Nestled amongst Bangkok’s historical palaces, temples and museums; a lucky few will happen upon the boutique gem, The Siam. With just 39 suites and villas set in three acres of prime land on the banks of Chao Phraya River in the city’s lesser known Royal Dusit district, The Siam is a true benchmark property in Bangkok.
IDEAL LOCATION
Set on the Bangkok side of the Chao Phraya river with its own pier and beautiful Cipriani esque 1920s launch, The Siam has the river as a focal point. This allows guests the opportunity to travel throughout the district by boat, or inland by foot or bike, and to re-discover the bliss of life in at a slower pace. The location is key to the experience at The Siam, and offers a quintessential Thai cultural immersion like no other. The hotel is the only luxury property in the unspoiled historic district, which is largely unpopulated by tourists despite being South East Asia’s most complete historic city and home to all of Bangkok’s must-see cultural sights.
UNIQUE DESIGN
In partnership with globally acclaimed architect and interior designer Bill Bensley, creative director – and film actor and rock singer! – Krissada Sukosol Clapp has conceived a remarkable hotel which has at its heart the family’s extensive private art and antique collection. Bensley and Clapp’s shared vision and passion is reflected in the Art Deco inspired styling which evokes Thailand in its halcyon days under King Rama V at the turn of the 19th century. Inspired by Paris’ Musée d’Orsay, the striking design is opulent yet simple, with a muted colour palette of black, white, cream and grey offset by sprawling tranquil gardens and verdant shrubs.
FASCINATING CURIOS
At The Siam, you will experience a living museum. All the antiques on display have been collected over a period of more than 10 years by Kriss, a flea market fanatic who loves nothing more when home in Bangkok or on his travels than to seek out local antique stores and fairs. The stunning cross-section of curios being used throughout the property ranges from the everyday to the extraordinary and includes: traditional Chinese opium daybeds & Burmese weathered wood columns in Pool Villas; French vintage velvet theatre seats in the private screening room; priceless Tang Dynasty figurines and Neolithic Thai pottery in the library and Siamese maps, books, posters and photos on display in individual suites and elsewhere.
These antiques permeate every single private and public space, from rugs on floors to prints on walls and old wooden doors to chandeliers hanging from the ceilings. There are even four historic, century-old Thai teakwood houses brought downriver from the ancient capital of Ayutthaya by former owner, collector Connie Mangskau and her friend Jim Thompson, who is famed for establishing Thailand’s silk industry.
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE
The Siam offers all the services expected in a property of this calibre and more, all delivered with panache and intuitive Thai service. The restaurants and culinary emporium is headed up by Jane- Therese Mulry, Marco Pierre White’s first female head chef. The Opium Spa is the first and only Sodashi spa in Asia, offering a full range of therapies using 100% chemical free products unparalleled in purity and performance. The gymnasium has a full range of fitness services as well as has an authentic actual size Muay Thai Boxing ring. The period-style library plays host to a collection of rare, first edition hardback books on Siam and Asia, dating back over a century, and has its own Art Deco screening room.
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES
Make the most of your precious time in Bangkok, choosing from The Siam’s carefully curated range of signature Thai experiences. An example of these include a truly immersive Thai cooking experience, immortalising your stay with the ancient and sacred tradition of Sak Yant Tattoo at the hotel’s dedicated parlour, and Muay Thai training at Bangkok’s first professionally-equipped, luxury gym.
Siem Reap is arguably the epicenter of Cambodia with most travellers coming here to explore one of the world’s newest appointed wonders, Angkor Wat. If you’ve ever sought advice from a more adventurous peer who has explored the temples before, they’ll warn you of the sweltering heat and the need to return to your hotel for periodic naps and dips.
Indeed, Siem Reap can be an exhausting place to visit if you’re only there for a short amount of time, due to the heat and the pressures of time. From visiting the temples to wandering around the city’s lively markets and streets thronging with tourists, there’s so much to do and see here. This is why it’s important to stay somewhere (and forgive the cliche) that’s like an oasis of calm amidst the hustle and bustle. Heritage Suites is such an oasis it would probably sing wonderwall for you if you asked nicely.
Idea
From the moment you’re picked up in one of the hotel’s fleet of vintage car at the airport, you know you’re in for a special stay. A throwback in style to Cambodia’s period of French occupation, this sophisticated boutique retreat combines colonial elegance with Cambodian charm.
Location
Conveniently located a short tuk-tuk journey from the majestic Angkor temples and a five minute ride from the old market area, the location of the hotel is perfect for making the most of Siem Reap. So close to the town centre, it has a lovely local feel and is luckily just far enough away from pub street that you’ll get a good night’s sleep.
Style and character
The hotel has heaps of character and charm. The first thing that strikes you is the grand colonial facade of the main building. The inside of the building is equally as opulent, with huge wooden pillars, one an antique from a pagoda looming large over the central space. There is a sense of spaciousness throughout – nothing feels crowded or perfunctory. It’s a style that puts visitors at ease, encouraging a leisurely pace so welcome after a day getting amongst the temples. Of the evening you’ll see patrons taking a drink and chatting in the foyer area – testament to the chilled out vibe permeating every corner of the hotel. Live jazz and cocktails on Thursday nights perfectly suits the sophistication and ambiance of the hotel.
Rooms and Suites
There are six rooms situated in the elegant colonial building, however it’s the stunning suites named after different flowers that people come here for. Enveloped by a lush tropical garden, these superbly appointed suites are huge. There’s an air of Scandanavian sophistication that’s perfectly blended with Asian Art Deco. One of the first things you notice about the suites are the oversized bathtubs, perfect for soothing any aches and pains after a day of walking or washing away the shame of last night’s antics on pub street. There’s also a steam room in each suite to further aid relaxing. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the room with natural light and look out onto a lovely little courtyard garden which has a seating area or your own private hot-tub depending on the room category you choose. The lack of the a TV in the suite lends itself to the peaceful tranquility of the hotel. However worry not, you can request one if you like.
Facilities
Don’t you just hate it when you really fancy a swim and the hotel pool is closed? This inconvenience doesn’t happen here. The gorgeous salt water pool open 24 hours a day. There’s a spa with organic products and treatments inspired by the traditional Khmer massage technique.
Food and Drink
The main building of the hotel is the hub and where all the food and drink can be found and the breakfast is served. Downstairs there is a bar and relaxed lobby bistro while the upstairs mezzanine level is completely dedicated to dining. The refined menu here offers an innovative culinary style, fusing Khmer classics with Western cuisine. If you’re looking for local tastes, try the Khmer discovery menu. The Foie Gras “Cambodian Style”, which is served with a Khmer curry sauce, is a must-try.
Why Go
From pick-up to drop-off and everything in between, Heritage Suites is a reassuring presence after a day of sweltering heat. The cool, colonial calm of the building and the elegance of the suites provide a respite and comfort rarely matched in the city. If you’re wishing to continue the zen-like state of spirituality that the temples have impressed upon you, here is the place to do it.
Eco-tourism is experiencing a vital, international surge in popularity but Vietnam, thus far, has been lagging behind. Huge resorts are pitching up all over the country’s coastlines, with Phu Quoc being no exception.
The awe-inspiring landscape and ecosystems of Vietnam need protecting and this has to start somewhere. Look no further than Bamboo Cottages, Vietnam’s first and only, completely off the grid resort.
Idea
The place is loudly and proudly run only on solar energy. Efforts are made at every turn to protect the beautiful natural beauty that the resort calls home. The attention to detail in preserving this green ethos is admirable. One would think that this may lead to a stay of less comfort and amenities, but Bamboo Cottages manages to offer a unique experience without the added bonus of protecting the planet becoming a hindrance.
Sure, the electricity goes out at roughly 1am for a few hours, but the resort’s proximity to the beach allows for a cool sea breeze that rivals any air conditioning system. Yes, maybe the one, solo fridge makes for a smaller menu, but punters embrace the clarity and freshness with zeal. Okay, wifi may occasionally go down, but genuinely, it’s welcome – having your hand forced to put down your phone, no excuses, and luxuriate in nature is so refreshing.
Location
Bamboo Cottages is certainly not harmed by the glorious, calm ocean which laps its doorstep. The swimming here is the best we experienced on the island, with a gentle decline in seabed depth lending itself perfectly to both a frolic and good old fashioned exercise.
The grounds house some of the most stunning, imposing trees. When you see these old trees, untouched and proud in the sunlight, offering shade and respite, it tugs at your heart for the destruction of other parts of the island.
Atmosphere
The vibe is very laid back and really friendly. There’s something about the collective spirit of the noble, environmentally conscious location that lends itself to a sociable crowd. The resort-arranged ‘family style dinner’ where all guests were encouraged to sit together at a large table and imbibe was a really fun touch.
Rooms
Rooms are simple and to the point. Nonetheless, the beds are comfy and the mosquito net provides both security and an air of romance. There’s a feeling of safety and calm on the resort which meant most guests were sleeping with their doors open, to enjoy the sound of the waves and the resultant cool breeze.
More highly priced (and prized, we’d imagine) villas are available, which are furnished with real style – we loved the ‘stilt house’ with funky furniture and an outdoor bath that seemed to catch the sun perfectly.
Facilities
Kayaks are available to row to a nearby island and pier. A spa offers massage and replenishment. There are yoga classes offered each morning and afternoon. Everything is non-fussy and easy going, which suits the resorts dynamic to a tee.
Food and Drink
The aforementioned solar powered, solo fridge means the menu is quite short (though actually, given the circumstances, not as brief as you’d expect). This leads to some nicely cooked local fish, bought at the market each morning, and salads grown in the resort’s garden. There are various special menus offered of an evening, adding variety, such as the family style meal we so enjoyed, as well as a weekly beach barbeque.
Why Go
News arriving on the day of our departure perfectly captured the place. The resort had been tentatively granted the opportunity to provide educational classes about environmental awareness and protection at local schools – a first for the island and indeed, the country. This encapsulated the heart and enthusiasm of the operation. Sometimes, ‘green’ and ‘eco’ are bandied about with little attention to the true meaning and perspective. You certainly cannot say that about Bamboo Cottages – a place we’d highly recommend. We look forward to following its progress in years to come.
Salt and sugar, how we love you. You make our chips delicious and our coffee luxurious. Without you, a world of technicolour would be lived in monochrome. Maybe, the problem is, we love you just a little bit too much. Both are addictive beasts, and although in small quantities they are good for us, in larger doses salt and sugar can lead to a myriad of health issues. With this is mind, here are the 4 IDEAL ways to reduce our salt and sugar intake.
DO IT GRADUALLY
Many of us add at least one or two teaspoons of sugar to our cup of coffee. In many countries, it’s so common that the barista will always add it, no questions asked. When you are used to having something sweet in your brew, it’s not going to be easy to eliminate it completely. And going cold turkey is usually not an option.
Reduce the amount gradually, going from two teaspoons to one, then from one to a half. Eventually, the amount of sugar you’re adding to your cup will be negligible, and you might as well stop completely.
Extend this mindset to your other sugar cravings as well. Reduce the amount you’re cooking with gradually, reach for fruit instead of juice, and get used to checking the labels on the food you buy. Cereal, for example, is usually filled with sugar – by purchasing a sugar-free one, you’re reducing your intake considerably.
HARNESS YOUR SUGAR INTAKE THROUGH FRUIT
When you’re no longer indulging in large amounts of processed sugar every day, you’re going to have a whole new appreciation for the sweetness of fruit. It’ll be your new go-to treat, and you can enjoy the energy from its sugar knowing that the fruit also provides you with plenty of other health benefits. Sugar, when used wisely, is the best source of energy we have.
CONSIDER A SUPPLEMENT
If you’re looking to lose weight by cutting down on sugar, you might want to consider a weight loss product to ensure you’re able to get the energy you need while adapting to your new lifestyle. It can sometimes be difficult to shake off a sugary habit when you don’t know what to replace it with. Consider a supplement which compares to the Cambridge diet, and make it work for you while you’re getting used to your new lifestyle. However, remember to consult your doctor first and keep in mind that any weight loss plan needs exercise to succeed and be sustained.
COOK FRESH FOOD AT HOME
While too much sugar can undoubtedly lead to obesity and other health problems, too much salt is seriously tough on your kidneys and can increase your blood pressure to an unhealthy degree.
We should limit ourselves to about 2,300 milligrams per day – or about one teaspoon. Most of the salt the average person consumes is found in ready meals, canned items, sauces, and other snack food. You may be shocked to learn just how much salt is used in process food, and a cursory skim of the label may be all the impetus you need to cook your meals freshly, at home. This way, you can monitor exactly how much salt goes into your diet. Add flavour with power foods such as garlic, ginger, chili, and herbs to spice things up and avoid a dull meal. A bit of salt is alright and even good for you – so learn to love the control your kitchen gives you.
For those wishing to end their social smoking habit, summer can be a time fraught with temptation. From barbeques, to rooftop parties and picnics in the park, what was once repulsive becomes appealing with the impetus of a few drinks, friends and good cheer. If you’re a part-time puffer, following these IDEAL tips on avoiding social smoking this summer could be the boost you need to quit.
FACE THE FACTS
Do you think social smoking is a relatively harmless indulgence? Do you say to yourself one cigarette every now and again won’t hurt? Stop fooling yourself. Even if you only have the odd puff after a few drinks you’re still doing damage to your body. Intermittent smoking still increases the risk of heart disease, lung cancer and host of other conditions that you don’t need.
GET MORAL SUPPORT
Get your mates on side. Tell people that you’re done with social smoking and implore them to execute some tough love if you ask for a ‘drag on a ciggy’ after a few drinks. If your friends are incapable of this small but important request, get new ones.
USE SMOKING AIDS
From patches to mints and even chewing gum, there are a variety of aids available which assist in quelling your urge to smoke. If you resistance is futile, consider vaping. Ongoing research suggests that it’s far less harmful than smoking, and it won’t make you smell of tobacco and tar. We’ve all woken up the morning after spending the previous night in a fog of cigarettes. The smell increases your hangover tenfold – so why did it seem a good idea at the time?
ASK YOURSELF SOME IMPORTANT QUESTIONS
Really think about why you need to smoke socially. Getting the bare bones of it can highlight just how silly and detrimental it is. Do you really enjoy it? What are you getting out of it? The answer will inevitably not be in the affirmative, and sometimes this reality check is all you really need.
When you’re after something filling and wholesome, eat like a Scandinavian and opt for an open-sandwich for your lunch or afternoon snack. This delicious, easy dish is packed full of nutrients and can be rustled up in no time.
Norwegian smoked salmon on rye with avocado & peas (serves 2)
Ingredients
4 slices of Norwegian smoked salmon
1 handful of freshly shelled peas
1 shallot, finely chopped
Juice and zest of 1 unwaxed lemon
2 tbsp of oil
1 avocado
2 slices of rye bread
Salt & pepper
Method
Step one
Place the shelled peas in a bowl and add the finely chopped shallot.
Step two
Mix together the lemon zest and oil and season to taste with a little salt and pepper.
Step three
Toss the peas and shallots in this dressing and set aside for about 30 minutes before you prepare the open sandwiches.
Step four
Slice open the avocado and cut segments to place on the rye bread. Fold the Norwegian smoked salmon on top of the avocado and then scatter the pea and shallot mixture on top of the salmon.
Step five
If you have any fresh pea tips and shoots then add those as an extra garnish, or use a herb of your choice. Borage, parsley, chive and mint all work well with this tasty and healthy summer sandwich.
Travelling is something that we all want to do, yet we always think of travelling around the world. But how much of our own country have we actually seen? Below we have selected some of the UK’s most chaotic cities and have found out what type of transportation will get you there the quickest.
London, England
The current population of London is 7,074,265*
Route: From Royal London Hospital to King’s Cross Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 33 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via the A501).
It would take 29 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (the Hammersmith & City underground from Whitechapel).
It would take 1 hour and 21 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the A501).
It would take 27 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via the A5201).
Quickest form of transport: Cycling
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Birmingham, England
The current population of Birmingham is: 1,020,589*
Route: From Cadbury World to Birmingham New Street Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 17 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via Pershore Rd/A441).
It would take 26 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (the London Midland line from Bournville).
It would take 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via Bristol Rd/A38).
It would take 23 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via Pershore Rd/A441 and Bristol Rd/A38).
Quickest form of transport: Driving
Leeds, England
The current population of Leeds is: 726,939*
Route: From Kirkstall Abbey to Leeds Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 18 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via Burley Rd).
It would take 28 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (the Northern line from Headingley).
It would take 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the A65).
It would take 20 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via the A65).
Quickest form of transport: Driving
Glasgow, Scotland
The current population of Glasgow is: 616,430*
Route: From Hampden Park to Glasgow Central Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 22 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via Cathcart Rd).
It would take 16 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (via the ScotRail line from Mount Florida).
It would take 52 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via Eglinton St/A77).
It would take 16 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via Aikenhead Rd/A728).
Quickest form of transport: Joint first place between public transport and cycling
Sheffield, England
The current population of Sheffiled is: 530,375*
Route: From Meadowhall Centre to Sheffield Train Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be:
It would take 14 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via Brightside Ln/A6109).
It would take 24 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (via the Northern Yellow Line Transpennine Express from Meadowhall South – Tinsley).
It would take 1 hour 14 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the A6109).
It would take 22 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via the A6109).
Quickest form of transport: Driving
Bradford, England
The current population of Bradford is: 483,422*
Route: From Shipley town centre to Bradford Interchange
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 16 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via the A6037).
It would take 13 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (via either the 622, 623, 626, 653 or 737 from Shipley Market Square).
It would take 1 hour 18 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the A6037).
It would take 26 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via the A6037).
Quickest form of transport: Public transport
Liverpool, England
The current population of Liverpool is: 467,995*
Route: From Aintree Racecourse to Liverpool Lime Street Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 21 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via Bridle Rd and the A5038).
It would take 27 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (via the Merseyrail line from Aintree).
It would take 1 hour 44 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the A59).
It would take 29 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via the A59).
Quickest form of transport: Driving
Edinburgh, Scotland
The current population of Edinburgh is: 448,850*
Route: From Fort Kinnaird to Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 20 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via the A1).
It would take 27 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (via the 253 line from Milton Link).
It would take 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the A6095).
It would take 27 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via the National Cycle Route 1).
Quickest form of transport: Driving
Manchester, England
The current population of Manchester is: 430,818*
Route: From Old Trafford football stadium to Manchester Piccadilly Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 13 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via the A56).
It would take 24 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (via the X50 line from Sir Alex Ferguson Way).
It would take 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the B6469).
It would take 22 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via the A56 and B6469).
Quickest form of transport: Driving
Bristol, England
The current population of Bristol is: 399,633
Route: From Woodspring Golf & Country Club to Bristol Temple Meads Railway Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be:It would take 18 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via the A38).
It would take 23 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (via the 672 from Towns Talk (NE-bound).
It would take 1 hour 18 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the A38).
It would take 22 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via the A38).
Quickest form of transport: Driving
Cardiff, Wales
The current population of Cardiff is: 315,040*
Route: From Radyr Golf Club to Cardiff Central Railway Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 20 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via Llantrisant Rd/A4119 and the A4119).
It would take 27 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (via the Arriva Trains Wales route from Radyr).
It would take 1 hour 37 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the A4119).
It would take 28 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via National Cycle Route 8).
Quickest form of transport: Driving
Belfast, Northern Ireland
The current population of Belfast is: 297,300*
Route: From Balmoral Golf Club to Belfast Central Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 15 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via the A12).
It would take 25 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (via the Nir line from Balmoral Train Station).
It would take 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the A1).
It would take 18 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via the A1 and National Cycle Route 9).
Quickest form of transport: Driving
Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
The current population of Newcastle-upon-Tyne is: 282,338*
Route: From intu Metrocentre to Newcastle Central Station
Below we have inserted a short guide on what a typical journey of this route will be: It would take 14 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when driving (via the A1).
It would take 21 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by public transport (via the Northern ScotRail line from the Metrocentre).
It would take 1 hour 15 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route by walking (via the A1114).
It would take 29 minutes to complete the journey by taking the quickest route when cycling (via National Cycle Route 14).
Quickest form of transport: Driving
Population figures taken from: http://www.citymayors.com/gratis/uk_topcities.htmland the journey times were taken from figures recorded by Google Maps between 08.30 and 10.30 GMT on 23/12/2016.
Fire safety is something that has no doubt been at the forefront of everyone’s minds, given the recent tragedy at Grenfell Tower. Not only this, but a nationwide fire safety check was carried out on high-rise buildings, being regularly commented on by national and regional news. With that in mind, it’s probably made you think a little more about your own safety when it comes to fire hazards.
From 2015 to 2016, fire and rescue services attended 529,000 incidents. 31% were fires, while 41% were fire false alarms. It was recorded that the highest percentage of fires were caused by cooking appliances, and the highest number of fatalities caused by fires came from smoking materials such as cigarettes. Most fatalities from fires occur with people aged 80 and over. As such, it’s clear that your property should be fitted with the correct equipment to keep you as safe as possible.
Protecting your home
In a world where we become more dependent on electrical appliances and devices, our awareness for fire safety should increase accordingly. Faulty electrical components can cause fires in homes; manufacturers can occasionally have to carry out product recalls for safety reasons.
While this shouldn’t scare you into unplugging all your electrical devices, it’s important to be aware of the risks. So what can you do to make sure your home is safe from fire?
Working smoke alarms
Did you know that if you don’t have a working smoke alarm in your home, you’re 4 times as likely to die from a fire? Having a smoke alarm is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your family and home, should a fire occur. In 2015/6 it was reported that 89% of households have a working smoke alarm; which means there is still 11% of the country that don’t.
Fit at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home; they’re cheap and easy to install, so there’s no excuse! A 10-year smoke alarm battery is the best choice; they save you having to remember to change the battery regularly.
However, you should still test the battery at least once a month. Press the button to test that it’s working properly; if the alarm doesn’t sound, then you should replace the battery.
Top tips to prevent a fire
It may all sound like common knowledge, but you’d be surprised at how easy it is to forget these tips. Don’t overload your plug sockets, especially an extension lead. They will have a limit on how many amps they can take and overloading could put you at risk. Keep your eye out for dangerous or naked wires; replace any old cables, particularly if they are under carpets or behind furniture.
The likes of candles and cigarettes should be handled with care and always kept in a safe place away from children. You may be surprised how easily your sofa could catch fire from a cigarette. It’s also wise to ensure your fire extinguishers – should you have one or more – are working. Considering investing in fire curtains and fire blankets, too.
Keep your eye out for Home Safety Week, happening from 2nd-8th October. Designed to raise awareness of the risk of accidental fires in the home, your local fire and rescue service may be offering advice and reminding you of the steps you can take.
What do you think, when you hear the name Porthmadog? You probably already know this is a fascinating and thriving coastal town near Snowdonia. You may have even called in on your way to the many attractions in the area.
But did you realise that Porthmadog offers a rich treasure trove of reasons to stay awhile? And there are quite a few hidden gems there that even the most loyal visitors may not know about.
Beaches best known, and quieter spots
One of the many great attractions Porthmadog offers to visitors is its splendid beaches, none more so than Black Rock Sands and Morfa Bychan Beach which are just along the coast from the town.
This large stretch of stunning sand could hardly be described as a hidden gem as it has been visited and loved by countless holiday makers staying in hotels in Porthmadog for many years.
This is not surprising, as it is a truly amazing piece of coastland, affording a view of the sea framed by the southern Snowdonia mountains. Black Rock Sands is a site of Special Scientific Interest, so it is certainly a place to linger and explore.
However, though you may already be familiar with Black Rock Sands and Morfa Bychan Beach, you could have missed out on a lesser known coastal treat in the area – Borth-y-Gest beaches. These take a bit more time to find as they are a diverse range of bays and coves; however, they offer huge potential to explore. Or simply find a quiet haven of peace in one of the coastal nooks to soak up the views across the estuary to Portmeirion.
Wild water swimming
An even more remote, hidden gem awaits those who want to go even further off the beaten track. A few miles out of Porthmadog you can follow a trail to Cwm Pennant, an incredible freshwater blue lagoon tucked away in one of Snowdonia’s most remote and beautiful valleys. The author of Wild Swimming, Daniel Start, lists it amongst his favourite waters.
Getting out in the great outdoors
You can’t come to this part of Wales without having a look at some part of the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways and the Welsh Highland Heritage Railways. However, if you want to spot some of this area’s more remote natural locations, then another form of transport may help.
If you are staying in a hotel in Porthmadog, ask about local quad bike excursions. It’s a great way to see the incredible unspoilt mountain sides and coastal paths in all their splendour. Another outdoor location that’s a hidden gem around Porthmadog is Glaslyn Ospreys, on the banks of the River Glaslyn, north east of the town. It is the perfect spot for a picnic, or to patiently wait for a sighting of rare ospreys in some months.
Heritage and attractions
Folklore and the draw of the sea give this part of Wales much of its unique and fascinating culture, and there are places around Porthmadog to soak it all up, especially the well-curated Maritime Museum.
But there are other ways to experience the flavours and ambience of Welsh traditions in Porthmadog such as the Purple Moose Brewery. It doesn’t just sell its own unique beverages but also brews and distillations from other Welsh producers.
Enjoying holidays and short breaks in ahotel in Porthmadog means being able to soak up Welsh culture in other ways too. This is a part of the world that has nurtured and attracted many Welsh authors, poets, artists and musicians.
If are staying in a hotel in Porthmadog, leave time to experience all the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of this inspiring area. Pop to the Y Ganolfan Arts Centre in Porthmadog to see what modern-day inspiration has arisen from the town. And take a leisurely stroll through Porthmadog’s lovely shopping streets to seek out the craft shops that offer locally produced goods at fair prices.
Stay a while
There is one more gem for visitors to find on their holidays and breaks to Porthmadog – the beautiful Golden Fleece Inn. The friendly and welcoming staff at this relaxing hotel in Porthmadog are always happy to share their local knowledge with visitors.
When it comes to fresh herbs, shoppers are really spoilt for choice. There are a host of herbs to choose from, each with their own individual flavour, aroma and appearance. They can all make a real difference to so many different dishes and the great news is that you don’t need to be a chef to make the most of this kitchen essential.
Jekka McVicar who widely recognised as one of the country’s foremost experts on herbs and creator of Jamie Oliver’s herb garden shares her favourite herbs to cook with in the autumn and winter.
Sage
Sage’s deep flavour is well suited to more ‘substantial’ winter dishes, so it’s perfect for stews, slow cook dishes and stuffings of course! However one of my favourite ways to enjoy it is fresh pasta tossed in a sage butter. You can also fry the leaves to make a deliciously different garnish.
Basil
Basil’s fabulous fragranceand peppery, spicy flavour complements so many foods, both savoury and sweet. It is a member of the mint family, which when used in cooking helps stimulate digestion and is a beneficial antioxidant. I use it liberally in dishes from pasta and custards, to teas, salads and sauces. It’s also great with chocolate. Tear basil rather than cutting with a knife as this can make it discolour. Basil is a good friend to have in the kitchen because it also repels flies!
Chives
Chives are a member of the onion family and have a mild onion flavour which combines well with a huge range of dishes, making it practically indispensable in the kitchen. It is one of the most ancient herbs with records of its existence and use dating back to 3,000 BC. I like to use freshly snipped chives in omelettes, scrambled eggs, salads and add to soured cream as a filling for jacket potatoes. Its leaves are also good sprinkled on soup or on grilled meat. Add chives towards the end of cooking because if they are cooked for too long they lose their delicious onion flavour and become bitter.
Coriander
Coriander is a love or hate it herb but I adore it. It was brought to Northern Europe by the Romans, who combining it with cumin and vinegar, rubbed it into meat as a preservative. It partners really well with spices, garlic, ginger and chilli. Many people just use the leaves but the stalks are full of flavour. You can make a great base for curries by combining coriander stalks, chilli, onion and garlic and blending with a hand processor.
Parsley
Parsley is one of the most widely used herbs throughout the world and has been popular since records began. It’s much more than a garnish and it’s fresh, grassy flavour can really lift and enhance food, particularly more subtle flavoured dishes. It’s great with mushrooms, sauces and soups. As with coriander, don’t discard the stems as they are packed full of flavour.
Mint
Mint’s cool and clean flavour can do much for sweet and savoury dishes alike, whether mixed in with a fruit salad, with couscous or as a classic mint sauce. Freshly picked mint leaves make a simple, refreshing mint tea and are a stunning way to finish cakes. It is also perfect with new potatoes and really brings out their flavour. It also has a rich history, one of my favourite stories is that the ancient Greeks believed that a wreath of mint placed near your head could exorcise an impending hangover!
Rosemary
Rosemary is one of the most versatile and useful herbs in the kitchen, it is also associated with love, friendship and remembrance. It’s highly aromatic and its essential oils not only flavour food but help tenderise meat. Marinating lamb with chopped rosemary or adding sprigs when roasting vegetables are just a couple of the many ways to use a pot of fresh rosemary. It’s also great in bread.
Thyme
Thyme is a strong, robust flavoured herb with small leaves and a favourite with many chefs. It radiates warmth and sunlight and when used in cooking fills the kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma. Use the leaves and young stems of living thyme to add flavour to a host of dishes from vegetables such as carrots through to meat and poultry. Try rolling it into pastry, pizza or bread dough to add another dimension to your meal.
If you haven’t been to the stunning Grade II listed Crocker’s Folly in St John’s Wood, north west London, it’s about time you did. Especially since owners, Maroush Group, have gone back to their roots with a brand new menu that embraces the very best of Lebanese cuisine. Here’s 5 ideal reasons to eat there this week:
50% off food
To celebrate the new menu, there’s 50% off food from 14th – 31st August, lunch and dinner, by reservation only via www.crockersfolly.com or telephone, 020 7289 9898. The 50% discount applies to food only when ordering from the a la carte menu
Bar Bites
Tired of scotch eggs, sausage rolls, pork pies and your other ubiquitous bar snacks? Then you’ll be thrilled with the bar bites menu here. It features lots of small dishes with a Lebanese twist that are perfect for sharing. Try the spicy Lebanese sausages sautéed in lemon and tomato sauce; mini shawarma bites; and quinoa tabbouleh.
Mezza
Find a fantastic array of mezza, sharing platters and grilled meats from the Josper on the menu, as well as artisan breads and pastries from the in-house bakery. Traditional favourites such as melt-in-the-mouth falafel and homemade hummus sit alongside signatures like Sheikh al Mehshi, aubergine filled with minced lamb, pine nuts and onion baked in tomato sauce; and kastaleta veal cutlet cooked on the Josper.
Baked Lebanese pastries
The baked Lebanese pastries, which come with a variety of fillings including minced lamb, spinach or halloumi, are ridiculously delicious.
Contemporary Cocktails
The bar, previously a decadent Victorian gin palace, serves contemporary cocktails with a Middle Eastern twist and include the Julep Baklava – whiskey blended with pistachios and brown sugar. You can also try many excellent Lebanese wines at Crocker’s Folly,
When you decide to start a family, there can be a lot of change, including how you decorate, and designate, your home. While designing an interior around your children might conjure up images of robust, practical furniture and plastic toy boxes in every corner, it doesn’t have to be this way. It’s still possible to create a beautiful, luxurious home that is completely child-friendly.
With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at the living room — the hub of your home, where you will spend most of your family time together. A few simple design choices can maintain the stylish look that you loved before the kids came along while making things more child-orientated. Here are our five IDEAL ways to create a luxurious family living room.
INVEST IN AN ELEGANT BUT HARDWEARING SOFA
We’ll start with the item of furniture you’ll probably use the most —your sofa. Just because you’ve got children doesn’t mean you need to encase your cushions in protective covers — by making a smart buying choice, you can own one that can stand up to the rigours of family life.
Leather is a great choice for your upholstery for its hardwearing and easy-to-clean properties — plus it looks fantastic, especially if it is a luxury leather that ages beautifully. Choose a classic design — such as one of these Chesterfield sofas from Timeless Chesterfields — for a look that won’t go out of style. These particular pieces are handmade with strong beech frames, sturdy suspension, and premium leather so you can be sure they will withstand daily use by your family.
WOOL RUGS ARE NATURALLY BRILLIANT
An area rug is a great way of adding something extra special to your space. You can use a rug to add more colour or make a statement, as well as softening the look of a coffee table by positioning it beneath, giving you plenty of options. It can, however, be tough to pick a material that is family-friendly if you’re not in the know.
In our opinion, you won’t find a better material than natural wool for a family living room rug. Wool has many inherent characteristics that make it an obvious choice, such as its resistance to stains, its resilience to wear and tear, and the fact that it is hypoallergenic. Modern Rugs have a great range of wool rugs with both contemporary geometric and more traditional patterns available. They’ve got free delivery on everything too.
CHOOSE A CHILD-FRIENDLY COFFEE TABLE
The aforementioned coffee table is a great option for your living room — not only does it tie a space together, but it also provides a practical surface for when you’ve got friends and family round for a visit. However, many people think they have to lose their coffee table once they’ve got small children who may be unsteady on their feet thanks to the hazard posed by their low height and sharp corners.
This simply isn’t the case, as there are plenty of stylish tables with a rounded design that are much more child-friendly in shape without any right-angles at all. Many furniture makers produce these tables, so you should have little trouble finding one that suits the luxury design of your living room.
GET SOME STYLISH SHELVING TO KEEP ITEMS UP A HEIGHT
Young children learn by picking things up (and dropping them), so you may be tempted to part with many of your sentimental knick-knacks when redecorating your living room. Instead, why not put up some stylish shelves that can be used to store your belongings safely out of grabbing range of your little ones? Plus, the space beneath the shelves may even provide extra space for your kids’ belongings too. Take a look at Houzz’s 13 ideas for living room shelving, where you’ll find some clever suggestions about how you can add extra storage to your home.
A TV UNIT CAN HIDE UNSIGHTLY CLUTTER
If you’ve got children who are a little older, you’re likely to spend time together watching their favourite cartoons and playing their favourite video games. Unfortunately, with every new game console and Blu-ray player comes an abundance of extra wires, boxes and controls that can clutter up your living room.
By investing in a nice TV unit, you’ll have an item of furniture that can not only enhance the focus of your room, but allow you to hide wires and provide storage for DVD cases and other gadgets. The Independent rounded-up their favourite flat screen TV unit designs, recommending a variety tables and cabinets to suit all tastes and budgets.
Take these five recommendations on board to create a living room that balances both luxurious style and child-friendliness. You can look forward to many hours spent together in the comfort of your beautiful space.
There’s never a good time to talk to a cold caller, is there? Somehow they either manage to ring halfway through EastEnders, when we’re just about to sit down for a meal, or about to walk out of the door.
We get that these guys are just trying to make a living, and they’re only doing their job. If we’re the ones irritated by an unwanted call, just imagine how the cold callers feel, facing rejection after rejection during an eight hour shift. However, we still hate getting cold calls, especially if it’s about recovering PPI refunds
So how do you deal with cold callers? Wired and wireless telephone headset provider Headsets4Business.co.uk carried out a survey of 1,500 people and found that most of us immediately put the phone down on someone trying to sell them something, especially if it’s about double glazing or insurance. Others are honest and say they’re not interested, while a lot us say we’re too busy or pretend we’re just about to sit down to a meal.
Instead of getting annoyed with cold calls, we say it could be the perfect opportunity to inject a little fun into your day. Why not annoy them, play a trick, or better yet – waste their time. Here’s our IDEAL guide for dealing with cold callers.
Pretend you can’t hear them
Play along with them, but pretend you can’t hear them very well. The cold caller will soon get off the phone if the they have to repeat themselves over and over again.
Sell them something.
Try to sell them something instead. Oh how the tables will turn.
Consider them your Agony Aunt
Consider the cold caller your own personal Agony Aunt. Tell them your woes and troubles or make up some elaborate story. You never know – you could get some good advice out of it.
Role play
The cold callers side of the call is scripted, so have a little fun with it. When they ask if you pay the bills or are the homeowner, reply by saying you’re the burglar, or you’re having an affair with the homeowner. They have to be polite and keep to the script, so role play for as long as you like.
Be kind
Remember, this is their job. So try to be kind, even when you’re having some fun with it.
In a report last year, it was revealed that less than one third of UK workers, just 30%, take proper lunch breaks, such as taking a break from their desks, going outdoors for a walk, or dropping into a cafe.
The survey was conducted by the National Charity Partnership, with 1,700 workers participating. They discovered that the remaining 70% of workers spend their time at their desks working (24%) or browsing the internet (46%).
But who, precisely, is skipping lunch breaks? And why? According to the survey, it’s women – with just 15% taking a lunch break outside the office compared to 35% of men – and those over the age of 24 being the most likely candidates. Over one third of people cited ‘having too much work’ as a reason for staying put during lunch, one in eight said ‘stress levels’, and one in eight blamed the ‘workplace culture’. Others comments included not ‘being bothered’ or ‘prefering the internet to the outdoors’.
Retailer of dinner sets, Oldrids & Downton, has investigated why proper lunch breaks are so IDEAL in the workplace, both to productivity and job satisfaction.
What is expected from employers?
Employers are expected to stick to a set of pre-determined legal terms with their employees. Workers who are over 18 are entitled to rest breaks (lunch breaks, for example), daily rest (11 hours between working days) and weekly breaks (either 24 hours uninterrupted break each week, or 48 hours uninterrupted work each fortnight).
Rest breaks are required when working for 6 hours or longer – employers are legally required to allow you at least one 20-minute break during the shift. Employees should take breaks in the middle of the day, and be allowed to spend their break away from their workstation.
Why are lunch breaks important for employers?
Almost 10 million working days are lost a year as a result of work-related stress – so anything employers can do to encourage wellbeing at work is beneficial to the success of the business as a whole.
Lunch breaks are also known to increase the productivity of workers – especially if short breaks are factored in too. This is strengthened further when accompanied by a nutritious lunch, which will give workers the right nutrients and fuel for the rest of the day.
Why are lunch breaks important for workers?
According to respondents to the National Charity Partnership survey, 90% of workers who take a proper lunch break felt ‘happier and more positive’ as a result. So why is that? Reasons could include:
You can get things done. Taking a proper lunch will allow you to catch up on life administration or run some errands, giving you more time in the evening to relax.
You can take in something tasty. Your lunch break gives you an opportunity to take in essential nutrients to keep you going for the rest of the day.
You can sneak in some exercise. People with an hour-long lunch have time on their side to sneak in a lunchtime workout during their lunch, but even with the minimum 20 mins you can take a stroll, up your step count and take in some fresh air.
How can employers encourage lunch breaks?
With the benefits clearly outlined, it’s important that employers encourage their staff to take their lunch break. There are a number of things that can be done to promote a proper lunch break, helping staff enjoy their working day more and increasing their productivity during working hours…
Lead by example. If your employees see you working through lunch, they may feel like this is expected of them too.
Create a workplace environment that encourages employees to take breaks
Designate a space in your workplace – such as a kitchen or dining room – that employees can relax in to get away from their desks
Supply healthy snacks to encourage a culture of healthy eating to accompany a healthier attitude to taking breaks.
Provide distractions from phones and screens. If you have room in your designated break space, include light reading materials (magazines and newspapers) and other forms of entertainment, so workers can enjoy their break in a dedicated environment, free from screens
Encourage additional breaks. There are stressful moments in everyone’s jobs, so make it clear to employees that if they need to take an extra break for some fresh air, they can – and that their lunch break will be unaffected.
It is vital to office harmony that people take a proper lunch break, away from screens and work distractions. Workplaces and workers alike will see the benefit, so no excuses – step away from that screen now!
With the promise of warm days and nights and potential visits abroad to lounge by pools and on the beach, your summer wardrobe is probably itching for an update. Top it up with these nine IDEAL fashion essentials and mix and match these with pieces you already own.
The day to night joggers
Summer might not bring images of joggers to mind, but this season we’re seeing drawstring waistband styles that are lightweight enough to wear all day at the office with a smart shirt, and with a bralet and heels for an easy holiday evening style.
The easy to style cami top
Cami tops are perfect for summer styling. Add one to a simple pair of skinny jeans and fashion trainers for a casual look, or tuck into a leather mini skirt for easy evening wear. Look for halter-neck styles to stay on trend this season but opt for easy to wear colours such as black and khaki.
The throw on maxi dress
A bodycon style maxi dress is definitely a fashion essential for summer 2017 – it works as an easy cover up for the beach but can also see you through to the evening when you head out for dinner and drinks on holiday.
The slip on sliders
Retro sportswear style sliders were once reserved for the sandal and sock wearing types but this trend has come into its own in 2017, with everyone donning a pair by the pool. A navy or black pair work with any bikini, while for the evening, faux fur style mules are an alternative choice if you’re looking to make a strong first impression.
The Dad hat
No longer reserved for your pops on holiday, the dad hat is essentially a baseball cap featuring a fun slogan or logo. Both the perfect way of shielding your face from the sun this summer and of looking on-trend, it’s a practical and fashionable essential for summer 2017 and a huge range of high street stores are selling this style.
The cool kimono
The kimono is a cover-up style that comes and goes as each summer rolls around but it’s always a wardrobe necessity. Pull out the one you picked up last season or grab a new one featuring plenty of tassels and paisley print to nail that typical holiday style.
The simple straw bag
Straw beach bags are being enjoyed by the fashion elite currently, and work for the beach. Grab one of these in a simple tote style or opt for a structured picnic basket version which should keep everything in place whatever you get up to on your summer hols.
The Bardot sundress
Bardot cuts are still proving popular, so grab a summer dress with plenty of shoulder and you will nail summer styling. You won’t end up with dodgy tan lines and it’s the perfect top to create a fun, summery look.
The gingham bralet
Gingham may remind you of those summer dresses you wore as a child at primary school but it’s back with a bang this summer on everything from lightweight summer dresses to Bardot tops. Pick up a bralet featuring the print in black and white for retro vibes and pair this with high-waisted trousers for an easy festival style.
For more information visit: www.thesiamhotel.com
