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5 IDEAL WAYS TO SPRUCE UP YOUR GARDEN IN TIME FOR SUMMER

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO SPRUCE UP YOUR GARDEN IN TIME FOR SUMMER

As the first shoots of spring emerge and we dare to give our garden a closer look after months of neglect, it’s normal to feel a little ashamed about just how dishevelled we’ve allowed things to get. In the hasty attempt to get our patch back to normality, money, resources and time can all get wasted.

But if you’re planning a spring and summer of hosting, entertaining, barbecues and picnics out there, then you’re going to want to give a little care and attention to this much loved, undernourished space. To help you, here are 5 IDEAL ways to spruce up your garden in time for summer.

SPRING CLEAN AND DECLUTTER

Spring cleaning isn’t just for the inside of your home. Over winter, you’ve probably let your garden go. While we all know that a simple tidy up by removing weeds and raking leaves can make your space so much more appealing, it should go deeper than that.

If you have decking boards, start by sweeping away any fallen leaves or debris. Then, use a high-pressure cleaner to wash away any remaining dirt. Once you’ve done that, you can scrub the deck, perhaps even varnish where required, to bring it back to life in time for the sunshine. The same applies to any concrete or tiled areas. Make sure you replace any broken or chipped tiles and give it a thorough clean. As this area is usually the most walked-on part of the garden, it’s important to keep on top of maintenance here.

If you have fencing or a shed, you may find it useful to give it a fresh coat of paint. The change in weather throughout the year may see them looking a tad tired and faded, and in need of brightening up.

START PLANTING

Unless you’re an avid gardener, chances are your plants and flowers won’t have survived the harsh winter months. Back to square one, then, on bringing some colour and vitality to your space. Don’t fret; embrace the opportunity for a fresh, clean start in your garden.

Hanging baskets can bring some colour to your garden, fast, if you don’t have the time to plant flowers and tend to them. To perfect your hanging basket displays in time for the summer months, you should ideally be planting them in April. However, be prepared to protect them from any potential frost well into May. Calibrachoa is a good choice to add to your basket, alongside blue petunias – a flower which is known for being weather resistant.

The same goes for any planted flowers. Be sure to check the optimum time of planting any seeds to make sure your display is up and running and ready for the wow-factor this summer.

DRESS IT UP

If you have a bare garden, make the most of your space by introducing garden furniture. It doesn’t matter what size garden you have, somewhere to relax is essential. For those with limited space, add a hammock, while for those with more ground to play with, a table and chair set can be used to help you create the perfect dining option for those warm summer evenings. Aim to position this furniture towards the bottom of your garden to give it the illusion of an expansive space.

Mounting a mirror is another sure-fire way to make your space look larger. If you do choose this, though, make sure you position it so it has something to reflect, such as a nice floral display, rather than open space which will simply give the impression of a barren wasteland.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

We all coo and swoon over a garden space illuminated with twinkling fairy lights or the flicker of real candles, yet never have the volition to do it ourselves. You’ll need a fully weathered transformer plug to ensure safety, the fairy lights themselves, and that’s about it.

Use trees to hang your lights on, retaining a natural shape and feel to the lighting and highlighting features already present, or even run them along a washing line or fence. If you want to hang candles, simply lay some small pebbles in the bottom of a Kilner jar and place a tealight inside. Then use a basic chain or even twine to hang them off branches in the garden.

KEEP ENTERTAINING IN MIND

With entertaining at the forefront of your mind, think about adding a BBQ to your backyard too. Charcoal, electric or gas BBQs can turn your personal space into a home entertainment haven, giving a focal point which draws people in to converse next to, to prod and to flip. While the UK may have unpredictable weather at times, as soon as the sun shines, the public clamour for a good barbie, make no mistake.

5 IDEAL CAR INSURANCE HACKS EVERYONE NEEDS TO KNOW

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL CAR INSURANCE HACKS EVERYONE NEEDS TO KNOW

So you’ve just passed your test or recently invested in a shiny new car. You’re raring to hit the high road, pedal to the metal, tunes on the stereo turned up to 11 and windows rolled down to, erm, zero. Well, we hate to be that guy, but before your key slides into the ignition and engine gets revving, you’re going to need to deal with the boring details of bureaucracy.

More specifically, you’re going to need to find car insurance. But with the options myriad and the margins small, it’s important to approach this part of the process with diligence. Well, we’re here to offer a few insider tips so you can get the best deal possible. These are those; our 5 IDEAL car insurance hacks everyone needs to know.

YOUR CAR MATTERS

The bigger, faster and more powerful your car is, the more your insurance will cost. It’s as simple as that. Indeed, every car available in the UK is assigned a car insurance group number, between 1 and 50. Cars belonging to group 1 have the lowest premiums, and cars in group 50 the highest.

One of the best ways to reduce your premiums is to buy a car in a low insurance group. These will typically have smaller engines and lower repair costs. So, while you may want to impress your friends with a flashy first car, if you’re looking to get the cheapest insurance, then buying a car in a low group is a must.

YOUR JOB MATTERS

According to research by MoneySupermarket some drivers could save over £677 by simply changing the job title on their premium form. And while you should always be honest about your job, in insurance applications, the title itself matters. Some carry higher premiums than others.

According to research, ‘chef’ will return a premium that is nearly £100 higher than ‘kitchen staff’. Call yourself a music teacher rather than just a teacher? You could be quoted around £86 more. Copy writers will also return a different quote to just a writer. Simple semantics we know, but we don’t write the rules.

LOOK AFTER YOUR CREDIT HISTORY

If you decide to pay monthly for your car insurance and have a low credit score, your car insurance quote may leap up dramatically. Yep, most insurers factor in your credit history. Why? Well, according to research from Tesco Bank, people with a low credit score are statistically more likely to claim.

On top of that, interest will be added to your repayments. So check your credit history before you apply for a loan if you’re going to pay for it on a monthly basis. If you have a bad credit score, try and improve it before you apply for car insurance.

FURTHER EDUCATION

You should consider taking extra driving courses in order to lower your premium. Courses such as PassPlus and Drive IQ will test your driving skills more thoroughly than standard driving tests and are well liked by some insurers. PassPlus has six modules including all-weather driving, night driving and driving on motorways, and once you have this on your driving portfolio, you’ll have proved yourself to be a trustworthy, safe driver. Your premium will be cheaper accordingly.

NO DOESN’T MEAN NECESSARILY MEAN NO

Car insurance is there to make sure we are not left out of pocket as a result of an accident that wasn’t our fault. However, even when the other party has accepted fault and you have a valid claim, sometimes the insurance company can be slow in paying out compensation or can refuse altogether.

It’s important to know that there’s still hope should you be turned down, if you follow the correct procedure afterwards. Firstly, you need to find out why they aren’t paying out. It might be a case of the insurance provider wanting to gather all of the information forms from the policyholder first, in which case, the money may be on its way to you as soon as the policyholder admits fault.

If they are denying the claim or asserting that their policyholder was not as a fault, ask for the evidence they used to reach this conclusion. If they are still refusing to pay, contact a qualified insurance lawyer and get them to threaten the company with a lawsuit. A last resort, we know, but sometimes a warning shot does the trick. The company will want to protect their profits and the prospect of a costly lawsuit may scare them into paying out.

5 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT ETHIOPIA

Travel Team
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5 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT ETHIOPIA

5 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT ETHIOPIA

Though still considered an ‘off the beaten track’ destination, Ethiopia’s popularity with tourists is rising year on year, and it’s easy to see why. With a history unrivalled anywhere on earth – some archaeological finds date back 3 million years – and often considered the birthplace of humanity, the heritage found in the country is astounding. 

That’s not to say it’s a place living in the past. In fact, Ethiopia is one of the world’s fastest growing economies, and the capital Addis Abada is a modern, thriving city with a sense of fun and excitement at its core. If all of that doesn’t have you opening up a tab for skyscanner and comparing flight prices, then perhaps this will convince you; all you have you do is apply for an Ethiopia eVisas and check out these, our 5 IDEAL reasons to visit Ethiopia.

DISCOVER A NEW CUISINE…

Ethiopia’s unique cuisine has to be one of the world’s most criminally underrated, with chilli and dried spice used liberally and to heady effect. The most typical spice blend is called ‘bebere’ and contains cardamom, fenugreek and a whole host of other closely guarded ingredients. Each family has their own recipe and most are rightly proud and protective of it. When food is taken this seriously, you know you’re getting fed well.

Delicious flatbreads adorn even the most humble of dinner tables and it all starts with injera, a spongy bread made from sourdough which the rest of the meal revolves around. Alongside it, you’ll find lots of intriguing side dishes, all designed to be scooped up with a piece of the injera (cutlery is rarely used here). Other popular dishes include Shiro be Kibbe, a legume stew; tibs, a spicy meat dish; and kitfo, a kind of beef tartare mixed with ghee and usually enjoyed with fresh cheese. Just gorgeous.

5 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT ETHIOPIA

…AND FANTASTIC COFFEE CULTURE

In case you didn’t know, Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee and it’s impossible to separate the country’s identity from the world’s most popular drink. And neither would we want to; Ethiopians are incredibly proud of their coffee and it’s delicious.

The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is ubiquitous throughout the country and needs to be experienced when you’re visiting. Called the jebena buna, this ceremony occurs in cafes and involves a roasting of green coffee beans which are then crushed in a pestle and mortar. They are then added to the jebena, the traditional coffee brewing vessel, which has been heated over fire already. A three step brewing process follows, and it’s considered respectful to remain for each round of coffee, which gets progressively weaker. Those who last the course are rewarded with a blessing.

5 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT ETHIOPIA

A VARIED, BREATHTAKING LANDSCAPE

Ethiopia boasts some of the most spectacular scenic views anyone can imagine. Well, you don’t have to imagine now. Perhaps we’ll start with the Simien Mountains and National Park, which is a combination of valleys of depth and sheer peaks and is dramatic as it comes. The area is home to rare animal species like the Gelada baboon, Walia ibex, and the Ethiopian wolf. 

Blue Nile Falls is another must-visit; located 30km downstream of the magnificent, all-encompassing Tana river, this gorge is more than 45 metres high and the drop is a sheer sheet of water actually made up of four separate streams. In Ethiopia’s official language Amharic, this translates as Great Smoke, and if you’re lucky enough to see the Nile Falls in action, you’ll see why; they look like giant plumes of white smoke coming off the water. 

We could go on forever, but finally, we have to mention the Danakil Depression which is one of the hottest (and most inhospitable) places on Earth. That makes it sound like it’s not worth a visit (or one is not possible, in fact) but with such extremity also comes a place which looks and feels dramatic, otherworldly, and to be honest, completely beautiful. Sulphur springs and lakes and infinite orange hues…this one simply has to be seen to be believed.

5 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT ETHIOPIA5 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT ETHIOPIA

CAPITAL CURIOSITY

Ethiopia’s cultural and commercial hub and the capital city is Addis Ababa, and it’s a great starting point before exploring the country. A little chaotic but ultimately a welcoming, hip place to hang, Addis Ababa has plenty going on. Check out the Merkato – the city’s main market – to see Ethiopian produce and bartering methods in full, lively swing. Also dive deep into the history of the country (and therefore, some of the world’s deepest heritage) at the National Museum, which displays prehistoric fossils including one of the oldest ever discoveries of a human skeleton, ‘Lucy’, believed to be 3.2 million years old. 

For that revered, fantastic coffee, head to Tomoca Coffee Shop off Churchill Avenue, one of the country’s most famous joints serving the good stuff. Finally, the Old Central Piazza at night is boisterous and throbbing with music and dancing, the Ethiopian’s favourite past time.

FESTIVAL FRIENDLY

The major religions of this nation are Islam and Christianity, with various sects and practices. This leads to a whole host of big festivals and celebrations in the country. Yep, the Ethiopians love a festival, and these festivals offer a fascinating insight into this country and its traditions.

In fact, there is a festival to attend at any time of the year, with many involving a colourful display from the traditional dances (did we mentioned that the Ethiopians love a dance?) to traditional cuisine. What’s more, tourists are encouraged to take part in these festivals, so you won’t simply be an observer, but rather a fully-fledged participant. Famous religious festivals of Ethiopia include Timket, Meskel, Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha. Aside from religious festivals, film and art festivals are also held, most actively during the month of May. Get involved! 

 

 

 

 

5 IDEAL PERKS OF CHOOSING A MASTERS DEGREE

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL PERKS OF CHOOSING A MASTERS DEGREE

So you’re not satisfied with a layman’s understanding of your chosen field, and have your heart (and brain) set on becoming a master? Well, when it comes to selecting the right master’s degree – or deciding if one is right for you – it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. There’s tuition fees to take into account and all that extra time out of employment. That said, postgraduate study can support your career progression and permits rich, personal development that one simply won’t find tied to a desk, watching the hand crawl to 5pm. And while a postgraduate course doesn’t necessarily guarantee a route to employment and success, it can give you the edge on others when it comes to that all important job. So here’s some advice for the undecided that may help you make up your mind; our 5 IDEAL perks of choosing a masters.

MASTER YOUR KNOWLEDGE

You know how that old saying goes, that someone is the ‘jack of all trades, yet the master of none’? Well, if you’d rather be a master than a jack, then here’s your chance. If you’re passionate about a subject and want to learn even more about it, really go deep, immerse yourself and emerge as an influential figure within your field, then a masters degree is ideal. Being able to pursue your interests in great depth is a real privilege not afforded to everyone, and if you have passionate academic interests, the experience itself is worth it. And one of the biggest perks? Having more knowledge in your arsenal means you’ll be well on your way to becoming a true expert on a subject you care deeply about.

STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD

In addition to furthering your knowledge, gaining a deeper, more holistic understanding of your chosen subject will also help you stand out from the crowd. You’ll always have an intriguing, defining feature of your personality which you can carry with you as a safety blanket, conversation starter, subject changer and more. No one wants to be a sheep; we all want to be viewed as unique and individual, and having a detailed area of expertise to master’s level is one way to achieve this.

MIX AND MINGLING

During most masters degrees, you’re expected to conduct some primary research. This is a great opportunity to rub shoulders with the academic community and connect with people professionally. Yep, mixing and mingling, or ‘networking’ since we’re talking professionally, is part and parcel of most masters degrees and could help you get a foot or two in the door of a future job opportunity. Moreover, it means you’ll most likely connect with like minded people in a professional context who may just turn into a lifelong friend.  

INCREASE YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL

Yes, statistics show that you can increase your earning potential with a masters degree. Studies suggest that someone with a masters can on average expect to earn £5,500 more a year – or over £200,000 more over a 40 year working life – than someone only holding a Bachelor’s degree. That said, these statistics aren’t black and white. Women in England with postgraduate degrees still earn less than men with just bachelor degrees – yet another gender pay gap that needs to be addressed.

However, as a general rule of thumb, not only is your earning potential increased, but also your chances of landing the job you covet. If you studied in the field of medicine and are looking at job boards specifically for radiologists, for instance, your job chances are greatly enhanced if you have masters medical radiography postgraduate degree over a lesser academic undertaking. Many companies value post grads who are able to bring a high level of academic ability to the table. Some companies even have programs purely for postgrads, aimed at nurturing their talent.

CONTRIBUTE TO THE WORLD

If you want to contribute to, and advance, the world within any field, both professionally and academically, then you’re going to need to know your subject like the back of your hand, and a masters degree is of course part of this process. It’s your chance to contribute, give back, and not just learn about a subject. And if you get academic recognition in the meantime, you’re well on your way to becoming that prominent expert in your field we spoke about earlier. Talk about perks.

 

5 IDEAL WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY

5 IDEAL WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY

Owning your own pad in the modern world is less a manifestation of a lifetime’s hard work, and more a sign of rich and generous parents. And sure, us millennials may spend so much on avocados and pints that we can’t possibly dream of buying property, but nonetheless, protecting your premises is paramount to peace of mind. We’d all love that extra blanket of safety and security in a world seemingly on the brink of collapse, that’s for sure. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to protect your property from theft.

INSTALL CCTV

One of the commonly deployed ways to monitor properties (and deter would be thieves) is by installing closed-circuit television cameras (CCTV). They provide a real-time feed of what’s happening in specific places around the house, including those pesky blindspots that the naked eye can’t see out the window. So whether you need footage for monitoring the safety of the property, require it for retrospective action or even for insurance purposes, installing CCTV is a prudent move in the long run.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY

INSTALL AN ALARM SYSTEM IN THE VICINITY

A classic – some might say antiquated – form of ensuring the safety of properties is through an alarm system. A house alarm can be effective both in burglary and trespassing signalling, but has the obvious downside of being bloody, incessantly loud on a quiet Sunday morning when you go out to pick up the papers but forget the code. Nope? Just us then. There are also alarm systems to explore that are customised to automatically connect to the authorities, allowing them to respond in a timely manner, but again, this is risky as false alarms are so common. It’s up to you whether you deem the risk worth it.

MAKE FRIENDS WITH YOUR NEIGHBOURS

Sure you could hire security guards, or round the clock physical surveillance of your place, but that does seem a little excessive don’t you think? Instead, the mantra of “Neighbours, everybody needs good neighbours”, one familiar to everyone of a certain generation should be one we all make an effort to nurture.

If the relationship is harmonious between you and yours, life is so much easier; an extra pair of eyes on your place while you’re away, an increased tolerance to a bit of late night noise from time to time, a friendly cup of sugar lent when you’re out…you get the picture, and it’s one with a safe, sturdy frame. So get over there, introduce yourself and maybe bring a freshly baked cake as an icebreaker. Lovely stuff.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY

INSTALL GATES

We’ve already spoken about CCTV being a visual deterrent as much as a real-time provider of security, and there are other ways you can also add further deterrence to would be criminals tempted to enter your property. Sturdy, structurally sound iron gates can serve as your first level of security, both physically as they’re difficult to scale or cut through, and also since appear imposing are likely to encourage thieves and pesky door-to-door salesman to think twice before sashaying up your drive.

INSURANCE AS SECURITY

Though it does rather have the feel of cure not prevention, it’s essential you cover your property from theft through an all-encompassing home insurance policy, where you can be assured that even if you are the victim of a burglary, possessions will be replaced at no huge financial burden to you. We’ve written plenty more about home insurance over here; go check it out!

5 IDEAL WAYS TO PREPARE FOR YOUR NEXT HIKING TRIP

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO PREPARE FOR YOUR NEXT HIKING TRIP

The next time someone implores you to ‘take a hike’, the ultimate retort would be ‘I am, actually’. Because hiking, once the preserve of the compass wielding, insect eating, often hugely affluent survival expert, is now a popular pastime for the many, not the few. The one permanent truth, whoever you are or your experience in the field, is that thorough preparation is essential for a successful trip. Should you be climbing Ben Nevis, strutting your stuff across the Jurassic Coast’s trails or sashaying across Snowdonia, the planning is largely the same. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to prepare for your next hiking trip.

WHAT TO PACK

Whether your hike is covering an afternoon or a week, compiling a checklist of essentials before you set off is a must. This is one situation where, once something is forgotten, there really is no turning back, no corner shop to bail you out and no convenient way to access a backup.

Some of the most crucial items include a portable charger, as well as a first aid kit should you suffer an injury. If you are hiking in the summer months, temperatures can soar, so make sure to pack enough sun lotion to keep your skin protected, too. It’s best to be prepared for all types of weather when going on a hiking trip. Packing a raincoat that can add a layer of protection is incredibly important; there’s nothing like being soaked through to dampen the spirits and willpower to walk on. For this reason, make sure you store your clothes in waterproof bags too.

Consider packing some lightweight binoculars so you can appreciate any awesome views in more detail, as well as those birds that you hear singing from the trees or that deer two fields over. And it’s a given that along the way, you’re going to get lost and bereft of 4G. A compass or map may well save the day in such instances.

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

Prior to stepping out the door and onto the trail, it’s vital you check the predicted weather and anticipated conditions under foot so you can select the appropriate footwear for the task at hand (or should that be foot?). Your feet are going to be under a fair amount of strain, so choosing kicks appropriate for the hike at hand is so important. Assuming you’ve a thick, comfortable pair of socks on, hiking boots should fit snugly, entirely, to ensure no rubbing or slipping, without feeling tight or restrictive. Don’t take any chances with size, as blisters and swelling could ruin your trip. The different styles of tread, material and lace are dizzying in their variety, so it’s best to defer to the experts on this one.

HYDRATION STATIONS

If you aren’t drinking enough water during your hike, the chances are you’ll soon run out of energy, become dehydrated and suffer massively. To get the most out of your hiking trip, you will want to have a clear mind and vision, so ensure you pack plenty of water that can last you throughout your hike and keep you sufficiently hydrated, refreshed and raring to go. You can store a water bottle in your backpack for as and when you need it, or some backpacks come with specially designed sections for water carriers.

FIGHTING FIT

Ensuring you’re in good shape before your hiking trip is a must, as there are guaranteed to be moments of tough, unpredictable terrain which will require you to be fighting fit in order to tackle them. Building your stamina before your trip can make a huge difference and stop you falling short of what’s required of you once you’re on the trails. Cardiovascular fitness, leg (particularly calf) strength and a sturdy core are the areas you should pay particular attention to.

SAFETY FIRST

Your safety should be your number one priority when on a hiking trip. Therefore, enlisting hiking companions in advance, rather than doing things on your own, on the hoof and hoping to bump into fellow hikers, is a prudent preparatory move. If disaster strikes, say you suffer an injury or fall sick, then having people around you to help can be a literal lifesaver.

 

 

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR HOME CLEAN

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR HOME CLEAN

What would your superpower be? Well, picture this; that through a simple, sassy click of the fingers, all of the housework chores would be done. That would be ours. Because in this fast paced, frenetic modern existence, we’d all love to devote a little more time to doing the things we love, the things that nourish us, and not those which seem to, at best, just bring things back to normal. But through a little recalibrating of methods, tactics and even attitude, we can reframe our cleaning to be efficient, effective and whisper it, fun. Magic. Here’s how; our 5 IDEAL tips for keeping your home clean.

GET THE GADGETS

First things first, you need to view the purchase of some decent cleaning equipment as an investment. You’re going to be spending a lot of your life cleaning, and that’s unavoidable, but you can increase efficiency and reduce unnecessary time wasting by getting the right tools for the task, not those which break or bristle upon first use. Prioritise durability over cost, and high-tech over low. Though the outlay may at first seem large, in the long term you’ll be saving time and money, as well as that all important peace of mind, by drastically reducing the hours you spend scrubbing, sweeping and scraping.

REFRAME THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT CLEANING

If you view cleaning as a massive chore – one usually resented, procrastinated and abandoned – then inevitably it’s going to be viewed as an obstacle. But by a simple reframing of the way you look at cleaning, you can make it a valuable part of the day. You get out what you put in, as they say, so appreciate the physical benefits of a good bit of elbow grease, which when done right is said to burn 90 calories every quarter of an hour, as well as the cognitive perks, including increased organisational and planning capacities.

CONSIDER OUTSOURCING

If due to other domestic duties or a dedicated career, it’s entirely unrealistic for you to keep your home clean, then you should explore the option of outsourcing. There’s no shame in delegating the cleaning to a third party; let’s be honest, they’ll probably do it better. Enlisting the help of cleaning services isn’t as exorbitant as many imagine, but if you want to lower the cost, avoid a full, deep clean each week and instead hone in on the tasks you find particularly difficult and tiresome. You could hire a company to help with rug cleaning, outsource laundry, or have a window cleaner in every week. The choice is yours.

CREATE A SCHEDULE

Trying to do everything at once, with no set plan of attack, is what usually leads to that feeling of being overwhelmed and overly exhausted. Accept that you can’t do everything in one day if you want to be effective in all areas of your life and instead create a cleaning schedule that focuses on allocating a day to each task or a series of tasks. For example, Monday could be the bathroom day, while Tuesday is dedicated to dusting. The goal should be to create the perfect cleaning schedule so that you ultimately feel less burdened.

AVOID THE DREADED BUILD UP

Little and often should be your mantra, to maintain the cleanliness of your home in the most efficient way possible. The longer you leave something, the harder it’s going to be to clean it. For example, your gutters should be cleaned every 3-4 months so that they don’t get blocked with mucky leaves and debris. You can clean them yourself or with the help of a company like Clean Pro Gutter Cleaning Virginia Beach. No matter how they get cleaned, or who cleans them, they need to be cleaned. This will prevent any blockages or damage in the future, and not to mention it will increase your properties curb appeal and make it look much more appealing.

The same applies to the interior of your home too! We all know that it’s easy to quickly turn the house upside down, perhaps in the hunt for a lost key or during a day of duvets and Dominos, but by simply putting things back as soon as you use them or taking a few extra minutes to wipe tabletops down properly after each use, you’ll find your house is cleaner and tasks don’t build up until the point they’re untackleable. Lovely stuff.

 

7 IDEAL TIPS FOR PLANNING A WEDDING WITH A SHORT ENGAGEMENT

Editorial Team
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7 IDEAL TIPS FOR PLANNING A WEDDING WITH A SHORT ENGAGEMENT

Sometimes, you just know. It’s in the stars. It’s obvious. It’s a love so pure and gushing that there’s no need to wait. And it’s the best feeling in the world. Lovely stuff indeed. But also, panic stations. Weddings take a long time to plan (and to save up for), so even if time is in short supply, foresight and finesse are required if you’re going to pull this off. Luckily, we’re here to be your bridesmaid, best man and wedding planner all rolled into one, with these; our 7 IDEAL tips for planning a wedding with a short engagement.

EMAIL INVITATIONS

Forget ‘save the date’ cards entirely, there’s simply no time. It might also be prudent to send your invitations out, however clinical this may sound, by email. With time tight, this is the best way of getting the word out quickly, efficiently and cheaply. And let’s face it, people are more likely to RSVP too!

PROTECT YOUR PURCHASES BY USING A CREDIT CARD

The average wedding costs a staggering £30,355. Realistically, if you’ve left little time between getting engaged and married, you’re going to be in a bit of a rush when making decisions. This can lead to mistakes and miscommunication, inevitably. Paying for important wedding costs by credit card can offer extra protection that isn’t assured when paying a bill using cash or bank transfer. Should the photographer fail to show, for instance, or details aren’t as agreed on the day, then you have some extra security on those mishaps. When time is tight, this can be really useful.

BEVVY SAVVY

Booze is one of the day’s biggest expenses, and therefore a cause of headaches (and that’s not just the hangover!). So when negotiating how the drinks budget will be allocated, ensure you stipulate how much is to be paid per head. Doing so will avoid a possible nasty surprise when the drinks bill arrives after the honeymoon. You have a fixed price, you know the number of guests who are coming, and it’s clear what the invoice will be. This level of clarity is vital when you’re doing a lot of planning last minute.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX WITH YOUR VENUE

A wedding with little warning presents a problem in terms of securing a suitable venue. Most places are booked up months in advance, so you’re going to need to think outside the box with this one. Somewhere offbeat, unique and personal to you is much more likely to be available than a cliched place sought by most other couples. Don’t be afraid not to conform.

STREAMLINE THE ESSENTIALS

Ask yourself about what you consider the essence of a great wedding day, and what defines your romance. Once you’ve honed in on the essentials, you can cut back on the frippery. Streamlining is key. You might not find a band that will play on your chosen date given the limited time you’ve given yourself to book them; so, simply hire a D.J.

Equally, there may not be time to find a baker ready to fashion an elaborate, customised cake. Instead, you can find a standard cake in a local bakery. It all ends up the same, anyway. And your dress; we hate to say it, but there may not be time for endless fittings, alterations and fabrications. You have two options here; go for something timeless and classic which by design is less in need of adjustments, or completely rewrite the rulebook and freestyle by wearing whatever you want. It’s your day, after all.

CALL IN THE FAVOURS

Baker friend? A wedding cake could be their gift. Chef in the family? The catering might be covered. Interior designer who you went to school with? Fire up the Facebook and get in touch. Call in the favours wherever you can. Firstly, plenty of services and goods will be fully booked, unavailable or sold out at short notice. Next, this will greatly help limit the cost of things which, while not seeming like much individually, certainly mount up when accumulative. Teamwork, as they say, makes the dream work.

ARRIVE IN STYLE

Once everything is in place, against all odds, you can breathe a sigh of relief. First impressions count, and nothing says ‘this wasn’t rushed, everything is in hand’ like a stellar entrance.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR EVENT PLANNING

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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR EVENT PLANNING

Events manager, isn’t that just a glorified way to say you’re a party planner? Can you actually make a career out of arranging buying some boxes of bubbly and some bunting? Well, yes. And while some may talk about it in a blasé way, event planning is actually a stressful, complicated and incredibly involved process. What might go wrong, will, and a whole lot of pressure rests squarely on your shoulders. But that shouldn’t put you off; quite the opposite in fact. Because we love a challenge, and you should too, and there’s no more exciting and fulfilling one than throwing a successful party and making it look easy. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL tips for event planning.

CREATE A CHECKLIST

It’s can be surprisingly, alarmingly easy to overlook certain crucial details when planning an event, and as antiquated as it might be in this day and age, having a list on hand, to tick off and check repeatedly, can help tremendously in the task of organising. A simple, visual record of what’s done and items still left on the agenda can help immensely in dividing your day into the most productive version of itself. Plus, there’s something really rewarding about the feeling of physically crossing items off the list; just bliss.

THINK TWO MOVES AHEAD

We’re not talking about a chess themed throwdown here, although come to think of it, that does sound rather great. Nope, we’re talking about deploying generous amounts of forward thinking and foresight to your event in an effort to get the best prices and products and avoid any last minute hiccups. Not only will this approach grant you ample time to find a suitable venue, arrange catering and hunt down esoteric, unique entertainment like fairground stall hire or a giant sized Monopoly board, for instance, but it’ll also allow you to receive and compare quotes on cost. The natural result of this is both staying within budget and landing your first choices; the two key ingredients for a rip roaring event.

THE DEVIL’S IN THE DETAIL

When it comes to separating the great from the good, it really is all in the detail; the myriad tiny touches which add up to one essential event. Focusing on detail is vital, and what gets you noticed. It’s also crucial in terms of narrowing down your party planning options, when it comes to booking venues, vendors and all the rest. There’s a surprisingly broad scope of choice out there, but with a focused vision, it’s much easier to find the really niche, unique offerings which will last long in the attendee’s memory. In other words, do sweat the small stuff.

ORDER AMPLE REFRESHMENTS

One of the most important aspects of any event is keeping your guests well fed and watered. You can provide all of the raucous entertainment you could dream up, but without refreshments (solid and liquid) things just aren’t going to kick off. You know how the saying goes, that no one ever enjoyed Vegas sober? Well, bear that in mind. Rumbling stomachs and empty glasses are one of the main buzzkills of any event. It just lacks generosity. Therefore, make food and drink a priority as running out isn’t a good look.

HAVE A CONTINGENCY PLAN

As there are a staggering number of variables which contribute to planning an event and its eventual success or failure, it’s not uncommon (in fact, it’s pretty much guaranteed) to encounter unexpected hurdles during the process. And while having a positive, optimistic mindset is a desirable quality in an event’s planner, it’s never a bad thing to prepare for the worst. To this end, it’s good practice to have a contingency plan in place for venues and food provision at the very least.

 

6 IDEAL TIPS FOR DECORATING SMALL APARTMENTS

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6 IDEAL TIPS FOR DECORATING SMALL APARTMENTS

‘It’s…cosy’ the hopeful estate agent mutters and the alarm bells start ringing. Immediately, your mind is conjuring up images of a dim, dank and dingy place with no hope in hell of being brightened up. But small shouldn’t necessarily mean slumming it. In fact, in the right hands, such a place can be streamlined, decluttered minimalism in the best possible way. And it’s in those hands that brushes, hammers, nails and screwdrivers should be held. Because with just a little D.I.Y, big changes are possible. With that in mind, here are 6 IDEAL tips for decorating small apartments.

KEEP THE WALLS LIGHT

One of the quickest paths to alleviating that sense of a small and cramped room is a colour scheme which errs on the lighter side. Of course, gloom and doom might be your thing, but if you’d rather have a room which feels light, airy and welcoming, your next lick should be something lighter. A neutral shade like ecru, beige or one rendered in pastel will keep things feeling fresh and bright, and will lift your spirits along with the less tangible but no less important ‘mood’ of the room.

FIND THE RIGHT FLOORING

Since you live in a small place, footfall is going to be resolute, routine and unavoidable, with every square metre of the property experiencing a little wear’n’tear in the process. Due to this, the flooring itself will likely wear a more well worn look, and if you’re not diligent about this, the whole apartment may start looking rather shabby, rather quickly. Choose a good quality, long-lasting floor to negate this; try to find the best laminate flooring you can for an easy-to-manage, easy-to-clean and stylish(ish) surface.

CAREFULLY ZONE & SEPARATE AREAS

If you live in a open plan, small space, the guys at My Move recommend doing your best to “define separate areas and giving each area a specific purpose”. They suggest putting your coat and shoe racks by the door to round off your entranceway and positioning a buffet or console table between the “kitchen and dining areas for easy serving and extra storage.”

We also suggest separating areas with paint and/or wallpaper. We know we recommended that you keep the walls light, but a feature wall designed to zone your room in a darker tone can add the illusion of depth. Consider using contrasting colours to define different zones intended for different uses.

You can also define areas by creating a feature wall of pictures. Use eclectic, mismatched picture frames for a quirky, fun gallery look dedicated to those you love the most. Get onto a photo printing website to print off some of your favourite photos that nobody else will have in their homes. You don’t even have to put a nail in a wall, as there are plenty of products which allow you to remove your frames with ease – and all without causing any lasting damage to the walls!

Read: 7 ways to add interest to your walls

HANG MIRRORS

An interior design trick beloved of those in-the-know is to hang a few mirrors; a surefire way to bring a sense of space to proceedings without the huge financial outlay required to actually knock down walls and expand. Indeed, a mirror is an ideal way of incorporating light into a living space, as reflections will make the room feel bigger and brighter. Not only that, but a mirror will also add depth to a flat wall and can be used as a feature piece on plain backgrounds. With a more expansive feel to the space, those cliched dark corners and lurking presences will be well and truly exorcised.

MAKE GOOD USE OF STORAGE

A small apartment space may mean a lot of your stuff is very much on show rather than incognito, and this can contribute to a dingy, undesirable feel. It’s best, then, to deploy all the tricks of the trade in terms of handy storage solutions to open up your space as much as possible. Consider getting a bed with a built-in cavity to store extra belongings and find boxes or pouffes with hidden compartments in them for your living room. Anywhere where there might be some dead space could instead be home to a storage solution; we’ve written more about it over here. Go check it out!

DECLUTTER REGULARLY

Though seeking out storage is a great idea, when used in tandem with regular decluttering sessions, you’ll find your space feels far more open and free from unnecessary distraction. You only have a finite amount of space within your apartment and as such, you need to be strict about what items you value enough to have out on display and in use at all times. There’s no point being sentimental about ‘stuff’ if you haven’t got the space for it; instead, donate unnecessary items to a friend or charity shop and look forward, rather than back through a very crowded wing mirror.

5 IDEAL IRISH ADVENTURE HOLIDAY IDEAS FOR ADRENALINE JUNKIES

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5 IDEAL IRISH ADVENTURE HOLIDAY IDEAS FOR ADRENALINE JUNKIES

An Englishwoman, Irishman and Scot walk into a bar, with the intention of planning an adventure holiday abroad. Inca trails in Micha Pichu, shark cages in South Australia and mountain climbing in Nepal all get a fair hearing over a few pints, but distance and cost ultimately write them off. ‘How about some pulse racing, adrenaline a touch chasing closer to home?’ suggests the Irishman. The others laugh, ‘that’s just not possible’, but there’s no punchline here. Ireland is, in fact, an amazing, cost effective choice for those hungry for a holiday of extreme exploits and hair raising fun who don’t want to spend more time on the plane than in the grip of excitement. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL Irish adventure holiday ideas for adrenaline junkies.

SKYDIVE OVER OFFALY

The county of Offaly is just a 90 minute drive inland from Dublin. Most visitors head here for three reasons; to visit the 6th century monastic site of Clonmacnoise National Monument, to peer in to the Great Telescope (once the world’s largest) at Birr Castle and most importantly for us, to skydive. Starting at Clonbullogue Airfield in the town of Edenderry, parachute clubs offer onsite, pre-jump training, equipment, and even a tandem skydive option, perfect for a stag or hen party, or even an office team building exercise.

RAFTING ON THE RIVER LIFFEY

What better way to experience Ireland’s famous river Liffey than at first hand, with paddle and raft? Negotiating the seemingly tranquil river isn’t at first glance the most fast paced adventure activity available in the country, but it’s an eye opening look at Dublin at close quarters. It actually provides some pretty hairy, hair raising moments along the way, too, particularly along the four artificial weirs which make up most routes, where the drops are sharp and the risk of a headfirst plunge into cold water pretty high if you don’t have your wits (and oar skills) about you. There’s also the chance for a bit of wildlife spotting, although the likelihood of seeing another dolphin, such as happened at the tail end of last year, is slim.

CLIMB THE BURREN & WALK THE CLIFFS OF MOHER

Ireland boasts some truly stunning scenery; sheer, remote and unspoilt by the modern world’s heavy hand. This makes it a great destination for climbing and hiking, its rugged terrain and jaw dropping views best experienced from a vantage point only available to the daring and courageous. If you’ve ever fancied seeing the Cliffs of Moher, and love the thrill and challenge of the ascent, then combine the two; the nearby Burren is one of Ireland’s premier climbing spots and the Cliffs offer plenty of trails for a good old fashioned hike, the most popular being from Doolin to Hag’s Head.

ZIPLINE IN KILKENNY

Kilkenny, specifically Castlecomer Discovery Park, is home to Ireland’s longest zipline. At 300m long and 35m above ground (at its highest), zipping over two lakes, vast expanses of woodland and even a hand restored bridge from the 17th century, it’s a real thrill ride. What’s more, the park is run on a not-for-profit basis, so any money spent goes instead to promoting rural tourism and straight back into this majestic, one of a kind park.

MOUNTAIN BIKE IN BALLYHOURA

Finally, we’re heading south east, to the Ballyhoura mountains, which straddle Country Limerick and County Cork. Mountain Biking here is big news, with 98km of trails making it the biggest of its kind in Ireland. If you’re seeking real endurance, then it’s got to be the Castlepook loop, a full 50km of struggle and strain, including 1100 of climb, and long, sweeping descents.

5 IDEAL LONDON STREET EATS TO TRY THIS WEEK

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5 IDEAL LONDON STREET EATS TO TRY THIS WEEK

If you’ve pencilled in a visit to London this weekend, sampling the British capital’s renowned cultural variety, vibrant nightlife and cuisine are all surely high on the itinerary. And while many of the capital’s best eating opportunities are found sitting at the dining table, with cutlery, crockery, wait staff and the rest, a surprising amount of cult culinary classics are actually found on the street. For the budget conscious and avid foodie alike, this spells full tummys and fuller wallets. However, with such a wealth of street eats offered in the capital, it’s impossible to know where to start. To help, we’ve picked a random handful of some of our favourite offerings. Great stuff, now let’s get stuffed; here are our 5 IDEAL London street eats to try this week.

SUB CULT

There are definitely plus points to starting your London trip in its City district. Not only are the accommodation options varied and luxurious, for instance the Dorsett Hotel, City or some of the most well appointed air b’n’bs the country has to offer, but here you’ll also find Sub Cult‘s submarine rolls. They’ve recently got a permanent spot on 82 Watling Street and we couldn’t be more excited about that. You can expect to be greeted at Sub Cult with a fist bump, as Time Out explains. Yep, we cringe at the prospect, too, but it’s worth a grin and a bear to get your teeth stuck into the good stuff; their submarine roll combinations include pulled pork, seared scallops, calamari and parsley mayo.

BOXPARK SHOREDITCH

The raucous weekend atmosphere of Shoreditch’s Boxpark isn’t to be missed; a host of stacked shipping containers slinging street eats and craft beer to the hungry, thirsty throngs. However, unlike what the outlet’s physical look could lead you to believe, there’s far more than just the food of the sea on offer here. Vietnamese, Korean and Jamaican food is all served up by small traders here, while you can even sate your appetite for frozen yoghurt and monster pizzas if it be your will.

SHELLYBELLY’S

A little further from the centre but conveniently at the end of the fast moving Victoria line is Walthamstow and, to be more exact, Shellybelly’s. Even Shellybelly’s itself concedes that “its food isn’t for the faint-hearted”, but punch, pungency and confidence is what we personally love on a plate. If you’re the same, this one’s for you. Caribbean food is the name of the game here, Allow yourself to be tempted by the meat sourced from the London’s famous Smithfield Market, which over two days is bathed in homemade pimento and scallion jerk. The food here is also served with tomatoes and mango sauce, as a rule. And that’s not something we have any complaints about at all.

MAMA GEE’S POP UP KITCHEN

If the Shellybelly’s fiery fare is a little too out there (spice or location wise) for you, but Caribbean food is still very much your thing, you might prefer Mama Gee’s Pop Up Kitchen. Located in the sleepy area of Hornsey in north London, it’s especially noteworthy for its tender oxtail meat served in a thick, deep gravy. Pavlov reactions at the ready, guys… That meat is offered with soft butter beans and small “spinner” boiled dumplings – and rest assured that staples of Jamaican cuisine, including jerk and curry, are also on offer at Mama Gee’s, too. No reason not to, we think.

TACO DAVE

You probably don’t tend to routinely douse your beef in Dr Pepper, but when you’ve tried this guy you’ll be a sworn convert in no time. That’s because the fizzy drink provides the glaze to the most tender of beef briskets offered by Taco Dave, to such a supreme level that you’ll never look back. You can catch up with Taco Dave at Broadway Market, where you can also sample their cornflake fried chicken as well as vegetarian-friendly halloumi with pomegranate molasses. Don’t let the banal name fool you, you can expect it to long remain imprinted in your brain after you’ve sampled Dave’s delights.

6 IDEAL TIPS FOR CHOOSING A BACKPACK FOR TRAVEL

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6 IDEAL TIPS FOR CHOOSING A BACKPACK FOR TRAVEL

You know what they say, your next holiday will only be as good as the bag on your back. Or something like that. But it’s an invented saying that actually rings rather true, and reaches certainty when discussing longer trips and travelling. Because without comfort, space and security, a jaunt across the globe with all your worldly possessions straining at your shoulders can become a very tiresome burden indeed. And no one wants to view their next adventure like that, right? However, we’re not talking about those massive travel backpacks, rather the one that you’ll be using as a carry-on-bag and taking on those exciting day trips. With this in mind, here are 6 IDEAL tips for choosing a backpack for travel.

IS IT WATERPROOF?

Let’s cut to the nitty gritty off the bat; if you’re doing travelling in the spontaneous, carefree style, there are times when you’re going to get soaked through. Tropically, biblically wet. And that’s fine; it means you’re somewhere far flung, unpredictable, and on foot, seeing the sights and doing it right. But there’s no bigger buzzkill to the spontaneity than possessions ruined by the inclement weather. So, first things first, your priority, above size, shape, colour themes and natty appearance, should be whether or not your bag is waterproof. Be aware that waterproof and repellant aren’t the same thing and don’t equate to the same level of protection. 

FEEL THE BURDEN

When testing a bag out for comfort on the shop floor, an unfair impression is likely; it’ll be empty and the full capabilities of the straps won’t be shown. You’re going to be spending a lot of time with this bag, through thick, thin and all in between, so you need to make sure it’s properly comfy and secure on your back. It’s a fair investment too, and as such should be tried out in person, in a shop. In general, pick backpacks with thick shoulder straps and waist belts, according to ergonomists.

Ask the assistants to fill it up with whatever debris or surplus items they can find so you can assess the full weight of it before buying. To make it as comfortable and secure as possible, always remember to wear it on both shoulders (none of that single slung, looking effortless stuff please) and wear it high up the back; straps should be adjustable on anything half decent. Also, if your bag comes with a chest or waist strap – or even better, both – then that’ll ease the burden on your shoulders considerably.

RECOGNISABLE, LOW KEY

A matter of personal preference, this, but also one which needs a little thought prior to purchase; how unique your bag looks, well, it matters. You’re going to want your backpack to stand out from the crowd, to an extent, as owning one which shares a similar appearance to all its companions in the hold or trunk makes life pretty difficult when they’re all coming off the carousel at quick speed. You don’t want to end up wearing Zainy Jim’s sombrero and elephant harem pants for the rest of your trip because of a simple case of misidentification.

On the flipside, you probably don’t want to stand out too much; those backpackers standing on a street corner, peering into Google Maps and teetering under the weight of their bag are ripe for a scam or two. Keep it low-key, but recognisable, perhaps with a backpack accessory like a tag or patch sewed on for good measure.

COMPARTMENTALISE

One important consideration is what you’ll be carrying around in your backpack. Think about what items will serve you on a daily basis and what things you want to have handy and within easy reach. We all know what it’s like; digging deep for a charger, losing stuff and finding it again at the bottom of your bag. As such, essential when travelling is a backpack with the ability to compartmentalise, and perhaps the prudent purchase of an organiser – essentially an efficient way to compartmentalise your bag – will save you time packing, unpacking and searching for fundamentals.

STYLE & STATEMENT 

While keeping your purchase low key and practical is important, don’t compromise on your personal style. While it must do the job, choose a backpack like you would any other accessory and make sure that it works with your wardrobe. Minimal branding and detailing will guarantee longevity and neutral shades are always a sound choice. However if you normally wear monochrome outfits, consider a bag that will give your look a pop of colour. When it comes to choosing a backpack, keeping in mind your personal style will ensure you enjoy the shopping process as much as the purchase itself. 

A FEW TO CONSIDER….

Simpler, Smaller, and Straightforward

Fjallraven Kanken Classic: This 16L bag is small enough, and it has adjustable straps, so it can be carried as either a backpack or a handbag. Available in plenty of both solid and brilliant colour options.

Eastpak Padded Pak’r: With 24L volume, this one is a bit bigger but still simple enough. It has a single main compartment and a large front pocket. It’s more mature in style and colour varieties.

Jansport Superbreak: A 25L backpack with one main compartment, and a front utility pocket with a basic organizer. Coming in 30 different colours and prints, it’s perfect for every style of self-expression.

Bigger and More Detailed

Jansport Right Pack: A 31L bag with one large main compartment, an internal 15-inch laptop sleeve, front stash pocket, and front utility pocket with a basic organizer. The bottom is suede for extra durability.

Jansport Big Student: This 34L backpack is for when you need a lot of space for books and binders. It has two large main compartments, lots of pockets, lots of space, and a front utility pocket with an organizer.

The North Face Borealis: A 28L bag which has a large main compartment with a 15 inch padded laptop sleeve, another compartment with a proper organizer that’s made with attention to detail and quality pockets, and much better shoulder straps and back padding than the previous options. The price is higher for those reasons though.

 

4 IDEAL DRIVING APPS FOR CARS

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4 IDEAL DRIVING APPS FOR CARS

There really is an app for everything. Statista recently estimated that 197 billion mobile app downloads were made in 2017 alone, and with our current world population standing at just under 7.7 billion, in theory this means that around 25 apps exist for every single person on the planet. So whether you want to fake a cracked screen (yours for $0.99), identify the best time to take a loo break during a film, or the ‘nothing’ app which does, well, absolutely nothing, the world wide web has got you covered. Then there’s the far less esoteric and entirely more useful apps for those everyday tasks and undertakings which could do with a little streamlining. And never has this been truer than on the road. So, we’ve teamed up with by specialist VW service provider, Vindis, to bring you these; our 4 IDEAL driving apps for cars.

ANDROID AUTO & APPLE CARPLAY

Firstly, a pair of smart driving companions which both carry out similar functions. Of course, the choice of which one you download will depend on the type of smartphone you have, so we’ve included both. If you have a device with an Android operating system, then Android Auto helps improve several areas of the on the road experience. This smart driving companion essentially means that while you’re at the wheel, you only need to mutter ‘OK Google’ in order to…

  • Set up real-time GPS navigation and be informed about traffic alerts.
  • Check your calendar for any occasions that you have scheduled.
  • Set reminders.
  • Get up-to-date news.
  • Setting up a do not disturb message on your phone.
  • Make or answer phone calls handsfree.
  • Access so many of your media apps, such as those containing your favourite music playlists, audiobooks and podcasts.

Apple CarPlay functions in a similar manner to Android Auto and is made for iOS smartphones. Featuring Siri voice control, here’s just a few things you can do once you open the app:

  • Search for attractions while driving by simply asking for directions by the following means: “Siri, where’s the closest petrol station?”.
  • Have the app predict where you need to be by analysing addresses on your recent emails, text messages, contacts and calendars.
  • Make calls and listen to voicemail handsfree.
  • Have Siri read and reply to text messages, as well as send messages in new conversations too.
  • Gain access to content via your iTunes, Apple Music or other audio apps accounts, as well as even request for Siri to become your personal DJ for the duration of a road trip.

In effect, you can remain connected without taking your focus away from the road! Download the app here: Android Auto: https://play.google.com Apple CarPlay:https://www.apple.com

HERE WEGO

Sick and tired of your mobile phone losing internet connection just as you’re hitting a busy city centre that you’re unfamiliar with? Yep, we’ve all been there, lost, going in circles and unsure of how to reach B. The HERE WeGo app should mean that you never need go through this again. This is because the app allows you to download offline maps of the UK and other countries — including France, Spain, Italy, the US. This means that you don’t need an internet connection to be guided accurately to wherever you want to go. The app even comes in handy when you’ve left your car at home, as it’ll inform you of carsharing opportunities nearby whenever you need it and can also call a local taxi too. Being stranded in an unfamiliar city never felt so secure. Download the app here: Android Auto: https://play.google.com Apple CarPlay: https://itunes.apple.com

YOURPARKINGSPACE

If it isn’t your sat-nav losing internet connection at a vital moment getting you all hot and bothered while at the wheel, then not being able to find a parking space once you’ve arrived at your destination surely will. Again though, help is at hand – well, at a finger tip, really — this time in the form of the YourParkingSpace app. This award-winning service has been praised at the 2021 British Parking Awards (sounds like a riot; can we get an invite, please?) for its innovation and accessibility. The app itself is made up a database of over 1 million parking spaces, off-street parking options (think car parks, private spaces and even driveways) and on-street parking possibilities (that’s stretches with parking meters and free parking zones) and helps you find somewhere to leave your car safely and securely.

YourParkingSpace doesn’t just come in handy when trying to find a space, however. You can also reserve a guaranteed space and pay for the spot via the app using either a card, PayPal or either Apple or Android Pay services.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO INCORPORATE PANTONE’S COLOUR OF THE YEAR INTO YOUR HOME

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO INCORPORATE PANTONE’S COLOUR OF THE YEAR INTO YOUR HOME

If there’s one place we should be turning to for advice on all things fashion, design and style, it’s the Pantone Color Institute. What they don’t know about colour isn’t worth knowing and, at the end of each year, they announce their highly-anticipated Pantone Color of the Year for the year to come. A lot of time and research goes into determining the shade that they believe is going to dominate our homes and offices, from looking into trend forecasts to studying colour psychology and more. 

This year, it’s the turn of Living Coral (16-1546); a warm, bright and vibrant colour, which is said to be both welcoming and engaging. There are so many ways you feature Living Coral in your day-to-day life, from a bright piece of clothing to a stand-out shade of lipstick. But why not incorporate it into your home and enjoy it domestically, all year round? With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to incorporate Pantone’s colour of the year into your home. 

ADD A PIECE OF STATEMENT FURNITURE  

Introduce a conversation-starting piece into your home with a statement item of furniture in Living Coral. This is ideal for giving your living room a pop of colour, adding a bit of excitement to your downstairs space and showing off your up-to-date style. Consider a unique, velvet chair, a painted side table or even a brightly-coloured table lamp in the on-trend hue.

BRIGHTEN UP YOUR BEDROOM

Adding Living Coral to your bedroom is easy. Treat yourself to some new bed sheets that feature the coral shade in the pattern, or stick to plain white sheets and add scatter cushions or a chunky throw in that special colour. Alternatively, you could use it in your curtains or lamp shades and include some coral-coloured flowers on your window sill too. If you can’t decide which idea you like the most, take a look at some storage beds, like those at the Divan Beds Centre, and mix it up from time to time; storing what you’re not currently using in the under-bed drawers. Just don’t overdo the shade; overkill is possible even in the most on trend colour schemes.

CREATE AN ACCENT WALL

A bold and beautiful way to incorporate Living Coral into your home is to paint an accent wall in one of your rooms. Bring life to your living room with a bright wall, featuring your favourite photographs in an assortment of different picture frames. If you’d prefer to experiment with the colour in a manner a little more subtle, the wall of a guest bedroom is the perfect place to let your inner interior decorator skills run wild.

ACCESSORISE YOUR LIVING SPACE

If you’re less about statements and more about subtle tinges of colour, then opt for accessorising with Living Coral in the common areas of your home, in lowkey flourishes rather than broad, bold strokes. Put some coral placemats and coasters in your dining room and living room, pop a coral vase on the mantelpiece or add some new cushions to the sofa. Indeed, featuring small touches around the house can be just as impactful as a big and bold design decision.

LIVEN UP YOUR KITCHEN

If there’s one room you can confidently add bright splashes of colour to, it’s got to be the kitchen. Render the insides of your cupboards in Living Coral for a subtle touch of style, buy some shiny new coral coloured appliances and crockery or go all out and have a brand-new coral kitchen fitted; there’ll never be a dull dinner time again. Visually, anyway.

 

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