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4 IDEAL REASONS TO GET A TOURING CARAVAN

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL REASONS TO GET A TOURING CARAVAN

The great British staycation. What was once nae has recently and most affirmatively turned into yay where the question of holidaying at home is concerned. And what better way to experience the countryside at close quarters, to breathe in nature each morning and look deep into the stars at night than from the vantage point of a caravan?

And if you’re thinking about going on a caravanning adventure, we’ve teamed up with Flogas, a top supplier of camping gas bottles to holiday sites across the UK, to bring you 4 IDEAL reasons to get a touring caravan.

A REAL SENSE OF FREEDOM

Windows rolled down, Springsteen on the radio and nothing but the open road and a sense of endless possibilities in our hearts. Indeed, you get a real sense of freedom and adventure spending those warm, heady summer weeks driving around in a touring caravan. It’s a wonderful way to explore parts of the UK you’re yet to exeprience in an exciting and relatively affordable manner.

THROW OFF THE SCHEDULE SHACKLES

If planning is not exactly your forte, and holidays seem to be constantly in the discussion phase, then a touring caravan may suit your perennial procrastination just perfectly. On nothing more than a whim, you can choose to hit the high road and decide on the destination once the aforementioned Bruce is on the stereo and the pedal is very much to the metal.

It’s almost as though you’re seconds from a holiday at any time; a wonderful, freewheelin’ feeling. Moreover, people who get bored easily and enjoy seeing new things are brilliantly suited to a touring caravan. Once you’re ready to see a new sight, simply pack up your gear and drive your caravan to a new campsite. 

Psst, hey you rubbish planner! Bear in mind that many caravan sites close and shut down their facilities in the winter, so a little foresight is needed with a touring caravan.

IT’S CHEAPER THAN A STATIC CARAVAN

Without wishing to crush the spontaneity with practical considerations, it’s time we talk about money. Generally a touring caravan is cheaper than a static one. What’s more, you won’t have as many ground costs — maintenance and rent for instance — in comparison to a static caravan. It is important to check possible restrictions on keeping your touring caravan in your drive – every council has slightly different rules regarding this.

Bear in mind, too, the type of vehicle you own and if it’s strong enough to pull a caravan. Your vehicle will need to have an engine that is powerful enough to tow your caravan, particularly on the ascent. This is an added expense that you may not have considered when first investing in your touring caravan, so you’ll want to do your homework to avoid an unpleasant surprise. 

A SENSE OF COMMUNITY

Gangs with a love of the open road? It’s not a notion solely confined to those in leather jackets with a love of causal violence. Indeed, the caravan community is an inclusive, vibrant affair; you’ll find ‘chapters’ all over the country ready to welcome you in. Such camaraderie means you’ll quickly have an established network of friends in different locations, all up for being your neighbour for the night, sharing a cold beer and stories of all things four wheeled and habitable. Lovely stuff.

4 IDEAL TIPS TO STRAIGHTEN YOUR HAIR WITHOUT HEAT

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL TIPS TO STRAIGHTEN YOUR HAIR WITHOUT HEAT

If you want poker straight hair, it’s tempting to reach for the blow dryer or flat iron everyday. However, we don’t have to tell you that over time, exposing your hair to such intense heat can cause so much damage. Straightners can cause hair loss and breakages leaving your locks looking thin and brittle. With this in mind, we’ve asked stylist to the stars Asgar Saboo to share IDEAL tips for heat-free straightening.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHAMPOO

It all starts with changing up your hair-wash routine. Choose a shampoo and conditioner specifically made to smooth your hair; they’re designed to weigh down and moisturise your locks with lasting results. Post wash, apply leave-in conditioner or smoothing cream to maximise moisture. If your hair is really thick and curly, apply hair oil such as argan or macadamia. This will be absorbed fully into your hair, leaving your locks looking glossy and straight.

TOWEL DRY

To avoid using heat on your hair, it’s important to make the most out of towel drying. Regularly using a blow dryer on your hair can leave it dry and visibly damaged.  Use your towel slowly and gently, otherwise the friction will leave your hair looking frizzy and tangled.

BRUSH IT OUT

Once you’ve towel dried your hair until it’s left only slightly damp, you’ll need to throughly brush your hair. Separate your locks into manageable sections and brush it out using a wide tooth comb. Brush firmly downwards, pulling your hair tightly to force straight and stop it from curling up. Repeat this motion every few minutes until your hair is completely dry. Applying a small amount of smoothing product such as coconut oil or mousse just before your hair dries will discourage frizz and prevent those unwanted waves from creeping in.

WRAP IT IN A SLIK SCARF AT NIGHT

To preserve your silky smooth and straight style overnight, wrap a silk scarf around your hair just before bed, When you unravel it in the morning, your hair should look just as perfect as the night before, as if by magic.

7 Of The Best Ways To Enjoy Oysters

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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7 Of The Best Ways To Enjoy Oysters

Oysters are considered one of the world’s most luxury foods.  They are low in fat, high in protein and are considered a good alternative to meat as they’re rich in iron. And most importantly, they’re god damned delicious.

In many European countries Oysters are traditionally served with mignonette – a condiment to accompany raw oysters. However, eat them in Asia and you’ll encounter wonderfully crunchy deep fried shallots for sweetness and a little chilli if you need some extra spice in your life. 

Even a purist can appreciate a well dressed oyster, and with just two more weeks of having an ‘r’ in the month, it’s time to guzzle. With the help of Bohemia’s Head Chef Steve Smith, here’s 7 IDEAL ways to enjoy oysters.

ADD TEQUILA

Liven up your oysters with tequila; one for the bivalve and one for you. A tequila and lime mignonette can be easily made by mixing together 2 tablespoons of tequila, 2 tablespoons of lime, the zest of half a lime, 2 tablespoons of finely chopped shallot, 1 tablespoon of chopped coriander and a pinch of salt.  Mix it all together then serve with freshly shucked oysters; a real treat.

DEEP FRIED

You don’t have to feel obliged to eat oysters raw, as many chefs insist. Indeed, deep fried oysters make a great snack or accompaniment to a main course fish dish. Post shucking, cover your oysters in plain flour, beaten egg and bread crumbs then deep fry for 1-2 minutes until they’re crispy. 

EAT THE THAI STYLE

Thai beach style oysters involving fully shucking a load, piling them high and enjoying raw with a variety of interesting dips. Think crispy shallots, a sweet chilli sauce, a punchy nahm phrik pao, fresh herbs like coriander, Chinese celery and chives, all served over ice. A few grains from sandy hands isn’t compulsory, but inevitable.

GRILL THEM

That smokey, moody taste of the barbeque certainly does no harm to the saline richness of oysters. In fact, it’s a match made in heaven. Shuck one and leave it in its flatter sided half shell – keeping the juices within, of course – then place on a hot barbeque grill. After a couple of minutes, remove (careful, that shell will be hot), and spoon over some spicy, sour Vietnamese dressing of MSG, limequat and chili. Oh, and plenty of crispy shallots. Perfect.

A TOUCH OF FIZZ

Oysters and Champagne are a classic pairing – one of the world’s finest – so why not add some fizz to your mignonette dressing to ramp up that sense of opulence and occasion?  To create the mignonette mix together Champagne vinegar, finely chopped shallots and cucumber, salt and pepper then allow to chill in the fridge. Add the real-deal Champagne to the mignonette just before serving to retain its fizz and vibrancy.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

If you want to keep the flavour minimal and maximise the majesty of the primary product, instead lightly warm the oyster through and simply serve with lemon juice.  If you prefer a saltier flavour as opposed to sour, add a teaspoon of seaweed butter on top of each oyster and warm for 3-4 minutes.

THE ALTERNATIVE

Ignore the naysayers about cheese and seafood having great animosity. In the right hands (yours, of course) they can really sing together. For a truly indulgent, alternative oyster dish, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the oysters, drizzle with melted butter and season with pepper, then grill the oysters for a minute or so.

5 IDEAL REASONS GUERNSEY IS EVERY GOURMAND’S DREAM

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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5 IDEAL REASONS GUERNSEY IS EVERY GOURMAND’S DREAM

Guernsey, the second largest of the Channel Islands, home to Matt Le Tissier and erm, some famous cows. It perhaps isn’t the first place you think of when weekend gastronomic getaways are being planned. But, push those provincial prejudices to one side; there’s some serious eating to be done here. Because of its location, temperate climate and those famous residents (minus Matt), the big G a ‘must-visit’ foodie destination.

The cuisine has Norman roots and idiosyncratic recipes that have been passed down through the years, giving its cuisine an individuality and voice all of its own. With alfresco dining abundant coupled with Michelin-starred restaurants and new eateries and bars opening all the time, it’s only a matter of time before foodies everywhere uproot and decide that living in Guernsey is for them. So, here are 5 IDEAL reasons Guernsey is every gourmand’s dream.

THE STUFF FROM THE SEA

The island’s beautifully rugged coastline brings in the best of the sea’s bounty daily – a chef and diner’s dream, indeed. Mussels, oysters and other molluscs thrive here and the brackish, nutrient-rich waters allow the sea farm industry to thrive. And it’s not only the bivalves that love to call here home. From locally caught crab and lobsters to daily dived for scallops and fresh off the boat fish, Guernsey is a seafood lovers dream.

For a unique experience, plan your visit around ormering season. Whenever there is an “ormering tide” the island goes wild, and with good reason. The omer is a local delicacy in the Channel Islands and there are only 24 days in the entire season, falling on the fall moon, new moon and two days following. So time is precious in these parts to enjoy these pearls of the ocean. Omers look a little like to oysters, but have a milder molluscan flavour and are often called sea-ears because of their shape. Whatever you call them, they’re a real treat.

THE LOCAL PRODUCE

If you think the stuff from the sea is impressive, don’t even get us started on the lot from the land. Guernsey’s local produce is fantastic and any foodie would be a fool not to get their hands dirty and get amongst it. Indeed, the island’s long sunny days are perfect for growing fruit and veg; there’s even ‘hedge veg’ where boxes are filled up with fresh produce – and an honesty jar for those wanting to buy one. Quirky, quaint and charming.

Perhaps the world-renowned Guernsey cow is the island’s most famous culinary bragging right. As a result of high butterfat and protein levels, they produce some of the richest and downright delicious dairy products on the planet. The milk from Guernsey cattle reputedly contains three times as much beneficial omega-3 as any other milk, anywhere, and has a unique golden hue. From creamy milk, butter and ice-cream in a plethora of flavours, not to mention award-winning cheeses, Guernsey is a lactose lovers dreams.

For those looking to learn as well as eat, taking a tour of Meadow Court Farm, one of Guernsey’s traditional dairy farms, is a must.

It’s not just the cows that are famous – Golden Guernsey goats that produce melt-in-the-mouth cheeses also call this island home. Owing to such a diverse natural larder, a thriving artisan industry exists. Make sure you try some of Guernsey’s specialities, including gâche. Pronounced gosh, this is a fruit loaf made for slathering with golden Guernsey butter. A bowl of Guernsey Bean Jar is another must-try; a local dish which has been around for hundreds of years and is a cassoulet-type bean affair. Delicious and indicative of the island’s cross-cultural cuisine.

A THRIVING RESTAURANT SCENE

Guernsey’s restaurant scene is thriving and with new restaurant openings all the time, dining out on the island is a fantastic foodie experience. The Island has everything; fine dining restaurants, clifftops cafes, Parisian-style bistros, country pubs and many a seafront, seafood restaurant.

Some of our favourites include The Auberge, Pier 17, Le Petit Bistro, Mora Restaurant & Grill and The Hook. But that’s just scratching the surface. Tintos, a tapas bar and fairly new addition to Guernsey, is further expanding the island’s culinary landscape here, with chefs trained by London heavyweight Jose Pizarro at the stoves.

SEAFRONT SUNDAYS & FOODIE FESTIVALS

In the summer months, the island hosts Seafront Sundays – in association with Taste Guernsey – every weekend at St Peter’s Port. The seafront gets pedestrianised and becomes a sea of market stalls selling all the fantastic produce that Guernsey has to offer. What’s more, alfresco dining spots pop up everywhere and there are cookery demonstrations and free tastings of traditional dishes.

Another fabulous foodie event is Tennerfest, held in autumn. During this time restaurants offer two and three course set menus for as little as £10 per head. It’s the ideal way to eat your way around Guernsey’s fantastic restaurant scene without burning a hole in your wallet. If you still need convincing, there’s also the Guernsey International Food Festival in September.

ST PETER PORT

Speaking of St Peter Port, it’s one of our favourite places on the island. This tiny, charming capital acts as the beating heart and lively hub of Guernsey. A focal point with a difference, with cute cobbled streets and a gorgeous seafront marina, it has a French bistro/cafe atmosphere and is a lovely place to spend the afternoon and evening, imbibing, eating and people watching.

A tradition in St Peter Port is afternoon tea at the historic Old Government House hotel tea, if the Anglophile in you has had enough of all the great French caffs. And if you need to walk off all that food, Candie Gardens is the perfect spot for strolling around and enjoying the lush green scenery.

10 IDEAL DESSERTS & SWEET TREATS TO TRY IN RUSSIA

Editorial Team
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10 IDEAL DESSERTS & SWEET TREATS TO TRY IN RUSSIA

If you ever find yourself in Russia, full of borscht, craving a sweet treat and at a loose end, we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 IDEAL sweet treats to try in Russia that are certain to sedate your sweet tooth.

VATRUSHKA

This traditional Russian pastry is one of the country’s oldest sweets and according to culinary history, is  believed to have been made by ancient Slavic tribes. A vatrushka is a round ring of dough traditionally filled with sweetened tvorog; a type of Russian cottage cheese. Cottage cheese in a sweet thing may sound strange, but yes, it totally works, especially when raisins or another type of dried fruit are added for flavour and textural fancy.

Vatrushka | © Steven Pavlov/ Wikicommons

KARTOSHKA

These humble no-bake cakes are one of the most famous Russian desserts. Dense, chocolatey and rich,  they came into being as a result of Soviet food shortages. A nifty way to use leftovers from cakes, cookies, toast and gingerbread, public cafes would roll the uneaten crumbs into small potato shaped balls and mix condensed milk and cocoa into the mixture. The result was kartoshka. These are not to be confused with actual potatoes – the word Kartoshka means potato – but a standalone treat named as such for their shape.

PTICHYE MOLOKO

Also known as ‘bird’s milk cake’, this is Russia’s famous souffle-like cake, so beloved that in the Soviet era, it was the first cake to be awarded a patent. Bird’s milk is an ancient Greek idiom which means ‘an unobtainable delicacy’, and this melt-in-your-mouth pud is a delicacy indeed, with an airy, light souffle base, meringue and a marshmallow-like middle, all sandwiched between sweet spongy layers.

Bird’s Milk Cake | © Aliska/ Wikicommons

CHAK CHAK

Like Rice Krispie cakes, but not like the stuff you and your ma used to make on a rainy afternoon, Chak-Chak is fashioned from deep-fried dough and completely drenched with hot honey syrup. This one originally came from Tatarstan, a federal subject of the Russian Federation.

SYRNIKI

Another dessert with cottage cheese. Surprising to British palates perhaps, but maybe our Eastern comrades what scoff at cheesecakes. Don’t knock it ‘till you’ve tried it, the lesson here, then. Syrniki are small cottage cheese pancakes that you’ll find all across Russia and Eastern Europe, served with jam and sometimes sour cream, they are enjoyed for breakfast or dessert – a most versatile and moresish treat, indeed.

Syrniki | © Yurii-mr/ Wikicommons

PASTILA

Loved in Imperial Russia and beyond, the pastila is a sweet made from whipped apples, eggs and sugar. Light and airy – some liken it to a marshmallow – it’s actually surprisingly healthy, using just a little light sugar and relying on the natural sweetness of the fruit.

MEDOVIK

Medovik is a soft and utterly scrumptious Russian honey cake, and could well be one of the best cakes you’ll ever taste. It’s certainly a favourite here at IDEAL. The cake has a history that dates back to the 1820’s, created by a personal chef for the wife of Russia’s Czar Alexander I – or so legend has it. This cake would have any Bake Off contestant in a sweet sweat – with layers of honey biscuit and tangy cream topped with crunchy walnuts, it’s a real showstopper.

Medovik |  © insatiablemunch/ WikiCommons

ALENKA CHOCOLATE

The English have Cadbury, America has Hershey and Russia has Alenka.   A legend of Russian confectionery, Alenka is the most recognised chocolate bar in the country and has been a favourite of many households for many generations. This milk chocolate  bar,creamy and rich in taste, features a little girl on the wrapper wearing a multicolored scarf around her head. First produced in 1966 following a Kremlin directive to make a new brand of milk chocolate, a competition was held to find the right packaging for this new sweet.  A photographer entered an image of his daughter, won, and became an iconic, household face. The rest is history.

SHARLOTKA CAKE

Wonderfully spongy and sweet, this cake-like apple dessert is wildly popular through Russia, and we can see why. In Soviet Russian households, when receiving ‘guests-at-the-doorstep’ – otherwise known as unexpected company – this cake was often knocked up. Quick and easy to make, all you need is to cut up some apples and make a simple cake mixture to pour over them, throw it in the oven and voila.

Shartoka |  © FlankerFF / WikiCommons

TULA PRYANIK (GINGERBREAD)

If you have a sweet tooth you can’t come to Russia without sampling Tula Pryanik – a type of imprinted Russian gingerbread decorated with sugary drawings. Dating back to the 17th Century and originating in the city of Tula, it’s probably the most famous Russian sweet of all. Although today the recipe for Tula Pryanik is widely known, back in the day there were lots of Tula Pryanik bakers and each had a secret recipe – incredibly long, complicated and closely guarded. These were exclusively passed to heirs, and survive in families to this day. There are various prints found on Tula gingerbread including holiday and personal greetings and also historical displays – gingerbread lasts for ages so it’s also the ideal souvenir.

 

 

5 IDEAL TIPS TO STOP YOUR OFFICE EATING LUNCH AT THEIR DESKS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS TO STOP YOUR OFFICE EATING LUNCH AT THEIR DESKS

We’ve all done it – attempted to eat that BLT sandwich whilst tapping out an email, at the same time as reading a report that’s been on your desk for 2 days. You finish your sandwich thinking you’re a role model for multitasking. In reality, half of the sandwich is on your keyboard and neither the report is read, or the email sent.

When you’re under pressure at work, eating lunch at your desk seems like a productive way to kill 2 birds with 1 stone. However, taking a break from your desk is essential in restoring energy levels and of course overall wellbeing. Not to mention better for our waistlines too. A recent American study of 5,000 employees, found that those who ate regularly at their desks were more likely to be obese.

Many underestimate the benefits of a quick break from the screen. Leaving your desk can be a great way to recharge, enabling you to be more productive when you return to your desk, reducing the chance of stress and burnout. So as a nation, why do we love to dine ‘al desko’?

To combat employees regularly missing out on a lunch break and how to promote the importance of stepping away from the screen, we’ve asked the wellbeing experts at CABA  to share 5 IDEAL tips to help stop your office eating lunch at their desks.

LEAD BY EXAMPLE

If your employees see you working through lunch, they may feel like this is expected of them too. Make a point of letting your team know it’s okay and expected that they take a lunch break. Research carried out by CBA suggests office workers fear judgement from their peers and senior management. So, it’s essential that managers set a precedent for their employees, creating a workplace culture where staff feel comfortable to leave their desk for lunch.

ENCOURAGE TEAM LUNCHES

A great opportunity for your team to get to know each other away from the desk and work chatter. Suggest a team lunch every week or in the summer, make the most of the warmer weather and take a picnic outside

LUNCH AND LEARNS

It’s still work but combining lunch with learning a new skill as a team could be a way to encourage food free desks every week or month. These can easily be run and hosted by your team with no need to bring in external trainers.  By utilising staff to run these sessions you’re also giving team members the chance to upskill and practise their presentation skills too. Just make sure the topic is fairly light, so staff don’t feel drained after. Aim for a short and engaging 30-minute session

CREATE A DESIGNATED DINING AND DOWNTIME AREA

We’re not suggesting you create a canteen but just an area that invites colleagues to take a break. This could include a picnic bench, or table and chairs, soft lighting, comfy chairs and things that provide distractions from phones and screens such as magazines and newspapers. Encourage your employees to relax away from the glaring screen of a monitor or laptop

FOOD FREE DESKS

If you’ve tried all the above and are still struggling to notice a shift in culture, then banning food being eaten at desks is an option, albeit an extreme one. You could still allow ‘light’ snacks but ask everyone to respect your policy and take lunch elsewhere. It’s probably better for our health considering the average desk contains 400 times more germs than a toilet seat anyway. Gross.

6 IDEAL TIPS FOR CREATING CHOCOLATE TREATS AT HOME

Editorial Team
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6 IDEAL TIPS FOR CREATING CHOCOLATE TREATS AT HOME

From delicate truffles to crunchy chocolate biscuits, cocoa-centric treats are the ultimate guilty pleasure. While chocolate cakes, mousses and cheesecakes are common dinner party desserts, cooking with cocoa is notoriously tricky and remains a skill many of us are yet to fully master.

Fortunately, for those tired of reluctantly pouring away thick, lumpy bowls of chocolate, Ellen de Jager, Head Pastry Chef at Michelin starred Bohemia Restaurant, is on hand to solve the cocoa-conundrum once and for all.  Ellen lends her top tips for making your own chocolate creations at home.

Start from scratch

To make your own raw chocolate, the essentials you’ll need are grated cocoa butter, coconut oil, raw organic cocoa powder and agave syrup. Place the grated cocoa butter and coconut oil in a small, heat-safe bowl. Then place the bowl in a shallow pan containing a small amount of warm water stirring occasionally. Lastly, add the dry ingredients and place the chocolate in the freezer for 30 minutes.

Feel the heat

If making raw chocolate is a step too far, you might wish to simply melt shop bought chocolate in order to make your own unique cocoa treats. Ensure you cut the bar into even squares. This means the chocolate will all melt at an equal speed.

Steer clear of the wooden spoon

As tempting as it may be, stay away from wooden spoons when stirring chocolate, as they retain odor and moisture which will ruin the chocolate. Seizing is a common problem when melting chocolate, so it’s essential to eliminate any chance of the chocolate coming into contact with water. Always make sure the bowls and utensils you use are perfectly dry. 

Glorious ganache  

Believe it or not, chocolates can be seasonal too. A fruity chocolate ganache is a perfect addition to your after dinner treat. We serve a selection to our Bohemia diners every evening. For making these at home, combine heavy cream and liquidized, boiled fruit then stir in melted milk chocolate before adding softened butter. In terms of flavours, our seasonal summer berry and exotic fruit ganaches are extremely popular. I particularly love our apricot, lime and peach flavours!  

Finishing touch  

A splash of colour can turn your creation from mundane to magical in minutes. At Bohemia, we recently created a stunning ‘Lost Treasure of Easter’ sculpture at Bohemia, which took five days to make and we used about 25kg of chocolate. This involved lots of cocoa butter colouring. If you want to try yourself, you can buy coloured cocoa butter in a can from most cookery shops. Ensure you keep your batch of chocolates at an even distance from the aerosole can when spraying, to ensure the colour is a continuous shade throughout.

Watch the clock  

Timing is key when working with chocolate. Only leave it in the refrigerator until set – no longer as overly chilled chocolate can create problems. When removing your chocolate from the fridge, it’s important to keep your hands off the surface as finger prints can easily make a mark.

10 IDEAL WAYS NOT TO LET THE HEAT SOAK UP YOUR WATER BILL

Editorial Team
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10 IDEAL WAYS NOT TO LET THE HEAT SOAK UP YOUR WATER BILL

During the heatwave, it’s no surprise that we’re using more water to keep cool and stay hydrated. The average person uses 150 litres of water a day, of which only 4% is for drinking purposes, but taking simple steps can ensure the hot weather doesn’t soak up your water bill. Moreover, by making the water you use more effective, it ultimately benefits the planet too. So with the help of Tom Robertson, CEO of Save Water Save Money, here are 10 IDEAL ways not to let the heat soak up your water bill.

ANALYSE YOUR HOUSEHOLD INSURANCE

In order to know where you can cut down on wastage and make the water you use more efficient, you’ll need to work out exactly how much water your household is currently using. Free digital tools such as the aqKWa Savings Engine will analyse your water usage and give you personalised advice in just a few minutes, helping you cut down your bill in no time. Over 200,000 households have used the engine, saving on average £88 a year.

TURN THE TAP OFF WHEN YOUR BRUSH YOUR TEETH

A running tap can use six litres of water a minute. By turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, a family of four could save up to £50 on metered water bills, as well as 17,520 litres of water per year.

CUT A MINUTE OFF YOUR SHOWER TIME

Cutting a minute off your shower time could save £15 in energy bills, and a further £15 in water bills (metered), per person per year, or £120 saved a year for an average four-person household

INVEST IN A WATER SAVING KIT

There are a range of gadgets out there, available for free from your water provider that will help to cut down your water usage. A typical five item Water Saving Kit, which includes a ShowerSave, ShowerTimer, ToothyTimer, Tap Inserts and Save A Flush bag, will save a household on average £110 per year, on water and energy bills, and over 37,000 litres of water.

WASH A FULL LOAD

When using a dishwasher or washing machine, make sure you wash with a full load. A washing machine can use around 45 litres of water per cycle, so only using it when it’s full will help to cut down on your water usage, and ultimately your bill.

FIX DRIPPING TAPS

A dripping tap can waste more than 5,500 litres of water a year, so make sure your taps are properly turned off and if any are leaking, then arrange for them to be fixed. It would save you £15.95 per year.

USE A WASHING BOWL

Using a washing up bowl to wash plates or cutlery twice a day, rather than having the hot tap running, could save around £30 a year on gas and electric

OPT FOR A BUCKET AND SPONGE

A hose pipe or sprinkler can use up to 1,000 litres of water an hour, so opting for a bucket and sponge to wash the car, or using a watering can to nourish your plants will have a profound effect on your water usage.

CHANGE YOUR SHOWER HEAD

Fitting a water saving showerhead alone will save an average 30 litres of water per household per day, totaling £40 per year on metered water and energy bills

INSTALL A FLUSH SAVER BAG

Installing a flush saver bag in your toilet cistern will save an average of 13 litres of water per day, or more than 4,670 litres per year (£13.50 per year). They’re quick and easy to install and can be obtained for free from your water provider.

10 IDEAL CREAM TEA ETIQUETTE TIPS

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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10 IDEAL CREAM TEA ETIQUETTE TIPS

The age old question of whether jam or cream should be put on a scone first leaves the country divided over one of its favourite pastimes. The Devonshire method dictates that you should smother a scone in cream before adding jam, while the Cornish method suggests jam should be applied first. To help put this debate to bed, with the help of The Cream Tea Society here are 10 IDEAL cream tea etiquette tips we should all be following.

LOOSE-LEAF IS BEST

Brew loose leaves in a teapot, but remember to serve a second pot of hot water – just in case you’ve over-brewed.

IF YOU DON’T WANT TO POUR, DON’T SIT NEAR THE POT

The person nearest the pot should pour for everyone (if you’re clumsy, best make sure it’s not you).

THE THREE MINUTE RULE

Allow the tea to brew for at least three minutes before pouring – time enough for the full flavour to infuse.

ALWAYS TEA BEFORE MILK

Pour the tea first, followed by milk (so you can accurately judge the required strength) and then sugar.

SPOONS ON SAUCERS 

Once you’ve stirred, place your spoon on your saucer (think of the table cloth).

NO OUTSTRETCHED PINKIES

Always hold the cup between your thumb and forefinger. Contrary to popular opinion, sticking your little finger out does not a lady/gentleman make.

SIMPLY BREAK APART 

The perfect scone should break apart with a simple twist!  Just make sure you’ve got your saucer to catch the crumbs.

SPOON THEN SPREAD

If the table is laden with bowls of jam and cream, spoon your desired amount onto your plate first, before spreading them thick on your scone.

JAM BEFORE CREAM

While there’s much debate around which goes first (a dispute dividing Cornwall and Devon), etiquette gurus Debrett’s say you should spread your jam before dolloping cream on top.

SAY NO TO WHIPPED

Never use whipped cream. It’s utterly improper.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR REPURPOSING FAMILY HEIRLOOM JEWELLERY

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR REPURPOSING FAMILY HEIRLOOM JEWELLERY

From your great aunt’s antique brooch to your grandmother’s pearl earrings, we’ve all got a hand-me-down or two gathering dust somewhere. Too sentimentally attached and full of family memories to give away, but not current enough to be in your collection, pieces like this languish at the bottom of your jewellery box or turn to rust in your dresser drawers much more than they’re actually worn.

But it shouldn’t be this way. Heirloom pieces carry precious memories and emotions and shouldn’t be forgotten or discarded. Jewellery is meant to be shown off, so give your sentimental items a second life with these 5 IDEAL tips for repurposing family heirloom jewellery.

TURN IT INTO SOMETHING NEW

Turn your heirloom piece into a beautiful new creation that you’ll love to wear not just once, but time and time again. It’s a great way to honour past pieces, giving them new life and meaning. Gold can be melted down, silver repurposed, and diamonds and gemstones salvaged and fashioned into a new orientation. The possibilities of refashioning heirloom pieces are endless.

However, take caution if you’re thinking about turning it into an ‘en vogue’ item like stackable rings. Trends like this may not stand the test of time and repurposing jewellery isn’t always cheap. If you’re not sure, ask a jeweller for some ideas on how to turn it into a piece that will have an assured, enduring style.

MAKE SEVERAL HEIRLOOMS

When you have a cherished piece that’s been passed down the generations, it’s hard to know who to then pass it on to after you. Showing favouritism is never a good move as it can cause resententment and arguments between family members.

The answer, then, is to turn it into several pieces of jewellery. Respected jewellers like The Diamond Mansion provide a fantastic service in which they recycle old, cherished jewellery, creating new designs. They’re also adept at fashioning bespoke children’s jewellery for special occasions.

REIMAGINE IT

By all means turn those old art deco pendants into a beautiful bracelet if you want to, but don’t think that you have to completely change the piece when you’re repurposing it. Instead, ask; are there any outdated elements that can be easily taken away or refashioned to create a more modern look? Sometimes less is more and keeping true to the original design is a great way to honour the past.

GET AN APPRAISAL

Before giving your heirloom a makeover, first take it to a jeweller and get an appraisal. The piece could be worth more than you anticipated and repurposing it could whittle away most of its value. Before doing anything drastic, it’s sensible to check any item’s value.

DON’T TO ANYTHING AT ALL

Sometimes an item can hold so much meaning that it deserves respect. Jewellery with sentimental value has an intrinsic, unquantifiable worth which is impossible to put a price on.

If you’re going to take away serious value from the piece for future generations, it may not be worth changing it.

If you’re torn between repurposing it and feelings of guilt, then it’s probably best to do nothing with it at all. Just appreciate the piece in all its outdated glory, and you never know – trends are so cyclical that it might be right back in fashion before you know it.

5 IDEAL SPA TREATMENTS IF YOU’RE IN THE MOOD FOR SOMETHING UNUSUAL

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5 IDEAL SPA TREATMENTS IF YOU’RE IN THE MOOD FOR SOMETHING UNUSUAL

The rise of social media has given us a bigger window into the lives of our favourite stars than ever before. Through platforms like Instagram and Snapchat, we’re privy to everything the A-list get up to, from sharing their premium parties and their workouts, to dress fittings and even how they stay looking so fabulous. Indeed, many celebrities — including social media icon Kim Kardashian — have shared videos and snaps of their spa sessions — and it isn’t all back massages and pedicures!

It seems that the A-list will go to great lengths to de-stress and refresh, giving rise to increasingly unusual spa treatments, some of which sound completely bizarre, that is unless being slathered in animal excrement sounds normal to you.

With the help of The Waterfront Hotel who offer spa breaks in Bedfordshire we’ve looked at some of the most weird and whacky spa treatments out there. Here’s 5 IDEAL spa treatments if you’re in the mood for something unusual. 

VAMPIRE FACIAL

When Kim Kardashian shared a photo of her blood-covered face, you’d be forgiven for thinking she was dressing up for Halloween or perhaps on the set of a new horror movie. Unfortunately, you’d be wrong — Kim shared the snap shortly after having a vampire facial, a treatment which involves drawing the blood from elsewhere in the body, separating out the platelets and injecting it back into the face.

The process is believed to help with anti-aging, as the platelet plasma that is injected supposedly stimulates the surrounding cells causing them to plump up and increase in volume. The result is reduced wrinkles and fine lines.

GEISHA FACIAL

No, this isn’t simply a treatment given to you by a woman with a white face, red lips and and elaborate hairstyle. While the Geisha facial may seem like a delicate and sophisticated by name, it is nothing of the sort. Victoria  Beckham is rumoured to be a fan of this unusual treatment, whereby faeces from the Japanese nightingale is collected, dried under UV lights and combined with rice bran and water. The resulting mixture is applied to the face and is said to have exfoliating and purifying qualities than can leave skin looking refreshed. The treatment was first used in 17th century Japan by geishas, hence the name.

BANYA

Emerging from Russia, a Russian banya is similar to a sauna, although it is usually at a lower temperature and features a higher level of super-hot steam. The steam is created by pouring high volumes of water on cast iron that has been heated to 700°C. It causes the body to sweat and therefore supports detoxification.

It’s far from your standard sauna visit. After you’ve sweated a lot, you’ll receive the Parenie, a treatment which uses hot venik. This fragrant bunch of birch, oak and eucalyptus twigs is used to gently hit, stroke and fan you, releasing essential oils, boosting blood circulation and reducing stress and tension.

To finish — and cool down after being exposed to all that steam — you’ll dip into an ice-cold plunge pool to close your pores. According to one Banya website, celebrities including Justin Bieber and Kate Moss are fans!

LEECH THERAPY

This next beauty treatment is not for the squeamish. Leech therapy involves applying leeches to the body and allowing them to suck the blood. It is believed that, while the leeches are sucking on your blood, they’re also injecting a number of bioactive peptides into your body which some believe can support anti-acing. However, many healthcare professionals have contested the effectiveness of this treatment. Despite this, it has been used by both Demi Moore and Miranda Kerr.

 

 

6 TIPS TO HELP YOU PLAN THE IDEAL ROMANTIC GETAWAY

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6 TIPS TO HELP YOU PLAN THE IDEAL ROMANTIC GETAWAY

There is nothing better in this world than travelling with the love of your life. Genuinely. You can experience new things together, create lifelong memories and heat up a romance which England has done its grey and rainy best to dampen. Whether you decide to go full far flung or simply take a shorter break somewhere closer to home, the romance of a trip is truly what you make of it. So make it special with these 5 tips to help you plan the IDEAL romantic getaway.

SET A BUDGET 

There’s no passion-killer quite like worrying about money. Indeed, one of the main reasons for arguing on holiday is a perceived discrepancy between thrift and frivolousness. Accordingly, the first thing that you need to consider when planning a getaway is your budget. Doing so will avoid those squabbles and flare ups which can ruin the romance in a flash. 

CHOOSE A LOCATION SPECIAL TO YOU

There are so many great holiday destinations in this world waiting for you that the grip of stage fright when selecting one can be overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to opt for somewhere tried’n’tested, where romance between you has previously blossomed. Sometimes a little nostalgia trip between couples is reassuring and exciting in equal measure. Alternatively, trying a track unexplored, unheard of and unbeaten offers its own kick. It’s all up to you – the key is choosing your destination wisely.

GO IN THE OFFSEASON

Going away during the offseason obviously has its risks; from the less than desirable average rainfall to sunshine ratios to restaurants so empty that you end up sharing your date with the waitstaff. But, heading somewhere at an unconventional time of year also has its perks. First of all, you’ll be able to save lots of money as stuff tends to be cheaper. You’ll also be able to switch locations with greater speed and swiftness, since throngs of tourists won’t be blocking your every move. This level of seclusion and serenity is certainly conducive to canoodlin’, we think. 

DO A DIGITAL DETOX

If you’re gonna have your eyes on your phone the whole time, then location is kinda irrelevant, right? Flicking through shots of friends in exotic locations on Instagram whilst you fail to look up and appreciate the one you’re in could be the modern definition of irony. Why not make the most of your holiday and get under the skin and amongst the culture of a place? Give your phone a break and have a digital detox; you’ll be amazed at what we can do with our hands when they’re not clicking and swiping.

PLAN A FEW SURPRISES

If you’re in charge of organising the getaway, slip in a few surprises for your partner. Dare to be original and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, the greater effort usually yields the greatest reward. Throw caution to the wind; as this is a ‘romantic’ getaway, the sexier the better, and as such there are so many great little surprises that you can plan for you and your partner. If you want to get some inspiration, visit Passion Sense just make sure you clear that history if you want to keep the suspense genuine!

KEEP IT A SECRET

An idyllic concept, sure, and one rendered almost obsolete by those pesky smartphones we’ve already demonised. But treating the trip as though you’re eloping can add a sense of thrill and rebellion to your getaway.  Indeed, there’s something wonderful about going away with your partner and not telling everyone where you are going or when you are coming back. And maybe, if all goes to plan, you never will…..

6 IDEAL TIPS FOR THROWING AN EPIC OLD-SCHOOL SLEEPOVER PARTY

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6 IDEAL TIPS FOR THROWING AN EPIC OLD-SCHOOL SLEEPOVER PARTY

Remember playing truth or dare, hair braiding and making friendship bracelets? Sleepovers we’re just one of the things that made the 90’s so great. Getting together with a gaggle of girls for a night of giggles and prancing around till the early hours of the morning was one of the best parts of our teenage years.

As far as we’re concerned, you’re never too old to have a sleepover party and they needn’t be a thing of the past. A good-old fashioned slumber party is a fantastic way to have a break from the daily grind of adult life and a way to spend some quality time with friends – something that gets harder to do when working overtime, marriage and parenting become the norm. So take a stroll down memory lane, don your favourite pyjamas and follow these 6 IDEAL tips for throwing an epic old-school sleepover party.

THE ENTERTAINMENT

Watching movies at a slumber party is non-negotiable. Back in the day you had to rent a film from the local video shop (remember VHS tapes?) or buy one from HMV and persuade your mum to let you watch an 18. You couldn’t simply download a film or stream it, but times, thankfully, have changed. We now have the power of Netflix, Amazon and all those other streaming sites, so it’s easier than ever to binge watch romcoms and cult classic 90’s movie like Clueless or Cruel Intentions. Movies aside, entertainment wise old school games like ‘Never Have I Ever,’ ‘Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board’ (remember The Craft?) and of course ‘Truth or Dare’ are obligatory.

UNPLUG

The word ‘wifi’ wasn’t in anyone’s vocabulary back then. If you were one of those kids lucky enough to have a Nokia, you’ll know that the only thing you could do on your mobile phone, other than make calls and send texts, was to play snake. For an authentic sleepover, only use the wifi for the aforementioned streaming. Time should be filled with gossip, not everyone gawping at individual screens. Of course you can still have your phone on to call boys – another thing that always happened.

MIDNIGHT SNACKS

No sleepover party would be complete without loading up on junk food.  Naturally, a delivery of Domino’s pizza is a must (one of the only time and places for this type of pizza). Every slumber party worth its popcorn needs lots and lots of snacks. Think bags of Doritos and Cheetos, Pop Tarts, strawberry laces and old school American Sweets. Just remember to do some extra exercise the following week – unfortunately our metabolism isn’t what it was as a teenager.

DON’T FORGET THE CHOREOGRAPHED DANCE

Remember reanacting all the Spice Girls videos with hairbrushes as make-believe micorphones? Or perhaps learning all the cheer dances from Bring It On was more your thing? Every sleepover party had some form of choreographed dance, where you would dance on the bed and around the coffee table, so be sure to make that a focal point of the evening.

BOOZE (YOU’RE ADULTS NOW)

You’re adults now. No longer do you have to raid your parents liquor cabinet, then top up the half empty vodka bottle with water. Concoct your own cocktails, make your own margaritas or go old school with malibu and coke mixers. Whatever you’re sleepover tipple of choice, a bit of booze will help make reenacting those Spice Girls dance moves more fun and even less cringeworthy.

GIVE EACHOTHER A MAKEOVER & PAMPER

Doesn’t a night of lounging around in pyjamas and doing some much needed pampering sound great? Share your best makeup tips, cover your face with green goo and cucumber slices and give each other a manicure. You could even go crazy and paint each nail a different colour or be really wild and break out the glitter nail polish, just like the old days.

4 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE A THEME FOR YOUR ONLINE STORE

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4 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE A THEME FOR YOUR ONLINE STORE

Whether you’re selling fisherman’s hooks or lovely lingerie, any online store should be designed to address a singular question – should a customer purchase a product here or is it better to look elsewhere? Yep, it’s all about the customer. Even if you are offering a truly revolutionary service, clients will fail to appreciate its importance if your site’s not designed with their interests in mind. However, with so many ‘shop templates’ out there, it’s pretty impossible to determine the best theme to use when creating an online shop where customers will want to part with their pennies. With this in mind, here are 4 IDEAL tips on how to choose a theme for your online store.

IT’S ALL ABOUT SIMPLICITY

This is the most important point, so it is only logical that it should be mentioned first. In terms of website engagement, 55 per cent of all visitors will spend less than 15 seconds on a page when searching for a specific option such as a checkout link. If your pages are not designed in an easy-to-navigate manner, you could easily lose a sale before it has even taken hold. A clean and simple layout is far more beneficial than one which bombards the visitor with excessive information and requests.

TEMPLATES TO MATCH YOUR BRAND IDENTITY

A free web store should always silently echo the core qualities of your brand. This includes features such as the font, the background colours and the overall visual tone of the page. For example, a store selling organic food products could make use of a traditional typeface and “warm” tones such as oranges, reds and greens. A site advertising financial services might instead opt for bold lettering and muted hues in order to represent a clear and straightforward approach. Humans respond to visual cues just as much as they resonate with quality content, so consider what they see as much as what you say.

UTILISE MOBILE-RESPONSIVE PLATFORMS 

The huge majority of consumers now choose to access the Internet via a smartphone. Mobile-responsive templates are therefore decisive if you hope to reach the widest audience possible. This essentially signifies that all pages will appear similar regardless of the type of device being used. This is also critical in terms of secure connections and streamlined point of sale pages. The good news is that major providers such as Shopify have included mobile responsiveness as a standard feature within all of their templates.

OFFER IMMEDIATE SUPPORT

There are inevitably instances when a customer will need to contact a representative. Any template should automatically offer a section linked to a help page or a “contact us” widget. Live chat, a dedicated email and a page devoted to frequently asked questions are three common examples and ideally, all should be made available with a single click.

Selecting a quality template for your online business will enhance the visual and functional appeal of the entire website. Thankfully, there are hundreds of different designs and configurations to choose from. Each can be implemented in no time at all and such a user-friendly edge is perfectly suited for those who do not have the time to manually build a portal from the ground up.

7 IDEAL WAYS TO BRIGHTEN YOUR MOOD WHEN IT’S RAINING

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7 IDEAL WAYS TO BRIGHTEN YOUR MOOD WHEN IT’S RAINING

When it’s grey and gloomy outside, it can be hard to motivate yourself to do anything. Indeed, looking outside and seeing rain lashing against the window rarely puts people in a good mood, but can gloomy weather really brings us down? The answer, quite simply, is yes.

If you feel the onset of low mood on a dreary day, it’s not your imagination. Research has shown that when it’s dark and miserable outside, it has a negative effect on your mood and emotions. A lowering of moods during winter has apparently been recorded as far back as 1845. Now named seasonal affective disorder (SAD), the condition is a type of depression that happens to sufferers at certain times of the year — most notably autumn and winter.

So what can you do if your mood starts to drop when the weather outside is frightful? Here are 7 IDEAL ways to brighten your mood when it’s raining.

SPEND TIME WITH YOUR FRIENDS

Rain negatively affects our social lives and according to experts, can risk leaving us feeling isolated, frustrated and downbeat. If it’s raining heavily and consistently, we’re more inclined to cancel plans to physically meet our friends and family, or have them cancel on us, which could leave to a less fulfilled social life.

Human contact is fundamental to our mental well-being; without it, a number of pathologies including depression and social anxiety can affect us. So next time it’s raining, make plans to meet up with your friends and family, somewhere safe, warm and indoors. Hypnotherapy for depression has also been shown to help with those trying to cope with low mood issues relating to seasonal changes.

GET IN THE KITCHEN

Speaking of spending time with friends, why not invite them over and cook up a storm. There are so many benefits to cooking for yourself and others; cooking is therapeutic and good for the soul as well as the taste buds. Moreover, preparing a meal for others makes us feel happy and connected, which does wonders for our mood. There’s also an element of self care in cooking. When you cook good food for yourself, you’re nourishing your mind and body and a sense of purpose and pride is restored.

LIGHT A CANDLE

Dips and deviations in mood because of the rain can potentially be addressed through the  healing properties of smell. Simply lighting a candle or burning an essential oil is one way to transform your mood almost instantly; taking in an aroma can can affect you in 3-7 minutes, working on both an emotional and physical level.

Wondering what candle to burn? If you want a boost of energy and, erm, zest, the smell of citrus fruit has been shown to do this. Want to feel relaxed? Candles of jasmine and lavender offer a wonderfully soothing scent that have calming properties, perfect to help you unwind. Or if you want to invoke those feelings of the warmth and togetherness that come with festive period, the aroma of pine elicits those Christmassy emotions.

EXERCISE INDOORS

Did you know that rain can actually cause pain? We’re not joking. When it rains the reduction in atmospheric pressure means bodily fluids can move from blood vessels to tissues, causing pressure on the nerves and joints. This can lead to increased pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.  The answer? Exercise more. Not only will your body thank you for it but, as mental health organisation Mind state, getting exercise is a contributor to sound mental health and can boost your mood no end.

If the rain really is appalling and you can’t face getting wet on the way to the gym or running outside, try an exercise DVD or simply climbing and descending the stairs repeatedly. Anything that gets the heart pumping indoors is better than wallowing around in inactivity-induced self pity.

GET COSY

If you’re going to light a candle you may as well go the whole hog and make your home as cosy as can be. Take a leaf out of the Dane’s book and embrace the concept of Hygge (or Mysig in Swedish). This is all about being kind to yourself, spending quality time, creating a sense of warmth and cosiness, enjoying little indulgences and taking pleasure in the simple things. As well as creating a cosy environment, do things that make you happy, such as having dinner with family, enjoying cake, relaxing in a hot bath with candles, or snuggling on the sofa with a good book and hot drink.

MAKE YOUR OWN GLOW

Natural daylight lamps extend exposure to light during the darker, rainy months and are a worthwhile investment, lifting your mood and providing mental and physical benefits that can counter Seasonal Affective Disorder. Studies have also shown that the warming and calming glow of a fire reduces blood pressure and stress levels, providing a quick-fix feel-good factor when it’s rainy and gloomy outside.

THINK OF RAIN DIFFERENTLY

Why not try looking at rain in a different, altogether brighter light? Sound therapists believe that the sound of rain has a healing, calming effect on us. As such, the sound of gentle rain can stir feelings of peace and tranquility and light rain can even lull you to sleep – science says so.

So instead of getting annoyed at the gloomy, miserable weather that usually goes hand-in-hand with precipitation, instead listen to the soothing sound of rain against the windows – embracing this downtime for a calmer, happier you. Or if you want to do something a little more active, why not pick up a sudoku. According to one study, the sound of rain can actually boost concentration and your arithmetic ability.

 

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