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6 IDEAL WAYS TO CREATE AN EFFORTLESSLY STYLISH BEDROOM

Your bedroom should be the ultimate haven; an escape from the toils and turmoil of the daily grind. It’s the place where the magic happens, a space where you’re likely to spend your most intimate moments and the place for getting your 7 to 8 hours. Indeed, our bedrooms are where we spend at least a third of our lives, and as such it’s only natural to want to turn it into a stylist retreat. If you want to create a room you’ll dream about after a long day, here’s 6 IDEAL ways to create an effortlessly stylish bedroom. 

CAREFULLY CHOOSE YOUR BEDROOM’S COLOUR PALETTE

Every purchase you make for your bedroom should be based on its colour palette. You must think about the type of atmosphere you want to enjoy before you start decorating and purchasing furniture and upholstery. For example, if you want to create a light, bright and calming space, blue and white will offer a soothing, nautical design that will make you feel a million miles away from the chaos of your home. Yellow, on the other hand, can reportedly make a person feel happier, playful, and more optimistic. 

ADD TEXTURE

Increase comfort and interest in your bedroom’s interior design by adding texture. For example, you can add different pillows, throws, and comforters in different fabric styles and thicknesses onto your bed, which will create a cosy, inviting design that welcomes you home. Adding texture is great for the winter months, when all you want to do is snuggle in bed while reading a book.

INSTALL BESPOKE FITTED WARDROBES

Wardrobes are much more than storage facilities. In fact, they can be a stylish addition to any home. Companies such as Metro Wardrobes offer bespoke wardrobes in London, so that homeowners can include a level of customisation in their home. Therefore, if you need more space to hang clothes, or perhaps you have one too many handbags, you’ll be able to have a chic storage solution that’s made to measure your every need.

STATEMENT HEADBOARD

If you want to create a stylish yet comfortable bedroom, you should select a statement headboard for a more luxurious interior. It’s wise to pick a neutral-coloured headboard, which can adapt to your future bedroom makeovers, such as a cream, beige, or light sand hue. It’s an elegant addition that will transform your bed into the room’s focal point.

INCORPORATE CHAISE SEATING

If you love to read in the comfort of your bedroom, you should incorporate chaise seating into your interior design. It will provide a relaxing space to sit down and absorb in a good book, meditate, or to simply enjoy the silence within your home. What’s more, a stylish chaise can create a stunning focal point that will ooze luxury and elegance.

BREATHE EASY

All these aesthetic considerations tend to sideline the other senses, to the detriment of your bedroom’s overall stylistic appeal. As much as the art on the walls or texture on the pillows, you should consider the atmosphere of the room. You’ve got two main options here. One, consider investing in some air purifying plants, such as the Peace Lily or Boston Fern, or better still, splash out on an air conditioning unit – air con installation from Christy Cooling services, for instance – to really bring that sense of freshness to the space.

HANG YOUR FAVOURITE WORKS OF ART

Artwork cannot only add texture and intrigue to your bedroom, but it can also add a touch of refinement while allowing you to express your personality. You should hang a work of art you would gladly look at every day, and that works in harmony with your bedroom’s colour scheme. The right piece could help you to create a sophisticated décor that’s filled with both character and colour. If you’re into music, you could also frame and hang your favourite vinyl covers.

7 IDEAL WAYS TO CELEBRATE WORLD BOOK DAY

Today marks World Book Day, a global celebration of literature, story-telling, illustration and all things which belong parked on the page. This amazing charity is all about bringing people together through the power of books, in their own words offering ‘a link between the past and the future, a bridge between generations and across cultures….standing up for creativity, diversity and equal access to knowledge’. And truly, that’s something we should all be getting behind. With that in mind, and with the help of Happy Beds, here are 7 IDEAL ways to celebrate World Book Day.

THROW A ‘NOVEL’ THEMED COCKTAIL PARTY

Throwing a cocktail party based around a famous novel, perhaps serving up the author’s favourite drink, is a great way to get fully immersive and imaginative with reading. Of course, attendees will have to be familiar with the literature in question to participate; you could go the extra mile and ask people to come dressed up, in character, as their favourite person from the book. Sounds like a fun-filled evening to us.

MAKE A BEDTIME READING RESOLUTION

As the old adage goes, book lovers never go to bed lonely. However, this isn’t the only reason to read before bed. Curling up with a book can help boost well being, knowledge, imagination and restfulness. What’s more, it keeps at bay the temptation to be glued to the dreaded blue light of a phone, tablet or laptop right before you close your eyes. The holy grail of a great night’s sleep is closer with a good book.

START A BOOK CLUB

No, book clubs are not confined to romcom scenes of middle aged women gossiping about their husbands. Ditch the tea, biscuits and 50 shades, and instead start something unique and fulfilling. When done right, a book club can bring people together, encourage a greater sense of community and of course, get people reading more. Just what the mind and soul ordered, we think. In our experience, the best don’t revolve around a single friendship group, rather have a diverse, inclusive mix of folk from different backgrounds with varying tastes and opinions.

The majority of book clubs now take place online, allowing for people from different time zones, or those constrained by distance, to participate. For us, though, face-to-face, with physical books, is simply better. Anything to get away from those pesky screens, right?

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY

Libraries are so much more than simply somewhere to find a book. They offer a shared experience, a safe haven, and somewhere where people can go to learn without having to spend money. They’re particularly important to those without the means to use the internet; allowing, for instance, the homeless to have access to computers. Vital work indeed.

In 2018 approximately 130 public libraries closed, with funding cut and government interest in keeping them running non-existent. Most local libraries are now run by volunteers, so on World Book Day the best thing you can do is support yours, either by donating money or your time.

WATCH A FILM ADAPTED FROM A NOVEL

Not much of a reader but still want to participate in World Book Day? Well, you could watch the film adaption of a famous novel to get into the spirit of the occasion. Some of the best of recent years include the Lord of the Rings series, the Life of Pi and of course, Harry Potter.

DONATE A BOOK

A favourite book is a cherished possession; something which has been through a roller coaster of emotions with you and has the marks to prove it. And as such, we often want to keep our most beloved books to ourselves for sentimental reasons. But sometimes, it’s better to let go. Rather than allowing a book to gather dust on your shelf, why not pass it on to someone you care about, and extend the shared experience. You’ll also free up some room for something new. Everyone’s a winner!

TAKE A TRIP TO A FAMOUS AUTHOR’S HANGOUT

Why not channel the inspiration behind one of your favourite authors by taking a trip to their old hangouts, haunts and stomping grounds. We’ve written more about planning your next holiday around a beloved book here. Check it out!

5 TIPS ON HOW TO CREATE THE IDEAL BEDROOM

Bedrooms are, to paraphrase ‘Cribs’, where the magic happens. Rather than being just a place to count sheep, a bedroom should be a haven; a place of tranquility, to relax, recharge and reinvent. The boudoir is, perhaps most importantly, also the framework for life’s most romantic moments, so getting the décor and furniture just right is imperative. If you’re renovating, reimagining or simply fancy a change, then check this out; our 5 tips on how to create the IDEAL bedroom.

CHOOSE A QUALITY MATTRESS

Did you know that your quality of sleep suffers considerably if you bed down on an uncomfortable, unsuitable mattress? Well, if you’re the owner of a lumpy or too firm one, then you probably did. If not, then enjoy those 8 hours in blissful ignorance. Indeed, a good night’s sleep is something really important for health and well-being, so don’t skimp when choosing a mattress; we’d go as far as to say that it’s the most important single item in the house and so important for achieving a good night’s sleep.

A CALMING COLOUR THEME

Generally speaking, broad blocks of colour offer a more soothing ambience than busy and overwhelming prints. Of course, everyone is different, and tastes diverge as much as they endorse, so keep a broad mind when approaching the final decision on a colour scheme. The idea is to quieten the mind, not stimulate it, so find a colour that works for you, above all else. Soothing greens and blues are generally said to be more relaxing than red or orange, for example.

DE-CLUTTER

Untidy room, untidy mind, as the old saying of an irritating colleague goes. But, there is some substance to that soliloquy. If you have a messy room, simply speaking, it’s hard to relax. So, declutter diligently and keep items neatly stored when they’re not being used. It may sound strange, but flat surfaces, such as dressing table tops, bedside tables and window sills, should generally be kept clear of stuff, however tempting it may be to gather everyday items there. If you want your bedroom to be a haven of peace, then you don’t want clutter to intrude on your relaxation. Minimalism, we think, is the watchword here. 

LET THERE BE NATURAL LIGHT

The healing and energising powers of natural light should never be overlooked. Quality lined curtains will keep your bedroom dark, whereas cheaper ones let light through and could affect your quality of sleep. As well as doing a job, functionality speaking, window dressing should also look the part. Blinds should be minimal, stylish, and in keeping with the relaxed vibes you want your bedroom to emulate. You might want to opt for blackout blinds as a smart alternative to curtains, so check out Kens Yard to get some inspiration for your new look. Or, if you’re looking to bring things into the modern age, then consider smart blinds and shutters, controlled at the touch of the button, such as these from Blinds Essex.

Natural light also plays a part in how your bedroom can affect your mood. A dark bedroom during the daytime is not a place where you’ll want to spend much time, so if you have the option, volition and deep wallet, consider installing a skylight window to flood your room with natural light – and positive energy – during the day. Electric lighting that can be dimmed is also a great option for creating a warm, flexible ambience at night time. 

FURNISH WITH FINESSE

The root of your clutter problem may not lie in the rubbish itself, but in a lack of storage solutions, or at least, savvy sorting of your stuff. Keep your clothes, shoes, jewellery, and other items well organised in furniture fit for the job, made possible by tetris-like levels of storing nous. Specifically, underbed drawers are ideal, and if you have room, consider fitted wardrobes for a sleek, uncluttered feel.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR USING MCT OIL IN THE KITCHEN

Would you like some medium chain triglyceride drizzled over your pasta, madame? Erm, no. Indeed, such a clinical name doesn’t exactly bring out the pavlovian, does it? But MCT oil, a special type of fat said to rapidly convert energy, has been growing hugely in popularity in recent years, due to its reported health benefits including enhancing exercise endurance. And while we’re not here to deliver a scientific verdict on that, we can certainly offer up some advice on using it as a vehicle for deliciousness.

If you’ve heard of MCT oil, it’s probably down to bulletproof coffee. This drink, apparently a giver of superpowers, initially contained a lot of butter. People soon realised this perhaps wasn’t a great idea in terms of weight loss, and replaced some (or in some cases, all) of that butter with MCT oil, a substance made by extracting and isolating MCTS commonly found in coconut oil. It was the ideal replacement as it’s reported that it has fewer calories than long-chain triglycerides found in foods like butter, olive oil, nuts and avocados. Moreover, it apparently keeps you fuller for longer.

Just like those bulletproof coffee drinkers, if you’re watching your calories MCT oil could potentially be a great substitute to other fats you may be using in the kitchen. Or if you simply like to cook with coconut oil, but aren’t a fan of the coconutty taste it imparts on your food, then it could be a great replacement as its flavourless and odourless. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL tips for using MCT oil in the kitchen.

HOMEMADE SALAD DRESSINGS & MAYONNAISE

If you want to cut down on the harmful fat content of your salad dressings, but keep that body of the dressing and emulsifying quality of oil, substitute some of your standard olive or rapeseed oil for MCT. The best of all worlds, we think. Moreover, MCT oil is great for homemade mayonnaise, which usually calls for a neutral oil.

Of course, make sure your oil is sustainably sourced, as some coconut and palm oil production do a lot of damage to the environment. 

SLOW ROAST VEGGIES

The smoking point for MCT oil is fairly low, at 160°C, so it’s generally not recommended to cook with it on a high heat as you would vegetable or olive oil. However, it can be used in low to mid temperature cooking. If you’re planning on roasting some veggies, give them the low and slow treatment with a good drizzle of MCT oil and you’ll have a super healthy side dish.

SUPER POWDERED SMOOTHIE

MCT oil can also be used to give smoothies a real lift; both in texture and energy giving properties. It’s not solid at room temperature, so it’s perfect as a binding agent. Lots of gym goers who pledge allegiance to king keto (that’s a very low carb diet to you and me) add it to their workout smoothies and shakes for a touch of extra satiety and fat burning fuel.  As MCT oil is flavourless, make your smoothie as normal but add some of the good stuff to give it a lift.

ICE CREAM

Dairy free, nut free, low fat, an energy and metabolism booster? There must be some mistake! Well, if the reports on the benefits of a keto diet are to believed, there isn’t. Yep, you can make ice cream with MCT oil and pure ghee acting in place of milk, with a little coconut milk instead for texture. Introduce some avocado instead of eggs for that protein and emulsifying quality and away you go. Lovely stuff.

BETTER-FOR-YOU BAKING

Great news! You can also use MCT in baking with excellent results. Simply replace your regular oils or butters in the recipe, or perhaps half them, and you’ve got yourself a healthy, nourishing cake. A classic orange olive oil cake, with the addition of MCT oil in the batter, traded in for some of the olive oil, would be perfect; as the bake requires a low temperature and slow cook.

5 IDEAL AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS

If you’re lucky enough to have an extra room, floor or even house knocking around, vacant and begging to be occupied, then we have two questions for you. Firstly, what’s your secret? And secondly, have you considered renting them out? There’s more than just pocket money to be made in the sharing economy, in fact, there’s more than just money to be made, full stop. There’s friends and memories abound too, if you host with open arms and gusto.

Now, being a great host is all about showing your guests that you care, about putting on a great show and paying attention to the finer details of their stay. And with great hosting, in this game, comes great reviews, and subsequently more money. And friends. And repeat. So, with all that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL airbnb hosting tips.

The Details Matter

The tiny details and touches of thought and care are the things that keep guests coming back for more (and writing those all important stellar reviews). Leave a bottle of wine as a welcome, for instance, to make that brilliant first impression. Lay out clean towels on the bed or put a kettle in their room so they can make coffee in the morning. Small post-it notes explaining any confusing technological quirks smooth out any bumps in the ride. Equally, leaving snacks, homemade jams and so on more than makes up for the outlay in warm, positive vibes. Perfect.

Create A City Guide

The personal touch is everything. Character, flair and a sense of unique proposition is what brings in the punters again and again. After all, if people wanted identikit accommodation, they’d have opted for a hotel. One great way to give your property that real sense of you is to curate and coordinate your own city guides. Nobody knows your neighbourhood better than you so be sure to include some of your favourite restaurants and bars as well as off-the-beaten-track spots to visit. Little added extras like a decent map and some local takeaway menus can go a long way to helping your guests feel right at home.

Take Them on The Town

If you are staying at the house while your guests are there, or simply have some free time to go and meet them, offer to take them out on the town for a food tour experience of where the locals eat and drink. It’s a great way to show off your city and favourite places as well as leave a great impression – that’s if the vibe feels right, of course. Bear in mind that some people prefer minimal contact with their host and wish to go about their stay uninterrupted. Having good intuition for this is vital.

Minimise The Stress Of Hosting

No one wants a host who’s pulling their hair out, flustered and fussy and seemingly not in control. Such a sight doesn’t bode well for a comfortable, stress free stay. Nowadays, more people are using property rental companies such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and HomeAway to book and advertise short-term rentals. If you’re getting into the renting out game, you’ll be all too familiar with the stress of managing rentals across different channels while retaining your USP. One way to take some of this pressure off is to use an Airbnb channel manager to operate a booking calendar sync and free up some time to be a great host.

Offer to Cook For Them

There’s been a growing trend recently in Airbnb users going on foodie adventures when travelling, with many guests booking food tours and cooking classes. One way to leave a lasting impression on your guests is to cook them a meal, preferably using local ingredients and showing off any delicacies the region is famous for. You could go a step further and teach them how to make a meal, which is a great way to bond. As with above, the same rules apply when feeling out the mood first to see if your presence on their trip is a welcome one.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR REJOINING THE DATING SCENE

Hey you! Yes you, the one wearing the newly single and ready to mingle badge with pride. Things, we’re afraid to say, have changed a little since you were last around. There’s acclimatising to cuffing season, DMs to slide into and excessive swiping to perfect, all now part and parcel of the modern path to romance.

Indeed, re-joining the dating scene can create a mixture of conflicting emotions; intimidation, excitement and curiosity. But if you feel like you’re out of the loop, don’t worry. We’re here to be that friend who fakes an emergency phone call to get you out of a bad date, that buddy who lends you their favourite dress, or the trusted wingwoman who knows when to slip away, with these; our 5 IDEAL tips for rejoining the dating scene.

CLEAR OUT YOUR WARDROBE

If your finest date-wear still reminds you of nights with your ex, or hails from a different era which now looks well out of place, then now is an excellent time to donate some to a charity shop, and get in some new threads.

Having a bit of a clear-out can give your confidence a boost, and can also be a great way to clear your head; a way of achieving some closure on what’s perhaps been a difficult path. Approaching the dating scene with a fresh, ‘new me’ mentality is one of the best steps you can take.

BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF

What is it you’re looking for on the dating scene? If you’re not sure you’re up for a relationship, but want the thrill of spending some quality time over a meal with a new date, then it’s best to figure that out first. Equally, if you’re keen to dive back into commitment and security, that’s fine too. Simply put, knowing your own expectations first before you head out means you won’t be left feeling confused, unclear in your intentions, and neither will your date. If you’re keen to find someone to settle down with, then it’s okay to admit that to yourself, too; just make sure you’re in the right headspace to do so.

GO ONLINE

The most popular and prolific dating apps and websites are constantly changing. Last year’s Tinder is this year’s Bumble is next week’s Hinge and forever it changes. After you’ve reached some conclusions about what it is you want, then it’s time to enjoy the fact that the internet has you covered when it comes to niche preferences. Rather than relying on fate to bring you to your dream partner, using the internet to bring them to you is a much more proactive course of action.

CHAT TO SINGLE FRIENDS

There’s nothing better than a good ol’ gossip to hear the worts’n’all version of the current dating scene. Yep, friends who are also single are perhaps the best way to find out what’s what in the world of dating in 2019. You might already be aware of most of their suggestions, but there are benefits to be found in knowing that someone else is out on the hunt too. Double date anyone?

BE COMFORTABLE WITH YOURSELF

While everyone has heard the sage words that you should find yourself before trying to find someone else, it’s good not to dismiss this simply as the hollow words of Instagram philosophy. While we’re all on a journey with ourselves to some extent, it’s always better to walk into a bar with a date and feel comfortable and confident in yourself, first and foremost.

5 IDEAL APPS TO HELP YOU GET A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP

We all want to improve our health and happiness, and getting a good night’s sleep is where it all begins. There are all manner of reasons getting in the way of those magic 8 hours, from stress about deadlines the next day, to blue screen based fixations, but whatever the reason, the common denominator is this; we’re not getting enough of it.

With the help of mobile phone insurance provider Insurance2go, here are 5 IDEAL apps to help you get a better night’s sleep.

SLEEP CYCLE – AVAILABLE ON IOS AND ANDROID

For those who are tired of tossing and turning throughout the night, experts recommend downloading Sleep Cycle. Users inform the app of the latest time they need to wake up by, and the app calculates the best time to set off an alarm. Sleep Cycle works by monitoring sleeping patterns throughout the night, waking users up during a light sleep instead of interrupting a deeper sleep. The app also displays a graph of the users deep and light sleep throughout the week, allowing users to track their sleeping habits and identify factors which both promote and hinder getting 8 hours of the good stuff.

SLEEPY TIME – AVAILABLE ON IOS AND ANDROID

This clever app knows that people usually wake up naturally at the end of a sleep cycle, which lasts for roughly 90 minutes, so it informs users of the best time to go to sleep. Users just need to enter their alarm time, and Sleepy Time works backwards to calculate the best time to actually fall asleep, helping users feel less groggy when they wake up to tackle the day. This app also works online, give it a go: sleepyti.me

SIMPLY BEING – AVAILABLE ON IOS AND ANDROID

Meditation isn’t just for hippies and monks, it’s perfect for anyone who’d like to take a breather. Whether you’re new or experienced, this app allows users to meditate easily with a step by step voice guide, for as little or as long as you’d like.

CALM – AVAILABLE ON IOS AN ANDROID

With Calm’s ‘7 Days of Calm’ feature, you’ll be led through the basics of mindfulness and meditation. This guided course is made of seven sessions, ranging from three to twelve minutes – ideal for taking a quick break or relaxing at night. The app has a variety of breathing exercises, meditations, soothing sounds and even sleep stories to choose from; making it a good all-rounder if you’re not sure where to start.

SLEEP WELL – AVAILABLE ON IOS AND ANDROID

If anxiety has a habit of troubling you just as you’re trying drift off to the land of nod, and you’ve tried other sleeping methods, you may be interested in Sleep Well. By listening to the 25-minute audio track, relaxing and falling into a deep sleep is made easier than ever. The track uses binaural beats in the background to induce brainwave frequency, while the soothing voice of a professional hypnotherapist can be heard over the top.

7 IDEAL TIPS FOR MOVING TO NEW YORK CITY & THE COMPANIES TO HELP

Yep, we were the same. It’s impossible to read the title of this one without getting that bloody song stuck in your head. But moving to any big city, let alone the Big City, is a serious, intimidating business. You might want to stick on some classical instead.

Whether it’s work, love or simply curiosity bringing you to the City that Never Sleeps, there are a few essentials to bear in mind to make the transition as smooth and seamless as possible. Here, to help you set sail and settle in, are 7 IDEAL tips for moving to New York.

OUR GUY ON THE GROUND

New York neighbourhoods are hugely diverse, with each a completely different proposition to the next. Within a borough, district, even block, lies a hugely diverging, unique personality and local pride. With the makeup and manoeuvring of each area forever in a state of shapeshifting, deciding from afar where you want to settle before you actually spend time there is a foolish move indeed.

It’s best practice to arrange a short term lease (sublet) in the city for a couple of months to get your bearings and figure out which ‘hood best chimes with your expectations. Legally, a sublet needs to last for a minimum of 30 consecutive days in NYC, but going through Airbnb negates this, at a cost. A cheaper option could be couchsurfing (still going strong in the city) which allows you to experience multiple areas more transiently.

JOB FIRST, APARTMENT LATER

Sure it might feel liberating to leave London (other cities are available) for New York with little in the luggage and even less on the agenda. But with no job secured, you might find yourself sinking fast, financially. New York is an expensive place with a lot of temptation, and the new-to-a-city mindset usually involves a huge amount of spending in the name of getting acquainted.

Practically, then, it’s well worth having a job secured, or at least for several interviews to be lined up, before you make the move. This is the most common trajectory for obtaining a Green Card or other visa which allows you to work in the country. Once you know where your office is, you’ll have a more clinical focus on where you’ll be looking to live.

GET RELIABLE MOVERS

Renting in New York is complex, costly and multi-layered. The good news is if you’ve rented in London you’ll be used to keeping your cool in the face of lousy landlords and pushy estate agents. Once you’re ready to make a more permanent move, getting your stuff across town is surprisingly affordable. Companies like NYC movers offer decent, competitive rates and cover all the boroughs. One less thing to worry about, we think.

LEARN LOCATION LINGO

Though it might make your head explode when first confronted with central New York’s layout, it’s actually kinda simple when you get used to it. A few pointers; avenues run north and south whereas for streets, it’s east and west. Odd numbered streets go west while even heads east, and odd-numbered buildings are on the north side of a street, even-numbered on the south (anyone got a compass handy?). Wait, there’s more; in Manhattan, uptown refers to, generally speaking, anywhere north of Central Park, midtown is between 59th and 30th, and downtown starts south of 30th. Confused? Perhaps one of these might help….

‘APPY TO HELP

If you’ve ever fallen asleep on the Piccadilly Line and ended up in Cockfosters, we’re sure Citymapper or Uber has come to your rescue. Both too make the New York travel experience a little easier. The app Exit Strategy NYC Subway Map makes travelling underground a lot easier. When you need something at your door, pronto, there are countless delivery based apps for the lazier denizens of the city; Postmates is probably the most popular. Finally, finding a public bathroom to do your business in New York is notoriously difficult, but the rather crudely named Sit or Squat will guide you to one.

ENTERTAIN YOURSELF FOR FREE AT FIRST

When you first arrive, you’ll need every extra cent at your disposal to find a place and settle in. In the first few months, it’s wise to enjoy the free stuff of the city rather than spending your budget on Brooklyn restaurants, ‘Burg bars and Broadway shows. Fortunately, there’s plenty to keep you entertained on the cheap.

The Museum of Modern Art (MOMO), one of the best of its kind in the world, offers free entry on Friday evenings (4pm to 8pm). Strolling the High Line also won’t cost you a dime, and gives amazing views of the city, the opportunity for some stargazing and people watching. Great stuff. If you want an even better view of Manhattan and beyond, a ride on the Staten Island Ferry comes at no cost. And of course, a stroll around Central Park or across Brooklyn Bridge needs no ticket and gets you well and truly acquainted with some of the most famous landmarks in the city.

MAKE SURE YOU PACK YOUR ‘LONDON ATTITUDE’

The ‘New York attitude’ is an infamous one. No smiling at strangers, no striking up of conversations on the subway and definitely, 100%, no ‘good mornings’ to people in your block. Well, if you’ve ever lived in London, you’ll be well learned in this lexicon. Or rather, lack of it. You’ll also know that, by and large, this reputation for the curt and unkindness is undeserved. Be polite, enthusiastic, arrive with open arms and an open mind, and the city will embrace you, too. Good luck!

4 IDEAL PLANTS TO PLACE IN YOUR BEDROOM

Finding it hard to nod off because of your room’s stuffy disposition? Is stress and anxiety causing sleepless nights of tossing, turning and turbulence? Or do you simply fancy adding a fresh flourish to your decor? Whatever the reason, if you’re looking to put the magic into ‘where the magic happens’, then look no further than plants. Indeed, they have a whole host of healing properties, from purifying the air, to promoting emotional wellbeing, and simply looking great, too.

Wait, we know what you’re thinking. Don’t be put off by that silly old wives’ tale that you shouldn’t have plants in your bedroom; it’s nonsense. The amount of carbon dioxide plants give off at night through photosynthesis is negligible. If anything, they promote better breathing – don’t believe us? Then just ask Nasa.

So with the help of  DM Design, a specialist designer of bespoke bedrooms, here’s 4 IDEAL plants to place in your bedroom. 

Aloe Vera

As a widely used medicinal plant, you’ll likely have already heard of Aloe Vera. The clear and cool gel of its leaf can be applied to burns, cuts, rashes and areas of sunburn to provide instant relief and speed up the healing process. Soothing indeed, but these restorative qualities extend far beyond skin application.

In addition to the above, Aloe Vera boasts another benefit in that NASA has deemed it one of the best air purifying plants. This is because they release oxygen on a regular basis during the night, not to mention fighting against both benzene (an ingredient of detergents) and formaldehyde (found in varnishes) to ensure a room’s air remains pure.

Because they are susceptible to frost, Aloe Vera plants are best kept indoors in a sunny location. Furthermore, planting them in a spacious pot that contains soil which has been well drained beforehand ensures a longer life.

Areca Palm

The Areca Palm goes by many aliases; the Bamboo Palm, the Golden Cane Palm and the Yellow Butterfly Palm, to name but a few. Whichever name you go for, know that it has also been included as one of NASA’s top air-purifying plants. What’s more, the plant has been said to be great for those who often have colds or sinus problems, due to it regularly releasing moisture into the air.

The plant will need to be in a spot with bright but indirect light. If you do expose it to direct sunlight, its leaves will turn a yellowish-green hue.

Chinese Evergreen

The Chinese Evergreen is a good choice for those looking for an easy-to-maintain houseplant. This is because the plant can grow even in areas of low light — no need to worry about placing it in a dark bedroom, then. The longer your Chinese Evergreen is in place in your bedroom, the greater the amount of toxins it removes.  

As well as keeping it away from bright sunlight (which can actually scorch its leaves), the plant should be watered regularly with cool water and fed with plant food once every three to four weeks.

Boston Fern

The ruffled leaves and air-purifying properties of the Boston Fern plant make it both a decorative and functional addition to your bedroom. The plant is very adept at removing formaldehyde from rooms. It is however extremely sensitive to chemicals. Smoke which comes from coal fires and wood burners can also be toxic to the plant, which means that they should be placed away from any spaces susceptible to draughts.

As the leaves of the Boston Fern droop down, place them in an area where their leaves can hang — for example, atop your wardrobe.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR SHOWCASING PHOTO ART IN YOUR HOME

“Wall art is the starting point of designing interior space; it is highly personal”. These are the wise words of Ed Godrich, co-founder of London-based Godrich Interiors. Indeed, creating an area in your home or office is a highly personal endeavour and while it’s great to get inspiration from interior design sites and magazines, a danger exists of your place ending up being a cold, hard copy of someone else’s dream. A certain way to insert your own sense of the individual, though, is through photography. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL tips for showcasing photo art in your arm.

FINE TUNING YOUR FOCAL POINT

A focal point is often the most important and under-appreciated part of the interior design, or so say the British Academy of Interior Design. And while it may sound a little generic – obvious even – the sentiment makes sense; the focal point is normally what you notice first when you enter a space. And first impressions count.

So, make sure your chosen photos truly demand the attention of those entering the room. It could be something as dramatic as a personal portrait or scenery from a recent stint of travelling. Choose something with a story behind it; a piece as conversation starter which you’d be happy elaborating on.

ESTABLISH MOOD

In interior design, a good way to establish the mood of space is through the use of colour and imagery. If you want to add personality and life, going with a gallery of photos is always a good idea. This looks like real thought has gone into the space; always a good look. A huge empty wall is often the best space for a gallery, according to CanvasPop. So if you happen to have a grand empty wall, then that’s practically begging to have photos hung on it. Of course, it is how you hang the gallery that can make it or break it.

DON’T LET THERE BE LIGHT

If you want to maximise the effect of your photos, it’s good to make use of lighting. Or not to make use of it, as it were. Because while natural light is best for illuminating a space, it has the opposite effect on photos. So, keep your photos out of natural light to protect them from fading.

Ceiling-mounted accent lights are a good option to emphasize a photo and draw the eye’s gaze towards it; you can even use the photos to create a sort of grid along the walls to lead guests toward a different area.

GIVE CLICHE A SWERVE

Should you be a little too self-conscious to display family portraits and huge close-ups of your lovely face, then displaying photos taken by a professional of something abstract or iconic is a good way to go. We’d caution heavily against cliched images found in every coffee shop and student dorm room, though. So, that’s no Lunch atop a skyscraper, then.

GET CREATIVE WITH FRAMING

You’ve put all of this thought into the subject matter of the photo and its positioning, but don’t neglect the frame; a key component of any photographic display in the home or office. A unique, creative turn in how you hang a piece can add real value far beyond the functional. The guys at freshome have some top notch tips here on having fun with your hanging.

5 Of The Best Rooftop Restaurants In Bangkok

First, let’s tame that Thai elephant in the room. Bangkok’s best food is found at street level, of that there is no doubt. Old shophouses unchanged for generations, family recipes equally as stubborn, wok slayers in their 70s and Chinatown noodle slingers; it just tastes better with your feet on the ground. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.

There are times, though, when you want to go that extra mile, upwards, for a special occasion or loved one, when the glittering majesty of the mega city needs to be admired from above. For those times, you’ve got these; our 5 IDEAL rooftop restaurants in Bangkok.

The Cielo

The Cielo Sky Bar and Restaurant goes full 360°, with uninterrupted, panoramic views of the world’s most visited city. Housed on the 46th floor of upper Sukhumvit’s Sky Walk Condominium, this joint sits a little outside the tourist throng of lower Sukhumvit, making for a younger, hipper crowd. It’s hugely welcome to see Thai food take centre stage here (not so common when dining in the clouds of Bangkok), with their menu a modernised, playful twist on some classics from the country’s culinary canon.

Their grilled tiger prawn and pomelo salad is as banging as the city its served in, and the version of street food favourite mu parlow is given refinement through quail, rather than traditional hen, eggs. The heady Chinese spice mix of the sois is all present and correct. Lovely stuff.

Verticgo

Don’t let the name put you off. I mean, you don’t actually have to stand at the edge and get all wobbly, right? Vertigo, the cherry on top of the Banyan Tree Hotel in Sathorn district, doesn’t actually induce any fear or unease 61 floors skywards, just a warm sense of hospitality and a killer view. The unique, slender design makes for a brilliant vista wherever you might be perched. Be warned, if you’re planning a pre-dinner drink in the adjoining Moon bar, it gets packed.

People generally come here for seafood, the iced fisherman’s tower in particular; an opulent display of the ocean’s finest including imperial caviar and Boston lobster. Its 5300 baht price tag might give you a little vertigo, too.

Above Eleven

There’s a lot going down on Sukhumvit Soi 11, and only some of it above board. This is Bangkok’s premier party street, with all the glamour and grunge that brings. If you want to escape the street level sleaze, to transition from neon to glittering, it’s worth casting gazes upwards.

Above Eleven is a 32 floor trip in the elevator of Fraiser Suites, and Nikkei – the marriage of Japanese and Peruvian food – is the name of the game here. There are flourishes of fauna, fake grass, lamps in the form of trees, all to bring about calm above the chaos. The views might not be as spectacular as Sirocco or Vertigo, but the food is great.

Sirocco

63 floors high enough for you? Ascend the State Tower and you’ll find the Lebua Hotel’s restaurant Sirocco, the highest al fresco restaurant in the world. Well, you did say you wouldn’t a decent vantage point, right? From here you’ve got a 270° view of Bangers, with Chao Phraya river visible in all its glory. The restaurant is multi-award winning, last year landing in Thailand Thatler’s top twenty list (bit of a tongue twister, that).

Menu wise, it’s refined Mediterranean fare, with prices as sky high as the venue itself; their tasting menu will set you back more than most Michelin starred joints in the city, but you’re not here for the food alone, right? If you do want to eat some of the finest in the capital close by, Mezzaluna is just two floors above. You will, however, have to dine indoors.

Scarlett

The Pullman hotel group rarely pull the punches when it comes to style and sophistication. Scarlett is emblematic of the company’s class; 37th floor flawless French food, extensive wine list, one hell of a view. It’s foolproof. The menu is ingredients led, leaning heavily on premium imported beef, with Japanese Kobe and grain fed, 35 day dry aged Wagyu sharing headliner status. Other classics a la Francaise are delivered with aplomb too; their terrines, pate and rillettes are all faultless. Michelin agrees, recognising Scarlett with a ‘plate’ award last year.

5 IDEAL GARDEN TRENDS FOR 2019

February’s unseasonably warm bout of T-shirt weather has got us thinking. One, about the impending doom our planet faces unless we change our collective habits. And two, a little more mundanely, about our garden’s readiness for spending some time in the spring sunshine.

In terms of last year’s trends, 2018 saw artificial grass, decking and upcycling take centre stage. This year looks to be a little different. So, with the help of plastic decking specialists, Arbordeck here are 5 IDEAL garden trends of 2019  

FIREPITS

‘Going out’ is getting a serious makeover this year. With food and beverage prices set to soar, pubs and bars closing with frightening prolificacy and restaurants struggling to stay afloat, entertaining at home is where it’s at.

So, while you might think of a fire pit as being an expensive addition to your space, it’s an investment if you’re going to be spending a lot of time in the garden this year. What’s more, they’re not actually all that expensive, with mini pits selling for as little as £25. Aside from the functional provision of heat, they’re also a great party focal point and conversation starter. And should you wish to remain silent, you can just enigmatically stare into the flames until they peter out.

GROW YOUR OWN

As any restaurant worth its Maldon sea salt continues to extol the virtues of hyper-local, hyper-seasonal dining, home cooks are starting to follow this trend more strictly, too. This spells great things for garden spaces (and dinner plates, too). Expect to see even more raised beds of fresh produce – as well as window sills packed with fresh herbs – cropping up in even the smallest garden space in 2019. Just remember to pay close attention to the seasons to determine both the best time to plant and the best time to eat your produce.

WALLPAPER

Wallpaper outdoors may seem a bit of a controversial call; after all, it’s going to get pretty dirty isn’t it? But, it can help bolster your area and bring it to life, adding a unique edge you won’t see in many other domestic outdoor spaces. You can stay on trend and match your paper to your surroundings (mouldy shade colour, anyone?) or you let your personality shine through and dazzle your guests with outlandish prints.

SMART LIGHTING

Landscape specialists the Rich brothers believe that smart lighting is about to illuminate the garden scene once again, as we continue to value ambience over practical concerns. The duo suggests positioning lights against trees so they create an uplight effect often seen in spas and well-designed hotel suites. In the garden space, it serves to draw your attention to a specific area of the garden that you wish to highlight.

ADULT TREEHOUSES

If you’ve got ample garden space, you might be tempted to follow this slightly implausible trend. We’ve all heard of the ‘man cave’ and ‘she shed’, but 2019 is set to be the year of the adult treehouse. We love a getaway and a little escapism, and if you have an area that allows it, then why not create a safe space to escape to when the world gets a little too much? Indeed ‘what goes on in the adult treehouse, stays in the adult treehouse’ may be our mantra for the coming year.

6 IDEAL THINGS TO DO ON YOUR WEEKEND AWAY IN BOURNEMOUTH

The ping of penny machines on the pier, the squawk of seagulls, the nostalgic scent of fish and chips permeating the fresh seaside air; if you’re looking for the quintessential British seaside escape then you can’t get much better than Bournemouth. But just like any beach break in Britain, you have to untangle some tat and sift some stodge to get to the really good stuff. Well, we’re here to help, with these; our 6 IDEAL things to do on your weekend away in Bournemouth.

FEAST ON THE LOCAL FISH

If you’re this close to the sea, where the fish is that little bit brighter, fresher and more delicious, you’ve just got to indulge. With a prime position on the sand and skimming stone’s throw away from the pier, West Beach is reputedly the best restaurant in Bournemouth and with good reason. Specialising in locally sourced seafood and serving up daily catches, the menu reads like a seafood lover’s dream. The atmospheric, glass-fronted building with folding doors that open onto a beachfront terrace is the perfect environment to enjoy the ocean’s bounty. Indeed, who needs Heston’s Sound of the Sea when you’ve got this?

Should that not satisfy your fish fix, there’s also Arbour restaurant. Located in an eco-friendly (they keep their own honey bees on the roof and the kitchen uses low energy induction cookers) hotel and boasting 2 AA Rosettes, it’s all about seasonal, sustainable, local ingredients here. Also good is Urban Reef, particularly for lunch, with its sundeck right on the promenade offering panoramic views of the Boscombe Bay.

© WestBeach Facebook© WestBeach Facebook

HIT THE TOWN

There’s a reason why Bournemouth attracts so many stag and hen dos; it boasts a bright, breezy and vibrant nightlife. While the city’s bar and nightclub scene is constantly changing and evolving, making it hard to keep up with where’s hip and trendy, there are certain pockets where it will always be busy. Most of the top nightlife spots are right in the centre and The Triangle (often referred to as the Gay Village) is home to a great LGBTQ+ scene.

If you’re looking for somewhere on the seafront then it’s got to be Aruba – by day families, tourists and locals come here to enjoy the chilled out vibes and food, come nightfall the music gets turned up a few notches and the dancing begins. The cocktails here are fantastic, especially their frozen strawberry daiquiri; refreshing and downright delicious.

© Aruba

GIGS GALORE

Bournemouth is home to three major concert venues, the Pavilion Theatre, BIC,and O2 Academy. For a city of its relative small size, it attracts some huge international names. Christine & The Queens and Madness both performed sold-out, critically acclaimed shows recently and next month sees both Bryan Adams and Shakin’ Stevens playing in the city.

WANDER AROUND THE UPPER, CENTRAL & LOWER GARDENS

Running between Bournemouth’s square and the sea, the award-winning Upper, Central and Lower Gardens are one of the most charming things about Bournemouth. Listed Grade II and retaining much of their original character, these gardens are the ideal place to take a stroll and appreciate Victorian inspired fauna and flora. During the summer months, the Lower Gardens, home to a bandstand, hosts concerts and throughout the year holds other events like candlelight nights and art exhibitions. There’s also a mini-golf and a giant tethered balloon in the lower gardens. Something for everyone, we think.

ENJOY PIER APPROACH & THE BEACH

Recently regenerated in 2018, Pier Approach is the gateway from Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens to the seafront, and is a stretch that most visitors to the city will likely step on during their time in the city. Last year saw the completion of a regeneration project which has made the approach a thriving destination in its own right; its big wheel offers sensational scenes of beach and town in the daytime and makes for a romantic ride when the sun is about to set.

Speaking of beaches, Bournemouth’s was crowned the U.K’s best at this year’s TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards. Offering a seven-mile stretch of soft golden sand, combined with swimmer-friendly waters and the fact that Bournemouth gets warmer weather than most of the UK, it’s one of the top places in Britain to enjoy the sand, sea and surf.

VISIT THE RUSSELL-COTES ART GALLERY & MUSEUM

With all this talk of sea, sand and silliness, you might think Bournemouth has little to offer in the cultural department. You’d be wrong. Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum is home not only to biannual exhibitions and the impressive, unique art collection of Sir Merton Russell-Cotes, but it’s also a fine, striking piece of architecture to boot. Designed by the architect John Frederick Fogerty, the building is part seaside villa, part tropical garden, both of which house stunning marble and bronze sculpture, painting and, of course, fantastic views of the sea.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR SCREEN TIME

I scream, you scream, we all scream for on screen. Said no one ever. But now we’ve got your attention, it’s time we had a little chat. You’ve been staring at your screen for so long that since you last looked up, the world has changed. And whilst we realise the irony of delivering this advice via a device, it really is high time that we collectively started using our phones, tablets and laptops less. Because our addiction is doing harm to our eyes, concentration, social lives and privacy, amongst other concerns, and something’s got to give. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to reduce your screen time.

ACKNOWLEDGE YOU HAVE A PROBLEM

The first step to recovery is by acknowledging a problem exists in the first place. Indeed, since screen time has become so ingrained in our everyday, it’s sometimes hard to notice just how reliant we are on our phones and the web. It’s important, though, not to get too tangled. Simple ‘screen time’ assessments provided by your phone can tell you just how long you’ve been flicking, swiping and clicking each day, and nine times out of ten, it’s a real eye opener. Once you’ve got over the shock, you can start to implement some solutions.

SCREEN-FREE ZONES

There are times when you need to be glued to a screen; for most of us, during the working day for instance. And that’s fine. But there are other occasions when phone or tablet use has become habitual, and it’s having a detrimental impact on our lives. If you value your sleep, and you really should, then you should keep devices away from the bed, preferably charging in another room. We all know the negative effects of a blue light on a good night’s rest, so be vigilant before bedtime.

Equally important are meal times; a part of the day when we can unwind, chat with family and appreciate the simple things in life like a great meal. If you’re fork in one hand and Tinder, Twitter or TikTok in the other, well, that’s not a good look during dinner. Don’t let phones disrupt this special, humble time. By enacting these small, positive changes, you’ll notice your screen time decreases significantly.

‘APPY TO HELP

Counterintuitive, we know, that you’d need an app to reduce your screen time. Sinister, even. But there’s plenty of software out there to help you use your devices less and negate the harmful effects of too much usage. ‘Freedom’ is one such app; helping you to block websites which you feel are distracting you. ‘Self Control’ is another, this time designed for Macs. Make sure you deploy your phone’s ‘night mode’ feature, too, which renders your screen in a far less appealing browny hue after hours, reducing sleep disruption and your phone’s addictive properties.

LESS ON SCREEN & MORE IN PERSON

That Whatsapp group of all your pals gossiping and sub-gossiping, complementing, backstabbing and seeking validation; have you noticed that the more you converse on there, the less you bother to actually meet in person? When was the last time you looked your friend in the eye and said something nice, rather than simply respond with another meme? Just say no. By dialling up the face-to-face socialising, and toning down the social networking, you’ll be reducing your screen time and getting out there and seeing your friends. A double win; killing two birds with zero tweets.

BE SCEPTICAL

With every permission granted, every ‘allow app to access location’ and the rest, you’re compromising your privacy, giving away your data for free and helping companies with malevolent agendas make the world a worse place. Be sceptical of every second you spend on screen, absentmindedly endorsing another rigged referendum or post-truth conspiracy theory.

5 IDEAL STAG OR HEN IDEAS FOR FITNESS FANATICS

Dry January has morphed into the drought of 2019. Normcore has become the norm, and staying in is the new going out. Slowly but surely, Britain is shifting its predisposition to getting plastered; a change in the collective culture which is doing wonders for our health and wellbeing. Gym memberships are on the rise, and people are getting wise to the myriad benefits of a consistent exercise regime. Great stuff indeed, but what does this mean for the Great British stag or hen send off? Well, there’s still plenty of fun to be had without a hangover the next day, that’s for sure; here are 5 IDEAL stag or hen ideas for fitness fanatics.

TEAM SPORTS

Stag and hen parties are often a hotbed of inter-friendship-group tension and tetchiness. A little bonding prior to the big day can do wonders for wedding day harmony, and also give the perfect ice breaker for those who don’t know each other so well within the party. What’s more, the fitness benefits of team sport can be immense. Ideal, and bragging rights to be earnt which the winners can cash in on the wedding day.

PARKOUR

Limber up, let loose and, hopefully, let fly, too. Giving your pre-wedding party a truly adrenaline filled, modern twist could be just the ticket. No illegal highs here, just the natural sort achieved by vaulting obstacles and jumping between buildings. You’ll certainly break a sweat, too, if that’s your thing. The sport has experienced something of a lift-off in the public eye of late, and there are now multiple parkour facilities all over the country.

For beginners, a safe, padded environment will prevent any pre-wedding hiccups; bride on walking on crutches up the aisle anyone? You’ll be able to embrace your inner child on trampolines and foam pits while testing your acrobatic skills on more complicated obstacles; a fantastic workout for your legs and abdomen, as well as an intense cardio workout that can rival many other activities.

PAINTBALL

You wouldn’t traditionally associate stag do paintball with a great work out, but actually, it can get pretty intense. Rallying a troop of friends and embarking on a fun-filled day of paintball is ideal for stretching your legs, blowing off steam and creating memories which could equip the best man or chief bridesmaid with an amusing anecdote for their speech.

But what are the fitness benefits? For a start, what better way to motivate you to run fast than the looming threat of a paintball hurling towards you? You’ll also benefit from short, explosive bursts of cardio, and the stances required for covert, clinical shooting do a great job of replicating conventional exercises such as squats and burpees.

INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING

Indoor rock climbing is a classic leisure activity, but in recent years, it’s enjoyed a boost in popularity due to its benefits in strength and resistance training. Bouldering, a more simplistic version of rock climbing in which you’re closer to the ground, allowing you to forgo the safety harness, is a fine compromise if you have more tentative members within your group.

On the surface, bouldering may seem easier, but the truth is that it requires more in the way of creative thinking, adept problem solving, and strength to hold onto more difficult areas. This, of course, is a phenomenal workout for your arms, but the need to maintain your core and stretch in various directions will give you an extensive full-body workout. If the groom or bride to be is looking to get a little more toned for the big day, a hoist up the climbing wall is a great way to achieve this.

CHOREOGRAPHED DANCING CLASS

We’ve all seen those group dances of the groomsmen or the bridesmaids that have gone viral in recent years. Well, why not create your own that you can perform as a surprise on the wedding day? Dancing is a whole-body workout which is also a whole lot of fun; great for an energetic and hilarious hen or stag party. It can be difficult to find an active activity that will suit the fitness levels of everyone you want to invite, from younger sisters to mothers-in-law, but a choreographed dancing is suitable for all the group.