Cars can often be the trickiest vehicles to sleep in, with the tight spaces often causing an uncomfortable sleeping environment and every twist and turn stirring us from a very temporary slumber. But if you’re planning a road trip this summer, you’ll need to catch a few zeds in between stops to make the most of the time spent outside, in the open air and amongst it. Providing you’re not behind the wheel, of course, and with the help of Neil Robinson, Sealy UK’s resident sleep expert, here are 5 IDEAL sleeping tips for your roadtrip.
KEEP SWITCHING YOUR POSITION
Get the blood flowing in your legs with gentle foot and ankle exercises, and move your arms around to improve blood flow and circulation. Moving around periodically or switching positions occasionally can help prevent aches and pains, and relieve muscle tension to prevent sleep-disturbing cramps. Vital when you’re cooped up in the car for extended periods.
BRING A COTTON BLANKET
Cars are prone to changing temperature very quickly, heating up rapidly in the sun, and cooling down just as quickly in the dark – and that’s not even taking into consideration the air con, and your family’s differing body temperatures. By bringing a cotton blanket or wearing cotton clothing you can layer up or down as necessary. The breathable nature of the cotton material also helps your body to regulate its temperature better than polyester.
BRING YOUR EYEMASK
Whether it’s the daylight, or headlights and streetlights, car journeys are full of bright lights, which can have a negative impact on your slumber. When we see bright light, it stimulates a nerve pathway from the eye to the brain, which can stop us from feeling tired and make it harder to drift off. Wearing an eye mask will help to block out these lights and help you to fall asleep and stay asleep.
AVOID TECHNOLOGY
While it may be tempting to watch a film or read on your tablet during the car journey, but the blue light emitted from the screens impacts our levels of melatonin, the sleep-inducing hormone, as we already mentioned. And that’s not to mention the risk of travel sickness from keeping your eyes glued to a screen. By avoiding technology for a minimum of 30 minutes before you’re planning to get some kip, you can help ensure a more restful time on the road.
REMEMBER TO REST IF YOU’RE DRIVING, TOO
Fatigue is a major contributory factor in road accidents, with concentration and ability to react hugely affected by not getting enough zeds. So, if you’re at the wheel and need a bread, it’s crucial that you do just that. Chang drivers regularly or, if that’s not an option, take regular pitstops to rest and refresh.
When someone brings out at bottle of bubbly, you know it’s a special occasion. Light, refreshing and of course fizzay, it’s easy to see why Prosecco is the go to party drink for so many.
However, opening a bottle can sometimes feel a bit like firing off a rocket indoors. While a fizzy explosion looks fun in the movies and on the football pitch, it’s not great for the middle of your living room. Waste and damage; what’s not to dislike?If you want to pop and pour like a pro, then with the help of the experts at Mionetto here’s 4 IDEAL tips on perfectly popping your prosecco.
Chill to Perfection
Prosecco should be chilled – you want it to be around 6-8 degrees when you pour. Three hours in the fridge usually does the trick. If it isn’t cold enough the pressure inside the bottle will cause the cork to release very quickly – a problem if pointed in the wrong direction.
Drape a Towel Over The Bottle
Fold a napkin or kitchen towel lengthwise and put it over the cage and the cork. This small safety measure can help prevent the cork from releasing too quickly. It also looks professional; reassuring to those just about to sip, we think. It’s all part of the experience
Twist The Bottle Not the Cork
Avoid twisting the cork as it may break inside the bottle. Instead, take the body of the bottle in one hand and use your other hand to hold the cork. Turn the bottle towards you slowly. You should feel the cork start to loosen and ease into your hand. Make sure you prepare for the pop, keeping a good grip, palm gently over the top, so it doesn’t fly away with force.
Want to avoid a foamy explosion? Then serve at an angle. Simply hold the glass at a 45-degree angle and pour around an inch of wine into each glass. Wait for the bubbles to subside before topping up – this will avoid a foamy overflow and leave you with the perfect glass of bubbly to enjoy as the on-court action unfolds.
Coaches are a great way of travelling long distances on a budget, however it’s safe to say that they don’t always provide the optimum sleeping environment. But, fear not if you have a coach journey planned this summer, these tips will help improve your chances of getting some decent kip. With the help of Neil Robinson, Sealy UK’s resident sleep expert, here are 5 IDEAL tips for sleeping on a coach trip.
CHOOSE YOUR TRAVEL TIME WISELY
Early morning and late-night buses tend to be least crowded. Booking your travel during one of these periods can raise your chances of getting the row to yourself, meaning you can stretch out into a more comfortable position. This will allow your body to be more relaxed, making it more likely that you’ll get a good sleep.
AVOID TECHNOLOGY
While it may be tempting to watch a film on your tablet or read your Kindle to kill time on your journey, the blue light emitted from the screens impacts our levels of melatonin, the sleep-inducing hormone. By avoiding technology for a minimum of 30 minutes before you’re planning to get some kip, you can help ensure a better-quality sleep.
BRING EAR PLUGS
Coaches can be noisy places, with all the hustle and bustle from other passengers, not to mention the noise of traffic and beeping horns from other vehicles. Bringing ear plugs on your journey can help to muffle this and turn it into soothing ‘white noise’, allowing you to drift off more easily.
NECK PILLOW NIGHTS
Long haul coach travel doesn’t exactly do wonders for your neck, back and posture. Teh seats are upright and the sleep disturbed. Make sure to counteract the most negative effects of this by packing a neck pillow and utilising it on those long jouneys.
WINDOW WATCH
Watching the monotonous, hypnotic roads on a long coach journey can lull you to sleep in no time. Most coaches use a route with very few twists and turns and incredibly repitive scenery; perfect to keep the stimulation levels low.
Holidays should be the time of ultimate relaxation. An opportunity to unwind, untangle and give in to all of those urges to do absolutely nothing for long, languid stretches. But all too often, they can ramp up the stress levels so considerably that you’ll be laying by the side of the pool wishing you were in the office, with bucket list entries looming, local lingo to learn, a cleaner to avoid and much more besides. That’s not how a vacation should be. Instead, try these; our 4 IDEAL ideas for a stress free holiday.
KEEP DECISIONS TO A MINIMUM
Decisions, decisions. Nope, when on holiday, we like to keep those to a minimum, thank you very much. The only choice we care to be presented with is whether it’s a gin’n’tonic or a gin’n’juice. That’s all. Let’s accept it – whisper it, even – but sometimes, it’s nice to simply be herded, catered for and looked after. This is where the much maligned all inclusive and package deals really come into their own. Simply pay a fixed fee, leave your brain on the plane and the paradox of choice at home. Lovely.
GO ON A RIVER CRUISE
Just as a broad, everything-arranged holiday can be very relaxing indeed, so can one which is super specific. Similarly to a package holiday, the decision making is largely out of your hands, but in contrast, it’s because the choices are minimal. As such, if you’re looking for a stress-free booking and travel experience, then going on a relaxing river cruise may be for you. Not only will you be surrounded by the soothing calm of nature, but you’ll be able to leave your holiday in the capable hands of the captain, who’ll be following a pre-decided itinerary, leaving you time to instead spend your trip enjoying the facilities that the cruise has to offer.
FIND INNER PEACE AT A YOGA RETREAT
Hey you! Yes, you; the leaner-inner, eye squinter and shoulder huncher. Straighten up your back, adopt a safe reading distance, release the tension in your neck, drop those shoulders, and read on; this one’s for you.
Indeed, yoga is the modern definition of unwinding, physically and metaphorically, don’t you think? So, why not consider basing a whole holiday around the spiritual, super relaxing practice. This could be as far flung as the home of yoga, India, or as close as, well, your own home. Which brings us to…
KEEP IT LOCAL
Getting on a plane can be stressful. Learning a new language can be time consuming. Adapting your gut to a new cuisine can take the length of a holiday. A different climate can knock the stuffing out of you. Basically, with all the pitfalls and hurdles in your way when going abroad, there really is no shame in embracing a good ol’ fashioned staycation. It seems crazy that are so many of us who have conquered far flung corners of the globe but are yet to place a flag further north than Watford. So, instead of putting yourself through the stress of travelling a long distance to land in an unfamiliar country, keep things local.
It seems like photo albums, much like the name Gary and incandescent light bulbs, aren’t long for this world. Facebook, Instagram and other photo sharing apps seem to have rendered the physical album all but redundant. And while our sacrificing of privacy for collective convenience seems to dominate the discourse, we’re also forfeiting the joy of having our memories in one, tangible place; a collectable item which a thousand digital prints online just can’t compete with. If you’re inspired and thinking about making your own, here’s how; our 4 IDEAL tips for creating a photobook.
PICK A THEME
One of the first things you need to do is establish a theme. Nope, a random collection of drunken uni photos or holiday snaps of random buildings just won’t do here. Ditto grainy snaps of your dinner. You need some focus and discipline to create an album which is truly memorable.
Some of the most common types of themes include family members, events (weddings, birthdays, graduations…you know the score), as well as travel (using a photo book to relive an amazing holiday).
With so many different themes to pick from, it’s best to begin at the end, as it were. What we mean by that is that you should find meaning in your existing photos rather than dreaming up a theme and rushing through new snaps to complement it. If you’re looking to use snaps from your social media accounts, companies like Printed Memories can create a personalised photo book straight from your Instagram and Facebook albums.
USE MORE THAN JUST PHOTOS
One of the great things about creating a photo book rather than committing your memories to the digital sphere is that you can use physical, tangible items which have significance to your life. As such, you’re granted a huge freedom to look beyond the photo; include poetry, programs, stickers, postcards, illustrations and menus from memorable meals. Make the pages pop. Reach out and touch them. Now that’s not something you can’t do on Facebook (Zuckerberg, if you’re listening, you’re welcome).
THE FRAME IS AS IMPORTANT AS THE PICTURE
Obviously, you’ll need to find an actual album to do your precious memories justice, to hold them to its heart as you do. You wouldn’t just shove them in a file or note pad, now would you? Indeed, a proper album provider who can help bring your ideas to life is vital. Companies like photobookdeals.co.uk are committed to providing the best photo book deals, from the most basic all the way to high-end professional books. Shop around and find something that suits your aesthetic. The rest writes itself.
ASK PEOPLE TO CONTRIBUTE
Whether you want to document special occasions such as your wedding or your first day as a new parent, or simply capture snaps of everyday life moving and grooving, asking your nearest and dearest for help could prove hugely beneficial. It’s only natural that your loved ones will want to take – and will, in the past, have taken – photos of your special days, so you may find that they have excellent snaps knocking around that could complete your collection.
Having those close to you contribute towards your book can provide a sentimental touch too. Whether they help by either making a particular chapter or page their own or submit any other items they may have, looking back on the photo book in years to come will fill you with nostalgia and appreciation for your family members and friends.
Looking for more hands on hobbies? Check out our article on 10 hands on hobbies to try during quarantine – ideal for creative souls who are looking for a new favourite past time.
An unfussy, expertly cooked omelette is one of life’s great, and easiest, pleasures. You can sex it up with diced tomatoes, peppers, mushroom or ham, but for us, simply egg with a touch of grated gruyere or emmental cheese is perfection. The exterior needs to be set and the middle runny, with the overall mouth feel silky and almost custard like. But enough with the eulogising, let’s get on with it. Here are 5 steps to the IDEAL omelette.
THE RIGHT PAN
Anytime you’re cooking something which is only going to spend a moment in the pan before a smooth, one motion exit back out again, it has to be non-stick. An omelette with pieces left behind in the pan isn’t a good look or texture. Yep, we’re looking for a smooth, plump finish. So, place your pan on a low to medium heat, and add a knob of butter. Wait for it to bubble, but definitely not to brown.
SILENCE, NO SIZZLE
Whisk two eggs in a bowl (don’t whisk them in the pan, it leads to an uneven texture and damage to the non-stick) and add to the pan when the butter has melted and is lightly bubbling. You want silence – no sizzle – as the eggs meet the butter.
DON’T RUSH IT
Yep, we’ve all seen the omelette challenge on BBC One’s Saturday Kitchen. We’ve been impressed with twenty second creations and grimaced at raw ones getting plated and served. But rushing your omelette isn’t going to deliver a good result. Instead, season with salt and perhaps a little pepper and stir gently and entirely with a flat-ended spatula, making sure you’re making contact with the bottom of the pan and covering 100% of its surface area. Keep the heat low and don’t rush.
KNOW WHEN TO REMOVE FROM THE HEAT
When a more stable mixture has formed, add a small line of grated cheese, if it’s your will, down the middle of the circle. Lift up the pan, and should your omelette be able to come away from the sides and move slightly as a homogeneous unit, it’s time to remove the pan from the heat entirely. We still want to the interior to be a little runny, don’t we?
FOLDING FLAIR
Now, starting at one edge, fold it over with your spatula; either in half or by rolling either edge inwards and overlapping each other. The finish is your preference, and the job is done.
Though we’re not the first to say it, and we certainly won’t be the last; the Hungarian capital really has it all. With a splendid setting alongside the Danube river separating it’s two notably distinct sides of Buda and Pest, few cities can rival it’s charming, accessible and lively character. While in recent years it’s gained a reputation as an amazing bachelor party capital, there’s so much more to the big B than that; a fascinating, informative and fun destination for all, we think. With that in mind, here are the 6 IDEAL things to do in Budapest.
EXPLORE DISTRICT VII
Budapest has earned a reputation as being the playground for twenty something hedonists wishing to venture further afield than the usual party hotspots of Amsterdam, Barcelona and the rest. For those folk, District VII is definitely the hippest place in the capital. Though once ravaged by war, left run-down and ruined for many years, after undergoing a restless revitalisation, the historic Jewish corner has blossomed into an up-and-coming cultural hub. Jam packed with bars, cafés and restaurants, the bohemian atmosphere of District VII has been likened to Berlin’s Kreuzberg.
If you’re planning a visit then hitting the ruin pubs with their worn-down pieces of furniture and thrifty interiors should definitely place high on the itinerary. The best of their kind have live music and DJs on the weekends, as well as film nights and art exhibitions. One of our favourites is Mazel Tov which serves up delicious Israeli/Mediterranean food in a green and leafy setting.
TAKE A THERMAL BATH
Thermal Baths are a huge part of the Hungarian lifestyle and Budapest is home to the country’s most famous. Széchenyi boasts the title of Europe’s largest medicinal bath, with waters high in calcium, magnesium and hydrogen carbonate, it’s believed that the water in the baths provides relief for a number of health problems including arthritis, blood circulation and disorders of the nervous system. Széchenyi has a number of indoor thermal pools with below the surface temperatures reaching 40°C and three grand outdoor pools, including an activity pool with a whirlpool. The baths are open all year round, even when it’s snowing. Brrrr. Other popular baths worth checking out are Rudas Baths and Gellért Baths
EXPLORE THE CITY’S HISTORY
Like any other city, the history of Budapest’s is long and varied, with years of wars and invasions behind it. One place where you can learn about the countries chequered past is at the intriguingly named House of Terror. This museum contains exhibits related to the fascist and communist regimes which Hungary went through earlier in their history.
Another glimpse into the city’s past is a heartbreaking memorial known as ‘Shoes on the Danube’. You can find it just in front of the Hungarian Parliament Building, where 60 pairs of 1940s-style shoes are sculpted from steel and true to life in size and detail commemorate the killing of 3,500 civilians killed by Arrow Cross militiamen in Budapest. The victims were ordered to remove their shoes before being shot and falling into the river.
TAKE A TRIP TO CASTLE HILL
Budapest’s Castle District, lying in the hilly west bank of Buda, is home to some of the city’s most important medieval monuments, museums and if that’s not enough, it’s also a Unesco World Heritage Site.
Here, atop Castle Hill, standsBuda Castle, home to the Hungarian kings in Budapest, and overlooks the entire city and offers a wonderful panoramic view of the Pest side. Perhaps our favourite site though is the fairy like fortification of The Fisherman’s Bastion. This impressive neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque structure is yet another place to take in the spectacular views of the city and if you really want your socks blown off, then climb one of the ornate turrets and take in the Budapest panorama. Other sites attractions in the Castle District include Matthias Church, Funicular Railway and the Labyrinth under the Castle Hill.
VISIT CENTRAL MARKET HALL
There are plenty of local delicacies to try in Budapest and for classic comfort food on the go then Lángos, a deep fried flat bread which is served fresh and hot, it’s topped with sour cream, grated cheese, and garlic butter. After one of the best places to get it? Central Market Hall.
This market, in a restored neo-Gothic building, is where you can pick up the best local produce and handicrafts in the city. Other local specialties on your list to sample should include Töltött káposzta, a cabbage stuffed with ground pork and beef, rice, tomatoes and sauerkraut, and like many Hungarian dishes, a generous amount of paprika. You also shouldn’t miss the Hungarian sweet delicacy Szamos Marzipan which even has its own museum. You can sample the famous Tokaji wine and in the basement of the market you’ll find a corner sharing all the information you’ll ever need about the country’s 22 wine regions.
If you’re visiting Budapest in December, then no trip to the city would be complete without a trip to the Christmas market. Each year, the historic Vörösmarty Square is transformed into the annual market, where locals and visitors alike come together beneath the Christmas lights display, with the sound of live Hungarian folk music playing loud and lushly.
Expect authentic food vendors offering everything from traditional dishes such as Goulash soup, sauerkraut, and sour cherry pastries to winter warmers such as raspberry schnapps and apple cider. You’ll find hand painted Christmas decorations for the tree here along with beautifully crafted garlands made of dried fruits, leaves and cinnamon sticks – perfect for dressing your front door when you return home.
The conservation conversation seems to be particularly noisy right now. No longer can we turn the volume down on what’s happening around us; the world is getting hotter, natural disasters more prevalent and the likelihood of doom and gloom is foreboding.
Fortunately, this narrative has now been adopted by the mainstream and fashion isn’t exempt from this. Sustainability is creeping its way up on the agendas of garment technologists across the world, but which materials have taken the most inspiration from nature? With some guidance from CT Shirts, suppliers of high-quality knitwear, here are 4 IDEAL materials for your eco-conscious wardrobe.
HEMP
Hemp is one of the oldest fabrics known to man and it’s widely used to make garments, cloth and clothes. It’s derived from the stem of the hemp plant, and the resultant product shares a lot of similarities with linen. The unique, inherent qualities of hemp help to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer months, making it an extremely versatile choice to incorporate into items for every season. It is also extremely UV resistant, making it great for swimwear.
The hemp plant itself is also pest resistant, meaning that it doesn’t require any harmful herbicides, fungicides or pesticides to yield. An added bonus is that it doesn’t need much water either, and only a small amount of surface area to grow successfully. Plus, as it grows, it returns much of its nutrients it uses to the soil, making it good for the surrounding ecosystem. This product can be turned into fabrics through an entirely organic process as well. There really is no reason not to be wearing it more often.
LINEN
Linen is a common material for a whole host of clothes suited best to warmer climes, renowned for its breathability and comfort – plus, it’s also used in other household items such as bedsheets and towels. However, not many people know that linen is a plant derivative; made from the stem of the flax plant. Growing linen is not an excessive time nor water consuming process and it rivals cotton in its durability. In fact, it gets stronger with each and every wash.
As an organic fabric, when untreated it is biodegradable, making it a brilliant choice for the environmentally conscious among us. Linen products are timeless wardrobe staples, and they look brilliant in white or alternatively muted tones like ecru, ivory, tan and grey.
ORGANIC COTTON
While conventional cotton is notorious for its chemical reliance and dependence on huge amounts of water flourish, the fashion industry has found an alternative, natural product. GOTS cotton has been manufactured to rival traditional cotton, with its production process not requiring any harmful pesticides which have been linked to causing cancer in the past.
This material takes a holistic revision of the classic production methods of cotton, while maintaining all the benefits of being a natural fibre. It is a breathable, sustainable alternative which can be incorporated into various items of clothing. Used by quality brands like Fair Indigo, Peruvian organic cotton is some of the highest quality cotton out there, known for its incredibly soft and long lasting qualities.
TENCEL™ (LYOCELL/MODAL)
TENCEL™, which combines and then dissolves cotton scraps and wood pulp, is sourced from certified sustainable forests. The material is essentially cellulose fibres and it produces a light and multi-purpose fabric, which has soared in availability in recent years. It is 50% more absorbent than cotton, unshaken by moisture, and with an impressive anti-bacterial quality, it is the ideal choice for activewear garments.
In terms of efficiency, it is far cheaper and less resource consuming than producing conventional cotton. As well as this, it is biodegradable which is a sought-after quality in a society which is looking more and more towards finding new ways to limit our input onto landfill sites.
The feeling. Is there any worse? Nope, we’re not talking about the mid-noughties pop group, though they were pretty bad. What we’re referring to is that final morning of your two week vacay.
You all know the drill; sat on the edge of your unmade hotel room bed, a little too sunburnt, way too hungover, clothes swinging off lamp shades and an unmistakable dread about packing, flying and worst of all, going back to work. ‘Can’t I just stay here forever?’, you whisper. Well, there are in fact ways in which you can keep in motion, on the move and in the money. Here’s how; our 5 IDEAL ways to find jobs that let you see the world.
SPREAD THE NET FAR & WIDE
Did you know that reputable, worldwide job boards such as Indeed list remote positions, and that their search function makes it easy to filter as such? There are also websites designed to cater to those in the remote jobs market like the Indeed Flex app, Flex Jobs and Remote Gurus, which are great resources for your specific needs.
Of course, that market is a crowded one; who wouldn’t want to work in countries far flung, fun and financially lucrative?
That means your C.V needs to be particularly on point and appealing, so you stand out from the pack. Should yours need a refresh, try an online free resume maker or take a look at resume examples in your industry to update your existing file or give it a complete overhaul. This is an important component of your search, as you now have worldwide – rather than localised – competition for the same role. An overlooked element of jobs in travel, no doubt…
REDEFINE YOUR ROLE
Perhaps going back to the office isn’t such a drag. Your colleagues offer some amusing asides and in-jokes, your boss isn’t so bad and the work is at times fulfilling. But if your heart is truly set on combining travel with employment, then you could pitch a shifting of roles to your seniors, one which factors in more time on the road
Of course, the proposition needs to make sense and be financially viable, but with an increasingly globalised marketplace constantly shape shifting and evolving, your confidence in dreaming up new business opportunities for your company could well be rewarded.
JOIN AN ESL PROGRAM
If you’re reading this, you likely speak English with a fair degree of fluency. Sometimes that’s all you need for a rewarding career abroad. As such, you may find the most enjoyable path to working abroad is via achieving qualification to teach English as a second language, While some companies require the TEFL certification, some will actually pay for you to take the required courses once you’re installed in your new location. There are many different ESL programs out there. Find one that works for you.
FIND FREEDOM THROUGH FREELANCE
Any kind of freelance job leaves you with time on your hands to work abroad or simply travel. You could be writing, taking photos, blogging, reviewing, reporting, and much more. Whatever your ‘thing’ is, it’s possible to channel it in to paid work. Nowadays, freelance work is well documented online; the web has so many opportunities advertised and available.
If you know how to code (or have the drive to learn), then web developing while on the move could be the answer to your itchy feet. Building websites for other people has never been easier with software and skills acquisition available at the touch of a button. Instead of developing the wwws inside a dingy office in Milton Keynes, why not do it poolside under a tropical sun, cocktail in hand?
WHEN TRAVEL IS THE JOB
Or, you could seek a new role which is defined by travel. As long as you’re not afflicted by vertigo or aviophobia and between the heights of 4’11” and 6’4”, becoming a flight attendant could be your channel into the world of getting paid to see it. Training is typically paid and on-the-job, meaning your adventure could start moving almost as soon as you set that ball rolling. So, what are you waiting for? Alternatively, working on a cruise ship or interrail trains could offer similar perks. Think outside the box and big here.
Believe it or not, though London’s mercury is still barely touching double figures, the warm weather isn’t that far away. The clocks are going forward next week, the summer collections are springing up on the high street, and our pasty complexions will soon be blessed with sun. When the sweat finally forms on your brow, you’re going to need somewhere to cool off.
We’ve got just the idea. Frozen cocktails, essentially boozy slushies, look set to be the drink of the summer. Indeed, trendy slushie cocktails are perennially popular in London when the weather starts to heat up, so, with the help of Snowshock, purveyors of frozen cocktail slush machines, we’re previewing the best places to find them, before they melt. Here are 5 IDEAL places to get frozen cocktails in London.
EL PASTOR
Mezcal is the drink of choice at superb Borough Market taqueria El Pastor, but you’d be missing out on their exemplary frozen margarita if you came here and only stuck to the big M.Theirs is made unique with aguamiel, a type of honey sweet sap extracted from the agave plant. The addition of orange sherbert brings yet another level of intrigue to an already complex cocktail.
When you hear these late-night pizza slice slingers do a fine frozen margarita, you might be forgiven for fearing a cheese’n’tomato number served straight from the freezer. Don’t worry, it’s just a rogue and reckless homophone. But there’s nothing phoned in about their signature cocktail. It uses proper, 6 month aged Olmeca Reposado tequila which brings the punch, complemented by an agave syrup which doubles down on the spirit’s characteristic finish. No half measures here, then.
Website:voodoorays.com Address: 95 Kingsland High St, London E8 2PB, UK
BONE DADDIES
Ramen specialists Bone Daddies have given their frozen margarita a Japanese twist with the beautifully bitter inclusion of yuzu juice. Those bitter notes are augmented by triple sec; Cointreau to laypeople like you and me. The result is a poised, seductive cocktail which works surprisingly well alongside a bowl of ramen, offering respite from the umami bomb of the bowl.
This colourful, underground Mexican bar in Soho offers classic frozen margaritas with a choice of added fresh fruit, purees and liquors. Available in strawberry, raspberry, mango and passionfruit, this one is for those who like to curate their cocktails to match their mood. You have to be a member of The Pink Chihuahua to sample this slushy, but it’s worth the administration process which takes 24 hours and just £5.00.
And before you write this place off as a snooty, exclusive members-only joint, think again. The terms of the premises licence as set out by the council obligate the bar to ensure that everyone who gains admittance to The Pink Chihuahua are registered members or guests of registered members. Bloody bureaucracy.
Website: elcamion.co.uk Address: 25-27 Brewer St, Soho, London W1F 0RR
D/F MEXICO
We’re finishing our cocktail crawl in Shoreditch, at D/F Mexico (DF standing for Distrito Federal, what locals call Mexico City, apparently). Here to go with your burritos, tacos and quesadillas are a choice of frozen margaritas in classic, passion fruit or raspberry and hibiscus flavour. You can make that a 1 litre jug with 4 glasses to share if you’re up for bedding in for a longer session.
With the recent, sad news of Notre Dame and accompanying images of a resilient, proud Paris still fresh in our minds, there has never been a better time to show the City of Love even more. Not only is it one of the most convenient city breaks around, taking little over an hour from A to B, but it’s also one of the most delicious, historical, artistic and romantic. The words ‘something for everyone’ never sounded so succinct.
But with so much out there to entertain and enthrall, in order to get the most from the city, you’re going to need some guidance; a helpful hand to show you the insider tips and tricks to get you truly enlightened in the la Ville des Lumières. With that in mind, we’ve teamed up with Localers, who offer these 7 IDEAL unique private tours in Paris, to explore further.
IDEAL FOR THE PASSIONATE FOODIE: 7TH ARRONDISSEMENT GOURMET PRIVATE FOOD TOUR
From a plethora of patisseries, boulangeries and delicatessens to cute cafes by the dozen, when it comes to food in Paris, there’s so much to see and do. Step off the Eurostar at Gare du Nord or on to the runway at Charles de Gaulle and you’ll immediately be tempted with shops selling cheeses, charcuterie and pastries at every turn. Traditional French Bistro fare like coq au vin and tarte tatin will be endlessly inviting.
Indeed, the sheer enormity of options can turn the streets of the French Capital into a culinary minefield; a Parisdox of Choice, if you will. It’s important in such cases to narrow your options down to a single neighbourhood, and there is no better place for indulging than the 7th arrondissement, home to some of Paris’ finest restaurants.
IDEAL FORTHE SWEET TOOTHED: SWEET SIDE FOOD TOUR OF PARIS
Even if your top button’s undone and your belly bursting, there’s always room for dessert, right? In the suave and swanky Saint Germain des Pres, a two hour walking tour and marathon six(!) sweet treats later, your urge for a taste of the best of French desserts will be sated. On the menu are macaroons, cream puffs, intricate chocolate creations and more. Be sure to bring your camera for this one, the food is so pretty you won’t know whether to eat, photograph or hang it on your wall!
IDEAL FOR THE BUDDING PASTRY CHEFS: PARIS MACARON BAKING CLASS
Still not full?! Well, Paris is one of the world’s great foodie cities after all, so there’s no shame in wanting to keep the focus on food. A macaron class next, then. This session will have you baking the delicious French treats at superstar chef level in no time, complete with so many to take home you’ll be tempted to gift them away to every passerby on Champs Elysee once you’re done.
WithParis private tours on Localers.com, you’ll get access to guides who are proficient in English and French, as well as the global culinary language, meaning no nuance will be missed in the detailed recipes and chef’s tips.
IDEAL FOR THE MORBIDLY CURIOUS: WALK ON THE DARK SIDE OF PARIS – NIGHT TOUR
There’s something about nightfall in Paris, when the City of Light becomes something altogether more mysterious, exciting and, shall we say, a little dangerous. This tour explores the darker side of the city, with macabre tales of murder and mayhem helping you to dig up as many skeletons in Paris’ closet as you can manage in two hours. Not one for the faint hearted, this!
IDEAL FOR THE ART FANS: ORSAY MUSEUM IMPRESSIONISTS PRIVATE TOUR
Paris’ Musée d’Orsay houses some of the world’s most famous paintings, and that’s great, but if you really want to dig deep into the hidden meanings and undiscovered gems of this amazing museum and gallery, a private tour is the only way to go. With the stories provided by expert guides, new life will be breathed into pieces of work already analysed and devoured by the public for hundreds of years. What’s more, you’ll be able to skip the notoriously snaking line, helping you get up close and personal with these great works of art in record time. Lovely stuff.
IDEAL FOR THE REBEL HEARTS: FRENCH REVOLUTION TOUR – ROBESPIERRE & FRIENDS
Vive la révolution! One for the history buffs and rebel hearts, the French Revolution Tour takes you deep into the blood soaked days of the revolution when the country and continent changed forever. Led by a professional storyteller who spins their yarns with skill, the three hour trip is hands on and immersive, with objects and places associated with this ferocious fight for freedom unearthed at every turn.
IDEAL FOR INSTAGRAM ADDICTS: PARIS PRIVATE PROFESSIONAL PHOTO SHOOT
One of the most picturesque cities on the planet, an overactive Instagram habit and a professional photographer? That’s some menage a trois, right there. With so many iconic, romantic backdrops available in Paris, this tour is particularly suited to those engaged and wanting some amazing wedding photos, as well as honeymooners wanting to capture their first flushes on married life. Equally, eager influencers and budding models will find much to cherish with this tour.
businessman saving money concept. hand holding coins putting in jug glass
This just in; a car in 2019 will now set you back an average of £13’000. While obviously not all cars cost that much money (and some considerably more), buying new wheels can put a serious dent in your bank balance. Indeed, it’s one of daily life’s more troublesome dichotomies. That the freedom afforded to you on four wheels is one so many of us struggle to afford. Make that initial outlay just a little bit lighter with these; our 5 IDEAL tips on how to save up for a car.
LEVERAGE YOUR CURRENT CAR
Unless you’ve just turned 16 and you’re wearing your green P sticker with pride, you probably already have a car you’re driving around. Even if it isn’t roadworthy there are ways you can use it to jumpstart your savings for some new wheels. Yep, if you’re buying your new car from a dealership, many provide trade-in options. This is where you give them your old car in exchange for a certain amount of money towards your new one.
It’s important to note that traditionally, trade-ins offer you less money than your car is truly worth. If you want to really get your car’s full value, try selling it yourself. List it for sale online and on social media. Don’t forget to put a for-sale sign in the window as you drive it around; a simple, old school method that actually yields surprising results.
But what if your car is a hunk of junk? Well, many salvage yards buy cars to part out or recycle for materials. Though it may just be a small amount of money in exchange for your car, it’s better than nothing. Before you do think about selling your current car, make sure you know what it’s truly worth. Kelley Blue Book is a good resource to use. This site allows you to enter your car’s specifications and gives you price estimates depending on what avenue you sell it through.
START A SINKING FUND
While selling your current car is a great way to fund your new one, odds are it isn’t going to cover the whole price. The best way to save for a car long term, then, is to start a sinking fund.
A sinking fund is a line item in your budget that you contribute to monthly. So each month when you’re paying your bills, you put aside a certain amount of money to this designated purpose, in this care, a car. For example, if you want to save £6,000 to buy a car, you’d put £500 each month for one year into a specific fund. You’d treat this like any other bill and pay it each and every month before you spend money on extra items. Then, at the end of the year, you’d have money to invest in some new wheels.
USE ROUND-UP APPS
If putting aside £500 a month just isn’t going to work with your current budget, there are other ways to save slowly. Round-up smartphone applications, like Acorns, are great saving and spending monitoring tools. These apps work by connecting to your bank account. For each purchase you make, the app automatically rounds up your purchase to the nearest dollar. So if you make a purchase totaling £5.50, then the app will charge you an additional 50p to bring the purchase price up to £6.
The app won’t actually charge your account for a few pence each purchase. Instead, it will keep track of these small amounts and make a withdrawal from your account when it reaches a specific milestone, such as every £5.
There are also options to set up recurring investments, as small or as large as you want. So in addition to your round-ups, you could save an extra £20 each week without having to move the money over yourself. A lot of people swear by this app because it automatically does the saving and investing for you. You set up your account once and can count on the savings to continue for as long as you like. And when you’re ready to buy your car, it’s simple to withdraw your money.
PICK UP A SIDE HUSTLE
If you’re asking how to get a car fast, then you may want to consider increasing your income. Picking up a side-hustle a short period of time can speed up your car buying process. Even if you already have a full-time job, there are part-time opportunities to fit anyone’s schedule. Consider delivering pizzas at the weekend (free slices an extra perk) or babysitting for friends. The income from a few extra hours of work a week can mean you get your car months sooner than originally planned. And that’s what you’re here for, right? Once you’ve reached your goal, you can switch back to only working one job. But, who knows, you may like the extra money and continue hustling. In the words of Jay Z, you can’t knock it.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FINANCING OPTIONS
If you’ve taken all the above steps and still don’t have the money you need, there are plenty of financing options to help bridge the gap, short term and manageably enough. We recommend staying away from financing your car fully at the dealership. Traditionally, they offer longer loans with higher interest rates. Instead, visit your local bank or credit union to see what they have to offer.
You can even use online banks like Bonsai Finance to get the money you need. The great part about online banks such as these is that they offer no credit check options, meaning your past financial mistakes won’t impact your current car buying.
The Amalfi Coast, or Costiera Amalfitana to the locals, offers one of the world’s most striking and at times hair raising stretches of scenic road on the planet. No surprise, then, that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. The villages rendered in pastel, the verdant blanketed mountains, the drops so sheer they seemingly spill into the ocean below, only to avert your gaze at the last minute towards another stunning vista…it all adds up to one of the most picturesque places on the planet.
Whether you’re all hands on the wheel or leaving the driving to someone else, this one really is as much about the journey as the destination. Along the way, we’re sure you’ll want to make the most of your breaks, with these; our 7 IDEAL pit stops along the Amalfi Coast, Italy.
MARVEL AT AMALFI CATHEDRAL
Amalfi Cathedral, in the Piazza del Duomo, is worth braving the crowds for. Its seemingly precarious perch at the top of a grand staircase bang in the centre of Amalfi town means the cathedral hovers majestically over the popular square below. Its relatively new facade (restored and reimagined in 1891 after the previous one collapsed) is stunning; striped stone and marble frames open arches; simply coming to admire the exterior is reason enough to visit. Inside, the crypt, holding the remains of St. Andrew (to whom the cathedral is dedicated) is full of aesthetic intrigue. The Baroque murals are particularly striking.
TAKE IN THE VIEWS FROM VILLA RUFOLO, RAVELLO
Ravello is a charming little town around 3 miles of bends and braids along and inland from Amalfi. Here, at the top of Villa Rufolo, are reputedly the finest views the whole coast has to offer. The place is a former watchtower, hence the fantastic vantage point which takes in the Tyrrhenian Sea and beyond. In the grounds of Villa Rufolo is a fragrant garden of blossoms. The space hosts the annual Ravello Music Festival, which gives new life to the oeuvre of composer Richard Wagner, who used to love spending time here. We can see why.
STRETCH YOUR LEGS ALONG THE PATH OF THE GODS
If time in the car or coach has given you stiff legs and a touch of cabin fever, there’s no better way to have a stretch and to savour the scenery than by taking a hike along the famous Path of the Gods. Carved into the cliffs and clocking in at roughly 5 miles, this is a great way to take in some views of the picturesque scenes below, as well as the limestone mountains above and micro-vineyards sculpted into the hillside. Most walkers start in Bomerano, a small village with a few amenities and shops.
TAKE A BOAT TRIP TO NAPLES & BEYOND
Though we’re surprised you’d ever want to leave, the option is there to get on a boat and explore a little further south. There are ferries to Naples, via nearby Sorrento, which will have you settled in to one of the world’s finest pizzerias within an hour. And for just €11. Lovely stuff. Or you could really push the boat out (ahem) and look into your own yacht charter, allowing you the freedom to explore as much of the Tyrrhenian Sea and its islands as time and budget allow you.
STOP FOR FRESHLY MADE PASTA & LIMONCELLO IN MINORI
The resort town of Minori, a laid back place with a focus on the fishing industry, is one of the foodie highlights of the Amalfi Coast. So much so, in fact, that it’s known locally as ‘the town of good taste’. Historically, the Minori’s town centre boasted several flour mills, and because of this heritage, fresh pasta is a point of huge pride here. Yep, you guessed it, that equates to some of the best food in the whole of the country. The foodie festival Gusta Minori is perhaps the best time to visit to experience the huge levels of passion the region shows for its cuisine.
What’s more, nearby lie vast swathes of lemon groves where you’ll find the world famous, world class Amalfi lemons growing. It would be very rude not to enjoy a limoncello in such company.
HAVE A DIP AT MARINA DI CONCA
Conca dei Marini boasts one of the area’s more secluded beaches, Marina di Conca, one which is framed by cliffs which make it feel really private. The town’s cove is one of the most beautiful in the region and definitely worth a dip in if you’re passing. To get there, you’ll have to brave a descent of steep stone steps from the road or ride a boat round from Amalfi itself.
WATCH THE SUN SET FROM MARINA GRANDE, POSITANO
When you look at a brochure or travel blog of the Amalfi Coast, you’ll more than likely see Positano pictured at night. The twinkling lights of the village set into an enclave within a hill face, with a sea of yachts and fishing boats as backdrop, is one of the most photographed travel images around. The sunset here, the precursor to this much pictured scene, is perhaps best enjoyed with a grappa from the Michelin-starred Zass’ restaurant terrace; a beautiful way to bring the curtain down on your trip.
You’ve sifted through a huge array of pieces on mindfulness and meditation. You’ve taken a deep breath at the spurious pseudo-scientific claims and let the naysaying wash over you. You’ve allowed a gentle smile to form at the corners of your mouth. Basically, if you’ve come this far, it’s safe to assume that you define yourself as contemplation-curious. Amazing; so do we.
We’re sure, then, that you’ve read a little about the all-encompassing, life-changing benefits of meditation. But what about the changes it can affect in your everyday? With the help of Rosalind Stone, who works with Beeja meditation to provide invaluable, impactfulmeditation courses and classes in London, here are 5 IDEAL ways the practice can help you in everyday life.
LESS STRESS ABOUT THE LITTLE THINGS
Our inbuilt stress response – more commonly referred to as fight or flight – is perfect for life or death situations, such as escaping from a chasing tiger or fleeing a particularly scary clown. Missing an Uber booking, misplacing your phone or not knowing where the queue ends perhaps don’t require such a reaction. But the modern world seems to instil a sense of unease and makes us stressed in nearly every transaction. Indeed, little mishaps and miniature-scale calamities can propel us into a state of primal turbulence all too easily.
Meditation is fantastic for giving us the tools to deal with such stressful situations without our brains (and bodies) automatically resorting to fight or flight. A calmer, more measured approach to problem solving naturally follows as does a more serene, less flappable version of you.
BE HERE, NOW
Do you ever “come back to earth” only to find that many minutes have passed since your eyes and thoughts wandered away from what you were in the middle of?. One of the most vital, fulfilling outcomes of regularly practiced meditation is the ability it grants to live life more in the present moment – the ‘here and now’, if you will. We all know that feeling when we’re reading a book and realise we haven’t taken a word in for ages; or, we’re at a show but can’t enjoy it for the planning or worrying we’re doing about tomorrow’s duties. Whether you feel stuck in the past or too focused on the future, following a ‘here and now’ meditation mantra helps us to keep grounded and present. The result is an enhanced appreciation of the moment and less ‘zoning out’. Read our 5 IDEAL tips on living in the moment over here; you know you want to.
LEARN TO LET GO
A shrug. A gesture of palms raised to the sky. A slight downturn of the mouth and cock of the head sideways. All of these are synonymous with letting it slide, of not reacting disproportionately, of saying to yourself ‘no worries’. Meditation gives us the tools to zoom out, put things in perspective and often helps us to see the bigger picture; something we could all do a little more often. Moreover, it can give us a greater awareness of our thoughts and feelings. As a result, you might find yourself being less reactive and letting go of things that would once annoy you.
AGE WITH ELEGANCE
One of the most imperceptible changes that meditation can bring to your life is also one of its most miraculous. As well as becoming increasingly accepting of the fact that the number of candles on your birthday cake will go up every year – and learning to access the wisdom that this can bring – meditation (it’s been suggested, though there’s still more research to be done) can slow the physical process of ageing. Indeed, studies indicate that meditation can improve many different aspects of our health, the most important in terms of ageing is via its effect on cell regeneration. So, the next time you think you don’t have ten minutes to spare for a few deep breaths and a reconfigure, consider the long term benefits of those few short moments.
AN END TO INSOMNIA
It seems like you can’t even wink 40 times in 2019 without another article about the value of sleep. A sterling seven to eight hours between the sheets has been credited as a low mood alleviator, brain cell repairer, pain reliever, blood pressure reducer, clarity giver and just about any other benefit you can dream up. Why, then, when the positives are this obvious, are we still not taking our sleep seriously? For many, we simply don’t know how to rest, replenish and refresh effectively. After a day of blue lights, deadlines and heavy loads, switching off can be tough.
Well, you’ve probably guessed where this is going right? We’ll say it anyway; the National Sleep Foundation recommends meditation, when combined with other techniques, as an effective way to tackle insomnia. There are a whole host of apps featuring libraries of guided meditations specifically tailored to sleep to get you started. We particularly like Headspace and Calm, though plenty of others are available.
Airbnb has opened up a whole new realm of possibilities for travellers eager to think outside of a certain box made up of check-in desks, identikit furniture, do not disturb signs, a single chair and a T.V you need a telescope to see. Whether it’s castles, treehouses, log cabins or submarines, there really is a dwelling out there purpose built to suit all manner of esoteric tastes. The good news is; many of these quirky places are housed within our very own shores. With that in mind, here are 7 IDEAL Airbnb rentals for a unique stay away in the UK.
LIVE LIKE A KING – GALWAY
If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones (who isn’t?) then this one’s for you; a castle built in the 1400s which could quite feasibly host a scene from the hit series. The host of this pad is offering guests full use of the top two floors of his restored castle, Cahercastle. The master bedroom where guests stay is the highest room in the tower, so you’ll certainly feel like royalty here, overlooking your kingdown – if that’s your kinda thing of course. With access to the parapet, living quarters, kitchen, bath, and master bedroom, it’s time for some serious royal roleplay. The listing is certainly as popular as it is quirky, with Airbnb reporting that Cahercastle is its most visited private room listing ever as of March 2019.
View it on Airbnb here
HOBBIT HOUSE – PENGENFFORDD
If you’re more a Tolkienite than a Targaryen, The Hobbie House, in Pengenffordd, is built underground and is a perfect reflection of Tolkien’s Hobbiton. Shaped after the classic comfort of a Hobbit hole from the master author’s works, this small but cosy space has a wood-fired cooker and (perhaps not chiming with the authenticity of the novels) WiFi access making for the perfect blend of traditional and modern amenities. There are fantastic areas for a good walk, and you can even take the owner’s friendly dog Bear with you on your strolls. Plus, you can’t be a Hobbit without loving a good pint — there’s a pub just down the road from the Hobbit House!
View it on Airbnb here
THE UFO, REBERTH
A sci-fi lover’s dream, this accommodation lets you sleep in a UFO, without the added danger of getting abducted by some fluorescent green aliens. This Airbnb listing is certainly out of this world; a night or two sleeping in a spaceship? Yes please. The UFO comes with all your earthly comforts, such as basic kitchen equipment, video games and WiFi. The futuristic, sleek white décor will certainly beam a smile up your face, while the surrounding seaside resort will let you set your feet firmly back on the ground when needed. Disclaimer: you won’t actually be visiting real, actual space. Sorry.
View it on Airbnb here
THE JET STAR – REDBERTH
Why book a hotel and a flight when you can have both in the same package? Here’s now; the ‘building’ here, named the Jet Star, is a 1970’s private jet plane. Its combination of luxury and comfort is truly the stand out feature here, with all the amenities a guest would expect from both experiences, including WiFi, a fully-equipped kitchen, and electrical sockets. As an added bonus, the cockpit has an Xbox installed with aeroplane-themed games for the budding pilot in you.
View it on Airbnb here
THE GARDEN REFUGE – NAUNTON
If planes, UFO’s and things that fly in the sky aren’t your cup of tea, then nestled away at the bottom of the garden, among the reeds and beside a beautiful pond, is the Garden Refuge; a ‘tiny house’ and a cabin hidden away in nature. This little place uses space so economically that you’ll never feel cramped, with a double bed and a mezzanine offering respite from the hectic, ‘always on’ culture back there at the top of the garden. Hide away from the world with this perfect little digital detox and embrace your inner peace.
View it on Airbnb here
TEMPLAR TREE HOUSE – NARBERTH
Everyone wanted a treehouse as a child, but not many of us were lucky enough to have one. Well, no one like this anyway. How about a treehouse, a private hot-tub, garden, pond, and firepit? Now you’re talking. Now that you’re all grown up, make the most of that new freedom with a trip to the gorgeous Templar Tree House; certain to scratch that age-old itch within every one of us to live in a treehouse. Here, though, there are a number of added indulgences, such as a private hot tub and firepit. Either would make a lovely spot for sipping a glass of wine. Not one for the kids, after all…
View it on Airbnb here
TENT IN THE TREES – NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
If treehouses aren’t quirky enough for you, how about a tree tent? Perhaps channelling the energy of environmental protesters, this one, suspended in the trees of Northamptonshire, is truly how to be one with nature. The host Pauline notes that the closest neighbour to your tent will be Gabe the horse; excellent news for animal lovers and human haters, that.
Snuggle up in the trees as the tent lightly rocks between the branches (your safety is assured, fortunately) and for those who like the idea of falling sleep in a hammock but are too worried about falling out, this will give you a fool-proof way of achieving that same gently-swaying sleep sensation.
