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10 IDEAL SECOND HAND FAMILY CARS

Editorial Team
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10 IDEAL SECOND HAND FAMILY CARS

Shopping for a high-quality second-hand car is never easy. There are boxes to be ticked, preferences to pander to and a bank manager to please. Yes indeed, all these pitfalls have the potential to be a pain in the proverbial backside. But it’s not as if the market for second-hand cars is in any way limited – it’s actually quite the opposite. And with such a wide range of options, the paradox of choice can be more debilitating than a flat tyre. With tens of thousands of cars to choose from, where to start?

Best then, to defer to the experts – those who know what safety, reliability and value for money are all about. So if you’re looking to pick up the kind of second hand car you can count on, here are 10 IDEAL second hand family cars.

FORD FOCUS

A reasonable, reliable option, and that’s what it’s all about, right? Bag yourself a decent Ford Focus; it’s a winner of multiple awards and a five-star crash test rating, it’s everything a good family car should be.

Read: 5 reasons why buying a second hand car is the better choice in 2021

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

If you can find a decent Golf at a reasonable price, there’s not really much point looking any further. In terms of reliability and long-term value for money, the VW Golf really is in a class of its own. It’s also a joy to drive.

FORD MONDEO DIESEL

Ford gets two entries to the list, and for a very good reason. The diesel variants of the Ford Mondeo are perhaps the best of the bunch to go for if looking for a family car, which delivers great fuel economy along with all the usual conveniences and safety features.

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

The Passat is an outstanding and surprisingly affordable family car that’s also masquerading as a luxury ride. Spacious, safe as can be and capable of deceptively powerful performance, a well-priced Passat represents an investment opportunity not to be overlooked.

TOYOTA CAMRY

Arguably the workhorse to end all workhorses, the Toyota Camry is no less than a legendary piece of engineering across the United States. Pick up a decent Toyota Camry cover to protect your investment and you’ll also be looking at impressive resale value.

Read: 6 IDEAL things to consider before buying a second hand car

SKODA OCTAVIA

The Octavia is the kind of car that delivers exponentially more than you would ever expect for this kind of money. It may not be particularly luxurious or mind-blowing in terms of technology, but it’s nonetheless a great family car and an absolute bargain.

Read: 4 IDEAL luxury cars to buy that are best to get secondhand

SKODA SUPERB

The same also going for the Superb, which ups the ante with things like climate control, touch screen entertainment and a nifty storage space for your umbrella.

HONDA CIVIC

Another absolutely legendary workhorse for families across the US, the Honda Civic typically experiences massive depreciation whenever a new model is released. Hence, outstanding older models can be picked up for next to nothing.

KIA CEED

The great thing about the Ceed is that if you pick one up that’s less than seven years old, it’ll still be covered by the initial transferable seven-year warranty. It’s also just a brilliant family car…period.

MAZDA 6

Last up, the Mazda 6 is roomy, powerful and surprisingly economical. You might pick up on a few squeaks and rattles when checking out old models, but it’s a small price to pay for this kind of value for money.

4 IDEAL WAYS TO FIND TEMPORARY STAFF ONLINE

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL WAYS TO FIND TEMPORARY STAFF ONLINE

With the World Cup just around the corner, and sunny, slurry weekends often lurching into the week proper, the likelihood of impromptu sickies looks set to rise. And over the course of the summer, if you run a business, there’s bound to come a time when temporary staff will be the best solution; a short-term alleviation of pressure when backs are to the wall and numbers are down. And where once a simple sign in the window would do, there are now myriad ways to get your S.O.S out there quickly and effectively. With this in mind, here are 4 IDEAL ways to find temporary staff online.

USE AN AGENCY

Whether you’re in the pub trade, run a restaurant or are a small-time retailer, there are plenty of agencies out there who can source staff for your needs. A temporary staffing website can provide you with access to large pools of talent waiting for the next opportunity to get that little bit of extra work in.

With a staffing agency, you can see workers who are trustworthy and have been pre-vetted, available to fill in shifts with only a few hours’ notice and at any time of day, any day of the week. On the best staffing sites, profiles will be available detailing each candidate’s experience. What’s more, agency staff tend to have everything taken care of by the agency in terms of insurance and pay, so there is little added paperwork. 

USE SOCIAL MEDIA

Chances are that a large number of your staff are active on social media. Although scouring their pages for evidence of a night out on a day they look particularly bleary is just downright creepy, and social media can often be a burden for managers, it can be a great asset too.

There are plenty of local groups on Facebook serving major cities where people are post seeking out job opportunities or offering their services. Why not post an ad in one of these communities? In addition to this, you could have your staff share a Facebook post which their friends will see, sending out a call for back up. This tactic works better if you employ younger staff, as this demographic is more likely to both be most active on social media and be seeking work.

CONSIDER PAST CANDIDATES

When you’re hiring for a full-time position, you will probably receive hundreds of submissions for just a couple of jobs. If you have already interviewed a few good candidates who weren’t quite the best, why not reach out to them again and offer them the temporary work? If they don’t value their pride, they may just take you up on the offer. 

ADVERTISE ON JOB SITES

If you know in advance that you’re going to have some temporary vacancies coming up in the future, why not advertise them on job sites such as indeed.co.uk or reed.co.uk? This (relatively) old-fashioned way of recruiting staff represents a tried and tested method with broad reach and engagement.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO AVOID A CAR ACCIDENT

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO AVOID A CAR ACCIDENT

Picture this; the open road and sunshine on the windscreen. Bruce Springsteen is on the car radio, imploring us to roll down those windows, and as we drive off into the sunset, a sense of endless possibilities flutters in our hearts. But wait, what’s this? It’s not all fun and games? Some concentration is required? Indeed, whilst not inevitable, road accidents can and do happen, and according to research, are most likely in the summer months. It’s best then, to be alert, savvy and safe and with that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to avoid a car accident.

KNOW ABOUT THE MOST COMMON ROAD ACCIDENTS

Educating yourself about the most common road accidents and what causes them may help you to avoid them. Knowledge can lead to prevention after all. The AA reports that speeding, getting distracted by texting or food, and reckless driving are the top three, all of which are easily preventable.

DRIVE WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDE

Part of driving safely is all about developing the right attitude to the road. Not every traffic light turns red just for you, not every cyclist gets in your way on purpose and not every speed camera is out to get you. Speed limits are actually there for a reason, not just to slow you down. We all lead busy lives, and there’s no point in getting impatient and frustrated behind the wheel. This only leads to incidents. We say – and as any reputable car accident lawyer will tell you, too – keep zen to avoid road rage. If you know you need to be somewhere, allow more time for your journey so you don’t rush and get stressed out. Also, remember that road rules are their to keep you and other people safe, so follow them.

KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE ROAD

The radio. Kids screaming in the back and their little heads suddenly popping up in between the front seats. Your whatsapp messenger going off. That cute dress in the shop window.There are hundreds of distractions for drivers everyday and it’s especially easy to lose your focus if you do the same, mundane drive everyday. According to research, distracted drivers are responsible for the majority of road accidents in the UK, often leading to serious injuries and fatalities. So keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions. Be proactive and tell your kids why it’s important for them to behave when you’re behind the wheel. Turn your phone on to silent. Basically, do anything you can think of to minimise distractions when you’re driving.

KEEP YOUR HANDS ON THE WHEEL

Part of overcoming distracted driving is all about keeping your hands on the wheel. Fiddling with the sat nav or trying to squash the bug that just came in through the car window means you’re going to take your hands off the wheel. Indeed, you were taught in driving school to keep your hands on 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions for a reason. Keeping two hands on the wheel means you have more control over the car in case an emergency or accident should arise, helping you to avoid it.  

DON’T TAILGATE

We’ve already mentioned that the most common type of crash in the UK is being hit from the rear. Lesson? Don’t tailgate. Driving too closely behind the car in front is a dangerous driving offence which could end with serious consequences. Not only is the fine for tailgating currently set at £100 and three penalty points on your licence, you could cause a serious accident or worse, a fatality. It’s just not worth it.

4 IDEAL WAYS BUSINESSES CAN OVERCOME ROAD WORKS

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL WAYS BUSINESSES CAN OVERCOME ROAD WORKS

British drivers are all too familiar with roadworks and subsequent traffic jams. In 2016, there were over 1.35 million traffic jams across the UK, costing the economy approximately £9 billion. Indeed, three quarters of small businesses say that road works have a negative impact on their business whether it is wasting valuable time in traffic, reducing sales or loss of earnings.

While the Local Government Association (LGA) have been calling for action by the government to limit the amount of road works that are carried out across the country, to reduce the risk of gridlock unnecessary carbon emissions and fuel, in the meantime there are some things that businesses can do to reduce the impact roadworks have on their earnings. With the help of Long term van hire specialists, here are 5 IDEAL ways businesses can overcome road works.

CHANGE THE LOCATION OF YOUR WORKERS

Take this opportunity to raise the profile of your business in another area of the city. If your business is all about retail and selling things, consider renting a market stall or a pop-up shop space. If you’re a restaurant or cafe, host some supper clubs or open a temporary pop up restaurant. After all, pop-up events can boost revenue,  build buzz and increase brand awareness.

If you’re an office-based business, simply ask your employees to work from home so they don’t get stuck in traffic on the way to work. Not only will this maximise the time they spend actually doing their jobs by minimising time spent on the road, it may make you question why you have an office in the first place.

EXPLOIT THE SITUATION

This is an opportune moment to consider installing upgrades or redecorating. If your office is a dull and uninspiring place, now is the time to make some changes. A slew of research reveals how everything from artwork on the walls to desks with lots of natural light boosts productivity and it has been said that a well-designed office can increase your productivity by about 20%. If you’re a restauranteur who has been dreaming of upgrading your kitchen, do it now. You could even think about doing a relaunch after the road works have finished, unveiling your new look or menu.

TURN TO THE INTERNET

Use your website, social media, and e-mail marketing to let your clients know that you’re still here and open for business. Provide your customers with an enticing incentive to brave the traffic jam and come to your store. If you’re a restaurant, you could offer a 2-4-1 meal or giveaway a free cocktail or bottle of wine. If you’re in retail and sell through your website, boost online sales by offering a discount or provide a discount coupon that customers can use in store.

PUT UP TEMPORARY SIGNAGE

Perhaps the simplest way to overcome road works is to put up some temporary signage. By doing this you can let customers know you’re still there. You could also encourage customers to circumvent the road works by providing a different route to your shop.

4 IDEAL WHITE ACCESSORIES FOR SUMMER

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL WHITE ACCESSORIES FOR SUMMER

Fashions come and go in a seemingly never ending blur of what’s hot, what’s not and what’s tepid, and colour choice is no exception. Each year brings a new palette (sarcoline anyone?) but let’s face it, if you want to stay on safe, unshakeably ‘in’ territory, then monochrome is where it’s at. Indeed, we’re of the opinion that white never goes out of fashion, and truly comes into its own in the warmer months. You can bet that come summer, we will all be wearing white trousers, white dresses and donning white accessories with abandon. With this in mind, here are 4 IDEAL white accessories for summer. 

WHITE FOOTWEAR

White shoes are not particularly practical – accumulating the smog and smut of the city with every journey to the Sainsbury’s local – but, and here’s the important part, they look really good. This (as with every) year virtually every fashion retailer will include it in their range, and for good reason. They are timeless, ubiquitous and surprisingly versatile. JD Williams, for instance, is currently stocking over 100 different styles of white shoes, sandals, and boots.

Of course, if you go for white footwear, you’ll need to properly look after them to secure their gleaming appeal. Because no one wants a pair of off white lugz, after all.

WHITE BELTS 

This year, long, quite loose fitting blouses are very much on trend, looking particularly good when worn with the baggier style of jean that is so much on trend right now. Equally, these longer blouses look especially good when worn with the back in vogue, high-waisted trouser. Although these blouses are best worn loose, deploying a belt outside your blouse can create a different style of outfit. And variety is the name of the game in fashion.

A narrow white or silver belt – neutral enough shades to go with practically any colour – is ideal for this job, allowing you to create a fuller, yet semi-tailored look that shows off your waist nicely. 

WHITE HANDBAGS

If you do opt to wear white shoes, try to find a handbag to match; a really classic look on the catwalks this season. This year, bowler and messenger bags are very much in fashion and fortunately, these look really good with most types of outfits. Who ever thought fashion could be so simple?

WHITE JEWELLERY 

To finish off your look, keep an eye out for white jewellery. Think mother-of-pearl pieces or pendants and rings that feature clear birthstones. An equally chic accessory is a wrist watch with a white face and strap. Just be sure to keep things simple; clarity is the watchword here, and adding too many conflicting colours and different tones is going to lead to a confused look.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO MAKE YOUR INSTAGRAM FEED LOOK AMAZING WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO MAKE YOUR INSTAGRAM FEED LOOK AMAZING WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

Instagram is now one of the most frequently used social media channels in the world, with around 60 million images and a massive 1.6 billion likes posted daily. What’s more, the platform offers aspirational young photographers, creatives, dreamers and fashionistas a way to share their passions and talents. And in some cases, it can even lead to full time employment and – whisper it – fame. However, keeping your Instagram profile updated doesn’t always come cheap. So with that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to make your Instagram feed amazing without breaking the bank.

DON’T BELIEVE ALL THE HYPE

First things first, remember to keep it real. Don’t take everything you see on Instagram literally. Most likely, that chance shot was carefully choreographed, that natural look primed with a clutch of unnatural products, that lunch got cold before it looked just right, and that inspirational quote didn’t come from the Dalai Lama, but in fact a bot from Russia.

Many who appear to be living the Instagram dream are, quite simply put, faking it. With cleverly timed and captioned posts, not to mention the countless image editing apps out there, it’s possible for anyone to look like they’re living the high life, when behind the scenes, things are mundane and monotone.

Tanya Goodin, author of ‘OFF: Your Digital Detox for a Better Life’, told the Independent, “We know that spending too much time on social media can have a negative effect on mental health and this is just another example of how the relentless pressure to have a perfect ‘Instagrammable’ life can get seriously out of hand and cause real problems in real life.”

So, bear this in mind when you’re choosing who to follow as well as when you’re building your own community. There’s nothing wrong with exercising a bit of creative license, but keep your posts as honest as possible, whenever possible. Speaking of which…

LIVE WITHIN YOUR MEANS

If you choose the Instagram life, then please, live within your means. Is a payday loan really worth a pretty picture? A lifetime of debt equal to a few, paltry likes? Most certaintly not. There have been recent stories of debt and financial ruin of wannabe Instagram stars, which should serve as a warning. Indeed, a recent newspaper report revealed that one woman racked up £7,256 debt after trying to become ‘instagram famous’. So, ask yourself it you can afford it, and if it’s really worth it, before you spend serious money in the name of courting followers.

FIND YOUR NICHE

Whether you’re into crochet or watching videos of kinetic sand (yes that’s a thing), there’s a feed for you. Ok, you don’t have to be that specific, but many of the most successful accounts have a clear focus. The great thing about a niche Instagram feed is that it’s narrow in scope and therefore easy to identify with your target followers, which means it’s more simple to monetize your feed through working with specific brands looking to target your niche.

FLY IN STYLE FOR LESS

Travel is one of the most popular instagram passion points but can also be one of the most expensive to pursue. One way to get to your desired destination and make the journey there truly instagramable is by using discounted private jet charters (yes, really!).

In recent years, travel on private jets has become much more accessible due to innovations in charter business models and emerging technology. Mobile phone apps that allow travelers to book private jets now sometimes offer seats on empty leg flights and let passengers share jets. These advances mean that it can be much cheaper to fly privately. And you can evoke an image of some serious opulence and bling in the process.

SEARCH FOR BARGAINS

If you’re serious about making your feed look the business (and be your business), a little creative thinking can go a long way. Being savvy and keeping a keen eye open for promotions and bargains can help provide valuable material for your feed. If you’re a foodie, for example, seeking out restaurant soft launches or set lunch promotions can be a great way to eat at new hot-spots for discounted prices. Likewise, if you’re more of a fashionista, vintage and sample sales offer a means to get your hands on designer clothes at affordable prices.

6 IDEAL TIPS FOR A HEALTHY AND SAFE SUMMER HOLIDAY

Editorial Team
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6 IDEAL TIPS FOR A HEALTHY AND SAFE SUMMER HOLIDAY

The summer holidays will soon be here and thoughts will turn to family barbeques and days out. However, the summer can also bring some nuisances and dangers such as annoying bugs and sun burn. Summer is meant to be relaxing (for the kids at least) and the last thing you want is to be surrounded with children moaning about being hot and itchy for 6 weeks. So we spoke to the experts at Health Plus and came up with these 6 IDEAL tips for a health and safe summer holiday.

HAVE AN EMERGENCY BAG HANDY

If you’re planning to spend your time out and about in the sunshine, then it’s vital you’re sufficiently prepared and armed with a bag of summer essentials. This bag should include a metal or plastic (free from BPA) water bottle, a hat to cover little heads during the hottest hours of the afternoon and a bottle of sun cream (to be liberally applied throughout the course of the day) and a small first aid kit complete with antihistamines, alcohol wipes, and plasters for inevitable cuts and scrapes whilst playing outside.

STAY COOL AT NIGHT

Trying to sleep when it’s hot outside can be tricky, especially for little ones. Some easy ways to stay cool at night include draping a wet towel over an open window to bring down the room temperature, using light cotton bedding and having a cool shower before bed.  You could even put all your families sheets in the fridge or freezer  (in a plastic cover so they don’t get wet) as lying under freshly chilled sheets helps your temperature to drop into sleep mode. If that seems like too much work, why not fill a hot water bottle with ice water and place on the ‘cooling points’ of your body, such as behind your knees or ankles.

USE BUG-REPELLING NATURAL ESSENTIAL OILS

Using essential oils is a natural way to repel insects, and the two most effective oils are citronella and clove. Essential oils aren’t suitable for undiluted contact with the skin, so mix a few drops into a base oil or your body lotion and apply like a moisturiser for an effective, natural bug repellent.  Citronella garden candles are handy to dot around the garden or home too.

REMOVE BUG ATTRACTORS

Standing water is a haven for mosquitoes to lay their eggs in. Look around your garden and, where possible, get rid of any gathered water in buckets, kids’ pools and gutters.

Read: Common summer pests and what to do about them

AVOID HOLIDAY TUMMY

Stomach upsets can ruin a holiday so check if you are safe to drink local water at your destination and always wash your hands. Stock up on ‘good tummy bacteria’ like probiotics before you go away and always carry some kids imodium – just in case.

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

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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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

Editorial Team
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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

Editorial Team
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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

Editorial Team
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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

Editorial Team
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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

Editorial Team
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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

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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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

Editorial Team
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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!

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