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12 QUICK AND HEARTY MEALS IDEAL FOR STUDENTS

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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12 QUICK AND HEARTY MEALS IDEAL FOR STUDENTS

Apparently the largest percentage of people who consume junk food on a daily basis are students. And who can blame them? With their demanding schedules; balancing researching and writing essay assignments, studying for end-term examinations, working side jobs and a crazy student social life, it can be difficult for them to squeeze in meals preparation.  Hence they opt for the easier option which is order take out or have frozen meals.

But did you know there are simple, healthy meals that would take even less time to prepare compared to the latter? They consist of simple ingredients that you can acquire in your grocery store. No fancy top chef kitchen appliances or tools required either.

The best part; you can easily and quickly prepare them from your minimum-sized dorm or off campus housing kitchen. And if you’re worried about the price of healthy eating, don’t – it’s actually cheaper to buy healthy food than junk food.

Indeed, a report from the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) compared the prices of 78 common food and drink products, finding that healthier options are more often than not cheaper. 

The following tips will are designed for college students who are after a little cooking inspiration for healthy, fast and easy to prepare meals…

BREAKFAST

This is the most important meal of the day. Having a healthy breakfast ensures optimal activity throughout the day and will also keep you alert in class. Here are some hearty options for your breakfast:

  1. Breakfast Nachos: Easy to prepare substitute for your pancake and oats breakfast routing. You can use veggies in lace of beef or beans; customize it to your own liking.
  2. Berry and Peanut butter overnight oats: These little pots of joy are the ideal grab-and-go breakfast to start your day the healthy way. Oats are a natural superfood, 100% wholegrain and an excellent source of fibre, protein, vitamins and antioxidants. This breakfast treat is cheap to make and can be prepared beforehand. For the berry element grab some frozen berries and keep them in your freezer, using them as and when you need.
  3. Tropical green smoothies: For a nutrition fix and exploding flavor, this tropical green smoothie is a delectable way to kick-start your day.
  4. Mexican scrambled eggs: If you are one of those people who feel it’s not breakfast until you have scrambled eggs, this is the perfect treat for you. 

MAINS

These are the meals you can really make interesting and experiment with differnt flavors, not to mention reheat wonderfully: 

  1. Vegetable Lasagna: Instead of filling your lasanga with meat, layer it with aubergines, courgettes and cherry tomatoes for a healthier alternative. Make a big batch and freeze. 
  2. Naan Pizza: Incredibly fast and easy to bake –a life saver on those busy nights you’re swarmed with assignments. Include all your favorite toppings. 
  3. Grilled cheese roll ups with tomato soup dipping sauce:  A classic pairing and a great faced-lift from the old monotonous grilled cheese. 
  4. Chickpea curry: Chickpeas are one of the cheapest most popular pulses. We’ve got a whole load of affordable and easy to cook chickpea recipes here. 

DESSERTS

With all that revising you deserve a treat. This is the perfect finish to a great meal and a treat for your sweet tooth: 

  1. Chocolate pudding: Almost instant molten chocolate pudding. Takes you about 3 minutes to prepare
  2. Chocolate mousse: Use marshmallows to achieve a velvety texture
  3. Brownies: Fudgy, gooey, chocolaty brownies, the best you are yet to taste. Plus, you only require one bowl to prepare them. The magic ingredients; oil, cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
  4. Crispy peanut butter clusters: Unique, creative and interesting, crunchy goodness in every bite.

4 IDEAL TIPS FOR A FRESH BREATHED COMMUTE

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL TIPS FOR A FRESH BREATHED COMMUTE

Anyone who braves public transport to get to work knows there are several unavoidable realities of commuting. A morning coffee is essential, eye contact with everyone (even if you know them) must be avoided and conversation with strangers is only for tourists. Your commute is your sacred time for clearing through junk emails before arriving at the office and, inevitably, you’ll be squashed uncomfortably close to someone with bad breath at least once a week.

Bad breath is often the worst in the morning due to open-mouth breathing overnight causing dryness. It is this dryness that allows bad breath bacteria to thrive hence the halitosis. If you’ve suffered the misfortune of standing next to someone with bad breath on the tube, you’re probably self conscious about your own. With this in mind UltraDEX,who teamed up with leading dentist Dr Mervyn Druian, have build a list of top tips to guarantee that you don’t become the commuting bad breath beast. Here’s 4 IDEAL tips for a fresh breathed commute.

DON’T RUSH YOUR BRUSHING

Many are guilty of pressing snooze too many times, or forgetting that early conference call. This can lead to bolting to the front door before remembering our mouths. However,  giving yourself time to carry out your usual oral health routine will make you feel much fresher than those extra few minutes on the pillow. But, if you are out of time, at least swoosh with an alcohol-free oral rinse which contains fluoride to eliminate bad breath and protect your teeth and gums – until you find time to brush.

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST

Skipping breakfast is one of the worst dirty habits for bad breath as it leaves the morning mouth dry allowing bacteria to linger. However, choosing something quick like a cereal bar can supply the mouth with sugar creating an even greater environment for bacteria to grow. Eating breakfast gives your mouth that much needed saliva boost to flush the bacteria away. A piece of fresh fruit and a glass of water are the best on the go solutions.

CARRY EMERGENCY SUPPLES

Squeezing on to the correct carriage of the train for your stop can mean your face can end up much further into someone else’s personal space than either of you is comfortable with. So if you think you breath is anything less than fresh then use carry some emergency supplies. The pocket-sized UltraDEX Fresh Breath Spray eliminates bad breath for 12 hours with just one pump. This is a fast-track to fresh breath before the hot and sticky commuter squeeze.

THE IDEAL JEWELRY STYLING GUIDE TO ACCESSORISING ACCORDING TO YOUR FAVOURITE OUTFITS

Editorial Team
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THE IDEAL JEWELRY STYLING GUIDE TO ACCESSORISING ACCORDING TO YOUR FAVOURITE OUTFITS

How a woman chooses to accessorize her outfit is more than telling than the clothing itself. Knowing how to pick jewelry that suits not only your garments, but also your personal style is an outstanding aptitude not everyone possesses. There is a time and a place for certain pieces, so we’ll take this concept to more depth.

CHOOSE SUBDUED PIECES FOR THE OFFICE

When it comes to properly accessorizing your favorite professional outfits, the first thing you need to assess is how conservative of an office you are employed in. The more traditional the environment is, the fewer ornaments you should adorn yourself with. In a conformist setting, delicate stud earrings paired with an elegant two-piece suit are the way to go.

If your workplace isn’t too strict, then you certainly have a bit more freedom to choose your accessories. As long as you don’t wear too many trinkets and you steer clear of noisy pieces, you will certainly pull it off. Nevertheless, always try to stick to classic and tasteful items that won’t blind your coworkers with their extravagance or kitsch aesthetic.

The golden rule that will always prevent you from going overboard is to remove one piece of jewelry before leaving the house in the morning. According to Business Insider, it’s always safer to wear either a necklace or a pair of earrings instead of both when you’re unsure of what the general vibe in your department is.

Fortunately, for less conservative places of work, you can sport an entire ensemble of decorations. As long as you keep it along the lines of one necklace, one bracelet or watch, a pair of earrings, and a ring, you will feel like a million dollars and look the part as well. However, if you choose one of them as a statement piece, always skip out on the other components.

Of course, this means that you will have to keep your outfit choice neutral. If you want to go for bold colors instead, tone down the jewelry. Excess is downright charming on a Friday night in the club, but it is completely inappropriate while you’re on the job. Let the individual elements of your aspect stand out on separate occasions.

PULL OUT THE PEARS FOR FORMAL EVENTS

Formal events are an opportunity to showcase your sophistication and chiseled sense of style, and naturally jewelry plays a huge role in this. This is the time for you to whip out your most expensive pieces and let them enhance the appearance of the gown you are wearing. If there’s one universal rule here, it’s that you can never go wrong with pearls.

Regardless of the dress code at the function, you cannot go wrong with a beautiful white pearl necklace that has a simple design and graceful features. In the words of one of the most revered style icons of the 1960s, Jacqueline “Jackie” Kennedy Onassis, “pearls are always appropriate”. Pair them with white or yellow gold accents depending on their color. 

For a modern aesthetic, never pair a pearl necklace with matching pearl earrings, bracelets, or rings. Choose subdued pieces instead, and you will match the cut, fabric, color, and neckline of just about any elegant dress you decide to wear. Actually, if you want to consider one of these aspects, let it be the neckline.

How your dress is cut in the décolletage area will greatly influence how the piece fits in with your complete appearance. A Cinderella cut might look better with bolder jewels, but a plunging neckline will always be better suited for delicacy. It’s not mandatory to go for pearls either. When the ocean’s most precious gems aren’t your cup of tea, go for diamonds instead.

Another it girl of the 1960s once said that they are a girl’s best friend, and we all know who that was. We’re talking about the glamorous Marilyn Monroe, whose inextricable link to Jackie’s husband himself, former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, might have gained her some fame, but not as much as her impeccable sense of style.

The main takeaway here is that you will never go wrong with diamonds and pearls for a formal event. If you want to make a statement, choose a draping necklace that combines the two. However, if this is your main alternative, be prepared to spend some money on such a piece. After all, we’re talking about two of the world’s most expensive precious ornaments.

BLING YOURSELF UP FOR WEEKEND PARTIES

Weekend get-togethers and parties are the ideal occasion to go all out with your bling selection. Jewelry etiquette doesn’t dictate much else in this respect, but you should nevertheless be cautious not to exaggerate and overshadow your clothing or personality. Other than that, you are free to go wild with accessories.

This is the time to wear your big hoops, chandelier earrings, chunky hardware rings, stacked bracelets, or bulky and colorful necklaces. Still, you might not want to put all of these on simultaneously. To keep it high fashion, a good rule of thumb would be never put two statement pieces too close to each other.

For example, if you are rocking those large 80s hoops, don’t choose a heavy necklace. A quirky and colorful ring selection, however, is perfectly fine in this situation. Yet, it should never be paired with thick and dangly bracelets. These are just a few things to consider when putting together your party outfit. When choosing statement rings or unique jewellery for weekend parties, don’t forget to explore Diamondere collections. Stand out with engagement rings and custom diamond pieces that elevate any look, making your ensemble one-of-a-kind.

What is more, if you are one to follow protocol, you have the chance to ditch it for this type of affair. Anything goes at a bash or club rave. You can mix your metals and gemstones, wear multiple rings at a time, play with color and sparkle, and much more. All you need is the inspiration and drive to be out of the ordinary.

 

6 IDEAL LIFESTYLE CHANGES WHICH COULD HELP YOU SAVE MONEY

Editorial Team
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6 IDEAL LIFESTYLE CHANGES WHICH COULD HELP YOU SAVE MONEY

Yep, we know what you’re thinking. Another article about the accumulative cost of your coffee habit. Another damn piece imploring me to cut down on the avocado. And sure, those changes might put place a few extra coppers in the piggy bank, but we’re here to look at the bigger picture; the subtle habitual shifts which could change your spending patterns and bring about real, positive change to your bank balance. So, whether you’re saving up for a big lifestyle change or simply like to think savvy with your spending, here are 6 IDEAL lifestyle changes which could help you save money.

PLAN AHEAD

As simple as it sounds, you can’t save money retrospectively. Hindsight is a wonderful thing, but once pounds have been spent, they’re spent. Gone. Dispensed with. So planning ahead is the only really meaningful way to save some serious coin.

This is particularly relevant if you find yourself saving for a big event. If you have a specific goal in mind, then let that goal be your focus from the start, and use it as your motivation to decline that post-work pint that inevitably turns into ten, and the astronomical spend associated with it. If you’re really serious about saving, set up a calendar countdown on your phone or hang one at home. Budgeting by day, with the end goal clearly visible, helps make things seem more real; a really useful approach when so much spending is now done without physical, tangible cash changing hands.

INVEST WISELY

Of course, reducing your spend to absolutely zero is impossible. There’s maintenance costs, transport, food, and general outgoings to contend with, not to mention the need for a little r’n’r now and then. Indeed, there are some lifestyle necessities which splashing the cash on will actually save you more money in the long run. This goes for a well functioning car, and home utilities, for example, such as washing machines or your fridge.

Better quality products usually cost more money, but with higher spec comes longevity. After all, it is better to invest wisely once than accumulate a list of payments over a long period of time due to repairs and maintenance. 

ENLIST SOME PEER SUPPORT

One ideal way to save money is by getting your friends involved and letting them know you’re looking to cut back on your social spending. Of course, you shouldn’t go full hermit-style and isolate yourself; just find some activities which don’t cost the world which you enjoy sharing with friends.

Perhaps a night in with a DVD or Netflix binge would suit your current state-of-spend more than a trip to the cinema or going out for a meal. If you’re thinking of a fancy birthday meal, you could instead opt for a barbeque at the park, and save money by cooking the food yourself and taking along a ball for a kickabout. Having fun with friends doesn’t always need to involve spending money, as it’s the shared company that holds the real value.

THINK FRUGALLY ABOUT FOOD

We’ve all been there; a long, stressful day at work and a late finish leads you straight into the takeaway on your way home, the ingredients for that Bolognese safe in the fridge for at least another day. It doesn’t help that there are so many delivery services available at the touch of a button and deals aplenty to entice you. However, cutting back on frivolous food expenditure can have a major impact on your outgoings every month, one which you’ll notice almost immediately.

Little and often is a great philosophy to keep when you’re trying to save, and cutting back on lots of smaller outgoings will go a long way. And that goes for your waist line, too. If you’re peckish, wait till you get home to eat as opposed to picking up a snack on the way home. If you’re thirsty, go for a simple bottle of water as opposed to expensive fruit juice. Branded products, although almost identical in content, are often considerably more expensive, so bear that in mind when doing your (much recommended) weekly shop.

Getting busy in the kitchen is one sure-fire way to save money. Bulk buying fresh vegetables and meat – cheaper, of course, than single items – allows you to cook larger batches of whatever takes your fancy, saving money on lunch and dinner further down the week. Meal plans are a great way to get everything documented and organised, meaning you’ll save time as well as money. Result!

LEARN TO SAY NO

Saying no to plans may be tricky, but getting a track on your finances is all about balance. If your friends are planning a big night out or weekend away somewhere, and it looks as though you may not be able afford it this time, don’t let FOMO sway you. Opportunities will come again and it’s okay to take a step back and miss out occasionally. Learn to say no politely and with grace, and you’ll enjoy the next night out with a renewed sense of vigour.

BEFORE A BIG PURCHASE, DO YOUR RESEARCH

One of the most fundamental ways you can save money is by doing thorough, considered research prior to any purchase of magnitude. The list of possible savings is endless. For example, work out which local petrol station has the cheapest fuel before you fill up. Or, if you’re heading out food shopping, look online for any deals or vouchers beforehand. If a birthday is coming up, head to sites such as Groupon to get the best deals so you can celebrate the day without losing too many funds.

And should you be considering going away, spend a good amount of time researching the area for the most suitable accommodation, and plan in advance to get the best flight deals possible. Price comparison sites are perfect for finding your next insurance deal, and websites such as HandsetExpert can recommend the best deals for mobile phones and tariffs.

Indeed, it seems that money can be saved on almost anything if you have the patience to assess your options first. It may seem a hassle to dedicate such time simply to research, – after all, who doesn’t love the odd splurge done on a whim – but those rushed decisions can quickly pile up, leaving a burning hole in your jean pocket. And you won’t have enough money to buy a new pair.

4 IDEAL WAYS TO DEAL WITH PROCRASTINATION IN THE OFFICE

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL WAYS TO DEAL WITH PROCRASTINATION IN THE OFFICE

Hey you! Yes, you. Stop reading IDEAL magazine and hop to it; there’s work to be done. Ok, maybe first, finish this article. View it as an investment.

Everyone is guilty of procrastinating – even as we type this, we’re perusing buzzfeed lists and cute animal videos – but some of us (yep, us) are far worse than others. And employers might want to take note as new research reveals that office workers are spending a whopping 1 day, 2 hours and 6 minutes over the space of a year watching the office antics of others alone. Add this to the amount of time we spend on social media or making unnecessary cups of tea or coffee that only go cold, and that’s a lot of time spent procrastinating. 

The research, conducted by Direct Blinds looked into how much time we actually spend distracted from our work schedules and found that  people watching from the office is one of the main culprits with office workers spending 2 hours 30 minutes every month ‘people watching. With this in mind here are 4 IDEAL ways to deal with procrastination in the office.

REMOVE DISTRACTIONS

All it takes is a message from a friend on your phone and your focus will spiral out of control and you’ll start looking at something completely unrelated to what you were doing before. Therefore it’s important to find out what distracts you when you’re working and remove it. Do you find yourself singing along to songs? Turn off the music and put on something more relaxing. Are you constantly on your phone? Lock it in a drawer and turn on silent mode. Constantly snacking? Eat a meal before you work to beat cravings. Wondering what those people outside your office window are talking about? Get some blinds.

Distractions are the main cause of procrastination and you need to find ways to get rid of them as best as you can. You could even enlist the help of your friends and colleagues and tell them you’re not to be disturbed and sink into some solid work. All the fun things will still be there when you finish, but you’ll have actually made some money with which you can appreciate them more.

SET SPECIFIC TIMES FOR A BREAK

We can’t be expected to work the whole day with no breaks or breathers. Set specific times for your breaks as knowing when you’ll be able to nip out to the shop or eat your lunch will help keep you motivated so you can get those tasks out of the way first. Then you’ll come back refreshed and ready to tackle the next task with verb and vigour. Indeed, studies have shown that workers are at their most productive when they work at 45-minute spells and then take a 15-minute break. It’s a perfect excuse to go for a walk and get some fresh air.

MAKE A TO-DO LIST

It can often feel like you’re juggling a million things at once in the office, causing you to feel overwhelmed, which in turn leads to distraction. Planning ahead is a fantastic way to avoid this feeling and get focused for your day in the office. Start your day with a to-do list, setting aside 15 minutes in the morning before you delve into your workload. Prioritising and separating tasks into more manageable chunks then, with designated times and targets, serves to break up the monumental task considerably. A visual list of what lies ahead can help your focus as you cross-off your way to the end of the day.

DE-CLUTTER

A messy desk, and a messy mind; two states which seemingly go hand in hand. So re- organise your space. If the root of your clutter problem does not lie in the rubbish, but in a lack of storage, get some savvy sorting solutions like a desk organiser to help you minimise clutter and bring real organisation to your workplace. When it comes to office design, it’s about entering the minimalist zone, trying to get rid of any and all distractions that threaten to take your eye off the work in hand. Because once you lose focus, it can be difficult to regain it. And de-cluttering your workspace isn’t just about the physical stuff, go through your desktop and clean that up too. 

What To Eat In Sicily: The Best Things To Eat In Sicily

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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What To Eat In Sicily: The Best Things To Eat In Sicily

Limiting a list to 4 IDEAL things to try in Sicily is quite frankly impossible. From the well known – but not rightly enough – pasta con le sarde, to moreish involtoni parcels which feature such delicacies as tuna wrapped in pig fat or aubergine rolled round goats cheese, we’ve had some of the best meals of our lives in this part of the world.

As with many of the best foods in the world, both history and geography play a huge part. The positioning of Sicily is unique; European but close to the Middle East and on historic trade routes between Turkey, Greece and Tunisia means there is a heavy influence of North African and Arab ingredients and recipes in the cooking.

Indeed, Sicily has been conquered by many different nations, dating back to and before the 7th century where Arabic explorers bought their ingredients and mixed it with whatever they found. All this has led to a poetic mash up of dishes that distinguishes the flavour of Sicily  from the rest of Italy and beyond. So on your next visit to Sicily, here are the best things to eat on the island.

ARANCINI

No doubt you’ve tried arancini balls in the UK, however there’s nothing quite like tasting these moreish balls in the place that they hail from. Wherever you go in Sicily, you’ll find arancini piled high in shop windows. Hold one in your hand with the intent of devouring it in couple of mouthfuls and you’ll be eating an edible artefact of the island’s history, which would take us the entire article to delve into; instead we’ll point you to this complete guide to arancini in Sicily.

By vvoevale via Canva

CAPONATA

Aubergine and tomato, sweet, sour (not you Chinese kind) and stewed. Sounds pedestrian, but for us, it makes total sense. These agrodolce flavours that are typical of the island totally work. Whether you have it on bread, as a pasta sauce, or just eat it on its own with a spoon, it always hits the spot. Indeed, the tang and piquancy of this dish is the ideal example of how the Sicilians not only use aubergine as a staple in their cuisine, but of their flamboyant and bold flavour combinations that sets their cuisine apart from the rest of Italy, showcasing the aforementioned, external influences over the island’s cuisine.

CANNOLI

One of the most famous sweet treats Italy has to offer is Sicilian through and through. These tube-shaped shells of fried pastry dough, filled with a sweet, creamy filling usually containing ricotta are a staple of Sicilian cuisine. The crunch of of cannoli shell with the contrast of the yielding filling provides thrilling contrast and the ricotta base offers a vehicle for Arab scented flavours such as rose water and pistachio.

PASTA CON LE SARDE

Dried fruit, oily fish and nuts….who knew? But fennel, sultanas, pine nuts, anchovies and sardines is a flavour combo that we adore. This is a dish that has been heavily influenced by the cooking of Arabs (who ruled Sicily more than a thousand years ago) and to this day remains one of its more iconic dishes. 

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR OPENING YOUR DREAM BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR OPENING YOUR DREAM BOUTIQUE HOTEL

It’s a conversation that we’ve all had so many times in the midst of holiday heaven, usually when sipping cocktails on the beach, wearing rose tinted glasses to shade your eyes from the tropical sun. It goes a little something like this:

You “Isn’t this the life. Imagine if we could stay here forever …”

Your partner “ But what would we do?”

You: “We could buy that old rundown property down the road and turn it into a boutique hotel?”.

You both ponder the possibilities and the potential, plotting exactly how you’re going to overhaul your lives and secure enough money to invest in your new hypothetical venture. Oh, the dangers of too much time spent daydreaming on the beach…..

But, if you’re serious about laying down your roots somewhere sunnier and more exotic, with hospitality and hosting at the heart of your everyday, then you’re gonna need some guidance. So, here are 5 IDEAL tips on opening your dream boutique hotel.

TAKE A STEP BACK, IT’S HARDER THAN YOU THINK

Sure you might imagine the charmed life of a hotelier; hosting glamorous guests, taking daily dips in the sea and sipping on cocktails in the evening, and sure, this sounds great.  But owning and running a hotel is much more complicated than this, with more time spent on paperwork in the office than on loungers in the sun. You’ll have to muck in with all sorts of jobs including pouring drinks, cleaning toilets and more. A good way of understanding the sort of jobs you’ll be doing (and how to do them efficiently) is to get some training and a certificate in hospitality.

While we’re all for following your dreams, make sure this truly is your dream before doing anything drastic like selling your house. Remember that a life in hospitality isn’t a holiday.

RESEARCH & STAY IN TOUCH WITH TRENDS

If you’re undeterred and want to make the dream a reality, first things first – do your research. There are so many hotel openings each year, some fail and some succeed. To be better than everyone else you’ve got to track the trends and research, research, research, especially if you’ve never worked in the hospitality industry before. Sign up to industry newsletters and stay at as many hotels as possible to find out what you like and dislike. Aspiring hotel owners have got to get under the skin of the business to be able to succeed.

KNOW YOUR MARKET AND MARKET IT

You need to work out who you’re marketing to? What type of audience are you trying to attract? Once you’ve figured that out, then make sure you appeal to your target audience and get noticed by that segment. The web makes it easier for small hotels to be found but in the hospitality industry you should never underestimate the power of a good travel marketing company.

PICK AN IDEA AND RUN WITH IT

With so many boutique hotels out there, you’ve got to be worth remarking about. What’s your unique selling point going to be? Once you have a clear idea, stick to it. You might  have all sorts of creative and innovative ideas for your boutique hotel concept – and that’s great – but the challenge is not to get your message confused. 

LISTEN TO YOUR CUSTOMERS

The number one rule of the trade always remains the same: listen to your customers. You may have a vision for your hotel, but you need to use all your senses when you’re running a business which is, ultimately, for other people. If you don’t you risk bad reviews and publicity, and in the information age this negative press can spread fast. Keep on top of the customer experience and you’ll be rewarded with loyalty.

5 IDEAL REASONS FRIENDSHIPS ARE IMPORTANT

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL REASONS FRIENDSHIPS ARE IMPORTANT

Friends aren’t just for summer like a dog isn’t just for Christmas. From better brainpower to the phenomena colloquially called, “friendfluence”, it’s safe to say friends can have dramatically positive effects on our lives. Top Life Coach, Carole Ann Rice knows how important it is to surround yourself with honesty and authenticity. We’ve asked her to share 5 IDEAL reasons why friendships are important.

YOU CHOOSE TO BE FRIENDS

You can choose your friends, but you can’t choose your family. The people in our
lives who can be draining at times are often our family, but we can’t simply delete them from our lives. Whereas with friends are those we choose to be around, unlike the duty-bound family ties. Friends are joyous! You go out of your way to know and understand your friends and vice versa, while your family may not always understand you.

FRIENDS OF ALL TYPES

Having a composite set of friends is key. Don’t expect having an all-inclusive packaged
friend, you may have a gym buddy, a pal you play music and drink wine with, or a pal you grab coffee with every couple months and catch-up. A friend you catch the latest movies with, a networking friend, or even an ‘old’ friend you remember good times with. Different friends for different parts of your lifestyle and personality.

FRIENDS LOVE YOU

Reminder: not only did you choose to be pals with them, but they did the same! Your friends all love and respect you. They make you feel good and laugh.

YOU CAN ALWAYS MAKE NEW PALS

It could be you’ve started a new job and you start a conversation with Brad from accounting, or you’ve moved houses and your neighbours help you unpack. There are always new ways and opportunities to connect with new people. Expanding your social circle is an ongoing thing; you’re not bound to the pals you made in your 20s.

FRIENDS WILL BE THERE FOR YOU

You don’t need a TV show intro to tell you this. But when you’re low, you always have a friend to download onto and vice versa. And when you’re on a high in life, you have people to raise a glass with. If you genuinely love seeing your pals, they can be a massive tonic of wellbeing for us.

5 SIGNS YOU AREN’T LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE AND IDEAL THINGS TO DO ABOUT IT 

Editorial Team
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5 SIGNS YOU AREN’T LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE AND IDEAL THINGS TO DO ABOUT IT 

In life, some of us are numb, going day-by-day physically awake, but emotionally asleep. We’re in the doldrums, seeing life in a grey tone. As the Buddhists say, “the majority of people sleep walk through life… the trick is to wake up, become aware and do things
consciously, then you can make better choices.”

The International Authority for Professional Coaching & Mentoring is the leading accreditation body for professional coaches. With that in mind, their Sales & Marketing director, Dawn Ann Campbell, shares her five signs you aren’t living your best life and what you can do about it.

LOW ENERGY AND NO MOJO

In times when we feel enervated and exhausted, it becomes vital to focus on what makes you feel good, what brings you joy, and what we can do to have more of those things in our lives. Even taking the time each morning to just ‘be’, breathe, or read a few pages of inspirational material with a green smoothie is a great start!

YOU’RE NOT SLEEPING WELL

Keep a pad and pen by your bed and note down what is stopping you
from sleeping. Getting those feelings out is critical for moving on and getting back to your doze. Dreams have a funny way of being analogies of our lives, so also note your dreams as they can have a hidden meaning.

YOUR APPETITE ISN’T NORMAL

Your appetite isn’t normal – under-eating and over-eating can both indicate unhappiness or stress. It’s easy to turn to comfort food in times of emotional intensity, so ask yourself: what’s eating you, what emotions are you swallowing, and what needs are not being met that could be causing this?

YOU’RE BAD COMPANY

Ask friends and family for feedback on your behaviour. If they say that you’ve been different lately, ask them how long it’s been going on for and what they think is the issue. More often than not, they’ll pick up thing and read between the lines. That being said, no-one knows you better than you know you, so listen to your gut too!

YOU’RE LIVING YOU’RE LIFE THROUGH TV

On average, 40% of our time is spent in front of a screen. If you’re sitting watching TV, take a step-back and realise you are. Calculate the number of minutes (or hours) you have lost watching TV, and use that time next week on something that moves you closer to a better life, or finding your purpose and your pleasure.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO TAME YOUR ANGER

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO TAME YOUR ANGER

The person on the tube is talking loudly in your ear, or you spilled coffee all over your brand-new white shirt. Whatever the reason is, sometimes we get so hot and bothered that we feel seconds away from transforming into the Incredible Hulk. It’s perfectly natural and valid at times, but anger can also be a detrimental emotion to feel. Finding ways to manage anger within yourself can go a long way in saving relationships and keeping you out of
sticky situations.

Top Life Coach, Carole Ann Rice knows what anger can do to ourselves and the people around us. So, she’s revealing her top five ways to tame the angry beast inside of you. Here’s 5 IDEAL ways to tame your anger.

GET RID OF YOUR ANGER IN A HEALTY WAY…

i.e. not on someone else – not only does anger hurt others but holding onto it also hurts you. Even if you shouted at someone else, you’re the one with the red, unctuous face and high-blood pressure, feeling hot and panicky. Anger has the potential to hurt the one feeling it just as much as than the one on the flipside.

CONSIDER WHAT YOU’RE ACTUALLY ANGRY ABOUT

Ask yourself, ‘What am I angry about exactly?’ – is it that people have misunderstood something? Has there been a serious injustice? Anger is very much a response to not getting what you want or feeling misunderstood.

IS IT REASONABLE TO BE THIS ANGRY?

People misinterpret each other all the time. Anger can be a natural response but it’s not always the most correct or measured solution. Resorting to anger can be misjudged at times. Don’t shout, try articulating what you feel in a cool, examined way.

STEP ASIDE AND COOL DOWN

If you’re in a social situation, step aside and cool down – no matter what function you’re at, it’s ok to sidebar yourself away. Family members can often push our buttons, but instead of causing a scene, go off and take a walk. Talk to a reliable friend. Spend some time alone, heck, even beat up a pillow to release how you feel! Get it out of your system so when you return, you feel more cathartic.

SAY HOW YOU FEEL TO SOMEONE

Say how you feel to someone – do you feel hurt? Undervalued? Misunderstood? You shouldn’t keep it bottled up inside, because you’re just asking for an eventual explosion. Externalise how you feel by saying, “I feel X because you did Y,” which is a great way to explain yourself without attacking someone outright.

7 IDEAL PLACES TO WATCH THE SUNRISE AND SUNSET IN FLORIDA

Editorial Team
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7 IDEAL PLACES TO WATCH THE SUNRISE AND SUNSET IN FLORIDA

Florida is well known for having some of the most beautiful places to visit, especially if you want to enjoy scenic views of sunrise and sunset, all whilst relishing in your holiday fun. With the help of, VISIT FLORIDA we’ve explored the very best things to do and places to go in order to take full advantage of the glorious sunrises and sunsets which await in the Sunshine State.

DAYTONA BEACH

Join the locals on the rooftop terrace high above Joe’s Crab Shack on the Main Street Pier, Daytona Beach. Hear the Atlantic Ocean waves crash against the pier as you take in breath-taking views of 23 miles of white sand while tucking into fresh seafood and drinking ice-cold beers

JUNO BEACH

Rated for its startlingly beautiful sunrises, Juno Beach never disappoints. During storms, Juno Beach is known to open up just as the sun breaks over the horizon, leaving visitors impressed and pleased to have witnessed a sunrise so scenic and memorable.

PANAMA CITY BEACH

Take part in a well-known Florida ritual at Schooners Last Local Beach Club, where locals and visitors gather round to raise a toast at sunset, which is signaled by the firing of the sunset canon.

PALM BEACH

A top choice of thrilling sunrise destinations within Florida include Palm Beach, a favorite for tourists and local Floridians, alike. An exclusive community for the super–rich, visitors love the historical density of an area filled with the dreams of the Kennedys, Trumps and Rockefellers. If one of your holiday goals include visiting a beach with soft, sugary sands, enjoying nearby golf courses, and of course waking up early to enjoy the sunrise then visiting Palm Beach is a must.

FORT PIERCE, INLET

In Fort Pierce, information about the following day’s sunrise and sunset as well as tides, temperatures, and phases of the moon are posted at nearly every waterfront hotel, restaurant, and marina. Wake up just a little after 7 a.m. and head to a park on the south side of the Fort Pierce Inlet where about a dozen visitors usually gather to watch the sunrise.

PENSACOLA BEACH

Grab a beer, order one of Renee’s shrimp salads and get ready for the live music to start at Pensacola’s Paradise Inn Bar & Grill. This charming beachside bar is bursting with personality and is a firm favorite for a sunset sundowner.

KISSIMMEE

Combine the sunset with a wild eco experience on an Everglades airboat tour in Kissimmee. Accompanied by an expert ecological guide, you’ll get unique views of lush sawgrass marshes, the thrill of a speedy ride, and the chance to spot Everglades wildlife – and all at the most beautiful time of the day.

4 IDEAL BENEFITS OF RENTING A SCOOTER ON YOUR TRAVELS

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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4 IDEAL BENEFITS OF RENTING A SCOOTER ON YOUR TRAVELS

There are some countries in the world which just beg to be experienced from the back of a scooter. The sense of freedom, the wind in your hair and sails, the feeling that adventure is just a rev away; it’s all found straddling the steel horse. As the late, great Anthony Bourdain rightly stated; “one of the great joys of life is riding a scooter through Hanoi’’. And such a freewheelin’ mantra could be applied to infinite locations; Seville, Barcelona, Rome, Marrakech, Chiang Mai and many more besides; all infinitely better on two wheels.  

There are plenty of pros and less cons to operating unescorted, unburdened and unleashed by bike while you travel. And while of course this approach does demand a little know-how and a touch of streetwise sensibility, it really is truly rewarding.If you’re not already convinced, then read on; our 4 IDEAL benefits of renting a scooter on your travels.

PRECIOUS TIME PRESERVED

When you’re travelling, time is precious. Experiences need experiencing, moments capturing and connections made. The wait for the next bus might be the difference between meeting the love of your life (or next few days) and spending the next part of your journey alone and un-enriched. There’s not doubt that travelling by scooter is usually quicker (and more fun), saving time on the road and that all important pondering-your-next-move part. Which brings us on to….

CHERISH SPONTANEITY AND FLEXIBILITY

Planning, preparation, strategy and foresight; not exactly words which chime with the spontaneous, carefree approach to travelling that most of us want. However, while a certain amount of planning is always advantageous when it comes to travelling, renting a motorbike means you can be a lot more flexible with your trip; if your new found best friends have a trip tomorrow, tagging along is as easy as turning a key. Companies like cooltra scooter rental make all the paperwork and red tape super easy, so all you really have to worry about is keeping your balance on the road!

SEE MORE, DO MORE

On two wheels, you can see so much more in less time; the journey, as they say, is so much more than the destination. You can see all the sights while in transit, as well as being able to hop off when and where you like. If you suddenly decide to change course, then the getting lost, the finding, and the exploring will likely yield a whole host of new experiences which being confined to a car, bus or train would simply not offer.

POUND PREDICTABLE

While the jury’s still out on whether or not scootin’ is the cheapest form of transport, it’s certainly likely to save a few more pennies than taxis or car hire and other transportation costs. What’s more, it’s much easier to budget for than the aforementioned cabs, as you usually pay up front, in advance and in a simple, easy to predict manner. Perfect, then, for relieving one less money based planning headache from your trip!

 

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR NATIONAL DUMPLING DAY: CHICKEN & CHIVE

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR NATIONAL DUMPLING DAY: CHICKEN & CHIVE

Celebrate National Dumpling Day on Wednesday 26 September 2018 with Royal China’s Dim Sum recipe that is easy to make at home. Royal China prides itself on serving authentic Chinese cuisine and its restaurants are renowned as the ‘go to’ place for Dim Sum in London. Why not try and craft these delicious dumplings at home with this step-by step recipe?

INGREDIENTS

  • 300g Ground Chicken
  • 200g Shelled fresh shrimps
  • ½ a bunch of finely chopped Chinese garlic chives
  • 1 Garlic clove, crushed
  • 1 tbs Chinese Shao Shing wine
  • 1 tbs Light soy sauce
  • ½ tsp Freshly grated ginger
  • ½ tsp Ground dried shrimp
  • 1 pinch Sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp Sesame oil
  • 1 tbs Cornstarch
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • ½ tsp Ground white pepper
  • Whole chives
  • 4 Shu-mei wrappers (Wonton Skin)

METHOD

  1. Whip by hand all filling ingredients until they all hold together.
  2. Place a dollop the filling in the centre of each wrapper and bring up the corners to form a little “money bag.” Leave the top open so that you can see some of the meat.
  3. Blanch the whole chives in very hot water tap water. Then tie a chive around the neck of each dumpling so that it looks like it is wearing a little green belt.
  4. Steam the dumplings in an oiled bamboo steamer for 15 minutes, in a steaming wok.
  5. Serve hot with sweet chilli dip sauce.

4 IDEAL EVERYDAY USES FOR SYNTHETIC DIAMONDS

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL EVERYDAY USES FOR SYNTHETIC DIAMONDS

If you’re obsessed with all things that sparkle then you are in the right place. It’s a well-known fact that women love diamonds, but what about the synthetic kind? As you’ve probably guessed, a synthetic diamond is one that’s produced in an artificial process as opposed to natural diamonds, which are created by geological processes. And surprisingly, synthetic diamonds are used in more ways than you might have originally realised, including many items in our homes that we use all the time. With this mind, here are 4 IDEAL everyday uses for synthetic diamonds.

SPEAKERS

If you’re a music fan, synthetic diamonds can transform the quality of sound. Yep, synthetic diamonds are used in speakers. This type of diamond can be manipulated into certain shapes, creating the ideal traditional dome shape of speakers. Moreover, many believe these types of speakers have a supreme sound quality as pointed out by Element Six in their latest eBook, ‘Ultimate Super Material: The Diversity of Diamonds,’downloadable here: ‘Element Six – Campaign eBook – Final v3 (1) (2).

YOUR HARD SERVICES

Synthetic diamonds are extremely durable. For this reason, they’re used in drill bits and saws to cut down hard, resistant material. So if you have any seriously hard rock in your house, it’s likely that a diamond cutter or saw, from a company like Element Six who specialise in creating synthetic diamonds to create cutting tools and cutters for hard rock such as granite, was used to cut it down. Indeed, you might have slate on your fireplace hearth, or in your garden or granite work surfaces that we’re cut with diamonds. In addition, this supermaterial may have delivered a precision finish to your furniture, as well as being used in electrical household items.

TABLETS, LAPTOP & COMPUTER

Speaking of household items, you might even find diamonds in your tablets and computers. This is because the synthetic diamonds are electrically conductive without producing excessive amounts of heat, making them the ideal material for electrical goods. Moreover, the diamond material enables high precision production at increased speeds.

HEALTHCARE

Chances are you’ve probably come across the use of synthetic diamond in the healthcare industry if you or a family member has ever undergone a minor operation. Synthetic diamond components is revolutionising non-invasive surgery, where advanced fibre optics deliver high power laser beams. These technologies could replace traditional surgery, as medical professionals now have precise, bio-compatible tools, which can be used in a whole host of ways. This lessens the burden for patients and allows the operation to be performed in a far shorter time span, which is beneficial to patients, surgeons and hospitals overall.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF SMALL SPACES IN A HOME

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF SMALL SPACES IN A HOME

If you’re reading this article, you probably already live in a small place or you’re looking to downsize. Living in a small abode is attractive for so many reasons. Indeed, a smaller home can help cut down on the actual cost of living, save precious time spent cleaning and more importantly, lower your environmental footprint. In addition, it can help purge your life of the things you don’t need, minimizing your overall clutter.

While there are many benefits of living in a small home, unfortunately they have a reputation as being a bit of problem when it comes to making them “work”. However, the good news is that there are plenty of tricks to make the most out of a petite home or apartment. Little things, for example, like installing drawers that are just 10 inches deeper than average can create lots of additional space to store stuff! So with downsizing in mind here are 5 IDEAL ways to make the most out of small spaces in a home.

FLOATING AND OPEN SHELVING

Corners and vertical spaces are your best friends if you live in a small space. Open and floating shelving will help you free as much floor space as possible and create additional storage spaces to house anything from a makeshift closet and bookshelves to a minute office setup. Not to mention the fact that they can fit everywhere from under stairs and over bookcases to nooks and, why not, even over doorways!

FURNITURE WITH MULTI-USE OR FOLD UP FUNCTIONALITIES

Just a quick look into the current market will give you a plethora of pieces of stylish furniture designed with utmost small-space functionality in mind. You could invest on loft beds (the new modern styles are similar to dormitory-like beds), foldable chairs, fold-out desks and tables (also extendable tables), coffee tables or ottomans with storage space inside, and Murphy beds. The idea is to leave the floor as empty as possible. Then, you may fill the unused space with your absolute essentials (i.e., a sofa).

LESS IS MORE!

Getting in the right mindset when living in a small space is key. The whole idea here is to go with one large statement piece, like a big corner sofa (it may sound counterintuitive, but it really works), instead of many cluttered, tiny paintings and small knick-knacks. Also, take a good look around the home or apartment and see if there are any stuff that you don’t really need, like those display cases or extra bookcases.  

PLAY WITH LIGHT AND CREATE REFLECTIONS

Natural light can transform your small space. Allowing as much of it as possible enter your rooms will make the spaces feel bigger. To maximise natural light, consider putting up light window treatments, although this may not be ideal for bedroom windows. The secret here is to avoid covering your windows up and ensuring your curtain rods extend beyond the window frame. Then, the place will instantly feel more spacious! Now, if you don’t have that many windows, creating reflections is another tried-and-true way to open up space. Consider hanging a large, decorative mirror opposite a window.

Another option to consider is the installation of bi-fold doors to your home. This stylish renovation option fills your living spaces with light and makes a room look larger. They are also ideal for creating an outside-in vibe, which is perfect for admiring and enjoying your garden space.

USE COLOUR WISELY

The right selection of the colour palette can dramatically change the feel and look of your small apartment or home. So, use colour to your advantage by choosing lighter shades for the walls to make the room feel bigger or opt for a darker hue to create the illusion of space, add depth and expand the space.

In regards to your décor, opt for neutral tones. If you want to inject some texture or colour to increase the wow factor and add interest, you could use pops of texture and colour. Steer clear from loud patterns and large prints, though, which will give you the opposite result and make your space feel more cramped than it really is.

FINAL TIPS

  • Drawing the eye up will help cultivate a much-appreciated sense of openness. Have you noticed how hanging pictures up high or installing the curtain rods a tad higher than the window frame make low-ceiling rooms seem loftier?
  • Moving things to the edges of a room is a common practice among many small-home owners that wish to make their rooms look more sizeable. This, unfortunately, takes the sense of warmth away. Centring the place is believed to be a much more effective method to give a more airy sensation to the space. Try moving your sofa, club chair, and slipper chair toward the middle of the room (you could help unify the room by placing a neutral-coloured rug under the sitting arrangement) and see how it feels. Some people find it bizarre while others love it!
  • Mixing various green options (could be eclectic white pots with flowers, macramé plant hangers, or long, hanging plants that drape down from high shelves) can help give a natural and diversified look to the space.

 

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