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5 IDEAL PLACES TO EAT THE BEST BAO BUNS IN LONDON

What rhymes with Bao? Wow – and wow indeed. If you’ve ever experienced one of these these fluffy pseudo-sandwiches then you’ll know what we mean.

A good bao bun is a thing of beauty. They’re both sweet and savoury all at once. The world over has fallen in love with this moreish East Asian treat. Here’s where to get your fix of these soft fluffy pillows of joy in London.

Bao, Various Locations

Want to talk delicious? Then let’s talk about Bao. Everyone knows about the steamed buns here. They are so mind-blowingly good we reckon David Chang, who propelled the bao bun craze, would definitely approve. Get the confit pork bun, because it’s the best one. It’s filled with tender pork belly; crispy shallots that give sweetness, bitterness and crunch; and topped with their homemade, Bao branded XO sauce, adding a certain vigor. If you’ve read up on Bao, then you’ll know that the queue for this place can be pretty intense. However, the buns are totally worth the wait.

Website: baolondon.com


On The Bab, Shoreditch

The baos at On The Bab are generously filled and can get messy. If you’re after something other than the obligatory pork filled bao then come here. On the Bab’s buns are full of punchy flavour but with an added Korean twist which naturally involves some kimchi. Order the bulgogi beef – it’s wonderfully tender and full of bovine flavour. The spicy pork and chicken buns are indeed spicy, so arm yourself with plenty of their delicious beers.

Website: onthebab.com

Address: 305 Old St, London EC1V 9LA, United Kingdom


Yum Bun, Spitalfields Market

Yep. These buns are yum. Offering eight varieties, bring your vegetarian friend here to try their magnificent, meat-free buns. Dishing up three vegetarian options in total, the crispy tofu bun, dressed in black bean mayonnaise and garnished with garlic choy sum and chilli pickles is our favourite. For the carnivores, you’ve got three meat options and two fish options to choose from. 

Website: www.yumbun.com

Address: Unit 3, The Kitchens, Spitalfields Market, 16 Horner Square, London E1 6EW, United Kingdom


Mr Bao, Peckham

This pocket-sized restaurant in Peckham serves up steamingly good buns. The buns are a little larger than the ones you find at Bao, but we’re not complaining. Their pork belly is braised for 24 hours – low and slow just the way we like it.

Websitewww.mrbao.co.uk

Address: 293-295 Rye Ln, London SE15 4UA, United Kingdom

4 IDEAL STEPS TO MAKE YOUR MAKEUP LAST FOR LONGER THIS SUMMER

Summer has arrived! This week we are talking all about how to protect your skin against the heat of the summer.

The heat can dry out your skin and clog your pores which will cause you to break out, but there are things you can add to your makeup routine to beat the heat.

Dazzler Beauty share their top 4 steps for perfect summer make up with IDEAL Magazine

One

The first, and most important, step in your makeup routine should be applying SPF. A lot of moisturizers already have SPF in them, but you should still apply additional sunscreen under your makeup. You can never have too much!

Two

The second thing you should add to your makeup routine, if you haven’t already, is primer. This is going to keep your makeup from melting off of your face in the middle of the day! Many primers also have SPF in them, so that’s always a good addition.

Three

The type of products you use can also make a huge difference. In the summer, cream and liquid products are best because they will sink and blend into your skin rather than just sit on the top layer of your skin. They will stay on longer and won’t wipe off as easily as powder products.

Four

The last step in your makeup routine should be spraying a few pumps of makeup setting spray t lock your makeup in place. There are tons of makeup setting sprays out on the market, but they are also easy to make yourself.

3 IDEAL CHOCOLATE RECIPES IN CELEBRATION OF CHOCOLATE DAY

It’s National Chocolate Day.Yay! To celebrate and with the help of Waitrose, we bring you these 3 ideal chocolate recipes. From moist, gooey brownies dotted with chunks of creamy sea-salt fudge to easy to make chocolate honeycomb fridge cake, these recipes will make you very happy.

Sea Salt Fudge Brownies

  • Preparation time:20 minutes
  • Cooking time:25 minutes to 30 minutes
  • Makes 24

Ingredients

180g Hope & Greenwood handmade salt caramel fudge or other fudge
250g Waitrose Continental Plain Chocolate, chopped
175g unsalted butter
3 eggs
225g light muscovado sugar
75g self raising flour
½ tsp baking powder
100g roasted, salted large peanuts, chopped

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 190C, gas mark 5. Grease and line a 27 x 18cm shallow baking tin with baking parchment. Cut the fudge roughly into 1cm cubes.
  2. Put the chocolate and butter in a bowl and melt, either using the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes or by resting the bowl over a pan of gently simmering water. Stir to make a smooth sauce.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until thick, smooth and beginning to froth. Stir in the slightly cooled melted chocolate mixture, then the flour and baking powder.
  4. Lightly stir in half the fudge and nuts and turn into the tin, spreading into the corners. Scatter with remaining fudge and nuts. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until a sugary crust has formed but the mixture feels wobbly underneath. (Check the brownies frequently towards the end of cooking as the flavour and texture are better if moist and gooey. Don’t forget that both the chocolate and butter will firm up as the cake cools.) Leave to cool completely in the tin.
  5. Lift out of the tin and cut into 24 small squares.

Chocolate Honeycomb Fridge Cake

  • Preparation time:15 minutes + chilling
  • Total time:15 minutes + chilling

Ingredients

2 x 100g bars Montezuma’s Very Dark Organic Chocolate
50g Waitrose Duchy Organic English Salted Butter, diced
4 tbsp golden syrup
150g pack Waitrose Duchy Organic All Butter Shortbread, broken into small pieces
100g whole organic almonds, roughly chopped
45g pack Cooks’ Homebaking Honeycomb Niblets
150g Love Life Ready To Eat Organic Soft Dried Apricots, diced

Method

1. Break the chocolate into a small pan, then add the butter and syrup. Heat very gently, stirring from time to time, until smooth and glossy.

2. Place the shortbread in a large bowl and stir in the almonds, honeycomb and apricots. Pour in the chocolate mixture and stir until evenly coated.

3. Tip the mixture into a 20cm loose-bottomed cake tin, patting down carefully to get it right into the corners. Chill for at least 2 hours until set. Slice into wedges to serve.

Ideal tip: Mix things up by adding your favourite fruit, nuts or sweet treats. Try scattering pumpkin seeds over the top, dusting with freeze-dried raspberries, or stirring fudge chunks through before chilling.

Mint Chocolate Tart

  •  Preparation time:15 minutes, plus 2 hours chilling
  • Serves: 8 – 10

Ingredients

200ml Waitrose Extra Thick Double Cream

25g unsalted butter

200g Waitrose

Chocolate Mint Thins, roughly chopped

1 tbsp whole milk

205g Waitrose

Sweet Pastry Case

Method

1. Put the cream in a small saucepan and gently heat until just below boiling. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the butter and chocolates until smooth. Add the milk and stir well to combine. Pour into the pastry case and allow to cool. Chill for 2 hours in the fridge.

2. If liked, dust with icing sugar and/or cocoa powder, decorate with fresh mint leaves and serve with cream, if liked.

5 IDEAL SNACKING TIPS EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW

Some people find the idea of following a set of snacking rules ridiculous. Snacking is just snacking, right? Well, not really. Done right it can keep your body healthy, happy, satiated, and free from disease. However, mindless snacking can potentially do the opposite. 

Don’t get us wrong, we’re all for snacking. However there are specific snacking practices you should follow if you want to be a better version of yourself inside and out. No matter what your personal goals are, remember that the food you eat will influence your health, happiness and well-being. 

If you’re ready to learn about smarter snacking, then make this article your guide. Here’s some simple yet very effective ideal snacking tips everyone should know. Enjoy. 

SLOW DOWN WHEN

When you get those midday munchies do you gobble your snack down without even thinking? When we’re hungry we tend to scoff down our food. Stop doing this and eat slower. Rushed and distracted eating has bad effects on your body which include indigestion, weight gain, and sluggishness. Ideally, it takes about 20 minutes before your brain recognizes that you’re full. Enjoy your morning or afternoon snack and savor every bit of it. You will thank yourself later.

PROTEIN & COMPLEX CARBOHYDRATES

Eat foods that are rich in protein and complex carbohydrates. The reason you need these nutrients is because they help keep you fuller longer (preventing overeating), aid in body repair and keep your blood glucose levels stable. We understand that sometimes nothing but a doughnut will do, but try and limit your intake of junk and unhealthy sweets. Try to replace your bad cravings with healthy snack bites. For example, instead of eating ice cream, you could prepare a bowl of fresh fruits. 

DON’T GET THRISTY

What does preventing thirst have to do with snacking healthily? Here is the answer: Once your body experiences mild dehydration, it easily mistakes thirst for hunger. Even if you’re working sedentarily hours in an office, your body is losing water through breathing, perspiration, and urination. Before you mindlessly munch on a bagel thinking that you’re hungry, drink a glass of water and wait for a few minutes. This will give you enough time to confirm if you are truly famished or not.

SNACK TO ADDRESS PHYSCIAL HUNGER

Many attempts to adopt a healthier lifestyle fail because people satisfy their need for happiness and emotional satisfaction with food. Notice that when you are stressed, you crave something sweet. Cortisol, your stress hormone, is the reason behind this. Try to be mindful and remember that real-life problems cannot be solved with food. Even if you’re snacking on the right foods, you still need to be careful not to use them irresponsibly.

DON’T BE TOO RESTRICTIVE

If you’re serious about getting fit and healthy, you shouldn’t deprive yourself of something you want to eat. There is no such thing as a perfect diet. We are humans and it’s natural to crave things that tastes good. The secret to achieving the best results is to find a healthy eating plan that fits your lifestyle. If you have snacks that you love but know they’re full of sugar, have a small serving instead of none. If you deprive yourself, you’ll be less likely to stick to your healthy eating plan. 

What do you think of our ideal snacking tips? Follow these 5 great pieces of advice on snacking and we assure you that you’ll be reaping the physical, emotional, and mental benefits of a better lifestyle. 

HOTEL REVIEW: TOWER CLUB AT LEBUA BANGKOK – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR SWEEPING VIEWS OF THE CITY

Breathtaking, staggering, awesome, astounding, splendiferous, phenomenal, remarkable – words fail to describe how utterly magnificent the panorama of Tower Club at Lebua is. But the view isn’t the only outstanding thing about this hotel.

If your have a penchant for opulence and insist on the finest things that life has to offer while you’re on holiday, then the Lebua will not disappoint. From the service and facilities, to the rooms and the captivating views over Bangkok, all aspects of the hotel play a part in making your stay at the Lebua one to remember.

The Idea

A wide range of luxurious suites that epitomize luxury living in Bangkok with sweeping river and city views.

Location

Towering over central Bangkok, the Tower Club at Lebua is located in Bang Rak, close to the Silom business district and the Chao Phraya River. The hotel is a ten minute walk from Saphan Taksin BTS, but don’t worry you won’t get lost as the hotel is very easy to find. You just have to look towards the sky and walk towards the majestic cream building with hundreds of neo-classical balconies and the golden rooftop dome.

Lebua-state-tower-hotel-bangkok-thailand-travelscoop-new-zealand

Atmosphere and Ambiance 

The first thing that hits you as you enter the Lebua is the fragrant sweet smell of the flowers and the stylish elegance of the hotel. The staff are courteous and helpful and all your personal and professional needs are graciously attended to. When you arrive expect to receive a Thai Flower Garland, freshly picked from Bangkok”s famous flower market that morning and a refreshing welcome drink. Thai hospitality leaves the rest of the world looking like amateurs and the service as the Lebua is no exception.

The height of luxury and the pinnacle of grandeur, everything at the Lebua is designed to add a touch of extraordinary and extravagance to your stay. The sheer grandiose of this hotel will make you feel like a movie star. This hotel is the whole luxury caboodle, with all things made with the wow factor in mind, from the views to the rooms and award winning restaurants. All the furnishings are comfortable and elegantly appointed, with just the right amount of opulent yet modern décor. The Lebua has undoubtedly made its name as a vantage point for guests to witness some of the most spectacular views that Bangkok has to offer.

The Rooms

The first thought that will run through your head when you step into one of Lebua’s luxury suites will probably be ‘I want this to be my apartment’.

The spacious sky-high suites of the Lebua provide breathtaking views of the city. The luxurious residential style interiors include a full kitchenette, an abundance of living space, marble clad bathrooms with luxury bath products and the sumptuous bedrooms have feathersoft beds with lovely modern furnishings.

The living area is awash with natural light and all rooms have balconies where you can enjoy the cityscape view, not to mention the perfect sunsets that are picture postcard perfect. The rooms have everything you need to function for business and relax for pleasure.

Food and Drink

You are definitely spoilt for choice when dining at the Lebua which is home to some of the most celebrated bars and restaurants in Bangkok. The Lebua is best known for its Sirocco Sky Bar, which has been made even more famous when part of the Hangover II movie was filmed there.

With spectacular views, live music and a chilled out atmosphere, it’s no wonder why there is such a fuss over this bar and why it has received worldwide recognition. Cocktails are on the expensive side but you’re paying for the view which is undeniably magnificent. From the bar you can see Chao Praya river winding its way through the city, the flashing lights of the cars and the buildings that seem to stretch for miles around you – the setting for a perfect evening.

For a wonderful meal we recommend Breeze; a fine dining alfresco restaurant where you can soak up the atmosphere and enjoy panoramic views of the city. With a superb selection of authentic Asian delicacies made from bold flavours, the freshest ingredients and by inspired techniques, each dish takes the contemporary to the extraordinary. The restaurant also serves the most remarkable cocktails.

A must try is the Experiment where an exciting science lab set with beakers and test tubes is brought to your table, allowing you to make a cocktail concoction to your own liking. Also if you are a fan of the movie you must try a Hangovertini which the hotels mixologists created especially in celebration of the film. If you have time try and have a drink at the bar when the sun sets. The way the dimming light hits the cityscape is absolutely beautiful and it’s the perfect opportunity to capture a view of the city skyline that will  simply take your breath away.

Elsewhere, Mezzaluna offers a breathtaking 180-degree view of the city and river accompanied with masterly made culinary creations from Thomas and Mathias Suhrung.  The twin brothers bring their Michelin star know how to the restaurant. Adding a touch of European flair with Asian influences to the menu. The prices are high, but the menu is worth it you’re looking to splurge.  You can also dine at the poolside from Cafe Mozu which serves up delectable dishes of the Western, Lebanese, India and Thai persuasion prepared  by chefs from each region.

Facilities

The hotel has many facilities to suit your needs including a state of the art gym overlooking an open-air swimming pool. However the pool only get a couple hours of sun in the morning, so if you want to tan get there early.

Why go

To experience a five-star hotel that epitomizes luxury accommodation in Bangkok with a panorama to die for! We cannot recommend the lebua enough.  If you love luxury, then you will love this hotel. You will leave the Lebua with wonderful memories and magnificent photos.

Address:  1055 Silom Road Bangrak, Bangkok 10500
Website: www.lebua.com

IDEAL stayed at the hotel as a guest

 

RESTAURANT REVIEW OF BLACKHOUSE: THE GRILL ON THE MARKET, SMITHFIELD – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR CARNIVORES

RESTAURANT REVIEW OF BLACKHOUSE: THE GRILL ON THE MARKET

Writ large and with clarity on the wall of The Grill on The Market is “Solid & honest. Simply proper food”.

With a summary of such brevity and precision, there seems little point in writing a full review. The restaurant themselves have managed it in 5 words and an ampersand. Without doubt, this place is all about the meat, the quality of the sourcing and cooking with respect the ingredients deserve. In many ways, no more need be said. However…

IDEA

A no nonsense approach to meat, and beef specifically, leads the press release to bill The Blackhouse as a ‘homage to the beautiful bovine’. True to their prose, this is precisely where the restaurant shines. Beef is the front-page feature and cooked with eloquence.

LOCATION

Overlooking Smithfield meat traders, the market looms up outside the window, peering in (the pathetic fallacy is not lost on us) as a reminder of the origins of your dinner.  Interestingly, where the restaurant now sits was once the site of the original market butchery in the 10th century, and they don’t let you forget it. 

ATMOSPHERE

Although the area felt fairly deserted at night – the market is early business and even the pubs open at 6am – the restaurant itself was heaving.

The place is buzzy. Seriously buzzy. When we arrive, at 8, it’s full to the brim, and we’re informed that it’s just the same at lunchtime. They must be doing something right, and the validation of chatter and laughter indicates good times are ahead.

The clientele is mix of office workers, downing tools and pints after a long day, and the now obligatory, tattooed and bearded, hipsters. It wouldn’t be East London without both.

Admirable in synergetic terms, the decor is also meaty. Seats of ox-blood red; thick wood tables like chopping blocks; chill cabinets showing off cuts of meat…they’ve really gone all out to proverbially whet the appetite through interior design.

A ubiquitous, lengthy zinc top bar and bare brick walls once again reminds us of our proximity to Shoreditch, though a pianist incongruously playing Leonard Cohen is a welcome change from Grimes and grime.

RESTAURANT REVIEW OF BLACKHOUSE: THE GRILL ON THE MARKET

FOOD

Straight up we are asked if we’d like to “try the Big Boy”. I briefly wonder if all the objectified, hanging meat is a euphemism and we’ve walked into somewhere far less salubrious than a restaurant.

On further enquiry it emerged that this is a 1kg steak. We pass on this, eager to try a greater variety of offerings. The Butchers Block selection is appealing, picked out from the chill cabinet at your discretion and cut off at table as a bit of theatre. Staying on menu, the aged Galician cow, notable for its deep, pungent taste, delivers everything it should.

RESTAURANT REVIEW OF BLACKHOUSE: THE GRILL ON THE MARKET

Light starters seem a necessity in anticipation of the main event, with a crab & avocado salad clean and tasty, heightened by piques of fresh lime.  A beetroot and goat’s cheese tart is excellent; a fail safe combination enhanced by delicate pastry. I briefly wonder if this starter would work with the headlining act.

For those not on a cattle crusade, the menu has fish and vegetarian options, which looked well-thought out. Desserts continue this theme, seeming far more than just an afterthought. Whilst difficult to shoehorn beef into the sweets section, there is still intrigue in the afters. A coconut Bakewell tart with salted caramel is a fine balancing act, opposing factions counteracting one another assertively but from a place of peace. A cheese board served with Eccles cake looked interesting and English – a definite for those who have not yet had their savoury sated.

DRINK

There is a capable wine list, reasonably priced from £19 to £75. In London, a bottle for 19 is superb value. We decide to honour the Galician beef (actually from England but Galician cattle) with a Bierzo wine (also from North West Spain). It elegantly complements the depth of the meat.

A varied cocktail list is also very welcome indeed – we recommend trying their Smokey Old Fashioned. A lack of craft beers is surprising – we couldn’t imagine anything suiting the vibe more perfectly.

MUST TRY

Without doubt, the aged Galician cow will have us coming back for more – it took to the bull ring, went mano a mano with a regular steak and won, hooves down. An old trope oft milked, but this was truly melt in the mouth. Utterly exquisite.

RESTAURANT REVIEW OF BLACKHOUSE: THE GRILL ON THE MARKET

WHY GO

Go with a group of (meat loving) friends after work  Although not sharing plates in the traditional sense, this is a great place for conviviality and good vibes and no-one is going to take down the Big Boy alone.  The food more than matches the atmosphere, and the drinks are both reasonable and of high quality. All in all, Blackhouse is a real winner in our book.

Website: blackhouse.uk.com

IDEAL dined at the restaurant as a guest

SALMON & SEA BASS CEVICHE – IDEAL FOR A TASTY AND TANGY TREAT

SALMON & SEA BASS CEVICHE 1

A tangy and tasty recipe for Salmon & Sea Bass Ceviche, brought to you by Manomasa Tortilla Chips

A great fresh tasting summery canapé tossed with a citrus, coriander and chilli dressing, delicious served on crisp spicy tortillas. Simply spoon the shredded lettuce and ceviche on to 4 serving plates with the tortillas on the side.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Chill: 1 hour

Serves 4-6

Ingredients

200g (7oz) or 2 sea bass fillets, skinned, pin boned and diced

300g (2oz) or 2 trout fillets, skinned, pin boned and diced

2 limes, grated rind and juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 red grapefruit

1 red chilli, halved, deseeded, finely chopped

1 small red onion, halved, thinly sliced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

4 tablespoons fresh chopped coriander leaves

160g pack of Manomasa Chipotle and Lime Tortilla Chips

2 little gem lettuces, finely shredded

Method

  • Add the diced sea bass and trout to a shallow china or glass dish. Sprinkle with the lime rind then drizzle over the lime juice and oil.
  • Cut a slice off the top and bottom of each grapefruit then cut the rest of the peel and pith away with a small serrated knife. Cut between the membrane to release the segments then squeeze the juice from the membrane over the fish. Roughly chop the segments then add to the fish with the  chilli and onion. Season with salt and pepper and gently stir together.
  • Cover with clingfilm and chill in the fridge for about 1 hour or until the sea bass is bright white and the trout an opaque pink or it looks ‘cooked’.
  • Sprinkle the chopped coriander over the ceviche and stir together gently. Allow to come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  • Arrange the tortillas on a large platter, sprinkle a little lettuce on the top of each then spoon over the ceviche. Serve immediately or the tortilla chips will soften, with extra lime wedges and a little coarse sea salt if liked.

Cook’s Tip

As the fish is pickled with the lime juice rather than cooked, make sure to buy the freshest fish that you can and to make and eat this dish on the day that you buy the fish.

The use of Manomasa’s adventurous flavours including Chipotle and LimeWhite Cheddar & the brand new Tomatillo Salsa are ideal for making quick and easy canapés, and are destined to show off the host’s culinary skills this summer.  Manomasa is available from Ocado (RRP: £1.99 per 160g pack).

THE IDEAL CITY GUIDE: 24 HOURS IN EDINBURGH’S WEST END – ONE OF THE CITY’S BEST KEPT SECRETS

how to spend 24 hours in Edinburgh's west end

Just a few minutes’ walk from Princes Street, you’ll find the cobbled Georgian streets of the West End. With charming architecture, colourful shop fronts and a laid-back bohemian vibe, this area is one of Edinburgh’s best kept secrets – that is until now.

If you’re in the city, the West End should definitely be on your bucket list of places to visit. In fact, we think you should spend a whole day here. From Boutique shops to fabulous delicatessens, art galleries, trendy wine bars and unique dining experiences that naturally come with a Scottish twist, the West End has it all. Here’s our guide on how to spend 24 hours in Edinburgh’s West End.

10pm-9am Haymarket Hub

Stay overnight at the new Haymarket Hub. This place is brilliantly located for trips to Edinburgh as it’s opposite the train station and on the tram and bus route from the airport. Also, it’s the first hotel in Scotland to have ‘Handy’ phones which help you to keep in touch and navigate your way around the city – perfect if you’re prone to getting lost like us! 

9am-10am The Westroom

Bright and airy, breakfast at The Westroom will be the perfect start to your day. The food here doesn’t disappoint and the kitchen serves up brilliant brunches at the weekend. There is something for everyone and every appetite at The Westroom. Think modern classics like avo and eggs on toasted sourdough to the full Scottish breakfast which of course includes haggis. If you like starting the day with something sweet try the eggy bread, served with rashers of bacon and lashing of maple syrup, it’s absolutely delicious. They do a blooming lovely spicy Bloody Mary too. If you can’t get a table at The Westroom, we’re also huge fans of the breakfasts at Milk and Loudons

how to spend 24 hours in Edinburgh's west endImage source

10am-12am The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

A twenty minute walk from The Westroom, passing some of Edinburgh’s most spectacular architecture and over the Water of Leith, takes you to two impressive galleries that make up the National Gallery of Modern Art. Here you can see works by Dali, Picasso, Warhol and Bacon. The walk to this museum and the exhibitions on offer will definitely satisfy the culture vulture within. 

12.00pm-1.30pm Exploring the West End’s boutiques

Cobbled Georgian William Street is home to some of Edinburgh’s best boutiques and independent shops including Odyssey Boutique. Named as one of the UK’s Most Stylish Boutiques by Stylist Online, this lingerie and swimwear store is a must visit for fashionistas. Make sure you get a private lingerie fitting with owner Sarah Connelly who, according to ‘The Lingerie Power List 2017’, is one of the most influential people in lingerie retail. Or check out Just g, Frontiers  Man & Woman and  Studio One which are also fabulous. If you’re into antiques there are some great stores in the area including James Ness & Son and Goodwins Antiques which both sell stunning pieces of antique jewellery.

how to spend 24 hours in Edinburgh's west end

1.30pm-2.30pm Lunch

Grab a soup, salad or a sandwich for a good cause at Social Bite on Shandwick Place – this social enterprise café which is staffed by homeless people and runs a pay it forward scheme is loved by George Clooney and Leonardo di Caprio, who have both paid it a visit on trips to the city. 

2.30 – 3.30pm Time to relax

The West End is home to some great urban spas, which are perfect for taking a little time out to relax and have a bit of a pamper. There’s Breathworks for reiki and massage, or a relaxing facial at Sleeping Beauty Salon, winner of the Herald Look Awards 2016 for Beauty Salon of the Year. 

3.30pm – 4.30pm Gin Discovery Tour

The Edinburgh Gin distillery is regularly ranked one of the top 20 visitor attractions in Edinburgh on Tripadvisor and is a must visit when in the West End. Learn the story behind Edinburgh Gin and discover how it’s distilled. Go on an intimate tour of the distillery; taking in Edinburgh’s distilling past in the exhibition area, then experience up close in the still room how it’s made today using the two copper stills. The tour includes an Edinburgh gin and tonic or a miniature bottle of Edinburgh Gin to take home. For only a tenner this experience is a steal. 

how to spend 24 hours in Edinburgh's west end

4.30pm – 5.30pm Afternoon Tea time

No trip to the West End is complete without paying a visit to Patissier Maxime for their amazing cakes. Offering a true taste of France, this little gem sells the best sweet treats in Edinburgh. No joke. 

5.30pm – 6.30pm Preen and Polish time

Don’t waste anytime by going home to get ready before heading out on the town. Instead, have a quick blow dry at the legendary flagship Charlie Miller salon on Stafford Street. If you’re travelling with your man, he can have a quick beard trim at Ruffians whilst you get your locks done. You can assure him that he’ll probably have the best shave of his life here – Ruffians has loads of rave reviews online and is even loved by The New York Times. 

how to spend 24 hours in Edinburgh's west end

6.30pm – 7.30pm Pre-dinner cocktails

No city break is complete without pre-dinner cocktails and we’ve found just the place. Shortlisted for Bar of the Year 2017 by Food & Travel Magazine, The Voyage of Buck is home to Patron Perfectionist 2017 Mike McGinty so you’re guaranteed an excellent aperitif. This exciting concept bar features original cocktails inspired by cities around the world, including Havana, Paris, Taipei and Cairo. However, you’re in Edinburgh so we recommend staying true to the city and ordering a triple malt Scotch whisky or a whisky sour before letting the drinks menu lead your further afield. 

how to spend 24 hours in Edinburgh's west end

7.30pm – 9.30pm Dinner

Serving up great brasserie style food with an emphasis on locally-sourced Scottish produce, Otro is the new place in town. The restaurant is housed in a beautiful Georgian terrace and the decor of this place is simply stunning. If you are looking to push the boat out a bit then head to The Galvin’s restaurant The Pompadour at The Waldorf Astoria – this is fine dining at its best from Head Chef Dan Ashmore, with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle from the dining room to boot. 

how to spend 24 hours in Edinburgh's west end

9.30pm Post dinner drinks ‘til late

A few doors away from The Waldorf Astoria is Ghillie Dhu  which offers live Scottish music every night until 3am. When you are there its worth trying the whisky flight. From highland to lowland, you can choose three whiskies from the menu to enjoy. If you’re unsure of which ones to order, just ask one of their whisky experts to help. 

If you’re more a cocktail than a whisky lover then head to Sygn or Indigo Yard – both great for a party and open until 1am.

3 IDEAL CITIES FOR A WEEKEND BREAK IN THE UK

More and more people are swapping the beaches for the big cities to captivate the culture and nightlife that are have to offer. There are hundreds of cities to choose from, so below we have picked out three of the best ones to explore right now.

London

With a population of over eight million people, London is one of the most famous cities in the world. It’s exciting and full of so many great things to do. So, if a city break is just what you fancy then London is highly recommended. There are a number of different places for you to stay depending on your budget and what you want to explore. Aside from your usual things to do in London such as the London Eye, Big Ben, Hyde Park and the Tower of London, there are lots of other cultural attractions that are worth visiting.

Check out one of the museums the city has to offer such as the British Museum – it’s free! If you’re a fan of the Royal Family check out Buckingham Palace and see the guards, and pay a visit to Westminster Abbey too. Or why not check out a theatre show? TodayTix have hundreds of tickets available, including last-minute ones. The things to do in London are never ending, so prepare to indulge yourself in history and discover things about the city that you never knew before. And, with a big variety of travel guide books and mobile apps, sightseeing in London has never been easier. If you want to know the best restaurants to go to, the best bars, or just need some tips on how to use the underground tube, check out our London guides.

Read: 5 iconic places first timers should visit in Central London

Manchester

Manchester is another city that is constantly bursting with energy. From international festivals, football matches or musical performances across many different venues, small and large, it’s certainly an exciting place to visit. Manchester is the place to be with new bars and restaurants opening weekly. It’s the sort of place that – no matter how times you visit -there will always be something new to see. Manchester will be like no place you’ve ever been before as modernity and heritage blend together with a 21th century mixture of night life and politics throw in. And, if you’re planning a trip away with the kids, Manchester has loads to offer. Pay a visit to the Museum of Science and Industry, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and Play Factore. If this sounds like the perfect place for you, check out booking.com to find a hotel that suits you.

Edinburgh

A vibrant city full of history and festivals throughout the year, Edinburgh is the romantic capital of Scotland and is full of tourists each and every month. As the team at Edinburgh Luxury Stays recommend, you can take a walk around the the medieval Old Town or stroll round the more-recent Georgian Style New Town. The easiest way to get round Edinburgh is via the bus, but if you’re willing to walk, you’ll see a great deal more.

There are hidden courtyards, beautiful gardens and architectural details within the buildings to see, and you’ll certainly take them in if you see them on foot. Everywhere you, something will grab your attention. Be sure to check out Edinburgh Castle and the extinct volcano located in Holyrood Park. If you’re stuck for somewhere to eat whilst in Edinburgh, OpenTable suggest:

  • Badger & Co
  • Copper Blossom
  • The Queens Arms
  • Sygn
  • Galvin Brasserie De Luxe

So, with that endorsement ringing in your ears with more volume than a set of bagpipes, here are our 5 reasons why Edinburgh is the IDEAL U.K travel destination.

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO THE GROWTH OF THE POP-UP AND STREET FOOD INDUSTRY

Supper clubs, pop-up restaurants and street food stalls have taken the industry by storm. We’ve got the proof to back that statement up. Eventbrite found that the number of food and drink events hosted on its platform is increasing each year, and most of these are pop-ups with a whopping 82 per cent growth. 

There’s so many reasons why people in the food industry have chosen to steer away from brick and mortar establishments, with the help of one UK’s leading LPG suppliers, Flogas, we explore why.

Minimal Investment

The low-cost of opening up a pop-up/streetfood business is attractive, so more people are doing it. The cost of opening a traditional restaurant can easily be over £300,000, However, if you open up a pop-up, you don’t need a particularly large investment to get your business off the ground. According to the hub, a small second hand catering trailer or market stall could be acquired for under £5,000. Also a report by the Nationwide Caterers Association acknowledges that a fully equipped market stall can be bought for around £3,000 and a food truck for an estimated £10,000. 

People Are Willing to Pay More

To shed light on just how popular pop-up events have become, Eventbrite conducted a survey involving more than 2,000 people who had headed along to such dining experiences in the past. The survey found most people belief that it’s OK to pay more money for receiving a unique dining experience. Around half of respondents also said that they would be happy to pay more for a meal from the exact same menu at a pop-up event where chef interaction is involved, as opposed to one served in a regular restaurant.

A Chance to Be You

The pop-up model provides an ideal way for chefs to be creative, experiment and be themselves. Pop-up creator Melissa King says “There are so many chefs out there — they have their restaurants, their day jobs, but they’re looking for something more. That’s what the pop-up culture offers them. They are able to take over someone’s space for only a few hours and convert it into their own identity. It’s not just about the food, it’s about creating a memorable experience for the guests.”

People Value Unique Experiences

People are attracted to things that are perceived as underground or exclusive. According to Eventbrite, 84 per cent of those going to a pop-up want a unique theme or menu. This was followed by events held at memorable location (76 per cent) and occasions that promised to be a one-of-a-kind experience (74 per cent).

Image source: giphy.com

6 IDEAL WAYS TO USE FASHION TO INCREASE BODY CONFIDENCE

You can spot a confident woman from a mile away – she’ll be carrying herself a certain way and looking comfortable in her own skin. While it is true that confidence about your body and all its flaws can only come from within, there is one thing which can instantly boost your self-image – fashion.

Have you ever wondered why your favourite jacket or well-loved pair of heels can make you feel sexy, happy and confident, while slipping into out-of-style clothes or fashion pieces can increase your self-doubt? This is because certain accessories and clothes have the power to instantly make you feel more comfortable in your skin, thereby increasing your body confidence and uplifting your mood.

While it is important to change our mind-set and stop viewing our imperfections and flaws as something to be ashamed of, there are certain tips and techniques you can adopt to appear more confident instantly. The first tip involves adding certain fashion items and accessories to your wardrobe.

Here is a list of 6 fashion pieces you can use to increase your body confidence.

A go-to dress

A go-to dress does not necessarily mean a fancy ball gown – this could be anything from a simple dress-shirt to a summer dress that makes you feel good about yourself. The right type of dress for your body shape can make you look smart and elegant, while flattering your body shape and hiding that bit of extra fat. When you look good, you will also automatically feel good about yourself. The best part of having a go-to dress is that you can pair it with trendy or formal accessories depending on the occasion and repeat it as many times as you want. Just remember to choose a classic silhouette which can be easily paired with different items.

Comfortable yet sexy heels

Wearing heels can give us an instant boost and make us appear taller and more confident. For shorter women, heels can be a blessing– they can make their legs appear longer and more toned while taller women can look classy and elegant. However, make sure that your heels are comfortable as you might have to wear them for hours. Uncomfortable heels can cause painful welts or blisters and make your feet hurt.

Tights

We’ve already spoken about how lingerie can make you feel more confident here. Similarly, tights are sexy and can instantly boost your confidence and make you feel more feminine. While these fashion items cannot be worn to the office, at least without inciting a few riots, you can wear them for a romantic evening at home or when going out. There is just something innately sexy and appealing about wearing open crotch tights that can make you feel confident about yourself and your body.

sunglasses

A pair of classy sunglasses which suit the shape of your face can instantly make you appear more trendy and fashionable. Every woman should own at least one pair of statement sun glasses as these can make you appear sexy and confident.

Good fitting denims

From high waisted to low waisted denims, you simply cannot go wrong with jeans. There are so many different cuts that you are sure to find one that not only flatters your figure, but is also comfortable to wear. A good pair of jeans can be paired with formal blouses or t-shirts. These tend to make the most out of your curves and give your butt an extra lift. This can make you feel good about yourself and confident about your appearance.

Structured blazers

Structured blazers with clean lines can be paired with any outfit and can significantly uplift your look. These can be paired with dresses or denims depending on the occasion and can elevate your style, making you appear instantly trendy and fashionable. Pair it with a white silky blouse for an elegant and formal look or throw a jacket over your printed t-shirt. What’s more, these can also hide tummy folds or arm fat successfully while making you look taller and more confident.

While there are numerous other fashion pieces which can make you look sexy, feminine and classy, these 6 fashion items are guaranteed to boost your confidence and body image. If you are unsure of suitable cuts and styles, you can always speak to a stylist or visit reputable sellers for your next purchase. Just remember – when you look good, you will also automatically feel good about yourself.

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR CHICKEN AND CHORIZO SALAD

This mouth-watering chicken and chorizo salad, served with a delicious dressing of Hellmann’s Mayonnaise and wine vinegar is ideal for a healthy and hearty salad.

Serves  4

PREP TIME – 40 min

COOK TIME – 10 min

Recipe ingredients

4  chicken breasts

40g chorizo

70g rocket

250g cherry tomatoes

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

4 tablespoons tarragon

1 clove garlic

For the dressing:

4 dollops* Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

Pepper

Recipe steps

1- Mix together the oil, vinegar, crushed garlic and tarragon.

2- Stir in the chicken breast chunks and marinade for 30 minutes.

3- Preheat the BBQ or the grill. Thread the marinated chicken and chorizo slices onto pre-soaked wooden skewers and BBQ or grill for around 10 minutes, or until cooked.

4- Meanwhile mix the rocket and tomatoes to form a salad.

5- Mix the mayonnaise with the vinegar and season with pepper, gently stirring through the salad.

6- Remove the chicken and chorizo from the skewers and serve scattered over the salad.

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR LENTIL, ROASTED BEETROOT & PARSLEY SALAD

This is a wholesome and hearty lentil, roasted beetroot & parsley salad from The Fresh Herb Company, the UK’s leading producer of fresh herbs,  is perfect for the colder months. Parsley has a fresh, grassy taste and adds a new dimension to the flavour.

Preparation & Cooking Times
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes

Serves 2

Ingredients

100g dried Puy lentils
2 raw whole beetroot, scrubbed and cut into wedges (250g)
2 tbsp olive oil
200g baby plum tomatoes
2 tsp white wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp creamed horseradish sauce
25g fresh parsley from a living pot, roughly chopped

Method

Preheat the oven to 200 C, gas mark 6.

Cook the lentils in boiling water for 25-30 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Meanwhile, place the beetroot in a roasting tin and toss in 1 tbsp oil. Roast for 15 minutes. Add the tomatoes to the beetroot and roast for 10 minutes. Mix into the lentils.

Whisk the remaining oil, vinegar, Dijon and horseradish sauce together and toss into the salad with the parsley. Season to taste.

Cook’s Tip

For an even quicker option, try replacing dried Puy lentils with ready to use ones and remember the stalks are just as tasty as the leaves so don’t waste them.

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR ROAST BEETROOT, WALNUT & GRAPEFRUIT SALAD WITH GOAT’S CHEESE

Sweet, earthy beetroot and tangy goats’ cheese are a classic combination. Buttery baby leaf spinach, fiery rocket and spicy watercress help cut through the goat’s cheese and highlight the sweetness of the beetroot.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 20-25 minutes

Serves 4

 Ingredients 

1 bunch beetroot, trimmed and cut into wedges (450g)

3 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 pink grapefruit

1 bag Watercress, Rocket & Spinach salad, approx. 100g (140g)

50g walnut pieces, toasted

2 x 100g packs Capricorn Goat’s cheese, halved

Method

Preheat the oven to 200oC, gas mark 6.

Place the beetroot on a baking tray and toss in 1 tbsp each oil and vinegar, season and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.

Meanwhile, segment the grapefruit by removing all the pith, saving any juice.  Whisk the juice with the remaining oil and vinegar, season.

Toss the Watercress, Rocket and Spinach salad with the beetroot, grapefruit segments and walnuts. Toss in the dressing.

Place the cheese, cut side up under a preheated grill for 3-4 minutes until golden and place on top of the salad to serve.

Cooks tip

Try grilling Halloumi cheese instead of goat’s cheese for variation.

See www.makemoreofsalad for more recipes and information.

10 IDEAL ANDROID ACCESSORIES EVERY TRAVELER NEEDS

10 IDEAL ANDROID ACCESSORIES EVERY TRAVELER NEEDS

Are you thinking of traveling? Do you have the accessories for you Android phone to get the most from it on your holiday? Vacations are fun but getting to your destination and losing the comfort of home is a drag. You will have to keep yourself entertained. There are plenty of gadgets you might want to take with your when traveling that will ensure you can get the most from that little computer in your pocket. Not only do they enhance the usability of your smartphone but will ensure your holiday goes off without a hitch.

Take a look at the best Android phone accessories for you next vacation.

Touch Screen Friendly Gloves

A great accessory for travelers is a pair of touchscreen friendly gloves. If you are traveling to colder climates then using your Android phone without freezing your fingers is impossible. What comes in handy for these vacations is the touch screen friendly gloves, perfect for checking your messages or taking selfies while enjoying the slopes at Whistler or snapping pics of the Mont Blanc Massif from Courmayeur.

It is one of the best inventions for using Android phones in the cold and will enable you to use your phone without losing your hands to winter’s bite.

Portable Power Bank

Another top phone accessory is the portable charger. There is nothing worse than a low battery when you are in a new place. If you have a portable charger you can easily charge your phone on the go. The best portable chargers will have over 10,000mAh of battery reserves. This should be capable of charging your phone from 0 to 100% several times over. Many will have 2 USB ports so you can charge 2 devices at a time.  For those going to a sunny location or who want to do their bit for nature then a power bank with solar panel let you recharge in remote spots without the need for a power socket, just so long as the sun stays out.

Selfie Stick

Tired of straining your arms to get you, your mates and the landscape into a single shot?  

When you are traveling you want to capture the stunning locations and scenic views. With the help of a selfie stick, you can see the bigger picture more easily. They allow you to take perfect selfies with just a click and no stretching is required.  What is more telescopic stick folds down to fit in your day pack, purse or pocket with ease. These cell phone accessories cater well to travelers who want to use their phone as a dedicated camera. The selfie stick can easily fit almost any size iOS or Android phone with fully adjustable spring loaded bracket.

Now you don’t need to pester passersby to snap a photo for you and can be sure to fit everyone and everything in the frame.

Headphones

One of the accessories that are a must on your travel list is a pair of Bluetooth wireless headphones. There are plenty of Bluetooth headphones that are available on the market. The best headphones that you will find don’t have to cost a fortune, there are plenty of great headphones for under $50. They offer the a good sound range and should feature noise canceling. If you are traveling and spending a lot of time on trains or planes, this is your new best friend as you can block out the ambient noise of infants crying or people snoring and chill on those long trips.  The advantage of having no wires means they won’t get tangled when stuffed in your pocket and offer greater freedom of movement without being tethered to your phone.

Camera Lenses

10 IDEAL ANDROID ACCESSORIES EVERY TRAVELER NEEDS

The best camera is the one you have with you. As the technology has improved, the cameras on phones have changed the way we take photos. If you want to get even better photos on your vacation without carrying a chunky DSLR around then a camera lens is just the ticket.

A 3-in-1 smartphone lens accessory is a good option. It adds versatility to your phone photography. The lenses come with 3 lenses that have a durable plastic clip. This fits on your phone’s camera securely. The lenses offer wide angle fish eye views, greater magnifications and also have a macro lens so you can capture the smallest details.  Now you will be able to put that camera on your phone to good use and get professional shots of those magical holiday moments.

Bluetooth Smart Watches

10 IDEAL ANDROID ACCESSORIES EVERY TRAVELER NEEDS

A Bluetooth smart watch is the perfect partner for your phone that frees up your hands and keeps you informed.  Not only do you have the time, date and other regular watch functions but you can access a range of apps on your phone with Bluetooth partner functions. This means you’ll get social media and SMS alerts relayed to your wrist and will even be able to take and make calls without taking your phone out of your pocket.

Most smart watches also come with fitness and movement trackers. This will let you see how many miles you clocked up strolling around the sights in Barcelona or struggling through the bustling crowds of Tokyo.  You can measure your heart rate as you trek up Mt Fuji or ensure you get a good night’s rest before a trekking the Great Wall. Making it easier to keep connected and keep an eye on your exercise the Bluetooth smart watches are a useful accessory the adventurous traveler who wants everything easy to get at on their wrist.  

Selfi Drone

If you want to take your selfies to the next level then a selfie drone will certainly do that. These foldable pocket size drones are light weight and can be controlled directly form an iOS or Android Phone app.

With build in cameras they can record great videos or snap wide shots of your best holiday locations. The more advance versions bring 4K video recording and even have a follow me target tracking mode. Great for recording your adventures and stunning scenery such as the view from Half Dome in Yosemite or the sunrise among the karts in Ha Long Bay.  You will be the envy of your friends when they see your uploaded videos of stunning panoramic vistas from your travels.

Bluetooth Speaker

10 IDEAL ANDROID ACCESSORIES EVERY TRAVELER NEEDS

Think impromptu pool or tropical beach party and the first thing that comes tom mind is cool tunes.  While a pair of headphones lets you listen to great music only a Bluetooth speaker has the power to let you share your tracks.

A great way to make new friends and liven up any venue a Bluetooth speaker is a must for many travelers especially if they like to party. You can even get water resistant and dust proof ones that will be ideal for the beach.  So if you’re heading to Ibiza or the full moon party in Koh Phangan grab a Bluetooth speaker and turn that all night dance into a 24 hr party adventure.

Universal Power Adapter

If you’re traveling abroad then chances are you destination will use a different type plug socket than those you have at home. A Universal adapter will let you use the power sockets in every region be it the Americas, Asia, Africa, Europe or the UK.  A much required accessory for keeping your gadgets – especially your phone – powered up. Having one adapter that works everywhere is better than needing separate adapters for each region helps you keep the weight down on your trips.  If you have multiple electronics packed, and who doesn’t,  you may want to look for one with a 4 gang deck or sockets. Now you can use recharger you Bluetooth speaker,  top up the power to your phone and power bank as well as make use of your hair straighteners  all at the same time.

Phone Case

If you don’t already have one then this is a prime piece of kit you should invest in before going on your hols. Whether you opt for a rugged phone case to just a simple hard shell this phone accessory will keep you beloved phone and all its content safe.  If you are constantly on your phone then opting for a phone case with built in battery that serves as a power bank would be a wise choice. Alternatively those into water sports should get a full sealed IP rated waterproof case to guarantee their phone is safe even when rafting down a river or kayaking in the ocean.

Armed with these phone accessories you will be ready to take on the world. They will ensure you are well equipped to get the most from your phone on every trip no matter where your adventures take you or for how long you travel. If you have any other smartphone accessories must haves feel free to let us know in the comments. Happy travels and stay safe!