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HOTEL REVIEW: URBAN HOUSE, COPENHAGEN – AN IDEAL PLACE FOR GREAT VALUE IN A HIP AREA

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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HOTEL REVIEW: URBAN HOUSE, COPENHAGEN – AN IDEAL PLACE FOR GREAT VALUE IN A HIP AREA

Here at IDEAL, it’s no secret that we love fancy hotels – if we could, we’d live in one. However,  if you have limited holiday funds, staying at an expensive place isn’t always realistic – they are real budget killers after all.

Fundamentally all you need from a hotel is a bed and a shower, so during a recent trip to Copenhagen, we decided to find somewhere that was good value for money so we could spend all our money at Noma. Enter Urban House – a hybridized hotel/hostel which ended up being so much more than a reasonably priced place to rest your head. 

Idea

This hotel is designed for ‘The Enlightened Traveler’. In other words, those who demand the upleveled amenities and cleanliness of a hotel, but with the heart and affordability of a hostel. For us this it was the ideal urban rest-stop.  Read on for our full review…

Location

Urban House is located in the trendy area of Vesterbro, right by the train station. Like London’s Shoreditch and New York’s Williamsburg, Vesterbro heeds the hipster call and is actually number 4 on Thrillist’s top 10 most hipster neighbourhoods on Earth. Brimming with quirky cafes, restaurants and bars ,you’ll probably end up spending most of your time in this trendy district so Urban House is in the ideal location. 

Atmosphere & Decor

Urban House and it’s persona fits in with the neighbourhood’s hipster vibe perfectly. It’s unique, trendy and cool. The hotel marries the best of the casual and fun environment that a hostel offers with the hip and cool surroundings of a modern boutique hotel.

There’s an obvious emphasis on design and decor here, but everything still looks accessible, affordable and real. There’s cool art displays and murals everywhere you look, adding a human touch to every nook and cranny. Industrial lighting throughout gives it that edgy, hipster vibe.

Offering a lively atmosphere, Urban House is set up to socialise. It has a vibrant social space on the ground floor and a courtyard garden. If you want a bit of peace and quiet, there’s even a designated quiet room.You can also enjoy local craft beer and live music at the bar. It’s even got tattoo parlour and a bicycle shop.

Clientele

Urban House is designed for the many not the few. From couples and families with kids to business travelers, you’ll see everyone on your stay here.

Service

As the hotel decrees ‘modern times ask for modern measures’. This is a self-service place meaning that you can check in by yourself, either online or at a check-in-counter at the hotel. This means no waiting in line, no frantic digging around in your bag for your passport, no signing of papers, none of it. You just get a code to your room and you’re done – easy and breezy. Be that as it may, the staff are there to help with any question or issues you might have – and they do it with smile.

Rooms

It’s a big ho(s)tel with 220 rooms and all the rooms are pretty basic. But they all come with free wifi (very important) and loads of power outlets. There are lots of different room categories with a blend of private and shared rooms. From ‘shoebox’ (the room name says it all) to ‘doubleheader’ (perfect for a couple) to big bungalows (for those travelling in a group), whatever your party size, they have it. 

Food and Drink

The food selection is pretty limited, but you’re in an area with loads of cool restaurants, cafes and bars so that doesn’t matter. If you do decide to grab a bite to eat at Urban House, go for the hot dog, they do a damn fine one here. Served between 7 and 11 am, it’s only 75 DKK for a continental breakfast which provides just the right amount of fuel for your morning. There’s also a common kitchen where you can prepare and store your own food if you’re running low on funds.  We recommend having some drinks at the bar before heading out. Copenhagen is a pricey city and compared to most places drinks here are affordable. Happy hour is from 7 to 9 pm.

Facilities

Urban House also hosts bike and running tours in the city, and yoga classes. There’s the previously mentioned communal kitchen, 24-hour laundry room and luggage lockers. Oh and there’s also a tattoo shop if you’re after some body art.

Why Go 

To experience a great value hotel/hostel hybrid in the hippest part of Copenhagen.

Address: Colbjørnsensgade 11, 1652 Copenhagen V.

Website: www.meininger-hotels.com

IDEAL stayed at the hotel as a guest

8 IDEAL TIPS TO AVOID TRAVEL SICKNESS

Rachel Stevenson
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8 IDEAL TIPS TO AVOID TRAVEL SICKNESS

Summer holiday season is a time of year that many of us look forward to the most, but for some it can also be a time of dread, as travelling on holiday can also mean uncomfortable journeys spent feeling nauseous. Motion sickness, or travel sickness, is extremely common and is thought to be caused by a conflict of information between the senses.

Simon Bandy from natural supplements company Veganicity has created some simple top tips for beating motion sickness, without resorting to medication, so holidays can get off to a good start:

Avoid alcohol

It can be tempting to kick-start your holiday with an alcoholic drink on the journey, particularly if travelling by plane or boat with access to a bar. However, alcohol can worsen symptoms of motion sickness, so stick to soft drinks until you arrive at your destination.

Eat an apple

Foods high in fibre help to remove nausea-inducing chemicals from your system. Try eating an apple or snack on raw vegetables during your journey if you get hungry.

Position Matters

While clearly not awash with choice in a car, seating position in larger modes of transport has a massive impact on whether or not sickness will strike. When travelling a long distance by coach,  it’s important to bear in mind the prime positions and book specific seats in advance. Stagecoach Buses, for instance, offer such a service.

Try easy acupressure

This ancient Chinese healing practice of pressing or massaging certain points of the body to prevent illness is thought to help prevent travel sickness. If you’re feeling nauseous on your journey, try pressing your index and middle fingers between the two tendons on the inside of your wrist, about three finger breadths below the base of your palm.

Go for ginger

Ginger is reputed to be excellent for maintaining good health and relieving nausea. Veganicity’s Ginger Tincture (£5.95) can be added to water to help settle the stomach. Because it comes in a handy, travel-friendly 50ml bottle, it can also be carried in hand luggage when flying.

Look at the horizon

Motion sickness can sometimes be avoided by focusing on the horizon or a fixed point when travelling by car or boat.

Take deep breaths

Deep breathing can create a different rhythm pattern in the stomach, which can help to settle it when feeling nauseous. Taking a few deep breaths will also help you to relax and take your mind off the sickness, like a mini meditation.

Leave your phone alone

Avoid checking your phone or tablet or reading during your journey, particularly if travelling by car. The body’s vestibular system, which senses balance from the inner ear, tells the brain that you are moving, but the senses (your sight) tell the brain you are sitting still when focused on reading or looking at a fixed object inside the car, which can add to feelings of nausea.

RESTAURANT REVIEW: THE TYPING ROOM – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR A SET LUNCH IN LONDON

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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RESTAURANT REVIEW: THE TYPING ROOM – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR A SET LUNCH IN LONDON

Lee Westcott, a relatively young chef with an impressively rich culinary heritage (Noma, Per Se, Tom Aitkens), has now headed up Bethnal Green’s Typing Room for three years. The place opened in 2014 under the guidance of the ubiquitous Jason Atherton, and continues to thrill restaurant critics and punters alike. It’s a wonder that, with this standard of cooking and elegance, Typing Room does not yet have a certain star above the door. Could this be their year?

LOCATION

Bethnal Green Town Hall used to house another heavy hitter in Nuno Mendes, but since he moved on to pastures new (Chiltern Firehouse – you may have heard of it), and now plays host to The Typing Room. There is something of hiding in plain sight about the place – we managed to walk right past it, with google maps leading us into a school where our request for the signature yeasted cauliflower was met with bemusement. The building itself is regal and stands proud with majesty, the perfect setting for the sophisticated fare provided through its doors.

ATMOSPHERE

The effortless service does justice to the lightness of touch in all aspects of the room and food. There isn’t a whiff of stuffiness – and it’s a baking hot day – as wait staff glide between tables delivering plates and platitudes. The room is busy, with an open kitchen having the theatre covered, but a sense of privacy prevails as there is ample space between diners of different parties.

FOOD

We opted for the lunch deal, an absolute snip at around the 30 pound mark for 3 courses, with additional snacks costing an extra 4. The aforementioned snacks prove a highlight – we’re still debating which was better. Crispy cod skin with oyster emulsion and leaf is saline and quite frankly, thrilling. Even better possibly, is a pig’s head croquette with smoked apple puree, the taste of wood and fire an inspired touch. IPA sourdough with a marmite butter is almost too salty, but it’s fantastic and ever so moreish. We have to reign in temptation to request more. There follows a celebration of seasonal British ingredients with Nordic flourishes abound, the hot summer’s day demanding light dishes and the restaurant very much obliging. The much celebrated yeasted cauliflower and raisins delivers intrigue and depth, whilst heritage tomatoes, courgettes and a whey sauce split with green oil is as summery as one could imagine. The delicate continues with excellent fish courses and desserts round off the meal in a cleansing, cooling fashion.

DRINK

We weren’t in the mood for wine, and the helpful, charming waiter steered us in the direction of some superb craft ales. The wine list is as interesting and varied as you’d expect from a restaurant of this poise.

WHY GO

Get in here before the star, because, in our view, it’s only a matter of time. The fare seemed so suited to the season, so apt and synergetic, that we’re determined to visit again once the London nights get a little cooler, to see if the feat can be matched with flavours of the Autumnal. Address:  Town Hall Hotel, Patriot Square, London E2 9NF, UK Website: www.typingroom.com

SPA REVIEW: LA VERANDA, PHU QUOC – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR THE BEST MASSAGE EVER

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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SPA REVIEW: LA VERANDA, PHU QUOC – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR THE BEST MASSAGE EVER

We all know the drill, at the end of every spa treatment you’re presented with a relaxing herbal tea and a form asking you to fill out your thoughts about what’s just happened. Most of us just rush through the form (the last thing you want to do after a treatment is use your brain power to evaluate something) and tick the good or excellent box without caring or really thinking. That is, unless you’ve had a really bad or a body-blowingly good experience.

It takes the perfect balance of elements to elevate your average massage into one of greatness, and Le Veranda’s simple named Le Spa ticks all the boxes perfectly. It’s so good you actually want to write in the comment section of the form to tell them so.

Welcome

A warm smile meets your arrival. The delicate smell of Lotus Flower No.3, La Veranda’s signature scent, hits you you. A crisp, refreshing welcome drink of lemongrass is served and treatment choices are presented to you. Staff are on hand to provide further detail, descriptions and recommendations – we were gently steered toward the ‘holistic’ after consultation, and boy, we were not disappointed.

Décor and Ambience 

Le Spa is all minimalist elegance and sophistication. Furnished with gentle, unobtrusive hues of turquoise and yellow, from the moment you enter, a zen-like calm seems to fall over you. This is even before the expert massage (more of that later).

Furniture forgoes excessive frippery in favour of a slicker finish, which, for us, is just right for a humid climate. 

Treatment

The list is varied without succumbing to the more far-out language often favoured by the industry. Clarity of description and helpful staff negate the fear one is usually gripped with when presented with the paradox of choice.

With wellness a watchword of the resort, and  every fine detail tailored with this in mind, we chose the holistic massage treatment. Other options include skin beautification packages, as well as more medically inclined neuromuscular treatments, but the holistic seemed apt according to the vibe of the resort.

The massage itself takes place in a room refreshingly simple in design. Low plucks of harp provide a perfect, serene soundtrack and beds are just the right side of firm. The aroma of the resort’s  artisanal organic oils smell wonderful.   Often a complaint for us, but certainly not here, the headrest was soft and giving, keeping any hint of discomfort at bay.

The main event was a lesson in skill, professionalism and serenity. No aches were left unseen to during the 90 minute session, the masseuses experts in the soft, attentive holistic approach. Constant contact was maintained and at times the movements of the professional were so graceful and elegant it felt as though we were dancing.  Genuinely, this was the finest massage we’ve experienced. A 10/10 knockout.

Why Go

Everyone deserves a bit of relaxation time occasionally, that’s why you come to Phu Quoc after all. So go the whole hog and treat yourself do one of the best massages you might ever have.

We were told a new spa is under construction and will be open in 3 to 4 months, in time for the island’s high season. If this is suggestion that the superb experience could be improved, we may well have to come back and visit!

To book (just do it) and for information visit: www.laverandaresorts.com

IDEAL Magazine’s treatment was courtesy of La Veranda

4 IDEAL HACKS TO SPRUCE UP YOUR KITCHEN

Editorial Team
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If any room in the house needs to be the image of orderliness, it’s the kitchen. From preparing food to washing dishes, everything runs more smoothly with an organised kitchen. Even if practicalities should be your priority, it doesn’t mean it can’t be accomplished without making it looking good. For the most innovative, creative and stylish hacks to spruce up your kitchen read on – you won’t want to miss out.

Chopping boards with disposal

Sometimes the simplest tasks can end up taking the longest. And chopping vegetables certainly falls under that category. Removing skins, stems and seeds can be easy enough, but painstakingly collecting the waste with your hand and carrying it across to the bin for disposal can be frustratingly time-consuming. This is where chopping boards with in-built disposal come into play. The most extreme example is a pull-out chopping board with a hole that hovers over the bin. Simply scrape undesirables into the gap and directly into the bin – easy.

Cabinet with pull out shelves

Blindly stretching out a hand to grab a bowl from the farthest corner of a cabinet can be difficult enough, but actually guiding the bowl out, without knocking any of the other china over in the process, is a more than troublesome task. That is why cabinets with pull out shelves are so important. You can pluck out a plate without worrying that you’ve actually acquired something other than the intended target, and you don’t have to fret about damaging anything else by accident.

Making a (back)splash

A well-designed backsplash can act as the focal point of a kitchen. This can be achieved in variety of cost-cutting ways. A mosaic of mismatched tiles can attract attention as well as the most expensive tiles can. The cheapest and perhaps most effective way however, is to put together a backsplash composed of kitchen wallpaper. Here is where it gets interesting. Depending on your preference, you can just easily opt for vibrant pop-art style wallpaper, as imitative sleek tiling – the choice is entirely yours.

See your kitchen in a different light

By replacing garish overhead lighting, you will be able to see your kitchen in a completely different light – literally. Recent interior design trends dictate that you would be best electing for multiple fixtures scattered in strategic positions in place of just one overbearing light. By angling lights towards the cupboards and walls of the kitchen, the light is reflected back into the room, giving the illusion of the space. Equally effective is ensuring your bulbs have a colour rendition index of over 90, culminating in a warm and cosy light.

As you can see, with some straight-forward alterations you can make your kitchen an altogether better space. With the right changes you can transform your kitchen from a place you have to spend time in, to one you want to spend time in.

4 IDEAL WAYS TO FEEL MORE ENERGECTIC

Rachel Stevenson
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4 IDEAL WAYS TO FEEL MORE ENERGECTIC

More often than we’d probably like to admit, lethargy derails our ambitions of actually accomplishing anything with our day. Being tired is as frustratingly commonplace as is it is debilitating. Everyone has different ways of coping. Some of us are reliant on an absurd amount of caffeine – anything from a latte to an energy drink (just as long as it gets the heart racing), whilst others swear by a carbohydrate-rich diet. What we can all agree on, is that we’d like to be more energetic than we already are, it doesn’t really matter how we get there. With this in mind, here are 4 ideal ways you can do just that.

Sleep

Sleep is the cornerstone on which your body is dependent for its base level of energy. And when this foundation falls through, your energy levels take a hit – with concentration, effort and judgement all falling through the floor. Research undertaken at the City University of New York revealed that sleep deprivation results in ‘objective changes in effort including reductions in the speed of task completion, work rates and the number of solutions attempted.’ It’s no surprise that it’s such a struggle to sort out that mounting pile of emails after a night of poor sleep.

To ensure that you arrive at work rejuvenated and at the peak of your powers, it is essential to prioritise getting a good night’s sleep. This means neglecting electronics for the last hour before bed – the blue light produced by phones, tablets and TV screens suppresses the production of the sleep-inducing chemical melatonin and getting your hands on a snug memory foam mattress.

Diet

As well as being the most important for maintaining energy levels, diet is also the most difficult to monitor properly. With the convenience of unhealthy foods providing a cheap and easy but short-lived energy boost, it feels trickier than ever to subscribe to an exclusively healthy way of eating. The shortcuts to day-round energy though, are altogether more accessible.

As they release glucose into the bloodstream slowly, complex carbohydrates are a source of long-lasting energy and oats, pulses, seeds, nuts and wholegrains are just a few tasty examples. Eating smaller portions more often, is designed to help you avoid the crashes that are common with a huge meal and will help to keep you energised for the whole day. We get that you can’t have a small meal all the time, sometimes your so ravenous that nothing but a plate piled up with food will do. Just think moderation. 

Hydration

Drinking more water is the simplest change you can possibly make. But just because it’s easy, it doesn’t mean it’s any less effective. Staying hydrated boosts your energy levels as well as your ability to concentrate. The NHS recommends that the ideal amount to a drink a day is somewhere in the 2-3 litres region. Of course, this amount varies depending on the climate and whether you are exercising.

Exercise

We’re all guilty of spending too little time in the gym, and a little bit too much time in front of our TV. It is all too easy to be ensnared by a Netflix series for days and even weeks at a time, leaving your exercise regime in tatters. All is not lost however. You don’t need a drastic overhaul to increase your energy levels; it only requires a few simple changes – as this University of Georgia study shows.

Researchers found that completing just 20 minutes of exercise a day, equivalent to that of a leisurely walk, can dramatically reduce feelings of fatigue. Keeping active has a holistic effect on the body, and can be credited with improvements in your psychological well-being as well as your physical health.

10 IDEAL FITNESS TIPS FOR LAZY LADIES

Rachel Stevenson
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10 IDEAL FITNESS TIPS FOR LAZY LADIES

A summer body is a goal for all of us, but not many of us reach it. Sometimes it’s not just about being too lazy to work out, but more about not being motivated, or simply not having enough time or the energy. Luckily, there are many ways you can work out effectively but save time, and there are other tips and tricks you can use to look your best on the beach without having to starve or spend countless hours in the gym. With this in mind we’ve asked Norah Martin from highstylife.com to share her top 10 fitness tips for lazy ladies..

You like to – move it!

The good side of workouts is that you absolutely need no accessories, equipment, or a special place to do them. Yes, some equipment is cool, for example those little weights for toning your arms, but you don’t need them. You can do some serious sweating while cleaning your kitchen or walking to work. The most important thing is to move, the more the better.

Use the TV

You can do some killer workouts while watching your favorite TV show if you only know how. Use the opening credits to do some jogging, recognize patterns and do a specific move whenever a cliché sentence or an expression is mentioned. It’s similar to drinking games, but way healthier. Instead of ending up blackout drunk, you’ll end up sweating and feeling good about yourself.

Use caffeine to help you

This trick works even better if you’re not a caffeine addict, but nevertheless, you can benefit from caffeine when working out even if you drink coffee regularly. Caffeine boosts your metabolism and gives you strength to work out longer than you usually would. Bear in mind that it’s not a miracle substance which will turn you into a Hulk and give you superhuman strength, though.

Drink more water

This may sound like a silly cliché, but it does wonders for your body. Start your day with a glass of warm water with a bit of lemon, drink a glass before every meal, and one before you go to bed. Also, try to drink at least five glasses of water during the day. This will help your body get rid of toxins, keep you hydrated, make your skin glow, and reduce your appetite.

Dance it off

As we mentioned before, any form of movement is actually a workout, so why not make things useful, beautiful, and interesting at the same time? Take up dancing lessons, learn some seductive and sensual moves, and tone up your body like a dancer. You will learn a new skill and lose weight at the same time – it’s a win-win situation.

Other kinds of sweets

Yes, fruit will never ever replace chocolate-chip raspberry ice cream, but it can get pretty close to it nevertheless. Try making homemade popsicles with fruit and mint leaves – a dessert to cool you down and boost your metabolism, and it has zero calories.

Eat differently

You know it has to come to this at one point or another – you will have to change your diet if you want good results. The changes don’t have to be drastic: swap regular pizza for a vegetarian homemade one, eat homemade ice cream instead of the one bought in stores, add supplements to your diet to make sure you’re taking in all the necessary vitamins and proteins. This ultimate supplement guide will help you see what you’ve been lacking and how to make it up quickly.

Engage body & mind

The best way to clear your mind, prepare for the stressful day ahead of you, and tone up your body is to take up yoga. It calms you down, and gives you both mental and physical strength for everyday challenges.

Leave the car

Walk and cycle everywhere – it will change your body for the better in no time. By walking everywhere you will save tons of money you would have spent on gas, and get wonderfully toned legs instead. If you can’t give up your car completely, try parking further than you usually would and walk a few blocks more.

You don’t have to leave the bed

For all the truly lazy ones out there, this is the proof that you can work out while still in bed. Do some peddlers, side kicks, leg twists, and whatnot when you don’t feel like getting up, but still feel too guilty to completely skip the exercise. No excuses!

The biggest step you are going to take is finding motivation to keep you going after the initial enthusiasm wears off. It is not easy, maybe it will be raining, or you’ll have a headache, or you are going to feel unmotivated after eating a bit too much ice cream. No worries, mistakes and little slips are all part of the process, and the most important thing is to keep going. Your amazing body will emerge and you will be happy you didn’t quit.

8 IDEAL TIPS FOR BETTER MEDITATION

Rachel Stevenson
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8 IDEAL TIPS FOR BETTER MEDITATION

Meditation is an intensely personal and, for some people, private experience. It is a complete and total relaxation technique and some may need unique circumstances to help bring upon that level of rest.

For most people, however, there are basic guidelines to follow to get the most out of your meditation sessions. Here is a helpful list you can follow the next time you have a meditation session.

One

Meditation is inexorably tied to your body. If you don’t feel confident and happy with the current state of your body, you will have a very hard time relaxing properly. This applies to all aspects of your body. If you are planning on meditating later that day, try to eat extra healthy that day so when you go to meditate, you know that you’ve made healthy choices that day.

If you feel much better about your body after a shower or bath, take one before you go to meditate. Try not to eat right before you meditate, but you can eat right earlier in the day. If you feel better after stretching, do that before you meditate. Any easy to implement practice that helps put you more at ease and in a relaxing frame of mind is a good idea before you meditate.

Two

Just as you should prepare your body for meditation, you should also prepare your mind. You should look forward to meditation, so that when the time comes, you’re ready for it and in the right frame of mind. Try to lock yourself away the best you can. If you can’t get away from a phone or guests, try turning your phone off and going in another room away from people.

Three

If you have a nagging chore you need to do, finish it before you even consider meditating. You must have as clear of a mind as possible before you even consider sitting down to meditate.

Four

One of the ways that many people chose to set their mind at ease is with music. Music can be the best mood setter out there, so if you need a little extra help finding the right mood for your meditation, put on a favorite song or a song that you feel is empowering or makes you feel self confident. Get lost in the words or the beat and use it to help slide yourself into a meditative state. There is nothing wrong with using a bit of help if you need it and music is one of the best sources for that.

Five

You should make sure that your posture is good during meditation. While that may sound a bit odd, you need to make sure your back is straight and your legs crossed. If you can make it into a lotus position or the half lotus position, you’ll be in great shape. A straight back and proper posture will help your body achieve a deeper and more meaningful state of meditation.·

Six

Follow the experts. People have been refining the art of meditation for millennia and your meditation instructor has likely learned from experts and passed that knowledge on to you. While a small amount of freelancing is fine, you should stick with the original lesson as much as possible. The methods taught are like that for a reason and they have been proven to achieve the highest levels of meditative bliss. While it may be tempting to do your own thing, you should place your trust in your teacher and use the examples he or she taught you.

Seven

Meditation is habit forming. If you begin meditation and you’re serious about making it part of your life, it will be most beneficial to you if you make it a regular part of your life. You won’t experience the true benefit if you only do it once in a while. Practice does in fact make perfect in this instance and the more regular your meditation sessions are, the more you’ll enjoy it and the better you’ll feel.

Eight

Patience is key. By introducing meditation into your life, you’ve taken a single step along a path ofenlightenment and inner peace. It is a long journey, however. If you don’t feel like you’re getting the results you’re after once a week or a month has passed, be patient. There are people who spend a lifetime meditating who only reach what they are looking for after decades of practice. Stick with it and you’re sure to achieve your goal.

Meditation is a beautiful and wonderful practice that millions of people take part in every day around the world. It does, however, take years of meditation to truly see results and while that can be frustrating to some people, it is those with the foresight to stick with it that are rewarded in the end.

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AN IDEAL GUIDE TO 10 DIFFERENT TYPES OF WINE

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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AN IDEAL GUIDE TO 10 DIFFERENT TYPES OF WINE

 

Are you a wine newbie looking to understand more about wine? Look no further. Our friends from Californian wine brand, Echo Falls gives us the lowdown on 10 wines from their portfolio.

Merlot

If there was a wine that could match up to your favourite cuddly jumper, Merlot would be it. So when you’re at the peek of comfort, grab a glass and fill it with its perfect partner, Merlot. Just don’t spill any… it’s a pain to get out!

Shiraz

Whether it’s dinner with friends or a cosy night with that special somewhere, this Shiraz is the perfect chaperone. Spicy (not the kind of curry spice, more of a subtle hint of pepper, maybe even a whiff of clove… its nice trust us!) and packed with blackberry flavours.

Cabernet Sauvignon

This bottle may not be the tallest, but it’s definitely dark and oh so handsome. Charming spiced aromas combine with bold blackcurrant flavours to give you a smooth tasting wine that you’d be proud to take home to your parents.

Chardonnay

The elegant classic, Chardonnay! The “I’m so famous that there are children named after me” wine. The wine that has a perfect mix of tropical fruit and spicy oak flavours that had the country in a frenzy longer than it takes to find the perfect LBD.

Chardonnay Pinot Grigio

When you have two great things you can sometimes put them together to make something amazing! Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio are great on their own, but they also work perfectly hand in hand. Much like how this bottle goes perfectly hand in hand with you… go on, pour yourself a glass.

Pinot Grigio

The fresh apple, pear and peach flavours will dance across your tongue, flirting with each and every taste bud along the way.  Not literally of course- but if it was actually dancing we think it would dance the jive, a lively drink with exciting flavours!

Sauvignon Blanc

Don’t you love it when you find a wine that just goes with everything! Your favourite meal, that film you’ve been dying to see, or just your “getting ready” soundtrack. Well. You’ve found it, congratulations! Now all you need to do is enjoy.

White Zinfandel

If you were looking for a beautifully sweet drink with lively flavours then you’ve picked the right bottle. Packed with everything from the fun side of California, sweet flavours of strawberries, peachy aromas and all the celebrity juice you can handle. Okay, it doesn’t have the juice but you can read about that whilst you have a glass.

White Grenache

We know what you’re thinking, “why is this wine called White when it’s clearly a Rosé!” That’s a job for Google. All we know is it’s packed with strawberry and raspberry flavours with an amazing flowery smell. The sweet pink blush is just an added bonus – enjoy!

Pinot Grigio Rosé

Have you ever wondered how wine smells and tastes of different things? And none of them grapes! This one tastes and smells of bright plush strawberry with a smidge of raspberry. It doesn’t make sense why it tastes like that, it’s just one of life’s beautiful mysteries!

 

10 IDEAL WAYS TO MAKE YOUR COMMUTE MORE BEARABLE THIS SUMMER

Rachel Stevenson
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10 IDEAL WAYS TO MAKE YOUR COMMUTE MORE BEARABLE THIS SUMMER

Let’s play a game word association. If we say the word ‘commute’ what to you think of? Bad breath? Sweaty armpits? Personal space invaders? Are we right? Thought so. Commuting at any time of the year is hellish. However, being squished together like sardines on a summers day is even more unbearable than most times of the year. It’s hot, sweaty and even more smelly than usual. To make your commute a little less horrible and a little more bearable, we’ve teamed up with Odaban to give you 10 top tips on ways to make your commute more bearable this summer!

One

Wear natural fabrics that breath easily such as linen, cotton etc. to avoid unnecessary sweating and avoid synthetics as they trap heat

Two

Wear open toe shoes if possible, as we lose huge amounts of heat through our feet it’s a good way of helping our body to stay cooler. Feet also swell in the heat so open toe shoes will help them to stay comfortable as well

Three

Use an amazingly effective antiperspirant in problem areas of the body to avoid odour and embarrassing stains

Four

Avoid spicy foods as they can make you sweat more and exacerbate odour

Five

Wear thin layers so you can easily remove them as and when needed

Six

Drink chrysanthemum tea, Practitioners say chrysanthemum is a cooling herb which clears the head

Seven

Avoid caffeine and alcohol these can make you sweat more

Eight

The night before you go out for the day in the sun, roll some damp flannels up and pop them in the freezer. Take them with you in a plastic bag. Then, when you start to feel hot, unwrap them and place them over your face.

Nine

Always carry around a bottle of water with you, it’s important to stay hydrated in the heat especially on the tube.

Ten

Take off your tie. Removing formal neckwear can lower body temperature by between 2C and 3C

10 IDEAL TIPS FOR AN OUTDOOR SUMMER WEDDING

Rachel Stevenson
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10 IDEAL TIPS FOR AN OUTDOOR SUMMER WEDDING

Are you having an outdoor summer wedding? Then you’re probably imagining the most perfect day where the sun is shining, the breeze is gently blowing and your guests are sipping on champagne, having the time of their lives and commenting on how this is the most beautiful wedding they’ve ever seen. But what you’re not thinking about is Mother Nature having her wicked way and those same guests getting cold from a sudden summer shower or the cake melting from the heat and your dress sticking to your back.

As gorgeous as an outdoor wedding can be, there’s also a significant amount of legwork that has to be done to make sure your alfresco celebration goes off without a hitch. But worry not! We have the tips that you need to know from Melanie, a wedding expert from Cranberry Blue Weddings & Events, on how to ensure your outdoor do is not a miss, but full of wedding bliss!

Pick the perfect venue

There are so many venues available so consider what’s most important to you and make a short list of ones to visit.  Ask lots of questions – do they have the option for a legal outside ceremony for example, is there space for a marquee, what time can everything go on until, are fireworks allowed etc., you want to ensure that all of the plus points of having a summer wedding are covered.

Choose your marquee

Think about the style of reception you’d like to have and then what type of marquee to choose as this will provide the backdrop to your day.  You could choose from a contemporary frame marquee, traditional pole marquee or tipis for example, all of which give a very different look.

Have a backup plan

If you’re getting married in the UK we all know how unpredictable the British weather can be, so while you may have found your perfect venue with oodles of outside space, and envisage the majority of the day being held outside it’s vital to have a backup plan.  If you’re planning to have your ceremony in the open air then a stretch marquee structure will provide enough cover if there’s only light rain but you also need a really good alternative inside in case the weather is really bad.

Make sure everyone can be heard

For an open air ceremony then something people often forget is making sure everyone can hear what’s being said as it’s surprising how hard it can be for sound to travel.  You can hire the necessary PA systems and microphones inexpensively but it’s certainly worth it so your guests are fully involved in the most important part of the day.

Create the design concept

Think about colour, detail and the décor of your day – how can you make it personal to you.  Summer is one of the best times of the year for flowers so choose seasonal blooms and inject some colour into the day.  If you’re having a marquee then you have a wonderfully blank canvas to do whatever you like, and you can use the structure and height to hang décor from the ceiling and create real impact to the space.

Get the temperature right

Although you will be keeping everything crossed for a beautifully sunny day, you don’t want your guests to be melting in the sun.  Ensure you have a good air conditioning system in the marquee, offer guests fans for the ceremony which can also act as a wedding favour and it’s always nice to serve your guests a cold non-alcoholic drink before the ceremony too.  If it’s not quite as warm as you were hoping though then consider providing pashminas for your female guests which they can also use as it gets chilly in the evenings.

Serve the ideal drinks

Choose summery drinks for your reception and ensure you offer a variety of non-alcoholic options in the heat such as virgin cocktails, old fashioned lemonade, cordials and of course water.  Mojitos, a classic Pimms or the current trend for iced-tea cocktails will all help to keep your guests cool.  Don’t forget the ice either but rather than plain ice cubes, what about adding edible flowers to make your drinks look more attractive.

Be creative with food

Make the most of the (hopefully) warm evenings and think about having food trucks serving great alternatives to an old fashioned buffet later into the party.  These come in the form of shiny vintage Airstreams or retro vans so guests can have a more interactive experience outside.  Mexican burritos, hamburgers, creperie stands, mini posh pies or tacos are just some examples or fun and popular options that are sure to go down well with your guests after a few drinks.

Keep your guests entertained

To avoid the reception dragging you want to have some great entertainment for both adults and children.  There is a vast array of options available but strolling musicians and acts such as caricaturists or close-up magicians who can mingle amongst you and your guests on the lawns work well and can move indoors easily should it rain. A great alternative to the ever popular photo booth is to have one that’s inside a London black taxi and is sure to go down well with guests.

Check the details

It’s easy to get carried away with the all the fun stuff but it’s vital to check the less exciting aspects during the planning process such as access to the venue for suppliers, is there sufficient parking, is the ground level enough for a marquee, do you need to hire toilets and a generator for power, does your chosen venue have a licence to conduct ceremonies outside etc.?

THE IDEAL FESTIVAL CHECKLIST FROM FULTON UMBRELLAS

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL FESTIVAL CHECKLIST FROM FULTON UMBRELLAS

It’s official: festival season is in full swing! Whether you’re chilling out at a local festival or heading to some of the big players like Glastonbury or V, packing is essential. If you like to leave things to the last minute, don’t fear! Fulton Umbrellas has created this handy festival checklist; pack your backpack full of these and we guarantee you’ll be set whatever the weather!

Festival Checklist: What To Take To A Festival

  • Dry shampoo — you might be in the middle of a field, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have great hair!
  • Sunhat — the British weather is interchangeable, so pack a hat for when the sun’s out to avoid sunstroke.
  • Umbrellas — rain is synonymous with festivals. Don’t forget your brolly — check out our designer range for one that will stand out from the crowd.
  • Wellies — an obvious one, but essential none the less!
  • Waterproof jacket — keep dry and pack a waterproof jacket for when the heaven’s open.
  • Reusable water bottle — festivals usually provide water stations, so you can dodge those high prices and fill up for free.
  • Torch — finding your way back to the tent can be difficult; a torch will help.
  • Tent & sleeping equipment—pop-up tents are great for taking the hassle out of pitching. You’ll also need an airbed or roll mat, sleeping bag and pillows.
  • Sun lotion — make protecting your skin a priority and pack an SPF.
  • ID — festivals are tough on under-age drinking, so prove your old enough and take along your ID.
  • Toilet roll—don’t rely on those portable toilets
  • Wet wipes — perfect for freshening up after a day of dancing.
  • Phone charger — how else are you going to share all those photos if your battery dies? Most festivals provide charging points.
  • Towel — if the heavens open during the last act of the day, a towel will help you dry off before bed.
  • Camping chairs — more comfortable than grass, pack some if you’re camping at a festival.
  • Earplugs — noisy neighbours be gone!
  • Sunglasses — a festival must-have that makes it easier for you to catch all of the on-stage action.
  • Bin bags — throw a couple of bin bags in your backpack to collect your rubbish during and after your festival fun.

With the essentials in place, you’re all set for having the time of your life, whatever festival you attend! If you’re after some more great tips, festival veteran Edith Bowman has shared her top tips for enjoying the best of British music festivals.

10 IDEAL TIME HACKS IF YOU’RE ‘TOO BUSY’ TO EXERCISE

Rachel Stevenson
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10 IDEAL TIME HACKS IF YOU’RE ‘TOO BUSY’ TO EXERCISE

Do you feel like you’re constantly juggling your time between commuting, working, catching up with friends and struggle to add exercise into the mix? If you don’t already have a time slot set out to keep fit, it can seem impossible to exercise but here are some top tips to up your fitness, even with the busiest of schedules!

Try High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

HIIT is most effective training method for burning fat, and can be done in less in 20 minutes. HIIT involves short bursts of maximal effort with rest periods in between, i.e. 20 seconds of star jumps followed by 40 seconds of rest. This is repeated for 20 minutes, using any type of exercise. With no gym required, you can practice HITT anywhere and you’ll be burning fat for up to 18 hours afterwards

Use your feet before the wheels

Rather than jumping in the car to your local shop or work meeting, why not leave that bit earlier and take a stroll? It can be a great way to relax and clear your mind too.

Sit & stay healthy with Pilates

To keep yourself feeling fit and healthy, why not set yourself the goal of doing 5 minutes Pilates at your desk whenever you get a break? If you’ve time for coffee, you’ve got time for Pilates.Even though you are only doing 5 minutes, you need to focus, and do the exercises mindfully. Then try to retain what you’ve learnt with you as you move around the office.

Save time by cycling

Cycling around cities is usually the quickest mode of transport. You can save time on your journey whilst fitting in a work out! Cycling is a low impact exercise, so great for those who struggle with joint pain.

Recruit a friend

To help you squeeze in a work out and see your friends, try and combine both! You could start going for a morning powerwalk, giving you the chance to burn some calories, whilst having a catch up. Or if you have more time, why not help motivate each other at the gym?

Get off the bus or train a stop earlier

There’s no need to exercise in one long chunk. A 10-minute walk to and from work will add up to a good 20 minutes of exercise a day.You can track your steps by adding a pedometer app to your phone, which can be an additional motivator.

Make those windows sparkle

Finding it hard to burn calories, when you feel as though there are so many chores to do around the house? Try embracing the housework, as this can in fact help you burn calories – win, win! For example, if you clean the windows in a circular motion you can expect to sweat off around 125 calories an hour.

Travel with a skipping rope

With no routine, exercise often falls by the wayside whilst travelling. One solution is to pack a skipping rope and skip in your hotel room.Skipping is a great cardio work out and you only need to do short bursts to gain benefits. Try using it as part of your HITT training,

Have more sex

Struggling to find some couple time and keep up with a fitness regime? Why not combine the both, through lovemaking? Not only can this help to burn calories, but it can also help you have a great sleep! Sex or masturbation can help to relieve tension and help you go off to sleep faster. By getting a good night’s sleep it can then help you to be more productive the next day, which in turn can help you squeeze in exercise!

Embrace fidgeting

Are you naturally someone who feels like they constantly have to move, whether that’s simply tapping your foot, or swinging on your chair? This could actually help you burn calories, according to research, so even with a busy schedule you could be exercising without even realising!

Thank you to our experts for these top tips!

Lily Soutter, Nutritionist and weight loss expert at lilysoutternutrition.com

Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading Women’s Natural Health Expert and author of Natural Alternatives to Sugar www.marilynglenville.com

Shona Wilkinson, Nutritionist at Superfooduk.com.

Lynne Robinson, author of Pilates for Life and founder of Body Control Pilates (to find a teacher near you visit www.bodycontrolpilates.com

Dave Wain, Carnation Footcare Podiatrist carnationfootcare.co.uk

Lily Soutter, Nutritionist and weight loss expert at lilysoutternutrition.com.

7 IDEAL TIPS AND TRICKS FOR A PEACEFUL NIGHT’S SLEEP

Rachel Stevenson
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7 IDEAL TIPS AND TRICKS FOR A PEACEFUL NIGHT’S SLEEP

There’s nothing worse than settling down for a good night’s sleep, only to find yourself wide awake by 3AM, watching your alarm clock edge closer and closer to morning. Whether it’s down to lifestyle choices or night time routine, there are lots of factors that can contribute to your quality of sleep. Take a look at these 7 tips that can help you drift off for a restful night in no time.

Make time to exercise

Scheduling regular exercise into your day has an impact on your quality of sleep. Walking, running or hitting the gym can lower stress levels and tire you out, resulting in a better sleep. Make sure to time your workout right, however, as exercising too late at night could leave you overstimulated before bedtime.

Cut the caffeine

Treating yourself to a flat white to pull you out of that morning slump is fine, but caffeine before bedtime is a big no when it comes to a restful sleep. Cut out caffeine altogether after 2pm to ensure the effects have worn off by the evening, and try to have no more than 3 cups a day.

Relax and unwind

Give yourself some time to relax before bedtime by creating a little wind-down routine. About 2 hours before hitting the hay, run yourself a relaxing hot bath with some calming epsom salts. This will relax your muscles and help your mind unwind after a stressful day, leaving you in the perfect state for a deep sleep.

Make yourself a brew

Before getting settled into bed, make yourself a relaxing cuppa. Herbal mixes of ingredients such as chamomile, valerian, lemon balm and lavender in decaffeinated teas have been shown to reduce anxiety and act as a mild sedative, making them the perfect drink to sip before bedtime.  

Limit the electronics

You might love getting snuggled up on the sofa at night, catching up on your favourite reality show with a glass of merlot – but it’s important to switch off the TV before bed. The screens of electronics such as phones, laptops and TV’s can keep your brain alert and decrease the production of the sleep hormone melatonin, and should be avoided as much as possible.

Get extra cosy

If you find yourself constantly tossing and turning through the night, the issue might lie in your bed itself. Old and worn out mattresses can become uncomfortable over time, and the wrong pillows can lead to neck and back pain. Consider investing in a new bed, such as a divan bed with memory foam mattress for optimum comfort, and go for specialist pillows that give you the right support to help you sleep soundly.

Read a book

Bedtime stories aren’t just for kids! Incorporate reading a chapter or two of a good book as part of your nighttime routine, for a sure fire way to promote relaxation and pry you away from your smartphone.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO BUDGET FOR HOME REPAIRS

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO BUDGET FOR HOME REPAIRS

When you start talking about budgeting for home repairs you know you’re a grown-up. Although it seems like a boring subject, maintenance problems and saving for unexpected repairs is important to consider for any home owner.

Anyone who owns a house will tell you that home maintenance is completely unpredictable. Unexpected disasters like the bathroom flooding or lightning hitting your roof are the worst. They catch us by surprise, and require frantic searches for a solution. If an unexpected disaster happens in our home, fixing it will involve money – and probably lots of it.

In an ideal world, we’d have a little pot of cash stored away for exactly these kinds of problems. Housing experts agree that sensible homeowners should budget 1% of the value of their property every year to maintenance and property repair. And with the average house price in the UK being £215,847, that means we should have a home improvement and repair account to the tune of £2,158.47 per annum. That’s a lot.

In all honestly, how many of us do that? Not enough, apparently. Rubber roofing specialists Rubber4Roofs surveyed 3,000 UK homeowners to find out what their home-fixing slush fund was worth. Taken on average, they found that Brits only budget £1,438.98; that’s a national shortfall of £616. Not ideal if your boiler suddenly breaks down over the winter, or your washing machine suddenly springs a leak.

With this in mind we’ve come up with 5 ideal ways to budget for home repairs.

Do the Math

According to GNB, the most common property maintenance problems include broken appliances, boiler and hot water tank faults, toilet and plumbing issues, damp and mould problems, electrical complications and redecorating. Now you have an idea of the most common problems, do the math. You’ll soon realise that you need to take budgeting seriously.

Make a list

A shocking number of people drastically underestimate the costs when it comes to home repair. Jot down what you might need to have replaced in the next few years. Revisit this list every now and again to remind yourself of potential future repairs. This will remind you that you need to save.

Get some quotes

Whether it’s the cost of a broken boiler or repairing your roof, call around and get some quotes from local contractors on how much it might cost to fix. This way you’ll have a ballpark figure on how much you need to save. Obviously you’re not going to reach your target straight away and it will take time to save this amount. However, you’ve got to start somewhere.

Save for the worst case scenario

Chances are that very few big-budget disasters will happen, but aim to save for the worst case scenario. For most people this will be roof repair, though sometimes this may even involve the foundations of your property. Once you’ve got your quote for how much it will cost, from roofing experts or house foundation repair companies, aim to save up this amount.

Get Insurance

Paying for insurance may seem like a drain, but you’re probably better off getting it than not. It may provide a financial safety net should the unexpected disaster occur.

We know that the above list is asking a lot. Planning for future expenses of something like home maintenance isn’t exactly fun. But if you at least try to save, it will be less of a headache when disaster strikes.

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