet will be denied entry. And that’s the last thing you want when you’re trying to settle in.

HOUSING

Assuming you’ve already determined which area of Italy you’re intending to live, it’s important to note a few things about the housing search which may come in handy. When searching for accommodation in any major Italian city or town, it’s best to go through an estate agent rather than liaising directly with a landlord. The latter may be less discerning and detailed with legal obligations, preferring a more ‘family style’ arrangement which might stand you in hot water with the authorities as a foreign resident should anything go wrong.

Estate agents will be able to assist you more, and with perhaps more impartiality, in the hunt. Though you may have seen recent stories about one Italian village giving away property for free, monthly rental prices usually fall between €500 and €700 in the south, and €600 to €1000 in the north and bigger cities.

As with house hunting in the UK, it’s best not to focus your search in late Summer and early Autumn as this is the time when students are seeking places to live, and as such, properties are more in demand and, in turn, more expensive. In general, property in Italy tends to be on the smaller side, with most urban rentals taking the form of apartments and flats. 

DO LEARN THE LINGO

Though English is spoken adeptly in the big cities and in business settings, it’s vital that you have a decent grasp of the Italian language if you want to get ahead. With unemployment levels pretty high in Italy currently, there is stiff competition for jobs, and a lack of the local lingo will be a severe handicap. What’s more, out of the big urban centres, little English is spoken. If you’re to assimilate smoothly, it’s respectful to have a good amount of Italian under your belt. Check out our 5 IDEAL tips for learning a new language fast online over here, if the necessity is urgent.

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5 IDEAL CHEFS JOBS WITH MORE SOCIABLE HOURS

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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5 IDEAL CHEFS JOBS WITH MORE SOCIABLE HOURS

The hours and demands of high flying, fine dining restaurants are notoriously tough. We’ve all heard the horror stories, of chefs with not enough time to get home and back, sleeping in the changing room. We’ve read of those cooks so tired they’ve deep fried their hand rather than the croquettes. We’ve learned of stress levels so high that burnout at a young age is the rule, not the exception. 

Whilst once it was considered as ‘all part of the job’, a badge of honour even, there is now a new breed of chef for whom the passion for cooking still burns bright, but whose priorities might need realigning. For those who want more of a family life, or who’d like to take better care of their physical and mental health, all is not lost. Here are 5 IDEAL chefs jobs with more sociable hours.

EVENTS CHEF

For many cooks who have grown weary with the profession, it’s the monotony of restaurant hours and the same ol’ daily tasks which finally grinds them down. Cooking in the same room, on the same section, with the same people, for 15 hours a day, six days a week can feel a little, well, repetitive. If it’s the same tasks each day – knead dough first thing, break down chickens till noon, and so on – motivation can sometimes run low. 

But what if we told you there was a role where the kitchen was always changing, the clientele diverse, and the menu different each and every service? Well, being part of an events team is one way to achieve this variety. There may even be a little creative control granted in designing fresh and exciting menus to a particular brief. A typical assignment may involve catering for a wedding, or designing a special menu for a charity function, or even cooking for special guests at a sporting occasion. 

This one is perfectly suited for those seeking something ever-changing in terms of food prep and service, but who can respond to the demands of flexible hours and needs accordingly.

Read: How to land your first job in a professional kitchen

VILLA CHEF

Though perhaps lacking the adrenaline of service and the camaraderie of a professional kitchen, for those looking for something less frantic and fast-paced, and with a huge amount of autonomy over the menu, a villa chef role could be perfect. Here, you can gain experience running your own kitchen, taking control of orders, and designing dishes – albeit on a small scale – for guests renting a holiday home or villa for the duration of their stay. This means that although the covers will be on the smaller side, the expectation for top-notch grub will be massive. Often, it won’t cover breakfast, lunch and dinner, but rather meals at the behest of villa guests. 

Ideally, rosette or Michelin level experience is necessary here, as villa guests will have forked out serious money for the service, and may well be expectant of (and discerning about) haute cuisine and all that entails. This role is well suited for someone who is adaptable to the changing needs of different clientele, and who can liaise regularly with them to create a menu of finesse and elegance.

SKI SEASON CHEF

The dream of so many, this, to combine a love of cooking with a passion for snow sports. Ski season chef roles are highly coveted, and usually last for a whole winter season in the European alpine destinations of Switzerland, Italy and France. The biggest perk here is the package, which usually includes board, lodgings, ski hire, ski pass and food. In return, and similar to a villa chef, you’ll be listening to the needs of an ever-rotating cast of chalet guests, and designing and cooking a menu to suit them. 

Unlike the villa chef role, however, you’ll usually be catering for breakfast, a late lunch and dinner, though the expectation for fancy fare is generally less prevalent. Ideal, we think, for those with a keen interest in snow sports, and a large, diverse repertoire of dishes at their disposal. It’s important to note that for the other half of the year, many ski season chefs resort to yacht chef roles.

Read: 6 tips on how to start a food business from your home kitchen

DEVELOPMENT CHEF

An increasingly in-demand role, and one which usually follows standard office hours, is that of the development chef. This type of chef is either in charge of creating new dishes and developing ideas for a prestigious restaurant, or is at the helm of a kitchen designing new products for a supermarket or high street brand. For the former, a creative, inquisitive mind is vital. And for the latter (and the more common position of the two) a bulletproof knowledge of food hygiene, food science and costing is required, as margins mean everything in this game. For development chefs, an extensive awareness of food trends, as well as the ability to predict the next, is a key attribute to continued success in the role.

BREAKFAST CHEF

The early bird catches the worm, as they say. Perhaps you’re an early riser? Or maybe you have other demands later in the day which take priority? If so, a breakfast chef role in a busy hotel kitchen could be you. Traditionally, this involves setting up the kitchen first thing in the morning (the role usually begins at around 6am) before guests are up, then cooking breakfast up until lunch service takes over, followed by a tidy down and ordering any items needed for the next day. Breakfast chefs can expect to be out the door by 2pm. 

Whilst perhaps not the most glamorous of cheffing roles, they do say that ‘breakfast is the most important meal of the day’. And having an afternoon to collect children, go to university, or simply kick back? Well, that sounds pretty good to us.

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO WHITENING TEETH WITH FRUIT

Editorial Team
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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO WHITENING TEETH WITH FRUIT

Yep, you read that right. Fruit! But don’t shut down your browser just yet, we’re not crazy. Indeed, whilst an entire industry has grown up around polishing and cleaning the inside of our collective mouths, a perhaps better path to gleaming whites can be found in your fridge. Society is moving away from the harsh chemicals and products of yore though, and a series of recent web claims has placed fruit, spices, and all sorts of other things at the centre of the teeth whitening debate. With that in mind, here’s our IDEAL guide to whitening teeth with fruit.

BANANAS WITH TURMERIC

Let’s start with one of the most common entrants to online trivia – bananas. It’s well known that the yellow fruit is good for energy and a great source of potassium, but the banana’s claim to teeth whitening excellence seems a little spurious. Toothpaste company Colgate notes that there’s zero scientific evidence behind cleaning or whitening your teeth with bananas (specifically, rubbing the inside of the peel on the enamel) but dental director Uchenna Okoye, speaking to India Today, claims the opposite, noting bananas’ exfoliating properties. We’ll leave that one to your discretion, we think.

TURMERIC

A common piece of advice regarding teeth cleaning is that anything that will stain your clothes will stain your teeth – that’s why wine, coffee, and tobacco are the bane of dentists everywhere, and a lifestyle change might be the only way to whiten your teeth over time. If you smoke, stop and not just for your teeth. On your journey to quitting, nicotine pouches can serve as an alternative to smoking, as they omit tobacco, helping to keep your teeth free of brown stains. While turmeric, too, will stain your teeth it has been cited online as a teeth whitener – Make sure you avoid taking the advice of that bit of internet wisdom.

CITRIC ACID

Again, there’s some anecdotal evidence that strawberries can help whiten teeth but little support from the scientific community. In fact, Ran Kwon, a researcher in the topic at the University of Iowa, noted that a paste formed of baking soda and strawberries failed to improve the colour of 20 human molars over ten days. Much like lemons, which were recently discarded to the ‘not recommended’ pile of dental aids, strawberries also contain high levels of citric acid, which can damage teeth. Much the same applies to other acids, like those in cider vinegar.

SUPERFICIAL STAINS

Ultimately, many DIY solutions that claim to whiten teeth do so by removing superficial stains and not by penetrating into the tooth. The absence of two key whitening ingredients, namely, hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, from fruit-based cleaning pastes, renders much of the debate about their efficacy moot. Therefore, professional products and, as mentioned, lifestyle changes are a much better option for your mouth than raiding the fruit bowl – however delicious a choice it might be.

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5 IDEAL GAY FRIENDLY EUROPEAN TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Joseph Gann
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5 IDEAL GAY FRIENDLY EUROPEAN TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Though safe, open travel for gay couples and groups has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, it’s certainly true that some destinations offer more in terms of security, acceptance and celebration than others. If you’re planning on a mini break on the continent, or even a staycation on terra firma, and are looking for the city with the highest concentration of gay bars, or the most reverent, revelrous Pride event, then you’ve arrived at the right place; our 5 IDEAL gay friendly European travel destinations.

BRIGHTON, UK

Though London or Manchester could proudly stake a fair claim as being the UK’s gay capital, Brighton still takes the crown year after year. Indeed, it’s often declared to be the world’s LGBTI capital, and this is partly due to the huge, 160’000 strong Pride festival (over half the city’s entire population) which happens each year in August, bringing 2% of Brighton’s annual visitors in a single day. Whether you’re travelling here single or as part of gay travel groups, you’ll feel right at home in the City by the Sea.

But that’s not to say the city is only gay friendly for just a single day a year. Indeed, it’s a city which prides itself on openess and acceptance all year round, and has the highest percentage of same-sex households in the country, as well as a hip and happening collection of gay bars and clubs centred around St. James’ Street in Kemptown and on towards the beach. If you can’t wait until the summer to visit this lovely seaside town, then consider a trip down in February, when the month is dedicated to LGBTI with art, film showings, discussions and tours centering around influential figures in the LGBTI community.

BERLIN, GERMANY

Another city which regularly lays claim to being Europe’s Gay Capital, Berlin is something of a different propostion to our previous entrant. Even during Pride, there’s something a touch quaint about proceedings in Brighton. No such danger in Berlin, Germany, where the party is frivolous, frisky and seemingly never ending. 

The city boasts the world famous Schoneberg, the first and largest gay village in the world. During the day, head to Schwules Museum, which is one of the most culturally significant documenters of LGBTQ+ history in the world, with regularly updated exhibitions, film screenings and more about the community. Or, go shopping in style at Europe’s largest department store, KaDeWe, or the somewhat more humble Fleamarket Schoneberg.

Enjoy an afternoon coffee at one of the city’s oldest devotedly gay cafes (a favourite of David Bowie during his Berlin exile) Neues Ufer, and then end the evening on the dancefloor. Depending on your stripes, Prinzknecht caters to a leatherclad crowd, whilst WOOF is hugely popular with bears and otters. Or, you could do both!

LISBON, PORTUGAL

Portugal only legalised same-sex marriage in 2010, but Lisbon is now one of the most open minded and open armed cities in the world. The establishing of both Portugal Pride, which takes place here in June, and the International Queer Film Festival in late September, has made it a much loved gay friendly destination in recent years, and the vibe is inclusive all over the city. 

The bohemian enclaves of Barrio Alto and Principe Real are where most of the action goes down, with trendy bars dominating the scene. The popular gay street Rua da Barrocca houses lively hangout Espaco 40 e 1, with the biggest gay friendly club, Trumps, just a ten minute walk from there. That’s our evening written, then.

AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS

An inclusive, open minded city if ever there was one, Amsterdam boasts the largest concentration of gay bars in Europe, and an LGBTI scene proud to call itself one of the world’s largest. In fact, the Netherland’s was the first country in the world to legalise same sex marriage (in 2001) and continues to be a welcoming, progressive place to visit. Of particular pride to the city is Pink Point, one of the world’s only official Gay and Lesbian information kiosks, housed next to the Homomonument on Westermarkt. The Homomonument itself is also a must visit; a memorial erected to commemorate those men and women who have been persecuted because of their sexuality.

For perhaps the most popular and happening gay friendly districts, head to Amstel for its ubiquitous Dutch ‘Brown Bars’ featuring local beer and traditional dress, or for nightlife, Kerkstraat and Reguliersdwarsstraat offer gay hotels and bars. For something a little more fetish, Warmoesstraat gets down and dirty until the sun comes up.

SITGES, SPAIN

Carrying the nicknames of both ‘Ibiza in miniature’ and ‘the Saint Tropez of Spain’, Sitges, nestled in the Mediterranean basin just an hour south of Barcelona, is Europe’s latest premier gay destination. 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, Spain’s biggest and most raucous, goes down at the tail end of February and beginning of March each year, and is one of the best Mardi Gras celebrations on the planet, particularly popular with the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a week long fiesta of fancy dress and frivolity, peaking with the Rua de la Disbauxa (‘The Debauchery Parade’). This parade sees more than forty floats full of crossdressing, stripping, and generally a risque, no holds barred vibe.

But perhaps an even larger drawer for the gay community is Sitges’ Gay Pride event. Next year will see its ten year anniversary, and it promises to be bigger and more bombastic than ever before. Beginning on the 1st June and lasting for ten days, expect outdoor events focused around pools and the beach, making the most of the superb climate and Sitges’ position on the Med. Although much of this plays out on the streets and in public, tickets are essential for the private parties, which sell out months in advance. Book early to avoid disappointment.

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4 STEPS TO PROVIDING THE IDEAL ONLINE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

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4 STEPS TO PROVIDING THE IDEAL ONLINE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

If you’re setting up a new business, or even if you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, you’ll know that the online shopping experience is a vital part of the customer journey. In fact, it’s one that can define the answer to that all important question; ‘will you be returning?’.  

Yep, it’s true that with a dedicated focus on providing the ideal customer experience, you’ll be able to convert consumers into customers, and ditherers into devotees, with a greater level of efficiency, in turn creating a level of excitement around your brand that’s important for you to establish a greater market share in the long run. Here’s how; our 4 steps to providing the IDEAL online shopping experience.

FOCUS ON THE JOURNEY

The customer experience (CX) journey is perhaps the most important aspect to concentrate on when you’re considering your online selling platform. From the moment that a consumer gets in touch, or lands on your website, their experience begins, and boosting your customer experience strategy needs to be emphasised.

What’s particularly important to note is that the journey doesn’t even end when they make a purchase, or decide to leave your website – you want them to have deduced an understanding of what you’re like as a brand and as an individual, so that they carry with them your business’ character, and may turn to you for shopping in the future. 

A SEAMLESS ONLINE SPACE

If you’re to imbue loyalty and garner word-of-mouth references from your clients, you need them to feel like they’re shopping on a classy, professional and trustworthy website. To enhance their experience, you should consider:

  • Hiring a professional photographer in order to make your photos ‘pop out’ of your website
  • Using a freelance copywriter to make your text more engaging and exciting on every page
  • Building a well-made website, with all the bells and whistles that you need to impress consumers
  • Partnering with a reputable and well-equipped e-commerce provider to help you establish better sales platforms on your website

If you follow all of these points, you’ll be providing a better – a more ideal – experience for every web user that comes across your website.

STRATEGISE

There’s no doubt that an enhanced customer experience will help you spread your brand’s credentials and convert web users into customers; the crucial point in the customer journey. This will help you to build a solid and reliable base of customers, who are more than happy to return and shop with you on a regular basis, as well as recommending you to friends, colleagues and more. 

In order to build this, you’re going to need to focus on an overall strategy. Boosting your customer experience strategy doesn’t have to be done in-house. Often, it makes more sense to outsource this to an external agency. They will be able to help you patch together the perfect response to your customer’s needs, both online and in the real world.

PROVIDE UNRIVALLED CUSTOMER SERVICE

The service you provide gives your customers a key understanding of how much you value their custom. It’s vital, then, to make any visitors to your online world feel valued, listened to and safe. Be efficient, timely, reliable and friendly in each and every interaction with your customers, whether it’s on the phone, over an email, or face-to-face. This is how they’ll gain the trust they need to do business with you and pass on positive feedback to friends, family and colleagues.

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4 IDEAL WAYS TO REDUCE STRESS DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

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4 IDEAL WAYS TO REDUCE STRESS DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

Though Christmas hasn’t yet been conquered, the season of giving, altruism and generosity is certainly beginning to loom large. And that’s just great, we love the festive period and all the socialising and celebrating it brings. 

Sometimes, it has to be said, it doesn’t love us in quite the same way. Indeed, Christmas can end up being a stressful, unhealthy time, of overindulgence and overt emotions. It’s important, then, to remember to take care of yourself during this time; because self improvement doesn’t have to be selfish, here are 4 IDEAL ways to look reduce stress during the festive season.

EAT RIGHT

Another mince pie? Why not, I’ve only had seven today. When the snacks are always in, the fridge always stocked and the drinks cupboard fuller than usual, it can be hugely tempting over the Christmas season to throw caution to the wind and forget all self-control where our diets are concerned. But ask yourself if it’s really worth it. That post-Christmas slump, and the struggle to get back into the gym, can be really tough and counter-intuitive if you spend the whole of the month overdoing it. 

A little moderation goes a long way. Whilst we wouldn’t want to discourage enjoying all the delicious treats of the season, it’s sensible to at least bear portion size in mind during December, as well as making an effort to still eat plenty of fruit, vegetables and other nutritious elements. Should you feel that you’re missing out on the healthy stuff in the midst of all the Christmas canapes and finger food, there’s no harm in topping up your diet with multivitamin supplements.

EXERCISE

Routine seems to go down the toilet as soon as the Christmas tree goes up. The party season demands a huge amount of space on our calendar and conversely, that part of the day we usually dedicate to the gym gets squeezed out by more pressing concerns. But during a time of such overindulgence, it’s vital you keep up with your exercise regime, to keep the wolf from the door, your energy levels consistent and stress levels lower. 

Exercise has been proven time and time again to help us let off steam and reduce stress, so don’t miss out on it just because you’re a little busier than usual. If you really can’t find the time for a gym trip, try fitting in a quick home exercise instead, as a stop-gap solution. Check out our 5 IDEAL tips for working out at home here.

MEDITATE

Meditation and mindfulness have been attributed with providing a whole host of amazing benefits to those devoted to the discipline. These include improved concentration, reduced stress levels, help with addiction and many, many more things besides. And a period of calm, where you can listen to your own thoughts and needs attentively and without distraction? Well, doesn’t that sound pretty ideal during a period of near non-stop stimulation? 

It only takes ten or so minutes a day of stillness and calm, and there are plenty of apps out there to assist you in getting going if this is your first time, but the effect on your overall well being can be huge. When combined holistically with other calming elements – you could do a daily yoga routine, investigate the efficacy of herbal supplements, listen to white noise, or learn more about breathing and visualisation techniques – your traditional Christmas stress will be reduced. 

STICK TO YOUR USUAL ROUTINE

After a couple of months of gentle, predictable routine, the party season can throw us a little off-kilter. The sporadic late nights, necessary lie-ins and missed alarm clocks, as well as the skipped dinners and odd snacking timetable, can leave our sense of inner calm in tatters. We realise it may sound simple, but to look after yourself well during the Christmas period, try to keep to your usual routine as much as possible, as that predictability can be comforting and a great way to tackle stress.

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO BEAT THE POST-WEDDING BLUES

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO BEAT THE POST-WEDDING BLUES

Here’s a cold, hard truth that you’re perhaps not quite ready to accept; though your wedding may have been the best day of your life, the comedown is worse than anything you may have experienced following Glastonbury or Creamfields.

After all the months – and perhaps even years – of planning, once the big day is over, and regardless of where you might be enjoying your honeymoon, expect some post-wedding blues to hit. There are ways to make them less severe, however, and come out the other side a happy couple looking forward to many years together. Here’s how; our 5 IDEAL ways to beat the post-wedding blues.

BE AWARE OF THEM

The first step in tackling a problem is accepting it exists. And as with most things, forewarned is forearmed in terms of the post-wedding comedown. So, accept in advance that the post-wedding blues exist, as this will help you to find ways to sidestep them before your wedding day.

A common reason for feeling down after your wedding is that so much of your life has been taken up with thinking about and planning for the big day. So, once it’s over, you’re at a loose end.

To avoid this, try to keep balance in your life in the lead up to your wedding. Maintain a social life that doesn’t revolve around the wedding (or talking about the wedding) and keep up your normal hobbies and activities that make you happy. Don’t let the big day dominate every single aspect of your life. That way, you won’t have to put your life back together from scratch once the wedding is over.

RIDE IT OUT

Weddings are notorious for bringing out many different emotions, particularly for those getting married. Tying the knot is a big, serious step in your life, and one which signals new responsibilities. It’s likely you will have a lot to work through for yourself, let alone all the inevitable compromises as a couple.

All the organisation and stress can leave you feeling tired, overwhelmed and drained and you’re bound to experience a mixture of different feelings before, on, and after your big day. Allowing yourself to experience these emotions without guilt or repression can help hugely in avoiding post-wedding blues. 

LOOK FORWARD TO THE NEXT STAGE

While a certain amount of emptiness is inevitable once the wedding is over, know that there is still so much to look forward to. If you’re going on a far-flung honeymoon, throw yourself into planning day trips and activities that you’d like to do while away. Alternatively, if you’re planning on kicking back on the beach for a week, choose the perfect book and swimsuit to accompany you and your spouse on your first holiday as newlyweds.

And in the longer term, try to visualise the happy years ahead, perhaps with a family, perhaps with a sense of freedom. That way, you can conceptualise the wedding day as just the beginning, rather than with a sense of loss.

REVEL IN THE MEMORIES

Though we’re encouraging looking forward, there’s absolutely no harm in reliving the special day and luxuriating in it as much as possible, too. Plot a date to meet up with friends and reminisce, perhaps when you get your photos through.

Make a real occasion of it; shop for perfect the wedding photo album, choose to display them on a big screen or in beautifully selected frames, or even spend the days following the event assembling a custom photo book chock-full of wonderful memories…in doing so, the memories will be with you forever.

ENJOY YOUR MARRIAGE

Even if there were hiccups on your big day, the chances are that all your hard work and planning paid off. Sometimes, between the endless lists of invitations, florists and catering ideas, it’s easy to lose sight of why you’re getting married in the first place.

A wedding is a commitment to each other and a celebration of your relationship. So, be sure to remember that your marriage is even more beautiful and important than your wedding day itself. Now you’re married, you’re about to start a whole new chapter. Remember your wedding day with fondness as you step forwards into the rest of your life with your new spouse.

5 IDEAL BUILDINGS FOR ARCHITECTURE BUFFS TO VISIT IN NEWCASTLE

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5 IDEAL BUILDINGS FOR ARCHITECTURE BUFFS TO VISIT IN NEWCASTLE

Consistently ranked as among the happiest cities in the UK, as well as the best place to be a student, Newcastle upon Tyne has so much to give. Whatever you’re interested in, the chances are that Newcastle has it – from the Baltic Art Centre to over 300 cafes and pubs, and over 92 parks and churches, as well as a beloved football team and famously warm welcome, it’s all here. It’s also an affordable place to both live and visit, with tenants on average spending just a quarter of their earnings on rent and many of the city’s attractions easily accessible. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL buildings for architecture buffs to visit in Newcastle.

THE TOFFEE FACTORY

Nowadays, the Toffee Factory is a quirky office building full of creative businesses, but can you guess what it started life as? The answer is fairly obscure, as it was, in fact, a cattle sanatorium. Perhaps not what you were expecting? 

Anyway, Maynard’s Ltd leased the building from 1906, and began producing all kinds of sweets, most famously Maynard’s Toffee, but also making:

  • Acid Drops — boiled sweets with a sharp taste
  • Black Bullets — peppermint flavoured boiled sweets 
  • Cloves — red and white striped candy 
  • Pear Drops — pink and yellow sweets with a pear and banana taste 
  • Humbugs — black and white striped sweets with a peppermint taste
  • Aniseed Balls — hard candy flavoured with aniseed oil for a strong taste 
  • Rock — hard candy sticks usually sold in coastal areas 

A fire in 1993 left the factory building severely damaged, and it was abandoned for many years up until its refurbishment in 2011. It is now an office space that houses many creative industries, from advertising to virtual reality and landscape architects. 

SALLYPORT TOWER

Erected between 1265-1307, the first purpose of Sallyport Tower was to defend Newcastle’s city walls. Though the top part was destroyed by a Scottish siege in 1644, it was restored in 1716 for its second use as a meeting place for the Shipwright’s and Carpenter’s Guild. 

The tower is often inadvertently overlooked by the people of Newcastle, despite it being a notably distinctive site. As such, when photographer Kevin Radcliffe acquired the ancient building in 2015, he dubbed it ‘The Secret Tower’ and transformed its space into a gallery and an area for photoshoots in-between event bookings, such as weddings. Now, The Sallyport Tower opens twice a year for public admission, as a part of the Heritage Open Days calendar, and on these days it’s well worth a visit.

THE ROYAL STATION HOTEL 

The Royal Station Hotel is, without doubt, one of the most iconic buildings in the region. The hotel has welcomed many famous guests, including Laurel and Hardy, Laurence Olivier, and Muhammad Ali. But perhaps the most famous hand to grace the doors of the hotel was that of Queen Victoria, who opened the premises in 1850. This standout building makes it one of the most striking hotels that Newcastle has to offer, and naturally, it has become a top wedding and events venue as well, with its ornate structures setting the perfect romantic scene. 

The site is a Grade I and Grade II listed building, yet it holds many modern facilities which would surprise anyone observing the traditional exterior. From an indoor swimming pool, fitness centre, sauna, hot tub, and free Wi-Fi facilities, The Royal Station Hotel is a must visit for anyone venturing up to the toon. 

BLACKFRIARS 

The Blackfriars site dates back to 1239, and the picturesque cottage style building was once the rectory of a friary. The building was home to the ‘black friars’ (hence the name) and built on land donated by three sisters. The building itself was funded by Sir Peter Scott, the first Mayor of Newcastle. 

The friars would tend to the gardens surrounding the priory, which helped to sustain the work of the nearby infirmary with the diverse array of thriving plant life. As well as providing shelter for the friars, the priory housed King Henry III as the town had no inn at the time for royalty. Payment for his stay came in the form of white cloth, which covered both his stay and the damage caused by his retinue. Interestingly, the gifted white cloth provided tunics for the friars, which were worn with traditional black cloaks. It is said that this outfit inspired the black and white football strip of Newcastle United. 

Following King Henry VIII’s decree that all monasteries be closed, the building sadly fell into disrepair. The priory lost everything, and the church was demolished. Only the non-religious buildings of the cloisters remain. The friary’s former refectory survived and is now used as an 80-seat restaurant, believed to be the oldest dining room in the UK.

JAMES’ PARK

Speaking of the famous black and white stripes of Newcastle United, you can’t visit the city without paying a visit to its famous stadium St. James’ Park. A huge stadium of more than 52’000 capacity, it’s known across the country as being a cauldron of noise, atmosphere and passion; the Geordies just love their footy.

That doesn’t mean it’s an inhospitable place to visit on matchday. Quite on the contrary in fact; they are loyal but welcoming bunch. And if you don’t fancy actually attending a match, you can take a tour of the iconic venue, with their Rooftop Tour granting unparalleled views of the city (and the pitch below!). Or, you could catch a gig here. In recent years the stadium has hosted the likes of the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Queen, Bob Dylan and many more.

If you’re visiting the city as a student, then check out our article on the 5 IDEAL ways to make the most of student discounts in Newcastle.

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5 IDEAL PLACES TO TRY A SPACE CAKE IN AMSTERDAM

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5 IDEAL PLACES TO TRY A SPACE CAKE IN AMSTERDAM

Surprisingly tasty and super strong, edibles laced with cannabis are the one type of brownie you should not scoff with abandon. The space cake takes up to two hours to kick in, and it’s recommended to only eat half at first, to test the strength and settle in nicely. Don’t be tempted to eat the other half if you don’t feel anything straight away – bide your time.

Well, we’re here to talk about arguably the world’s space cake capital, Amsterdam. Since there are hundreds of coffee shops in the city, with many of them selling marijuana related products, it’s not hard to hunt one down. However, some places are a little more seedy or touristy than others, and should be avoided. If you’re after a legal high in the right setting, then check these; our 5 IDEAL places to try a space cake in Amsterdam.

ORIGINAL DAMPKRING 

Located near the city’s floating flower market, this place is perennially popular with locals and tourists alike. Here, hipsters rub shoulders with yuppies, and people of all ages come to enjoy high quality edibles and smoke. Spacious yet cosy and with plenty of seating, Original Dampkring is the place to come if you’re visiting the city with a large group.

This coffee shop feels a bit like you’re in someone’s living room; no bad thing when there’s weed on the agenda. Interesting decor which boasts loads of intriguing lights are just great to look at when the high hits you. Oh and, this place famously appeared in Ocean’s 12 when Brad Pitt, George Clooney and the gang came to discuss their ‘business’.

COFFEESHOP SOLO 

This one is a little out of the way and all the better for it. Located to the east of Nieuwmarkt Square on  Korte Koningsstraat, its off centre position means a more relaxed, chilled out vibe. Coffee Solo seats around 15 people, and we’re huge fans of their comfortable booths. Since it’s small, intimate even, the staff are friendly and chatty and are never too busy to offer you tips. If you’re after a quiet place to get your legal high and like your space as well as your cakes, this is perhaps the best place in the city to come.

BLUEBIRD

Another one that is a little out of the way, Barney’s is an easy-going spot catering to both green fingered and red eyed locals and tourists. The walls are adorned with paintings and murals of exotc birds and everything is rendered in deep green hues, channeling a jungle-like vibe. They also have home-made Dutch pancakes, ideal for your munchie cravings. If you get that familiar hunger pang after your space cake, then a few stroopwafels (a traditional Dutch treat) are ideal.

Read: What to do in Amsterdam for foodies

BARNEY’S COFFEESHOP

A short walk from Centraal Station, Barney’s is an award winning coffee shop. Unlike a lot of the ‘weed cafes’ that channel the boho vibe, Barney’s is kitted how with fashionable designer decor, setting a more upmarket and sophisticated tone to your high. Their weed cake completely conceals the taste of marijuana (for better or for worse), and there’s actually a decent cup of Joe here, too. They also have a massive selection of award winning seeds for the horticulturist or the curious in you.

LA TERTULIA 

Established in 1983 and ideal for canalside chilling ever since, La Terulia is a gorgeous little coffee shop channeling the impressionist art of Van Gogh and the serenity of green (plants that is) in their Crystal Garden. As well as selling the good stuff, they have a large selection of bongs and papers available for the cann-oisseurs among us. The family run vibe gives everything an easy, gentle flow which will put you in the right frame of mind for kicking back and enjoying the vibes. Lovely stuff.

7 IDEAL ACTIVITIES IN LONDON FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES

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7 IDEAL ACTIVITIES IN LONDON FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES

As any parent will attest, keeping kids entertained is no mean feat. And providing the right kind of entertainment – active, exciting and educational – is an even taller ask if you have several little ones to look after, of varying interests and ages. Only something versatile, then, something diverse and appealing across the board, will do. Fortunately, the capital city is blessed with so much in this department. With that in mind, here are 7 IDEAL activities in London for kids of all ages.

OUTDOOR ICE SKATING RINKS

The cold weather doesn’t mean you need to keep your kids cooped up inside; oh no. In fact, the opposite is true; getting outdoors and amongst it in the winter can be especially beneficial for children. The good news is that London offers some great opportunities for winter outdoor activities, especially ice skating. Outdoor ice rinks pop up all over London during the festive season, such as at the National History Museum in South Kensington, Somerset House and at the Tower of London. With skates available for hire at nearly all venues, all you (and the little ones) need to bring is their bravery.

SEA LIFE LONDON AQUARIUM

Seeing marine life in the flesh, in all its technicolour beauty, could keep the youngest all the way to the oldest kid thoroughly transfixed. So much so, in fact, that they won’t even know they’re having an educational experience at the same time! 

The SEA LIFE London Aquarium has over 350 species from marine ecosystems all over the world, such as sharks, octopus and tropical fish, including the clown fish, made famous by Finding Nemo. The aquarium is located in the heart of Westminster, and offers unique viewing experiences such as a glass tunnel walkway, as well as regular talks, dives and feeding. Buying online, in advance, earns you a significant discount here, so it’s worth planning in advance.

WARNER BROTHERS HARRY POTTER STUDIOS

Show me a child, of any age, who doesn’t love the world’s most famous wizard? We certainly haven’t found one. In fact, Harry Potter in London is an incredible experience for Harry Potter fans of all ages, including the parents! The studios are located at Warner Brothers’ London location – the closest station is Watford Junction – and contain some of the most famous sets from the movie franchise. Your family can immerse themselves in the world of wizard, wandering down Diagon Alley, stepping inside the Great Hall, visiting the Gryffindor common room, and more. The studios also have real props and costumes from the films, too, making it an immersive experience which will keep the whole family entertained all day.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM

Yep, children are perennially obsessed by anything with four (or more) wheels. Buses, trains, cars…if it lives on the road and it moves, your kid will be able to recite an incredible amount of facts about it. Encourage this obsession by taking the little ones to learn about the iconic London transport system at this fun and interactive museum. The museum has iconic vehicles from the city’s transport history, from a classic red London bus to the world’s first tube train, many of which can be ridden, or even driven (though it won’t actually be moving, of course). There are special exhibits and activities for kids, and entry is free for anyone under 18 years of age. Result.

KIDZANIA

Kidzania is an indoor city run by kids (though it’s perhaps not as terrifying as that tagline sounds) with the goal of allowing youngsters to explore the adult world and test out what they may want to be when they grow up, in a free and non-judgmental way. Designed for children aged from four to 14, there are immersive activities which give young visitors the change to try out a range of careers from firefighters and pilots to dancers and magicians. If your kids are over eight years old, you can even check them in and leave them to it. They may even leave inspired; the dream, we think.

LONDON ZOO

Taking your children to the zoo is a timeless experience which never goes out of style. Well actually, it might, if the zoo in question follows questionable ethical practices. Fortunately, London Zoo’s responsible animal keeping credentials are faultless, with habitats huge and kept as close to natural as possible. Yep, London Zoo is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious, playing an important role in education and conservation. 

More to the point, it’s a great family day out and has absolutely loads to keep the kids entertained. Introduce your children to over 750 different species of animals from all over the world and keep an eye out for special events throughout the day, such as penguin shows and feeding times. Discount tickets for various elements of London Zoo are available, with National Rail currently offering 2 for the price of 1 entry.

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM

Yep, we already mentioned transport which relies on terra firma, but to expand on a theme, what kid doesn’t love boats and ships? Come to mention it, what adult isn’t interested in these mighty vessels, too? The National Maritime Museum has a wealth of interesting exhibits, and is especially great for little ones because of its interactive displays, including some designed especially for children, like the AHOY! children’s gallery for the under-sevens. Older children will love the All Hands exhibit where they can steer a ship. Adults, well, they’ll love the fact their kids are both educated and entertained, for free.

 

5 IDEAL & PRACTICAL INVESTMENTS TO IMPROVE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME

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5 IDEAL & PRACTICAL INVESTMENTS TO IMPROVE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME

Home is where the heart is. A castle, a shelter, a place of protection, of family and love, and one which, for better or for worse, reflects your personality in myriad, magical ways. But conversely, when the time comes to sell up and move on, those rose tinted spectacles you’ve been wearing need taking off. A more clinical perspective is required to achieve the best results and, without wishing to sound uncouth, make the most money possible. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL & pratical investments to improve the value of your home.

BATH TIME

There is no space smaller which packs such a punch in terms of potential value. After all, where else do we sit, without distraction, and stare ahead of us, contemplating imperfections? So, to improve your house’s immediate, cosmetic appeal and convey a sense of ‘worth’, it’s a good idea to scrutinise every nook and cranny of your bathroom to check for any blemishes, and at the very least invest in a deep clean, but more likely, a new coating of paint. 

In doing so, the bathroom will look brighter, more roomy, and simply, fresher. Because after all, as the old adage goes, if the bathroom isn’t clean, what does that say about the rest of the house? On the flip side, if things here do look shipshape, the home as a whole will look rosier. And if you’d like to spend a little more on making your bathroom really purr, then check out our 5 IDEAL items to add luxury to your bathroom over here.

FINESSE THOSE FITTINGS

Whilst updating the fixtures on your house (those ever presents like the toilet, bath, the boiler, radiators etc.) can represent a large scale investment, giving the fittings some extra attention can add value without being such a huge undertaking. Though these fittings are often not included in the sale of your property, having attractive elements on domestic display can really help the potential buyer imagine their new life in your property; and that sense of imagination is something you should really encourage when trying to sell. 

So, make sure your kitchen appliances are sparkling and perhaps even consider investing in some shiny, modern new bits of tech to help present your house’s best side. Display some art, make sure flowers are looking perky and fresh, perhaps hang a new full length mirror; all little touches which don’t cost much but emphasise the potential, all important ‘livability’ of your property and make it seem like a comfortable, desirable place to dwell.

RELIABLE, DURABLE FLOORING

The ability to lure in potential buyers so their first look isn’t their last is best realised via a  multisensory approach. Sure, it’s clear things should look good; clean, in order, bright and beautiful. And yep, with the viewer able to foresee their future domestic bliss in all its glory, a sale of the value you’re seeking is much more likely. But first impressions are best made when things also feel, smell and sound good, and a sense of longevity is harnessed. Flooring plays a vital role in achieving this attack on the senses, and can make or break that first impression.  

Of the many options available, wooden flooring can add particular value, as it’s durable, sturdy and reliable, and as such gives the impression of being part of a bigger, investment-worthy picture. The fact it sounds so good under foot and smells, well, homely certainly does no harm either.

PAY ATTENTION TO KERB APPEAL

We keep banging on about first impressions. What’s logically and logistically true is that these occur before a potential buyer has even entered the building. Giving the exterior of your home an update is a simple cosmetic procedure, and one which can cement a positive impression so early on in the process. After that, the viewer is putty in your hands. 

Taking care of that first impression is something called ‘kerb appeal’ and even the most innocuous elements can play a part in the overall impact of that first once over. An unruly front garden, broken gates, a tatty fence or dirty drive; these can all be a major turn-off. A basic clean-up, with rake, shears and lawnmower at the ready, can go such a long way, but we’re here to talk about investments. 

Focus first on your front door, since it’s an element which will get a thorough appraisal on first visit. Give the doorknob and knocker a good polish, make sure the key turns with ease, and give the whole door a new coat of paint should that be required. If you’re lucky enough to have a front garden, make the most of it! Trim back any shrubbery from your hedge, mulch the flower beds, add hanging baskets, prune old ones, and fill window boxes with eye-catching arrangements. If the outdoor space of your gaff is purely a place for the bins, a wooden bin store could serve to hide any unsightly bags of rubbish. Yep, those first impressions are definitely worth micromanaging.

CONVERT STORAGE INTO LIVING SPACE

A slightly larger undertaking, both in terms of time and money, this, but one which can reap serious benefits if the effort is made. Each and every house has those areas dedicated (perhaps too keenly) to storage, which sometimes become a bit of a dumping ground when the potential is there for so much more. 

Since you’re moving out anyway, and the necessity for storage isn’t long term, consider clearing out any areas which have accumulated ‘stuff’, perhaps into a short-term lock up, and devoting a little time into making that room a living space instead. This only requires an investment in a sofa or bed, some furniture, perhaps a couple of shelves and decoration to make it feel more homely, but in doing so, possibilities in the mind of the buyer are opened up. It’s all about giving your house a chance at putting its best foot forward. An added living space makes strides in the right direction.

 

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