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4 IDEAL CAMPERVAN SITES TO VISIT AROUND THE WORLD

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL CAMPERVAN SITES TO VISIT AROUND THE WORLD

An increasing number of Brits are changing their holidaying habits and choosing a staycation on home soil as opposed to an overseas vacation. But this is nothing new to the country’s many motorhome owners. It’s an opportunity to take your ‘home’ on wheels to any location you wish; and the beauty of it? You aren’t squashed into a small tent with the rest of your family, and if it rains, it doesn’t matter because you have a roof over your head.

But with so many places claiming to be the best, deciding which sites to visit can take time. Just as motorhomes range from basic campervans and trailers to those RVs that are so fancy they give us weep-inducing envy, so do motorhome campsites.

From basic wild camping sites and family holiday parks to swish sites with pools or hot tubs, passing through sites settled into or next to forests, mountains, beaches and lakes on the way, we’ve teamed up with Audi dealership, Vindis, to give you our 4 IDEAL campervan sites to visit around the world.

Fields End Water Caravan Park, Lodges & Fishery

One of the most luxurious on our list, this adults-only (nope, nothing salubrious going on here – sadly) campsite has a five-star rating and is located in the beautiful heart of Cambridgeshire. Offering 59 touring pitches, 14 tent pitches and six luxury self-catering lodges equipped with hot tubs, it is a must-visit for those of you who appreciate a splash of opulence. For the fishing enthusiasts, there are two on-site fishing lakes to enjoy, with guaranteed peace and quiet thanks to their adults-only policy. Dogs are very much welcome, with plenty of expansive Fenland countryside to enjoy all year round.

For those of you travelling with larger than life campervans, RVs and motorhomes, Fields End Water also offers extra-large pitches. Rest assured the relaxing site can act as a great base to explore Cambridgeshire.

Hendra Holiday Park

Staying in the UK, for families of all ages, Hendra Holiday Park is a must-visit. Situated in Newquay, Cornwall, there is something fun for everyone. Surrounded by countryside and only minutes away from the beach, the park has 500 touring pitches, 500 more tent pitches and 320 holiday homes available for hire. You’ll also be pleased to hear that their toilet block facilities for campers have been awarded the ‘5* Loo of the Year’ award each year – reason alone to visit, we think!

In addition to their luxury loos, their facilities are top notch. The park has soft play, a pool complex, full entertainment both indoor and outdoor for all weathers, and several bars and restaurants. And that’s just while on site; the countryside and beaches offer even more fun for all the family.

Ocean Lakes Family Campground

Winner of the ‘RC Park of the Year’ award, Ocean Lakes is well worth the much romanticised American road trip – ranked in the top 1% of campground in America. Pretty impressive, we think. And it’s not hard to see why; situated on the oceanfront in South Carolina, USA, and stretching across one mile of oceanfront, you can camp in amongst this beautiful terrain here all year round.

With early booking available, Ocean Lakes allows you to reserve one of their 650 pitches up to 18 months in advance. With plenty of activities on offer, it’s fair to say your kids won’t be bored. From basketball and volleyball to horseshoes and outdoor pools, the fun never stops, it seems.

The list of things to do is almost limitless – located in a local area that offers national award-winning shows, more than 100 golf courses, and is home to Brookgreen Gardens — named one of the top 10 public gardens in America. It’s definitely worth taking a trip in your RV down to South Carolina.

Campsite Naturista ‘El Portús’

Head over to the Spanish region of Murcia, and soak up as much Spanish culture, sun and sea as you wish – as the Campsite Naturista ‘El Portús’ looks out onto blue seas and clifftops. With over 350 touring pitches available, there are also 60 permanent pitches up for grabs and 80 accommodation units for hire.

Offering two swimming pools – one indoor and one outdoor – as well as the nearby ocean, there’s plenty of opportunity to get your swimsuit on. Wi-fi is available, and there are snack bars, a pizzeria and a restaurant on site so you can take a break from any cooking duties on your trip.

So where will your next adventure take you? When looking for your next vacation spot, narrow your search down to your requirements to ensure you get the best site for your needs. Whether it’s child friendly, adult only or super luxurious, there will be the perfect site out there for you to visit – and don’t be afraid to venture across the ocean and enjoy the open road on foreign soil.

4 IDEAL TIME-SAVING HACKS IDEAL FOR CITY DWELLERS

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL TIME-SAVING HACKS IDEAL FOR CITY DWELLERS

Living in a city can be incredible: you have everything you need right on your doorstep, and there’s always something exciting around the corner, whatever night of the week it is. But once you factor in all the time you spend working, commuting, doing household chores, exercising and sleeping, there can be surprisingly little time left over to actually have fun exploring the city. Time is money, and very much of the essence, so, here are 4 IDEAL time-saving hacks for city dwellers.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT

The average British worker spends 54 minutes a day commuting. If you take public transport into work, then you probably see your commute as a time to be endured, rather than enjoyed. But using that dead time to do something productive could free up time later, and help your commute to pass more quickly.

If you travel on a train or bus service with free Wi-Fi, then your commute is a valuable time to get other tasks sorted, so spend your morning journey preparing your to-do list for the day ahead. Apps like Wunderlist will let you organise your professional and personal to-dos, and will even send you reminders about upcoming events during the day. You can even share your to-do list with others, meaning you can organise collaborative tasks with your colleagues, friends and flatmates — all before you’ve even arrived at work.

LET SOMEONE ELSE TAKE CARE OF THE LAUNDRY

The average Brit spends a whopping 102 minutes a week washing, hanging and folding laundry. And if you live in a flat without a washing machine, then that figure is likely to be much higher, as it doesn’t account for the time you have to spend trudging down to the laundrette each week.

But there’s no need to let this precious time go to waste, as there are services who will do all the hard work for you. Laundrapp’s wash and fold laundry service will collect, clean and deliver your laundry to your door, meaning you’ll have more time to spend going out and enjoying yourself (or sleeping, if that’s more your thing). Plus, you won’t have to deal with laundry racks full of wet clothes anymore; an ideal space and storage solution if you live in a compact city flat or studio.

AUTOMATE YOUR SHOPPING LIST

If you’re still writing your shopping list out by hand and taking the physical trip to the supermarket each week to do your shop, then consider how much time you could save by doing your shopping online. Most leading supermarkets have an online store that lets you save your weekly shopping list and get it delivered directly to your door. So, you won’t have to spend time each week writing a list and going to the shops — just choose a delivery time, and click send.

If you like to cook, but find that planning recipes and buying all the ingredients takes up too much time, then try a service that lets you cook without the hassle. Recipe box kits, like Gousto, allow you to pick from a list of tasty meal options, and then deliver all the ingredients you’ll need straight to your door. That means you can get on with your cooking as soon as you get home, and you won’t need to worry about dashing out to the shops because you forgot something essential.

PREP YOUR WEEKNIGHT MEALS IN ADVANCE

Even with a recipe box subscription, there’s still likely to be evenings where you’re just too tired or busy  to cook from scratch. So, it’s a good idea to cook a few back-up dinners in bulk and then freeze them for later. This way, all you’ll have to do when you get home is pop your homemade ready meal in the microwave or oven, and then you can spend the rest of your evening doing whatever you like.

Soups, curries, casseroles, pasta sauces and poultry dishes can all be cooked in bulk, and they make great meal prep options as they can be frozen for up to three months. This selection of freezer-friendly recipes from GoodFood should give you plenty of inspiration for quick midweek meals.

 

6 SECRET(ISH) PLACES IN EUROPE FOR YOUR IDEAL DESTINATION WEDDING

Editorial Team
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6 SECRET(ISH) PLACES IN EUROPE FOR YOUR IDEAL DESTINATION WEDDING

Do you daydream of a wedding with a difference, that will be remembered by you and your guests for years to come? Are you thinking about getting married abroad, somewhere unique and completely unforgettable? From caves to castles and everything that lies between, we’ve rounded up 6 secret(ish) places in Europe for your IDEAL destination wedding.

BENAGIL CAVE, PORTUGAL

Ever thought about getting hitched in a cave – nature’s very own chapel? Well it’s about time you did. Voted as one of the coolest caves, The Benagil Sea Cave (which is actually a grotto) is a place of unsurpassed beauty. At the right time of day, the sun beams through the dome, illuminating the the walls and casting incredible shadows on the sand below. That, combined with the chorus of lapping waves as your wedding soundtrack creates a mesmerising scene. To get to the cave, your wedding carriage will be a local fishing boat,  the only way to get to the cave, and what a way to arrive at your wedding, we think.

The Algar de Benagil cave I © Bruno Carlos/WikiCommons

CAVE BAR MORE, CROATIA

The Cave Bar in Lapad, housed underneath Hotel More, is just cool. The cave was only unearthed once the construction of the upscale boutique hotel was underway. Set over three levels, it can accommodate up to 60 guests and offers stunning views of the sea, with a glass floor showcasing the scenery in all its glory.

LAKE BLED CHURCH, SLOVENIA

While weddings take place in the town’s civil registry office, a blessing can be arranged at Slovenia’s Lake Bled chapel. This beautiful baroque church, decorated with frescoes and golden altar pieces, is absolutely stunning. Wedding guests are rowed across the lake to an island, where the chapel’s stone staircase awaits. Local custom dictates that the groom carry their bride up the 99 steps, preferably without pausing for breath (or a kiss).

After the wedding, you’re asked to honour the local tradition of ringing the church wishing bell. The gorgeous medieval castle and crisp, clear lake is a picture perfect backdrop for your wedding day. All great reasons to get married here, and none finer than the fact that Slovenia is the only country in the world with the world ‘love’ in it.

OXARARFOSS WATERFALL, ICELAND

The land of ice and fire is famous for many things, especially its waterfalls. Oxararfoss is a stunning waterfall located in Thingvellir National Park, and local legend says that on the night of New Year’s Eve that the water from the river Oxara turns to wine. So, if you’re planning to get married on the final day of the year, here, you’ll save a fortune on drinks!

COCHEM CASTLE, GERMANY

Nearly every bride wants her wedding to be like a fairytale, so why not celebrate your marriage in a castle? Cochem is a quintessential German medieval town, complete with it’s very own neo-gothic castle. You could even go the whole hog and celebrate with a medieval style feast – and all the imbibing, debauchery and good cheer associated with  the meal and occasion.

VICTORIA BATHS, MANCHESTER

Get married in a swimming pool? Yes, really.  A grade two listed building, this old Edwardian swimming pool is an absolutely amazing wedding and reception venue. With original features and striking architecture, the swimming pool complex has three main pool areas – perhaps one for each stage of the event? 

Originally, the first was for first class men, the next for second class men and the third for women. Fortunately, times have changed, and such a ridiculous system is now in the past. With such a choice of different spaces and backdrops for your ideal wedding, from the grandeur of the Gala Pool to the Superintendent’s Flat, Victoria Baths in Manchester provides an unforgettable setting for your big day.

7 IDEAL HISTORICAL HIDDEN SITES IN LONDON

Editorial Team
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7 IDEAL HISTORICAL HIDDEN SITES IN LONDON

There’s never a shortage of things to do and see in London. After all, the city has a history that dates back to over 2000 years ago – and a whole lot has happened during this time.  One way to take in some of the history is with a sightseeing ticket like London Pass. It gives you free entry to all the top attractions and includes a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus tour – find out more about the London Pass here. 

While the more obvious attractions are well worth seeing, the city is full of historical sites that are easily overlooked and often hidden in plain sight. So if you’ve already toured the tower, witnessed westminster and paraded around the palace, then it’s time to go beyond the tourist filled sites. Here’s 7 IDEAL historical hidden sites in London you’ve got to see.

TINY POLICE STATION

Every day hordes of tourists and commuters pass by this blink and you’ll miss it station – but next time you find yourself in Trafalgar Square, head to the south-east corner to find this hidden treasure. This tiny police station has been around since 1926 and was built from a hollowed-out lamp post to help policemen keep an eye on protests, once upon a time a favourite pastime in Trafalgar Square.

With a direct line to Scotland Yard, this police station can surprisingly hold two prisoners at one time. Although today it’s used as a broom cupboard for the Westminster Council, Britain’s smallest police station is the ideal size and location for a selfie.  

THE CAT & MUTTON PUB

This now gastro pub was once a popular haunt for pig breeders bringing their stock down to Smithfield for slaughter. These guys and the locals use to like engaging in a game of swinging swine – and no, we’re not talking about some lewd act. This game involved grabbing a pig by its tail and hurling it as far as you can. Every week an unfortunate pig that was being herded through London Fields to the meat market would be seized and taken to the pub. Here it would have its tail greased or lathered in soap and then the locals would grab the pig by the tail, swing it round their head and throw it into the fields. Whoever succeeded in swinging it around their head for the longest would win a prize. This popular game was played for over 300 years. Today The Cat & Mutton no longer condones pig swinging games, but you can grab a beer and throw some pork scratchings down your throat instead.

Cat & Mutton Pub | © Ewan Munro/Wikicommons

SOUTHWARK GATEWAY NEEDLE

There’s a lot of debate on the actual origin of this spike. Some believe it to be a giant sundial, others say that its tilt of 19.5 degrees points to The City Church of St Magnus the Martyr. However, we prefer telling people a more gory story. According to urban legend, it has come to represent the point on the old bridge where the heads of traitors were once impaled on long wooden spears, warning anyone entering London looking to cause trouble, not to. Not for the squeamish, the heads were specially treated; parboiled and sautéed to ensure longevity. A poor sod was also employed as ‘keeper of the heads’ whose job was to make sure no relatives tried to take back their family members head – one of the strangest jobs in the city. 

*Speaking of The Church of St Magnus The Martyr, it’s well worth a visit in its own right. This largely forgotten and overlooked church contains a detailed model of Old London Bridge.

HIGHGATE CEMETERY

Opened in the 19th Century, Highgate Cemetery is the burial site for some of the most culturally significant people of our time, including Karl Marx, George Eliot and other prominent novelists, artists and political activists. It’s still a functioning burial site and alongside the gothic gravestones and catacombs lies some postmodern tombstones worth keeping an eye out for. Especially the headstone of Artist Patrick Caufield (1936-2005) which has the word ‘dead’ laser-cut into a six-foot slab of granite.

Patrick Caulfields Grave| © Nicholas Jackson/Wikicommons

MR JAMRACH’S TIGER

A tiger loose in London? It sounds like a made up children’s tale, to warn the city’s youngsters to be good little boys and girls. However in 1857 it actually happened. Back in the day, trading exotic animals was a lucrative business and Charles Jamrach was a well known dealer. Unfortunately, a large bengal tiger escaped from his emporium and ended up wandering down Betts Street near Tabacco Dock. The tiger came across a nine-year old boy (who tried to stroke the animal) and clamped him between his jaws. The story goes that Mr Jamrach came to the boys rescue and wrestled the boy free. There is now a statue commemorating the event at the entrance of Tobacco Dock – which is now a popular events space with all sorts of foodie events happening throughout the year.   

THE SEVEN NOSES OF SOHO

Walking through the streets of London and Soho is never dull, but for some extra intrigue, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the Seven Noses of Soho. Found protruding from the walls in incongruous and unexpected places, these are plaster of Paris reproductions of artist Rick Buckley’s nose. In a protest against the appearance of CCTV cameras and the Big Brother State, Buckley placed these casts under the noses of the cameras. The event was not publicised, so urban myths grew to explain the appearance of the noses. One story tells of the Seven Noses of Soho, which would give great fortune to those who found them all.

Arch Nose| © Colonel Warden/Wikicommons

 

41 CLOTH FAIR

Down a small street in Farringdon lies the city of London’s oldest house. Built between 1597 and 1614, it’s hard to believe this remarkable house is still standing – it survived both the Great Fire of London and The Blitz. It’s full of interesting glimpses into the past and etched with a diamond, in a set of the houses leaded windows, are the signatures of some of the houses most famous visitors including Sir Winston Churchill and the Queen Mother. Check out this post on inews.co.uk by the current owner to learn more about the fascinating history of this building.

REVIEW: HOTEL CASABLANCA NEW YORK – THE IDEAL PLACE TO STAY IN THE HEART OF TIMES SQUARE

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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REVIEW: HOTEL CASABLANCA NEW YORK – THE IDEAL PLACE TO STAY IN THE HEART OF TIMES SQUARE

Times Square. If you ask real New Yorker’s what it’s like, most will roll their eyes and say it’s a tourist trap. But others will say it’s the heart of the city. We say that – ignoring the noise and pollution – it’s a pretty impressive spectacle. The bustling square really does make you think bright lights, big city, and big possibilities. It’s a place that assaults your senses with its riot of tourists, honking car horns, shouting vendors, flashing neon lights and giant digital billboards. Times Square is brash, bright and unforgettable.

Did you know that approximately 330,000 people pass through Times Square daily (most of them tourists)? That’s about about 42 million visitors a year and nearly 8.52 million of those people see a Broadway show. And if you’re one of those 42 million visitors to Times Square, you’ll need a hotel to rest your weary but excited head that isn’t far away. Well, look no further than Hotel Casablanca.

IDEA

An intimate European-style, family-owned boutique hotel in New York City’s most popular location; with Times Square and other famous Big Apple attractions just a stone’s throw away. What more could you want from an urban weekend hotel?

hotel-casablanca-new-york-2

LOCATION

Situated in the heart of Times Square and the city’s theatre district, it’s smack bang in the middle of Manhattan’s best sightseeing attractions, boutiques, restaurants and nightclubs. And if you need to hop in a cab or take the subway to whisk you up or downtown, that’s easy. Times Square is a major transportation hub of New York City. Many of the city’s subway lines run through the 42nd Street Times Square Station and you can easily catch a bus or airport shuttle on 42nd Street and 8th Avenue.

hotel-casablanca-5

DECOR

Like all good boutique hotels, Casablanca has it’s own identity. Inspired by the romance of the movie of the same name, this absolutely lovely New York townhouse has been artfully refurbished into a charming six story boutique hotel.  The decor is full of character and retains a rather theatrical air, which feels fitting for the hotel’s central location. Think Moroccan motifs, mirrors and mosaics, chic wooden paneling and wooden blinds.

hotel-casablanca-bedroom

ROOMS

Times Square buzzes with energy from early morning to late at night and the bright lights never get turned off. Luckily the guys at the hotel had this in mind when designing their suites, and have fitted each room with blackout blinds (thank you kindly or a perfect night’s sleep Casablanca!). The rooms are a good size with custom furnishings including old fashioned ceiling fans that make you feel like you’ve been transported back to 1942,  stylish wicker chairs and wooden window shutters.

Given the hotel’s location in the heart of Times Square, all of the rooms are surprisingly quiet, however noise levels vary depending on the type of room you have. Request a room located towards the inside of the hotel if you want a quieter night. However, this is Times Square folks and there’s a certain charm to the feeling of being amongst the action.

FOOD & DRINK

The endless coffees and pastries at this hotel are a good thing. These complimentary refreshments, alongside other treats, are available for the taking in the clubroom throughout the day. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily in Rick’s Café, featuring everything from hard-boiled eggs and whole wheat toast to mini-muffins, and of course bagels with cream cheese – this is New York after all.

hotel-casablanca-breakfast

Rick’s also hosts a wine & cheese reception every evening from 5pm-8pm and guests can enjoy live piano music on Friday nights – just try to refrain yourself from saying ‘Play it again Sam’.

If you’re after a good meal, head to on-site  restaurant Tony’s di Napoli Restaurant. If you don’t fancy Italian, worry not. Times Square alone is home to more than 200 restaurants and countless small eating establishments.

hotel-casablanca-wine-and-cheese

WHY GO?

To stay in a lovely boutique hotel right in the heart of Times Square is a surprisingly tall ask. But Casablanca is the perfect spot for tourists, sightseers, theatregoers and those on business alike. Fantastic!

For more information visit: www.casablancahotel.com

IDEAL stayed as a guest of Hotel Casablanca

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR GROWING YOUR SMALL BUSINESS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR GROWING YOUR SMALL BUSINESS

It’s not easy running a small business. It’s even tougher making it bloom. As an entrepreneur, you should always be on the lookout for opportunities to grow your company. After all, with growth comes greater exposure and profit. And that’s what’s it all about, right? To stand still, to reject innovation, and to be complacent, is to fall behind your competitors and risk losing a large percentage of your client base. Nope, now is the time to flourish. If you’re going to get ahead, look forward and think outwards. So with that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL tips for growing your small business.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR TEAM

In order to lead your business to success, it is important that you take control of your team. If you fail to inspire your workforce, you will face an uphill battle as you try to convince your employees to give you their all. As your business grows, you may end up taking on more staff members than you first imagined. Instead of allowing yourself to feel overwhelmed, you should invest in your Leadership Skills.

GET YOUR FINANCES IN ORDER

The next step is to get your company finances in order. If you are determined to take your business to the next level, you need to ensure you aren’t putting your entire operation at risk. You can avoid this by securing the services of an accountant. Working with a trained professional will allow you to re-organize your savings accounts, expand your investment portfolio, and establish clear projections for the years ahead.

IMPROVE YOUR CUSTOMER SERVICE 

Another great tip is to improve your customer service. Although you will want to draw in as many new clients as possible, it is vital that you don’t lose sight of your existing customers. The bigger your business gets, the harder it will be to offer a personal touch. However, this is no reason to give up. Why not ask your following for feedback and check in with them on a regular basis? This is a fantastic opportunity for you to find out whether or not your standards are slipping before it is too late.

MAKE GOOD USE OF TECHNOLOGY 

Along with investing in your customer service, you should also endeavour to make good use of technology. This will help you to bring your organisation into the twenty-first century. It is also a relatively quick and easy way for you to achieve your dreams of expansion. If you don’t already have a company website, now is the time to get one. You should also set up multiple social media accounts, work with online influencers, and explore the benefits of SEO management and other marketing strategies. Influencer marketing is another great way to improve your business, If you look into hiring an influencer marketing agency can really pay off in the long run.

And on a more practical level, you should ensure files, documents and other items, both physical and online, are stored safely and correctly. As times change and the majority of work moves to a more remote setting, it’s particularly important to invest in secure cloud computing.

WORK WITH OTHER ORGANISATIONS 

With any small business marketing is essential and working with trusted marketing agencies like 4site-implementation.com can really give your business a boost. However,  consider working with other organisations too. Indeed, in the world of business, while it’s likely that you’ll have a number of strong competitors, you should also have plenty of industry peers that are linked to your business, without being a threat to your client base. Try to identify these companies and approach them with mutually beneficial offers. Perhaps you could pool your marketing resources to boost your brands. Or, maybe you could club together to support a good cause. Whatever you decide, the most important thing is that you are networking and exploring your options.  

5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE A GREAT SANDWICH

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE A GREAT SANDWICH

Making the same sandwiches for lunch each day can become dull. So if your cheese and pickle sandwiches are starting to go stale then these tips are guaranteed to help you improve your lunchtime routine.

Gary Durrant is the sandwich aficionado behind The Arch London’s signature Club Sandwich, as well as the sensational sandwiches on the Royal Afternoon Tea.  These are both served with the Gary’s unique homemade crisps seasoned with salt, sage and peppercorn.

ADD SOME FLAVOUR

You can make your sandwich really stand out with just one extra ingredient. Try adding fresh herbs, a sliced hard-boiled egg or make your own quick pickles – cucumber, vinegar, oil, brown sugar, salt and pepper.

CHOOSE YOUR BREAD WISELY

The bread is the most important part of the whole sandwich. If you want to add very moist fillings then it is best to go for dry and dense bread or try flour tortillas. These will keep the ingredients fresh and moisture just right.

ADD SOME MOISTURE

For the right amount of moisture add your spread to both sides of the bread, this will also help lock in the flavour. Spread to every edge of the slice of bread to create a seal for the fillings.  Use butter, mayo, mustard, cream cheese or experiment with pesto, jam, chutney or salsa.

AVOID A SOGGY SANDWICH

If you are adding lettuce to your sandwich, first dry it with kitchen roll to prevent the bread from getting soggy. Also place the lettuce at the top of the sandwich so that it remains crispy.  Do not put wet ingredients directly on the bread, layer them with dry items. For a basic sandwich example, add your fillings in this order – lettuce, tomato, meat (or alterative filling) then cheese.

TIME FOR SEASONING

Salt, pepper and spices can change a whole sandwich, so experiment! Add a pinch of salt to your vegetables before adding them to the sandwich for that extra flavour. Adding too much dressing to the salad in your sandwich can also make it soggy so season it lightly.

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO COOKING WITH BEER

Editorial Team
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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO COOKING WITH BEER

Beer can create another dimension of taste as an ingredient in a variety of dishes, as sweet, sour and bitter tasting notes can all be found in beer – working with other ingredients to create something really special. The bitterness in beer can become overpowering, so it’s important that in lighter dishes only a small amount is used – but what is left can be served with the dish, so it’s win-win!

Little Valley Brewery’s master brewer and former food scientist, Wim van der Spek, provides his top tips when it comes to incorporating beer into culinary creations.

Wheat beers

These sorts of beers are perfect with fish or seafood dishes, as the limited bitterness gives an additional kick of flavour without overpowering the delicate fish. The acidity of the beer also gives the dish a more rounded savoury taste, for example, a wheat beer is a perfect match for mussels as an alternative to traditional white wine.

Hoppy beers

Due to their strong hoppy flavour, these beers are great for use in more neutral dishes to give them additional aroma and extra taste. The combination of hops with the lighter flavour means that the chosen beer needs to be used in moderation, otherwise the bitterness can dominate the dish – a great example of this working well would be a pale ale used in an asparagus soup to add another layer of subtle flavour.

Speciality and fruit beers

These beers, which are becoming more popular as the craft beer movement continues to grow, can be used in a wide range of dishes. In general, fruit beers tend to be less bitter so can easily be used in desserts, and beers with more savoury-suited ingredients such as ginger are perfect for adding complexity and savoury notes to Asian dishes, working particularly well with the spices in curries.

Dark beers

Dark, rich beers can be used in ‘heavier’ dishes, particularly suiting red meat dishes due to the roasted caramel taste notes. The additional sugars and acidity of the beer itself complement the rich meaty flavours, and also make the meat softer and tender. Darker beers also work well when added to cakes and puddings, again due to the caramel notes, with any bitter taste being reduced by the high amount of sugars in the cake mix.

Feeling inspired? Here’s a recipe for a beer cake courtesy of Wim.

Beer Cake with Stoodley Stout

Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes (30 minutes preparation and 75 minutes cooking)

Ingredients:

  • 100g butter
  • 200g brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 200g flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 9g baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground allspice
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 250ml of Little Valley Brewery’s Stoodley Stout
  • 100g walnuts
  • 400g dates

Method

  1. Mix sugar and butter in one bowl.
  2. Stir the egg with a fork and then add to the butter and sugar. Mix well.
  3. In a separate bowl mix flour, salt, sodium bicarbonate, allspice and cloves.
  4. Keep three spoons of the flour mix separate and add the rest to the butter, sugar and egg mix.
  5. Add the beer and mix carefully with the batter.
  6. Chop the walnuts. De-stone the dates and chop. Mix the remaining flour mix with the dates and walnuts. Add this to the batter and stir carefully.
  7. Preheat the oven to 175°C.
  8. Grease the 1lb loaf tin with butter and powder with flour. Pour the batter into the cake tin and bake in the oven for 75 minutes.
  9. Leave the cake to cool for 10 minutes before removing the cake from the tin carefully.
  10. Wrap in foil and store in the fridge for one day to enrich the taste.

Serve a slice of cake with a glass of the remaining Stoodley Stout.

For more information about Little Valley Brewery visit www.littlevalleybrewery or follow Little Valley on Twitter at @littlevalleyale

7 IDEAL LONDON GASTROPUBS YOU SHOULD’VE BEEN TO BY NOW

Editorial Team
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7 IDEAL LONDON GASTROPUBS YOU SHOULD’VE BEEN TO BY NOW

London’s appetite for top-notch nosh in a casual setting is showing no signs of abating, with more and more British boozers upping their game. From superior work drinks to impossible-to-resist foodie fare (think deep-fried Cornish anchovies, melt-in-the-mouth lamb shanks and sticky ginger pudding), gastropubs have changed the way we eat. After a meal that tastes posh without the posh price tag? These top 7 gastropubs are where it’s at.

The Jugged Hare

the-jugged-hare-1© The Jugged Hare

What:

London’s most exciting gastropub

This handsomely remodelled pub-restaurant has received a lot of attention for its great wine list and next-level bar snacks (anyone for Old Spot Scotch egg with spiced mayo?). An open ‘theatre’ kitchen with a state-of-the-art rotisserie and charcoal grill means you won’t miss any of the action, while a lovely oak floor and authentic taxidermy pieces give the space an elegant woodsy feel. Specialising in seasonal British game, spit-roast meats and wild fish, this classy gastropub is also popular for weddings and corporate events.

Sample dishes:

Pan-fried Lyme Bay turbot, braised chicory, samphire, chive butter sauce £26

Game tasting board for two £75

We like:

The dedicated Christmas menu with its fantastically festive dishes, like free-range Lincolnshire turkey, served with pork and chestnut stuffing, bread sauce, pigs in blankets and roasting juices

The Gun

the-gun-1© The Gun

What:

One of the city’s best waterside pubs

A former Time Out gastropub of the year winner, The Gun is known for its best-of-British menu and unbeatable river views. A smartly dressed dining space and a large terrace make this upmarket venue a refreshing escape from Canary Wharf. Drinkers will also feel at home at the beautiful bar counter, with its standalone menu and wide range of brews on draught.

Sample dishes:

Confit duck and liver terrine, caramelised figs, toasted 48-hour sourdough £8

Roast fillet Cumbrian beef, spiced carrot purée, charred shallots, buttered turnips, potato cake, red wine jus £32

We like:

The traditional Sunday lunch, which many say is the best in London

The White Swan

the-white-swan-1© The White Swan

What:

A smart gastropub with a great wine list

A wood-panelled ground-floor bar and a rather posh upstairs dining room make the White Swan a popular choice among young professionals. Located between Chancery Lane and Fleet Street, this classy space is known for putting its own spin on classic dishes, such as a Shorthorn Beef burger served with smoked cheddar, bacon and French fries or a treacle tart paired with zingy lemon-yogurt ice cream.

Sample dishes:

Scottish salmon fishcake, poached egg, butter sauce £9.50

Roast loin of wild Suffolk venison, crispy shoulder bon-bon, chestnuts, cocoa nib £18

We like:

The mezzanine balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows in the light-filled double-height dining room

St Bart’s Brewery

st-barts-brewery-1© St Bart’s Brewery

What:

The classiest brewery you’ve ever been to

Split over two levels, St Bart’s Brewery offers up next-level pub grub, much of which is sourced from nearby Smithfield Market. Stripped wood, barrel-top tables and exposed pipes give this Farringdon gastropub-turned-bar a sophisticated urban edge. From homemade bar snacks to comfort food classics, like pork pie with piccalilli and fish finger butties with tartar sauce, St Bart’s Brewery is a first-class addition to the city’s vibrant gastropub scene.

Sample dishes:

Cock-a-leekie pie £13

Real ale battered haddock, mushy peas, fries £14

We like:

Wines and ciders supplied by their Hush Heath Estate in Kent, including a very tasty strawberry and blackcurrant sparkling cider

Lord Wargrave

lord-wargrave-1© Lord Wargrave

What:

A Victorian-style gourmet pub with a fantastic malt whisky list

Great whisky and smoking food is what it’s all about at this popular Marleybone venue. Lord Wargrave is a whisky fan’s paradise, stocking over 150 varieties and guaranteeing there’s something for every taste. They also smoke all their meat in house and are said to do the best St Louis pork ribs in town.

Sample dishes:

House-smoked Scottish salmon sandwich, pickled cucumber, dill £9.50

5-hour smoked Jacob’s ladder beef ribs £15

We like:

London’s largest selection of single-malt whisky

Bull & Gate

bull-gate-1© The Bull and Gate

What:

A legendary north London music venue-turned-gastropub

In the heart of fashionable Kentish Town, this revitalised Victorian boozer is kitted out to look like an old-school gentlemen’s club. Expect modern, seasonal dishes in the stylish dining room and very tasty roasts on Sundays (think ‘double egg’ Yorkshire puddings, proper gravy and all the trimmings). Bull & Gate is also known for their inventive cocktails – order the spiced apple mojito for a seasonal take on the popular thirst quencher.

Sample dishes:

Smoked lamb shoulder shepherd’s pie, buttered greens £14.50

Ginger pudding, salted caramel ice cream, honey and bourbon sauce £6.50

We like:

The baby grand piano with complimentary live jazz on Friday and Saturday evenings

The Princess of Wales

the-princess-of-wales-31© The Princess of Wales

What:

A regency-style gastropub in leafy Primrose Hill

Refined British grub is the order of the day at this lovingly renovated venue. An elegant first-floor dining room, lower-ground bar and the ‘Banksy beer garden’ (named after a lion stencil that appeared mysteriously in 2011) have re-established the Princess of Wales as a warm and welcoming local.

Sample dishes:

Duck liver and orange pâté, rhubarb chutney, toast £7.5

BBQ pulled pork bun, apple slaw, fries £12.95

We like:

The 2 for 1 cocktail deal from 5 to 8 pm Monday to Thursday (don’t miss the very naughty but very nice Chocolate Slip!)

Bio:

Jacinta Butterworth is a content writer at #tagvenue, the UK’s fastest growing venue bookings platform. You can follow them @tagvenue.

jacntabutterworth1

10 UNUSUAL DESTINATIONS TO INSPIRE YOUR IDEAL HOLIDAY

Editorial Team
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10 UNUSUAL DESTINATIONS TO INSPIRE YOUR IDEAL HOLIDAY

The world is a huge, expansive place. Well, duh. So why must our holidays hone in so devotedly on just a few approachable, accessible cities. After Paris’ ticks on the bucket list reach double figures, after we’ve seen Barcelona so many times that graffiti now addresses us by name, it’s probably time to cast the net a little wider, to think a little further outside of the box. So, with that in mind, from unworldly natural formations to strange man made creations, we’ve teamed up with True Luxury Travel to bring you 10 unusual destinations to inspire your IDEAL holiday. 

LAKE HILLIER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

No someone has not tipped a load of pink dye into it, however strange it may appear. This milkshake coloured lake, discovered in 1802, is an unusual, spectacular sight and that’s for sure. Its location adjacent to the Pacific ocean (blue, by the way) creates a view of superb contrast and intrigue. The reason for its pastel pink hue is still up for debate by scientists, but as a reaction of salt and bacterias present in the water is one opinion – you should consider visiting to come up with your own theory, hey?

Lake Hillier | © Kurioziteti123 / Wikicommons

THE TIANZI MOUNTAINS, CHINA

Take a cable car from Huangshi village in the Hunan Province of South China to see these immense limestone pinnacles. The Tianzi (son of heaven) Mountains are spectacular in themselves, but what sets them apart is the mystical, atmospheric mist and sheets of cloud which cloak the peaks. Visit in either April or October for the best views and experience.

The Tianzi Mountains | © Rocio Gil/ Wikicommons

PAMUKKALE, TURKEY

Taking a dip at this UNESCO World Heritage site in Turkey will blow your mind . Water cascades from natural springs down white travertine terraces and into thermal pools below. Pamukkale translates as cotton castle and when you see it, you’ll understand the nickname, as the ‘turrets’ of the travertine terrace faces are white and appear almost fluffy. The water is warm and rich in minerals, and visually, it’s utterly surreal. Just magic.

Psst. If you’re in Turkey and are a fan of the unusual, make sure you take a trip to cappadocia. This lunar landscape looks so out of this world, it’s been the filming location for a number of Star Wars films.

Pamukkale | © Pixabay

THAMES TOWN, CHINA

For a taste of England that’s not actually in England, head to Thames Town in Shanghai. Designed to look like an traditional English Village, complete with a church, pub and even fish and chip shop, this place couldn’t be further from traditional notions of China. It cost £500 million pounds to build and is generally used by newlyweds for photo opportunities. Apart from tourists and those looking for capturing shots for Instagram, the town is largely deserted.

Thames Town | © Pixabay

CHRISTIANIA DENMARK

A semi-autonomous part of Copenhagen founded by squatters in the 1970’s, Freetown Christiania is a bastion of hippie life and just a crazy place for a stroll. There is an anarchic charm to the place, with much trade occuring in the form of exchange, not through money. Although it’s largely considered safe, be wary of taking photos.

THE NAZCA LINES, PERU

Animal figures and shapes etched into the floor by the ancient Nazca people provides us with one of South America’s greatest mysteries. The 2000 year old archaeological wonder divides academics and scholars as to their purpose, but generally they are considered to have religious significance. Whatever the explanation, these geoglyphs are a fascinating glimpse into ancient Nazca life.

Nazca Lines| © Pixabay

CHOCOLATE HILLS, THE PHILIPPINES

On the island of Bohol in the Philippines lies some odd conical hills that have been nicknamed ‘the Chocolate Hills’. They are covered in green grass that turns a chocolate colour brown during the dry season and have a geological formation which confuses experts. Tourists, however, love them, as they look whimsical and obtuse with the jungle as a backdrop.

Bohol | © Andrewhaimerl  Wikkicommons

SALAR DE UYUNI, BOLIVIA

Yes, we’ve all seen the photos of our lucky mates, playing with notions of scale and size on these salt pans in Bolivia. It’s the world’s largest of its kind, and when a film gathers on its surface, also acts as a mirror; doubling the weirdness factor of the great natural wonder.

Salar de Uyuni| © Pixabay

CAT ISLAND, JAPAN

The purrrfect place for cat lovers, Tashirojima has a population of only one hundred people, but many, many more feline inhabitants. Tashirojima is actually one of roughly 12 ‘cat islands’ in Japan, but is probably the most famous. The heavy cat population was brought about by stray cats being fed and nurtured by locals who believed this care brought them good luck, especially with regards to predicting the weather and its effect on the fishing community.

Cats in Aoshima | ©  暇・カキコ Wikkicommons

RED BEACH, PANJIN, CHINA

This beach in China is covered by a type of seaweed called Sueda which turns bright red during the autumn, and is one which really needs to be seen to be believed. We’re not talking a rusty, tired looking hue, we’re talking bright, vivid red. The area is also home to a thriving ecosystem, with over 200 types of bird calling it home. So, if you’re into bird watching with a most peculiar backdrop, this could be the place for you.

5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO COOK PERFECT JERSEY ROYALS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO COOK PERFECT JERSEY ROYALS

Jersey Royal potatoes are at their best in May – so it’s time for you to learn how to cook them to impress friends and family while they are in season. If anyone knows their Jersey Royals from their Maris Pipers its Steve Smith, Head Chef at Michelin-starred Bohemia. Steve shares his top tips for how to cook the perfect potatoes this season.

FRESH IS BEST

Cooking with fresh Jersey Royals may seem like stating the obvious, but it has such a huge impact on the final taste. At home, avoid any potatoes that have gone soft or green.

AVOID THE FRIDGE

It is a common misconception that if you want food to last longer you should keep it in the fridge. Wrong! When it comes to Jersey Royals you should store them in a cool, dark place as putting them in the fridge turns the starch to sugar, making them lose much of their signature flavour.

SAVE THE SKIN

Simply wash off the excess dirt from the potatoes rather than peeling or scraping them. This removes any unwanted bits without wasting a good source of fibre and texture.

BOILING POINT

When boiling or part-boiling the Jersey Royals place them in cold, salty water and allow the water to gradually reach boiling point. You can add a bit of mint or dill to the water for flavour when cooking. Once the water has come to the boil and is simmering, the potatoes should take around 10 minutes. You can tell when they are ready by stabbing them with a knife. Leave them to cool in the water.

NICE AND CRISPY

If you are roasting your potatoes then you want them to be as crispy as possible. In order to do so, get a potato masher to crush the cooked potatoes to increase the surface area so that the heat gets into every crevice. Sprinkle with a bit of fresh thyme and Maldon salt then roast the Jersey Royals at around 200°C.

5 KARAOKE BARS IN LONDON FOR THE IDEAL NIGHT OUT

Editorial Team
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5 KARAOKE BARS IN LONDON FOR THE IDEAL NIGHT OUT

London has a great selection of Karaoke bars proving you don’t need to travel all the way to Tokyo to release your inner Beyonce.

Japanese studies say that karaoke can relieve stress and boost confidence and self-esteem. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to give Adele a run for her money at one of London’s best karaoke venues.

Thai Silk, Southwark 

Thai Silk in Southwark is the latest addition to the prestigious Royal China Group. As well as offering the finest, authentic Thai cuisine, Thai Silk also has two karaoke rooms with over 100,000 songs. Karaoke is available any night of the week in the two private rooms which both have state-of-the-art karaoke systems which has songs in English, Thai and Chinese. In the bar area guests can party the night away at the popular DJ nights which are held every Friday, Saturday and last Thursday of each month.

Address: 94-95 Isabella St, London SE1 8DA

Website: www.thai-silk.co.uk

The Old Queens Head, Islington

At The Old Queens Head their private karaoke room is located at the top of the venue. The room has a capacity for 15 people including a personal host for the evening. Guests can really embrace their inner rockstar by delving into the fancy dress box and transforming into their favourite star. The Old Queens has a vast selection of tracks, old and new, to suit every guest. There’s also a ‘booze button’ so you can call your host whenever your glass needs refilling.

Address: 44 Essex Rd, London N1 8LN

Website: http://theoldqueenshead.com

Karaoke Box, Smithfield

Karaoke Box has 15 rooms to choose from which fit four to 25 guests, each room with 8000 songs available in English and Japanese. The VIP room guarantees a night of luxury with wireless microphones, touch screens and even a white baby grand piano. To make you feel like you’ve really transported to Tokyo, the venue has a large selection of dishes including Japanese finger food as well as large cocktail list. As well as their Smithfield site, there are two other sites in Mayfair and Soho.

Address: 12 Smithfield St, London EC1A 9LA

Website:  http://website.karaokebox.co.uk

The Old School Yard, London Bridge

Go back to the good old days and belt out your childhood favourites at bar and playground, The Old School Yard in London Bridge. The walls are adorned in 80s memorabilia – think Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Pac Man. This cocktail and party bar has private karaoke rooms, which can accommodate up to 15 people per room. Each room features recently installed touch screen karaoke systems with over 5000 songs from the 80s, 90s and today.

Address: 111 Long Ln, London SE1 4PH

Website: www.theoldschoolyard.com

Lucky Voice

Lucky Voice has private pods which can accommodate four to 12 people so you can sing away without any embarrassment. The prop box has inflatable guitars and tambourines at the ready so you can really show off your inner rock god. If you would rather sing in comfort of your own home then Lucky Voice has a ‘Sing at Home’ option which can be downloaded on a laptop, tablet or phone.

If you’re looking for a more personal or flexible karaoke experience, karaoke hire could be the perfect solution. Whether it’s a house party, wedding, or corporate event, karaoke hire services let you bring the stage to your space—with professional equipment, extensive song libraries, and optional extras like lighting or hosts to elevate your event.

Address:  52 Poland St, Soho, London W1F 7NQ 

Website  www.luckyvoice.com

Image via: www.luckyvoice.com

5 IDEAL PAIRING TIPS FOR ITALIAN WINE

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL PAIRING TIPS FOR ITALIAN WINE

Pairing wine with food is an art form. While it may be easy to find perfect matches in a restaurant with the help of a sommelier, what about when you’re at home? Luckily Aurore Lagadec, Restaurant & Bar Manager at Sopwell House, has shared her top tips for pairing Italian wine with food.

PROSECCO – IDEAL WITH ANTIPASTI

Prosecco is best enjoyed as an aperitif to accompany stuzzichini (Italian nibbles) such as cured meats, buffalo mozzarella with cherry tomatoes, black olive tapenade and toasted rosemary foccacia.

PINOT GRIGIO – IDEAL WITH SPAGHETTI CARBONARA 

This white wine is light on the palate with a delicate citrus flavour. The crisp minerality and freshness of Pinot Grigio enables it to cut through the richness of the parmesan and egg in the carbonara sauce.

CHIANTI – IDEAL WITH STEAK CARPACCIO

The red fruit and herbaceous flavour of Chianti makes it the perfect partner to dishes that use olive oil or with red meats. Enjoy a glass of Chianti with a steak carpaccio served simply with a rocket salad.

SOAVE – IDEAL WITH SEAFOOD RISOTTO 

Soave is one of the world’s easiest wines to pair with food due to its high natural acidity and low alcohol. Produced in a wine region in Northern Veneto, it works well with fish and seafood, due to the area’s close proximity to the coast.

MONTEPULCIANO – IDEAL WITH ROASTED VEGETABLES

This medium-bodied red wine is one of Italy’s most popular grapes. Its robust flavour pairs well with roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes, parsnips or beetroot.

5 Ideal Places To Enjoy English Sparkling Wine In London

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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5 Ideal Places To Enjoy English Sparkling Wine In London

English sparkling wine has had a great few years. Once confined to the dustbin deals and house sections of many a menu, its surge in popularity has seen it preferred to French champagne in blind taste tests of late. Whilst not wanting to be jingoistic, we think this is a cause for national pride. To celebrate English wine, we’ve compiled a list of the IDEAL restaurants in which to drink English sparkling wine.

Noble Rot

A name which initially causes a curious sense of revulsion, Noble Rot actually refers to a process of grape fermentation essential to the body and characteristic of great wine. This wine bar and restaurant serves superb small plates, luxuriating in fresh British produce, perfect for the main event here – the booze. English sparkling wine is championed in the form of two Hampshire offerings, with the menu suggesting them as a ‘genuine alternative to champagne’. We’d go one step further; whisper it, but they might actually taste better.

Address: 51 Lamb’s Conduit Street, London, WC1N 3NB 

Website: noblerot.co.uk 

The Clove Club

This spectacular restaurant run by Isaac McHale and team is as proud of its drinks and front of house as it is its food. And quite rightly. The superb sommelier and bar team make you feel so welcome for a restaurant of this class and sophistication – no one judges you for having a couple of craft lagers if that’s your thing. It’s clear hospitality is at its core and the English sparkling wine on offer suit the chef’s frankly sensational food to a tee. A 2012 Blanc de Blanc from Kent is just £16 a glass – a snip.

Address:  Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old St, London EC1V 9LT 

Website: thecloveclub.com

Berner’s Tavern

A staple on the Fitzrovia dining circuit, Berner’s Tavern and English sparkling wine just seem to go hand in hand. The place is all English sophistication – wood furnishings and elegant wall-to-wall classical art – with food and drink to match. A Nyetimber Classic Cuvee at £90 a bottle may seem a lot, but trust us, this drop is well worth it in these classy surrounds.

Address: 10 Berners St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 3NP

Website: www.bernerstavern.com 

Quo Vadis

Chef Jeremy Lee has succeeded in making Quo Vadis, a Soho institution, even more charming, eccentric and quintessentially British. His wit and style is all over the menu and you can’t help but give yourself over to his sense of fun and freedom. Bearing this in mind, it would be rude not to quaff some seriously fine English sparkling wine at Quo Vadis.

Address: 26-29 Dean Street, Soho, London, W1D 3LL 

Website: www.quovadissoho.co.uk

The Tate Restaurant and Bar

The restaurant and bar of the famous London art gallery offers a surprisingly fine seasonal and British menu. The sparkling wine is sold by the glass as well as bottle, so it’s perfect for a lunch-time trip, complete with beautiful views and subsequent stroll around the wonderful, iconic building. Take in some works by British artists to complete the day out.

Address: Tate Modern, Bankside, London, SE1 9TG

Website: www.tate.org.uk

5 IDEAL PIECES OF TRAVEL ADVICE FOR YOUR NEXT SUMMER ROAD TRIP

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5 IDEAL PIECES OF TRAVEL ADVICE FOR YOUR NEXT SUMMER ROAD TRIP

Top down, Springsteen on and nothing but the open road. Here at IDEAL we’re road trip junkies. Nothing gets our juices flowing more than the thought of fun-filled adventures on a summer road trip and with winter now in the rear view mirror, we’re planning our next one. However, the summer road trip demands more preparation than just throwing your things in a car and hitting the road. When the mercury ramps up, driving during the warm summer months presents its own unique set of challenges. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL pieces of travel advice for your next summer road trip.

MAKE SURE YOUR CAR’S ROADWORTHY

Nothing will put a damper on your road trip like breaking down. So first things first, get your car in shape for the rigors of travel.  If your car hasn’t been serviced in a while, then get one done well in advance. You can book in a service or MOT online at sites like Lookers.co.uk.

If all is up to date, it’s still worth going to your local garage and getting an experienced mechanic to inspect all the belts and hoses. Tyre and fluid levels need to checked, as do the windscreen wiper blades since they may have become worn over the winter. On hot days, some car batteries fail, especially if they are older, so it may be wise to replace it before setting off on your adventure.

MONITOR TYRE AND FLUID LEVELS

It’s essential to monitor your vehicle’s tyre pressure and fluid levels not only before, but also during your trip too. Low inflation can reduce fuel economy, costing you more in petrol (money better spent on ice cream and ice cold beer) and contribute to blow out related accidents. The heat can affect your tyre pressure, so every time you stop for petrol, check your tyres too.

In warm weather, most engine oil tends to thin out, which may prevent it from properly lubricating the engine during your trip. To avoid any problems the oil should be checked and if necessary changed before setting off on a long hot journey. And don’t forget to replace the coolant, which without (on hot sunny days particularly) can cause the car to overheat. Other items that should be checked include brake fluid levels and windscreen washer fluid.

BRING EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT

A well-stocked emergency travel kit should be kept in the boot at all times. The kit should include a flashlight, jumper cables, basic tools, flares and a blanket, along with non-perishable food like dried fruit and emergency water. Even though you’ll probably have your journey mapped out on your GPS system and your emergency numbers on your iphone, it’s always a good idea to carry an old fashioned paper map and any other information you may need, like your roadside assistance numbers, written down on paper in your glove compartment. Technology sometimes fails, batteries run out and screens break. Have a back up.   

PACK LIGHTLY AND WISELY

While an emergency travel kit is a must, don’t bring too many unnecessary items. There’s limited space in that car and overloading the vehicle can cause issues with tyre pressure, fuel economy and safety.  Also, travelling in a cram-packed car with no leg room is horrible and if items are piled too high, they can block the driver’s vision. So keep your luggage to a minimum and only pack the things your really need.

Remember, you can always stop at a launderette and wash your clothes along the way. If the journey is long without many stops, it’s sensible to bring a cooler with light snacks and refreshments which you can replenish with additional items along the way. Also, load your car sensibly by keeping the items you need the most handy. This way, you won’t have to rummage around and need to unpack and repack constantly en route.

WATCH OUT FOR THE SUN AND TIRED DRIVING

As much as any summer road trip needs the sun, sometimes the scorching temperatures can make your road trip unbearable. Opening your car door in the summer can be like opening an oven, so keep your car cool and comfortable by always trying to park in the shade and putting up a sunshade or window visor every time you exit the car.  Driving in the heat can get pretty unpleasant so make sure your air conditioning works or crack a window open. The low sun in the summer can also cause bad visibility, so make sure you have a pair of sunglasses handy.  

Not only can the sun cause you to feel sticky and hot,  make you irritable and send tempers through the roof, it can also make you tired. Driving while fatigued is a major cause of accidents on motorways. To avoid temper tantrums and tiredness, drivers should exert caution and be prepared to stop and take short naps.

BE CAREFUL WHEN TOWING

If you’re going to be a towing a boat, caravan or trailer this summer then there are a whole set of summer road trip towing tips you need to know. Some involve simply exercising common sense, such as driving more slowly than you would under normal circumstances. Sudden lane changes, sharp braking and rapid deceleration that may put pressure on the engine, should also be avoided.

Others are more complicated like knowing the towing regulations and making sure your towing equipment meets certain safety regulations. There are some pretty handy summer towing tip articles online. 

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