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5 IDEAL TIPS ON WHAT NOT TO DO IN THE INTERVIEW PROCESS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS ON WHAT NOT TO DO IN THE INTERVIEW PROCESS

2019 and the New Year brings resolutions. A new liver, new lungs, a new outlook, new abs. And perhaps a new career? However, taking the plunge and diving into a job search is a daunting task; the deep end is full of sharks and bottom feeders, no doubt. But amongst the shipwreck, there’s treasure, if only you can float to the top during that pesky interview. Make no mistake; there’ll be bait dangled and questions cast purely to catch you out, so it’s best to be alert and ready.

With that in mind, and with the help of healthcare and education recruitment specialists Athona, here are 5 IDEAL tips on what NOT to do in the interview process.

TURNING UP UNPREPARED

If you turn up to an interview without doing your homework, it will show. It may seem obvious that you need to do some research before attending an interview, but a huge number of job hunters still don’t sufficiently research the company before getting a grilling. This looks sloppy, uninterested and in most cases, automatically rules you out of the running.

You should be able to prove that you know their business, you understand what the job entails, and you are just the kind of person they are looking for. And why. How? Study the job description, look for recent news on the business, and pay attention to their social media channels.

As well as researching the company and job role, you should also prepare for every interview by thinking of your answers to common interview questions. Turn up to the meeting already knowing your top accomplishments, examples of dealing with conflicts, and reasons why you want this job. Being prepared will bring a sense of confidence and give you organised structure to your answers. And depending on the job, you may need to bring a portfolio. 

PRETENDING YOU’RE PERFECT

Everybody has their own strengths and weaknesses, and whilst it can be tempting to act like you never make mistakes and have no downfalls, interviewers want to know about your areas of expertise. They also want a realistic candidate; somehow who is self aware. Always be honest with your weaknesses but present them with a positive spin by highlighting them as an area you’re working on for self-improvement. No interviewer will believe that you have no areas of weakness, and being able to identify them and work on them is a strength in itself. And please, please avoid identifying your only weakness as ‘perfectionism’.

ASKING THE WRONG QUESTIONS (OR NO QUESTIONS AT ALL)

It may not feel like it, but an interview is a two-way process. Keeping this in mind should give you confidence when channeled correctly. Not only are you there for the company to decide if you’re a good fit for the role, but you should also be deciding if they are a company you want to work for. Take advantage of the face to face opportunity by asking thoughtful questions that will not only provide you with valuable insights, but also make you stand out from other candidates.

Don’t say: ‘what’s the salary?’.

Do say: ‘what opportunities does the company offer for personal and professional development?’.

‘HEY, I’M EARLY’

It’s obvious that you should never turn up late to a job interview but turning up too early can be a big mistake too. Interviewers are busy, they probably have a full day of interviews lined up, along with plenty of other preparation and debriefs. If you turn up 30 minutes early, it inconvenient for interviewer and start the meeting off on the wrong foot. Of course, it’s always good to allow extra time to arrive at the location, especially if it’s a new place that you’re unfamiliar with or you’re relying on public transport to get you there. However, if you do end up getting there very early, sit in a local coffee shop or wait in your car until closer to your interview time. Arriving about ten minutes early for an interview is usually best practice, as it shows you are organised and reliable, whilst also giving you some time to compose yourself and prepare.

USING POOR BODY LANGUAGE

The age old saying of actions speak louder than words is to an extent true when it comes to a job interview. If you are fidgeting and avoiding eye contact, your interviewer will pick up on this and see it as a negative. Whilst most interviewers won’t hold slight nerves against you, if you are able to stay cool, calm and collected it will give a much better impression.

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR ANNUAL LEAVE IN 2019

Editorial Team
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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR ANNUAL LEAVE IN 2019

Christmas is over, January is dragging its cold, miserable feet, and you’ve most likely got nothing of note on the calendar for quite some time. Deadlines need to be met, overtime endured and colleagues tolerated. Oh lord, give me some light at the end of this torrid tunnel.

Well, you’re in luck. What if we told you that you could double the amount of holiday you get, just by strategically booking your annual leave? Well, we’re about to. So first read on, and then get those holiday request forms in early. With the help from the guys at Gear Hungry, here’s the IDEAL guide to making the most of your annual leave in 2019.

APRIL 2019 (EASTER)

Date of your holiday: 13th April -28th April

If you’re going to get tactical with your downtime, then your April holiday will be the longest. As there are two bank holidays over this period (the 19th and 22nd) and three weekends, you can double your holiday over the Easter period with a 16-day break with only 8 days taken out of your holiday allowance.

EARLY MAY (2019)

Date of your holiday: 4th -12th May

You won’t have to worry about settling back into work after your April holiday, as potentially you’ll be off in early May, too. With help from the bank holiday on the 6th and two weekends, you’ll be enjoying a lovely 9 day holiday with only 4 days taken from your allowance.

LATE MAY 2019 

Date of your holiday: 28th – 31st May

Keep your newfound holiday streak going strong with another 9-day break. Once again, only 4 days will be taken out of your allowance. May has yet another bank holiday on the 27th May, so utilise this with another two weekends and you’ll be feeling smug when reflecting on your easiest working month to date. Your bank balance might be grimacing rather than wearing a smirk though, so keep on top of your budget before this orgy of holidays.

AUGUST 2019 

Date of your holiday: 24th August -1st September

As it’s been a whole three months since your last excursion, it would be rude not to book another, right? RIGHT. And another 9-day break using just 4 days of allowance (thanks to a bank holiday sitting on 26th August) will be just the ticket after those three months without a break. The month of August is prime time for a summer break, so why not put those sunglasses on and chase the sun? However, if your work are getting a bit funny about all these holidays you’re booking we’d suggest sacrificing this one as holiday prices in August can cost a pretty penny.

DECEMBER 2019 

Date of your holiday: 21st December – 1st January

Christmas is a time for family and friends, so why not make the most of it? Give yourself a 12-day winter break and only use 5 days of your holiday allowance in doing so. You’ll have time to recover from all the festivities and start planning for next year’s holidays too.

 

6 IDEAL WAYS TO BEAT WORKPLACE STRESS

Editorial Team
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6 IDEAL WAYS TO BEAT WORKPLACE STRESS

Phew, Blue Monday has passed and things are hopefully turning a shade of rosy on the other side. The New Year’s resolutions are still intact, our bank balance survived the first three weeks of 2019 and we’ve got a great song stuck in our head. But what about the other 364 days of the year? Shouldn’t we be being vigilant about those guys too?

Indeed, 2018 saw the UK rank 5th worst in the world for unmanageable stress, behind only the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Australia and Korea. Because of this, it’s been reported that 53% of millennials prioritise an employer with a workplace health and wellbeing programme.

It’s vital, then, to reclaim a positivity in the workplace, for both employers and their staff to reach their full potential. We’ve teamed up with Athona, healthcare and education specialists, to give you our 6 IDEAL ways to beat workplace stress.

SET BOUNDARIES

The shrinking of the world had led to a massive rise in expectations regarding when and where we should be working. Evenings, weekends, even when we’re on holiday; nothing is off limits now in terms of when you should be available and ‘on’. But you need to set boundaries, both for yourself, and your colleagues and bosses.

This could be a rule to not answer the phone during dinner or when out with friends, or not allowing yourself to check emails at the weekend. Everyone will have different opinions when it comes to blending office and home life but drawing a few red lines in the sand will prevent work-life conflict and the stresses that come with it.

It is also wise to remember that there are no boundaries around colleagues and managers. Joanne Waggerman, Talent & Development Manager at Athona says, ”it’s important to remember stress is not a sign of not being able to do a good job and therefore something to be hidden. If you’re feeling stressed speak with a line manager or colleague, it may be that you just need someone to help you to refocus, re-prioritise and feel in control again. Letting others know is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength.”

CLOSE OFF EACH WORKING DAY WITH A RITUAL

A neat little trick, innocuous-sounding even. But by signifying to yourself that your working day is finished with a small daily ritual, you’ll be saying to yourself and others that the day is done. This could be by tidying your workspace and putting everything away, or writing a list of what you are going to get done tomorrow. Creating a set habit that you complete at the end of every working day can help you to switch off from work and prevent you from feeling the need to carry on working once you’re home in the evening.

KEEP A STRESS JOURNAL TO IDENTIFY TRIGGERS

It sounds simple on paper, and as such, it should be on paper. Being able to identify which situations at work cause undue stress is the first step to reducing it. So, keep a workday journal of times when you felt particularly under pressure, what caused it, and whether you were able to resolve it. Note down your feelings, thoughts and any information about the situation, including who else was involved, the physical setting and the circumstances. Keep track of your own reaction as well; did you get angry and raise your voice? Retreat from the situation and go for a walk? Head to the canteen for a quick snack? By keeping a journal, you’ll be able to identify triggers and the best ways to avoid them.

WORK/LIFE BALANCING ACT

A study from Glassdoor revealed that the average UK employee knowingly loses 6.5 days of annual leave through fear of being out of the office. We work some of the longest hours in Europe here in the U.K which means we often don’t get much time to switch off, disconnect and recharge. But a decent work/life balance shouldn’t be a dirty word or pipe dream. It is eminently achievable. ‘You can’t take it with you when you go’, indeed.

WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER

A contributing factor in having to work late or at home after work is a certain amount of inefficiency at task completion during the working day. It’s important then, to work smarter, not harder. Stay away from distractions like social media and online shopping during working hours; draw up a plan for the day on the tube to work; delegate when appropriate; all of these seemingly small actions will lead to less overspill of work into your free time. Result!

DON’T BE AFRAID TO SEEK SUPPORT

A fair amount of stigma still exists in seeking support when feeling stressed. Steps forward have been made in recent years, but there’s still a long way to go.

Dealing with stress alone is likely to exacerbate the problem. So accept – no, actively enlist – help from friends, family and colleagues in order to relieve the mental strain you’re under. If you are feeling really overwhelmed in the workplace, speak to your supervisor for support. As employee health has a big impact on productivity at work your boss has their own incentive to help create a work environment that promotes employee well-being. There may also be stress management resources available from an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). This could include counselling, mental health support and various resources designed to help manage stress in the workplace.

THE IDEAL FOODIE GUIDE TO 48 HOURS IN COPENHAGEN

Joseph Gann
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THE IDEAL FOODIE GUIDE TO 48 HOURS IN COPENHAGEN

A long weekend in Copenhagen is one of life’s great pleasures, especially for foodies. Brimming with everything from streetfood stalls and markets to casual cafes and fine-dining establishments, the city has it all.  If you’re after some culinary inspiration this is the place to come.  It’s the epicenter of the not so new New Nordic Cuisine movement, as well as a whole host of fantastic restaurants and food markets from cuisines across the globe. Bring a full wallet and a hungry belly and prepare for 48 IDEAL foodie hours in Copenhagen.

Breakfast

Breakfast in Denmark is a wonderfully wholesome affair and an amazing way to kickstart your day. Breakfast for the Danes isn’t just a quick fix to provide fuel for your daily commute. It’s a state of mind. They believe that starting the morning in a certain way will set the tone for the day ahead. If you wake up late, rush to get ready and have breakfast on the go, then the rest of your day will be the same – rushed and stressful.

Start your day with a bountiful spread of rye-bread and cold cut, and the rest will follow. So take time to enjoy a Nordic breakfast the Danish way, which any half decent hotel will supply – we love the spread at Hotel Kong Arthur. Alternatively, any of these  joints for breakfast in Copenhagen are just perfect.

Morning

After breakfast, head to Tivoli gardens for a stroll. The gardens are beautiful any time of year. If you want to add some excitement to your morning, have a ride on a rollercoaster. Tivoli Gardens is home to one of the oldest amusement parks in the world and is full of magic and whimsy. Feeling peckish? Have an elevenses snack at Grøften. Opening it’s doors in 1874, it’s one of the oldest restaurants in the city, serving traditional Danish fare. Their peeled baby shrimps are enduringly popular.

When it’s time to start thinking about lunch, think Papier Island. Treat the journey as a highlight in itself. Whether you walk or bike there, be sure to take in a stroll down Nyhavn on your way. It’s that picturesque street with a canal in the middle, filled with masted ships you seen in all the travel guides to Copenhagen. We love this street. The whole length of it is lined with outdoor tables filled with revellers drinking and eating. Join in and have a coffee or blonde beer- it’s five o’clock somewhere in the world, after all, as if you needed an excuse.

If it takes your fancy, Copenhagen’s most famous monument ‘The Little Mermaid’, created in tribute to the writer Hans Christian Andersen, is close by.

Lunch

Just across the Bridge from Copenhagen, you’ll find Papirøen (“Paper Island”), once home to warehouses which stored rolls of newsprint for the Danish press, hence the name. This place has now become Copenhagen’s most popular street food market, serving up food from all over the world. This area is also a creative hub, with architects in situ and art showrooms well worth checking out.

You can also visit the original site of Noma, once the world’s most famous restaurant, now Restaurant Barr, a great dining option in its own right. The market is open all year round. Come winter this place is the epitome of hygge – think roaring fires and candlelit tables, but in summer the party moves outside with throngs of foodies enjoying snacks and beer in the sun.

Afternoon

Walk off lunch by heading to Freetown Alexandra Christiania, a bastion of hippie life. If you’re still hungry, this area is a haven for vegetarian food and Morgenstedet, a cafe with a lovely garden, is worth a visit if you’re feeling peckish.

If you’re in the mood for an afternoon coffee, head to Sunshine Bakery and pair one with a snegl (snail); a swirly, cinnamon-laced pastry. Or try the Romkugle (rum balls) made from leftover pastries or Denmark’s famous drømmekage (dream cake) which is essentially a caramelised coconut sponge cake. While you can’t buy any hash cakes in this particular cafe, this place is perfect if you’ve got the munchies.

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Dinner

108 first started as a pop-up within the walls of Noma, and was successful enough to warrant its own space next door. The best thing about 108 is that it isn’t simply in thrall to its big brother’s ethos, it manages to stylistically differentiate itself and is all the more interesting for it. Taking the best of the laid back service of which the New Nordic has so expertly honed, and channelling something altogether unique, it’s a real cracker of a restaurant in a city already spoilt for choice in this field. The cooking is so thoughtful and delicate, yet still leaves you satisfied and sated. If you’re to choose one place in Copenhagen to experience the ever-evolving Scandi food ethos – go to 108.

Morning

If you’re still full from yesterday’s eating extravaganza, use the morning to rest your belly. Head to  Det Vide Hus (one of Rene Redzepi’s favourite places) next to King’s Garden, have an espresso and a pastry and walk around the park. Spend the rest of the morning in this area wandering around the streets, aimlessly; the best way, sometimes.

Lunch

Torvehallerne market is where you’ll find stalls selling everything from seafood to craft beer.  Offering both Danish and international food stalls, excellent local charcuterie and cheese, and local seafood and vegetables, the choice is vast and the vibe welcoming. A trip to Copenhagen wouldn’t be complete without sampling an open faced sandwich and Torvehallerne market is our favourite place to experience this quintessential Nordic delight. Or if you want to have a proper sit down lunch, simply have a snack at the market and then head to Schønnemann. This old-fashioned lunch-only destination in the city centre has been open since 1877; you’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time. Come here to drink schnapps and eat a freshly made smørrebrød,

Afternoon

Walk to Vestebro, our favourite area of Copenhagen. Like London’s Shoreditch and New York’s Williamsburg, Vesterbro heeds the hipster call and, appropriately, is number 4 on Thrillist’s top 10 most hipster neighbourhoods on Earth.  Have a cup of coffee at one of the numerous cafes along the way, and simply luxuriate in the good vibes. Located in Vesterbro is the Meatpacking District – one of Copenhagen’s most popular places to go out. Hungry? Go to John’s Hot Dog Deli and eat a famous Danish hot dog (Polser), or if you see one on the street, get one . Topped with crispy fried onions and thinly slice pickles, they’re a culinary phenomenon in Denmark and considered among  the best  in the world by many a hot dog connoisseur.

Late Afternoon

It’s time for a drink at Warpigs in the Meat Packing District. Based on traditional American barbeque joints, with a heavy metal soundtrack to match, its no frills location in the popular meatpacking district matches the atmosphere perfectly; this place is a hoot. There are up to 22 craft ale and beer taps, provided by its onsite brewery, ranging from session strength to one-sip-will-blow-your-rocker-off, and long tables reminiscent of a Bavarian beer hall. The food is not an after-thought to the beverages, it stakes a claim to being the main event. Try the beef brisket and burnt ends. Delicious.

Dinner

Based in the same, gritty Vesterbro district as Warpigs, Kodbyens Fiskebar is a Copenhagen institution, famed for its super fresh, intricate yet simply presented seafood dishes. The fish is the star on every plate, caught from the surrounding waters and treated with according respect, and is presented beautifully. It’s a large restaurant with a bar running through the middle, creating a buzzy atmosphere where you’re equally at home having a feature-length meal as you are a glass of wine and a snack. Although fish is the undoubted headline act, we have to mention the desserts. They are highly original and utterly stunning on both palate and eye – worth a trip for one with a glass of sweet one alone.

The Meatpacking District is the hottest nightlife destination in town so to squeeze the last drop of fun from your weekend, across the way is Jolene’s, where drinks and dancing carry on late in to the night.

After that you may well be hungry again and in need of some food to soak up all the shots of schnapps and beer. A 20(ish) minute walk from Jolene’s is late-night taco-joint Barbaritto, open until 2am on Friday’s and Saturday’s. And with that, job done – a foodie’s 48 hours in Copenhagen.

5 IDEAL FOODIE THINGS TO DO IN DENIA, SPAIN

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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5 IDEAL FOODIE THINGS TO DO IN DENIA, SPAIN

We’ve all heard of San Sebastian as the foodie destination in Spain. And sure, it well and truly deserves its place amongst the pabulum pantheon. But to hone in too precisely on this small corner of North Eastern Spain is to neglect some of the country’s lesser know hidden gems. We were recently introduced to another Spanish city of gastronomy that is equally as revered by those of the culinarily curious mindset. That place is Denia.

If we could afford to buy a second home or found a villa for sale in Denia large enough, we would be relocating our office there, just for the food, the fiestas (they have more than any other city in Spain) and for some serious sun basking.

Denia is a place where the sea and the mountains merge, offering the best bounty from both worlds, and driving a foodie scene which is both modern yet pays its dues to tradition and respect to the produce of the area. The food industry is listed as the main economic driver of the city and in 2015 Denia was designated Creative City of Gastronomy by UNESCO. So with a unique culinary heritage and outstanding local ingredients, if you’re a foodie looking for gastronomic nirvana, then it’s time to visit. To help you out on your upcoming trip, here are five IDEAL foodie things to do in Denia, Spain.

HARDCORE PRAWN

The Denia red prawn – a supreme sea specimen that is widely considered to be the best prawn in Spain. These crustaceans are so revered they have even inspired music of deference and devotion, and are the subject of ‘La banda sonora de la Gamba Roja de Denia,’ an 18-minute piece of symphonic music for wind instruments and percussion.

But what makes them so good? Firstly, they aren’t easy to catch as they like to live in deep, dark and cold water where there is little to no pollution. Here they are free to grow to a deliciously large and plump size as there aren’t many predators lurking at those depths. Taste wise, due to an unusually high concentration of iodine and salt in their flesh, the prawn has an intense ‘ocean flavour’ with a touch of sweetness. Moreover, the head is much larger than your average prawn, offering huge head-sucking possibilities, where a unique explosion of juices, full of concentrated iodized flavours, take the prawn to a whole other level.

Red spicy prawns from Dénia | © City Foodsters

ENJOY TAPAS

The quaint, historic street of Calle Loreto, which runs right up to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, is the ideal strip to appreciate a wide range of delectable tapas dishes. In the heart of the pedestrian old town, the area is one where it’s entirely possible – encouraged even – to take your time and imbibe for hours. It’s the gastronomic centre of town, where every other shop seems to be serving some delicious morsel which you can knock back with a glass of Valenician wine.

Another great spot for the national past time of tapas and people watching is Calle Marques de Campo which acts as the main artery of the city. It’s a pretty tree-lined boulevard with pavement cafes and on the weekend it becomes pedestrianised and restaurant seats spill out onto the street, creating a convivial vibe for the evening ahead.

However,  If you really want to make the most out of the best tapas in the city, twice a year the city hosts a ‘tapas route’ where you can acquire a ‘passport’ and participants will sell you their choice and beer, wine or vermouth for just €3.

Cinara’s Birthday meal | © Ben 30

GO TO AS MANY RESTAURANTS AS YOU CAN

From Michelin starred restaurants to the aforementioned, equally brilliant traditional tapas bars, Denia is home to over 400 restaurants. The only problem, then, is deciding where to eat.  If you’re after prawns, sea urchin (another ocean critter Denia does well) and other things from the big blue, Las Marinas is a gorgeous area, with tons of beautiful beach-front seafood eateries.

For a real treat, head to El Bater De Miquel Ruiz. The chef had a Michelin star, but decided to reject that ‘pretentious’ world, and it shows in this relaxed and friendly restaurant which serves modern takes on Spanish classics. However, book a couple of months in advance as this place is popular to avoid disappointment.

The city’s most famous chef is Quique Dacosta who is one of the new leaders of the country’s avant-garde, super modernist cuisine. Using ingredients that are sourced within 75km of his restaurant and with three Michelin stars, he’s one of the most admired chefs in the world right. And, if we must say, one of the suavest.

GO TO A FOODIE FESTIVAL

Or should we say plan your trip around one? Since Denia is officially a ‘Creative City of Gastronomy’ there’s a list of Gastronomic events larger than the average chef’s knife collection to choose from. Every year they hold a ‘creative cuisine competition’ with an annual participation of 50 chefs from across the globe. Here the cooks create dishes from the highly prized prawn we previously eulogised. While gourmands generally agree the best way to eat this prawn is boiled in her own seawater without anything added to mask the natural flavour, the competition and unique dishes still allow for some sparks of creativity and intrigue. Then there’s the D*na Gastronomic Festival, which pays tribute to Mediterranean Denia’s cuisine, and even an International Tapas Day, held over three days each year.

COOK YOUR OWN FOOD

A stroll around a food market should be on every visitor’s holiday hit list. But what’s the point of looking if you’re not some cooking? Indeed. We can’t say it enough; the produce in Denia is outstanding (especially the stuff from the ocean) and any foodie fanatic would be a fool not to get their hands dirty and get amongst it.

Every day, boats chug into Denia’s port at about 3.30pm full of high quality seafood and fish. They are auctioned at La Lonja de Pescado (a city fish market) and then sold to the public from around 5pm. It’s great fun to watch, and even more participate in.

Or, devote one of your mornings to milling round the municipal market on Magallanes Street which is open until 2pm. Then head to the port in the late afternoon to pick up some fresh-off-the-boat fish for your evening meal. For this, a homestay or villa in Denia with a kitchen is essential, and totally worth spending a little more money on.

A Few Local Delicacies…

Besides Denia’s prized prawn, there’s a whole host of other dishes you must try. Everything here is just delicious, but to avoid the needing to buy an extra plane seat on the way back we’ve narrowed it down to a few local culinary specialties

  • Arròs a banda (seafood paella) – Yes we know, you can eat it everywhere in Span. However, paella is originally from the Valencia region and paired with Denia’s red prawns, is a match made in seafood heaven.
  • La llandeta (seafood stew) – need we say more?
  • Cocas – The artisanal cocas, cooked in a wood-fired oven, are a bit like mini pizzas, and as simply, satisfyingly delicious as one. Try traditional Coca de guisantes (pea) or Coca de anchoas (anchovy) or any topped with espencat (grilled vegetables).

5 IDEAL REASONS TO GO ON AN ADVENTURE HOLIDAY

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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5 IDEAL REASONS TO GO ON AN ADVENTURE HOLIDAY

As normcore becomes the erm, norm, more and more young people are seemingly looking for fun which comes with a PG rating attached. And as such, sex, drugs and rock’n’roll is out, and chasing adrenaline-high holidays are in. The term, of course, could take on many guises; if your idea of getting the pulse racing is a steam train ride in sleepy Swanage, for instance, then we can’t stop you billing it as an adventure holiday. We, however, are talking about excursions and sports which fall somewhere at the ‘extreme’ end of the spectrum. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL reasons to go on an adventure holiday.

BOND AND BUILD

When taking a trip which promises adrenaline and adventure with your friends or family, a special type of bond is created. Not many have seen the look of fear in your best mate’s eyes (or the stain on their cream coloured shorts) and come out the other side with a deeper understanding of their companion. Working together to reach a goal or to get to a certain location can help to improve relationships and the ability to communicate with each other, so it’s a great choice for a work team building exercise, too.

OPTIONS ABUNDANT

If having to pick between 25 different brands of supermarket rice is likely to raise your heartbeat, then an adventure holiday probably isn’t for you. But, if a wealth of options gets you hot under the collar, then it’s time to pack your bags and seek an extreme sports getaway. What’s great is the sheer scope and variety of options; things like rock climbing, enjoying a Spitfire flight, hiking, kayak fishing, parkour and white water rafting are just some of the many options available. The same goes for the scenery; vast, varied and invigorating.

There is a huge choice and as long as you are prepared for the activity with the right training and equipment, fun and thrills await. Always consult the experts first on what you need to bring along; this buyer’s guide to the top pedal kayaks, for instance, will help you figure out which one to buy if you’d like to get involved in kayak fishing.

MEMORY MAKER

Another ideal reason why you should go on an adventure holiday is the amazing memories that you’ll make. Jumping out of a plane, skiing down a mountain, ziplining over a jungle; these are the moments that you can tell your grandchildren about in years to come. And, seeing as the emphasis is on natural highs rather than those made chemically, you’ll actually be able to remember them, too.

IMPROVE YOUR CONFIDENCE

Taking the deep dive in something new can only go one of two ways; you love it or you chalk it up as ‘doesn’t float my boat’. There really is nothing to lose. As such, trying out new things and getting stuck into new experiences is risk free; the least it will do is give your confidence and self-esteem a boost. The most? Well, the possibilities are endless.

EXPLORE NEW PLACES, APPRECIATE STUNNING SCENERY

It’s well known that adventure holidays and beautiful, rugged, extreme scenery go hand in hand. After all, you couldn’t cliff jump off a boring hill into a murky lake, now could you? So, as much as getting the adrenaline levels turned up to 11, such a trip is about exploring new places, learning and seeing new things, and taking in all of those amazing views.

5 IDEAL THINGS TO DO IN BLOEMFONTEIN, SOUTH AFRICA

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL THINGS TO DO IN BLOEMFONTEIN, SOUTH AFRICA

Off the beaten path used to be so easy; buy a plane ticket to a country that’s not Spain or France, make a break for somewhere rural, find a path, step off it left or right and find yourself in untouched, unspoilt beauty. But in 2019, it seems like it’s all been done before. Matcha Pichu is so packed there’s not enough room to swing a selfie stick. Thai beaches are ko phi phit to bursting with preening posers. There’s no elbow room left to take a seat at Table Mountain. And is anyone even looking up from their phones to appreciate the natural wonder?

Fortunately, there are still some places yet to be rendered in sepia soaked 1080px.  South Africa’s vibrant, varied central region is one such place. The capital, Bloemfontein, South Africa, is the heartbeat of the country’s majestic Free State. This interesting city is unburdened from the hustle and bustle of most large cities; laid back and replete with museums, heritage and buildings of historical intrigue.

What’s more, the restaurants and accommodation options of Bloemfontein also have a fine reputation. If that’s got your opening a new tab and searching for flights, you’ll soon be penning an itinerary. So, here are 5 IDEAL things to do in Bloemfontein, South Africa.

NATURE PARKS & RESERVES

The best time to visit Bloemfontein is from March to April and September to December, as these are the spring/summer months. Bloemfontein means “fountain of flowers” and during these bouts of fine weather, the city really is in bloom. The city and its surround area’s nature reserves and parks are filled with a fauna and wildlife you won’t see anywhere else. So, get amongst it at Soetdoring Dam Nature Reserve, Maria Moroka Game Reserve and the Franklin Nature Reserve, to name but a few. Off the beaten path, indeed.

BLOEMFONTEIN ZOO *now closed*

If your thirst for the exotic hasn’t been fully quenched, but an African safari might be a step too far into the unknown, the city has a zoo housing the famed animals of the splendid African savannah, and many more besides. Bloemfontein Zoo hosts the Big Game 5 of the region; lions, leopards, rhinos,  buffaloes and African bush elephants, as well as panthers, tigers and hippopotamus.

What’s more, it’s famous for its liger, a cross between a lion and a tiger. For those who enjoy flights of fancy of the feathered kind, birdlife is in abundance. All boxes ticked, then.

*Unfortunately, as of September 2022 following a scandal at the zoo, it has permanently closed*

THE ORCHID HOUSE

True to the city’s name, Bloemfontein is a celebration of all things floral. The city is home to the magnificent Orchid House, which exhibits these rare, delicate flowers perfectly. Within the nursery’s glass domed greenhouse, orchids of all shapes and sizes are found. During the winter months the orchids are in bloom, so if this is your thing, make sure to be in town to see the spectacle.

ADRENALINE CHASING

The opportunity for raising the pulse are plentiful. So many romanticise the idea of a hot-air balloon. In Bloemfontein, this dream can become reality. The views are unspoilt and spectacular, but it can get a little nippy up there, so make sure you pack a jacket.

For those looking for something a little more exciting, river rafting along the Orange River – the largest in South Africa – is a way to get your adrenaline junkie fix and take in some great scenery.

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF BLOEMFONTEIN

Bloemfontein is filled with history and the city’s official museum interprets the art, natural history and cultural wealth of the region perfectly. In 1877, this museum was declared a Cultural Institution. It boasts an impressively sized fossil collection including the Florisbad Skull, believed to be approximately 35’000 years old.

5 IDEAL HAIR TRENDS FOR 2019

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5 IDEAL HAIR TRENDS FOR 2019

New Year, New You…..

But, but….I liked the old me just fine. So, while the changing date digits shouldn’t mean you need to overhaul your whole life and stop being you, a new year is the perfect excuse for a fresh haircut we think. In 2018, we saw the hair industry embrace bold new colourful shades, baby bangs and lots of volume. But what’s in store for this year? With the help of celebrity hairstylist Asgar Saboo, here are 5 IDEAL hair trends for 2019.

CURTAIN BANGS

This iconic 70’s look inspired by Bridgit Bardot is set to make a comeback. Curtain bangs are similar to a regular fringe, but with an inverted V in the middle similar to how curtains hang. Hence the name. The centre-parted layers work with any length of hair, particularly with medium-length hairstyles.

HALO LIGHTS

You will most likely have heard of highlights and low lights, but how about halo lights? This colouring is quickly becoming the best way of creating a show-stopping blonde look. Colour is applied through the top layers and placed around the halo section of the head, framing the hair and your face precisely. We’re sure you’ll be seeing plenty of this look in 2019.

WET LOOK

This is a very high fashion look which, although may appear easy to recreate, takes a lot of styling. It’s all in the detail, or you’ll just look like you’ve stepped out of the shower and not bothered to properly dry yourself.To recreate this deliberately rough look, start with damp hair and use a styling gel on your roots, brushing through. Finish with a glossing spray.

HIGH PONYTAIL

Inspired by the likes of Ariana Grande, Bella Hadid and Kim Kardashian, a very high slick ponytail is set to be as high in visibility as it is in structure throughout 2019. The key to recreating this look is to blowdry your hair in the direction you want the base of the ponytail to be. Then, tie the top section of your hair and smooth back. Once you’ve done this, add the rest of your hair. You can use hairspray and a toothbrush to make it extra sleek, if that’s what you’re after.

ACCESSORIES

In 2018 we saw hair accessories ruling the runway and royalty (as glamourised by Kate Middleton) and this year, the trend is not set to die down. From head scarves to pins, hair accessories are going to be big news in 2019. The aforementioned Ariana has even started off the year wearing earrings in her hair. A step too far? Perhaps. Will everyone be doing it soon? Quite possibly.

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO COLLECTING FOOTBALL PROGRAMMES

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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO COLLECTING FOOTBALL PROGRAMMES

The wet Tuesday night at Grimsby. The office colleague with Monday morning delusions of grandeur after a victory on Saturday. The Sundays wasted watching nil alls which would’ve been better spent doing, well, anything. Lost Wednesday nights longing for European football and Thursday nights resenting the Europa league. Fridays thrown away to worry about the next day’s kick off. Being a passionate football fan is a seven days a week commitment, that’s for sure. And we wouldn’t have it any other way, right?

But this love which so often goes unrequited, it turns out, could get you something back in the form of buying and selling merchandise, specifically football programmes. So, we’ve teamed up with avid football fanatics, Where The Trade Buys, outdoor signage providers, to give you the IDEAL guide to collecting football programmes.

MONEY TO BE MADE

Rainy night in Grimsby? Try sunny two weeks in Miami. There are many examples of rare football programmes being sold to collectors for a lot of cash. In 2012, a family from Ipswich managed to make around £46,000 by auctioning off a set of football programmes they stumbled across in their house, which goes to show how easy it is to not realise the treasure you have gathering dust in your attic.

Fairly recently, Sotheby’s New Bond Street auctioned off the oldest-known programme from a FA Cup final — Old Etonians vs Blackburn Rovers in 1882 — for £30,000, while a single-sheet programme from the 1909 FA Cup final between Manchester United and Bristol City went for £23,500 in 2012.

SO WHAT ARE COLLECTORS LOOKING FOR?

For fans, football programmes clearly play a large part in the match day experience, or at least used to. Now, they’re largely for nostalgia’s sake. But how collectable are they and which should you search for if you want to bag a truly special edition?

The first Wembley final programme from 1923 is a great example of an important collectable item. It details the match between Bolton and West Ham United and is worth around £1,000. Alternatively, there’s the programme from the one and only time a non-English club lifted the FA Cup — Cardiff City vs Arsenal in 1927 — which ended with a score of 1-0 and has a value of about £2,500.

WHEN IT CAME HOME

The 1966 England vs West Germany programme is potentially one of the most highly prized programmes in sport. But be warned; there were three reprints of the original, so tracking down a bona fide version is tough. If you want to be sure you’re buying an original, check the weight and colouring — the reprints are more lightweight, while the front cover of the original is a deep, royal blue. Different paper types are also used for the team pages in the original, but not in the reprinted versions.

THE MUNICH AIR DISASTER

Another one that programme collectors look out for is the edition from the game that was cancelled following the 1958 Munich air disaster (Manchester United vs Wolverhampton Wanderers), which can go at auction for around £10,000. Equally like to fetch large sums is the programme for the first match following the tragedy — the 19th of February 1958’s game between Manchester United and Sheffield Wednesday. In this programme, the club showed respect to those involved in the disaster by leaving the team page blank.

WHAT BUYERS SHOULD LOOK OUT FOR

  • Age – anything over 50 years old is most collectable.
  • Availability — if there are many available and they’re easy to buy then, of course, this will bring the value down. As a rule, the rarer, the better.
  • Demand — programmes with an iconic footballer on the cover or detailing a famous match are the most prized and valuable.
  • Wear and tear — creases, missing staples and water damage all harm the programme’s price, so ask for a photo before you pay.

ADDING MORE VALUE

Any programme from an FA Cup final match holds value, as does any booklet that was perhaps the first or final edition of a player’s/manager’s career (i.e. the last game David Beckham played for Manchester United).

Another thing to highlight is that certain teams typically hold greater monetary value than others when it comes to programme collecting. So although programmes from your team’s past will be more personally valuable to you, it’s advisable to put allegiances aside if you’re in the program game to make some money. Sides such as Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs, West Ham and Arsenal are all highly sought after and are worth keeping an eye out for if you want a particularly valuable item. The Football Programme Centre is also a good source of advice if you’re keen on becoming a serious collector.

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO THE HARBIN ICE AND SNOW FESTIVAL

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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO THE HARBIN ICE AND SNOW FESTIVAL

One of the most historically significant, culturally unique and breathtakingly beautiful countries on the planet, you shouldn’t need much convincing about the merits of China as a life-changing holiday destination. With mega, mega cities of modernity and thrust juxtaposed with ancient ruins and religious areas that have stood for centuries, the most populous country in the world presents one of the most enriching and fulfilling travel opportunities possible. But yet, it remains largely unvisited by curious ‘Western’ tourists…

…Indeed, away from the mainstream, there’s plenty of underrated or overlooked events and opportunities in China well worth exploring. While stepping off the beaten track will show you the endless, serene countryside and greenery rarely associated with the country, there are also cultural events that aren’t nearly as well known as they should be. One such event is the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. Here is our IDEAL guide.

SCALE & SPECTACLE

The largest festival of its kind in the world, the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival takes place over a month, running from the start of January for just over 4 weeks. In short, it’s a long, comprehensive celebration of the colder things in life. Spread across two large exhibition areas – Sun Island and the Ice and Snow World – the festival dominates the Chinese city of Harbin, with around 18 million visitors on average flooding both sites over the course of the event. Over 50-years old now, having been founded in 1963, the festival has gone from strength to strength, now turning over billions in revenue.

AN INTERNATIONAL AFFAIR

Originally just a Chinese festival, it has since greatly expanded its appeal, with participants and visitors flocking to the arena from across the world, with snow and ice sculpture enthusiasts and artists considering this mecca within their field. Climate conditions are ideal, thanks to its position in the north of the country, with winter winds from Siberia providing the necessary chill to prevent any melting-based mishaps.

A PLACE IN THE SUN

Sun Island is a recreational area that is located on the opposite side of the Songhua River, and is home to the large range of giant snow sculptures that are on show at the festival. There are also full scale buildings erected from ice in the Ice and Snow World, with the structures illuminated at night, having had the raw materials collected from the frozen-over river. These are generally the most popular and spectacular pieces situated within the festival, so if you want some truly unique Instagram content, this could, no should, be the place for you.

SO, HOW DO I ATTEND?

If you’d like to visit the festival without missing out on the wonder of Beijing, Shanghai and the terracotta warriors, Exodus operate a China tour that will cover all of your bases. Taking the worry of meticulous, sometimes maddening organisation out of your hands, you’ll be able to take in a good chunk of this huge country all as part of the same package. In a country at times impenetrable, tours like this are often the best bet for a stress-free experience.

7 OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BRIGHTON

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7 OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BRIGHTON

A stroll along Brighton seafront, skimming pebbles and checking out cheesy souvenir shops, tub of pickled cockles in one hand, plastic pint of flat lager in the other. With sand between the toes and teeth, there couldn’t be a more quintessential British day out. This day of clichés should culminate in Brighton Pier, maybe on a fairground ride, maybe with a go on the teddy picker in the arcade and sleeping in a Brighton hotel. Bascially, it writes itself. But if you’re looking for a little more itinerary inspiration, we’re here to help. Together with Lookers Mercedes-Benz, who offer a variety of Mercedes finance plans, here are 7 of the best things to do in Brighton.

BRIGHTON’S PIERS & MARINA

The seaside resort stands alone as the only town in Britain to boast a Grade I-listed pier. Reason enough to visit we think. Opened in 1866, the West Pier was originally built as a promenade with an open deck and a splutter of small buildings before a central bandstand was built in 1875 and a theatre added a decade later. Unfortunately, the West Pier now stands derelict. However, the Grade II-listed Brighton Pier, built in 1899, still stands proud; a curious hybrid of modern installation inside a Victorian shell. 

At the Brighton Marina, you’ll find the nation’s largest yacht harbour, with 126 acres offering berthing for up to 1300 vessels. Activity-wise, there’s heaps to get stuck into; sailing lessons, seas fishing and diving, and if land is more your cup of tea, the marina village hosts an eight-screen cinema, large bowling complex, restaurants, cafes and bars.

BRIGHTON PRIDE

Billed as the UK’s biggest Pride festival, this celebration of the LGBTQ community, held in August, provides an atmosphere like no other. Take to the streets and soak up the carnival atmosphere with the various parades and village parties, and remember to bring your dancing shoes. Although the street parades are free, it’s advisable to buy a ticket to get the full Pride experience; getting you access to Pride Festival and donating to the community in the process. Lonely Planet describes the event as one of the best of its kind in the world. Well, it would be rude not to, right?

GET HISTORICAL

A palace in the centre of Brighton, The Royal Pavillion with its domes and minarets, looks somewhat out of place in a seaside town. And that’s its unique charm. Built in the 18th century, it’s a whimsical wonderland most definitely worth a visit.

For the historians among us, the Booth Museum and Natural History Museum are also must visits. With more than half a million specimens and natural history literature and data stemming over 300 years, this educational exhibit offers research facilities and children’s activities.  

Looking for even more on the cultural side of things? The Theatre Royal This is one of the oldest and most distinguished theatres that the country has to offer. It’s located in the city’s cultural quarter and the Grader II-listed building often plays host to some of the best theatre productions around and has done since 1807. Be sure to check what’s on during your visit and prepare to be entertained.

WANDER AROUND THE LANES

A collection of narrow, densely packed streets and thoroughfares in the centre of town, The Lanes are home to independent shops, boutiques and restaurants galore. It’s perhaps the best place in the city to experience the quirky, kooky soul of Brighton. These arteries occasionally get a little clogged though, so visit on a weekday for a more sedate stroll.

GET ACTIVE

Brighton bike tours are a great way to see all the sites the city and surrounding area boasts; a fun and informative journey led by a tour guide who will explain your every move. The groups are kept small and the route not too challenging, making this activity a great way to learn about Brighton on a sunny day.

If you prefer your feet on terra firma rather than being on two wheels, an undercliff walk is one of the most unusual and inspiring walks in the country; an approximately 4.5km walk along the bottom of the chalk cliffs of Brighton & Hove. With the route providing an opportunity for walkers and cyclists alike to take in the scenic views while enjoying the sea air, it also contains fossils of mammoths, woolly rhinos and hippos. It’s recommended that you give yourself approximately three hours to complete the route, so take this into account when mapping out your day.

ENJOY THE PUBS AND NIGHTLIFE

Whether you think of yourself as a party animal or just like to relax over a quiet drink, Brighton has a rich and varied nightlife. Many of the pubs you’ll find are serviced by local breweries, and if you’re a fan of real ales, the Quadrant at the top of North Street could be the place for you.

Elsewhere, The Lion and Lobster in the town centre is a joint with more than 500 years of history. The North Laine Pub And Brewery is another must-visit haunt; the venue brews its own beer.

As the sun goes down, the seafront is generally where it’s happening. With a host of trendy bars and clubs, you’ll be sure to get your groove on into the early hours of the morning. In The Lanes, you’ll find a wonderfully weird pub called The Mesmerist. With its 1920s-style setting, you are likely to be welcomed by circus performers, burlesque dancers, party DJs and swing musicians. So, come prepared to lose a little of your dignity. If you’re up for dancing late and loose, most of the moving and grooving late night goes down on Madeira Drive.

EAT WELL

Brighton is home to a thriving foodie scene. Fueled by a young, affluent population and the sea’s bounty a stone’s skim away, the number of great options belie the city centre’s relative small size. Check out our guide to five of the best here.

BOTANY BAY HOUSE: THE IDEAL RETREAT WHILE VISITING ONE OF ENGLAND’S BEST KEPT SECRETS

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BOTANY BAY HOUSE: THE IDEAL RETREAT WHILE VISITING ONE OF ENGLAND’S BEST KEPT SECRETS

 

When you think of England’s coast, the White Cliffs of Dover are often the first thing that springs to mind. And while Dover could stake a claim to being the country’s most famous white cliff (Richard remains resolutely dark-haired), we’re glad that Botany Bay in Thanet, Kent flies a little more under the radar. Indeed, it could be one of the UK’s best-kept secrets, the fact it’s a path less trodden meaning it’s tranquil and untouched. Bliss. The sheer white chalk cliffs are pure picturesque perfection, and worth the trip alone. If you’re making that trip, then there may be no better place to stay than Botany Bay House.

IDEA

The house is part of Mulberry Cottages, a boutique holiday lettings agency with over 600 unique, handpicked, self-catering properties across the South of England. Founded by property expert Sarah Wood in 2011, the independent agency specialises in luxury breaks away in the UK. They have a portfolio of properties which spans stately homes, converted railway carriages, coastal grand designs and ultra-modern city pads. More than half the portfolio is pet-friendly and over 250 are in Kent.

LOCATION

Botany Bay House is located on The Viking Coastal Trail, a 25 mile walking and cycle-rail around the coast of the Isle of Thanet taking in the vibrant towns of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate. For those who don’t want to walk far, the Botany Bay Hotel is a few yards away serving food and Kentish brewer Shepherd Neame ales. The town of Broadstairs is just under three miles away, and can be reached by a pleasant coastal walk or by car. Once there, a wide range of independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants can be explored. The coastal park directly opposite as perfect for dog walking or a morning jog in sunshine or rain.

STYLE AND CHARACTER

Although a modern build, Botany Bay House doesn’t want for character. The communal areas are gloriously light airy and spacious, but with plenty of homely touches to make it feel cosy in the winter. Framed illustrations of animals, shelves full of cooking books and shabby chic seaside brick-a-brack make it feel like a proper family home, however the high-tech appliances such as the electric fire in the lounge, space age toaster and kettle and of course the hot tub make it feel a luxurious place to stay.

ROOMS

The bedrooms feel more like hotel rooms than a rented home, offering a comfortable, homely feel.The combed is stacked with soft throws and decorative cushions in tasteful hues. The master bedroom is impressive with an amazing large balcony overlooking the sea providing sheltered views across to France. There’s a beautiful en-suite decorated with shimmering oil-spill seashell tiles. With three guestrooms in total, there’s another cosy double room and twin room each with their own TV.

FACILITIES

The private, suntrap garden with hot tub makes the property fantastic for even winter stays. The lovely golden sands of Botany Bay is on your doorstep and the owner provides everything you need for a fabulous day by the sea – beach chairs, beach towels, buckets and spades and a cool box. All you need to buy is the ice cream.

Welcome provisions from the owners included a bottle of English sparkling wine, Parmesan bites and dark chocolate Florentines, plus tea and coffee. There’s plenty of easy parking right at the front of the house, which faces directly out to the bay.

WHY GO

Botany Bay House ticks all the boxes for the most fabulous seaside holiday home. Sea views across to France, contemporary open plan layout with conservatory kitchen and dining area, three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large decked garden with hot tub complete the idyllic setup. Only a couple of hours drive from London, Botany Bay house is the seaside holiday home of dreams. Plus its also dog-friendly!

For more info visit: www.mulberrycottages.com

Priced at: £563 – 3 nights / £750 – 7 nights

5 IDEAL EAST LONDON FOOD MARKETS

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5 IDEAL EAST LONDON FOOD MARKETS

Artisan sourdough stalls. Tibetan tsampa sold off a trestle table. Tents peddling bowls of Hanoi style pho. Market saturation just doesn’t seem to be a term found in the London lexicon when it comes to food. And to its 8 million curious, hungry residents, that can only be a good thing. The appetite for new cuisines and Instagrammable bites, it seems, just can’t be sated in the capital. Doing their darndest to feed the caped, unicycle-riding masses of the city’s East are these; our 5 IDEAL East London food markets.

SPITALFIELDS, E1

Spitalfields Market has a slicker, smoother feel than some of the more cobbled together markets in the city, but that’s not its detriment at all. It’s large, covered (great for sheltering from the ever present London rain) and has a great variety of the good stuff, both in stall and fully-realised- restaurant form. Indeed, there are plenty of Spitalfields restaurants to choose from and the much renowned Galvin Brothers have two places here if parking your bottom and taking your time is more your thing. If snacking, shopping and switching cuisines does it for you, then Smokoloku, The Duck Truck and Ebby’s are particular favourites. 

DINERAMA, EC2

Dinerama, just off Shoreditch High Street, has plenty of serious foodie competition as neighbours; perhaps the best ‘hood for food in the Capital, in our humble opinion. Within a sustainably sourced stone’s throw away there’s Smoking Goat, Brat, Leroy, Som Saa, St. John’s Bread & Wine…..we’ll stop listing, our keyboard needs a wipe.

Dinerama offers a different proposition altogether; an opportunity for friends to meet after work, enjoy a few reasonably priced (London-speaking)  craft beers and have broad, fickle palate’s satisfied. The rotating cast of food purveyors keeps things interesting; on our last visit, Club Mexicana’s meat-free take on Mexican street food classics had us all cooing. Open Wednesday through to Saturday; plan accordingly.

BRICK LANE MARKET, E1

Brick Lane is world renowned for its curries and spicy food, but did you know that it also has a fantastic market, spanning several global cuisines and streets in the area? Visit on a Sunday to experience the event in full swing, with wares peddled and bargains to be unearthed. It’s chaotic, bustling and utterly charming. On any other day of the week, the famous restaurants are still open, serving their aromatic, heady offerings. Brick Lane Food Hall, open only on weekends, has 30 food stalls to appeal to all tastes.

BROADWAY MARKET, E8

Okay, so Broadway Market has more of a reputation for fashion. Indeed, it’s the place for fashionistas to be seen in East London, but that doesn’t mean the fine food here should be given short shrift. The location, alongside Regent’s Canal, makes it the perfect place to spend a Saturday, and we’d highly recommend the superb Vietnamese coffee from Ca Phe VN as you gear up for an afternoon on the harder stuff. And by harder stuff we mean the excellent chorizo scotch eggs from Eat My Pies, leading into Makatcha’s beef rendang. And then home for a long, well earned sleep.

NETIL MARKET, E8

Close to the previously mentioned Broadway Market, but less packed with peacocking young fashion students, Netil Market operates weekly on Saturdays and at a slower, more manageable pace. This is where Bao earned its cult following, and still has a stall here to this day. Reason enough, we think, to get amongst it.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO SHARPEN YOUR BRAIN

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO SHARPEN YOUR BRAIN

In these hyper-connected and over-stimulating times, we’re alloverloaded with information, and everywhere we look, someone or something is demanding our attention. It’s hard to keep up – and yet we get a dopamine thrill from it all, meaning that being switched-on is addictive. And like all addictions, it can turn toxic. With the help of Life Coach Carole Ann Rice’s 5 IDEAL ways to push back on information and sensory overload and sharpen your brain for a better life.

GIVE YOURSELF A MENTAL AUDIT

Start by taking stock of what’s overwhelming you. Maybe you have too many commitments, or perhaps you’re making other people’s needs your responsibility. Make time to see what it is that you’re doing on a daily basis, and then decide what needs to go.

TACKLE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA HABIT

Tackle your social media habit – a simple social media detox is a great way to declutter your mind, but To really sharpen your brain, focus on prioritising the things that matter. What messages and feeds are. Important and actually make you feel happy? Anything that doesn’t fit that description needs to go.

TRY MEDITATING

Meditation is a great way to empty our minds, so look up some meditation exercises to
see what works for you. It can be as simple as staring at a wall or out of a window in silence for 10 minutes in silence and just noticing your thoughts. If you need help getting started, Headspace is a great app to try.

FIND BETTER WAYS TO USE YOUR TIME

Find better ways to use your time – are your emails taking up hours? Are you checking Instagram every15 minutes and scouring shopping apps to check out the sales? Work out how much time you’re using and then fill it with something more productive and meaningful. Your brain will thank you for it.

USE THE  “3D” CONCEPT

Run down a list of what you want to achieve each day and prioritise using three categories: Do it, Dump it or Delegate it. This is a simple way to get past punishing, counter-productive perfectionism and focus on achieving the things that actually matter.

4 IDEAL WAYS TO EARN SOME EXTRA MONEY ON THE SIDE

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4 IDEAL WAYS TO EARN SOME EXTRA MONEY ON THE SIDE

You may have started January dry. Your liver might be gradually unpickling itself and your thoughts brim with extra clarity as each new day passes. Unfortunately, none of that abstinence will have fended off the dreaded ‘January Money Hangover’ (is that the best name they could come up with?). It’s the most miserly time of the year, with most young people battening down the hatches and hibernating at evenings and weekends until the relative frivolity of February creeps into view. Any extra cash then, is welcome. Every little helps and in January, every little actually feels rather large. So with the help of Liverpool Victoria,  here are their top 5 IDEAL ways to earn some extra money on the side. 

RENT YOUR WARDROBE

Not ready to sell any of your clothes for good but still want to make some cash out of your wardrobe? With apps such as Rent My Wardrobe, you can put cash in your pocket and keep your clothes. If you’ve got dresses hanging up that you only wear on occasion, why not rent them out as formalwear? You can decide the price and, you never know, it might be exactly what someone’s looking for. 

RENT OUT YOUR PARKING SPOT

If you have a driveway or parking space near a big event, near offices or close to a transport link, you could be in for some serious cash. Depending on where you live, you could earn up to £200 a month (potentially more!) just for letting somebody park in your driveway or garage. The most covetable spaces tend to be in city centres, but this is one to check out if you want to make cash in an easy way. 

BECOME AN INTERIOR STAR

Hiring out your home can be extremely lucrative as well as a fun experience. Everyone from photographers to film directors to magazine editors are looking for the perfect backdrop for whatever they’re shooting, which could just be your home. You could earn up to £500 per day for your house, as well as getting the buzz of seeing your home on TV, in a film or in a magazine. A well-known company for this kind of renting is Location Works, an agency with more than 4,000 properties on its books that can be used for location filming and photography. 

DIVE INTO CAR POOLING

Already hugely popular in countries such as France and Italy, carpooling is becoming more and more common in the UK too. This can make trips within the UK far more affordable, as opposed to flying or taking the train, and can be an extremely cost effective way of getting to work. Most rides will ask for some form of contribution, but this is often far cheaper than the alternative ways of travelling. Plus, who knows, maybe you’ll make a friend for life. 

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