Page 322 – Ideal Magazine

IDEAL FOR SUMMER: STRAWBERRY, ELDERFLOWER & MINT PAVLOVA

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM

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June 22, 2018

IDEAL FOR SUMMER: STRAWBERRY, ELDERFLOWER & MINT PAVLOVA

You may have seen that last week the Telegraph reported that reduced price strawberries have been flooding supermarket aisles across the country because the spring weather has led to a ‘giant crop’ of bigger, juicier and sweeter strawberries than usual. We have the perfect solution for using up those excess strawberries – make this sensationally sweet strawberry, elderflower and mint pavlova.

RECIPE INFO

Vegetarian
Gluten Free
Preparation time:20 minutes, plus macerating and cooling
Cooking time:1 hour
Total time:1 hour 20 minutes, plus macerating and cooling
Serves: 8

INGREDIENTS

4 Free Range Egg whites
1 lime, juice
200g caster sugar
400g pack British Strawberries, halved
5 tbsp Bottlegreen Elderflower Cordial
Small handful mint leaves, shredded, plus a few leaves to decorate
150ml double cream
150g Greek yogurt

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 150˚C, gas mark 2. Draw a 20cm circle on parchment; place upside-down on a baking tray. Using electric beaters, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt and a few drops of lime juice. Start slowly then turn up the speed and beat to firm-ish peaks.

2. Beat in the sugar in 3 additions, combining completely between each, to a stiff and glossy meringue. Pile onto the parchment inside the 20cm circle and use the back of the spoon to make a dip in the middle. Put in the oven, lower the heat to 120˚C, gas mark ½, and bake for 1 hour. Once baked, turn the oven off, prop the door open and cool completely (around 2 hours).

3. Meanwhile, mix together the strawberries, 2 tbsp cordial and the remaining lime juice. Macerate for 30 minutes, then stir through the shredded mint. Using a balloon whisk, whip the cream to soft peaks. In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt with the remaining 3 tbsp elderflower cordial. Fold the yogurt into the cream, then pile onto the cooled meringue. Top with the strawberry mixture, spooning over any extra juices, and decorate with a few whole mint leaves.

COOKS TIP

Using half cream and half yogurt in the filling makes this summery dessert a little lighter.

Images and recipes courtesy of Waitrose.com/Summer

5 TIPS FOR MAKING THE IDEAL VICTORIA SPONGE CAKE

Uncategorized

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June 22, 2018

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5 TIPS FOR MAKING THE IDEAL VICTORIA SPONGE CAKE

Who doesn’t love a Victoria sponge cake? Best enjoyed with a cup of tea, it’s a baking classic and a tasty tea-time treat. The original late 19th century recipe by Mrs Beeton has survived two World Wars and now stands as an art form in-itself; the Women’s Institute offers rosettes to whose sponges that pass their high-standards of baking.

So how do you make the perfect Victoria Sponge? We asked Betty Blythe’s own Founder, the UK’s no.1 expert on Street Parties and author of Style Me Vintage Tea Parties, Lulu Gwynne, how to whip up the perfect rosette-earning Victoria sponge cake that could put Paul Hollywood to shame. Here’s her 5 tips for making the IDEAL Victoria Sponge cake.

PREPARATION IS KEY

Before you begin mixing, weigh out your ingredients so that when you come to start cooking, you’ll be able to work quickly. Every baker’s worst nightmare when it comes to cooking Victoria Sponge is leaving the cake mixture too long, losing its air! Prep will help prevent you from over-mixing the cake, too. My Aunt Blom’s secret tip? Use self-raising flour with a teaspoon of baking powder for an extra-high and light sponge.

KEEP THE INGREDIENTS THE SAME TEMPERATURE

Like Goldilocks, your ingredients should be just right. Slightly warm eggs
don’t hold the same volume of air as chilled eggs, so keeping your ingredients at room temperature is a major save. But butter or baking spread should be slightly warmer than everything else to keep it soft but still holding together. Too cold and it won’t blend with the sugar and eggs, too warm and it’ll be oily.

ALWAYS SIFT THE FLOUR

Always. Sift. The. Flour – sifting adds air and makes your Victoria sponge even lighter and fluffier. If you use the freshest eggs you can find, the whites will whip up into a frenzy of air. When you whisk the whites with the sugar, whisk until it’s white; that’s a tell-tell sigh that the mix is plump with air.

PREHEAT THE OVEN

if you don’t preheat the oven beforehand, you might not get the best results from your sponge. While baking, preheat the oven to a toasty 180C/350F. Line the cake tin bottom with greaseproof or parchment paper for best results.

GO GOLD

Pale golden brown is a winner. Indeed, the best way to know when the Victoria sponge is ready is that it goes a pale golden- brown colour. When you put your finger in the middle and press gently, it should feel firm. Using a knife, slide around the edge of the tin to release the cake. After taking it out of the oven, place the cake on a wire rack to cool but never put the cake in a tin warm as it might go mouldy! You’ll be the Mary Berry of your friends with this intel.

Image: Victoria Sponge in The Tea Cosy | © Matt Biddulph

12 IDEAL TIPS FOR QUEUING AT WIMBLEDON THIS YEAR

Editorial Team

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June 22, 2018

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12 IDEAL TIPS FOR QUEUING AT WIMBLEDON THIS YEAR

Queuing is what us Brits do best, and what’s more British an event than Wimbledon to form a line for? To increase your chances of getting your hands on the much sought after court tickets and to minimise the pain of a drawn out morning wait, you’d be at an advantage (pun intended) if you camp.

Almost 7,000 tennis fans made #TheQueue for opening day last year (and yes, even the tents are pitched in an orderly line), so it’s advisable to get there early to ensure a place at the front.

To ensure Wimbledon queuers get the best from #TheQueue experience this year, here’s 12 IDEAL tips for queing at Wimbledon this year, courtesy of our friends at premium mattress brand TEMPUR.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT STATION

The Queue entrance is a five minute walk down Wimbledon Park Road from Southfields tube station; don’t go to Wimbledon or Wimbledon Park if you want to avoid a longer journey laden with camping gear. You can view the Wimbledon Queue map here.

GET THERE EARLY

Early birds will arrive up to 40 hours before the first matches. For Centre Court or Court 1 you need to ideally be among the first 1,000 to guarantee your ticket. Last year there were 400 people already queuing by 8am on the Sunday.

WAIT FOR THE QUEUE CARD AND KEEP IT SAFE

You may have to wait some time in the queue before you receive the queue card, however, don’t be tempted to leave until you have it safely stashed away. It is the only thing that registers your place in the line and entitles you to get your tickets. Once you have been issued a queue card, it’ll allow you to pop away from camp to stretch your legs, buyfood, nip to the pub, or visit fellow queuers.

BRING THE RIGHT SIZED TENT

Whilst it’s a great experience to be a part of, it’s not a party, so don’t bring a family sized tent or you won’t be able to pitch it… Tent size is restricted to two person tents only.

PREPARE FOR ALL WEATHERS

It’s July but it is England. Pack sun protection, sunglasses and shorts, but also waterproofs, and don’t forget fleeces, socks and blankets to make sure you get through the chilly night comfortably.

OTHER PACKING ESSENTIALS

Torch (for night time toilet visits), small bag of toiletries and hand towel, wellies if it’s due to rain, compact picnic blanket, pack of cards, wireless phone charger.

ALCOHOL

Cans of G&T, Pimms or Prosecco are a packing essential, but this is Wimbledon and it’s civilised so don’t overdo it, as 1), drunk and disorderly behaviour is not tolerated and 2), you’re only allowed one bottle of wine or two 500 ml cans per person once you get into the grounds.

MEALS IN #THEQUEUE

Once you have your queue card, you can mosey off to get food, but temporary absences from your place in The Queue are restricted to 30 minutes, so it’s advisable to bring a picnic. You can also order a delivery, but make sure it arrives at the at the Wimbledon Park Road gate by 10pm. And don’t forget to pack supplies for breakfast!

THE RULES

There are rules to abide by, including no BBQs, no loud music, no smoking or vaping and no anti-social or drunken behaviour. This is a very British queue after all… See here for the Wimbledon Queue full Code of Conduct.

TAKE CASH

Cards are not accepted for the queue-on-the-day tickets.

BANNED ITEMS

Beware of banned items once in the grounds. Leave the selfie sticks, Tees brandishing political slogans, flasks and big camera lenses behind. You can find a full list of prohibited items here.

PREPARE FOR AN EARLY START

Get an early night (stewards will be ushering you to bed around 10pm). Make sure you have all you need to get a good night’s rest – ear plugs, travel pillow, warm bedding – and prepare for an early start. Many are packing up their tents from as early as 5am and if the noise doesn’t wake you, you’ll be woken by the stewards at around 6am.

5 IDEAL PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS OF KISSING

Wellbeing

Editorial Team

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June 22, 2018

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5 IDEAL PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS OF KISSING

It’s National Kissing Day (22^nd June) – a day that celebrates and encourages the nation to share a kiss. However, although we all like a good smooch, many are unaware of all the psychological benefits kissing has. Indeed, from our mental well-being to healthier, happier and longer lasting relationships there are so many reasons to lock lips more often. With this in mind we asked We-Vibe’s Relationship Expert Dr Becky Spelman, to share 5 IDEAL psychological benefits of kissing with us.

MAKES US FEEL GOOD – SCIENTIFICALLY

Kissing prompts our bodies to secrete oxytocin, the feel-good hormone that prompts a sense of well-being and fosters feelings of love and affection, and dopamine, which helps us to feel a sense of bonding with someone else. When we kiss someone we love, it enhances our feelings for them and we feel more relaxed in their company.

LOWERS STRESS LEVELS

Kissing also lowers the rate of cortisol in our system. As high levels of cortisol are associated with stress, that’s good news for our mental health.

IT’S GOOD FOR OUR MENTAL HEALTH

Speaking of mental health, research into the role of a healthy microbiome (the bacteria that naturally live in our body) increasingly shows that having a good variety of healthy bacteria in our system is not just good for our physical health, but also our mental health, and especially good at helping to avoid depression. When we engage in deep kissing with someone, we swap more than just saliva; there’s also an exchange of the bacteria that live naturally within us, helping us both to maintain a varied microbiome. This also helps to boost our immune system and can assist in keeping depression at bay! In fact, some scientists think thatkissing might even have evolved as a way of swapping our “good” germs.

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT OF ATTRACTIVENESS

When we kiss and are kissed, we are reminded that we are attractive—and feeling attractive is good for our self-esteem, which in turn fosters positive mental health. By giving and receiving a kiss, we are telling ourselves that we know we deserve love and affection and boosting our sense that we are entitled to be happy. Research suggests that couples who kiss often are healthier, happier, and more likely to stay together.

Of course, there are some things we can do to help us get kissed more often; when you quit smoking, for example, your breath will smell better, and kissing will taste better, so you’ll get to do it a lot more.

IT REMINDS US THAT WE’RE CARED FOR AND LOVED

Kissing that is accompanied by sexual desire fosters the secretion of hormones associated with sex, raises our heart rate, and attunes us to small changes in our partner’s reaction. Kissing is normally part of a healthy and loving sex life and kissing in this context reminds both parties that they are cared for as well as desired.

5 IDEAL PREPARATIONS FOR YOUR FIRST ACTIVE HOLIDAY

Editorial Team

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June 21, 2018

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5 IDEAL PREPARATIONS FOR YOUR FIRST ACTIVE HOLIDAY

Heading off on your first active holiday can be slightly daunting. What if I can’t do it when I get there? What if the weather turns bad? What if I get lost and don’t speak the language? Well, it is pretty easy to put ‘what if?’ to the back of your mind, get prepared in advance and squeeze every jot of joy out of your active holiday. To help you get prepared and banish any pre-holiday worries, Fraser McRae, Destination Specialist at walking and cycling holiday provider Macs Adventure, shares his 5 IDEAL tips for preparing for your first active break.

KNOW THE TRIP IS THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOUR

Active travel is by far the best way to see the world, to get you completely immersed in any particular area, but before you go, you have to ensure that the specific trip is the right one for you, your skills and your level of fitness.

Deciding that you want to go on a walking holiday and that you love France does not mean that you should go and walk the Tour du Mont Blanc. For a first timer, this might just break you, so it is essential that you take in exactly what is expected of you on a daily basis and decide if your body can cope with that.

Don’t be over-cautious though! An active holiday should challenge you, and you will definitely feel the benefit of pushing your body a little harder, just don’t overdo it!

GET FIT FOR IT

This ties nicely into number one. Even if you have chosen the perfect trip for you, it is imperative that you get yourself in decent shape for it. There is nothing worse than being halfway through a day’s cycle and feeling that your quadriceps are going to explode and that you can’t go on.

Working on your general fitness is important, but building up your training to mimic what you can expect on your holiday is a great way to ensure you can focus more on enjoying your trip and less on ‘I need a seat, I am done in!’ If you are taking a walking holiday with average distances of 15 miles per day, make sure you can walk a couple of 15-mile days in a row before you head out.

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT KIT

The thought that you are going to go on a pilgrimage across Spain instantly makes you think of sunshine. Add to this the fact that your trip is active; you might think, shorts, t-shirt, walking sandals; sorted. I have been there, only to be at the top of a mountain, in two feet of snow, freezing cold.

Getting the right information about where you are going, and a good packing list is essential. This also helps with not overpacking, which is the other end of the scale. Figuring out exactly what you need and packing only that makes your active holiday that more comfortable and enjoyable.There are always things that don’t immediately spring to mind when heading to a particular location, like taking sunscreen to Scotland, but it does occasionally get blisteringly hot, and you don’t want to be caught out and ruin the rest of your week.

GET TO KNOW THE AREA

While it is always lovely to get a surprise, it is a great idea to do some research before heading on your active holiday. Knowing the area and knowing at least a bit about what to expect is a fundamental way to stay safe and be able to overcome any incidents you may have on the trip.

If you don’t want to see what it looks like, then guidebooks are the way to go. They will tell you all about the area in rich detail, without showing you exactly what you are letting yourself in for. The next level up is blogs and online guides. These give a great personal side to the area you are going to travel in and let you see a bit more, get to understand the region. Then, for the full experience, YouTube is the place to go. There are thousands of YouTube videos for every subject, so you will be able to see people participating in the exact holiday that you are going to take, watch their trials and celebrate their victories.

THROW YOURSELF IN

Travelling is different things to different people, but by far the most enriching travelling experiences come from when you simply immerse yourself, get into the local customs and culture and experience it all. When you are walking or cycling in a particular part of the world, you come into far more frequent contact with the locals, asking them for directions, where the nearest bar is, where is best to eat.

Taste all you can (active holidays mean you have an excuse to eat a lot!), try those local wines, speak your 15 words of Spanish as often as you can and feel the warmth in the replies you will get for trying. Holidays come too few and far between, so explore any opportunities that present themselves while you are away and you will return home having had a hugely fulfilling experience.

Bon voyage, travellers!

10 IDEAL THINGS TO DO IN GUERNSEY

Vicky Clifford Sanghad

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June 21, 2018

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Guernsey is certainly a unique proposition. It has its own stamps, blue painted post boxes, uses pound notes – yep, notes – and gets approximately 2,000 more hours of sunshine each year than mainland UK. Yep, 2000. Although inherently British, it’s safe to say that this self-governing British crown dependency has a character and atmosphere distinctly its own. And we love it.

So if experiencing a warmer, more idyllic version of the United Kingdom with a continental flair (it’s actually closer to Brittany than Britain) sounds up your street, then it’s as easy as packing up your car for a Guernsey holiday, driving aboard Condor Ferry and setting sail for the island. And when you get there, make sure to follow our 10 IDEAL things to do Guernsey.

SAND, SEA AND SURF

Whether you’re there to sunbathe (in those 2000 extra hours of the stuff) or to surf, the idyllic beaches of Guernsey are a real treat. One of the best for catching some waves is Vazon Bay, Guernsey’s largest beach, which lies on the West Coast of the Island and is also reputed to be one of the cleanest beaches in ‘Britain’. This long stretch of coast is a magnet for the island’s surf enthusiasts; sign up to Guernsey Surf School for some group or private lessons and excellent insider knowledge.

Of course, where there’s water, there’s sports, and it’s not only about the surfing. Indeed, kite surfing, paddleboarding, wind surfing, snorkeling, fishing and kayaking are also big business on the island. And when you’re done with all the physical stuff, what better way to watch the sun go down on an active day than with a beach BBQ, which you can have anywhere on the beach (excluding the Richmond end of Vazon).

Psst, hey you, possible water sports lover! For a really unique experience, check out the kayaking options from Shell Beach to Puffin Bay. Here you can get up close and personal with these incredible birds; a real taste of Guernsey’s nature.

SWIM AT THE VENUS POOL

Reachable only at low tide, via the seabed on a cobbled causeway, Lihou is a small island situated just off the west coast of Guernsey. Sounds dreamy right? Here you can take a plunge in the clear blue waters of Venus Pool; a sheltered, natural rock pool that is so deep, you can dive straight into it. If you dare.

SPEND THE DAY AT ST PETER PORT

With cute cobbled streets and a gorgeous seafront marina, this tiny, charming capital acts as the beating heart and lively hub of Guernsey. 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. For a pre-dinner aperitif, The Boat House is perched right on the edge of the harbour with a sweeping view of the sea. It’s the ideal place to enjoy Gurnsey’s cool continental vibe.

EXPLORE THE ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES

With its forts, castles, ruins and ancient tombs, Guernsey is the ideal place for the history buffs among us. The most famous site on the island is perhaps Dehus Dolmen, a prehistoric passage grave and one of Guernsey’s oldest attractions. Here’s you’ll find a remarkable carving of a cave man on one of the capstones. With a bearded face and holding what appears to be a strung bow, the carving is known as The Guardian of the Tomb, and is a majestic, humbling piece.

Guernsey is also home to many other archaeological sites of interest including what is thought to be the oldest man-made structure in Europe – Les Fouaillages, a neolithic burial site dating back some 8,000 years. Also worth a visit is the Albecq Medieval Settlement, Delancey Dolmen, which consists of the remains of a collapsed megalithic structure, and La Varde, one of the largest and most impressive surviving megalithic structures on the island.

TAKE ON GUERNSEY’S RUGGED TERRAIN

Guernsey is known for its picturesque, rugged coast, one which is punctuated by beautiful bays and secluded coves. Off the South Coast of Guernsey, the cliff path network, covered in cliff-top grassland and heathland, finishing at Pleinmont, is absolutely stunning.

Guernsey is also home to many quaint country lanes and boasts a network of safe, cyclist-friendly roads and paths. A popular route is from Portelet to Rousse along the island’s north west coast. Moreover, the island has a speed limit of only 35mph, making it the ideal place for safe, comfortable cycling. If all this slow paced stuff is a little to tame for you, you could always dive head first into some coasteering; a unique adventure sport involving scramble climbing, rock hopping, cliff jumping and adventure swimming, which is popular on the island.

BE HONEST AND HELP YOURSELF TO A HEDGE VEG

The Island’s long sunny days are ideal for growing fruit and veg and the local produce in Guernsey is absolutely phenomenal. A quirky, quaint and altogether charming practice on the islands are leaving hedge veg boxes.

Here locals leave their homegrown produce in boxes outside their homes, selling whatever seasonal produce has grown in their fertile gardens. Help yourself to the gorgeous produce and leave money on the honesty box.

CHECK OUT THE CHAPEL

Nestled in an off-the-beaten-track valley is The Little Chapel, said by some to be the smallest consecrated chapel in the world. While we’re no experts, we can say this; it’s simply lovely. This intricately decorated tiny place of worship is just 16ft long and 9ft wide; that’s small by anyone’s standards.

It was built by Brother Déodat, who started work in March 1914, wanting to mimic and create a miniature version of the famous grotto and basilica at Lourdes in France. The current chapel is the third one that he built as it has been demolished and rebuilt twice. Many pebbles, ceramics and shells decorate this much loved little church.

FEAST AT A FOOD FESTIVAL

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’s cookery demonstrations and free tastings of traditional dishes. A culinary lover’s delight, then.

Another fabulous foodie event is Tennerfest, held in the autumn. During this time, restaurants offer two and three course set menus for as little as £10 per head; the ideal way to eat your way around Guernsey’s fantastic restaurant scene without burning a hole in your wallet. And if you still need convincing, there’s also the Guernsey International Food Festival in September. Proof, it seems, that this is an island which really loves its tucker.

WITNESS THE TABLE DES PIONS

The Table des Pions, also known as the Fairy Ring, is a stone circle which some have dubbed ‘the ancient picnic table’. If you look at it, it’s easy to see why, and you could well imagine enjoying a fine, alfresco meal with your bum parked on one of the rocks. It’s said that if you walk around the stone circle at Pezeries Point three times and make a wish, it will come true. Just be careful what you wish for!

WATCH THE SUNRISE & SUNSET

Here at IDEAL we’re suckers for sunrises and sunsets; as far as we’re concerned, they’re natures best live show. For us, a holiday by the beach wouldn’t be complete without watching a spectacular sunrise over the sea, and Jebourg point is the place to do this.

Cobo Bay is a great spot to watch the sun go down, with locals and tourists alike flocking to the gorgeous bay to witness the spectacular sunset. Grab yourself a picnic or some delicious takeaway fish and chips from Cobo Fish Bar, sit on the seawall, and drink it all in. Lovely.

No doubt you’ll be itching to book your ticket to Guernsey after reading this roundup of things to do there.

visit: www.condorferries.co.uk/landing/dayout2018/

4 IDEAL WAYS TO BREAK YOUR ROUTINE AND KEEP THINGS FRESH

Editorial Team

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June 21, 2018

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4 IDEAL WAYS TO BREAK YOUR ROUTINE AND KEEP THINGS FRESH

In this crazy life, sometimes the only way of making it through the week is by letting routine take over – you know that sequence of actions you regularly follow to give the world structure and to simplify your hectic schedule. However, although switching on auto-pilot and doing your daily routines can make life easier, sometimes it’s important to mix things up, even if it’s working for you.

Why we hear you ask? Well for one changing your routine encourages your brain be creative and make new connections, exercising your brain. Moreover it can inject some much needed energy into your life. Indeed although routines can be helpful, they can make life monotonous and boring after a while. With this in mind, here are 4 IDEAL ways to break your routine and keep things fresh.

SWITCH UP THE SMALL THINGS

While you are not reinventing the wheel, switching up the small things and making a constant effort to add variety to your life will break up your routine no end. Why not eat breakfast outside or have breakfast in bed? Try to take a different route to work – a change of scenery is always welcome and this is a great way to meet new people, see new sights or get coffee from different shops. Also, think about adding a couple of interesting activities into your diary. You could book something to look forward to after work – a hair appointment, a massage or perhaps a theatre play? If you decide on the latter, you can find great theatre deals and maybe even consider surprising your whole family.

TAKE A RANDOM DAY OFF

Probably the most powerful way of turning off auto-pilot is by taking a whole day off. That’s right book a day off work simply for yourself and indulge in a little ‘me time’. If that’s not possible take advantage of your weekend and cancel all your obligations for that day and focus on activities that you enjoy doing. In other words, give yourself permission to do as little or as much as you like. Listen to music while gazing at the clouds, read a whole novel or go shopping. This is the self-care that you need in your life. Even if you can’t take a whole day off every week, you can still find some time for activities that help you unwind. Taking time to detach from the online world is a good idea, too.

LOOK AT THINGS FROM A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE

There is a lot of negativity in this world. It can either come from yourself or from people around you and it’s not a healthy way to live. Shut off negativity and try and focus on positive the aspects of your life for a few hours. Looking at things from a different perspective may even make your boring old routine seem fun and open up your eyes to an entire new world full of opportunities.

TAKE A BREAK FROM SOCIAL MEDIA

Last but not least, it is important to state the obvious. Social media can be draining and time-consuming. We routinely check social media without even knowing it, whether that’s in the morning, when we get home from work or last thing at night. So instead of spending hours on end scrolling through endless posts that can eventually take a toll on your mind, you could use that time for something a bit more practical. You’ll find a lot of interesting activities that you can practice instead of comparing your life to others.

5 IDEAL TIPS ON SQUEEZING THE MOST OUT OF STRAWBERRY SEASON

Food & Drink

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM

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June 21, 2018

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5 IDEAL TIPS ON SQUEEZING THE MOST OUT OF STRAWBERRY SEASON

With strawberry season in sight, household fridges across the UK will soon be jam-packed full of Pavlovas, Eton messes and Strawberry shortcakes. Boasting an abundance of vitamins and antioxidants, strawberries are undeniably delicious, yet equally nutritious. The cherished red fruit has proven itself a key ingredient in several traditional British recipes over the years, yet few of us are aware of the humble strawberry’s versatility in the kitchen. Be it breakfast, lunch or dinner, the vibrant fruit can transform any meal from mundane to mouth-watering in minutes.

Here at IDEAL we’re fans of infusing our spirits with strawberries for summer, but for those wishing to branch out, Gary Durrant, Head Chef at Hunter 486, has shared his top tips on how to make the most of the sweet strawberry season and create unique strawberry-centric dishes at home. Here’s 5 IDEAL tips on squeezing the most out of strawberry season.

HOT AND COLD

Roasting strawberries can create tremendously tasty results, particularly when paired with a generous scoop of Cornish vanilla ice-cream. To make the most of the oven-baked fruit, ensure the stem is sliced off, cut into quarters and then whisk together with a dash of maple syrup. Presentation is important with this pretty summer dessert, so let the strawberry slices cool down slightly before scattering them neatly on top of the ice cream.

BEGIN AT BREAKFAST

For a decadent breakfast treat, combine sliced strawberries with rhubarb pieces and spread over two thick slices of toast. To ensure a thorough fusion of flavours, press the fruit gently into the bread then chill in the fridge overnight. Fry your bread slices the following morning in a frying pan with plenty of butter. Feel free to add dashes of cinnamon and brown sugar too. Serve with a generous helping of Greek yogurt. Or how about a strawberry smoothie? Preparation is key with this dish but it’s worth the fuss!

SCOOP IT OUT

Strawberry cheesecake is a well-loved classic and a popular party pudding for any occasion. Why not re-invent the traditional recipe and try a new dinner party dessert? Simply scoop out the centre of the strawberry and fill it with a cheesecake filling. The classic combination of cream cheese, sugar, eggs and vanilla extract will hold perfectly inside the fruit when served fresh out of the fridge. For extra wow-factor, serve with a cinnamon glaze. Alternatively, if it’s a romantic snack you’re after then swap the glaze for a white chocolate dipping sauce.

FRUITY REFRESHMENT

As the weather warms up, homemade strawberry ice-lollies are a refreshing sunbathing snack. Simply combine crushed strawberries with a spoonful of sugar before mixing into a cold jug of lemonade. Pour the liquid into ice-lolly moulds and place a wooden stick in the centre. Alternatively, simply add strawberry slices to your ice cube tray and freeze overnight, a trick that will transform your summer beverage from simple to spectacular in a split second.

SEASONAL SUMMER SALAD

Contrary to popular belief, strawberries are not strictly reserved for the sweet-toothed. Inject a zing into your leafy summer salad by adding balsamic glazed strawberries into the mix. Gorgonzola cheese and pecan nuts both work particularly well with this dish.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR ENTERTAINING AL FRESCO THIS SUMMER

Editorial Team

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June 21, 2018

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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR ENTERTAINING AL FRESCO THIS SUMMER

If you enjoy entertaining friends and family, it won’t be long before you’re hosting barbecues and dinner parties in your garden. The weather is finally heating up and the days are getting longer, which means the next few months are perfect for eating, drinking, and making memories with your nearest and dearest.

Of course, you’ll want to ensure your get-togethers are remembered. To help you with that, we’re going to give you five of our top tips for entertaining al fresco. Read on to find out more.

PLAN AROUND THE WEATHER

As the British weather is famously unpredictable, planning an outdoor event well in advance can be quite risky. So, it’s often wise to be flexible. Rather than setting a date and creating a Facebook event a month before you plan to host your outdoor get-together, be more flexible.

The weather forecast can fluctuate a lot — especially in the warmer months. So, keep an eye on the Met Office’s 7-day forecast, and start to make your plans once you’re confident the coming weekend is going to be a fine one. While this will only give you a few days to invite everyone and ensure you’re prepared, it will give you a far better chance of being able to enjoy the beautiful weather you’re looking for.

MAKE SURE EVERYONE HAS SOMEWHERE TO SIT

To ensure all of your guests feel comfortable in your garden, you should make sure that everyone has somewhere to sit. Depending on what type of get-together you’re hosting, certain kinds of seating will be more appropriate than others.

For example, if you’re throwing an al fresco dinner party, you’ll want more of a formal set-up, with a dinner table and separate chairs for everyone. Alternatively, if your event is going to be more casual, a large table with a decent-sized garden sofa will work well. You could even add extra seating options by spreading throws and cushions across your lawn.

If you’re hoping to entertain a lot this summer and don’t have a suitable seating arrangement, consider investing in some new garden furniture that can accommodate your parties. Wyevale Garden Centres have a large selection of garden furniture sets that includes everything from small bistro sets to large outdoor sofas. So, you should have no trouble finding the perfect set to suit your needs.

CHOOSE A THEME AND GO ALL OUT

If you’re looking for a sure-fire way to show that you’ve put plenty of time and effort into organising your garden party, choose a theme that you can base all of your decorations, food, and drinks around. If you really want to go all out with this, let your guests know what the theme is when you invite them — this might prompt everyone to show up in outfits that fit the feel of your get-together.

There are certain themes that lend themselves quite nicely to garden parties. For example, consider going with the style of a traditional British tea party. Party Delights offers a wide range of tea party supplies, which includes tea cups, cake stands, plates and more in a variety of quirky designs. These are perfect for when you’re looking to entertain and want to do something that’s slightly out of the ordinary.

PUT SOME EXTRA THOUGHT INTO YOUR DRINKS MENU

Of course, you’ll want to serve food that all of your guests are going to enjoy, but it’s also worth putting some extra thought into your drinks menu. By going above and beyond to provide more than the usual bottles of beer and wine, you’ll be able to ensure that your get-together is one to remember.

This doesn’t have to take you a lot of time and effort, either. You could make a large bowl of punch that everyone can help themselves to, serve everyone’s drinks in novelty glasses, or purchase tipples that are out of the ordinary, such as flavoured vodkas or gins. Your guests will definitely be impressed.

INVEST IN SOME GARDEN PARTY- APPROPRIATE TABLEWARE

Using your nice dinner plates outdoors is always a risk, so why not buy some affordable but stylish tableware for the garden get-togethers you’re planning to host this summer?

We should all be making an effort to be more eco-conscious these days, so forego disposables and opt for reusable plastic plates and cutlery. Having these on hand will drastically reduce how much rubbish your party creates, and they’re hard to smash or snap, which means you’ll be able to use them time and time again.

HEMA stocks a wide range of reusable plastic tableware, which includes everything from mugs to bowls. These would work perfectly for your garden parties. And if you’re going to use straws, go for the recyclable paper kind.

5 IDEAL WAYS OF TRANSFORMING YOUR ROOF TERRACE INTO A HANG-OUT HAVEN

Vicky Clifford Sanghad

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June 21, 2018

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5 IDEAL WAYS OF TRANSFORMING YOUR ROOF TERRACE INTO A HANG-OUT HAVEN

The first rays on sunshine brought out the sunnies, shorts and sunburn. And with them, ideas of summer barbeques and beer fuelled boisterousness suddenly became real. We all know the season’s best side is scant (well, usually anyway), so it’s imperative to have everything in place and primed for outdoor parties and maximum frivolity. And the sooner, the better; you wouldn’t want to miss a single sunny afternoon. If you’re lucky enough to have a roof terrace, then why not transform it into the perfect hang-out haven? And if you’re looking for a little inspiration on how to transform that terrace, then read on. Here are 5 IDEAL ways of transforming your roof terrace into a hang-out haven.

INVEST IN THE RIGHT GARDEN FURNITURE

One of the main things that’s going to transform your rooftop into a heaven of hospitality is garden furniture. You’re going to need a comfortable seating area to relax and soak up the good vibes; a place to recline and relax. Depending on how big your rooftop terrace is, you could add outdoor sofas and chairs, or something more suited to compact spaces, like low-slung stools and floor cushions. If you truly want to scream summer from your roof top (terrace) then loungers should be your soapbox. You can find a wide range of modern outdoor loungers from sites like Cox & Cox, so be sure to look around for inspiration.

SOFTEN THE EDGES

Once you have your furniture sorted, it’s time to make it cosy. An outdoor space is generally not considered a place of great comfort; there are threats of every-changing weather to take into account, after all. But softening the edges of your rooftop terrace can easily be done with the right soft furnishings.

Now, when you’re planning a summer design, you’re obviously not going to want to add thick furnishings such as throws, as things are going to get hot. Instead, you’ll want to focus on cushions and perhaps a rug. Just remember to take those guys inside when the heavens inevitably open or you’re going to be disappointed next time you try getting comfy.

CONSIDER ADDING AN OUTDOOR FIRE

Yes, it’s summer, but this is the UK, not Benidorm. So if you plan on using your roof terrace hang-out in the summer evenings, it’s going to get a little chilly. An outdoor fire not only makes the terrace more comfortable on summer evenings, but it also adds a real stylish element too; a focal point for those drunken world-to-rights conversations and renditions of Wonderwall. There’s a wide range of different styles and sizes to choose from, so seek a little guidance first.

WARM NIGHTS, HOT TUB

Yep, we know it’s a bit Kardashian. And yes, there is a certainly sleaziness to a session in one, but a hot tub is certain to transform the vibe of your roof terrace immeasurably. Imagine sipping a refreshing cocktail and unwinding in your very own hot tub in the comfort and privacy of your own roof terrace. Sounds pretty luxurious to us and one thing’s for sure, people will want to hang out there, and that’s what it’s all about, right?

STRUCTURAL CONSIDERATIONS

When you’re creating your perfect rooftop terrace hang-out, you will need to consider weight restrictions; particularly if you do plan on adding a hot tub!

Always check the roof will be able to hold the weight of any furniture you’re planning to add. You may find that you need to build a more stable base before transforming the terrace area, so do your research and make absolutely sure you follow safety guidelines. Professional advice, as always, is better than false reassurance from the internet.

RESTAURANT REVIEW: SPOONS, SIEM REAP – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR FINE FOOD AND PHILANTHROPY

Joseph Gann

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June 20, 2018

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RESTAURANT REVIEW: SPOONS, SIEM REAP – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR FINE FOOD AND PHILANTHROPY

Despite the fact Cambodia, and especially Siem Reap, has benefited greatly from a recent boon in tourism, there is still much to do to alleviate poverty and help the young escape it. Coupled with this, much of Cambodia’s history has suffered blackout due to the previous dictatorship, and cuisine is a fundamental way of preserving and celebrating the country’s heritage. Spoons, therefore, is a very vital place indeed.

IDEA

With hospitality being the dominant enterprise of Siem Reap, Spoons was built to capitalise on this, with philanthropy at the forefront of its purpose. The idea of the restaurant is to integrate disadvantaged Cambodian youngsters into an industry with which they can build a meaningful future.

The menu is resolutely Cambodia, which is immensely pleasing, as so many joints in the city tend to tone down their food, or ignore it completely, for the Western market. Not so here, and for delicious dining that decision makes. Sustainable sourcing and support of local farmers makes this place a no-brainer, especially if you’ve only got one night in the city and a hungry, inquisitive tummy.

LOCATION

Spoons is five minutes by tuk-tuk from the Old Market and a short ride from any of the major hotels. The restaurant is tucked away on the charming and leafy Bamboo street (hence the decor) just behind Wat Danmak. Its position on this laid-back street has a feeling of calm far removed from the hectic Pub Street.

ATMOSPHERE

Charitable and culinary cares aside, the décor is unique and true to Cambodian charm – all bamboo and wood, greenery and airy minimalism. It’s a special place to spend an evening, with good cheer radiating and service attentive. Were a visitor to happen across this spot and not be aware that wait staff were in training, it would not be immediately obvious, as the whole experience is managed with grace and poise.

FOOD

The menu is refreshingly crisp, a plus for tourist-heavy cities with eager to please tomes in most restaurants. Fish is prominent, especially those from the river, reflective of the local sourcing and effort to maintain the authenticity of the Cambodian diet. There’s an abundance of coconcut and fresh herbs, everything is light and flavourful, and most importantly each dish we tried was genuinely delicious.

DRINK

The drinks menu riffs on some classic cocktails and gives it an Asian twist. There’s also a clutch of decent, affordable wines and a couple of beers. We’d recommend the Cambodian beer, brewed nearby.

MUST TRY

Spoons is a fish-lovers paradise, which suits us to the ground – a large proportion of the menu would feel confident in the must try section. Best of all though was the whole mackerel, grilled until the skin reaches that delicious smokiness that oily fish does so well and furnished with that Cambodian specialty which we just can’t get enough of – Prahok. If you haven’t encountered it before, we pity you.

A pungent blend of spices and fermented, salted fish adds body to any dish, especially sitting well alongside raw, chilled vegetables. In this dish, with sour tamarind relish and sweet, refreshing coconut rice, it worked so perfectly. Num Krok, tasty coconut cream dumplings served with a zesty galangal dipping sauce, were another high point.

WHY GO

A myriad of reasons, so take your pick. For us, the prahok has started a new culinary obsession and the relaxed ambience made for a most memorable, enjoyable evening in this laid-back city. That makes a visit here a must even before the charitable considerations which make this place so worthwhile. Just go, and leave a fuller, better person.

Website: www.spoonscambodia.org

Image source: Spoons Facebook page

HOTEL REVIEW: THE ARCH LONDON – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR A SOPHISTICATED LONDON STAYCATION

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Editorial Team

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June 19, 2018

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HOTEL REVIEW: THE ARCH LONDON – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR A SOPHISTICATED LONDON STAYCATION

The Arch London is a luxurious Georgian townhouse hideaway in the heart of central London. The officially rated five star property is a regular resident amongst the top 20 Luxury hotels in the UK on TripAdvisor and has earned the 2017 Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Award. Some pretty impressive credentials wouldn’t you say? We recently visited to see if the hotel lives up to its exceptional reputation and *spoiler alert* – it did.