Home Blog Page 323

HOTEL REVIEW: HOTEL ALEXANDRA, COPENHAGEN – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR FANS OF THE 60s

Great design can be found just about anywhere in Copenhagen, and with an abundance of boutique hotels, the city has interior design of personality and individuality in droves. Such is the level of choice on offer, it’s vital that a hotel has its own unique style, one to do more than just turn the head, but to capture the imagination too. Hotel Alexandra is one of those places.

IDEA

The enduring popularity of mid-century modern design style means the hotel will probably never need decorating again. With its clean lines and gentle organic curves, it would have appealed to guests of the 50’s and 60’s. One could imagine scenes from the boardroom of Mad Men being filmed here – whiskey, quips, charm and all. Although the hotel offers a range of amenities, a time machine is not one of them.   Today’s guests and the guests of the future will have to make do, then, with being transported back by the timeless decor of the Alexandra.

LOCATION

Located right next to Town Hall Square, Hotel Alexandra is about as central as you can get. This is where the famous pedestrian shopping street, Strøget, begins. Tivoli gardens is just a short stroll away and the Latin quarter, known as Latinerkvarteret to the Danes, is close too. The Latin Quarter is home to some of the most colourful streets in the city, with all the shops, bars and restaurants you could want.

STYLE AND CHARACTER

The outside is a classic century old building and the inside feels like it hasn’t moved past the 1960s, in the best possible way. This is down to the hotel’s large, unique collection of Danish mid-century furniture. There’s plenty of information about the collection on their website, with the hotel quite rightly proud of it. With pieces from some of the best-known Danish designers of the period, such as Arne Jacobsen, Hans Wegner and Finn Juhl, it’s a collection that most mid-century design buffs will relish. In the evening you can put on your favourite record in the study or read one of the designer books in the lobby while supping on a complimentary glass of wine.

ROOMS

The rooms are all quite small (except the luxe rooms and the suites) but perfectly formed and extremely comfortable. They are all decorated with the same mid-century style that is found throughout the hotel, keeping a pleasing synergy and loyalty to the vision in every aspect of the place. We loved the old style room keys, enormous and attached to old fashioned fobs. You never have the hassle of mistaking the key for your credit card or accidentally taking the light switch card out instead – an occurrence we’re sure is familiar to many.

The rooms are soundproofed so your groans of delight as you sink into 1950s style Danish furniture will go undetected. The hotel also offers, if the time and numbers are right, a complimentary upgrade upon hotel check-in, based upon availability – so fingers crossed

FOOD AND DRINK

If you’ve been in Copenhagen for a while, and smorgasbords, pickled herring and sea buckthorn have begun to wear a little thin, the Hotel Alexandra houses Lé Lé Street Kitchen on the ground floor. Le Le offers Vietnamese-inspired cuisine, light, fragrant and fresh, as it should be, and a welcome change from the Danish classics. The hotel’s breakfast buffet is also served in  Lé Lé Street Kitchen. Although you can’t get a bowl of pho to kick start your day (we think they’re missing a trick there) you do get a healthy Scandinavian spread. 

FACILITIES

One of our favourite things about the hotel is the free guides. Throughout the hotel you’ll find QR codes with a link to download the hotel’s app, which features guides to the hotel’s “favourite places in Copenhagen”. So much easier to do this then spend your morning googling where to go and what to see, and a really nice touch.

WHY GO

The Hotel Alexandra is in a prime location, bang in the city centre and in walking’s reach from the majority of Copenhagen’s major attractions. With its sleek, specific decor and urban cool, it is just the place to base yourself as you explore this trendy, sophisticated city.

Address: H. C. Andersens Blvd. 8, 1553 København V, Denmark

Website: hotelalexandra.dk

Disclosure: IDEAL stayed as a guest of the hotel

THE IDEAL GUIDE ON EVERYTHING YOUR NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BROADBAND

If you want faster internet access, you can choose a broadband connection. The broadband technology, termed as permanent web connection, is convenient as it allows you to the use internet as soon as you put on the computer. In most offices and workplaces, there is the use of this technology. It is faster and much more efficient than a dial-up system. You may use Usave broadband deals portal to compare the rates offered by service providers and choose the right one for you.

What are the kinds of broadband?

The kind of broadband you select depends on your needs. The main options available in the market are Fibre Optic, ADSL, Mobile and Satellite. ADSL runs via the telephone network you are using. If you need high speed of internet connection, go for Fibre Optic running through glass or plastic cables. Mobile internet is used through data card or USB dongle and may be inbuilt computer connection, whereas the best satellite options offer global coverage and reliability.

Read: How can you keep your data safe while travelling the world?

Should you go for wireless internet?

Wireless broadband is another best option where you access the internet without the use of wire. But, you need to have a wireless router. If you are within the range of the router, you can access the internet easily. So, the Wi-Fi enabled device will have an internet connection when there is a router.

What packages are available?

Before you utilise Usave broadband deals, you need to know about the packages available in your locality. If you are not eligible for any particular broadband package, then you cannot avail it. So, just enter your pin code in the search box to check what packages you are eligible for.

What is line rental?

The charges you pay to the broadband service provider for the internet services is called line rental. Before selecting any package, you must know about the charges you need to bear. At times, the charges are high and so you should know about it.

What is the implication of broadband bundle?

It may be that along with the internet connection, you are able to use the telephone and take up other services. Bundles refer to the services tied to a broadband connection where you just need to pay a monthly fee for broadband. There is no need to purchase individual services when you can avail broadband bundles.

What is no additional charge unlimited broadband?

It is the broadband service package where you pay a monthly fee and can use the internet as much as you want. There is no limit as to how much GB you are expanding. Before buying the package, know whether it is truly ‘unlimited pack’ or not.

What is broadband speed?

The speed at which you can access the internet is broadband speed. Before choosing a package, do consider the broadband speed you are getting.

How to choose the best broadband package?

The package you select must be as per your needs. There is a usage limit up to which you can use the internet. If you cross that, the service provider will charge you extra. Determine your needs before choosing any.

Compare ratings offered to broadband service providers and then make a choice. There is no need to enter into a long term contract with the service provider. Choose the one who offers flexibility in the broadband package.

9 IDEAL CELEBRITY ANIMALS: THE MOST FAMOUS PETS ON INSTAGRAM

We all love our pets, and not only that, most of us also love taking plenty of photos of them. With the rise of social media, we’ve seen a great trend towards celebrities creating and running Instagram accounts for their dogs and cats — some of them attract tens of thousands of followers overnight.  And it’s not wonder why. Did you know that research shows that looking at pictures of cute animals can help improve your work performance and powers of concentration and makes us happy? With this in mind and with the help of leading grain free dog food provider, Feedem,  we’ve rounded up some of the best celebrity pet Instagram accounts of 2018 for your enjoyment. 

BERTHA

This cute golden Labrador pup is the pet of former Olympian and current reality TV star, Caitlyn Jenner. Named Bertha and adopted in June 2017, the dog has been a regular on Jenner’s social media accounts. However, in December last year, the star was left panicked when she returned to her Malibu home to find the roof of her home at been ripped off by powerful winds and Bertha nowhere to be found. Fortunately, a workman who had come to help clean up the damaged house spotted Bertha on his way to the site, and soon, dog and owner were reunited.

© Caitlyn Jenner Instagram

CHOUPETTE

This gorgeous white-haired, Birman cat is the pet of Chanel’s iconic creative director, Karl Lagerfeld. Born in 2011, Choupette was a gift from model, Baptiste Giabiconi, and is one of many celebrity pets to have her own Twitter and Instagram accounts — “Soon, people will talk more about Choupette than me!” said Lagerfeld. Choupette has apparently inspired many fashion pieces since she came into Lagerfeld’s life, and has even appeared in several photoshoots. Oddly, the fashion icon admitted that he wished to marry his pet one day, although, this has never come to fruition.

© Choupettes Diary Instagram

PEGGY

Comedienne, Miranda Hart, loves her pet shih-tzu/bichon frise cross, Peggy, so much that she even wrote a book about her: Peggy and Me, admitting that: “Owning Peggy was the only thing that qualified me as an adult,”. Hart also took her book to the stage at the London Palladium. She adopted Peggy after the pup was brought to the filming of sitcom, Not Going Out. Since then, Hart and Peggy enjoy bike rides around West London and holidays around the UK.

© Miranda Hart Instagram 

 

MISS ASIA KINNEY

This French Bulldog is the prized pet of global star and fashion icon, Lady Gaga. Born in 2014, she has the nickname ‘BatPig’ and was given her own Instagram account by Gaga in 2015. The pampered pooch has modelled alongside her famous owner several times — including on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar — and has been snapped in the same kinds of extravagant costumes we usually see on Gaga. The star also has two other French bulldogs, Koji and Moonpig.

© Miss Asia Kinney Instagram 

OLIVE BECKHAM 

To really drive Brand Beckham, every member of the famous family has to have their hand, or paw, on the wheel. The Beckham’s pet, a cocker spaniel named Olive, joined the family in 2015, and since then, she’s landed her own Instagram account and a role on a TV advert with her revered footballing owner. Olive is the latest four-legged Beckham to join the famous family, following shar-pei, Barnaby, and bulldogs, Coco and Scarlet.  

© Olive Beckham 

SHANTI OM BB

Adopted in 2015 with around 104,000 followers on Instagram, Miley Cyrus’ cat — Shanti Om Bb — is hot property in the celebrity feline world. The name choice for the fluffy, bright-white pet cat may seem odd, but it’s meant to mean ‘peace’ — although it’s unclear whether it was Shanti or another of Cyrus’ cats that left her with bloodied scratches on her head and arm in 2016.

© Instagram Shanti Om Bb 

Cyrus has such a wide collection of pets — including dogs, fish, pigs, and cats — that it’s hard to keep a track of how many animals she actually owns. So, how large a pet-family Shanti Om Bb is a part of is anyone’s guess! However, we do know that Cyrus is especially fond of looking after her pet pigs — one of which apparently receives manicures and sleeps on the sofa.

BATMAN

Singer and actress, Demi Lovato, is another proud pup owner who has created a popular Instagram account for her dog, Batman. The all-black Yorkipoo became part of the Lovato family in 2015 — though, he didn’t get his own account until March 2017! Lovato chose to adopt Batman after losing her beloved pet, Buddy, who was sadly killed by coyotes. To date, Batman has around 70,000 followers.

© ddlovato Instagram

GARY

The tragic death of Star Wars legend, Carrie Fisher, in 2016 caused an outpouring of grief around the world. But did you know that the legendary actress’ beloved pet dog, Gary, is still regularly updating his Instagram account? With a huge 195,000 followers, Gary Fisher is one of the top dogs of Instagram and now lives with Carrie Fisher’s former assistant, Corby McCoin. The pooch is also big on Twitter, and a special video — showing Gary visibly excited whenever he spotted his former owner on screen during a showing of Star Wars: The Last Jedi — was liked around the world.

© Instagram Oscar Isaac Fan Account

 

And the French bulldog’s fame doesn’t end there. The dog also made a cameo appearance in Carrie Fisher’s final Star Wars film dressed up as an alien and sat on Graham Norton’s sofa with his owner during an interview in 2015!

SUNNY & BO

Former holder of the First Dog of the United States title, Bo and younger companion, Sunny, enjoy great lives as pets of ex-President, Barack Obama, and his family. Bo, born in 2008, was the first pet for the Obama family when they were in the White House and was presented as a gift from Senator Kennedy. He officially entered the White House in April 2009. Soon after, Bo was joined by Sunny, who was born in 2012 and was introduced by Michelle Obama on Twitter in August 2013.

Although Sunny is all black and Bo has patches of white, the two pets look very similar, and when asked if he would allow his pets into the iconic Oval Office, Obama replied “of course”. Since Obama left the White House, the two Portuguese water dogs have been spotted adjusting to life more out of the public eye at their new home in Washington D.C.  

 

6 IDEAL WAYS TO BRING THE SPARK BACK INTO YOUR RELATIONSHIP

A new relationship is an exciting time. You get butterflies whenever you think about them or speak to them. You imagine your lives together because everything right now is so perfect, you wouldn’t want anything to change. However, once the honeymoon period is up, the spark can easily be lost once you fall into a routine of the same rigmarole every day. You begin to notice each other’s faults and even though you love them, you long for some excitement to be injected back into your relationship. If this sounds familiar, here are 6 IDEAL ways to bring the spark back into your relationship.

DO SOMETHING SPONTANEOUS

One of the best ways to ignite a spark is by doing something that surprises your partner. Cook them their favourite meal, make them feel a million dollars, whisk them off on a surprise holiday, or even arrange for them to do something that they love doing (with you, of course). Doing something spontaneous to show them how much you love and care for them. This usually prompts them to do something for you too, and it becomes a cycle of showing your spouse how much they really mean to you.

ARRANGE DATE NIGHTS

Sometimes relationships can begin to feel stale because you have no time for yourselves. This is a common feeling once children come into the relationship. There’s no time for just you two, and you can end up resenting one and other for little things that you’re doing. Take a look at these date night ideas and see if there’s anything that takes your fancy, or you know your partner will enjoy. Make time as often as possible to go for a date night so that you can begin to see that spark between you again.

BE SELFLESS 

It’s all too easy to feel like your partner doesn’t do anything for you, but do they feel that about you? Really think about what you do for each other, and we don’t mean romantically either. You’re there for each other, you both work hard for what you have, and you’re a team. Sometimes being selfless can make you both realise that in fact, you don’t need material things from one and other, you simply just need each other.

KEEP UP THE PHYSICAL SIDE OF THINGS

While sex is a very important part of a relationship, it’s not everything. Sometimes keeping things physical by simply hugging and kissing more often, holding hands while watching TV and offering the occasional back rub can make them feel loved. More often than not, a physical act like a back rub leads on to sexual relations which as you know, most definitely keeps the spark alive in your relationship.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO ADMIT YOU’RE WRONG

One of the biggest mistakes that people make within their relationship is by being too stubborn to admit when they are wrong. Stop keeping score on who has or hasn’t done something, because it can soon turn into a war that you can’t get yourself out of. It’s a challenging thing to do, but once you start admitting when you’re wrong you will notice that there are less arguments and you’re getting on much better than before. We all have faults that annoy one and other, and once you both begin showing that you want to change for each other, things will immediately begin improving.

REMEMBER THAT RELATIONSHIPS TAKE HARD WORK

No relationship is perfect, and if it seems like it is, it’s either a very new relationship or one of them is too scared to show their true feelings. You’re going to disagree from time to time, and sometimes you’re going to feel like you’re in a rut in your relationship. Make sure that you’re both supporting each other with every adventure that you have. Make the effort to compliment your partner, accept criticism, and live each day as it comes. Life is too short to keep score or argue, so even when you’re pulling your hair out in frustration, take the time to make amends because one day, you might wake up and it all be too late.

4 COMMON REASONS COUPLES STOP HAVING SEX & IDEAL WAYS TO START AGAIN

Most couples get to the stage in their relationship where the sex stops. You can then find yourself in a sex standoff because neither of you wants to make the first move, and you have simply got comfortable in your no-sex relationship. But, how did you get to this place to begin with? And with that in mind, here’s 4 common reasons couples stop having sex and some ideal ways to start again. 

YOUR TIMING IS OFF

One of the most common reasons for partners to stop having sex is because they are on different levels with regards to frequency of intercourse. It is not so much the difference in sexual tastes that matters; it is more to do with how often each of you wants to have sex. If you are someone who doesn’t want sex regularly, yet your partner is the type of person that wants to have sex every other day, he or she may stop trying because they wonder whether you are interested in them in that way at all.

So, how do you fix it? You should consider scheduling. No, this doesn’t mean that you say to your partner “Friday, 7 pm, we will have sex.” However, you can set some time whereby you just focus on one and other.

Sex does not have to be the end goal here; you could simply kiss or cuddle. Doing so will give you a burst of the hormone oxytocin which is often referred to as the “love hormone,” as it stirs up feelings of affection and attachment. As such, you’ll automatically feel closer to your partner. Or you could offer to please one another and explore each other’s bodies. Concentrate on the clit and other areas that are sensitive to sexual stimulation – you will often find that this will lead to sex in the end. Even if it doesn’t, it will bring you closer in this way.

YOU HAVE AN ‘EMBARRASSING’ PROBLEM

You will notice the word embarrassing is in inverted commas – this is because you are probably the only person that finds it embarrassing. This could be anything from struggling in the bedroom, to a lack of sex drive, to a lump you have found down below. No matter what it is, if you cannot talk to your partner about it, the best thing to do is see a health professional. You can find out more information about this at International Andrology London. After all, you should never take a risk with your health, and you have nothing to be worried or anxious about. Whatever you are experiencing, it is not embarrassing! It is probably incredibly common and can be fixed with a simple visit to a specialist healthcare professional.

STRESS

Stress is one of the biggest sex killers there is! Plus, when you consider just how fast-paced life is today, and the fact that work commitments seem to be taking over, it’s not hard to see why we are feeling stressed more and more frequently. It is likely that sex is simply not a priority in your life anymore because you have so many other things to concern yourself with, for example, childcare and different shifts at work. Let’s be frank; sex can be a lot of work, especially if you’re tired. It’s easy for stress to get the better of is so try to destress as much as you can. Leave work at work and make time for yourself. You could even try burning to burn some essential oils to help transform your mood.Oh and did we mention that sex can actually help reduce stress? 

YOUR CHILDREN GET IN THE WAY

This is probably something that all parents can relate to. Once you start having children, any libido you had left is squashed. Not only do you have the hassle of having to find a moment to yourself, but there is also the stresses and strains that come with being a parent. General exhaustion and breastfeeding can further deplete your desire to engage in sexual intercourse. There was a study conducted by Laumann, which revealed a lot about women and their desire for sex. For women in their 20’s with children under the age of six-years-old, more than 95 per cent of those surveyed stated that they had no interest in sex. For women without children, this figure only amount to 34 per cent, so you can really see how having kids has a negative impact on sex drive.

There is no easy fix for this situation. After all, you can’t go back to the days without kids – nor would you want to! However, you should try to schedule some time for you and your partner only, in the name of spicing things up. Ask your parents if they would look after your children for a weekend so you and your partner can get away and spend some time together. Or convince one of your children’s friends mothers to host a sleepover – tell them you’ll return the favour so they can have a night off to. 

4 IDEAL PERKS OF BRINGING PLANTS INTO YOUR HOME

When it comes to brightening up your interiors and bringing some added character to the décor, a little greenery can add that final flourish to your home. Indeed, houseplants are perfect for transforming any room from a dull, boring space into an area that boasts style, life and energy. Whilst houseplants are perfect for adding to the overall look of a room, they also bring many additional advantages that most of us aren’t aware of. From health benefits to promoting a cleaner living space, here’s 5 IDEAL perks of bringing plants into your home. 

REMOVE TOXINS IN THE AIR

Did you know that indoor air pollutants are ranked among the top five environmental risks to public health? But don’t worry, NASA scientists have worked tirelessly to understand and find a remedy to this problem and their pioneering, space age solution? House plants – groundbreaking we know.

Plants are perfect for purifying the air within your home as they remove the toxins and provide you with a clear, fresh space to live in. They are also ideal for promoting better breathing, as plants help to release more oxygen into the air and absorb carbon dioxide. Not sure which plant to get? We recommend Aloe Vera which is believed to be among the most powerful plant based air purifiers in the world.

INCREASE POSITIVITY & REDUCE STRESS

Studies have shown that by having houseplants in certain rooms of your home, you are able to reduce stress, increase positivity, boost your mood and even reduce the risk of fatigue or anxiety. Whilst it may not seem like your plants are having much of an impact on your health, there’s a high chance that they will be, so there’s never been a better time to find some beautiful plants to make you feel more zen. 

IMPROVE CONCENTRATION

Having pot plants is fantastic if you work from home as they have been proven to boost productivity and focus. Studies have consistently shown that having a minimalist space bolstered by the presence of greenery aids concentration in home-office workers. Obviously huge trees or unkempt foliage aren’t exactly conducive to a steely focus – clutter is the enemy of performance after all – but some well groomed, small plants are great.

REDUCE LEVELS OF DUST

If you’re a lazy cleaner, introduce houseplants to your home. Believe it or not, plants absorb fine particles that float in the air – in other words dust. To get all scientific, plants produce ions that attract particles in the air like dead skin cells and break them down to help them grow, just like a magnet attracts iron.

Image source: www.twowests.co.uk 

BRING THE OUTSIDE IN

We all want to connect more with the great outdoors, to lay in a field, frolic amongst the long grass or climb a tree. Unfortunately, most of us are too busy to act on these desires; there are too many notifications to check, emails to reply to and selfies to pose for. Bringing the outside in with pot plants can be that little nod to nature in times of urban suffocation.

5 IDEAL REASONS EVERY FOODIE SHOULD EXPERIENCE A PARIS FOOD TOUR

From a plethora of patisseries, boulangeries and delicatessens to cute cafes by the dozen, when it comes to food in Paris, there’s so much to see and do. Step off the Eurostar at Gare du Nord or on to the runway at Charles de Gaulle and you’ll immediately be tempted with shops selling cheeses, charcuterie and pastries at every turn.

Traditional French Bistro fare like coq au vin and tarte tatin will be endlessly inviting. Indeed, the sheer enormity of options can turn the streets of the French Capital into a culinary minefield; a Parisdox of Choice, if you will. Enter the Paris food tour.

Before you roll your eyes, listen (or rather read). We’re against following a guide who carries a megaphone and one of those annoying flags as much as the next person. However, we’ve learnt not to turn our nose up at food tours.

Unlike the fifty strong throng of tourists trailing behind a flustered guide who is failing to herd hungry cats, food tours are a different, smaller and more intimate beast all together, allowing you to really get under the confited skin of a city like Paris. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL reasons every gourmet should experience a Paris food tour.

SAMPLE SOME OF THE CITIES BEST

If you’re looking to eat your way through the very best of the world’s iconic food capital, going on one of the best Paris food tours is the way to do it. On a such a tour, you’ll be spoon-fed (not literally of course) the best of the best; none of the overpriced, tourist heavy places for you. Nope, you’ll eat like the locals do; the only way to truly immerse yourself in a city’s food culture. And even if your food tour doesn’t cover some of the fare and eateries you had your eye on, you can ask the guide for their recommendations of where to go and what to try.

MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR TIME

Whether you’re on a short stopover flight, in the city for a single day, or visiting for a week, you don’t want to waste any time when it comes to that coveted week away. Food wise, there’s so much to see and do in Paris and although it’s very manageable city, it’s impossible not to get lost when you’re somewhere new.

Instead of wasting your time googling the ‘top French food you have to try‘ or the ‘best boulangeries in Paris’, then trying to figure out which way that little blue arrow is pointing to on google maps, book yourself on a food tour. Your guide will know the streets of every foodie arrondissement like the back of their pastry-flecked hands, so instead of recollections of getting lost in Paris, your getaway will be filled with memories of gourmet moments.

GET BENEATH THE CITY’S SKIN

If you truly want to immerse yourself in food culture of Paris, then a food tour with a local is the way to do it. Your guide will be able to teach you things that you won’t learn in a guide book. You’ll be able interact with restauranteurs and local vendors and gain a unique perspective of the city’s culinary landscape.

On some tour’s you’ll even be able to go backstage, nosey around the kitchens and watch the chefs create some delectable French delicacies. Since food is so deeply ingrained in Parisian culture, many food tours provide an eclectic mix of history, quirky little known facts and food all-in-one. A food tour is your very own insider’s guide to the city’s food scene, taking you to places you would never have found without it. 

THERE’S A FOOD TOUR FOR EVERY TASTE IN PARIS…

Paris is divided into many arrondissements and each district has its own unique vibe and scene. It would be impossible to have a quality experience of each area, individually, on a short visit to the city.

That’s where a foodie tour comes in handy. Whether you want to explore the lesser known but übercool areas of Bastille and Aligre or dedicate a day entirely to chocolate, if there is a particular area you want to explore or a certain French delicacy you delve deeply into, there will be a food tour for it. And you. Here’s a rundown of some of our favourite foodie tours in Paris.

IDEAL FOR THE SWEET TOOTH – Saint Germain des Prés FoodTour with sweet tastings

This tour takes you on a trip around Paris’s world renowned chocolate makers and local artisans. From Brigitte Bartos favourites cream puff pies to silky soft macaroons and decadent kouignettes, this tour will sedate and satiate even the sweetest of tooth.

IDEAL FOR A BOOZY TIME –  Bastille Guided Walking Tour: Wine & French Tapas Tour  

If you want to experience the buzz of a French bistrot and wine bars, then this tour is for you. It takes you through Bastille’s bars and taverns where you can sample local wines and beers and enjoy French specialties along the way.

IDEAL FOR A TRADITIONAL GOURMET EXPERIENCE – Immersion in French Gastronomy – 3 hour food tour in Paris

This tour takes you to some of the finest French food purveyors in Paris giving you ample time to sample some of the most delicious food Paris has to offer. This one is a great all round guide to the gastronomy of Paris, perfect for those wishing to get a flavour of the whole Paris package.

MAKE SOME FOODIE FRIENDS

Human being’s are social creatures and most of us like to make new friends. On a food tour you’ll not only be able to share your passion with fellow foodies, you could even make some new friends along the way, or at the very least, share some gourmet recommendations.  Be sure to embrace your new found foodie friends with two kisses accompanied by an exaggerated sounding air kiss, just like a true Parisian. Berets and monochrome hooped jumpers are not obligatory.

 

10 IDEAL GIFTS FOR MOTORCYCLE RIDERS

Yes, we know – buying gifts for bikers is never easy. Particularly the kinds of bikers who already seem to have everything. On the plus side, you don’t have to be an expert in motorcycle riding equipment to pick an outstanding piece of kit for the enthusiast in your life. Simply choose from one of the following top 10 gifts and you won’t go wrong:

Helmet Camera

First up, helmet cameras serve two important purposes. One of which being to record epic rides for future viewing, the other being to collect evidence for use in the event of an accident. If he or she doesn’t already have a helmet camera, you have your answer!

Motorcycle Tools

The simple set of handy motorcycle tools represents an indispensable addition to every rider. As tool technology and versatility are advancing all the time, a quality set of motorcycle tools never fails to make a great gift.

Bike Locks

The same also goes for security locks, which likewise continue to evolve and improve all the time. A professional lock is an absolute must for every biker, though many dated models still in use today aren’t what you’d call particularly effective.

Visor Replacements

If you can’t go the whole hog and buy an entirely new helmet, why not consider visor replacements? A new visor can make an entire helmet look and feel as good as new, while in some instances improving its versatility and comfort. If in doubt, ask a stockist for advice.

Clothes

You can never go wrong with the very best motorcycle apparel on the market.  Gift the fanatic in your life an Alpinestars motorcycle jacket for example and you’re guaranteed a pretty robust response! From gloves to boots to accessories, motorcycle apparel in general is always a safe bet.

Lubricants and Spray

You might need to ask an experienced retailer for their recommendations, but this is also a great category from which to select a gift or two. Chain lube, copper grease, air filter, brake fluid – all the kinds of essentials they’re going to need at some point. Just be sure not to buy randomly, in order to avoid getting things well and truly wrong.  

Key Rings

Definitely the most affordable entry to the list, though potentially one of the most practical at the same time. Not to mention, genuinely personal and thoughtful, if you get it right. A keyring that means something to you also means something to the recipient, and can be carried with them at all times.

Bluetooth Intercom Set

These are absolutely brilliant for keeping in touch with fellow riders and passengers while out and about. They can also be used to play music directly from mobile devices and are surprisingly inexpensive.

Hearing Protection

Another absolute must for the keen rider, hearing protection can significantly increase the enjoyment of every ride. Check out the latest noise reduction earplugs as a good place to start.

GPS

Last but not least, a good GPS system is perhaps the single most vital piece of equipment for the modern biker. If their current Sat Nav the system is either dated or non-existent, you won’t find a more versatile or appreciated gift than this!

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR HOSTING YOUR OWN EVENT TO REMEMBER IN LONDON

If you’re looking to host an event in London and want to raise the bar, then the traditional assumption is that you’re going to need to throw some serious coin at it to make it sparkle. Things don’t have to be this way. Despite being a city of great glitz, glamour and go getting, so many parties in the Capital tend to follow a similar theme; identikit, irrelevant and lacking character. A little proactivity and personality can change all that. Inject individuality and style into your party, wedding or business gathering, and it’s sure to go with a noisy, raucous bang. Follow a well trodden path though, and all you’re likely to hear are the yawns of your bored guests. So with that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL tips for hosting your own event to remember in London.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

For an unforgettable event, the location and venue are paramount; they set the scene and create the ambiance, and in many ways, are the real star of the show. Such is the size of London, choosing a relatively central location is a must if you want enthusiastic rather than reluctant attendees. Being in the mix also means a myriad of businesses in the vicinity who could assist you if something goes wrong last minute.

VENUE, VENUE, VENUE

Equally important as accessibility is the four walls in which your event will be played out. Choosing an outstanding venue will ramp up your guest’s excitement and a well appointed one can help ensure that all your needs are catered for, as many provide staff, catering, decorations and more. To this end, it may be worth considering using a respected events management company who have working relationships with London’s top event locations and can advise accordingly.

STAGING AND DRESSING

Having a fabulous venue is a great foundation from which you can develop your own ideas and inject your own style into proceedings. You want to put your own stamp on things, no doubt, and your staging and dressing of the occasion is your vehicle to do this. For some, adopting a theme will act as the inspiration for staging and dressing the venue. Cirque chic can work well, for instance, and involves bringing in spot lights and performers such as fire breathers, jugglers and a Ring Master as an MC. Or go for a more understated approach, and consider just filling the venue with flowers. No matter what approach you settle on, go all out; a half-hearted effort may leave you thinking “could have, should have, would have”. And you don’t want that.

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT

Although entertainment is integral to some events, you should keep in mind that your guests aren’t attending a show; this is a social event and often overbearing, organised fun can in fact serve as a distraction. It may well be that, simply, music is required and this should work in harmony with the type of event and the people who gather together for it. Once you’ve selected the most appropriate “playlist”, then ensure whoever is looking after the PA system isn’t inclined to pump up the volume to levels at which conversation is stifled.

Or perhaps consider some live music that takes place around half way through the event, offering a shift in mood and a new conversation starter. Instead of the the more cliched choices, consider string quartets, choirs and solo vocalists to bring a touch of class.

FEEDING THE CROWD

Whether it be a three course meal, a light bite or something somewhere in between, the best advice when food is concerned is to delegate. You don’t want to be sweating away at the stove yourself, you should be out there hosting. Bring in the caterers and save yourself the stress and time of trying to do this yourself and thus risk not having fun at your own party. And then, you are free to make sure that the event runs as smoothly as possible.

 

THE IDEAL SHOES TO KEEP A SPRING IN YOUR STEP THIS SEASON

The British weather is living up to its fickle, restless reputation right now. Such is Spring’s current state of flux and fluctuation that it’s impossible to choose a shoe that will be suitable for one day, let alone a whole season. Indeed, often the same shoe you step out in will have become totally inappropriate for the occasion by the time you’re walking home. Something durable, versatile and flexible then, to see us through ‘till Summer. With this in mind, here are the IDEAL shoes to keep a spring in your step this season.

FLAT FOOT FORWARD

Ah, flat shoes. To some, uncomfortable, unstylish, and too casual. But to those in the know, the sheer variety – dolly shoes, gladiators, espadrilles, ballet flats, this list goes on – makes them an unpredictable season’s perfect shoe choice. Flats are ideal for the warmer seasons, allowing your feet to breathe and feel comfortable, offering support whilst still keep you light on your feet; the even distribution of pressure across the foot one in the plus column over something like a stiletto. Just be sure to buy a pair of flat shoes with good insole support, as a thin insole can make you feel like you’re walking barefoot. Not what you want.

COURT CLASS

A shoe style that became uber-popular after Victoria Beckham introduced it in her Spring/Summer ’17 collection, one of the common, enduring styles on catwalks from fashion week is a court shoe with a high vamp. With a shoe like this you can’t go wrong; it looks like a boot, and yet is still classed as a court shoe. Versatility personified in footwear form, for sure. When there’s a distinct chill in the air at the tail end of late Spring evenings, the high vamped court shoe will be your reassuring companion.

GLAM-DALS

Changeable weather is a double sided coin, and as the cold has been covered above, some lip service needs to be paid to the warmer side of Spring. Such a time calls for embracing the first shoots of sunshine, so drag out last year’s sandals and slip on a floral maxi dress that billows in the wind for maximum effect. If you’re not keen on recycling last year’s Summer favourites, then refresh your wardrobe and treat yourself to a new pair of glittery sandals, such as those from Majesty by Paradox London Pink. Go for a champagne fabric with diamanté details on the toe straps, preferably channeling those trending ice cream hues of green, purple, and blue, to really glam up the season.

SLING IT BACK

Once the preserve of the 9 to 5, the slingback has now fled the office and found its feet on the catwalk. Revered for its adaptability, this shoe is equally as at home adding intrigue to a suit or bringing polish to your favourite pair of jeans. As Spring regularly sees four seasons – and subsequently, four styles – in one day, you’ll want footwear which fits a range of occasions. The slingback is such a shoe.

6 IDEAL ROOFTOP & RIVERSIDE HOTSPOTS IN LONDON

0

Summer is nearly here and with temperatures set to soar, we wanted to share our shortlist of the hottest summer destinations in town. So here’s 6 IDEAL rooftop and riverside hotspots in London.

SAVAGE GARDEN, TOWER HILL

Take a walk on the dark side this summer with a visit to Savage Garden – a new dramatic sky-high destination bar opening in the City. Enter a decadent and twisted world, 12 storeys above, and far removed from the corporate streets of the city below.  A bar where the botanical becomes brutal, the atmosphere is unapologetically untamed, and the cocktail serves savage.

This all-day bar and cocktail lounge, located atop the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel London – Tower of London, boasts stunning 360-degree vistas that take in some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks including The Shard, Tower of London, The Gherkin and St. Paul’s Cathedral, but it’s much, much more than just a great view.

AVIARY, FINSBURY SQUARE

London’s hottest rooftop destination, Aviary, ten floors above Finsbury Square, offers breath-taking views of the capital’s iconic skyline, sensational cocktails and internationally renowned DJs.

Stylish sofas, retro chairs and standard lamps – not to mention its feature marble outdoor bar – bring the feel of a fashionable living space out into the open with the City skyline as your wallpaper! Plenty of heat lamps and fire pits will keep you warm and toasty when temperatures drop and as the mercury rises, the south facing spot is perfect for soaking up some sun with a cocktail, chilled glass of wine or frosty beer.

Website: aviarylondon.com

SKY GARDEN, FENCHURCH STREET 

Located 155 metres up, the spectacular Sky Garden offers a gourmet, garden oasis operated by renowned caterer rhubarb and show-stopping views across the capital and far beyond. Spread across floors 35, 36 and 37, the destination restaurants include Darwin Brasserie and fine dining Fenchurch.

Live music plays out Wednesday-Saturday at destination bar, Sky Pod. Doors open from 7pm on weekdays and 9:30pm on Saturdays. Sky Pod Bar offers the best views from Sky Garden with creative cocktails, fabulous bar snacks and sharing boards – so with a drink in hand enjoy the long summer nights in style.

Website:  skygarden.london

THE SUMMERHOUSE, MAIDA VALE

Idyllically situated on the beautiful banks of Little Venice, The Summerhouse offers superlative waterside dining and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital.

Come the summer months, the picturesque restaurant rolls back its windows to leave only leafy partitions standing between diners and the bobbing barges beside them. Decked with light oak floors, whitewashed walls, blue and white striped furnishings and a scattering of seaside artefacts – expect a chic waterside ambiance, whatever the weather.

Website: www.thesummerhouse.co

THE WATERWAY, 54 FORMOSA STREET

Boasting one of the largest outdoor spaces in the capital, The Waterway’s fully heated terrace on Regent’s Canal provides the perfect spot for al-fresco drinking and dining, come rain or shine.

Kick back with a refreshing craft beer and feast on barbecued delights from the outside kitchen or pull up a pew in the Lower Garden, available for exclusive hire, and soak up the sun in the leafy surroundings.

Website: www.thewaterway.co.uk

5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST KITCHEN APPLIANCE BRAND FOR YOU

Choosing new kitchen appliances is always a hassle. In most cases, you are probably on the lookout for a new washing machine, tumble drier, or dishwasher because the last one blew up and now you’re in a pickle. Naturally, this means you don’t have time to waste. But, rushing out and picking up the first appliance you see is always a bad idea. So, even if you are desperate for a new kitchen appliance, spend a few minutes reading the following tips. That way, you can make a more informed decision about choosing the best brand for the job.

RELIABILITY

When it comes to kitchen appliances, reliability is a major issue. Modern appliances seem to come with an inbuilt “kill switch”, which means they die around the five-year mark – usually, shortly after the expensive extended warranty you bought expires.

Not surprisingly, it makes sense to look for a brand that is known for its reliability. Some brands are more reliable than others. Cost is a factor, as you might expect, but it’s not the only factor. In truth, some brands put more effort into designing and manufacturing better quality appliances, so if you select one of these brands, you can expect an appliance to last longer than average.

The best way to determine the reliability of a brand is to start reading appliance reviews. Look on independent review sites and read verified customer reviews. Stick to reviews that are two years old or less, as quality can change over time. If you discover a lot of negative reviews about one brand, in particular, reviews that complain about poor reliability or excessive mechanical breakdowns, avoid that brand.

COST

Cost is the second-most important factor. Brands tend to fall into three tiers: budget, mid-range, and luxury. If your budget is low, look for a reliable brand in the budget sector, and so on. Always make reliability your number one objective and then select a brand at a price point you can afford.

In general terms, you get what you pay for, so always spend as much as you can afford, without going overboard.

MAINTENANCE AND PARTS

There may come a point when your kitchen appliance needs a minor repair or two. Even the most reliable brands are not 100% reliable, so it is worth taking the cost of repairs and spare parts into account.

Some brands are more expensive to repair than others. Cheap foreign import brands might be an attractive buy because they are cheap, but when you need a spare part, such as brushes for a washing machine, the cost is prohibitive. It’s a bit like cheap desktop printers – the ink cartridges often cost so much it is cheaper to buy a new printer!

Often, it’s useful to speak to repair companies before choosing a brand, as often they’ll only repair certain brands. For example, if you look at www.serviceforce.co.uk, it’s clear that finding repair services for more popular brands such as Zanussi is relatively easy, whereas if you go for a much smaller brand this could prove difficult.

By contacting repair sites, you can find out the relative cost of spare parts and service costs for different brands. This is a useful way of gauging whether a brand is a good buy – or not. Alternatively, give a local repair shop a call – such as the guys at https://www.robert-appliance.com and ask them if they can recommend a brand that is reliable and good value for money. They probably see plenty of unreliable brands, so they are in a good position to offer advice.

EXTRAS 

Some brands offer “extras” as part of their package. This could include a five-year warranty as standard, or a discount if you buy two appliances. Take this into account when making your final decision.

Kitchen appliances are often a big investment, especially the more expensive brands. It makes sense to spend a day checking out different brands. Otherwise, you could end up throwing good money after bad.

4 IDEAL CYCLING ACCESSORIES FOR 2018

 

Technology develops at an extraordinarily fast pace, and if you want your bike to keep a similar speed, it’s best to be abreast of the latest innovations in sports wear and equipment. We’re here to help and have teamed up with specialist road bikes stockist, Leisure Lakes Bikes, to take a look at some of the items which will help you be the greatest thing on two wheels this year. So, here are 4 IDEAL cycling accessories for 2018.

CYCL WINGLIGHTS

If you don’t feel confident to put your arm out to signal that you’re about to turn off a road – and let’s face it, who hasn’t felt the unnerving swerve of being put slightly off balance? – then help is at (extended) hand in the form of CYCL WingLights. These innovative LED bicycle indicators are designed just like the indicators you see on a car — they flash at the same rate as a typical vehicle and are set up with two LEDs opposite each other. Simply fix them to your bike by either purchasing a fixed set or opting for those with solid magnetic fittings which can be removed when you desire. 

For more information: www.cycl.co.uk

GARMIN EDGE 820

The latest generation bike sat-nav from Garmin, the Edge 820 is the perfect companion to each and every ride. Not only does the device calculate a cycle-friendly route to whatever destination you need to visit and then guide you there with turn-by-turn directions, but it also incorporates a high-tech bike computer so that you can stay in the know about your cycling performance as you cycle. All of this on a light and nimble gadget that can easily be fastened to the middle of your handlebars and accessed via a 2.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen display which even works when it’s wet or when you’re wearing gloves. Perfect!

For more information: buy.garmin.com

SMART HELMETS

Whether it’s for measuring pulse rates, indicating your turning based intentions or for being more visible late at night, smart helmets are getting more advanced and more popular with each passing year. For those who find the solitude of a good cycle too much to bear, there are now helmets which allow you to send text messages through an extravagant and complex set of blinking and sniffing. Okay, we’re joking there; but it’s possible, and much easier than that.

For more information: gadgetsandwearables.com

SMART BIKE LOCK

Keeping things synergetic, bike locks have been getting the smart treatment in recent years, and can do all manner of crazy things aside from simply fixing your wheels to a lamp post. Bluetooth connections can now alert you to when your bike is being tampered with, and will sound an alarm to further deter would be burglars. As it’s 2018, they also look pretty damn cool too; far less cumbersome than a traditional lock.

For more information; lattis.io

 

 

RESTAURANT REVIEW: DALLOWAY TERRACE – THE IDEAL RESTAURANT FOR UPPING YOUR INSTAGRAM GAME THIS SPRING

London’s restaurant scene has gained a new category in recent years, on which Dalloway Terrace makes multiple appearances. We’ve always had most romantic, the best food, views or cocktails, but ‘most instagrammable’ is fast becoming just as desirable, with millennials stampeding Monzo-card-in-fist to hotspots purely for ‘the gram’. Destinations in this category include Mayfair’s Sketch, Queen of Hoxton’s rooftop in Shoreditch, Palm Vaults cafe in Hackney and Franks in Peckham. But its not enough to be just a pretty face to win big in this category. Like the list above, venues must offer the full package of amazing food, creative cocktails, buzzing ambiance while of course providing that unique backdrop for photos and selfies.

LOCATION

Situated at the beautiful Bloomsbury Hotel, Dalloway Terrace launched in 2016 and is a bona-fide hidden gem, the kind any tourist (or Londoner) would dream of stumbling into by chance from the hectic streets of Soho. Its a two minute walk from Tottenham Court road station, but one step inside takes you a million miles away into a beautiful indoor-outdoor space filled with wall to floor flower walls.

ATMOSPHERE

Named after the eponymous character created by Virginia Woolf, an author whose name will forever be associated with Bloomsbury, Dalloway Terrace is an elegant, poetic and quintessentially English space. Striped navy and white awnings, colourful flower walls and an abundance of candles and fairy lights make for a magically romantic space. The atmosphere is warm and inviting with lots of friendly waiting staff helpfully showing wide-eyed customers to their seats, offering blankets, water or fresh bread baskets with a genuine smile. It must be hard to be sad or moody working in such a beautiful space, after all.

FOOD

Being attached to a hotel means Dalloway Terrace is open all hours – right through from 8am for breakfast, to brunch, afternoon tea and an all day dining and dinner menu. Its won awards for brunch (meaning we’ll have to come back), but we visited one rainy evening for dinner. The menu is changed seasonally and although the weather outside stays more like December, inside the terrace, dishes sing with spring freshness. A starter of Dorset Crab on Toast with Watercress and Apple offered a wonderful marriage or sweet, light crab meat piled on a rich dark Guinness Bread. My partner’s Seared Scallops with Cauliflower  Puree, Poached Raisins and Apple was woffled down almost before I could inquire about  the taste. I’m assured it tasted as pretty as it looked.

For our main, we shared an fantastic Spring Rack of Lamb served with Spring Greens and Toasted Almonds. The lamb was served melting pink in the middle with a pot of shining lamb Jus that was somehow richer and meatier than the lamb itself, heightening and bringing together all the flavours.

Even the desserts are romantically presented, continuing with the fresh spring theme.  The Honey Mouse was feather- light but full of flavour with Cashew Nuts, Honey Mango, Ginger and Lemon Sorbet.  A NYTimber Champagne Poached English Rhubarb with Custard, Rhubarb Carpaccio and Champagne Sorbets proved another triumph of classic English flavors with a refined twist.

DRINK

The cocktail menu offers a beautiful range of pretty, pastoral sounding concoctions like the Country Fair – Beefeater Gin, Maraschino Liquur, Grapefruit Shrub, Peach Puree, Soda Water. Or Garden of England with Aperol, Sherry, Lavender Syrup, Grapefruit, Lemon and Sparkling Wine which brought the sweet and sour notes of grapefruit and Aperol together perfectly. The wine menu is varied and also offers a nice selection of artisan English sparkling wines from across the UK, for those that prefer straight up bubbles.

 

WHY GO

Fully heated in winter, this year round destination restaurant and bar offers the peace and charm of a secluded secret garden in the winter and a light, elegant and beautiful alfresco offering in the spring and summer months. After dinner, head downstairs to the grotto-like garden bar with cozy seating coves, or inside to the hotel’s stunning Bloomsbury Club Bar (pictured below).

website: www.doylecollection.com/hotels/the-bloomsbury-hotel

4 IDEAL REASONS TO VISIT TENERIFE

The largest and most popular of Spain’s glorious Canary Islands, Tenerife sits just off the coast of Morocco in the vast Atlantic Ocean. A relatively short flight from most UK airports, the island boasts white and black sand beaches that bask in year-round sunshine and temperatures that average 25 degrees.

With a dramatic volcanic landscape, a buzzing nightlife scene and gorgeous beaches, it’s not surprising that, on average, 10 million visitors choose to head to this holiday hotspot every year.  From families and couples to nature-lovers and adventure-seekers this is a destination with something for everyone. Here are 4 of our top reasons to visit this idyllic Spanish island this summer.

A NATURE LOVERS PARADISE

For committed nature enthusiasts, or those who simply relish breathtaking scenery, Tenerife’s magnificent Mount Teide National Park is an absolute must. The world’s third highest volcano, Mount Teide’s peak towers an incredible 3,718 metres above sea level and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The otherwordly lunar landscape formed by molten lava, makes this a truly unique spot for exploring. You can even get a birds-eye-view from Mount Teide’s cable car, which offers an incredible vantage point of the whole island.

If you’re more interested in what lies below the waves than towers above them, a ride aboard Tenerife’s Submarine Safari is a can’t-miss. Descend to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean on the Sub Fun Cinco submarine and enjoy a close-up view of the vivid marine ecosystem that thrives off the island’s shores.

FABULOUS ACCOMMODATION

When it comes to world-class accommodation, Tenerife doesn’t disappoint, with countless options to fit all tastes and budgets. Among some of the best are CLC World’s Tenerife resorts. Each of the six sublime CLC World Tenerife properties on the island, including CLC Paradise Tenerife, delivers sumptuous accommodation, first-class amenities, fun teen and kids’ clubs and a selection of fine dining spots.

THE WORLD’S BEST WATERPARK (ACCORDING TO TRIPADVISER) 

With its balmy temperatures and almost perennial sunshine, Tenerife is the ideal place for a water park and according to Tripadviser, Siam Park– Tenerife’s largest and most popular water park- is the best in the world!  Boasting flumes, slides and pulse-pounding rides, the Thai-themed attraction has even the biggest thrill-seekers covered. Prefer a more laid-back vibe? You can opt to float along meandering rivers, take a leisurely stroll through the park’s lush tropical gardens, or just lie back and relax on the park’s sandy beach.

WORLD-CLASS STARGAZING

Set between the unlit Sahara desert and the vast Atlantic, the skies above Tenerife are almost completely untainted by light pollution. This plus, its clean air, year-round good weather and high altitudes, make Tenerife (along with Hawaii and Chile), one of the best stargazing locations on the planet.   So much so that, for the last 43 years, one of the world’s leading observatories – the Canary Islands Institute of Astrophysics – has been situated there.  Get ready to be starstruck!