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5 IDEAL WAYS TO SAVE MONEY ON CAR MAINTENANCE

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO SAVE MONEY ON CAR MAINTENANCE

Owning a car can be expensive, with costs mounting up that you haven’t budgeted for and unexpected issues taking you by surprise when you least expect them to. The annual outlay of driving a 4-wheeler can easily run into the £1,000s. Even if you have a small car, MOTs, insurance, breakdown insurance, fuel and parking can burn a sizeable hole in your wallet. That said, it is still possible to save on all of these costs, and we’re here to help you.

As we all know, getting your vehicle serviced annually and maintaining it between service intervals is money pragmatically spent. Its far better to detect problems early on and prevent them when they are inexpensive to fix, than wait for a more serious issue later down the line. A longer life means a higher re-sale value, which none of us would say no to. Moreover, a well-maintained automobile is also more fuel efficient and this efficiency saves money. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL tips on how to save money on car maintenance.

WATCH OUT FOR DASHBOARD MESSAGES

The majority of cars today have dashboard warning messages about a broad range of aspects, including issues with the engine, braking system, oil, coolant levels and tire pressure. This is where your automobile’s owner’s manual will detail what each warning message entails and what action you need to take.

A couple of the messages are crucial and require you to pull over and immediately stop the engine. Therefore, ignore such warning messages at your own peril because paying them due attention will save you sizeable repair costs.

CHANGE YOUR DRIVING HABITS

It is possible to ride the same distance in the same time using less fuel and without cutting your top speed. In the long run, you could save up to 30% on diesel or petrol costs.

The harder you will press the pedal, the quicker the fuel will evaporate. Try to achieve the same speed using less power, roughly speaking, stay under 3,000 revs. Furthermore, always drive in the correct gear. This is because not driving in the highest possible gear taxes the engine. Try to slow the vehicle down naturally instead of using brakes frequently.

Remember, your accelerator is a money spinner and your brake a cash burner. The harder you push, the quicker money is burnt.

OIL LEVELS

Oil is critical for your car’s smooth functionality, lessening the friction which erodes away the engine and moving parts. Therefore, once a month make sure to check your vehicle’s oil level by using the dipstick under the bonnet. Moreover, top it up if required by using the correct grade for your car, while ensuring not to overfill the engine.

PREP YOUR 4-WHEELER FOR WINTER

Breakdowns are more common in winter, so it is worth being prepared. Firstly, buy a screen-scraper and anti-freeze. It’s also important to check your lights regularly to ensure they function correctly, as you don’t want to be caught out in the dark. Remember to check your tire treads – the AA commends a tire tread of minimum 3mm for winter driving. Next, prevent sticky doors with a lean coat of polish or Vaseline on rubber door seals. Always check to ensure that you’re stocked up with essentials – spare batteries and a torch, first aid kit, mobile phone charger, warm blanket, road atlas, shovel, as well as jump start cables should be the minimum you carry with you.

Finally, irrespective of how old or new your battery is, always keep a spare as the word backup is music to your ears when you are stuck in the middle of nowhere on a stormy night. If you’re looking for quality but affordable batteries, take a look at these Yuasa batteries from Hardwarexpress which have a long service life and will be able to get you through winter, no fuss.

DO NOT BUY PREMIUM FUEL FOR A STANDARD CAR

The majority of petrol stations offer high-performance fuels, yet there is little to no performance difference for most standard vehicles. Therefore, save money by avoiding super fancy fuels, unless you have a sports car which mandates using these performance fuels. If you really can’t say no, then use a super performance fuel every 3rd or 4th tank full to keep the engine efficient and clean.

5 IDEAL TIPS TO SAVE MONEY WHEN ATTENDING DESTINATION WEDDINGS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS TO SAVE MONEY WHEN ATTENDING DESTINATION WEDDINGS

There comes a time in adulthood when weddings start to come thick and fast. Friends and family of a similar generation seem to be shacking up and settling down with increasing frequency, and it starts to feel like barely a month passes without another wedding date on the calendar. In an increasingly globalised world, celebrating these happy days often involves a trip abroad, and the cost has risen accordingly. The cost of a no-show, however, is greater – causing offence and fractured relationships.

We’ll all have a more peaceful and joyous occasion if we’re not obsessing over the costs. Who wants to be thinking about saving money on drinks as the best man hoists his toast, or turning up in the same outfit for the third time this year as you couldn’t budget for a new one? With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL tips for making attending destination weddings more cost effective.

SWAP YOUR OUTFIT WITH A FRIEND

Many like minded friends will be in the same boat, wishing to look fresh and original at each event but not wishing to buy a new outfit every time. Why not swap dresses with a friend, and both turn up in a ‘new’ dress. Accessorise uniquely and with personality to make the outfit your own and no one will ever know.

BE SMART WITH FLIGHT BOOKING

Don’t leave booking your flight until the last minute, as prices can be erratic and you don’t want to leave it too late. Be smart with your flight booking – you can subscribe to price alerts on numerous websites like skyscanner.net, which will give you notice of a drop in prices. Equally as important, keep your eye on promotions as flight ticket websites often run them temporarily, with a window of sometimes as little as an hour in which to grab a bargain.

TURN THE WEDDING’S DESTINATION INTO YOUR HOLIDAY

Once you’ve committed time and money to flying halfway across the world just for a day of celebration, you might aswell make a trip of it. Base a larger holiday around the location of the wedding, wherever that may be. Internal flights are usually very reasonable, giving you a launchpad from which to delve into the culture and history of a city. Visit lots of places and don’t be confined to one spot. Don’t sit their resenting having to make a long journey for only one day – make your time count by doing some exploring!

GET CREATIVE WITH THE WEDDING GIFT

The wedding gift list is only for guidance, and usually for the unimaginative. It’s more personal (and cost-effective) to get creative. Offer to make the wedding cake if you’ve got skills in the kitchen – certainly a more thoughtful proposition than some crappy crockery clicked off a website. Try antique or even charity shops for inspiration – you can find unique presents here and often some real gems lurk on their dusty shelves.

SHARE THE COST OF ACCOMMODATION

These days the breadth of accommodation options is massive. Book an airbnb well in advance for a great deal and home comforts. Alternatively, opt to share a large villa with a group of friends – a lot more fun than a hotel and a whole lot cheaper.

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO DENMARK: WHERE TO STAY IN COPENHAGEN

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO DENMARK: WHERE TO STAY IN COPENHAGEN

A long weekend in Copenhagen is one of life’s great pleasures. Ridiculously reasonable, quick flights, an easily accessible, walkable city and glorious food and hotel options on every corner. It’s is the place for an impromptu, no-fuss getaway. With such a wealth of hotel options available, we’ve narrowed it down to just 5 IDEAL places, to take the weight off planning and help you embrace spontaneity. Here they are…

ANDERSON

Anderson is a hotel that is as vibrant as its Vesterbro hood, standing out from the crowd with verve, colour and a lust for life.This hip boutique hotel is located in one of the hippest areas of Copenhagen and possibly our favourite. Vesterbro has everything the intrepid traveller dreams of, with both comfort in the familiar and lots of new things to try. If you’re looking to make the most of the meatpacking district and it Copenhagen’s nightlife scene – this is the area to stay in.  Anderson Hotel is the sort of hotel that forms part of your city break, rather than being somewhere just to lay your head.  With loads of character and pops of colour, its vibrant personality rubs off on you and instantly brightens your mood. It’s also a place to escape and a refreshing break from white-on-white Nordic minimalism.

Read our full review of Anderson hotel here

HOTEL ALEXANDRA

Hotel Alexandra is in a prime location, bang in the city centre and in walking’s reach from the majority of Copenhagen’s major attractions. With its sleek, specific decor and urban cool, it is just the place to base yourself as you explore this trendy, sophisticated city. The enduring popularity of mid-century modern design style means the hotel will probably never need decorating again. With its clean lines and gentle organic curves, it would have appealed to guests of the 50’s and 60’s. One could imagine scenes from the boardroom of Mad Men being filmed here – whiskey, quips, charm and all.Located right next to Town Hall Square, Hotel Alexandra is about as central as you can get. This is where the famous pedestrian shopping street, Strøget, begins. Tivoli gardens is just a short stroll away and the Latin quarter, known as Latinerkvarteret to the Danes, is close too.

Read our full review of Hotel Alexandra here 

KONG ARTHUR

Tucked at the back of a cobblestoned alley overlooking the city’s lovely lakes, Hotel Kong Arthur is set in the ideal location to get under the skin of the city. The hotel itself is grand and spacious, yet manages to be cosy and personal at the same time. There’s an ambiance of comfort, open conviviality and unpretentious elegance here which we love. Around the hotel there is plenty to do and see. It’s right next to the cosy neighborhood of Nansensgade where you’ll find little bohemian cafés, trendy designer shops and lots of wine bars

Read our full review of Kong Arthur here

IBSENS

Ibsens is a charming urban boutique hotel designed to feel like a home away from home. Decorated with various art pieces by local as well as international artists, the hotel is perfectly in keeping with the spirit of its bohemian area and perfectly suited to experience Nordic urban life.If you’re looking to stay on one of the coolest streets in Copenhagen in an equally cool hotel, then Ibsens is the place.  Relaxed and lively, this hotel is the perfect base to explore Nansensgade and really get to know it, while being conveniently located to so many of Copenhagen’s best attractions.

Read our full review of Ibsens here

URBAN HOUSE

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

Read our full review of Urban House here

5 IDEAL WAYS OF GETTING AROUND LONDON FOR COMMUTERS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS OF GETTING AROUND LONDON FOR COMMUTERS

We all know that leaving your fate in the hands of the London transport gods is to play a dangerous game. The bus you need is never the one arriving, the wrong kind of sun can halt the whole rail network and using the tube is fraught with the potential for social embarrassment. What’s more, rush hour can be a vengeful beast. Motorcycle insurance company Devitt have carried out a survey of 2,000 commuters, and the results make for some all too familiar conclusions. On average, employees lose 29.6 minutes of work per week due to bad traffic on their commute, while almost 13% of people have missed a job interview because of bad traffic, a first impression no one wants to make to a potential employer. There is, however, another way. Here are our 5 IDEAL alternative ways of getting around London.

RUNNING

Kill two birds with one stone, just be sure to bring a spare set of clothes. Using every journey as an opportunity for exercise could be the perfect solution to fear of traffic congestion. Sure, you run the danger of arriving to any job interview, day at work or even date as a sweaty, red-faced mess, but it’s better than staring at the Metro for an hour while trying to avoid eye contact with fellow passengers.

MOTORBIKE

According to Devitt’s research, over a quarter of us (27.8%) experience ‘biker envy’ when motorcyclists cruise past us in traffic jams. We’re only surprised that number isn’t higher. Who hasn’t felt the green monster lurking when staring out of that bus window, when you haven’t as much as inched forward for the past hour, and a motorbike roars past, slaloming through the traffic.

It’s not just for the young either, so dust off those fears of a mid-life crisis accusation. As the infographic at the bottom of the page shows, it’s an inclusive pursuit that Londoners are embracing with vigour.

SCOOTER

We’ve all seen them, trundling along the pavement on two wheels, scattering pedestrians into doorways as they go. Yes, we too have judged them. But think again, as the scooter is a fast, efficient and manageable way of getting from A to B. To add some extra fun to your commute (god knows it needs it), consider riding a stunt scooter through the city, which is a fun, unique and affordable way to navigate through London.

WALKING

It’s an honest, green and fun way to take in the city, and good for you too! This fascinating walking tube map of London (LINK SAUSY) shows the real distances between tube stops, and makes for some really interesting reading. Once you start walking London more regularly, you’ll realise everything isn’t so far as you thought, and begin to appreciate some of the lesser-known corners of the capital.

WORK FROM HOME

Hey, if all else fails, use the transport, or fear of it, as an excuse to work from home, or in other words a duvet day. Luxuriate in being motionless by spending the day in bed, watching netflix and eating takeaway pizza whilst occasionally checking your emails so it looks like you’re online. Just don’t make a habit of it.

HOTEL REVIEW: GROSVENOR HOUSE – THE IDEAL PLACE TO STAY IN THE HEART OF DUBAI’S MARINA

Editorial Team
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HOTEL REVIEW: GROSVENOR HOUSE – THE IDEAL PLACE TO STAY IN THE HEART OF DUBAI’S MARINA

The words luxury, sunshine and relaxation make our ears prick with excitement, without fail. If you’re the same, then Grosvenor House could be the perfect place for you. Based in the heart of Dubai Marina, with its own nightclub, top restaurants and award winning spa, this is a vibrant hot spot for astute, holiday-goers.

Idea

Set across two iconic 45 storey towers, every facet of the Grosvenor House Hotel is designed to impress. From views overlooking the shimmering water and yachts in the marina to fine dining in over 20 bars & restaurants, Grosvenor House has become a party hot spot for Dubai’s elite this is a hotel seen as a destination venue not to be missed.

Location

Dubai, with its audacious architecture, spectacular skylines, and obsession with fashion has increasingly become a destination a must visit destination for the modern traveller. From the Palm, a man made structure visible from space, to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai is brimming with five (and six, and seven – go figure) star resorts, making choosing accommodation into one of those good dilemmas. We life had more of them. Grosvenor House, known for its iconic tower and outstanding reputation, is a fantastic choice.

Located in the heart of Dubai Marina, it is just a short (3 minute) bus journey to the beach, not far from the Palm or Jumeriah beach. The architecture of the tower block is iconic, with 1930’s style Manhattan exterior contrasting with the blue neon lighting. This gives the building a modern styling, and helps them stand out amongst the neighbouring towers lining the marina.

Atmosphere

Grosvenor’s grand, high ceilinged lobby – complete with marble floors, columns and a giant red and silver jewelled falcon (the UAE’s national bird) is the welcoming scene to arriving guests. Light and refreshing watermelon drinks from the hotel’s staff allow you to cool off whilst checking in.  

With every last thing thought of; from a complimentary daily amenity such as plates of fruit delivered to your room, to scent pumped around the communal areas to heighten customers’ sensual experience; it is safe to say Grosvenor House oozes luxury from its very pores.

Rooms

Rooms in Grosvenor House are everything you would expect; sumptuous decor is sophisticated and cosmopolitan, decorated in warm neutrals and rich chocolate browns giving a calm and cozy feeling. Quality furniture including a lounging chair in luxurious fabric makes you want to utilise the Nespresso coffee machine sitting on the side, put on the white fluffy robe provided by the hotel and curl up with a book.   

Unlike London where space is a precious commodity, Dubai has it in abundance. This has resulted in the architects not being shy with allocating space. A large dressing room complete with vanity mirror and wardrobes is the norm, whilst the marbled bathroom boasts a separate shower room leaving the bath beckoning you in for a soak in the provided, gorgeous Bvlgari products. All of this creates the perfect haven to inspire you to dress up for the glamorous restaurants and bars on site.

Facilities

With courteous staff to help you with every errand, welcoming your requests with smiles abundant it’s not difficult to see why Grosvenor House has become the destination of choice for both businessmen and celebrities alike. Whether it is organising the chauffeur service from the airport or directing you through the hotel’s maze of corridors, the staff were always there,  and genuinely giving the impression everyone cared. 

A bus provided by the hotel can shuttle you across to the sister hotel Le Méridien Beach & Resort, which boasts the city’s best beach and water sports facilities, where you get full, complimentary access. At the sister hotel you are provided with a towel and some of the best service in Dubai,  staff are on hand at the sun beds to provide chilled towels to help keep you cool, a little luxury as Dubai reaches scorching temperatures, allowing you to cool down without lifting a foot! The sea water is unbelievably warm, it feels more like you are descending into a bath rather than the sea, which although enjoyable means it does little to cool you off in the searing heat. Thanks again then, to the cooling flannels supplied by the staff.

Food and Drink

Breakfast is served at Sloanes, the main buffet restaurant, located on one of the lower floors and open 24 hours. Guests have a choice to be seated either on a sunny terrace or indoors. The spread was as extensive, with everything imaginable from sushi to a full english or continental. All dishes turned out to be as delicious as each other. There was also a chef visible, happy to prepare just about anything that wasn’t available in the buffet – waffles, pancakes, eggs and more.

After this, the list is extensive, boasting over 20 bars and restaurants – it would be some feat if you managed to visit them all during your stay. We particularly recommend an evening dinner in Toro Toro, overlooking the marina. The menu is created by Richard Sandoval, a famed Latin American Chef with over 15 years’ experience across the globe. He has built a reputation for combining authentic Latin ingredients with international flavours and inventive techniques, to create new and unexpected concepts. With a bar stretching the length of the restaurant and a long list of quirky cocktails, we found ourselves wittering away hours just experiencing the flavours before we even considered the food.  Once we did, we were blown away, this food being designed to be shared. The plates gave off so much flavour we were glad we got to taste so many.

As for nightlife, Grosvenor House doesn’t disappoint. For a quiet aperitif, sip bubbly at Bar 44, famed for its 44 different types of champagne and dazzling views. For a nightcap, head to perennial hot spot Buddha Bar, for a spicy cocktail. Finally, for a dance head to Embassy, the on-site club playing tunes into the early hours.

Spa

Aligning with the hotel’s luxurious environment is a complete floor dedicated to wellness and beauty. A zen like Asian Spa in a unique Balinese theme, as soon as the lift doors open the atmosphere of serenity envelops you from head to toe. Dimmed lights, oriental rugs, mozaic tiles and silk cushions create a unique and tranquil ambiance. Facilities include hammam pools (5 temperature controlled pools ranging from cool to very warm), lined up in a row, eleven Chakra themed treatment rooms and his ’n’ hers relaxation areas with spa, sauna and steam rooms.

When it comes to treatments the list is extensive; whether it be Turkish mud treatments, Balinese massage,  hydro therapy or just a good old fashioned sauna and steam, you’ll find it here.  The facials are wonderfully indulgent and blissfully relaxing – products are gently scented and the heated towel beneath you is guaranteed to make you want to drift off!

Aside from the spa there is also a nail bar, hair salon and men’s grooming lounge, as well as a full gym and outdoor pool for those who like to keep fit. We have to admit we were enjoying the spa far too much to venture out to experience this.

Why Go

Dubai is full of luxury, with all tastes in shopping, dining and relaxation well and truly catered for. If you are looking for that extra little something, brimming with charm and personality, look no further than Grovesnor House.

Website: www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com

Disclosure: IDEAL stayed as a guest of the hotel

HOTEL REVIEW : ARMANI HOTEL, DUBAI – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR FOR A FASHIONABLE STAY

Editorial Team
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HOTEL REVIEW : ARMANI HOTEL, DUBAI – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR FOR A FASHIONABLE STAY

If like us you love all things fashion, then you’ll jump at the opportunity to stay at a hotel dreamed up by a global luxury brand. Elegant and minimalist in design, this hotel has the personal touch of Georgio Armani himself, his eye for detail and unique style apparent in every fine detail. What’s more, with eight restaurants on site you’ll have plenty of options for dinner and plenty of opportunities to flaunt your wardrobe.

IDEA

The Armani Hotel bills itself as world of sophisticated beauty, living up to that boast and then some. Indeed, this designer hotel is a haven of luxury for fashionistas, combining couture with Armani’s signature minimalist design to create a luxurious environment to unwind and relax.  

LOCATION

Located in the social epicentre of downtown Dubai, inside The Burj Khalifa, the Armani Hotel is free of some of the more brash and touristy characteristics of many popular hotels in Dubai. The bottom eight floors of the world’s tallest building, as well as levels 38 and 39, are dedicated to this grand hotel, making it the perfect location to flaunt on Instagram or indulge in a feeling of smug self-satisfaction.

STYLE AND CHARACTER

A soothing space of dark leathers, stone floors and muted furnishings is imagined and designed by the brand’s Casa line. Virtually everything in the hotel is affiliated with the Armani Company in some way, from the bed linen in the rooms, to the olive oil in the restaurant. Even the moisturizer in the Armani Spa boasts their famous scent. The smell becomes more and more familiar as your stay extends, permeating from every wall, hallways, reception spaces and all. If immersing yourself in the Armani experience is your idea of a good time, then the proposition of coming away smelling of him will be an exciting one.

As for the furniture it is simple but chic, with an emphasis on minimalism – the space is all dark, with brushed-wood floors, walls and walkways, accented with candles and orchid plants.

Even as you enter, staff in Armani suits, all looking like runway models, greet you, escorting you to your destination. That’s a pretty special welcome right there. Each guest is assigned a personal lifestyle manager (unfashionable folk might call them butlers) on arrival.

Rooms

All the 160 rooms ranging from deluxe, king to suites, silently scream understated luxury. Sleeping in a sumptuously soft bed surrounded by custom-created fabrics and bespoke furniture and washing with expensive complimentary toiletries, all designed by Armani, makes for a glamourous stay indeed.

FOOD

There are over eight restaurants serving a selection of world cuisines ranging from Japanese and Indian to Mediterranean and authentic Italian fine dining. Each is individually themed for the food type (Indians food served in a blend of golden statues and bright coloured background) and you have a huge selection to choose from. Our favourite restaurant is simple, yet effective. The Armani Deli is counter-style deli cuisine, while Armani Ristorante brings fanciful Italian fare to a stunning dining room cast in personalized bone china and zen-inspired seating areas. Here we enjoyed the most delightful mozzarella that tasted like something straight from the heart of Italy. Simple lunch time delights of a plate of homemade pasta, fresh bread and classic charcuterie is always appealing, especially when accompanied with a glass of bubbles and a view of the dancing fountains!

FACILITIES

The Armani hotel has a stunning spa, where you can relax after shopping in Dubai’s mall (which the hotel has direct access to) or browsing the latest couture collections. Like the rest of the hotel, each room in the spa has been carefully thought out. We love the use of natural light which produces a fresh and relaxing vibe. Individually personalised treatments are devised after personal consultation with one of the spa’s experts, and are all carried out with naturally fragranced oils, created from the Armani Franchise of course. The hotels swimming pool molds itself around curves of the Burj Khalif is absolutely spectacular.

There’s also a custom-made Armani chocolate shop, an in-house florist and contemporary art gallery. A Bentley House car service is available for guests to use, which when considering Dubai’s rush hour, it seems fitting that if you are going to spend time sitting in traffic, you may as well do it in style!

WHY GO

It’s certainly expensive and you feel the urge to constantly look flawless, but with a personal lifestyle manager assigned to you the moment you check in, who takes care of anything you can think of, all of life’s worries seem very far away.  That feeling, surely, is worth every penny.

Address: Burj Khalifa – 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Website: www.armanihotels.com

Disclosure: IDEAL stayed as a guest of the hotel.

HOTEL REVIEW: AT.MOSPHERE DUBAI – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR COCKTAILS IN THE TALLEST BUILDING IN THE WORLD

Editorial Team
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HOTEL REVIEW: AT.MOSPHERE DUBAI – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR COCKTAILS IN THE TALLEST BUILDING IN THE WORLD

If you like your cocktails with a view, and suave, sophisticated service to match, then At.mosphere Is certainly worth a visit. With panoramic views of the Dubai coast and food served at 1350 foot high, this is a vibrant hot spot for discerning holiday-makers.

IDEA

Contemporary European Cuisine and fusion cocktails are served in a sleek surrounding to accompany panoramic views at the top of the tallest building in the world. Suddenly vertigo doesn’t seem like such a problem.

LOCATION

Driving up to the Burj Khalifa, anticipation grows as you arrive at the tallest building in the world. With its bundled tube architecture growing more slender as it reaches skywards, it’s a site to behold. The building stands proud and tall among what appears as an otherwise flat sky line in the centre of Dubai – you can’t miss it.  

THE WELCOME

Upon arrival polite, dapperly dressed hosts greet you and guide you to a special private elevator leading straight to the restaurant. We soon learn this is in fact the world’s fastest elevator, travelling at such high speeds that you are provided with sweets to ease the pressure changes during your ascent. Surprisingly, despite travelling 123 floors the thrilling ride is smooth and silent.

The doors open to a decadent hallway, shining modern architectural stairs a real focal point and centre piece, with a vast window offering breath-taking views of Dubai as the backdrop. On our visit, clear blue skies and brilliant sunshine filled the space. Through the sheer height of the restaurant, alone you are transported out of the bustle of the city below to near tranquility above, where traffic looks like toy cars on a map. 

STYLE AND CHARACTER

Walking into the restaurant, smooth camel tones compliment the mahogany walls and thick pile carpet, whilst soft tempo music provides adds to the aura of relaxation which welcomes you to the handsome venue. The relaxed vibe integrates two of the most popular dining choices; a lounge and restaurant, whilst the sleek and stylish interior ensures a contemporary vibe.

Despite the well thought out ambience, the highlight of the setting is the panoramic views across Dubai’s sky line.  6pm seems the perfect time to enjoy a cocktail whilst the sun slowly descends , creating a romantic hue across the city. World Islands, a cluster of Islands built by man that are visible from space and quite frankly, a wonder of modern civil engineering, are visible.

 

The venue has been pieced together harmoniously, allowing for the seamless transition from calm ambience by day into the more energised vibe in the evening. The wide-appeal of the place seems obvious. As evening descends, an in-house DJ spins lounge-music, creating a trendy spot for those wishing to be seen.

The view from the toilets overlooks the famous dancing fountains. Set to music, they go off every half an hour and are a beautiful sight. We suggest you frequent the ladies room, if only to admire the fountains.They make the descent back down to earth more appealing. 

FOOD

The menu is created by Jerome Lagarde, a French national with over 20 years’ experience across the globe. He has a rich history of working in Michelin starred restaurants, across three continents, including the landmark Sens & Bund in Shanghai. Since his arrival at AT.mosphere he has shaped the menu to celebrate seasonal trends, priding himself on innovation whilst only ever using freshly sourced, high quality ingredients. 

The innovative influence was apparent during our visit – we noticed Japanese influences on a fillet of beef with a karbayaki sauce, and oysters on ice served on a picturesque platter with miniature condiments to match.

For dessert we ordered praline filled mini crepes, served with soft cheese and raspberry coulis. The dessert’s presentation was flawless; the scarlet sauce adding drama to the dish’s overall aesthetic. Appearances were a telling indication of taste – the rich chocolate was offset perfectly by the creamy soft cheese.

DRINK

The cocktail list is extensive and boasts a varied range where the classics are well represented, but a deviation to more experimental fusions isn’t shyed away from. A suitably opulent drink made using 24K gold seemed appropriate for the surrounds. 

WHY GO

Although you can’t just walk in – booking is essential and there is a minimum spend – it’s worth the blowout. It’s not every day that you can say you dined and drank at the world’s tallest building. For these bragging rights alone, go to At.mosphere. You won’t regret it.

Address: At.mosphere Burj Khalifa, 1 Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai

Website: www.atmosphereburjkhalifa.com

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL SHOPPING TRIP

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL SHOPPING TRIP

While procrastinating, reading Buzzfeed lists and burrowing deep into YouTube wormholes, we came across some great graphs from Voucher Codes (scroll to the bottom of the page to check them out!).

They detail 10 all too familiar shopping annoyances and sum up just about every retail experience we’ve ever endured. We laughed, but then the soul searching followed. Shopping is meant to be fun, right? We’ve compiled these 5 IDEAL tips on how to avoid the hurdles next time you go on a spending splurge.

BUDGET (AND STICK TO IT!)

We know it’s boring and we know it’s difficult, but the splurge on pay-day is the curse of every keen shopper out there. By loading all the fun up onto one crazy day of spending, you’re causing yourself unnecessary woe for the rest of the month. What if you come across that dress you’ve been searching for since 2010, in your size and colour, a few days before payday? If you set a weekly budget for hobbyist shopping, you might just have enough to buy it.

DOWNLOAD AN INTERNET BANKING APP

The fear of rejection from the chip and pin machine haunts the aisles of big retailers and boutique stores alike. It’s a moment of heart-thumping nervousness as the machine processes your number, redirecting blame to the bank already on your lips. However, banking apps on your phone can be personalised to warn you when your overdraft limit is approaching, meaning you’ll never have to be red-faced at the till again.

BRING HELPERS

If you’ve rather over-extended yourself, your hands are full and the bag handle between your teeth is getting more stretched with every step, why not enlist the help of friends and family. Offer to look after your niece for the day, and take her shopping, in turn recruiting two more hands whilst treating her to some new clothes and a fun day out. Suggest a first tinder date is to be conducted in Westfield – you can tell a lot about a potential new partner by their patience in H&M. Go the old people’s home and offer to take your great aunt Mavis out for the day – her wheelchair has loads of room for bags underneath. However you want to do it, you’ll both appreciate the company and conversation just as much as the help with the heavy lifting.

REMEMBER YOUR PIN NUMBER WITH A LITTLE DITTY

If memorising numbers isn’t your thing, and you’re often found crippled with stage fright when the card machine spotlight is on you, try converting your pin into a little rhyme. Bare with us on this one. 4063……you’re so sexy. You get the idea. Alternatively, make the numbers meaningful to your life, and easier to remember in the process. 8709….the year of your birth plus the year you went to Brazil, for example. Works every time.

TURN THESE GRAPHS INTO A GAME

If all else fails, print out the list below, and take it with you on every trip to the shops. Reward yourself an extra £1 to your shopping budget every time you tick off one of this inevitable occurrences. In no time, you’re coffers will be lined handsomely and you’ll be actively seeking your ex in the local Sainsburys or deliberately forgetting your bag for life. It makes perfect sense to us, anyway!

5 IDEAL HOBBIES FOR LITTLE BOYS & GIRLS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL HOBBIES FOR LITTLE BOYS & GIRLS

Having a hobby is important for people of all ages, giving us the opportunity to spend our time in a way that we love. For children, however, having a hobby isn’t only fun but also has a big impact on learning and development, helping to build confidence and widening knowledge and experience. If you’re looking for a new hobby to introduce to your little one, take a look at these five IDEAL children’s hobbies that both girls and boys will love!

Arts and crafts

Art and crafts is a popular choice of activity for children, and it’s easy to see why. Aside from encouraging creativity, arts and crafts allow your child to practice fine motor skills, develops problem solving abilities, and engages all of the senses. It’s easy to do, too. Many supplies can be found or made within the home, while wholesale suppliers offer discounts if you need to buy a lot of materials in bulk for one or more children.

Kinesthetic learners will thrive with arts and crafts, helping them build confidence and self-esteem for later life. Children who enjoy creating art may also continue to do so into as they grow up, giving them a brilliant hobby, and one that can be turned into a profession, to cherish throughout their life.

Dancing

Dancing can be one of the best activities for your child to do in their spare time. The obvious benefits of dance include reduced risk of childhood obesity, healthy blood pressure and lower likelihood of developing health issues. Dancing can also develop your child’s strength and endurance, and help to build teamwork skills from dancing in a group. Best of all, you’ll love picking out the adorable dance clothing and ballet costumes for your child’s new hobby!

Gardening

If you or someone else in the family is prone to a spot of gardening, it’s more than likely you’ve enlisted your little one for a bit of assistance in the past. Getting kids involved in gardening makes for the perfect hobby, engaging the senses while teaching responsibility and patience. Having your child plant and nourish their own fruit and vegetables also encourages healthy eating and a respect for nature due to a sense of pride they feel from monitoring the process from seed to plate.

Sports

Any activity that keeps your child active is beneficial, making sports the perfect hobby for little girls and boys. Along with fitness and health benefits, participating in sports such as football, netball and tennis improves children’s coordination, self-esteem and social skills. Sport also encourages children to spend more time outdoors, having a huge impact on their overall well being – and prying them away from the TV screen!

Reading

Think back to your childhood, and there’s bound to be a story or two that you just couldn’t get enough of! Reading is such a simple yet amazing hobby for children to participate in, improving concentration, imagination, language skills and educating your child on the world around them. If possible, dedicate a space in your home by creating a reading den for your child, giving them their very own space in which to sit back and relax with their favourite book.

5 IDEAL CORNERSTONES TO BUILDING SUCCESS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL CORNERSTONES TO BUILDING SUCCESS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Who says building and construction is only for boys? If you’re looking for a career that you can count on, where there will always be work and that gives you a sense of accomplishment (I built that) then take a chance on building a career in construction. Some women think it’s the best job they’ve ever had. However, to survive it is essential to have a solid foundation on which to develop your career, and with this in mind, here are our 5 IDEAL tips on how to build success in the construction industry.

EDUCATE YOURSELF

The reason knowledge is power is that it provides you with the tools to solve problems. One issue those who don’t go to university risk is a lack of education, both formal and informal. If you want to carve out a career in construction, the knowledge gap needs plugging. Start by considering extra courses which will boost your skill set. 

Online universities offer lean production classes from the comfort of your home, while medical training seminars are also available. For employers, it is much better to have an employee who approaches the position thoughtfully and well-informed, therefore eliminating the risk of mistakes. 

Because, let’s face it, when you’re in control of a pneumatic drill or punch press machine, that knowledge gap is going to get exposed real quickly if it hasn’t been previously plugged…

FIGURE OUT YOUR NICHE

The construction industry is just like any other in the fact that it has a whole host of areas in which you can shine, and where your specific skillset can help you thrive. However, recently there has been a rise in people going into the industry due to the perceived benefits, without having the necessary passion. 

This is problematic because extra people means fiercer competition, making it harder to stand out from the crowd. The solution is to find a niche and work on becoming the main authority in that sector. Then, when anyone needs help or advice, yours will be the face which firsts comes to mind. Even if rivals edge in, a niche is a great way to get a foothold in the industry. 

STAY IN YOUR LANE

Office politics exist on-site just as much as they do in an office, the only difference being it isn’t confined to four walls. Simply put, the people who you work with have an impact on your career as they hold the keys to all the doors. Get on the wrong side of them and it could be the end of your fledgling life on the construction site. As a rule, try and engage with people when possible to show off your personality, but don’t go overboard. Also, don’t get dragged into picking sides as it burns bridges. Keep your head down, work hard, and have some fun.

Photo by Sophie Mikat on Unsplash

LOOK FOR OPPORTUNITIES

Scouring the industry for opportunities applies to both your current job and potential new roles. No one wants to stagnate, so seizing your chance when it comes is vital. In your current position, this might include learning how to use ERP systems for the construction industry, working weekends to show you’re reliable, or honing up on a particular technique associated with your specific discipline. However, if you have to turn away from the firm, don’t be afraid to look elsewhere. It is hard because you will feel a sense of loyalty, but you have to do what is best for your career.

DON’T GIVE UP

We all suffer knockbacks. View them as a natural part of the process, and a learning tool on your route to progress. Failure is only failure if we don’t take a lesson from it. Adopt this positive mindset and you’re sure to go far in the construction industry.

5 IDEAL RESTAURANTS TO EAT AT IN PHU QUOC, VIETNAM

Joseph Gann
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5 IDEAL RESTAURANTS TO EAT AT IN PHU QUOC, VIETNAM

Phu Quoc, Vietnam, is an island on the up, with new hotel developments and restaurants cropping up as fast as the island will have them. Regardless of this, the island’s cuisine is at its best when staying true to its traditional trades, namely fish and peppercorn cultivation. The best restaurants we experienced on the island all had this in common – day boat fresh seafood and a host of other local ingredients, all cooked with a lightness of touch and respect that the product deserves. Here are our 5 IDEAL restaurants on the beautiful island of Phu Quoc.

RED RUM

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.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! The menu is dependent on the local fishermen’s catches of the day – emphasizing just how fresh and delicious everything is. Local seafood that’s grilled to perfection and served beachside is worth it any time of day.

Read our full review of Red Rum here

MANGO BAY

Perhaps the most romantic dining spot we’ve ever been to. The outdoor wooden deck overlooking the sea is the ideal place to watch the sunset while imbibing on good food and drink with your lover.The location and atmosphere of On The Rocks is unrivaled on the island and the food is good too.  There’s a specials board largely adorned with sea creatures, and the waiters will steer you towards the most popular dishes of a similar bent from the longer menu.  There are a number of delicious sounding Thai dishes on the menu, which makes sense as the restaurant overlooks the Thai Gulf.

Read our full review of Mango Bay here

THE CRAB HOUSE

Shellfish this fresh should never be overwhelmed with frippery. Crab House realises this and does everything in its power to celebrate the lure of sweet, moreish crab. For us, that is everything one can ask for from a restaurant celebrating one, beautiful ingredient.

Read our full review of The Crab House here

ITACA

Catalan chic and hospitality is at the heart of Itaca. Strut into a candlelit front garden, smooth grooves soundtracking your entrance, and you’re immediately welcomed with a warm, gracious greeting. Tapas are the focus and we were flown straight to the bouqerias of Barcelona with our first bite of pan con tomate and tortilla. Everything was clean and fresh, yet hearty, and super authentic. To say we were transported straight to Spain would do a disservice to the wonder of the island of Phu Quoc, but Itaca manages to stay both true to the traditions of Spain and celebrate flourishes of southern Vietnamese décor and ingredients. What you’ll certainly feel on arrival, wherever you’re from, is very much at home.

Read our full review of Itaca here

PARADISO RESTAURANT

Located on Sao Beach,  one of the most beautiful and remote beaches on Phu Quoc, Paradiso Restaurant is a spacious affair with a large seafront patio, seconds from the sea. Fish is fresh, brought in from day boats visible from the restaurant, and cooked on the grill to order. With sweet service and ice cold beers, the paradise in the name is certainly done justice.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO BUILD A CAREER WHILE YOU TRAVEL THE WORLD

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO BUILD A CAREER WHILE YOU TRAVEL THE WORLD

It’s a common held belief that if you want to build a successful career, you need to be willing to commit to one location and one company. Far from it. Although building a career as you globe trot won’t be easy, and that’s a fact, it isn’t impossible either. By harnessing the power of the internet and social media then life sat in an office, typing away on a computer, staring at the clock, could be a thing of the past.

There is an alternative to spending each hour at work sat in a small confined office – you can travel the world and move up the career ladder at the same time, enriching your cultural horizons as well as your job prospects. Read on for 5 IDEAL ways to build a career while you travel the world.

Select a career that’s a good fit for traveling

The fact is if you want to build a career while traveling the world, you need to be realistic about your career path. There are some careers that are a fantastic fit for travelers, and others that being on the move is just not fit for. While a career as a journalist, a medical professional, or a chef tends to pair well with a life on the road, a career in hair and beauty, accounting, or childcare, does not. Serious about making a go of things on the road? Then you need to be selective about the type of career that you choose to undertake. Don’t just think about your passions – though these are the best place to start – but also think about the job that will pair well with a life spent exploring every corner of the globe.

Study on-the-go

Don’t fancy spending years at college getting a degree? Consider learning on the road. Thanks to the internet, learning remotely has never been easier. From courses about digital marketing and business management to degrees in nursing, you can learn almost anything remotely and getting a qualification at the end of it. You can learn a new skill from scratch, or you can expand your knowledge in a certain area. For instance, say you are in nursing and want to improve your skills, you can. Want to Do Something Unique with a BSN? Check out your choices by having a browse online. You can learn almost anything over the web, which means that you can travel and learn as you go. Ideally, if you are going to do an online degree or course while traveling, it’s best to choose one with recorded lectures and seminars, so that you can fit studying around your lifestyle.

Speak a second (and third) language

Can you speak a second or even a third language? If the answer is yes, you will find building a career as you travel much easier. The fact is that getting hired abroad is much, much easier if you speak the local language. Of course, you can’t learn every language in the world, but one or two additions to your mother tongue stand you in good stead across the globe. According to research, the three best languages to learn are Spanish, French, and Arabic. If you can master even one of these, you will find that working abroad and building a career becomes that little bit easier. For anyone that wants to work abroad, being able to speak a second language can be a vital skill and one that can propel their progress.

Build a global network

What does having a global network mean? It means having contacts all over the world in a range of industries. The fact is that you never know you may need to call on, which is why it’s so vital to build a global network, made up of all manner of contacts. What you want to do is find a contact for every possibility. So that should you want to move into commercial banking in Dubai, you have a contact for that. Or, imagine you want to break into the photography industry in Paris, you have a contact for that. Say you want to work in medicine in India, you want to have a contact for that. The more hooked up you are in terms of the contacts you have, the better. Once you begin traveling regularly, you will need a global network, so it pays to take the time both building bonds and cultivating new ones.

Create a blog

Building a blog isn’t for everyone, but it’s a great option if you have the skills to write about and photograph your travel. Not only can a blog showcase what you are getting up to in each area of the world, but it can also be a great second income source. Build your blog up, including its concurrent social media channels, and you can earn money from your blog and its social pages. Yes, really – you can earn a good amount of money from blogging, some people even live (and travel) purely off of their blogging income.

So, it is possible to build a fantastic career while you are traveling, it’s just a case of knowing the steps that you need to take to do so. It won’t always be easy, of course, but being able to work and travel at the same time, doing something that you love, makes all the time, effort, and hard work that goes into building this kind of career worth it.

4 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR AUTUMN GARDEN

Editorial Team
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4 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR AUTUMN GARDEN

The highlights of the autumn garden are some of the most heart warming and surprising.  Maybe it’s the rich fall colours that seem to glow, even on dull days.  Maybe it’s that lush burst of growth of the grass, encouraged by morning dew and more frequent rainfall. The gardening year is far from closing, there’s plenty to do to make the most of the season and prepare for the future.

There is a treasure trove of seasonal plant material on sale in garden centres and nurseries. Even if it’s still alive, get rid of summer bedding from those patio containers and pots. There are lots of wonderful autumn and winter container plants that will really brighten up the patio and doorstep: violas, pansies, heathers, heucheras, cyclamen and a host of foliage subjects. Many of these will stay looking good through winter.

Flowers

There are also all those lovely spring flowering bulbs to plant in preparation for another season. Plant any small bulbs such as snowdrops, iris and fritillarias as soon as possible. They deteriorate quickly if left out of the ground for long. Hold off planting tulips until late autumn. If planted to early they can suffer from frost damage or the disease ‘tulip fire’. Daffodils and narcissi can be planted at any time.

Clean up!

Leaves are falling, so keep gathering them regularly and do not leave them lying on the grass. It’s best to mow them up with the mower on a high setting if possible.  This chops the large ones coarsely and adds a few green grass cuttings that help the composting process. It is certainly much less backbreaking than raking; quicker too.

Plant things

Remember that autumn is the best time to plant new trees and shrubs, also to move anything in your garden that needs relocating.  Some shrubs will give instant impact if planted now, they can also benefit wild birds that visit your garden. Cotoneasters are a great choice. Tiny white flowers in spring that attract bees and other pollinators, scarlet berries in autumn and winter that the birds really enjoy. If you are thinking of a planting a tree, think beyond spring blossom. Sorbus and malus both have colourful fruits that provide winter food for birds if you can tempt them to something organic away from the bird feeder.

Be trendy

If you choose just one shrub to plant it has to be a hydrangea: these have gone from being old fashioned to super-trendy in the past couple of years. They are at their best in autumn when their brighter colours fade to something far more sophisticated and beautiful, before they turn parchment in winter. For flower arrangers, this is the time to cut them and dry them to preserve their faded beauty.

Whatever you are planting ground preparation and careful planting gives the best results. So fork over the ground and mix in plenty of garden compost or shrub and tree planting compost. Dig a hole that’s plenty deep and wide enough and plant firmly. Always stake and tie any new trees securely.

5 IDEAL RESTORING RULES TO PREPARE YOUR HAIR FOR AUTUMN

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL RESTORING RULES TO PREPARE YOUR HAIR FOR AUTUMN

nature-sunset-person-woman-large-2

Make way for chunky knits, cooler weather and hot drinks – Autumn is upon us. With the change of season comes a change in haircare. Now is the perfect time to repair damage that occurred to the hair during the care-free summer months and to bring back life, volume and shine. Celebrity hairstylist and style director at the Daniel Galvin salon in Mayfair, Asgar Saboo, shares his top 5 tips to repairing damage and bringing life back to the hair:

Argan it!

Switch to moisturising shampoos and conditioners with Argan Oil in them, which will help turn dry, coarse hair into a silky soft, shiny mane.

Spritz it!

Heat damage from the summer sun and hair styling tools can cause hair to become frizzy. To fix this, spritz heat protecting spray onto hair before styling or blow-drying to prevent frizz.

Trim it

Get a fresh trim to start the Autumn season and relieve your hair of any split-ends caused by sandy beaches and salty air which can damage hair and lead to breakage.

Moisture it!

Inject moisture back into your hair by using a hair mask once to twice a week. Say goodbye to dry hair!

Volumize it!

Create more volume by using a volume-boosting shampoo, and blow-drying the hair upside down. This technique, paired with the shampoo will ensure maximum volume added to your hair, giving you a healthier, bouncier style for Autumn.

 

10 IDEAL PLACES TO EAT AMAZING SOURDOUGH BREAD IN LONDON

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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10 IDEAL PLACES TO EAT AMAZING SOURDOUGH BREAD IN LONDON

Intelligible only to the initiated, Sourdough was once an esoteric bread option which many considered, well, sour. Chewy too. How times have changed. Lovers of bread now revere this tang and prize a slight bounce in the middle of their bread.  A good round of sourdough is now the marker of a top-class restaurant, with more and more of us having our own starter culture at home bubbling away and scaring off curious visitors. Hell, they’ve even named a whole month after it, with September being the month of Sourdough.

Pleasingly, one doesn’t have enjoy a multi-course tasting menu just to experience the capital’s finest sourdough, although that is one way to do it. No, now London has some great bakers specialising in this wonderful loaf. With Sourdough September just days away, we’ve picked our IDEAL ten places – some restaurants, some bakeries – serving the best sourdough in London.

HEDONE BAKERY, Bermondsey

An obsessive, research led approach to ingredients and method by chef Mikael Jonsson has resulted in a bread held in the highest esteem across London and beyond. It’s a belter, with a deep and complex crust and holes in the crumb showing off a perfect prove. This loaf is so good that numerous other top London restaurants have laid down their arms, admitted defeat and started buying in their bread from Hedone. If that’s not a seal of approval, we don’t know what is. Find loaves being slung at Spa Terminus, Bermondsey, and in several bakeries and cafes across the capital.

Website: Spa Terminus

NOBLE ROT, Clerkenwell

Noble Rot does some damn fantastic bread. Go to this winebar for a glass early evening and order the bread from the bar menu. A trio of cracking offerings make the perfect accompaniment to some Ortiz anchovies or a bowl of olives. The sourdough is fantastic, but don’t overlook their rosemary foccacia or rye – both equally stunning.

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

Website: noblerot.co.uk

MAMMADOUGH, Brixton

Mamma Dough is a South London pizza restaurant whose base uses an amazing, standout sourdough. It’s so good it muscled in on the name of the place. We’d definitely recommend a trip just for their starters – you can enjoy a plate of Sardinian charcuterie with some of their superb sourdough. Follow this with a pizza using that sourdough as a base and that’s a one-two punch of deliciousness.

Address: 354, Coldharbour Ln, Brixton SW9 8QH

Website: mammadough.co.uk

E5 BAKEHOUSE, Hackney

One of the bakeries budding aficionados hold up as the template to baking success, E5 Bakehouse has such a devoted following that at the weekend you’ll see queues snaking towards Shoreditch. The enormity of the operation is apparent at the till as you order, you’ll see the kitchen in action and shelf upon shelf of the good stuff. The bread is so fine it supplies a number of London restaurants, including one of our favourites, Brawn.

Address: 395 Mentmore Terrace, London E8 3PH

Website: e5bakehouse.com

ST. JOHN BREAD & WINE, Clerkenwell

St. John is held in high esteem in chef’s circles for many reasons. Their love of tradition, family recipes and rejection of unnecessary, showy flourishes has been a model for the current trend of more pared back, austere restaurant openings. This philosophy translates to their magnificent sourdough, served in their restaurant. If you don’t fancy a full meal, they also have a bakery nearby selling the wonderful loaf, on both Commercial and Druid Street.

Address: Ropewalk, London SE1 2HQ

Website: www.stjohngroup.uk.com

BRICK HOUSE, East Dulwich (now permanently closed)

East Dulwich is fast becoming home to artisanal food and drink purveyors, and Brickhouse is the finest producer of sourdough in the area. There is great respect for their craft, leavening for two days and using baking stones. The owner travelled to San Francisco to learn the art of the famous fermented bread and we’re very grateful that he did.

*As of January 2020, Brick House has closed*

Address: 1 Zenoria St, East Dulwich, London SE22 8HP

Website: www.brickhousebread.com

FABRIQUE, Shoreditch

Fabrique now has 5 outposts, testament to their superb way with dough. Theirs follows traditional, natural craft and a bake in the stone oven. Nothing is rushed and the deep flavour is evidence of this. What’s more, they’ll deliver their loaves to your door. What’s not to love?

Address:  Arch 385, Geffrye St, London E2 8HZ

Website: http://fabrique.co.uk/

GAIL’S, South London

Gail’s is on the rise, much like their bread, now with over twenty stores in London. They haven’t let this success affect their product though, with great care, love and attention given to every loaf. They also serve gluten free sourdough, which is a big plus in our book.

Website: gailsbread.co.uk

THE DAIRY, Clapham

Blimey. We’ve got this far and not mentioned butter, sourdough’s best friend. The Dairy’s sourdough, presented in a small, brown paper bag – locking in all the warmth and fantastic aroma of the bread – is served with butter thoughtfully flavoured. At our most recent visit, this flavouring was chicken skin – a wonderful, salty foil to the bread.

*As of August 2020, The Dairy Clapham has sadly closed. Fortunately, a new iteration of The Dairy has since opened in Bermondsey, and praise the lord, their signature sourdough is still on the menu.*

Address: 15 The Pavement, London SW4 0HY

Website: the-dairy.co.uk 

PAVILION BAKERY, Victoria Park

Voted London’s best bakery with reassuring regularity, Pavilion Bakery takes its sourdough seriously. The bread is on show out front, visually stimulating even before the aroma entices you in and doesn’t let you leave without a loaf in each arm.

www.pavilionbakery.com

Address: 18 Broadway Market, London, E8 4QJ0

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