While, you can wear whatever style of hat you want – and should – for the most flattering look, it’s a good idea to figure out the shape of your head. Indeed, different people have different head shapes and it goes without saying that different hats suit different people. As a general rule of thumb, the shape of your hat should balance out the shape of your face. No idea what we mean by that? Worry not. Here’s our IDEAL guide to hats and your face shape.
OVAL SHAPE
Oval face shapes can get away with just about anything. So if your face is oval, go crazy and try on all kinds of different hats. Your options are virtually endless when it comes to hat shopping (lucky you). Just make sure your hat works with your outfit and you’re good to go.
SQUARE SHAPE
If you have a strong jawline and broad forehead, then you’ve probably got a square shaped face. As such, the goal is to don hats that soften your angles so experiment with circular styles. A floppy hat with a soft brim will balance the angular width of your jaw and forehead. Also, according to a stylist in Who What Wear, baseball hats are great for square faces as they can round your head shape and soften your features. You can even get a customised cap if you can’t find one to fit. Also, slouchy and soft styles like a beret will be especially flattering for you.
HEART SHAPE
If your chin is pointed and your forehead is the widest part of your face, you have a heart-shaped face. Just like our oval friends, a heart shaped face can get away with pretty much any hat. Enough said.
ROUND SHAPE
A round face shape is characterized by a wide hairline and fullness below the cheekbones. In other words the width and length of your face is about equal and you have those round, full cheeks that Grandma’s just love to squeeze. You need a hat that will help balance out the roundness of your face and add some asymmetry to your look. Try going for something angular or a straight brimmed hat like a fedora (but not the floppy kind). Also, avoid beanies and hats with round crowns as they will just accentuate the roundness of your face.
We’ve all seen Blue Planet 2. We’ve heard the scientist’s warnings on the radio. And as a result, the national consciousness is finally shifting into greener hues – and for good reason. With the realisation that the world’s resources are finite, people are looking at ways to behave in a more mindful way towards the environment. From reducing our everyday plastic usage to choosing vehicles that are better for the environment, there are so many ways we can help and be part of the green revolution. With this in mind here are 4 IDEAL eco-friendly home habits to adopt today.
TURN OFF YOUR LIGHT BULBS
Always turn off the lights when leaving the room. New research has revealed that Brits are wasting billions on unnecessary electricity consumption. The research, conducted by contemporary homeware and furniture retailer Utility Design, as reported by Real Homes, found that £4.4 billion is being spent by Brits each year in relation to unnecessary electricity use in home lighting. Moreover, as a result, we’re creating a crazy amount of carbon dioxide emissions every day, comparable to numerous round the world flights.
For more on the shocking revelations of the study, check out our article on 4 IDEAL reasons to be mindful and switch off your lights. The statistics in the research are overwhelming and this study goes to show that it’s worth remaining vigilant around the house by switching off unused lights in order to save money and protect the environment.
DON’T WASTE WATER
Excessive water use is a drain on the bills and the globe. So first things first, get any leaks fixed. You should only use water in your home when you absolutely need to because otherwise, you are just being wasteful. Indeed, most of us don’t even realise how much water we use when flushing a toilet or filling up a glass of water at the sink. In fact, the average person in the UK uses 150 litres of water every day. Moreover, much of the water we use is heated and according the National Trust around 30 per cent of the average household gas bill is spent on heating. Therefore, by saving water you’ll be saving energy and this in turn will reduce your carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
TURN YOUR GARDENS GREEN
One of the easiest ways that people can help the environment and reduce pollution on an individual level is by turning their gardens green, or rather, greener. While you may think that your garden isn’t big enough to make a difference, you’re wrong. Whatever the size of your garden, it has the potential to help the environment. Moreover, if everyone became regular green fingers and invested more time in their backyards, then our combined efforts could have a big impact. From planting more plants to growing your own fruit and veg or even adding a pond, there are plenty of ways to help nature and turn your garden into an environmental asset.
RECYCLE & COMPOST
Don’t let your leftovers rot in a landfill site, instead create your own compost. Actively composting your waste is one of the eco-friendliest things you can do. It reduces landfill waste and therefore incineration, and subsequently carbon emissions. What’s more, composting is good for the land and encourages biodiversity as the space becomes a home for creepy crawlies and as such, the rest of the food chain. Compost heaps makes for great fertiliser as well, and it can do wonders for your lawn. And remember it’s not just fruit and veg waste you can put in your compost; nearly all of your food waste can be used to create compost as well as egg shells, egg boxes and even cardboard boxes, too.
The lights are on, but nobody’s home. Yep, we’re all guilty of leaving the lights on every now and again. However new research, conducted by contemporary homeware and furniture retailer Utility Design, as reported by House Beautiful, reveals the shocking extend of how often us Brits forget to flick off the light switch.
According to the study, Brits are wasting billions on unnecessary electricity consumption. Moreover, according to another study published in 2011 Britain is the tenth worst offender in the world when it came to carbon dioxide emissions directly caused by power consumption.
With great power comes great responsibility, so with this and the research from Utility Design in mind, here are 4 IDEAL reasons to be mindful and switch off your lights off.
YOU’RE NOT THE ONLY ONE
You may think that leaving one little light on occasionally won’t matter, but you’re not the only one doing it. We were shocked to discover that 10% (or a whopping 6.5 million) of us regularly leave our lights on when leaving a room at home. And across the UK, 21% (or an estimated 14 million) of us regularly leave the lights on when leaving the house (for example when we go to work). Oh and 4.7 million people admit that they usually leave at least one light on when going to bed. That’s a lot of lights left on unnecessarily.
YOU’RE FLUSHING MONEY AWAY IF YOU DON’T
Based on industry averages and the above figures, those of us who regulary leave our lights on when leaving a room while we’re still at home are contributing to an estimated £14,950,000 of wasted energy per day across the UK. If you leave the lights on when leaving the house, you’re contributing to an estimated £10,780,000 per day. And if you’re leaving them on while you sleep, over an average eight-hour period of shut eye this equates to £3,619,000 spent per night across the country – a very costly night light indeed.
YOUR CONTRIBUTING TO CRAZY CARBON EMISSIONS BY LEAVING YOUR LIGHTS ON
While it’s stating the obvious that leaving lights on will contribute to carbon dioxide emission levels, we were again shocked to learn by how much. Cumulatively speaking, leaving the lights on when leaving a room creates 37,440,000 kg of carbon dioxide emissions, or the equivalent of 62 flights around the world. Those of us who regularly leave the lights on at work are contributing to a whopping 26,880,000 kg of carbon dioxide emissions – comparable to 45 flights around the world. And finally, Utility Designs calculations suggest that UK’s night lights create a huge 8,985,600 kg of nightly carbon dioxide emissions – that’s the equivalent to around 15 flights around the world.
YOU’LL SAVE MONEY BT TURNING THEM OFF
By remembering to turn down the light’s not only will you cut down on the UK’s emissions, you’ll save money on bills, too. Yes, be aware that if you leave the lights on when you go to work, it could be costing you almost £200 more each year – which is enough of an incentive to do an extra check before you head out the door.
Also, if you leave the lights on during the day, from a personal finance angle, based on an average sized household, if one person was to regularly leave lights on when leaving the room, they could easily fritter away approximately £2.30 per day in this way – adding up to more than £16 per week. This adds up to over £64 a month and exceeds more than £800 over the duration of a year.
So, by helping the environment you can also help your bank balance; socially conscious or selfish, everybody wins.
A new series looking at the best dining options within walking distance (1.5 miles) of city landmarks worldwide. Here we offer our 5 IDEAL restaurants close to the Bodleian Library, Oxford.
The Bodleian Library, in Oxford, is one of the world’s oldest and most iconic, housing over 12 million items and supplying the knowledge and inspiration which gave us the internet, the Hobbit and the unification of quantum theory and general relativity. It’s an absolute monument to intelligence, rigour and discipline, and just so happens to be bang in the centre of Oxford, with arms open to all, making it an easy focus of a day’s sightseeing in the city of dreaming spires.
We’re just thankful that the university’s great alumni weren’t distracted by the myriad great food options close by, or maybe Newton’s well documented search for a proper phat Thai may have taken priority over mooching under that tree. We’ll never know….
Anyway, here are 5 IDEAL restaurants close to the Bodleian Library.
Quod (0.1 mile)
You’d be forgiven for entering Quod, seeing tables of proud parents and reluctant scholarly offspring, and making assumptions. Assumptions that the food will be the identikit bistro kind found in establishments of this nature in every student town in the country. Assumptions that prices will match. You’d be wrong though. Quod is an unassumingly classy affair, unmissable on the High Street, but quite private and intimate within. The weekday set lunch menu, where you can get two courses for just shy of £17, is a snip.
Address: 92-94 High St, Oxford OX1 4BJ
Website: www.quod.co.uk
Kazbar (0.6 miles)
Located at the mouth of Cowley Road, where the vibe of the city changes from spires and whimsy to something a little more gritty (we much prefer Cowley, if you’re asking), is Kasbar. Part cocktail part meze bar, this is a cool place, whether you’re drinking or eating, make no mistake. Kasbar has some serious style and personality, with lowlit lighting and Moroccan decor setting a scene which you can sink into for the whole evening. The merguez sausage is superb, as is the babaganoush. Stay for the sangria.
It’s not often we prefer lunch to dinner, but Gee’s demands natural light to fully appreciate its majesty. Set in an iconic Victorian greenhouse, the restaurant is stunning architecturally and the food’s ain’t half bad either, managing to be both light and gutsy, a tricky balancing act pulled off with aplomb. Mediterranean is the watchword here, although loosely, with an ingredient led menu elevated by a lightness of touch in the kitchen. The pizzetta are perennially popular, and we always stick around for a freshly cut Cuban, post dessert (because, frankly, why not?)
Address: 61 Banbury Rd, Oxford OX2 6PE
Website: www.gees-restaurant.co.uk
Magdalen Arms (1.2 miles)
We are creatures of habit, seeking comfort in familiarity during these dark, uncertain times. So as regulars of the Canton Arms and Anchor & Hope in London, it’s the Magdalen Arms, run by the same group, that we so often settle in to when in Oxford. Sad, we know, but not without good reason. A great selection of ales; a warm atmosphere which still has ‘old school pub’ at its heart; and a consistency of food which keeps so many, so loyal. Go with friends and all out, with a sharing meat ‘for 4 or 5’, which changes with the seasons but remains resolutely ambrosial.
The name doesn’t exactly fill the increasingly more discerning Thai food fan with confidence; a knowing juxtaposition of ‘authentic’ Thai food (see also London’s Farang) finding its home in neighbourhood, suburban Britain. The food though, pulls in the punters with feverish regularity. Be sure to book – this baby gets busy – and order pretty much everything; the menu is concise and designed for sharing.
The two main things that pop in mind when someone mentions the word “Liverpool” are the Beatles and Liverpool FC. However, while these two attractions are well worth visiting, this beautiful city is buzzing with an abundance of other attractive gems that need to be discovered. Whether you’re a regular looking for a few new hidden treasures, or you’re a first timer looking to experience the very essence and energy of the famous city, you’re bound to find something that piques your interest. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL activities you can’t miss out on while in Liverpool, click on this link to see more: www.groupon.co.uk
FERRY RIDE ALONG THE MERSEY
Go on an enjoyable two-hour cruise along the River Mersey aboard the Mersey Ferries. This once in a lifetime opportunity offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline, boasting a wealth of medieval and current architectural trends. There are more spectacular sights to see that make for a cozy evening to spend with loved ones.
A VISIT TO ANFIELD
The historic home stadium of the great English Premier League side, Liverpool FC gives you a taste of the rich Mersey culture. A tour of the stadium introduces you to the numerous renowned sports personalities that have set foot on the stadium. With a history spanning as early as 1884, you will marvel at artifacts held by the club museum, feel majestic as you walk through the tunnel to the pitch and get an up-close and personal experience of the famous pitch itself.
IMMERSE YOURSELF INTO THE BEATLES STORY
The city of Liverpool happens to be the hometown of the famous band that left its mark on the music world stage. The Fab Four are highly revered in the town and you can get to know more about them with a sightseeing and walking tour. The Beatles Story takes you through the genesis of the musical successes enjoyed by the local lads and gives you tidbits and interesting facts about the band members.
WANDER THE STREETS
Liverpool is one of the best places in the world for architecture and is a city that straddles the old and new, with a thriving cultural vibe playing out against the backdrop of old industrial and historic buildings. And if you want to see different aspects of the city, and move to the natural beat of it, there’s no better way to do this than walking. From its world famous docks to civic monuments, there’s plenty of structures to see whilst wandering around the streets of Liverpool, with some dating as far back as 1500. Also, make a point to stroll through Albert Dock, the heart of Liverpool’s historic waterfront. It’s home to many of the city’s best museums and galleries.
GO TO SEFTON PARK
This grandiose park sitting a 235-acre piece of land provides visitors with a slew of amazing areas to explore. From scenic views of the Victorian Palm House to beautiful waterfalls and complex caves that make for an adventurous outdoors, there is enough https://www.groupon.co.uk/vouchers/liverpool/things-to-do that will keep you busy all day.
A long weekend in picture-perfect Prague is one of life’s great pleasures. Reasonable, accessible and easily walkable, the Czech capital really is the IDEAL place for an impromptu, no-fuss getaway. It’s also a city of great dichotomy – a true something for everyone experience, where you can still get a taste of medieval Europe, the bohemian and the hipster, or scratch the surface on something altogether more salubrious. Whatever your jam may be, this city is here for you. So, here are 8 IDEAL things to do in Prague.
WALK OVER CHARLES BRIDGE
Look left, look right; the choice is yours. Whichever vantage point you choose, Prague’s Charles Bridge guarantees a breathtaking perspective of the city’s stunning setting. And if you don’t wish to cast your eyes that far, the structure has plenty to look at in the short distance too, with statues, pillars and carvings all of historical intrigue and significance. It can get seriously busy at peak times though, so go for a less sociable hour, either early morning or late at night. Perfect for catching the worm or appreciating the city lit up at night.
DRINK COFFEE AT CAFE LOUVRE
Yes, this is an extremely touristy thing to do, but when in Prague, right? Cafe culture has always been a thing in Prague and there is no more revered institution to while away the caffeine-soaked hours than the Cafe Louvre. Here none other than Albert Einstein did some serious thinking during his stay in Prague in 1911-1912.
LOOK UP
In Prague, art is absolutely everywhere and half the time, all you have to do is look up. There are many wonderful, weird sculptures and installations positioned up high and out of sight to those less curious, but those with an inquisitive streak are richly rewarded. Take the below snap of a woman hanging from an umbrella (there is also one of a man) near the coffee shop Boulangerie Patisserie.
This piece of art is called “Slight Uncertainty” by the artist Michal Trpak, and is said to represent feelings during the depression. Another peice by David Černý called “Man Hanging Out” is perhaps the most famous; often mistaken for a real suicide attempt, it depicts the psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud hanging by a hand. Go check it out, we won’t spoil the surprises further.
ENJOY THE NIGHTLIFE
Prague has a thriving, eclectic nightlife scene. With watering holes and halls on every street, and bottles of Pilsners costing about the same as a water, having a party night in Prague is certainly cheap and easy. However, be warned, the city is often full of stag tours. Avoid places like Wenceslas Square and instead check out Prague’s thriving cocktail scene where you can drink the good ‘green fairy stuff’ and try local liqour like slivovice (plum brandy) or hruskovice (pear brandy).
EXPERIENCE A CZECH BEER HALL
Many consider beer to be one of the Czechs greatest contributions to the world. And rightly so. It has after all given us Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen and Budweiser Budvar to name but a few. And as a result, Prague has a thriving beer and bar scene. A visit to a classic and convivial Czech beer hall, then, is a must on any itinerary.
Indeed, beer drinking is akin to a national sport here and your trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the many cavernous halls serving beer by the barrel alongside plates of old Bohemian specialties on long wooden communal tables to the sound of the obligatory accordion player. Just remember to pack the paracetamol!
TRY LOCAL DELICACIES
When in Prague you must Czech out the cuisine (sorry, we had to). Prague has many wonderful dishes to offer up to the culinarily curious. One such delicacy is head cheese, known to Czechs as tlačenka. No it’s not cheese, it’s brawn (traditionally pigs head) and goes fantastically with beer. Or wine, or water. Whatever floats your fancy.
In the Czech Republic goulash is king but another warming dish you’ve got to taste is Svíčková. This iconic dish is made up of beef in a creamy sauce accompanied by knedlíky (bread dumplings) and a cranberry sauce. Kulajda, a creamy potato soup with mushrooms, dill, vinegar and a poached egg floating on top is another great dish in the capital.
TAKE IN THE VIEWS
Perhaps our favourite point of scenic appreciation can be taken in from the top of Prague castle. Especially in winter when the rooftops are covered in snow, it looks like a city straight out of a fairy tale book. For another great viewpoint, take the Funicular Railway to the top of Petrin Hill for a panoramic scene of Prague, including the castle; you can even go to the top of the Observation Tower for an even higher view of the city. Another view worth seeing is at the top of the Old Town Bridge Tower; climb the 138 steps for picture perfect views of Charles Bridge and the Vltava River.
GO TO THE OPERA
The Prague State Opera is famous for its stunning theatrical performances, and best of all, the tickets are ridiculously cheap, usually going for under $10. That’s a fraction of the price of most cities and as spectacular a performance as you’ll find anywhere. A word of warning; never buy tickets for classical music performances on the street or from a tout. Always buy from registered, licensed traders or risk disappointment when turned away from the door.
A new series looking at the best dining options within walking distance (2 miles) of city landmarks worldwide, we offer our 5 IDEAL restaurants close to the Brooklyn Bridge (Brooklyn side), New York.
No trip to the Big Apple is complete without taking a bite out of the Brooklyn Bridge. Now more than 125 years old, it carries at least 150,000 vehicles and pedestrians daily between Manhattan and Brooklyn, New York’s two most famous districts. It’s one of the city’s highlights, giving you amazing views of Manhattan and the East River. Only from here can you really appreciate the scale, the sheer enormity of the New York skyline. It’s quite the feat of engineering too, with cables and columns providing strength and majesty to pedestrians and transport alike. And best of all, it’s free. Were you to be taking in the walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn, and alighting where Tillary Street meets Adams street, you’ll have worked up a hunger. So, here are our 5 IDEAL restaurants close to the Brooklyn exit of the Bridge.
Noodle Pudding (0.4 miles)
With New York being such a vast city, finding restaurants walkable from the bridge was a tall ask. That’s not to say there’s loads of amazing food in New York, it’s just people don’t walk all that much. We think the area is so fortunate then to have such a little gem as Noodle Pudding, just 400 metres from the bridge’s exit. It has a true neighbourhood Italian feel, complete with Old Blue Eyes on repeat on the stereo, and Italian-American food which historically this part of New York is has such an affinity with.
Address: 38 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
The River Café (0.7 miles)
Michelin-starred The River Café (not to be confused with London’s wonderful restaurant of the same name) sits on the banks of the river and offers spectacular views and food to match. It’s somewhat of an institution, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, to quiet, understated applause so suited to the sophisticated style of cooking here. The menu is extensive, with their fresh fish dishes the best option in our book. It has to be one of the most romantic spots in the city, perfect for a date or special celebration.
In a city in love with Japanese food, Ganso Ramen is one of the stand out purveyors of the hearty noodle and broth wonder that is ramen. Everything is done with care and thoughtfulness, as any Japanese establishment of any virtue should. The menu straddles tradition and the more experimental, with miso ramen, an all-time classic, rubbing shoulders with a Brooklyn-inspired short-rib offering. They have held a Bib Gourmand, Michelin’s little brother which marks excellence and value, for four years, and we can see why. Bowls all come in at under $15 – just incredible for a place of this repute.
Address: 25 Bond St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
Website: gansonyc.com
Pok Pok, NY (1.1 miles) *sadly, as of Summer 2020, Pok Pok NY is closed*
If we could eat at Andy Ricker’s homage to the food of Northern Thailand everyday we would. The food is a million miles away from the fluorescent greens and pink curries served in many a provincial Thai restaurant in England. It’s bold, assertive and spicy yet thoughtfully composed – not surprising from a chef so in love with the food of Thailand he goes back there every year to ‘research’ new dishes. The Gaeng Hung Leh here is as near we’ve come to a religious experience in a long while. Heaven.
Time for something closer to home to close our list, the marvellous, moreish Buttermilk Channel. It’s a homage to the American comfort-food classics, a roll call of what you crave the morning after the night before, but done with a little extra flair and panache. Arteries will be clogged and calories accumulated but who cares? You could walk it off, back over the bridge and into Manhattan.
Nostalgia is a powerful thing and at the moment old is the new new. Indeed, nostalgia-centric products are capturing the hearts of millennials across the globe and vintage-inspired items are more popular than ever. As such, there are some vintage items that are making their way into homes again. With this in mind, together with Acorn Stairlifts, we take a look at 5 IDEAL retro items that are making a comeback.
THE TURNTABLE
Vinyl records were at the peak of their popularity between the 1950s and the 1990s. After this, they were replaced by the Compact Disc, before mp3 players and then digital downloads. However, their popularity returned as people dug out their record collection and bought new music in the classic format too. In 2016, vinyl sales reached grew 53% compared to the previous year. In April of the same year, Fortune reported that vinyl record sales were at a 28-year high.
Many people say that they prefer the sound quality that a vinyl produces — a rich sound that digital music can’t replicate. Perhaps for this reason, in 2017, HMV announced that the turntable would be the top-selling product in its technology department. Companies are catering for different markets too as prices range from a reasonable £25 to £20,000 for those who want top-of-the-range technology.
CHAISE LONGUE
The origins of the chaise longue date back to the day beds that were around in ancient Egypt and Greece. In the 18th century, it was known as the ‘fainting’ couch so that women who couldn’t bend at the waist because of their corsets could instead fall gently in reclining position. According to interior designers and furniture retailers, the style is now making a comeback.
The chaise longue (literally translated to ‘long chair’ in English) is recognisable as a sofa that takes the shape of a chair but is long enough to support the legs. These days, it makes a nice addition to a conservatory or orangery and provides a relaxing spot to look out onto the garden. Some are big enough for two, and can act as a sofa for couples and families.
SODASTREAM
The SodaStream peaked at popularity during the 1970s and 80s with the tagline ‘get busy with the fizzy’. The machine allows people to make their own carbonated drinks at home, through mixing a flavoured syrup with the soda. Business halted in 1996 and the product was reintroduced in 2010 to a newer market.
Appealing to prosecco lovers of recent years, SodaStream Germany launched a sparkling gold ‘alcoholic concentrate’ that allows users to make their own bottles of prosecco from home. The machine has evolved over the years too, into a slimline machine that is available in a range of colours.
INSTANT CAMERAS
After instant film begun in 1940, popularity for instant cameras soared. People loved the novelty of a tangible picture minutes after taking it, without having to visit a store to get them printed — the invention transformed the photography market!
However, the production of these cameras began to fall as digital cameras took over and then smartphones became the primary tool for taking photos. With digitalised photos becoming the norm, the instant camera brings back the idea of keepsakes and with only one chance to take the photo, eliminates the obsession with capturing the perfect shot. The comeback of the instant camera has been popular, and there are many accessories that can now be purchased to support the product. For example, coloured camera cases are on sale and filters are available to take different shots.
JUKEBOX
Jukeboxes were once seen in many pubs across Europe — giving customers the chance to choose the song they wanted on out of the thousands available. However, as digital downloads took over and video platforms such as YouTube gave customers access to millions of songs, they experienced a decline.
But, it seems as though jukeboxes are making a comeback. Chris Black, managing director of Sound Leisure (one of the last two makers of hand-built jukeboxes in the world), said that his sales doubled from 2012 to 2016 and he is witnessing a rise in popularity. He says that it’s down to the distinctive sound of a juke box, its ‘more bass-y and more boom’ and this is what is driving the sales. Some jukeboxes can contain up to 2,000 tracks and make a nice household item for music lovers.
LST or low surface temperature radiators have exploded in popularity, and they’re incredibly safe in a number of ways. An LST or Low Surface Temperature radiator works very differently than traditional radiators, but the benefits are so great that they’re mandatory in many new construction projects. And these benefits are so important that LST radiators are becoming the norm in new buildings and retrofits. But what are LST radiators, and why are they so important? We’ll also discuss how they’re different from conventional radiators.
WHAT ARE LST RADIATORS?
Traditional radiators work through both radiation and convection. LST radiators only work through convection. An LST radiator is designed to have a low surface temperature, though it is still used to heat up a room. It brings in air from the bottom of the radiator, moves it past the heating elements full of hot water, and blows the warm air out the top of the radiator. The casings are separate from the copper tube containing the hot water.
LST radiators are now mandatory in a number of buildings and situations, though their benefits over other forms of heating are causing their widespread adoption. Visit Radiator Outlet to learn more about them.
WHY ARE LST RADIATORS SO IMPORTANT?
A low surface temperature radiator is safer than the conventional model. If someone touches it or leans against a traditional radiator, they could be burned in moments. The LST radiator eliminates this safety hazard. You can’t even be burned by the hot air coming out of the top of the radiator. LST radiators are ideal for public spaces and facilities with children and vulnerable adults; due to their safe design, LST radiators may be mandated over the traditional alternative.
The safety factor is not to be underestimated. In 2010, nearly two thousand people were injured in public buildings by a radiator or section of hot pipe. About 1,400 of these accidents occurred in places of education like schools. All of these cases warranted a hospital visit, and that means many more were burned without ending up a severe enough case to be documented in the Leisure Accident Surveillance System. Nor does this include the burns that took place in private homes.
Anyone who has a duty of care toward their charges, whether you’re talking about a nursing home or daycare center, has an obligation to minimize such risks. In fact, government rules now require such buildings to install radiators that do not have a surface temperature over 43°C. This makes LST radiators important for facilities like schools and nursing homes because they’re legally mandatory. In comparison, traditional radiators can get twice as hot, often exceeding 75°C.
The design of LST radiators allows you to enclose the base grill, keeping children away from both the radiator and all hot pipework. It is the only totally safe option for childcare facilities. They can be bought with locks, too, to keep the inquisitive out of the system. Their rounded edges and corners make them safe for anyone who may fall against them, as well.
For these reasons, those building new public facilities may be legally required to install LST radiators. If your facility meets the NHS Guidance for ‘Safe Hot Water and surface temperature’, you have to rely on LST radiators. While schools and childcare facilities have already been mentioned, this government regulation includes sheltered housing, nursing homes, and doctor’s offices. And if you’re refurbishing a public facility, medical building or childcare facility, you’re probably legally required to replace old radiators with LST radiators. If the elderly, young or vulnerable live there or visit there, you’re now required to put in Low Surface Temperature radiators.
There’s another reason you have to have a low surface temperature radiator, and that’s the fact that you must some sort of heat source in these facilities. For example, heating regulations state that school classrooms must be at least 18°C. If it isn’t, students and staff can be removed from the space until it is warm enough. If the existing radiators in the building aren’t quite good enough, consider adding LST radiators to the colder areas to ensure everyone is warm enough.
HOW ENERGY EFFICIENT ARE LST RADIATORS?
LST radiators are, on average, as efficient as traditional radiators, if not better. One of the benefits of LST radiators is that they can quickly react to temperature changes since they have a fraction of the mass of conventional radiators.
Traditional radiators have a high water volume and high mass, so it is difficult for them to respond to temperature changes. This can result in wasted energy as it overheats a room. In contrast, an LST radiator can reach the right temperature in a matter of minutes. They’re better able to adapt to changing outdoor temperatures and solar heating, keeping everyone comfortable without wasting energy trying to maintain a high temperature in the room. The low mass of water required for LST radiators may reduce the load your radiators put on your boilers. On a large enough scale, you’ll significantly reduce heating and hot water costs.
The outer cover of the LST radiator hardly affects its heat output while providing a safe-to-touch surface. In fact, many LST radiators have an internal cover that reflects heat that may be lost back into the room, maximizing the heat that is put out into the living space.
LST radiators are more efficient than the alternatives to traditional radiators. Electric radiant panels and underfloor heating are slow to reach the desired temperature. In the case of underfloor heating, it can take hours to get warm enough. That wastes a lot of energy. In comparison, LST radiators will warm up in minutes and heat up the entire room quickly after the temperature in the room falls below a set point. Once things are warm enough, it turns off immediately and doesn’t continue to overheat the corner it sits in.
While LST radiators are an excellent choice for maintaining a safe and comfortable environment, for those looking to upgrade their heating systems without extensive remodelling, retrofit floor heating panels can be an alternative solution. These panels can be installed with minimal disruption, complementing the efficiency and safety of LST radiators in a modern heating system design.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OF LST RADIATORS
There are reasons aside from safety and energy efficiency that explain why people are installing LST radiators. For example, they provide greater flexibility. They can look like a white plastic square or be hidden behind a wood panel. You can find LST radiators that already come with a variety of colors and high-quality finishes. You have far more aesthetic choices with an LST radiator, at least in terms of the outer casing of the radiator. The fact that the exterior won’t create a safety hazard means you can safely put it close to heat-sensitive electronics or the main walkway of the home. After all, no one is severely burned if they brush up against it. The entire cover ensures that no surface is over 43°C.
The safety features increase the number of places you can put the LST radiators, as well. You can put them at knee level without worrying about someone hitting a sharp corner or hot surface. If you want it at floor level, that’s perfectly fine. Don’t be afraid to put it in the hallway or entryway to your home – it will make your home that much warmer and inviting.
The fact that these radiators can have almost any profile means they can be safely located alongside stair railings and under seats.
The relatively high energy efficiency and steady heat output makes maintaining a constant interior temperature and even heating profile far simpler when you use LST radiators.
Because LST radiators are designed for safe use around the home by the elderly and the vulnerable, as well as children, it is rather straightforward to find models with easy to grip heating controls that can be used by the elderly and disabled. You’ll enjoy these same benefits as you age and you won’t have to worry about the safety of your pets around these radiators, either.
Since LST radiators are generally designed for use in hospitals and schools, they’re typically made to withstand damage. They can handle being hit by equipment, trolleys, and toys. They’ll stand up to use and abuse better than other models. There’s a good chance they’ll last much longer than the alternatives.
A side benefit of being child-proof is that they’re vandal-resistant. Most LST radiators have security fittings that prevent unauthorized access to the emitter.
Because low surface temperature radiators are made for care homes, medical facilities and other places hosting vulnerable populations, you can find models with anti-bacterial paint. This improves the overall safety of the device and protects the health of the users, whether it is installed in a nursing home or private home. There are coatings proven to reduce bacteria by up to 99.9% before you’ve done anything else like cleaning the radiator cover.
Dusting the exterior of the radiator is certainly easier than trying to clean a traditional radiator. If something does happen to the exterior casing, their security fittings make them quick and easy to install when replaced. The interior of the average low surface temperature radiator happens to be easy to clean, as well. A single person can open the covers and do regular deep cleaning and maintenance before putting it back. This is an invaluable feature when high levels of hygiene are mandatory.
The easy to use controls make them suitable for use in a mother-in-law suite or child’s bedroom. Anyone can safely use them in any part of your home.
So you’ve decided to pop the question? Or you want a whirlwind week of romance which you hope will prompt your partner to spontaneously take to one knee? Either way, there are not many places more romantic than Tuscany. The rolling hills, the architecture, the art, the food, the wine…….just thinking about it has us sending inappropriate messages of proposal to exes we haven’t spoken to since way back when. So, with all that romanticising out the way, we’ve teamed up with Oliver’s Travels to bring you our 5 reasons why Tuscany is the IDEAL destination to propose.
The Aesthetics of Florence
Look up love in the dictionary and a picture of Florence appears. The city is a synonym for romance and it’s easy to see why. Renaissance art and architecture stands proud but not boastful; it truly is elegance in visual form. The humanist art which so permeates all aesthetics of this part of Italy celebrates the female form (see Boticelli’s The Birth of Venus) in reverent fashion….could there be a better inspiration – a more apt framing – for a marriage proposal?
The Cathedrals and Churches
The organ song. The aisle. The altar. Temples of religion are full of wedding imagery, and Florence’s cathedral, The Duomo, is one of the most celebrated in the world. One would have to own a heart made of marbled stone not to feel romantic following a stroll around its iconic interior. Don’t stop at Florence though, when in search of cathedrals and churches – there are hundreds across the region. Probably of most note, Pisa’s Cathedral Complex is still pretty awe-inspiring, regardless of the throngs of tourists keen to capture that photograph.
The Seclusion
Outside of Tuscany’s capital is blissful, seemingly never-ending countryside. The rolling hills of lush green are awe-inspiring and epic, and most important for a holiday with romance in mind; secluded, to say the least. The Casentino is a designated national park, where hiking options abound, minus the usually ubiquitous tourists in a place of such international repute.
The Wining and Dining
Talking of sloping hills and lush countryside, no trip to Tuscany would be complete without a visit to Chianti. Let the romance flow in tandem with the wine on a vineyard tour, taking in tasting and the fresh, clean air in a picture perfect setting. The food of Tuscany also lends itself superbly to love. Cooking here is characterised by light ingredients and respectful cooking, meaning you’ll be light on your feet (or knee) following a gorgeous meal here. We might recommend staying off the beans though, so enjoyed in this part of the world, if you don’t want the big moment to be interrupted by some unexpected wind.
The Beaches
Although we immediately think of Flora when thinking of Tuscany, the region is also home to some delectable beaches. The white, gentle sand will be the perfect cushion for your knee, and the beach a perfect bed for post-proposal celebrations.So what are you waiting for?
The southern market town which grew into one of the most visited cities in the world -becoming a UNESCO world heritage site in the process – Marrakech is an intoxicating tangle of crossed cultures, wires and lanes, all bound together with a unique and unrelenting energy. When the abundant buzz rings a little too loudly in your ears, the chance to escape to the peaks of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains or journey by camel into the vast Sahara Desert is a getaway pretty much unrivalled anywhere in the world. This city has so much to offer families, couples, or those seeking a quieter trip, so with the help of Travel Republic.co.uk, here are 7 IDEAL things to do in Marrakech.
EAT MOROCCAN STREET FOOD
One of Marrakech’s greatest draws is its abundance of street food stalls; an aromatic, heady and highly complex cuisine served for pennies as life buzzes around you – to us, there’s nothing better. Visit the heart of the action – and the beating atrium of the city – at the medina’s central square, Jemaa el-Fnaa. Flames lick high off grills and each meal comes with a side order of theatre. Perfect.
SOAK UP SUNSET
There’s nothing quite like sitting on a rooftop as the sun sets over the medina, taking in the atmospheric sounds of the city which seem to rise in harmony with the heat. There’s no skyscrapers here, and the view over the city, of organised chaos bathed in clay-red hues, of a thousand families putting out their washing on rooftops and a thousand pots bubbling, brings an appreciation of a culture of great majesty, one which feels familiar and totally foreign in tandem.
TAKE A TRADITIONAL HAMMAN
Indulge in a traditional hamman and do as the natives do. These ancient baths have been soothing weary bones for over 2,000 years, and although the steam and high, high heat may seem counter intuitive to a city of such swelter, it’s the perfect respite from the bustle beyond its walls. Marrakesh is a busy city and sometimes it’s nice to have a little break, relax and have a massage. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy a bit of pampering – hey, these guys invented ‘the oasis of calm’, so I think we can trust them.
GO SHOPPING IN THE SOUKS
Hit the souks for all your shopping needs and be treated to spectacular local entertainment at the same time including acrobats, street dancers and snake charmers. The souks are a labyrinth of market stalls and shops selling anything and everything from local food to shoes, bags, pottery, leather, clothes and jewellery. They’re helpfully – but chaotically – set out in different sections, so if you are after a certain thing you only have to look in one area. Take a map as it’s easy to get lost, and that’s something of an understatement.
TANTALIZE THE TASTE BUDS IN THE CITY’S RESTAURANTS
Marrakech is home to many exquisite restaurants. Treat yourself at Marrakesh’s Le Grand Café de la Poste – a journey back in time to Marrakech’s old post office for a lunchtime treat. Relax on the veranda of this glorious colonial Art Deco bistro and relish the French cuisine with Mediterranean influences or hit local’s favourite special occasion destination Al Fassia.
No city is more well practiced, precise and playful in the art of conversation than Marrakech. Barter and banter, bravado and blessing; it’s all going off in the city. Strangers approach, sometimes with no other intention than to practice their English and whet their wit. Hawkers peddle their wares armed with razor sharp repartee and local cooks quote the latest British sitcoms in pitch perfect pronunciation. If conversation is your art, then Marrakech is a gallery.
VISIT THE BADII PALACE
Take some time to explore this former formal palace, which now sadly lies in ruins. The spot provides excellent views of the city and has hidden tombs for you to discover. The Badii Palace costs only 10 dirhams (just over £1), and is worth it just to get an impression of what the palace was like (and get some panoramic snaps of the city, of course).
Hanoi, Vietnam’s buzzing, boisterous, baffling capital, is fast becoming one of the world’s most visited cities. That fact doesn’t surprise; it’s a thrilling place to visit, with history and food (and coffee) unmatched almost anywhere in the world. With such an influx of tourists comes corresponding amounts of places to stay, so choosing somewhere good from afar can be tough. We’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to with our IDEAL hotel guide to Hanoi.
La Siesta
The Elegance Hotel Group have a number of amazing properties in the heart of Hanoi, all walking distance from many of the best pho stalls, traditional coffee shops and tailors for which Vietnam’s capital city is so famous. We particularly love La Siesta Diamond Hotel and Spa, which is right in the middle of the mix in the Old Quarter, on Ma May Street. It’s the ideal hotel from which to explore the city; a minute’s walk from Bia Hoi Corner, and about five from Hoan Kiem Lake. The hectic pace of Hanoi can sometimes be overwhelming, so the spa is the perfect oasis when you need an escape. Website: www.lasiestadiamondhotel.com
La Storia Ruby Hotel
Alternatively, for a super cheap option in the old town, La Storia Ruby Hotel offers simple, perfectly formed rooms and a light breakfast for as little as £30 a night, per double room. It’s a stone’s throw from a veritable feast of food options and Hang Bong, Hanoi’s famous silk street. Their staff are just lovely and the daily tours organised in-house are a great way to explore the city. Website: www.lastoriarubyhotel.com
Mövenpick Hanoi
If the noise of bikes beeping and hawkers hawking is not your idea of a laid back getaway, you might want to consider laying your hat just off centre, in Hanoi’s historic French Quarter. The pace is still frantic, the vibe electric, but the noise is less, the air more breathable and the pavements more walkable. There’s heaps of individuality to the area, with French colonial architecture and boulevards where the young, hip residents of Hanoi go to shop and be seen. This area plays host to some fine restaurants and great street food, as well as a couple of the city’s most famous museums, the Women’s Museum on Ly Thuong Kiet street and the Hoa Lo Prison. The hotel itself is classy affair; you’ll find a spacious environment here rarely offered in the Old Quarter. Rooms are tastefully furnished and breakfast is an international affair. Service is prompt and professional. Although it’s on the more expensive side, it’s still a great price relative to London and New York.
Website: www.movenpick.com
InterContinental Hanoi Westlake
For a real treat, the InterContinental hotel in the West Lake district of Hanoi is as stunning as it comes. With a view of the expansive lake, and access to the modern amenities of the district, as well as boasting the World Traveller title of ‘Vietnam’s Most Romantic Resort 2017’, this is a wonderful choice for a special occasion. The usual superb attention to detail of the Intercontinental Group is very much on display here, from the knowledgeable concierge service to the abundant, international breakfast. Magic. Website: www.hanoi.intercontinental.com
Serenity Villa Hotel
This hotel is in a great position, especially for foodies. One of the best places for pho on 10, Ly Quoc Su Street is just around the corner – this place is famous, with even the Viets making the trip into town for a bowl. If you’ve had your fill of noodles and rice, then Pizza 4Ps is on the same street; this isn’t your average Asian holiday pizza, they’ve got a huge wood-fired oven and local farmers producing their creamy, unctuous, city-famous burrata – just superb. For those on a mid-range budget, this hotel is a great choice.
Website: Serenityvillahotel.com
Hanoi Backpacker’s Hostel, Ngo Huyen
On the same street as Serenity and not to be confused with the bigger hotel of the same name on Ma May, Hanoi Backpacker’s Hostel (‘the original’) is the place to stay if you want to let your hair down, meet new people and comfort is less of a priority than a good party. This is a budget option, make no mistake, but that’s not to say it’s lacking in amenities, there’s all you need here and the location is great; just moments from the city’s St. Joseph’s Cathedral and a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake. The best pho bo in town is not far either, on Bat Dan street, and there’s a Cong Caphe serving amazing coffee, in view too. That’s breakfast, lunch and dinner sorted then.
It’s not news that Noma has placed Copenhagen on the map as one of the foodie capitals of the world. With Noma now closed for the foreseeable future, arriving and expectant food tourists may be caught short when looking to experience the city’s world famous, avant garde Nordic cuisine. Fear not though, there are so many alternatives.
Equally, Copenhagen isn’t just about Nordic cuisine. From a 3 Michelin-starred temple of gastronomy to accessible, affordable street food, there really is something for everyone.
With affordability in mind, here are our top tips for a culinary weekend away in Copenhagen.
Bror
Image via Bror’s Facebook page
Bror (the Danish word for brother) is the restaurant from two former sous chefs of Noma. Awarded Michelin’s Bib Gourmand, Bror is a more affordable option for those wishing to experience Danish ‘sense of time and place’ cooking, with inspiration and ingredients from wider Scandanavia adding extra flair. The menu is a simple choice between a 4 course and 5 course menu, with the option of additional snacks. We would highly recommend the latter, as the snacks provide real intrigue and fun, with a cod’s head and eyes, and deep fried bull’s testicles challenging even the more daring diner.
Website: http://www.restaurantbror.dk
Address: Skt Peders Strade 24A, 1453 K Copenhagen
WarPigs
Craft beer and slow cooked, barbecued meat – could there be a better match? Warpigs is about as far from Nordic fine dining as you could imagine, but it is no the worse for it. Based on traditional American barbeque joints, with a heavy metal soundtrack to match its no frills location in the popular meatpacking district, 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, and long tables reminiscent of a Bavarian beer hall, it’s impossible not to spend a raucous day (into night) here.
Address: Flæsketorvet 25, 1711 København V, Denmark
Kodbyens Fiskebar
Based in the same, gritty Vesterbro district as WarPigs, Kodbyens Fiskebar is a Copenhagen institution, famed for its super fresh, intricate yet simple 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 palatte and eye – worth a trip for one with a glass of sweet one alone.
Address: Den Hvide Kødby, Flæsketorvet 100, 1711 V København
108
108 is the younger sister of Noma and has recently been awaded its first Michelin star. This is modern Nordic gastronomy with an affordable price tag. Unlike Noma, 108 is an a la carte affair with lots of sharing options. The plates here are beautifully constructed, with a similar eye for presentation as Rene Redzepi’s ‘growing out of the plate’ style. Housed in a beautiful building next to the canal, and with plenty of natural light from huge ceiling to floor, wall to wall windows, it’s a great space to really take your time over your food – service is friendly but classy and you never feel rushed.
Website: 108.dk
Address: Strandgade 108, 1401 København K, Denmark
Copenhagen Street Food (Paper Island)
Just around the corner from 108 is Copenhagen’s must-visit indoor streetfood market. With loads of food and drink stalls spanning the globe, there is something for everyone. Make sure you enjoy the famed Danish hotdog here, topped with crispy onions and lashings of ketchup – its a contestant for one of the best hotdogs in the world. The market is open all year round. Come winter this place is the epitome of hygge – think roaring fires and candlelit tables, but in the summer the party moves outside with throngs of foodies enjoying snacks and beer in the sun.
A short walk from Norreport station you’ll find Torvehallerne market – offering both Danish and international food stalls, as well as excellent, local charcuterie and cheese, and fresh, local seafood and vegetables. A trip to Copenhagen wouldn’t be complete without sampling an open faced sandwich and Torvehallen market is our favourite place to experience this quintessential Nordic delight. If you happen to be in Copenhagen on Culture Night, which falls on 14th October every year, you’re in for a treat. This evening is all about showing off the very best of Denmark including the food. When we were there, oysters and tasters of craft beer are handed out generously (and seemingly endlessly) outside of the market – showing just how the good produce in Denmark is.
A new series looking at the best dining options within walking distance (1 mile) of city landmarks worldwide. Here we offer our 5 IDEAL restaurants close to the Eiffel Tower, Paris.
More than just about any city in the world, Paris is a city of fine food and restaurant culture. It doesn’t all have to be starched white table cloths, champagne and foie gras – there’s plenty of diversity on show and sometimes the most humble bistro results in the most satisfying experience. Indeed, there is something for everyone in France’s capital.
The Eiffel Tower is the city’s most iconic landmark and is in an area well-supported by public transport and close to the River Seine. To say that on a day trip to the tower, you’ll be spoilt for choice restaurant wise, is something of an understatement. We’ve eaten our way around the area and found our favourites and here they are, our 5 IDEAL restaurants close to the Eiffel Tower.
L’Astrance (0.5 miles)
Although Les Jules Verne would be the convenient go-to (it’s housed in the tower) if you’d like to include haute cuisine in your day out, Astrance is theplace we’d recommend for fine dining in the immediate area. It has 3 michelin stars – the ultimate marker of highest calibre cooking – and a superb wine list. We’ve included it on the list for a reason we’d like whispered, only; at 75 euros, their set lunch option is one of the cheapest (yes, we know, still not cheap) 3 star meals in the world.
A stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower – although, please not from the top; we all learnt in school physics lessons that would kill a man – and cooking of precision and craft, 20 Eiffel is a no-brainer if you’re visiting the area. The traditional Parisian set menu of a starter and a main for 24 euros is a steal, with an honest focus on great flavour above frippery.
Address: 20 Rue de Monttessuy, 75007 Paris, France
Paris is home to scores of cafes and creperies celebrating the cuisine of Britanny, which is wonderfully rich yet humble. Crépuscule does a fantastic buckwheat crepe (we’d always recommend savoury) of Breton cheese, ham and an unctuous egg yolk. This place attempts to eschew tradition with some more flamboyant flavour pairings but we suggest staying safely in the middle of the road for this one, and you’ll be rewarded handsomely. A very reasonable option with the Eiffel Tower in sight.
Still well within reach on Rue St. Dominique, Les Cocottes serves French charcuterie for sharing and individual mains in shallow, heat-proof baking dishes, all of which are fantastic. We couldn’t recommend this place highly enough; a hyper seasonal menu, unfussy yet precise cooking and wine by the carafe making it a big winner in our book.
When one has spent a few days in Paris, there is a tendency to feel a little heavy. There’s a lot of cheese, a lot of butter and a lot of protein. Something light and refreshing then, at Le Table du Vietnam. I know you may be thinking; Vietnamese food in Paris , why oh why? Well, following a period of French occupation in Vietnam, the country’s food has plenty of technique learnt from the French and lots of flourishes that shouldn’t feel unfamiliar. Think bread, pate and bone broths galore. Le Table du Vietnam is a fine purveyor of Vietnamese fare and trust us, we’ve eaten a hell of a lot.
It’s always unnerving to entertain someone for the first time, especially when that person is a new love interest. Even the most seasoned cooks have stage fright when they are preparing a meal for someone new. Indeed, when you’re cooking for another with the aim to impress them, it’s like you’re putting on a little show and the pressure can be nerve-racking. But worry not, we’re here to help with these 5 IDEAL tips for a successful first dinner date at home.
DON’T FORGET THE NIBBLES & WELCOME DRINK
Plan ahead and don’t forget some nibbles and a welcome drink to begin the evening. Think of them as the foreplay prior to the main event; equally as important and sometimes the best part. Indeed, it’s always nice to have a drink on arrival and a few nibbles on offer when your date arrives to get the juices flowing. Just keep them light so you have room for the main event.
THE WINE
A perfect glass of wine for a date is essential – and that doesn’t mean a £4.99 bottle from Tesco’s bargain bin. It means class, it cries sophistication and it positively bellows WINE SNOBBERY at the top of its tasting notes. When you select a great bottle of wine – whether that’s a full-bodied red or a light rose – it’s a marker of taste that will impress your date, even if they don’t like wine. The cultural cache society has given to wine is peerless, so make sure you get your selection right.
THE MEAL AND THE HOSTING
A two part tip, make no mistake. We’ll start with the cooking. Of course, you want your food to wow your date. That’s a given. But to be a great host, you can’t be slaving away for the duration of the meal; you’ll be seldom seen and when you are, stressed and distracted. So, the choice of dishes you serve is going to be make or break to the success of the evening.
After a fancy starter, try to keep the main course simple. Think of cooking something that can largely be prepared in advance and finished off quickly, as you don’t want to leave you date sitting alone for too long. The dish every diner will depart discussing is going to be dessert. Most people have a sweet tooth and owing to it being the last course, the final act is the one whose taste will linger and your date will remember. So, do it in style. Again, something prepared a little in advance will save stress so close to the finish line.
DON’T CROCK IT UP
You’ve gone to all the effort of cooking up a carefully considered meal and then you serve it all up on paper plates. Okay, this an extreme example, but you want to get your crockery right if you want a romantic, sophisticated feel to the evening and the food to shine as it should. The same goes for drinking vessels; if you’re going to serve good wine (see below) then you’ll want an appropriate glass to bring out the best characteristics of every last drop.
MAKE SOMETHING TOGETHER
If you’re cooking for a date it helps if you can cook of course, but if you’re hopeless in the kitchen fear not. Why not get your date involved in the cooking process? Think about making pizzas together. Not only will be great fun, getting the ingredients together and making the dough beforehand takes enough effort to prove you tried.
THE AMBIANCE
If the meal’s a disaster and the wine tastes like vinegar, your fall back plan is your ambiance. Perfect this and you’ll be able to save your date from almost any impending disaster. That means exquisite lighting, a well laid out table, a playlist more chilled than the ice cubes in your freezer, and oodles of sartorial suaveness.
