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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR EVERY ASPIRING INTERIM MANAGER

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR EVERY ASPIRING INTERIM MANAGER

Yep, it doesn’t exactly get the pulse racing. The fill in. The backup plan. The sub. The caretaker. But interim management, when viewed in a different light, can take on a far more generous meaning; one of expertise, firefighting, problem solving and day saving. If the latter sounds more like your kind of thing, then you’ll be pleased to hear that interim management, when done with skill and success, can be a full time and lucrative career. And one with a strong work life balance and plenty of autonomy over your life choices, too. If you’re still all ears (or eyes), then read on; our 5 IDEAL tips for every aspiring interim manager.

BE AS OPEN & FLEXIBLE AS YOU CAN

Overseeing a period of transition or change within the company can be a challenging, demanding experience. It can also be a rewarding one, and is a great option for career-focused individuals. To achieve success in this role, flexibility is vital; you’ll be required to be mobile, to travel and to relocate often. Consider the implications  this may have on your family and social life before you take the deep dive.

KNOWLEDGE ISN’T NECESSARILY POWER

Though it may sound counter intuitive, there is a certain benefit to going in blind to a company when filling an interim manager’s role. With this blank slate and the lack of prejudice and preconception associated with it, a clear and all encompassing view of a company, its issues and assets can be achieved. Therefore, embrace the mantra that, for once, knowledge doesn’t equate to power, and view the potential and pitfalls of a place from a fresh vantage point.

BE OPEN TO RELOCATING

The lifestyle of an interim manager is a transient one. As the work is temporary, it is important that you need to be happy to relocate for whatever project comes up, which means that often there will be big changes with each role that you land.

Relocating, often and far flung, is part and parcel of the job, and although that may sound arduous, it is possible to achieve a decent work-life balance as between roles there’s a fair amount of down time.

CONTRIBUTE, NOT EXTRACT

Though it’s tempting to view every assignment, especially ones which are temporary by nature, as an opportunity to extract maximum gains, as an interim manager, the opposite is true. It’s actually better to think about what you can contribute, not extract. Although of course you’ll want to gain experience and capital from any assignment, what’s most important to job success in this filed is the knowledge and wisdom you can give, not gain.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

In terms of your career, taking on a role such as an interim manager can be highly rewarding. You get to work with different companies and lots of different people and help businesses to overcome difficulties. In the process, your C.V gets bolstered and your experience enhanced with each and every role. The best interim managers will have a lasting impact on the company even once their responsibilities have come to an end.

5 IDEAL STEPS TO SELF EMPLOYED SUCCESS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL STEPS TO SELF EMPLOYED SUCCESS

It’s the dream of so many; to work from home, in their pyjamas, with a freshly brewed coffee in one hand, a margherita in the other, and a few emails sent each day enough to earn its keep. The reality of being self-employed, though, is somewhat different. Self discipline, motivation, unreliable incomes and unpredictable hours are just some of the obstacles that can cause you to trip, stumble and fall if you’re not constantly vigilant, alert and on your A game. A few simple measures can go a long way in avoiding these potential pitfalls. These are those; our 5 IDEAL steps to self employed success.

A REGIMENTED ROUTINE

When self employed and particularly when doing so from home, the lines between the working day and period of downtime can become blurred. It’s vital if you’re to make a success of self employment to employ a rigorous, regimented routine that mimics office hours and attitude. This means ceremonious opening and closing of the day so the transition to and from work mode is clear and seamless.

Try to wake up early and at a consistent time each morning, perhaps begin the day with a spot of yoga, and enjoy a light breakfast; all before you first cast your eyes over your email. Then, set about your work in a dedicated space without distraction. That means; no completing house chores, no cheeky half hour on the sofa for Homes Under the Hammer, and no excessive social media use. When the working day is done, make a point of shutting down your computer and placing it in a cupboard; out of sight and mind. An exercise session, brisk walk or meditation at the end of the working part of your day will close things off succinctly.

NETWORK, SOCIALISE, CONNECT

Self employment, especially when your home is also your office, can be an insular thing. Conversation is almost entirely conducted online, with typing fingers rather than wagging tongues, and the cat or dog is quite often your only companion for the day. The obvious need for a bit of human company aside, this isolated way of living can also be detrimental to your work flourishing. It’s important, then, to take every opportunity to network, physically, to get the name of you brand out there and cultivate new working relationships. This could be in the form of conferences, clubs, industry fairs, or even simply a coffee with a colleague you only usually engage with over email.

MANAGE YOUR MONEY AND ASSETS

When you’re self-employed, there’s no such thing as a paid vacation or a consistent pay check. When you’re not working, you’re not making money. You also don’t get any of the financial perks that come with employment like bonuses or pension payments. That’s why it’s vital to manage your money wisely. Keep on top of your tax and national insurance, budget for leaner months and make sure you keep track of all your business expenses and keep the receipts.

Protecting yourself, your company and its assets is so important when you’re self employed, as there’s no fall back or safety net otherwise. It’s vital then that you get proper, all encompassing insurance to help cushion the blow of any unforeseeable problems afflicting your business.  Insurance providers like Sherpa specialise in self-employed insurance for those who run their own businesses, contractors, and freelancers, and this insurance for the self-employed can provide invaluable peace of mind for those who are masters of their own destiny.

LEARN TO SAY NO

It may sound simple, but when working for yourself, uttering that two letter word can be tough. There’s so much more at stake when your income is under your control alone, and sometimes we can take on more than we can cope with. Give permission to yourself to put your foot down, with refusal delivered in a firm but friendly manner, and you’ll soon notice those you’re working with treating you with more respect, not less. If not, then a little reasoning goes a long way; quality of work, not quantity, benefits from learning when and how to say no.

The two letter word should also be applied to friends and family. When you’re self employed, those close to you often don’t understand that you can’t simply take the afternoon off to go to lunch when you make your own schedule.  True, your schedule is flexible, but this doesn’t necessarily mean availability. A late lunch means you’ll probably be up until 1am working to make up for it.

TARGETS

Self employment can sometimes feel like a undirected meander through the day, rather than a purposeful and focused foray. Setting targets, both long and short term, is the key to success when you are your own boss. These don’t necessarily have to be purely focused on income, revenue and money making; personal growth and training should also play a part. This holistic approach to improvement will be more beneficial to your company’s flourishing in the long run, make no mistake.

6 IDEAL THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A PORTABLE AC

Editorial Team
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6 IDEAL THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A PORTABLE AC

Once upon a time, air conditioning and England wouldn’t have shared space in a sentence. But times have changed, the globe is warming, and suddenly, unfortunately, such things need to be considered. During the hazy, hot summer days, the comforting cold air provided by air-conditioning units can be bliss. What’s more, owning a portable air conditioner can be more energy efficient than installing a central system and their dehumidifying capabilities can be useful for those with respiratory issues. The plethora of choice, configuration and specification can be intimidating, however, so with this in mind, here are 6 IDEAL things to consider before buying a portable AC.

ENERGY CONSUMPTION & GREEN CREDENTIALS

First things first. The environmental impact that air conditioning units can have shouldn’t be overlooked. Therefore, it’s imperative that we need to be fiscal when it comes to cooling and consider the effects it has. Naturally, buying an eco-friendly portable AC is essential. Check its Energy Efficiency Ratio to find the most suitable. An AC’s EER tells how much power it consumes from the amount of BTUs required for every power watt. Therefore, high EER equals high energy use. Whenever that can be avoided, it should be.

YOUR ROOM SIZE

Simply put, different portable ACs work for different room sizes. While some can cool large rooms, others only have the power to cool smaller spaces. Most portable ACs, however, cannot reach every corner of your house but rather focus on single, separate rooms. When buying one of these ACs therefore, find one that is appropriate for the size of your room. Those aforementioned BTUs are best used to measure the power of portable ACs and they will guide you in finding the best one. In layman’s terms, a portable AC with high BTUs is ideal for larger rooms. Also, check if the manufacturer has indicated the room size suited for that portable AC and if specified, find one that fits your space.

MAINTENANCE LEVEL

A portable AC with low maintenance requirement is far more hassle free than one requiring bi-annual services, saving you time and money in the process. Cleaning filters and draining out the water collected during the cooling process should be the only maintenance required for such a unit. Some portable ACs even have self-evaporative features that automatically eliminates moisture thus making maintenance even easier.

NOISE

Portable ACs can be very noisy. If you need one for your office or you prefer a less noisy environment, there are various quite models available. Check the decibel levels of these ACs to find one that you are comfortable with. The least intrusive models that exist in the market have, at most, 45dBs.

USABILITY

The good news is; portable ACs are not difficult to operate. However, tasks such as maintenance and settings can be complicated in some models. Before getting a portable AC, know how much of the maintenance and operation work you can handle and find one that works for you. Buy a model that you can comfortably set to perform as you wish and one that you can maintain with ease. 

PLACEMENT

Portable ACs should be placed near a window to allow the hot air coming out of it to flow outside. They have a venting kit that releases hot air, and the manual gives instructions on how and where to position it. If you do not want your portable AC near your window, find a model with a flexible window kit that can extend to a much wider width. Some models also have room for an extension hose that will let you place it in a spot you find fit.

4 IDEAL TIPS FOR STARTING AN AMATUER SPORTS CLUB

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL TIPS FOR STARTING AN AMATUER SPORTS CLUB

Whether you’re a player, spectator, or perhaps even aspiring coach, sports in Britain are everywhere. You’ll find sports enthusiasts in every office, behind every desk, at every bar, and with the current trend for fitness and wellbeing very much up and running in 2019, the potential for amateur sports club membership is broad and enticing. If you’re considering starting your own, then first of all, thankyou! You’re contributing to the positive public health of the nation. Secondly, it’s actually a rather tough thing to make a success of. But with these, your life might be a little easier; our 4 IDEAL tips for starting an amateur sports club.

ESTABLISH LINKS

Sport is so ubiquitous in the UK, and the opportunity to simply lay down jumpers for goalposts in your local park so convenient, that attracting people to a sports club can be tough. It’s vital then to distinguish your amateur sports club from others in the area. If you can make a connection between your sports club and a local pub or restaurant in your community, then you have a fully formed, loyal following straight away. Not only will you have sponsorship and support, but you’ll also have a local base where your team can congregate and foster that all important sense of community.

TARGET MEMBERS & PROFILES

Rather than casting the net wide and hoping you catch some customers, it’s best to target potential members more extensively and once secured, create profiles so you can best cater to their specific needs. This can be done succinctly using club membership software, which allows you to create and manage member profiles and keep track of payments, schedules, and more, and when you learn more about their interests, you can help harbour a stronger sense of commitment from them by building on those specific tastes.

HAVE A CODE OF CONDUCT IN PLACE

Sports, by nature, are competitive, and this should of course be encouraged. A little rivalry can be healthy, fun even, but it’s an unfortunate truth that this can sometimes get out of hand and sometimes requires a code of conduct. Bullying, discrimination and prejudice all have no place in sport, and so having a proper set of rules will nip these issues in the bud before they grow thorns. It’s also wise to give your members and athletes some training on equality so they can set a good example to the community through their responsible, caring behaviour.

A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

Sports clubs, whether at an amateur, semi or professional level, all have the health, wellbeing and fitness of their members as their primary responsibility. Without a 100% commitment to excellence, the sole purpose of your club fails. So, do everything within your power to make your club the very best it can be, and your clients, members and customers will reach their potential accordingly.

6 IDEAL WAYS TO STICK TO A HEALTHY DIET

Editorial Team
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6 IDEAL WAYS TO STICK TO A HEALTHY DIET

The sun shone brightly over the Easter weekend, barbeques were lit accordingly and for the first time in 2019, thoughts turned to the tyranny of the term ‘summer body’. But what a nonsense that is. And with the news recently of Beyonce’s extreme, unsafe fasting routine to get prepped and primed for Coachella, light has one again been cast on the lengths we’ll go to in search of the unattainable, ‘perfect’ physique.

Whether that’s through low carb, 5:2, cabbage soup, or a keto diet, there really should only be one regime we follow; a healthy, balanced one. With that in mind, here are 6 IDEAL ways to stick to a healthy diet.

GOOD & BAD FOOD DOESN’T EXIST 

We need to cut out the guilt and shame surrounding food. If you want to stick to a healthy diet, then you’ve got to learn that there’s no such thing as good or bad foods, only bad diets. While it’s obvious that certain foods are healthier than others, labelling our food as such is a dangerous game. When we do so, we often restrict or completely deprive ourselves of bad foods, which in turn can lead to binge eating and disorders.

We’ve also got to stop the all or nothing approach which goes hand in hand with labelling food. To stick to a healthy diet, make ‘everything in moderation’ your mantra. Basically, all that we can be truly sure of is best practice equals a balanced diet where nothing is done to excess. 

LEARN ABOUT NUTRITION

To sustain a healthy diet, it’s important to know something about the nutritional values of food. That said, there’s so much confusion over nutrition and time and time again the lines are redrawn about what may or not be healthy.

At the start of the new millennium, for instance, the focus was all on calories, and not exceeding their arbitrary limits. But recent wisdom has adapted, suggesting that not all calories were created equal. Intelligence regarding fat has also shapeshifted, with science now recommending doing away with a daily ceiling being put on fat consumption, and instead focusing on replacing saturated fats with ‘healthy’ ones.

So even if the scientists can’t decide what’s good for you and how to eat healthily, how can you? Well, it’s important to get to grips with the nutritional value of what you’re putting in your tummy. As such you can make an informed decision about what you’re eating and balance your diet accordingly. Sites like the British Nutrition Foundation and the NHS’s Eat Well advice can help guide you.

INTUITIVE EATING

A wise man once said that the key to contentment is to sleep when you’re tired and eat when you’re hungry. And with all the configurations and complications of recent fad diets, doesn’t the simplicity of those sage words sound so liberating? So, rather than militant avoidance of foods deemed detrimental to your diet, instead, why not practice eating deliberately and attentively, noticing when you’re getting full and not overdoing it thereafter.

By truly listening to your body and the signs it gives you day in and day out, you’ll develop a more beneficial relationship with it and the food you consume. Developing greater intuition will make dieting more cohesive, controllable and ultimately, providing that healthy diet you’re looking for. 

MINDFUL EATING

Ironic, isn’t it? A meal can be the most nourishing, fulfilling and fun part of the day, the part you’ve planned, looked forward to and prepared so enthusiastically. Yet it’s also one of the things which brings most guilt and discomfort. When that plate hits the table, we wolf it down as though eating’s an annoyance; an obstacle to our Twitter, telly or typing that we can’t wait to dispense with.

We’re doing it so wrong. By incorporating elements of mindfulness and meditation into our dinnertime, not only will we avoid digestion issues, but we’ll also enjoy a whole new appreciation of the pleasures of both food and of life. As such, we can develop a healthier relationship with food, and a more positive one. Once you have a more appreciative view of food and its benefits, sticking to a healthy diet can feel much more mangeable.

TAKE CONTROL IN THE KITCHEN

Fast food, ready meals and not knowing what’s in your food ….these are the real enemies of a healthy, balanced diet. When you lose touch with what’s in your dinner, then you leave yourself open to chemicals, preservatives and unnecessary added fats, salts and sugars, not to mention the fact that the deliciousness is dialled down several notches. Rather, do your best to take back control by cooking as much as you can (time, money and skill permitting, of course) yourself, in the process knowing exactly what’s going in your food and what’s not.

Take this a step further by cooking very much with the seasons in mind. Right now, spring vegetables are starting to taste their freshest and most vivid; what better excuse to incorporate more into your diet?  Again, remember moderation and balance is key and once in a while, there’s nothing wrong with a bit of fast food.

BODY POSITIVE

We’re only here for a short time, and the only diets and health regimes to follow should be the ones you impose on yourself with self care and self love as the goal. Everyone is beautiful, special and unique. Don’t compare yourself to others, or worse, their heavily edited online versions. Instead, try to be the best version of yourself, defined by you and you alone, and it that means benching a diet that isn’t making you happy, then don’t feel any shame in doing so.

*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP first*

5 IDEAL HOME REPAIRS FOR DIY BEGINNERS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL HOME REPAIRS FOR DIY BEGINNERS

When something breaks or goes wrong in your home, depending on the size and severity of the problem, it can cost a pretty penny to fix. To understand the scale of financial burden, picture this; most property experts recommend putting aside 1% of your home’s purchase every year in a savings account to deal with routine maintenance issues – so if your home cost £300,000 you should budget £3,000 per year for maintenance.

That’s some serious money. And while it’s impossible to predict what might go wrong and the potential cost to fix it, learning some DIY skills can certainly lessen the damage. As the saying goes, if you want a job done well without breaking the bank, do it yourself. Not only will investing time in learning certain do-it-yourself skills save you money, but it can also give a real sense of empowerment and self-sufficiency. Practice makes perfect, so with this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL home repairs for DIY beginners.

YOUR KITCHEN SINK

Blocked drains, a leaky faucet and clogged sinks are an inevitable part of domestic life and something that happens to all of us at one time or another. While it may seem like a task best left to professional plumbers, you can do it yourself as this wiki guide shows. From unclogging your drain, fixing that leak, repairing your faucet, to even replacing the entire sink, you can repair it yourself with just a little knowhow. Just don’t let your friends know your newly learnt skills or you’ll be called in for favours with abandon.

MINOR GAPS IN BRICKWORK

Over time gaps in your home’s plaster and brickwork can occur, which means your house could be susceptible to draughts coming in through the cavity in the wall. For minor repairs, this can be solved quite easily with the application of a little industrial foam. This behaves a bit like hair mousse; it expands upon release and sets in the gap you’ve created. No fuss, no muss, no mess. If you’re worried about using this, then take a look at this guide on expanding fillers to put your mind at ease.

For a larger remedy of these gaps, you should consider hiring a contractor to fulfill your repointing brickwork needs. This can preserve the structural integrity of a building, as well as prevent further damage from weather and pests. Furthermore, this can also add to the property value as a well-kept exterior adds to the kerb appeal and factors such as temperature regulation.

LAYING TILES

For an amateur DIY-er, tiling can seem a daunting task. It isn’t as hard as you might think, however, and can save the expense of having a tradesman come and do the task for you. That said, a successful job requires careful preparation and finesse. There’s a technique to it, and you’ll need a notched adhesive spreader, grouting and a tile spacer among other things to complete the job.

Before your start the job, estimate how many tiles you’re going to need then add 10% onto that – some will get dropped, trust us. If you are having trouble choosing the tiles to fit your space, a leading tile retailer such as Standard Tile in NJ will have experts on hand that are able to help you choose the perfect bathroom tile, backsplash tile, and tile for anywhere in your home. They even have kitchen and bathroom visualisers to help you envisage the room with the new tiles you have in mind, which can give you insight into what the final look would be.

Once the decisions are made, the key aspect here is to make sure your tiling is balanced and straight; your spirit level will be your best friend during this task.

CHANGING A LIGHT FIXTURE

How many readers does it take to change a lightbulb? Well, with no electrical experience whatsoever, it’s actually possible to change a whole lighting fixture. No punchline to be found here, we’re afraid. With a little guidance, of course, it’s a simple task once you’re familiar with the necessary steps.

This handy DIY guide on how to replace a light fixture and fix the wires into the new terminals in the fitting reveals all you need to know. Just take your time and remember to turn off the power at the mains unit before beginning work on your light fitting, not just the light switch. If you don’t, a nasty surprise in the form of a shock awaits.

PLASTERING AND PAINTING

If you have a wall at home that has peeling paint or there’s evident imperfect plastering in your domestic space, learning how to fill the scratches and holes with putty, how to sand them down and paint them over is a definitely a skill worth knowing. The technique may look exacting and difficult, but even smaller cracks can be fixed with a very simple application of filler before sanding and painting.

5 IDEAL REMEDIES FOR THE NATURAL TREATMENT OF PARASITES WHEN TRAVELLING

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL REMEDIES FOR THE NATURAL TREATMENT OF PARASITES WHEN TRAVELLING

Thinking of embarking on a round the world travelling adventure, seeing all the sights your eyes can perceive and eating as many local delicacies as you can stomach? Well, don’t let the horror stories of bugs, parasites and the rest found in street food stalls with less than sanitary practices put you off. While fortunately these media stories are few and far between, these little critters can occasionally make their way into your body through various sources like pork products, shellfish, unclean water, and other contaminated food.

But our obsession with eating around the world won’t be diminished by this, and neither should yours. Of course, you should always see a doctor and get the proper treatment and medication should you become the victim of a parasite, but there are also a host of natural remedies that some health practitioners recommend to help cleanse the body and ward off parasite infections. These are those; our 5 IDEAL remedies for natural treatment of parasites when travelling.

GARLIC

When it comes to homemade remedies, the natural anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants in garlic are widely harnessed to combat a number of health problems. It’s no surprise, then, that garlic is one of the most common natural ingredients used to destroy parasites and also reduce unwanted microbes in your gut. It contains a broad spectrum of antimicrobial properties that fight not only parasites but also bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Apart from killing parasites, garlic can counteract the growth of worms in your body; a double win, we think. As if that wasn’t enough, the magic ingredient can also purify your intestine and as such, is often recommended to patients suffering from stomach upsets, diabetes, and hypertension. Is there anything this bulb can’t do?

BLACK WALNUT

Black walnut contains large quantities of juglone, one of the essential cytotoxic compounds that the body requires to give gut health a boost. Experts believe that juglone can fight many bacteria and parasites such as Aspergillus sp., Hansenula sp., Penicillium sp., Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and S. aureus, when deployed carefully and correctly. Its mildly laxative nature can serve to eliminate dead microbes and may even protect your cardiovascular health, too. Moderation with this one is key, however.

SWEET WORMWOOD

The function of sweet wormwood is similar to that of organic health pills, helping to prevent parasite infestation and purify the body from various toxins. Sweet wormwood is a potent antiparasitic agent that improves the immune function of the user. Many studies have also suggested that this herb has anti-cancerous, anti-inflammatory, and immunoregulatory properties that are useful for the human body. We await further scientific findings with a keen eye.

PUMPKIN SEEDS

Pumpkin seeds contain high amounts of fatty acids, amino acids, Palatine, cucurbitine, and berberine. A lot of impenetrable jargon? Yep, us too. But to simplify, research on these seeds shows that they are excellent in fighting intestinal parasites, with an anti-parasitic property which not only kills parasites and prevents them from growing but also keeps your immune system healthy. Additionally, you develop a better digestive system because your intestines are free from the parasites that usually cause stomach upsets and chronic fatigue. A super seed, make no mistake.

GRAPEFRUIT SEEDS

Speaking of which, grapefruit seed is also a popular remedy in fighting parasites as it contains high quantities of citrus bioflavonoids. This is a highly effective compound with anti-microbial and antioxidant properties. Herperidin, present in grapefruit seed, is well-known for its antimicrobial effects. Experts explain that these seeds combined with geranium can kill parasites in your body and prevent them from growing back again. The high potency phytochemicals in these seeds have anti-parasitic, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR CHOOSING YOUR NEXT WATCH

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR CHOOSING YOUR NEXT WATCH

As a wise woman once said; ‘time is money’. And in a roundabout, convoluted kinda way, you’re welcome to spin that wisdom into the perfect excuse to buy a new watch. It’s a purchase that requires some serious foresight, however. Without wishing to bring your personal hygiene into it, a timepiece is more than likely the only item you’ll wear, day in, day out. As such, it needs to be understated yet a statement, to blend in with your style as a whole yet stand out as a piece on its own. A lot to consider then, so with the help of Babla’s Jewellers, here’s our 5 IDEAL tips for choosing your next watch

FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION

Well, in the watch world, perhaps not. But before you go shopping for new wrist candy, you’ll need to decide exactly what you want from your watch. In the modern world, it’s unlikely you’re going to be genuinely reliant on it to keep time, though of course it needs to do that accurately to keep up the facade that it’s something more than glorified jewellery. If you’re looking for your watch to do more for you, like monitor your steps, your heart rate, serve as an alarm and the rest, then obviously a smartwatch is a smart choice. If you’re seeking precision, for the sake of training or work, then something durable and digital is your best bet. But more often than not, the watch’s appearance and level of comfort are the dealbreakers. In this case, form triumphs over function.

MOVEMENTS

So let’s assume you’ve settled on an analog watch for appearance’s sake (the less said about hybrid watches, the better). Sorry to get technical, but ‘movements’ are something you’ll now need to consider. Often described as the beating heart of your watch, these movements are what makes things tick, literally. Generally speaking there are three options available; quartz, mechanical or automatic. Each has its pros and cons.

Of note, a quartz watch’s second hand sees each second tick whilst a mechanical’s second hand has a sweeping motion. Since quartz is battery powered, it’s generally reliable and low maintenance, but lacks that high level of craftsmanship so beloved of watch connoisseurs.

Mechanical watches, on the other hand, rely on a wound spring and gears to keep things moving, a problem as they’re more liable to break down. What’s more, they need winding at regular intervals.

Finally, an automatic watch runs on the kinetic energy transferred from the wearer’s wrist movements, the big detriment being that once the watch hasn’t been worn for a while, it stops. But nothing can beat the window view into the back of these watches; the cogs and mechanisms in motion simply look so cool.

WARDROBE OVER WRIST

When honing in on the perfect watch, it’s really important that you consider the colours and styles which make up your wardrobe. As we’ve already established, your watch is more about looking good than actually telling the time, but it’s amazing how many buyers neglect to really consider how the watch’s look will fit in with their overall sense of fashion. If you like to dress from a minimalist, monochrome colour palette, for instance, then a watch with a tan strap is going to look really out of place and disrupt the whole synergy of your look. Should your style be channelling that 90s spirit (so back in fashion right now) then perhaps a Tommy Hilfiger watch in rose gold would be a good fit. Pull your focus away from the watch and think holistically here, we think.

KEEP THE STATEMENT SUBTLE

Yes, we’re all about the statement watch. After all, they’re an investment and as such need to be a piece that you’re proud to wear on any occasion. Versatility, which is found through keeping things subtle and not showy, is the key here. Subtlety of course takes many forms, but as a rule, keep the bling minimal and the golds and silvers reserved for accessorising rather than making up the main body of the piece. Most importantly, keep the watch face size harmonious and in accordance with your wrist size; in general a standard face should be 26-29mm and a mini watch’s 23-25mm in diameter.

CONSIDER INTERCHANGEABLE BANDS

With versatility the name of the game, it might be wise to get a watch which has interchangeable straps, therefore allowing you the freedom to colour coordinate with your outfit a little easier. Supplement bands in all manner of different shades will only set you back about a tenner per piece.

4 IDEAL LONDON NEIGHBOURHOODS TO BRING OUT YOUR INNER COOL

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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4 IDEAL LONDON NEIGHBOURHOODS TO BRING OUT YOUR INNER COOL

If you live outside of the capital, then London chic can be a confusing thing. While the stereotyping might have you believe that everyone rocks a handlebar moustache and cape, and skateboards to their favourite bubble tea purveyor, in reality, parts of the capital are still the epitome of cool and individuality.

Each borough seems to have its own style and swagger just waiting to be explored, and with efficient London transport allowing you to easily get around the city, there really is no better time to get amongst it than now. With this in mind, here are 4 IDEAL London neighbourhoods that will bring out your inner cool.

CAMDEN

Once home to punks and mods, Camden has long been the choice for alternative and creative people to call home. Weird, wonderful, eclectic and eccentric, Camden Town is a great night out, with its live music and bohemian vibe attracting esoteric tastes and textures from all across town and beyond. Lovely stuff.

Home to world famous music venues like The Roundhouse and Koko, a big name show is guaranteed pretty much every night of the week here. The six Camden markets are perhaps the biggest attraction here, and are a great way to while away a weekend browsing vintage items and eating glorious street food.

BRIXTON

Brixton, forever evolving and shapeshifting but always proud and staying true to its roots, is one of London’s most famous districts. The vibe is boisterous and welcoming from morning to night, and the options for things to do, watch and eat, grow more plentiful as each day passes.

Brixton Village, the indoor market just a short walk from the station, is the focal point of much of the culinary fare, and crowds flock here every night of the week to experience the buzz and bites. Particularly good restaurants in the area include Nanban, Kricket and Chishuru.

Pop, Brixton | ©Ted and Jen/Flickr

Brixton also boasts a couple of the city’s best venues, attracting musicians and artists from across the spectrum of popular music. The O2 Academy is one of the country’s leading (and one of its largest non arena) venues, with everyone from Madonna to the Smiths having graced its stage.

Just down the road, Electric Brixton caters to more urban tastes, with the biggest grime, hip hop and d’n’b names playing here regularly. The Ritzy Cinema and Cafe is another hugely cherished venue, a grade two listed building and one of England’s oldest cinemas. For those up for carousing late into the night, Brixton institution the Prince of Wales is the place to be.

SHOREDITCH & HOXTON

Shoreditch needs little in the way of introduction. Before you can even say ‘Shhhh’ you’ll have heard an exhaustive, exhausting roll call of cliche and misconception. Of folk so tattooed they’re more ink than blood. Of nitro brewed, supercharged, butter infused coffee at supercharged prices which you can only enjoy in a shed or something. Of culturally appropriated food served off a penny farthing.

Anyway, it’s all bollocks. The only sweeping statement we can make about this magical corner of London town is that it’s still a bloody exciting place to be, even if it’s no longer a secret.

The food scene is unequivocally London’s best, with Lyle’s, Brat, Clove Club and Smoking Goat all slinging their food not far from the high street. There’s also amazing covered markets in the form of Dinerama and Brick Lane within, and Spitalfields right on the doorstep. Then, there’s the quirky nightlife, with hipster hotspots XOYO and Nightjar just two of a plethora of speakeasies and basement boozers. You’ll never want to leave.

PECKHAM

Once associated with Del Boy, Rodney and having the cheapest property on the Monopoly board, Peckham is now home to perhaps the hippest, most forward thinking scene in all of London. That’s some turnaround and we can’t get enough of it. People come here to eat and drink, make no mistake, and two of the best places for the latter are the Bussey Building and Frank’s Cafe.

Frank’s is pitched atop a car park with stunning views of the City; perfect for a few sundowners before boarding the Bussey, a former cricket bat factory which is now an all-encompassing arts venue replete with exhibitions, live music and the opportunity to get down. The food scene here is one of London’s most exciting, too, so much so that we’ve written more about it here. Check it out.

Flickr/Thomas Brasington

Also pivotal to the pride of Peckham is its groundbreaking music, with famous sons from the area including Giggs and Fat White Family. The aforementioned Bussey as well as Peckham Festival (held annually in September) are just two places to catch local, up and coming artists.

4 IDEAL U.K CAMPING SITES FOR YOUR SUMMER STAYCATION

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL U.K CAMPING SITES FOR YOUR SUMMER STAYCATION

There’s no place like home, as the old adage goes. And it seems like us Brits are going to have to take that mantra well and truly to heart this summer. It’s not like we don’t have form; a study found that 93% of Britons headed off on at least one holiday within the UK last year, equating to a whopping £13 billion in money spent holidaying without having to leave the country.

A huge part of this lucrative market is camping, with our fair isle boasting some of the best beauty spots around. Alfresco, in nature, under the stars and at home…..what could be better? So, whilst we’re not suggesting a trip to Durham to dance to ABBA in your mum’s garden, once it’s deemed safe and responsible, we’re looking forward to exploring home turf a little more. With this in mind, we’ve teamed up with Motorparks, who sell used cars, to give you these; our 4 IDEAL U.K camping sites for your summer staycation.

CAOLASNACON, KINLOCHLEVEN, ARGYLL

Sitting on the edge of Loch Leven, Caolasnacon combines breath-taking views with idyllic, lush scenery. And this back to basics, at one with nature vibe, is what this is all about, right? The campsite offers visitors the chance to pitch their tents right by the water, meaning you won’t run out of activities to keep yourself entertained and exhilarated, with water sports including wind-surfing a particular favourite of the thrill seekers. Or, if you prefer to keep dry, the climbing and hiking trails nearby give unrestricted access to the local wildlife. Loch Leven is home to otters in abundance and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a golden eagle. Majestic.

Opening season is Easter until October every year. From £10 per tent for two people.

BAY VIEW FARM, LOOE, CORNWALL

This site at Bay View Farm, in Cornwall’s Looe, sits right on the South West Coast Path, offering uninterrupted sea views which are considered some of the best in the country. The recent glamping hype is very much catered for here, meaning you don’t have to slum it here if you’re still seeking a holiday blessed with a few home comforts.

The snugs, which look out over Looe bay, provide holidaymakers with a few perks not provided with standard camping. Power-sockets, Wi-Fi and most importantly a full-size double bed mean the lines are blurred between domestic and slumming it, but to us, it’s the best of both worlds. Perhaps the thing that sets Bay View Farm apart is the nearby monkey sanctuary; a great day out for all the family.

Open all year round and charged at £20 per pitch which allows for two adults and two children.

HOOKS HOUSE FARM, ROBIN HOODS BAY, NORTH YORKSHIRE

Sticking with scenery and a view to remember, Hooks House Farm in North Yorkshire keeps the vibe going and perhaps even betters our previous two choices. The site’s grassy slopes wind down and around the high hill right the way until you reach the sea. Considered the ideal starting point for anyone wanting to commit to the notorious, 20 day coast-to-coast walk from here to St. Bee’s Head in Cumbria, if you’re a fan of trekking, this is the ultimate place to start. What’s more, the local beach on Robin Hoods Bay offers opportunities for rock pooling and fossil hunting, while just a 15-minute walk away is the local museum.

Between March and October, the site will remain open. From £7 for adults and £3 for children.

BAYSBROWN FARM, GREAT LANGDALE, LAKE DISTRICT

Situated in the beautiful Great Langdale Valley, what sets this campsite apart is the spontaneity it encourages; you don’t book a pitch here, you just arrive and find a space. Acres of flat ground belong to the farm, sitting at the base of the Lake District’s mountain range, providing a picturesque backdrop for happy campers.

But when the scenery is this good, you won’t want to spend too long in your tent. Rise early and set off hiking through the routes that include Crinkle Crags and Scafell Pike. For anyone looking to escape from the pressures of modern life, this campsite is just the ticket.

This site is open from March through to October. From £6 per adult and £3.50 per child.

4 OF THE MOST ACCESSIBLE CITIES IN THE UK

Travel Team
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4 OF THE MOST ACCESSIBLE CITIES IN THE UK

The UK has 69 different cities, some big, some small, some famous, many not so, and let’s be frank, some which are far more accessible than others. Indeed, only a handful can proudly claim to be properly friendly to people with disabilities. Others, it’s sad to say, present problems to those with mobility issues wanting to use public transport. We can and we should be doing so much better. From step-free access, ramps and lifts, to venues that have a hearing loop and restaurants that have menus in Braille, there are so many ways to better cater for those who have accessibility needs. Fortunately, there are some cities way ahead of the pack, setting an example to the rest and helping the disabled live their life with as little obstruction as possible. With the help of Lookers, motability dealers, here are 4 of the most accessible cities in the UK. 

LONDON

London is reputed to be one of the world’s leading wheelchair accessible cities and that inclusivity is of course huge cause for celebration. Some of the best things to do in the city include:

  • SIGHTSEEING BY BOAT – From sightseeing tours by bus to guided museum trips, there are many accessible tours available in London. One of the best, however, has got to be by boat. Indeed, one of the easiest and most picturesque ways to see the sights of London is by cruising down the Thames. Setting sail at sunset serves up spectacular, scenic views of London, and is a great way to see day turning to night in the capital.
  • SIGHTSEEING BY BUS – One of the easiest and cheapest (and in our view, best) ways to travel around London is by bus. All London buses are low-floor and fitted with a hydraulic ramp and as such, are able to ‘’kneel’ to the curb, making it easy for wheelchair users to roll on. They also have a designated space for wheelchairs from which you can see the streets of London as you travel. And the best bit? You can travel on London buses for free if you’re a wheelchair user.
  • THE BLACK CAB EXPERIENCE – You can’t come to London without experiencing a ride in one of the city’s iconic black cabs, all of which are wheelchair-accessible (well, the licensed ones anyway). ‘The Knowledge’ – which you’d be forgiven for thinking is some sort of London cult – is something all cabbies must know in order to get their license and involves learning by heart the some 320 routes through the 25,000 streets of London. This atlas of London, imprinted in black cabbies brains typically takes between two and four years to learn and part of the process involves having to remember 100,000 landmarks and being able to navigate between them. These black cabs are easy to hail from the street, but you can also make advanced bookings online or via the phone by this one number: 0871 871 8710.

GLASGOW

If you’re struggling for inspiration for somewhere to visit this summer, then look no further than Scotland’s largest city. Although its sister, Edinburgh, may boast the castle and beautiful Royal Mile, Glasgow is by no means behind the capital city. Deemed as one of the most accessible cities in the UK, the cultural hub offers a vibrant buzz like no other. Getting to Glasgow in the first place, just like your time when you’re there, is fairly stress free. Queen Street and Central are train stations slap bang in the middle of the city, while the two airports offering international travel are Glasgow and Prestwick. Some of the best things to do in the city include:

  • SHOPPING – Thanks to the Clyde, and Glasgow’s relationship with ship-building, much of the city is flat. The shopping scene is no different and offers so much more than most of its UK counterparts in terms of variety. Argyll Arcade is the ideal choice if you’re looking to take advantage of the chic jewellery options on offer. On the other hand, the St Enoch Centre hits the 21st century with a bang, offering a modern, sleek shopping experience. The best news it that both offer wheelchair access and similarly smooth-covered flooring to allow ease of movement.
  • A TRIP TO THE CLYDE – Unlike most other major attractions in the world that require climbing thirty steps before even getting a glimpse of a view, the Clyde has wheelchair access and is often resurfaced in order to make the journey as smooth as possible. Not only does this make the travel that little bit easier, but it also allows you to take on the beautiful Glasgow quayside at your own pace and steam.
  • GO KARTING AT THE EXPERIENCE – Scotland’s only dedicated accessible karting track, The Experience offers individuals the opportunity to race go-karts at up to 35mph. Not only is the entire building based on the ground floor, but the company have also invested in hoists and slings to assist those with access issues get into the karts. Depending on your need, they can either race you round and you be the co-driver, or alternatively, you can take the wheel yourself. Either way, the adrenaline will soar. Result.
  • VISITING THE TALL SHIP – Perhaps being on land isn’t your thing. If not, say bon voyage and roll aboard the Tall Ship. The tourist attraction, docked on the Clyde, has lift access on board, which allows you to reach the tea room in the deck below. Also, if you don’t have a car, there is a wheelchair accessible bus which runs throughout the day and stops less than 100m from the entrance.

BELFAST

The Northern Irish capital, despite years of slow growth, has recently began to establish itself as a diverse, cosmopolitan British city. Some of the best things to do in the city include:

  • VISITING THE TITANIC – Fast becoming renowned as one of the UK’s must see tourist attractions, the Titanic Museum, which takes visitors through the iconic ship’s creation, is fully wheelchair accessible. Visitors can explore never before seen artefacts and experience the fascinating engine room replica.
  • A BLACK CAB TOUR – The taxi service which runs through Belfast areas, such as the Falls and the Shankill, is the best way to learn about the history of the Troubles. All cabs have wheelchair access and do pick-ups from the major transport links at Great Victoria Street or Laganside.
  • A TRIP TO GIANTS CAUSEWAY – Known indigenously as the eighth wonder of the world, the rock formation on the North Antrim coastline provides some of the most breathtaking and idyllic scenery in the world. In recent years, a multi-million-pound visitors centre was established, and a wheelchair accessible bus now runs, transporting people down to the stones.
  • EXPLORING THE CATHEDRAL QUARTER –The number of bars within the city’s bustling nightlife area, the Cathedral Quarter, has increased ten-fold in recent years. With all the bars providing wheelchair access, and live music a staple on at least six nights a week, The Dirty Onion, the Duke of York and the Thirsty Goat, all exist as top-notch watering holes.

CHESTER

In 2017, thanks to a concerted effort on development and diversity over several years, Chester became the first UK city to win the coveted European Access City Award. Some of the best things to do in the city include:

  • VISITING THE THE CITY WALLS – Undoubtedly Chester’s most stunning piece of scenery. If a wheelchair user visits most major historic attractions throughout the world, they’ll find accessibility a barrier to the full experience. This is because making alterations to a historic structure is often impossible. In Chester, however, the walls are surrounded by a mixture of gently sloping paths, and on occasions where wheelchair access isn’t available for heritage reasons, additional handrails have been positioned.
  • RETAIL THERAPY TWO-TIER SHOPPING – The concept, which may seem confusing to someone who hasn’t seen it before, is exactly it says on the tin. Shops on top of shops might be an ever-present feature in shopping centres in the 21st century, however, the Chester Rows have been around for 700 years. Nowadays, you’ll find designer labels but back in the middle ages, ironmongers and shoemakers would have made their money here. In order to get to the second level of shops, visitors usually take the stairs.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR ATTRACTING NEW CLIENTS TO YOUR BUSINESS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR ATTRACTING NEW CLIENTS TO YOUR BUSINESS

It’s a fact no business should treat lightly. That a company which fails to attract new clients, is a company which will fail. Easier said than done, we hear you say. Well, actually, it’s easier done than said with a few simple tricks. So whether you’re a new start-up looking to snag your first few clients or a much larger organisation looking to boost your base and stay ahead of the competition, these are for you; our 5 IDEAL tips for attracting new clients to your business.

DEFINE & TARGET YOUR IDEAL CLIENT

Sure, you could make a stab in the dark, and cast your net far, wide and indiscriminately. But in doing so, you’d be wasting time and resources by not reaching potential customers quickly and efficiently. Instead, it’s prudent to be more precise when it comes to winning over new clients. This is possible if you know exactly what time of consumer you wish to attract. It’s imperative, then, to define exactly who your target market is and then think about their shopping, spending and consuming habits so that you can identify the best strategies for winning them over. Before ‘how’, it’s crucial to know ‘who’.

DIGITAL MARKETING

Internet marketing is essential in today’s digital age as this is how a niche company online is able to compete, even beat, against the bigger names in your specific industry. With such a nuanced approach, it’s vital that getting your name out there on the web is carried out by an experienced digital marketing agency who can offer a variety of services to increase your visibility online.

MAKE A CONNECTION

While so much meeting, greeting and schmoozing now takes place online, the power of a human connection should not be overlooked or underestimated in the world of business. Sometimes, to truly engage and nurture a productive and healthy working relationship, you have to feel the palm of your potential client, and look them in the eye. While clients primarily look for the best deals financially first and foremost, you’ll also find that they opt for businesses that they feel a connection with as they’ll want to feel valued. This means meeting in person, showing a genuine interest in their lives and keeping in touch. Loyalty will naturally follow.

CORPORATE HOSPITALITY

Leading on from this, sometimes when you’re struggling to win over or make a positive impression on a client, a touch of corporate hospitality is a slick, succinct way to go. The best such events need to be something entertaining, and not too divisive. Take, for example, sports events packages, such as matchday rugby with STH Live; the sport is respectful and values honesty and honour. This ethos will reflect well on your business’ core beliefs.

GET CLIENT REFERRALS

It’s easy to state unequivocally that your business is the best, but you might simply sound boastful and a touch brazen. What’s much more effective is if these words are coming from previous and/or existing clients.This means that you should seek client referrals and ask for feedback whenever possible, which can then be used to advertise your company, as well as it being useful for improving and refining your brand. It is, of course, important that you provide an excellent product or service in order for this strategy to be effective.

5 IDEAL TRAVEL TIPS FOR ATLANTIC CITY FIRST TIMERS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TRAVEL TIPS FOR ATLANTIC CITY FIRST TIMERS

When Donald Trump has an obsession with issuing negative tweets about a place, well, they must be doing something right. And it seems like nowhere draws as much ire as Atlantic City in the man’s eyes; perhaps because of all his casinos failed here spectacularly.

What he neglects to mention, though, is that America’s Playground is undergoing somewhat of a resurgence, with the declaration that its ‘best days are in front of it’. That’s some turnaround, and we for one are excited. If you’re feeling the pull too, then you might want to consider these; our 5 IDEAL travel tips for Atlantic City first timers.

TRANSPORT TALK

It’s important to get to grips with the numerous travel options and their wildly varying prices before you touch down in Atlantic City. Firstly, if you’re driving directly into AC, consider a different mode of transport; parking is obstructively expensive, even in hotels.

Flying into New York or Philadelphia and taking the train, greyhound or bus into town is a better, more budget friendly idea. Once inside the city, there are free shuttle buses to ferry you around to and from the boardwalk, which are subsidised by the casinos and therefore likely to stop outside your hotel as the former and the latter are inextricably linked here. This link extends to a scheme whereby you can trade your bus ticket for slot machine voucher, if that’s your jam.

Photo by Harold Wainwright on Unsplash

CASINOS ON A BUDGET

Should you be here to gamble, then there a few things you can do to make the casinos a little less impactful on your purse. Firstly, most casinos offer ‘frequent player cards’, which offer incentives, discounts and extras for those who patronise loyally. These perks include free meals and (even more) free drinks, as well as increased winnings percentages and perhaps a free stay in their adjoining hotel if you indicate you’ll return. 

Within the casinos you can drink for free, as long as you’re stationed at a slot or table, and tip the waiter. And like other top gaming resorts across the globe, the casinos provide much more than just an opportunity for you to blow your budget, with free shows at Caesar’s Palace a nightly occurrence.

SEAFOOD FOR DAYS

Well, you’re by the shore, it would be rude not to, right? Atlantic City is famed for its seafood, particularly of the all-you-can-eat, indulgent variety, so if you’re a fan of the sea’s bounty, you’re sure to be satisfied in America’s Playground. September the 7th, 8th and 9th see the Atlantic City Seafood Festival, featuring 40 local restaurants slinging the good stuff straight from the sea via a little heat and seasoning. Oyster houses are big business in the city, with Harry’s and Dock’s two of the local’s favourites.

And unsurprisingly, the casinos host some of the most well-appointed seafood buffets you’ll find anywhere in the country; the Borgata buffet is perhaps the best place to get your fish fix. If you still haven’t had your fill, Harrah’s resort and casino do a particularly fine all-you-can-eat king crab offer, too.

By Julia Filirovska from Pexels

DOWN ON THE BOARDWALK

The longest boardwalk in the world, clocking in at 5.5 miles, the wooden way is reason alone to visit Atlantic City. Though it’s a strip of glitz, glamour and casinos which beckon you in, you don’t actually have to splash to cash to enjoy the boardwalk; it’s great simply for strolling and people watching.

The Atlantic City Convention Center is also housed here, with trade shows and entertainment regularly open to the public. The Absecon Lighthouse is another top attraction (and one of the oldest in the country) which you can marvel out from the outside without spending a cent. And perhaps most famously, the Steel Pier with its neon lights and brash nature is a spectacle in itself. If you’re a thrill seeker, you’ll find enough Ferris wheels and fairground rides to satisfy you here.

By Joecho-16 from Getty Images Pro via Canva

MAKE TIME FOR THE BEACH

Though the brash and bawdy elements of Atlantic City don’t exactly chime succinctly with the sophisticated New Yorker vibe just up the road, you’ll still find plenty of Big Apple residents making a weekend pilgrimage to AC’s beaches. Unlike other places in New Jersey, they’re free to access, and great for a surf. For a stretch of sand so close to the boardwalk, the Atlantic City Beach is surprisingly spacious, making it the perfect place to set up for the day, kick back, and take in some rays.

5 IDEAL DESIGN TRICKS TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL DESIGN TRICKS TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME

Whether you’ve just moved house or you’re simply wanting to give your pad a fresh look, there are several insider hacks out there designed to breathe new life into the domestic space. And oftentimes it’s the smallest, finest details which can have the largest impact when talking interior design. Low cost, high impact; what’s not to love? So, let’s do this; here are 5 IDEAL design tricks to transform your home.

WINDOW SHUTTERS

Straight in at the deep end, we think. One of the best ways to improve the look of your home quickly and efficiently is by installing wooden window shutters.

As sites like shutters.co.uk show, they not only add instant style to any home but also come in a choice of materials, allowing you to get creative with texture and tone.

From hardwood to basswood hybrids, finding a shutter that fits the mood you’re aiming for is easy. An added bonus, of course, is that they improve both the interior and exterior appearance of your house, and we think white shutters, such as these plantation shutters by Lifestyle Shutters & Blinds, look particularly sophisticated. A double win, that.

RUGS ON HARD FLOORS

Wooden floors are a design trick in themselves as they look fabulous and are easier to keep clean than carpets. The one drawback, however, is that they can look and feel a bit cold. To help soften them up those hard edges, consider adding a brightly coloured rug. Texturally, as we’ve already mentioned, this is a winner and one of those good clashes. A rug can also warm up a room, both metaphorically and physically. Result.

TEXTURES & PATTERNS

A home design hack often deployed by those in the know is to mix up the textures of a room, as well as favouring patterns over the plain. A classic interior design technique is to mix the old and the new in the same room, adding contrast and serving to highlight both pieces succinctly. Adding a touch of modern art to a room which is defined by antique items works really well, for instance. In terms of patterns, having one wall in a striking design and keeping the rest of the walls plain and one tone can look cool and confident for minimal effort.

GO GREEN

We all want to connect more with the great outdoors, to lay in a field, frolic amongst the long grass or climb a tree and stay up there for a little longer than is normal. We’re all also too busy to act on these desires; there are too many notifications to check, emails to reply to and selfies to pose for. Bringing the outside in, then, with pot plants, is that little nod to nature in times of urban suffocation. The benefits of using plants in your own home are myriad. Not only do they purify the air and balance out a house’s humidity, but they also smell great and have a soothing effect. That’s even before we consider the aesthetics.

KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

There’s one narrative thread with runs through so many of the best homes; that the kitchen is the hub of the house. This is where bread is baked and broken, where families draw their faces away from screens for a short while and actually make eye contact. Relationships are nurtured and souls are nourished in the kitchen, so it’s a good idea to focus your design flourishes on this space if possible. The good news is that it’s also one of the easiest rooms to get right, simply by adding a few accessories. This could be as basic as putting in a hanging rack for utensils, or having your spice collection on display, to something more elaborate, such as replacing the cupboard doors with a new, confident colour scheme.

5 IDEAL VOLUNTEERING IDEAS TO HELP THE ELDERLY THIS SPRING

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5 IDEAL VOLUNTEERING IDEAS TO HELP THE ELDERLY THIS SPRING

We are living in the age of loneliness. Though humans are nominally more connected than ever, when the click of a button can have you in counsel with your closest friend and you can share a video call in different time zones with your family, the reality is quite different. Time and time again, the news reports on a loneliness crisis, an epidemic which seemingly is taking no prisoners. And oftentimes it’s those with the least years and peers left who feel the most isolated. There are things you can, and should, do to give back. We’ve teamed up with Westgate Healthcare, owners of Riverdale which is one of a few care homes in Braintree, to give you just a few of them; our 5 IDEAL volunteering ideas to help the elderly this spring.

BECOME A BEFRIENDER

Though many would spontaneously help a member of the older generation cross the road or carry their shopping, as a nation we can go so much further in our altruistic assistance of those in need. The U.K’s leading charity for the elderly, Age UK, have set up their flagship Befriendersprogram, which pairs up volunteers with older members of the community, in the name of companionship. Shockingly, nearly half of all over 75s live alone, and the commitment here is simple; to call to offer conversation and support, and to drop by and visit. Though the scheme is charitable in name, most volunteers find great pleasure and gain a real sense of meaning through participation. There really is no reason not to.

LEND A HAND

Whether it’s an offer to an elderly member of the community you know, or if it’s part of a volunteering scheme which connects strangers, an extra pair of hands lent can mean so much more than the physical help given. This can be as simple an act as picking up the shopping each week, collecting medicine and making calls to remind your friend to take it, all the way through to cooking a lovely, home cooked meal from time to time; something so many over 75s miss out on when living in isolation. Of course, it’s not the assistance which matters most (though of course it’s also useful) but rather the sense of care, trust and friendship received by members of the elderly community which is so valuable when loneliness sets in.

CAMPAIGN, PETITION & MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD

You may well have read about the social care crisis, with news earlier this year that 50’000 of England’s elderly have died waiting for a social care package. Without doubt, drastic government austerity cuts are to blame. What makes this even more disgraceful is that while the current leadership continue to take away funding from those who need it most with one hand, they use the other to push the public to do more and more volunteer work, to make up for services the government should be providing. While this certainly doesn’t mean you should withhold your offer of help to the community, it’s equally important that you make your voice heard, with letters to your M.P, signing petitions (such as this one for free T.V for the elderly) and campaigning for an end to this government’s risible treatment of those less fortunate in society. The elderly are often one of the least listened to groups; so raise your voice twice as loudly to make up for it.

TEACH A NEW SKILL

A wonderful way to help the elderly find new meaning in life and combat loneliness is by helping them learn a new skill. It can be a genuinely liberating feeling in old age to suddenly have some new tools in the armoury and new ways of contacting family members, or perhaps even impressing new friends. Perhaps the simplest skill you could teach is how to use a computer and the internet. We’re not talking mastering Excel spreadsheets or playing Fortnite, but rather the basics, like accessing the news or firing up FaceTime to enable a delightful video chat with the grandchildren. Lovely stuff.

BE AWARE OF SEASONAL ILLNESSES

With spring comes a change in the season, temperature, clocks and routine which can sometimes bring about a whole new set of health risks to the elderly. Particularly prevalent are the reemergence of allergies related to pollen, dehydration due to temperatures creeping up and the possibility of spring flu. It’s important then to be that little more vigilant than usual and wise to these changes in the air and weather when considering the health of elderly loved ones and companions.

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