We’ve teamed up with Fresh Faced Skincare to giveaway a Purifying Bar to 3 lucky readers.
It’s always a confidence knock when you suffer from acne and spots. And even though a high proportion of people suffer from breakouts in their adult life, sometimes you feel like you’re the only one.
There are loads of ways to help fight inflammations, but you have to be careful not to make them worse at the same time. Enter Fresh Faced Skincare’s Purifying Bar.
This amazing Purifying Bar uses a unique combination of natural ingredients that target redness, inflammation, and other common skin concerns.
Handmade with natural ingredients, by Oncology Esthetician and Skin Care Expert Erica, the Purifying Bar has two kinds of clay to absorb oil and fight bacteria that can cause breakouts, and natural anti-inflammatory ingredients to soothe and pamper the skin.
Results of a study show that the Purifying Bar:
Cleared 96% of problematic skin in 14 days
Improved 96% of redness in 14 days
100% of skin was soft and smooth after use
Gentle enough for sensitive skin, the Purifying Bar can be used on the face and body, and is perfect for use as a shaving cream.
To be in with a chance of winning one of these Purifying Bars simply follow the below steps:
Retweet the competition post on Twitter via @ideal_mag
If you’re not our lucky winner worry not, they are available from Fresh Faced Skincare: freshfacedskincare.com
Terms and Conditions
Competition runs from Tuesday 1st August 2017 – Monday 14th August 2017
Any entries made after the closing date or through a different method will not be counted. The winner will be selected and notified by IDEAL. The winner will then have one week after the announcement date to message their address details to IDEAL magazine. If the winner fails to do this within a week a new winner will be selected at random. Prizes are not exchangeable for cash or any other item.
It is a condition of your entry to our Competitions that we have the right to publicise to the public the names and Counties of entrants to our Competitions and otherwise to processyour personal information for the running of the Competitions and matters incidental to the Competition.
We reserve the right to reject any entries that are inaudible,incomplete,incomprehensible, damaged or otherwise deficient. We also reserve the right to reject entries that are unlawful, indecent, racist, inflammatory, and defamatory or which we consider to be otherwise harmful to the goodwill and reputation of any of our publications, websites or brands.
We accept no responsibility for any late, lost or misdirected entries. We will not be liable for any prizes which are lost, delayed or damaged in the post for reasons beyond our control. Third party suppliers of prizes may also often stipulate their own terms, conditions or restrictions and all prize winners agree to be bound by these.
Entrants will be deemed to have accepted these terms and conditions and to have agreed to be bound by them when entering this competition.
Looking for a different summer city break this year? Then say hello to the spellbinding city of Chania. Located on the Northwest coast of Crete, it’s fast becoming one of the Mediterranean’s ‘must sees’ and a hot new destination for UK travelers and for good reason too.
The architecture and atmosphere of Chania will charm you from the moment you arrive, inviting you to explore it’s captivating streets and endless hidden treasures. With its utterly enchanting Venetian harbour and lighthouse, its Riviera-rivalling beaches and a seamless blend of Ottoman, Venetian and Greek architecture, Chania really is a wonderful destination.
Ancient History
If you’re a culture vulture then you will love Chania. It’s a place where different civilisations have flourished throughout the centuries. From Minoans, Dorians, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese, Egyptians and Ottoman Turks, throughout the city you’ll see the influences of all these civilisations, evident in its architecture, elaborate places of worship and well-preserved historical monuments.
Thriving Night-Life
Move over Mykonos, there’s a new playground paradise. Chania is fast becoming known for its hip, trendy bar scene which attracts a new age of globe-trotting travellers from all over. There are lots of fabulous beach bars close to the city, offering a variety of all-day lounge bars and all nighter events hosted by international DJ’s.
Nature at your Fingertips
Not only does Chania have a gorgeous marina and city streets, it also has the UNESCO Biosphere reserve of Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest canyons. You’ll be left in awe after walking the infamous narrow passage, Portes (only 3km wide). Filled with Greek wildlife and remarkable views, the scenery in this area is simply breathtaking. If you’re lucky you’ll see the famous, protected Kri-Kri goat which inhabits the islands. The pretty pebble beach of Agia Roumeli is also a must.
Top Tip: Domes Noruz, Chania offers one of the best tours of this area. You can organise day trips from their hotel where you will be collected and guided.
The Food
Chania is the ideal place for foodies and is full of local culinary delights. A must visit is the Chania Municipal Market. Here you can taste local cheeses like yraviéra (full fat sheep’s cheese) and anthótyros (soft, white cheese made of either sheep’s or goat’s milk). If you go to a local restaurant don’t miss out on dishes such as hohlioi bourbouristoi (escargots) which is a local specialty or staka (a local salty creamy-cheese). Kreatotourta (a meat-pie) is also delicious. And if you get a chance, try the Cretan wedding rice which is cooked in meat broth. Roasted goat and sea-urchin salad are also delicious specialities.
Landmark beaches
With some of the most beautiful stretches of sand in Greece, Chania boasts several stunning beaches to fall in love with at first sight. Take a trip to the predominantly green area of Agioi Apostoli where you can relax in the natural shade of the eucalyptus trees. Also go to Balos beach, known as ‘The Beautiful One’ for its crystal-like turquoise waters and rose coloured dunes.
Where to stay?
We love Dome Noruz, Chania. The hotel is absolutely stunning and offers a wellness package so you leave feeling energised with a renewed sense of well-being.
With Bahrain’s popularity soaring, The Ritz-Carlton is the perfect place to explore the best of Bahrain in luxury. Desirably located on Bahrain Island’s north coast and just three kilometres from the enticing souk and style of Manama city centre, guests can lose themselves with an abundance of activities from pearl diving the Arabian coastline to boat trips through the Gulf’s stunning islands. Here’s 5 IDEAL reasons to stay at the hotel.
Diving for Treasure – and what you find, you keep
The oldest gem known to man, a symbol of purity, wisdom, beauty and wealth; Bahrain was once the supplier of 80% of the world’s pearl market. Guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain can explore over 400 square miles of oyster beds and experience the truly unique and world-famous pearl diving of Bahrain. Believed to be the best pearls in the world, those who find a pearl whilst diving can take it home, making it a very valuable souvenir.
Island hopping and Dolphin Spotting
With 33 islands close by and a brand new marina, explore some of the hidden enclaves and sandy inlets that the Kingdom of Bahrain has to offer. The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain is the ideal launch pad for boat trips. Explore the golden sands and crystal-blue waters of an Indian Ocean or simply choose one of the many local island-hopping experiences on offer – savouring the best there is of the stunning local scenery accompanied by the gentle rocking of the waves.
Formula One Family Fun
Go Kart racing on a Formula One track or get wet and wild indoor Waterpark. Bahrain’s International Circuit provides go-karts to anyone above the age of 12. Wahoo! Waterpark is the Middle East’s first ever indoor waterpark, with a number of thrilling rides and attractions that the whole family can enjoy. The hotel will help arrange a fun day out for you.
An Arabian Safari – Explore the Wildlife
Animal lovers should make sure the Al Areen Wildlife Park is at the very tip top of their list and ask the concierge to arrange a visit. Bahrain was perhaps the first Arab country to realize the rapid decline of many native wild animal populations in the region and the urgent need to implement safety measures to ensure survival. Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve was as a response by the Kingdom of Bahrain to the conservation of wildlife in the Middle East. Enjoy visiting rare animals such as the Arabian Leopard, the Arabian Gazelle and the Oryx.
Step Into Another World
Walk back through time at the prodigious Bahrain National Museum, which displays priceless artefacts highlighting Bahrain’s 6,000-year history. These include authentic ancient burial mounds as well as amphorae, copper pots and other objects from Dilmun, the ancient civilisation that blossomed over two millennia B.C. Among the precious pieces on display is a tableau depicting a scene from the Epic of Gilgamesh, the Mesopotamian epic poem believed to be one of the earliest known works of literature. Also arrange a car through the Concierge, to take you to the Ahmed Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, with its incredible fibreglass Dome, it is one of the largest mosques in the world, at 6,500 square metres, and holds more than 7,000 worshippers at prayer times.
Living in London, it’s all easy to avoid central London altogether for weeks or even months on end. I’m all too guilty of staying in my South London Peckham bubble at weekends (anything to avoid tubes, crowds and day trippers). But occasionally I venture out to places that make me forget about the crowds, and swoon like the most starry-eyed tourist at our beautiful city. Gillray’s restaurant on Southbank is one such place.
The Idea
Named after James Gillray, the 18th century caricaturist famous for his etched political and social satire sketches, the restaurant and bar reflect the political history of the County Hall and the eccentric style and humour of the renowned English personality.
The Location
The restaurant is smack-bang on the riverside, with amazing views over the Thames of the London Eye, Houses of Parliament and Big Ben which look especially good after nightfall and a few gin & tonics when everything’s lit up and looking as lovely as only London can.
The Food
To go with this quintessential British view, the food at Gillray’s is an equally matched lesson in majestically classic English dishes. We had a platter of fresh Oysters to start along with some delicious and all-to-quickly-gone Scallops with Pea Puree, Mint and Smoked Bacon. Main courses are all about the Steaks at Gillray’s, with the Waiter even bringing over a case of different Vintage looking knives so you can choose your weapon – we loved this. My dining partner went for the 600g T Bone Steak which was no word of a lie bigger than his head, while I went for the much more modest 250g Sirloin. These came with mouth-watering sides of tripple cooked chips, Bone Marrow and Confit Cherry Tomatoes. We finished our Great British meal with a Sticky Toffee Pudding and Cambridge Burnt Cream with Rhubarb (basically a Creme Brulee – so delicious).
The Drink
The real surprise of the night however was Gillrays Bar, which we stayed in far longer than anticipated chatting to the incredibly knowledgeable Bar Manager Sam Mitchell, who gave us tasters of the house infused Gillrays sloe gin and barrel infused sherry. It’s a real hidden gem – a beautiful circular high ceilinged room with stunning river views and Jade Green leather banquet seating. They stock over 100 different Gins – I had the Monkey 47 served beautifully in a balloon glass with pink tonic, dehydrated lime, lavender and grapefruit. An Instagram dream. Open until Midnight, it really is a destination bar in its own right and I’ll definitely be back for a hit of British fabulousness – which definitely includes more gin.
Must Try
As well as a comprehensive gin list, the cocktail menu is also full of lovely seasonal creations such as our favourite – the Jubilee with Mint, Rhubarb and Ginger Jam Infused Gin and Lemon.
Why Go
Fall in love (or back in love) with London and enjoy the freshest UK produce such as Clarence Court Eggs, meat from O’Sheas Butchers and fish from Billingsgate Fish Market.
Address: London County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB
You’ve probably heard of Dayton, Ohio – although debated by some it’s known as the birthplace of Aviation after all. Well, located in Dayton is Beavercreek. This bustling place is the largest city in Greene County and has even been ranked in Money‘s Top 100 places to live in America. Whether you’re interested in visiting, or looking to move there, we’ve handpicked some of our favourite things to do in Beavercreek.
Annual Popcorn Festival
Whether you like it buttery, cheesy or flavoured with toffee, popcorn junkies will love The Beavercreek Popcorn Festival which is held annually the weekend after Labor Day. This fantastic festival pays tribute to one of America’s favourite snacks with over 200 booths of tantalizing treats made with Popcorn.
Shopping at The Mall and The Greene
With numerous shopping centres and specialty stores spread throughout the town, shopaholics will love Beavercreek. The Mall at Fairfield Commons is one of the most popular attractions in town. With nearly 90 different shops and restaurants, The Greene is also a great for shopping and more.
Ice cream at Kilwins
If you have a sweet tooth, a trip to Kilwins is a must. Offering the best chocolate, fudge, and ice-cream in town, this company is an American institution since 1947.
Also known as float therapy, the floatation experience at the Gravity Spa is a must. What is flotation therapy? Well flotation is a method of relieving stress. A tank is filled with warm water and Epsom salts, creating incredibly buoyant water for you to float on. Once you’re floating in the water, you lose track of where your body ends and the water begins. Some people say it’s like floating in space.
Beaver-Vu Bowl
With 64 lanes, 2 bars, a full service cafe and Perky’s Pizza, weekends at Beaver-Vu Bowl are always fun. Oh and every weekend they offer Beaver Vu Lights where they transform into a nightclub for older patrons.
You’re sure to find a familiar named hotel or inn to spend the night or longer. With establishments linked to Marriott, AAA, and Hilton, to name a few, you know you will be well cared for. Why not also turn your accommodation into a part of your travel adventure? Mills Park Hotel provide a modern yet historical experience, with Stonehill Village including leisure trails to enjoy the outdoors.
Where to buy
If spending a week in Beavercreek whets your appetite and you can’t imagine leaving, why not begin your search for the perfect home, land, or condo property to buy at Oceanfront HHI. You can search using criteria such as neighbourhood, price range, property type, and amenities. High definition photographs and videos accompany the listings, making you feel like you are already there enjoying the warm and friendly atmosphere.
Whether you’re staying for one day, or making the big move, Beavercreek is a wonderful place to be. It has been rated in the Top 100 Great American Towns, with the motto: ‘Linking Business with Community’ evident is all its endeavours.
Bangkok is every foodies heaven. Everywhere you turn, you’ll find food. From many of Asia’s top restaurants, to fancy shopping malls to the street corners, food dominates the landscape. The problem is, if you’re only in Bangkok for a short time, it’s hard to narrow down the must-try dishes of the city. With this in mind we asked Chef Bo and Chef Dylan from renowned restaurant Bo.Lan, to share their favourite dishes to eat in the capital. Enjoy.
N.B Bangkok’s food scene is vibrant and eclectic, it’s for this reason some of their top 5 dishes of Bangkok aren’t even Thai.
Nahm Prik Gapi
This is probably one of the most quintessential Thai Dishes around. Essentially, it’s a simple chili relish of shrimp paste. But once you really get into a good one, your whole world view changes. For us great ones are also about what they are served with. The more standard (and forgive me for being rude) lazy versions are served with carrot and other assorted veg. But the great ones do not go near the carrot, they use a plethora of edible plants, shrubs, flowers and fruits. Often also accompanied by a grilled bullet head mackerel or a personal favourite of fluffy Cham omelette. The paste itself can be made from using all fresh ingredients but sometimes it’s also found using grilled ingredients which adds a pleasant smoky flavour. The best thing about Nahm Prik Gapi is that it can be a meal all in itself.
Proper Thai Curry
I say proper and I mean proper, forget that stuff in the streets, made using a commercial industrial paste and UHT or canned coconut cream! I’m talking a hand pounded paste using the freshest of ingredients, pounded specifically for the desired protein. The protein dictates what should be in the paste, for example, it’s not just one green curry paste fits all. If it’s for fish then it will lack many dried spices that you’d find for beef but it will have loads of grachai which is omitted from the beef one. A proper curry uses freshly squeezed coconut cream (if it’s a coconut based curry), the cream is reduced until it separates and the curry is then fried, not boiled. For us a proper curry takes your palate on a luxurious roller coaster, there’s complexity and subtleness, there’s texture and balance. A real proper curry cooked by a credible cook will flip your perception of Thai curries.
Duck Noodle Soup
This is a fairly common dish in shop houses and street stall around the city but there are a few who do a remarkable job. I guess it comes down to two factors, caring or not. The ones who care find great ducks that have been raised with care and slaughtered humanely. They use the whole duck, nothing is wasted, not even the blood. The blood is the best part if done well. At our favourite venue Xia Duck Noodle, order a bowl of duck noodles but also order a bowl of braised duck with extra blood. The blood in the latter is soft, yet firm, seasoned perfectly so you still get a sense of iron but it’s not metallic. It almost pops in your mouth. The noodles are always cooked just right and the fact they sell out every night attests to something.
Chicken Liver on Toast
This dish is found in only one spot and that’s at the new restaurant called Gaa. Actually, almost every dish they do is bloody brilliant but for the sake of this I’ve chosen their Chicken Liver On Toast. We love Gaa because they only use and source local produce, they make almost everything entirely in house from scratch. They care basically! The Liver On Toast is a great example of the skill and cleverness of the cook. You think liver on toast, but it’s been elevated to a whole other level! I’d tell you how but it would ruin the surprise. Go now before you can’t.
Brotzeit
Yep it’s a classic German working man’s food but when done by a set of German twins it’s the stuff of legends. I could probably eat the Suhring Twins version of this dish daily. It starts with their sour dough, the mother of which is older than the restaurant. Accompanied by house cured meats and fish, home-made pickles and handmade cultured butter. Its simplicity defined, but damn it tastes good. It’s that moment in the meal when everyone just goes quiet and reflects, enjoys the moment. It nourishes the soul.
Can’t remember where your keys are? Worried that you’ve left the iron on? If you are feeling ‘foggy’ and having trouble remembering things check out 10 surprising ways to sharpen your brain!
Unleash your inner Zen
Meditation can not only help relieve stress, but also improve brain function. In one study, participants were asked to practice a guided meditation for 15 to 30 minutes a day for 8 weeks. MRI scans showed not only improved functional connectivity in the default mode network but also slowed shrinkage of the hippocampus, the main part of the brain responsible for memory that usually shrinks with dementia. Participants also showed an overall improvement in cognition and wellbeing.
Tip from: Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading Nutritonist and author of Natural Solutions for Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Go for a chewy
Sitting an exam? Going for a job interview? Reach for a chewing gum! Research found that people who chewed throughout tests of long-term and short-term memory achieved better scores than people who did nod by 35%. What’s the reason behind it? According to scientists, chewing gum increases heart rate and anything that improves delivery of things like oxygen in the brain can potentially enhance cognitive function.
Keep those pearly whites clean
Brushing your teeth regularly will not only keep your smile white but will also boost your memory. Researchers at the University of California found that people who brush their teeth less than once a day might be up to 65% more likely to develop dementia than those who brush it daily. How come? Scientists think that the bacteria that cause gum disease may trigger an immune response in the brain, which destroys neurons and can cause symptoms such as memory loss.
Be social
Making friends and socialising has a great impact on our emotional wellbeing as well as brain functions. How? When speaking to people and building relationships, you have to pay attention to what they say and then use your memory to recall information to be able to hold a conversation.
Curry for dinner?
There is a reason why Turmeric has been described as a superfood. The substance that gives it the yellow/orange colour is known as curcumin, which is the main agent that is responsible for its health giving properties. It has an anti inflammatory effect. Studies have shown that a pinch of turmeric a day keeps memory loss away. Now there is more reason to enjoy your favourite curry!
Doodling
Did you know that doodling during a call or a meeting can actually help you remember what has been said better? One study showed people who doodled while listening performed almost 30% better on a surprise memory quiz than those who did not.
Learn something new
There is a range of techniques to keep your brain alert that doesn’t have to paper-based cognitive tasks. Walking in a new park or taking up line dancing fire up new neural pathways that keep your brain in touch. Needing to remember the steps n a dance is also a wonderful workout for your brain – learning the flow and rhythm of the music stimulates cognitive activity, while learning and performing the steps is great for both your memory and your physical fitness. Active learning is the perfect complement for doing jigsaws, Sudoku and crosswords.
Do yoga
Researchers hypothesise that the positive effects of exercise on cognitive function occur because exercise can increase hippocampal volume by 2%, reversing age-related loss in volume by one to two years. In another study, yoga has been shown to be more effective at improving memory than brain training. Both yoga and brain training improve verbal memory, but the yoga had the added benefit of improving visual-spatial memory too. This is the memory that helps with remembering locations.
Get busy between the sheets
A huge study of more than 6,800 people showed that those who were active in the bedroom had sharpen cognitive function. It is thought that the benefit could come from the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine into the brain during intercourse.
Say it OUT LOUD
This is the easiest of all methods – just say it out loud! Studies published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition, found saying things out loud to yourself will help with recall. How? Scientists call it the production effect: the words you speak aloud are translated into speech and you have knowledge of producing the items as well as a memory of hearing them. All of this information makes your memory store all those details for longer.
Tuscany is one of the best regions in Italy. Everyone should visit Tuscany once in their life. Seriously, this place has something for everyone. From its historic towns, thermal spas and world class wines, it’s the perfect destination with something to suit every holiday need. Here are a few reasons why you need to go there now.
First class wine
Visit the nearby wineries of Montepulciano, Montalcino, San Gimignano and the Chianti region to sample their famous wines.
Proximity to many must see Italian cities
The beautiful cities of Florence, Arezzo, Siena, Pisa, Lucca and Pistoia (the 2017 Italian Capital of Culture) all known for their magnificent fine art, medieval history and architecture.
Foods
Tuscany is known for its fine local produce. Nearby Pienza boasts exquisite Pecorino cheese while premium Tuscan Olive Oil is produced from the many olive groves.
Hospitality
Italians are warm and friendly people who want you to have the best experience in Italy. Everyone you meet in Tuscany will be happy to help, whatever you need!
Stunning views
Tuscany is blessed with wonderful scenery which are best enjoyed over a long lunch – the perfect way to soak up outstanding panoramic views and magical landscapes.
Hilltop towns
Tuscany boasts so many hidden gems including the stunning hilltop towns that are a must see, including Cortona, Pienza, Perugia, Montepulciano, Trequanda, Radicofani. Or an etruscan town as Chiusi or Anghiari – famous for its battle painted by Leonardo da Vinci.
Thermal spas
Tuscany has a collection of spa resorts which offer a range of treatments to relax, revive and rejuvenate including those at Rapolano, Chianciano, Montepulciano, Saturnia and Bagni San Filippo.
Outdoor activities
From mountain biking to horse-riding and hot air ballooning to hiking there is so much to do for those seeking action.
Great dining out
Wonderful restaurants serving delicious Tuscan cuisine are in abundance – it’s impossible to eat badly! Why not try “Pici all’Aglione”, a delicious dish of hand rolled pasta and juicy tomatoes? Meat lovers must try the meltingly tender Chianina steak, full of flavour and best served rare.
Learn a skill
Improve your Italian, brush up your painting skills, or learn how to cook delicious Tuscan dishes from those who know best.
Where to stay?
If Tuscany is on your list this year, then why not choose Cignella. Perfectly situated to enjoy all that Tuscany has to offer and nestled in the hillside, the Cignella Estate enjoys incredible views across the Tuscan landscape. The spacious and airy villas and apartments have lovingly been renovated from their former use as a traditional Tuscan farm to offer modern and extremely comfortable accommodation. With quality appliances, ample lounge and dining areas plus an outside terrace there is plenty of space to relax, play and enjoy meals. Locally sourced paintings, furniture and soft furnishings keep the style authentically Tuscan and welcoming.
Time to simply relax is a part of any holiday. Cignella’s grounds include a private pool, with shallow area for children. Or book an in-room treatment, such as a massage or pedicure.
Italians are proud of their reputation for outstanding hospitality and the staff at Cignella are no exception! As a small independent resort, they are happy to help you before you arrive and during you stay. Knowing the region well, staff can offer local advice and book activities and tours to ensure your stay is perfect in every way.
With so many reasons to choose Cignella this year there is no reason to stay anywhere else. Enjoy a Tuscan treat with us and create memories to last a lifetime!
With predictions that summer 2017 will be a scorcher in the UK cat parents need to be clued up on how to manage high temperatures. Katrin Scholz, Head Nutritionist at AniForte, has some toptips on how to best look after your cat this summer:
Hydration
Cats are actually descended from desert dwelling animals and so are reasonably well equipped for the heat compared to the struggles that dogs can face. However they are not invincible! To maintain levels of hydration is highly important. This may sound obvious but for cat owners who don’t have a cat flap, pets can be shut out of the house for long periods of time and will need to source water by themselves. The water doesn’t have to necessarily be totally fresh but there should be a choice of places for the cat to be able to drink from, for example a pond or watering can.
Food
The choice of food is also important in maintaining cat’s hydration. Fresh food with a high meat content provides much better hydration than dry food and so is particularly good to use during the summer months. The AniForte PureNature range is perfect for providing good hydration with natural, fresh ingredients.
Cover
Ensure that you provide adequate shade and cover in your garden to allow cats to stay out of the sun and cool down. They particularly enjoy the shade provided by plants, by stretching out over a moist bed of soil they can cool down quickly! Although always keep an eye on the kinds of plants they are favouring, often they will choose to chew on leaves, some of which can be poisonous to cats!
Grooming
You may notice that your pet cat appears to be cleaning more regularly than usual, this is to keep fur moist which helps them to cool down. We can also aid them in cooling down by grooming them thoroughly. Lots of fur is shed as the weather warms, particularly in cats with thicker coats. By regularly brushing their coats, we can ensure that they are not carrying any unnecessary fur around with them. Furthermore, in areas that cats grow little or no fur, sun tan lotion can be applied to protect the areas from the sun’s rays. Places such as the ears and nose can benefit from protection, although be careful to only use creams free of preservatives and scents as the cat will likely lick the cream off whilst washing itself.
Ice
Just like we humans, cats can benefit greatly from using ice in the peak summer months. Drop a few ice cubes into their water bowl before you leave the house to top up the levels of water in your absence whilst also cooling the water. Alternatively, part fill a water bottle and leave it in the freezer until frozen. Wrap the bottle in a towel and leave it where your cat most enjoys laying down – they will appreciate it!
Cats are independent animals for the most part and so signs that the heat is taking its toll can sometimes be hard to spot! It is worth keeping a close eye on them during the hottest days, if you are particularly worried – consider only letting them out of the house during the cooler hours of the day, rather than underneath the midday sunshine!
Taking place tomorrow (23rd July) premium cycle clothing retailer and dedicated cycling club Rapha is uniting women across the globe with the Rapha Women’s 100 ride. The ride will see thousands of women come together to cycle 100km on the same day.
This exciting event celebrates the spirt of the global cycling community, uniting women through their love of riding. To celebrate we’ve put together 5 IDEAL reasons to join a cycling club.
Friendship
They say that we choose our friends because of mutual interests. If you’re into cycling and join a club, chances are you’ll make lots of new friends. Also say goodbye to riding solo or having to beg your old friends to come on a ride with you.
Get motivated
Even if you love cycling, sometimes you just can’t be bothered to get on your bike. However, commit to an event hosted by your cycling club and you’ll be more likely to go out on a ride. You’ll probably push yourself harder too which means your get fitter faster.
It’s Sociable
From weekly rides to monthly socials, joining a cycling club is great for your social life. Those cafe stops are great fun too.
Discover new places
Fed up of riding the same roads all the time? Join a club and you’ll find out about a whole load of new routes from your new cycling buddies – all with fantastic scenery no doubt.
Discounts and perks
There are loads of perks to joining a cycling club. For example official members of British Cycling can get 10% off everything in store at Halfords. Also, members of Rapha can enjoy priority access to annual sales and select new products at Rapha stores.
P. S In support of the event, Rapha has also released a new collection, comprising of a specially designed Women’s 100 core jersey, bra, cap and socks. Check it out here
Decked with beautiful palm fringed coastlines and exotic beaches where tranquility and serenity pervades, Goa is a beautiful place. Attracted by an alternative life and the spiritual atmosphere of India, Goa was a favourite for the hippy community in the 60s- also cheap living and hashish were a major draw. Today, Goa is known as the beach state of India and still stands out as a top rated destination for hippies and well-heeled travelers alike. Here’s our it’s pick of the best beaches:
Baga Beach
With beach parties and a great nightlife scene, Baga is the most visited Goan beach of all. There are a good number of food shacks and cafes set up in a row along the beach serving up fantastic seafood. Wind surfing, dolphin cruises and water sports also really popular here. While the beach is a major attraction, Baga is best known as the nightlife district of Goa and is home to loads of nightclubs and bars. A must-visit is Titos – this iconic club was one of the first to open in the area an Goan institution.
Agonda Beach
If you want to spend some quiet tranquil hours on a less crowded Goan beach, Agonda is a good option. With a lovely and long prestine stretch of beach, it remains one of Goa’s most unspoilt attractions. This place is popular with yogis who flock to the Yoga resorts here to meditate and take their yoga practices to next level.
Mandrem Beach
This is another sun-kissed and secluded Goan beach. Ideal for those who prefer solitude and privacy, Mandrem is a serene beach with white sand and clear water. Make sure you visit the beach at high-tide, when the sea water rushes into the Mandrem Creek – it’s a thing of beauty.
Calangute Beach
Calangute beach is another popular Goan beach draw. Being the largest beach in North Goa, it’s known as the ‘Queen of Beaches’. Calangute is great for those who love to shop. Make sure you pick up some handmade trinkets, made in Kashmir, Tibet, Indonesia and Rajasthan on your visit. For seafood lovers , this is the place. There are loads of seafood shacks -try some fried prawns paired with chilled beer – it’s an awesome combination.
Anjuna Beach
Anjuna is another mesmerizing beach that perfectly portrays the mid-1960s culture of Goa. This Hippy beach, amid the rave music and full-moon night dances will rob your heart if you are a party lover. Every Wednesday shopaholics can splurge at the beach’s Flea Market.
Palolem Beach
This unique beach with a verdant crescent-shaped coastline, bordered with cliffs and sky-kissing coconut palms is beautiful. Make sure you have at least a glass or two of Fenni, a unique Goan liqour made from the fruit surrounding the cashew nut – Palolem beach is famous for it.
Miramar Beach
Like bird watching? Then this is the beach for you. If you visit the beach between November-March, you’ll see countless migratory birds such as Gulls and Plovers. Another attraction of the beach is a long walk along the shore on a moonlit night when the light from the moon illuminates the silvery sand – it’s a stunning sight.
So now you know which the best beaches of Goa are, pack your bags and set out for an amazing Goa trip.Check Goa Tours India tour packages at.
Each year, millions of holidaymakers flock to the sandy shores of the Caribbean to experience a week or two of pure bliss. Pink tinged soft sands, colourful coral reefs, free-flowing rum and some of the most luxurious hotels in the Americas are just a few reasons why this tropical region is considered, by some, to be paradise.
We sat down with the online travel agents, Destination2.co.uk, to discover five of the most beautiful Caribbean destinations to visit.
Cuba
The Caribbean’s largest island of Cuba is the perfect combination of beautiful beaches, cobbled streets and incredible wildlife. Discover the fascinating city of Havana, with its 1950s American cars and peeling Spanish-style buildings. Old Havana is a UNESCO-protected site, with its 500 year old plazas, churches and winding streets just waiting to be explored.
Beach bums will love the pristine Cuban coastline, with its soft white sands and turquoise waters. Don your snorkel and discover a world beneath the waves, taking in the many colours of the coral and fascinating sealife here.
For a touch of luxury, travel two hours east of Havana to Varadero. Here you’ll find a selection of magnificent five star Cuba hotels, as well as some unique touches to the local area. Think candlelit cave restaurants and a House of Rum.
St Lucia
Be inspired by the mesmerising natural beauty of one of the Caribbean’s greenest islands. St Lucia combines luscious rainforests with pristine sandy beaches and colourful waterfalls, so it’s a wonderful choice for holidaymakers looking for a beachy adventure.
Head to the northern tip of the island and you’ll discover the delights of Smugglers Cove. Here you’ll experience peaceful island life on one of the best snorkeling beaches in the Caribbean. It’s located right next to Rodney Bay, a bustling marina that’s full of upmarket eateries and relaxed bars.
Adventure-seekers should head over to Soufriere, a sleepy fishing village that has a mountain backdrop and a wealth of activities. Experience some of the best views of the island, before trying your hand at ziplining, jungle biking and catamaran sailing.
Cancun
Mexico’s party capital is so much more than just Spring Break. Located on the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, what was once a small fishing town has developed into an enormous resort that’s an explosion of culture, nightlife, markets and history.
Cancun is essentially split into two parts. There’s the more traditional downtown area that has lots of cantinas and bustling marketplaces. Then there’s the hedonistic hotel zone, with its miles of white sand, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Whatever type of Mexican holiday you dream of, you’re bound to experience it in Cancun.
To discover the ruins of an ancient civilisation, head out on a day trip to Tulum. This humbling place is perched above 40-foot cliffs, and features the famous El Castillo – a striking ruin of a Mexican pyramid, one of many that stood tall over the country thousands of years ago.
If you’re looking for an adventure, then why not visit Isla Mujeres? An island not far from mainland Mexico, the beaches are beautiful and there’s always something new going on in this exciting city. Charter a private catamaran from Cancun for added elegance; though a ferry leaves from Puerto Juarez (ten minutes from Cancun) regularly and takes around 30 minutes, it does get very crowded.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is one of the most diverse and exciting countries in the Caribbean. Located on the island of Hispaniola, this country boasts those typically Caribbean white beaches, turquoise lagoons and colourful waterfalls. It’s the most visited destination in the West Indies, and is a wonderful choice for those looking to experience the perfect blend of luxury and a laid-back island lifestyle.
Scuba dive in the tropical waters that surround the island, and experience life beneath the surface. Travel to Samana Bay and observe humpback whales in their natural habitat, or visit the place that the locals say have the prettiest beaches in the country – La Romana.
Adventure-seekers will love taking a cable car up to Mount Isabel del Torres, where you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the island. Culture vultures will be right at home in Puerto Plata, the ninth largest city in the country, where you can explore the Old Town and, if you visit at the right time of year, catch a carnival.
Barbados
Last but by no means least on our list is the tropical island of Barbados. Tucked away from the main hurricane belt in the southeastern most point of the lesser Antilles, Barbados is known across the globe for its pink-tinged beaches, luscious gardens and friendly locals.
Relax on the island’s golden coastline, catch the surf at Bottom Bay or chill out with a rum in the nation’s capital, Bridgetown. Bridgetown features a UNESCO World Heritage site, Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison. Here you can learn the history of one of the Caribbean’s earliest established towns, and take in some of the fascinating colonial architecture.
Explore Harrison’s Cave, a natural limestone cavern close to Bridgetown, which features streams, pools, stalagmites and stalactites – a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours for adventure-seekers.
The UK isn’t renowned for its brilliant summer weather; we’re used to rain in the middle of July, and it’s a huge treat when the sun comes out on a weekend. Naturally when it does, we usually flock to seaside towns like Brighton to make the most of the weather. However, if you don’t fancy facing that hot and crowded train to the beach, we’ve found the perfect destination.
To embrace the outdoors and revel in the summer sun without the crowds, there is no better place than the Lake District. Full of breath-taking, natural beauty and stunning surroundings, the Lake District should be your go-to when the sun comes out. Whether you want to relax, or do something a little more active, the area has something for everyone. Here’s our roundup of ideal places to visit in the Lake District this summer.
Lake District National Park
The Lake District is actually home to England’s largest National Park, England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike and England’s largest natural lake, Windermere. It has recently been named as a World Heritage Site, joining the likes of the Grand Canyon and the Taj Mahal in its status.
Filled with communities in traditional towns like Keswick, the Lake District National Park covers 2362 square kilometres. The Park is open all the time, with no gates or barriers; you’re free to visit throughout the year, making it perfect for a quick sunny getaway!
Its scenery has inspired writers, poets and artists over the years including Beatrix Potter, William Wordsworth who wrote the quintessential Lake District poem ‘Daffodils’ and Alfred Wainwright who wrote several guidebooks on the area.
Explore the Northern Lakes
The Lake District is so big, it would be impossible to try and see it all in one weekend. However, the northern area is home to multiple attractions that are all perfect to explore in the nice weather.
Different to the usual destinations of Windermere or Ambleside, this area is home to some of the most peaceful lakes. Crummock Water is two and a half miles long and is owned by the National Trust. You can take a nine mile walk around the lake, following paths through the woods. Likewise, Loweswater is a stunning lake located in a peaceful wooded valley. Spot red squirrels on a four mile walk around the lake, or simply stop by for a drink or bite to eat.
Discover Derwentwater
A Lake District break wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Keswick and its local lake, Derwentwater. Situated perfectly between the Cat Bells fells, Friar’s Crag and the Borrowdale valley, Derwentwater is surrounded by villages and towns to explore. Keswick is an incredibly popular destination for the summer, offering boutique shops, cafes and the well-known Theatre by the Lake.
Whether you’re travelling with your other half, or the whole family is in tow, there are many different activities to get involved in. From activity centres to sites of historical importance, you can enjoy the sunshine in whichever way suits you best. Of course, you can also get on the lake itself and hire a boat for the afternoon too.
Sally Curson, founder of beauty brand Face Matters shares her top ten reasons to visit a spa
Looking for a reason to visit a spa? Whether to Detox, de-stress, pamper yourself ore reconnect with a loved one, Here are some of the best reasons to go to a spa.
RELAX
Obvious I know but for a lot of us easier said than done but a healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body.
TRY A NEW TREATMENT
If you’re a facial girl then try a massage, if you always go for nails then try a facial etc. Sometimes it’s also possible to swop 2 or 3 mini treatments for one longer pamper session. You might just get hooked on something good for you that you wouldn’t try in a local salon.
TRY A NEW EXERCISE
If you’re a gym bunny why not try some yoga or pilates; something totally different to your usual exercise routine while you have the time.
EASY DETOX
With all the peeling, chopping and blending done for you then it’s the ideal time to try a detox with none of the effort!
RECONNECT WITH A LOVED ONE
If you choose to share a spa break with a partner or friend then it’s the perfect opportunity to spend absolute quality time together, talking, and reconnecting wave lengths that are so easily lost day to day.
SWITCH OFF THE DEVICES
Go on I dare you! Scary but it can be done. And it’s oh so liberating. A few days without checking emails and social media is a complete mental clear out.
MAKE TIME FOR SOME POSITIVE THINKING
I’m a firm believer in thinking positive gets positive results. Absolute luxury to have the time to think of all the incredible things you are going to make real – with no distractions.
RECONNECT WITH YOURSELF
Grab the opportunity to relax in the most comfortable surroundings, think of all the good things in your life and what a jolly nice person you really are! And obviously how you deserve to have spa breaks more often!
OPPORTUNITY TO RE-EVALUATE LIFE
A Spa escape can give you a few days to remind yourself of the important things to you, your family and friends. Think gratitude and don’t sweat the small stuff any more.
READ A BOOK
A real one. With that lovely new book smell and pages that you actually turn. Something that will make you laugh, not have to use any brain power and just revel in the luxury of a white fluffy robe, a dip in the pool and what colour your next smoothie will be!
Could there be anything better than fish so fresh that it still smells of the sea? Yes, as a matter of fact there is – to enjoy that fish on the beach, with nothing but the lick of flames to cook it and the only soundtrack being the waves lapping the shore. Looking for the perfect place for this vision of paradise? We’ve found it.
Idea
The Red Rum restaurant is one of three at the newly opened JW Marriott Resort on Phu Quoc Island, at the very south of Vietnam. Billing itself as a beachside grill, the idea behind Red Rum is to use the freshest available local produce and cook it with the respect it deserves. When ‘local’ is the ocean, seafood takes centre stage. The island is also famous for premium, exquisite fish sauce and black, red and green pepper – meaning these beautiful ingredients are also represented proudly.
Location
The JW Marriott is on the southern tip of the Phu Quoc, which is a short plane journey from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The restaurant itself overlooks Bai Khem which is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. With pristine sand, swaying palm trees and crystal clear waters only yards away, the location of Red Rum is more than idyllic.
Atmosphere
Lowly lit in the evening and with a really natural feel, this pavillion-esque restaurant is tastefully decorated to highlight the wider environment of sea and sand, as well as allowing the focus to fall on the amazing food. Go in the day for laidback dining and stunning views of the surrounding nature, or at night for a more intimate affair. Or you could do both! Local seafood that’s grilled to perfection and served beachsideis worth it any time of day.
Food
A short menu of real clarity is so welcome in a hotel restaurant, where sometimes choice can be overwhelming and wide range of cuisines and styles worrying. There are 5 or 6 fish dishes and the same amount of meat, with a barbeque doing most of the leg work, imparting smoky notes and an authentic ‘beach bar’ feel. Sides and dipping sauces are kept simple and serve to complement the fresh produce beautifully. The menu is dependent on the local fishermen’s catches of the day – emphasizing just how fresh and delicious everything is.
On our visit, local spiny lobster and beautiful red snapper were the headlining acts, along with baby squid which the surrounding waters is famous for. All were superb – so fresh, light and cooked to perfection with the reverence they deserved. The lovely, smiley and downright convivial Chef Matt offered to curate and we duly obliged – we weren’t disappointed and we’d highly recommend putting your trust in his more than capable hands if given the chance.
Drink
A strong wine list, with classics rubbing shoulders with new world wines with more tropical notes, there really is something for everyone. Local beers and a host of fruity, vibrant cocktails complete the bill.
Must-try
Put your trust in the hands of the chef and the produce, as we did, and you will be rewarded. The ‘fish platter’ was a bountiful selection of the day’s fishing rewards, and went paired harmoniously with the local dipping sauces, all zing, verve and freshness.
Why Go
Without doubt, this is our favourite type of meal, our idea of utter food heaven – freshly caught, beautiful fish cooked over flames with simplicity and clarity. Throw in some locally inspired sauces and dressings, made from the amazing fish sauce and pepper that the island is so famous for, and you have a culinary dream destination.
