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8 IDEAL HERBS FOR AUTUMN/WINTER DISHES

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8 IDEAL HERBS FOR AUTUMN/WINTER DISHES

When it comes to fresh herbs, shoppers are really spoilt for choice. There are a host of herbs to choose from, each with their own individual flavour, aroma and appearance. They can all make a real difference to so many different dishes and the great news is that you don’t need to be a chef to make the most of this kitchen essential.

Jekka McVicar  who widely recognised as one of the country’s foremost experts on herbs and creator of Jamie Oliver’s herb garden shares her favourite herbs to cook with in the autumn and winter.

Sage

Sage’s deep flavour is well suited to more ‘substantial’ winter dishes, so it’s perfect for stews, slow cook dishes and stuffings of course! However one of my favourite ways to enjoy it is fresh pasta tossed in a sage butter. You can also fry the leaves to make a deliciously different garnish.    

Basil

Basil’s fabulous fragrance and peppery, spicy flavour complements so many foods, both savoury and sweet. It is a member of the mint family, which when used in cooking helps stimulate digestion and is a beneficial antioxidant. I use it liberally in dishes from pasta and custards, to teas, salads and sauces. It’s also great with chocolate. Tear basil rather than cutting with a knife as this can make it discolour. Basil is a good friend to have in the kitchen because it also repels flies!

Chives

Chives are a member of the onion family and have a mild onion flavour which combines well with a huge range of dishes, making it practically indispensable in the kitchen. It is one of the most ancient herbs with records of its existence and use dating back to 3,000 BC. I like to use freshly snipped chives in omelettes, scrambled eggs, salads and add to soured cream as a filling for jacket potatoes. Its leaves are also good sprinkled on soup or on grilled meat. Add chives towards the end of cooking because if they are cooked for too long they lose their delicious onion flavour and become bitter.

Coriander

Coriander is a love or hate it herb but I adore it. It was brought to Northern Europe by the Romans, who combining it with cumin and vinegar, rubbed it into meat as a preservative. It partners really well with spices, garlic, ginger and chilli. Many people just use the leaves but the stalks are full of flavour. You can make a great base for curries by combining coriander stalks, chilli, onion and garlic and blending with a hand processor.

Parsley

Parsley is one of the most widely used herbs throughout the world and has been popular since records began. It’s much more than a garnish and it’s fresh, grassy flavour can really lift and enhance food, particularly more subtle flavoured dishes. It’s great with mushrooms, sauces and soups. As with coriander, don’t discard the stems as they are packed full of flavour.

Mint

Mint’s cool and clean flavour can do much for sweet and savoury dishes alike, whether mixed in with a fruit salad, with couscous or as a classic mint sauce. Freshly picked mint leaves make a simple, refreshing mint tea and are a stunning way to finish cakes. It is also perfect with new potatoes and really brings out their flavour. It also has a rich history, one of my favourite stories is that the ancient Greeks believed that a wreath of mint placed near your head could exorcise an impending hangover!

Rosemary

Rosemary is one of the most versatile and useful herbs in the kitchen, it is also associated with love, friendship and remembrance. It’s highly aromatic and its essential oils not only flavour food but help tenderise meat.  Marinating lamb with chopped rosemary or adding sprigs when roasting vegetables are just a couple of the many ways to use a pot of fresh rosemary. It’s also great in bread.

Thyme

Thyme is a strong, robust flavoured herb with small leaves and a favourite with many chefs. It radiates warmth and sunlight and when used in cooking fills the kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma. Use the leaves and young stems of living thyme to add flavour to a host of dishes from vegetables such as carrots through to meat and poultry.  Try rolling it into pastry, pizza or bread dough to add another dimension to your meal.

 

 

5 IDEAL REASONS TO EAT AT CROCKER’S FOLLY IN ST JOHNS WOOD THIS WEEK

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5 IDEAL REASONS TO EAT AT CROCKER’S FOLLY IN ST JOHNS WOOD THIS WEEK

If you haven’t been to the stunning Grade II listed Crocker’s Folly in St John’s Wood, north west London, it’s about time you did. Especially since owners, Maroush Group, have gone back to their roots with a brand new menu that embraces the very best of Lebanese cuisine. Here’s 5 ideal reasons to eat there this week:

50% off food

To celebrate  the new menu, there’s 50% off food from 14th – 31st August, lunch and dinner, by reservation only via www.crockersfolly.com or telephone, 020 7289 9898. The 50% discount applies to food only when ordering from the a la carte menu

Bar Bites

Tired of scotch eggs, sausage rolls, pork pies and your other ubiquitous bar snacks? Then you’ll be thrilled with the bar bites menu here. It features lots of small dishes with a Lebanese twist that are perfect for sharing. Try the spicy Lebanese sausages sautéed in lemon and tomato sauce; mini shawarma bites; and quinoa tabbouleh.

Mezza

Find a fantastic array of mezza, sharing platters and grilled meats from the Josper on the menu, as well as artisan breads and pastries from the in-house bakery. Traditional favourites such as melt-in-the-mouth falafel and homemade hummus sit alongside signatures like Sheikh al Mehshi, aubergine filled with minced lamb, pine nuts and onion baked in tomato sauce; and kastaleta veal cutlet cooked on the Josper.

Baked Lebanese pastries

The baked Lebanese pastries, which come with a variety of fillings including minced lamb, spinach or halloumi, are ridiculously delicious.

Contemporary Cocktails

The bar, previously a decadent Victorian gin palace, serves contemporary cocktails with a Middle Eastern twist and include the Julep Baklava – whiskey blended with pistachios and brown sugar. You can also try many excellent Lebanese wines at Crocker’s Folly,

 

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO CREATE A LUXURIOUS FAMILY LIVING ROOM

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5 IDEAL WAYS TO CREATE A LUXURIOUS FAMILY LIVING ROOM

When you decide to start a family, there can be a lot of change, including how you decorate, and designate, your home. While designing an interior around your children might conjure up images of robust, practical furniture and plastic toy boxes in every corner, it doesn’t have to be this way. It’s still possible to create a beautiful, luxurious home that is completely child-friendly.

With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at the living room — the hub of your home, where you will spend most of your family time together. A few simple design choices can maintain the stylish look that you loved before the kids came along while making things more child-orientated. Here are our five IDEAL ways to create a luxurious family living room.

INVEST IN AN ELEGANT BUT HARDWEARING SOFA

We’ll start with the item of furniture you’ll probably use the most — your sofa. Just because you’ve got children doesn’t mean you need to encase your cushions in protective covers — by making a smart buying choice, you can own one that can stand up to the rigours of family life.

Leather is a great choice for your upholstery for its hardwearing and easy-to-clean properties — plus it looks fantastic, especially if it is a luxury leather that ages beautifully. Choose a classic design — such as one of these Chesterfield sofas from Timeless Chesterfields — for a look that won’t go out of style. These particular pieces are handmade with strong beech frames, sturdy suspension, and premium leather so you can be sure they will withstand daily use by your family.

WOOL RUGS ARE NATURALLY BRILLIANT

An area rug is a great way of adding something extra special to your space. You can use a rug to add more colour or make a statement, as well as softening the look of a coffee table by positioning it beneath, giving you plenty of options. It can, however, be tough to pick a material that is family-friendly if you’re not in the know.

In our opinion, you won’t find a better material than natural wool for a family living room rug. Wool has many inherent characteristics that make it an obvious choice, such as its resistance to stains, its resilience to wear and tear, and the fact that it is hypoallergenic. Modern Rugs have a great range of wool rugs with both contemporary geometric and more traditional patterns available. They’ve got free delivery on everything too.

CHOOSE A CHILD-FRIENDLY COFFEE TABLE

The aforementioned coffee table is a great option for your living room — not only does it tie a space together, but it also provides a practical surface for when you’ve got friends and family round for a visit. However, many people think they have to lose their coffee table once they’ve got small children who may be unsteady on their feet thanks to the hazard posed by their low height and sharp corners.

This simply isn’t the case, as there are plenty of stylish tables with a rounded design that are much more child-friendly in shape without any right-angles at all. Many furniture makers produce these tables, so you should have little trouble finding one that suits the luxury design of your living room. 

GET SOME STYLISH SHELVING TO KEEP ITEMS UP A HEIGHT

Young children learn by picking things up (and dropping them), so you may be tempted to part with many of your sentimental knick-knacks when redecorating your living room. Instead, why not put up some stylish shelves that can be used to store your belongings safely out of grabbing range of your little ones? Plus, the space beneath the shelves may even provide extra space for your kids’ belongings too. Take a look at Houzz’s 13 ideas for living room shelving, where you’ll find some clever suggestions about how you can add extra storage to your home.

A TV UNIT CAN HIDE UNSIGHTLY CLUTTER

If you’ve got children who are a little older, you’re likely to spend time together watching their favourite cartoons and playing their favourite video games. Unfortunately, with every new game console and Blu-ray player comes an abundance of extra wires, boxes and controls that can clutter up your living room.

By investing in a nice TV unit, you’ll have an item of furniture that can not only enhance the focus of your room, but allow you to hide wires and provide storage for DVD cases and other gadgets. The Independent rounded-up their favourite flat screen TV unit designs, recommending a variety tables and cabinets to suit all tastes and budgets.

Take these five recommendations on board to create a living room that balances both luxurious style and child-friendliness. You can look forward to many hours spent together in the comfort of your beautiful space.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO DEAL WITH COLD CALLERS

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There’s never a good time to talk to a cold caller, is there? Somehow they either manage to ring halfway through EastEnders, when we’re just about to sit down for a meal, or about to walk out of the door.

We get that these guys are just trying to make a living, and they’re only doing their job. If we’re the ones irritated by an unwanted call, just imagine how the cold callers feel, facing rejection after rejection during an eight hour shift. However, we still hate getting cold calls, especially if it’s about recovering PPI refunds

So how do you deal with cold callers? Wired and wireless telephone headset provider Headsets4Business.co.uk carried out a survey of 1,500 people and found that most of us immediately put the phone down on someone trying to sell them something, especially if it’s about double glazing or insurance. Others are honest and say they’re not interested, while a lot us say we’re too busy or pretend we’re just about to sit down to a meal.

Instead of getting annoyed with cold calls, we say it could be the perfect opportunity to inject a little fun into your day. Why not annoy them, play a trick, or better yet – waste their time. Here’s our IDEAL guide for dealing with cold callers.

Pretend you can’t hear them

Play along with them, but pretend you can’t hear them very well. The cold caller will soon get off the phone if the they have to repeat themselves over and over again.

Sell them something.

Try to sell them something instead. Oh how the tables will turn.

Consider them your Agony Aunt

Consider the cold caller your own personal Agony Aunt. Tell them your woes and troubles or make up some elaborate story. You never know – you could get some good advice out of it.

Role play

The cold callers side of the call is scripted, so have a little fun with it. When they ask if you pay the bills or are the homeowner, reply by saying you’re the burglar, or you’re having an affair with the homeowner. They have to be polite and keep to the script, so role play for as long as you like. 

Be kind

Remember, this is their job. So try to be kind, even when you’re having some fun with it.

IDEAL REASONS TO TAKE A PROPER LUNCH BREAK

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IDEAL REASONS TO TAKE A PROPER LUNCH BREAK

In a report last year, it was revealed that less than one third of UK workers, just 30%, take proper lunch breaks, such as taking a break from their desks, going outdoors for a walk, or dropping into a cafe.

The survey was conducted by the National Charity Partnership, with 1,700 workers participating. They discovered that the remaining 70% of workers spend their time at their desks working (24%) or browsing the internet (46%).

But who, precisely, is skipping lunch breaks? And why? According to the survey, it’s women – with just 15% taking a lunch break outside the office compared to 35% of men – and those over the age of 24 being the most likely candidates. Over one third of people cited ‘having too much work’ as a reason for staying put during lunch, one in eight said ‘stress levels’, and one in eight blamed the ‘workplace culture’. Others comments included not ‘being bothered’ or ‘prefering the internet to the outdoors’.

Retailer of dinner sets, Oldrids & Downton, has investigated why proper lunch breaks are so IDEAL in the workplace, both to productivity and job satisfaction.

What is expected from employers?

Employers are expected to stick to a set of pre-determined legal terms with their employees. Workers who are over 18 are entitled to rest breaks (lunch breaks, for example), daily rest (11 hours between working days) and weekly breaks (either 24 hours uninterrupted break each week, or 48 hours uninterrupted work each fortnight).

Rest breaks are required when working for 6 hours or longer – employers are legally required to allow you at least one 20-minute break during the shift. Employees should take breaks in the middle of the day, and be allowed to spend their break away from their workstation.

Why are lunch breaks important for employers?

Almost 10 million working days are lost a year as a result of work-related stress – so anything employers can do to encourage wellbeing at work is beneficial to the success of the business as a whole.

Lunch breaks are also known to increase the productivity of workers – especially if short breaks are factored in too. This is strengthened further when accompanied by a nutritious lunch, which will give workers the right nutrients and fuel for the rest of the day.

Why are lunch breaks important for workers?

According to respondents to the National Charity Partnership survey, 90% of workers who take a proper lunch break felt ‘happier and more positive’ as a result. So why is that? Reasons could include:

  • You can get things done. Taking a proper lunch will allow you to catch up on life administration or run some errands, giving you more time in the evening to relax.
  • You can take in something tasty. Your lunch break gives you an opportunity to take in essential nutrients to keep you going for the rest of the day.
  • You can sneak in some exercise. People with an hour-long lunch have time on their side to sneak in a lunchtime workout during their lunch, but even with the minimum 20 mins you can take a stroll, up your step count and take in some fresh air.

How can employers encourage lunch breaks?

With the benefits clearly outlined, it’s important that employers encourage their staff to take their lunch break. There are a number of things that can be done to promote a proper lunch break, helping staff enjoy their working day more and increasing their productivity during working hours…

  • Lead by example. If your employees see you working through lunch, they may feel like this is expected of them too.
  • Create a workplace environment that encourages employees to take breaks
  • Designate a space in your workplace – such as a kitchen or dining room – that employees can relax in to get away from their desks
  • Supply healthy snacks to encourage a culture of healthy eating to accompany a healthier attitude to taking breaks.
  • Provide distractions from phones and screens. If you have room in your designated break space, include light reading materials (magazines and newspapers) and other forms of entertainment, so workers can enjoy their break in a dedicated environment, free from screens 
  • Encourage additional breaks. There are stressful moments in everyone’s jobs, so make it clear to employees that if they need to take an extra break for some fresh air, they can – and that their lunch break will be unaffected.

It is vital to office harmony that people take a proper lunch break, away from screens and work distractions. Workplaces and workers alike will see the benefit, so no excuses – step away from that screen now!

9 IDEAL FASHION ESSENTIALS FOR SUMMER 2017

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9 IDEAL FASHION ESSENTIALS FOR SUMMER 2017

With the promise of warm days and nights and potential visits abroad to lounge by pools and on the beach, your summer wardrobe is probably itching for an update. Top it up with these nine IDEAL fashion essentials and mix and match these with pieces you already own.

The day to night joggers

Summer might not bring images of joggers to mind, but this season we’re seeing drawstring waistband styles that are lightweight enough to wear all day at the office with a smart shirt, and with a bralet and heels for an easy holiday evening style.

The easy to style cami top

Cami tops are perfect for summer styling. Add one to a simple pair of skinny jeans and fashion trainers for a casual look, or tuck into a leather mini skirt for easy evening wear. Look for halter-neck styles to stay on trend this season but opt for easy to wear colours such as black and khaki.

The throw on maxi dress

A bodycon style maxi dress is definitely a fashion essential for summer 2017 – it works as an easy cover up for the beach but can also see you through to the evening when you head out for dinner and drinks on holiday.

The slip on sliders

Retro sportswear style sliders were once reserved for the sandal and sock wearing types but this trend has come into its own in 2017, with everyone donning a pair by the pool. A navy or black pair work with any bikini, while for the evening, faux fur style mules are an alternative choice if you’re looking to make a strong first impression.  

The Dad hat

No longer reserved for your pops on holiday, the dad hat is essentially a baseball cap featuring a fun slogan or logo. Both the perfect way of shielding your face from the sun this summer and of looking on-trend, it’s a practical and fashionable essential for summer 2017 and a huge range of high street stores are selling this style.

The cool kimono

The kimono is a cover-up style that comes and goes as each summer rolls around but it’s always a wardrobe necessity. Pull out the one you picked up last season or grab a new one featuring plenty of tassels and paisley print to nail that typical holiday style.

The simple straw bag

Straw beach bags are being enjoyed by the fashion elite currently, and work for the beach. Grab one of these in a simple tote style or opt for a structured picnic basket version which should keep everything in place whatever you get up to on your summer hols.

The Bardot sundress

Bardot cuts are still proving popular, so grab a summer dress with plenty of shoulder and you will nail summer styling. You won’t end up with dodgy tan lines and it’s the perfect top to create a fun, summery look.

The gingham bralet

Gingham may remind you of those summer dresses you wore as a child at primary school but it’s back with a bang this summer on everything from lightweight summer dresses to Bardot tops. Pick up a bralet featuring the print in black and white for retro vibes and pair this with high-waisted trousers for an easy festival style.

5 IDEAL DESTINATIONS FOR A TRANQUIL AUTUMN UK BREAK

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5 IDEAL DESTINATIONS FOR A TRANQUIL AUTUMN UK BREAK

The autumn months are a wonderful time to explore the UK as the nights grow shorter and cosier evenings draw in. By choosing the right hotel to suit your every need, you can easily get lost in our nation’s natural beauty, culture or history, even if just on a a quick weekend jaunt. With this in mind, we’ve selected 5 IDEAL  locations that you’ll be delighted to visit this autumn.

The Lake District

England’s most romantic national park has inspired many of history’s greatest poets and can ignite a wonderful weekend with someone you love. Choose one of many fantastic Lake District breaks and enjoy a stroll along the shoreline of Derwentwater, wander through the quaint market towns or take a hike up the multiple fells in the area. End the evening with a pint of ale in a snug country pub for the perfect finish to a relaxing break.

With so many interesting sights and a beautiful collection of breath-taking scenery across England’s largest National Park, the Lake District can be as active or serene as you make it.

Northumberland

A trip to the Farne Islands is unlike any other weekend break in the UK, in fact, Sir David Attenborough says it’s his favourite nature spot in all of the British Isles. This small island off the edge of Northumberland is home to thousands of seabirds and one of the largest seal colonies in Europe. These easy-going mammals have lived on the island for more than 800 years but are happy to host you as visitors for a couple of days. Enjoy the last of the year’s warm evenings with a trip to the island’s beaches and meet the local wildlife.

Bath

When the days are turning a little colder, the warming spas of Bath make for a great autumn break. The university city is just two hours from London and is packed full of Roman history, luxury hotels and a great selection of shops. Bath has been in fashion for decades so take the time to walk the elegant Royal Crescent, take an afternoon meal at the famous Pump Rooms tea house or bask in the whirling spires of the stunning Bath Abbey. It’s an easy city to visit in a weekend, but it will leave an impression that lasts much longer.

Edinburgh

The booming cannons that fire off Edinburgh Castle every lunchtime are the first sign you’re in a city with a loud voice. Edinburgh screams style and wit and calls out for you to spend a weekend strolling along the Royal Mile that marks the heart of the city, discovering Holyrood Palace and still taking plenty of time to enjoy the shops, cafes and museums you’ll pass on your travels. The city’s airport is well-connected by road, tram and train so it’s easy to connect with one of the affordable flights currently on offer from many regional airports.

Land’s End

Cornwall is always a stunning UK holiday destination, but it’s at its most accessible once the throb of the summer season has faded. Even though the crowds have left, you can be sure that the scones that make up a cream tea are just as tasty, and the views from the edge of the UK across the ocean are just as awe-inspiring. Take a day-trip over to the Isles of Scilly and enjoy the UK’s only subtropical climate for a taste of summer time in autumn! Get there quickly by flying to Newquay from airports across the country.

As you can see, the end of summer is no reason for the holiday season to be over. The UK has some of the world’s most prestigious historical sites, luxurious hotels and magnificent examples of natural beauty, and the arrival of autumn does nothing to dim their delights. Book now and grab your own weekend trip to see for yourself.

Top image source: Giphy

5 IDEAL AFTERNOON TEAS IN THE UK

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5 IDEAL AFTERNOON TEAS IN THE UK

National Afternoon Tea Week (14 – 20 August 2017), is the perfect way to celebrate the quintessentially British pastime. Here‘s our round up of the best and most unique afternoon teas to try during Afternoon Tea Week.  

ARTea Afternoon Tea at Lancaster London (from £35)

Lancaster London’s “ARTea” Afternoon Tea is perfect for those who know their Monet from their Picasso. The eclectic ARTea menu is edible, as are the canvasses within the afternoon tea, while waiters serve guests in whimsical painting aprons. Dishes are delivered to tables in painters boxes, revealing a delectable take on painting essentials. Delicate delights include: Finger sandwiches, pastries and freshly baked scones, all of which are served on painting slates alongside jam & clotted cream concealed in 30ml paint tubes.

Festival Glam Rock Afternoon Tea at K West Hotel & Spa (from £28.50)

Traditional Afternoon Tea has been given a glam-rock makeover at K West Hotel & Spa. Guests can swap traditional hot drinks for tea-infused cocktails, and even enjoy the treat late at night like a true rock star. Who doesn’t love cocktails and cake at midnight? The Festival Glam Rock Teas include enticing mini-clubs and rainbow brioche sliders, fresh blueberry ‘rolling scones’ with clotted cream & homemade jams, as well as a selection of delectable minted strawberry and watermelon mini-slushies; a selection of macaroons; sorbet cones; and white chocolate mini cheesecake bowls. The Glam Rock Afternoon Tea pays tribute to the hotel’s music heritage in a playful, fun and stylish way. The tea is served on vintage record covers, with electric blue and pink teapots and teacups, adding some glam to the rock.

Royal Afternoon Tea at The Arch London (£25)

Be treated like royalty at The Arch London as the five-star hotel serves a perfectly patriotic Royal Afternoon Tea. The stately spread features a procession of dishes worthy of the Royal seal of approval. Classic British savoury delights include Cheddar with apple and raisin chutney on sun blushed tomato bread; and Smoked salmon blinis with lemon butter and cracked black pepper. Sweet treats include quintessentially British desserts such as Chocolate orange tea cake, Battenberg, Raspberry and pistachio trifle and Strawberry and lemon curd tart.  Royal Afternoon Tea, priced at £25 per person or £36 with a glass of Champagne, is available from Noon until 7pm. It can be enjoyed in the hotel’s stunning Martini Library, stylish Hunter 486 restaurant or chic Salon de Champagne lounge.

Nautical Afternoon Tea at Bohemia Bar and Restaurant Jersey, Channel Islands (£19.95)

Bohemia Bar & Restaurant is setting sail for warmer climates on the Bohemia Afternoon Tea Cruise, and is welcoming guests onboard. The oceanic adventure commences with a ‘shell-ection’ of loose leaf teas and herbal infusions, served with Bohemian Tea Sand-wiches. Plain and raisin scones are served with Strawberry Jam, Jersey Black Butter and Clotted Cream. The real treasure is discovered with a myriad of sweet delights, including an Exotic Cruise Cake, a Ring Buoy Macaron, a classic Mint-Chocolate Chip Ice Lolly, a Summer Berry Tartlet; and a Raspberry and White Chocolate Mousse. Bohemia’s summer afternoon tea is available until the end of September 2017. Priced from £19.95, this nautical afternoon tea is served in Bohemia Bar or Bohemia Cocktail Garden from 2.30pm until 5.30pm.

Traditional Afternoon Tea at Sopwell House (from £25.95)

Keeping it traditional, Sopwell House’s Afternoon Tea is served on a tiered stand adorned with both sweet and savoury delights. Freshly baked scones are accompanied by Devonshire clotted cream and local strawberry jam. A range of finger sandwiches are on offer, including Smoked salmon & cracked black pepper and Cucumber & cream cheese. To satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth, guests can choose from a selection of cakes and pastries including the signature Sopwell Battenberg; Dark chocolate delice; and Fruit tarts. Guests can wash it all down with a cup of Newby Loose Leaf Tea, or for additional indulgence they can upgrade to a glass of Taittinger Brut Reserve NV Champagne or Pimms. Priced from £25.95, the Traditional Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed in the Restaurant, Cocktail Lounge and Conservatory, overlooking the 12-acres of beautiful gardens surrounding the hotel.

7 IDEAL REASONS TO HAVE A ROMANTIC BREAK IN BATH

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7 IDEAL REASONS TO HAVE A ROMANTIC BREAK IN BATH

The city of Bath is often described as one of the best places in England to take a romantic break and it’s easy to see why; stunning architecture, luxurious accommodation, unique shops, and top spa facilities await couples looking for that perfect place to enjoy a romantic getaway.  Here is just a taster of the things Bath has to offer for those who want to spoil their special someone from Visit Bath…

THE THERMAE SPA

Since Roman times, Bath has been a place to relax and unwind thanks to its unique thermal water.  Where better to enjoy some time out together than at the Thermae Bath Spa where you can wallow in naturally warm water or enjoy a special treatment for two.  Choose the Couples Aroma Hot Oil Massage or Couples Traditional Massage and have a massage together in the same treatment room with two therapists.

A BED FIT FOR A PRINCESS

With three quarters of the hotels in Bath offering four poster beds, there is no shortage of excellent accommodation in and around the city and with prior arrangement, many will lay on extras such as flowers, chocolates or champagne in the room on arrival for that special occasion.  Enjoy some of the luxurious accommodation that the city has to offer for an extra special stay. Book into the 5* Royal Crescent Hotel set in the centre of the city’s architectural masterpiece or stay at the Queensberry Hotel – a stylish, boutique hotel just a stone’s throw away from all the major attractions. Make searching for that perfect place to stay easy by booking online at: www.visitbath.co.uk.

BE SERENADED BY STRINGS

Tea in the stunning Pump Room with the string quartet playing in the background is like stepping back in time, to the romance of Bath’s Georgian heyday.  The Pump Room, the social heart of Bath for 200 years, is the place to taste the waters which have played such an important role in the city’s history since Roman times.  Take advantage of the tempting afternoon tea menu with options like Champagne Afternoon Tea or Celebration Champagne Tea.

CANDLELIT DINNER 

Bath has a vibrant restaurant scene with a huge choice of eateries from Indian to Italian and Mediterranean to Moroccan; there is something for everyone, including a wealth of inviting restaurants to get all starry eyed and have an intimate candlelit meal.  For a special occasion where better than Sotto Sotto, an award-winning Italian restaurant set in the vaults underneath one of Bath’s city-centre streets offering romantic places to hide away to enjoy an intimate dinner for two.

STROLL HAND IN HAND

Stroll hand in hand along the streets of Bath to explore the amazing architecture the city is renowned for.  Or head to the many parks and gardens within the city and charming countryside around Bath.  The National Trust Skyline Walk is a six mile circuit of the city with magnificent views and benches for romantic moments. Or a stroll along the Kennet and Avon Canal is easy walking on the flat out to the George Inn at Bathampton or beyond.  There are numerous country pubs with welcoming roaring fires and cosy corners to reward romantic walkers with a wholesome pub lunch.

RELIVE THE ROMANTIC NOVEL

With two of Jane Austen’s published novels set in Bath, the Jane Austen Centre is a popular attraction, but for something different, take a stroll along Gravel Walk, made famous in her novel Persuasion, or download the free mp3 audio tour – ‘in the footsteps of Jane Austen’ – from www.visitbath.co.uk.

A PLACE TO PROPOSE

Being such a romantic city, Bath isn’t short on places to propose.  Pop the question on the tranquil Palladian Bridge in Prior Park Landscape Gardens or in front of the iconic Royal Crescent.  Thermae Bath Spa is one of the most romantic settings in Bath. Open until 10pm, you can enjoy a moonlit dip in the open-air rooftop pool overlooking the beautiful city.  For total intimacy the stand-alone Cross Bath – fed by its own natural hot spring – can be hired for exclusive use.  Or why not book a hot air balloon flight and toast your future together with a bottle of Champagne on board.  For an unusual location, head to the very top of Bath Abbey’s tower in the centre of the city – offering stunning panoramic views of Bath.

To arrange the perfect break to Bath, see www.visitbath.co.uk for ideas and inspiration on things to do, places to eat out and accommodation.

IDEAL FOR BRUNCH: GOLDEN CORNBREAD WITH SMASHED AVOCADO & CRISPY BACON

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IDEAL FOR BRUNCH: GOLDEN CORNBREAD WITH SMASHED AVOCADO & CRISPY BACON

Ideal for breakfast or brunch, this simple cornbread courtesy of TREX is served topped with smashed avocado and crispy bacon rashers.

Preparation 30 minutes

Cooking 40-45 minutes

Makes approx. 20 pieces

  • 100g TREX
  • 375g plain flour
  • 200g fine polenta
  • 1tsp salt
  • 4tsp baking powder
  • 110g caster sugar
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 4tbsp natural yogurt
  • 400ml milk
  • 198g can sweetcorn, drained

To serve:

  • Ripe avocados
  • Crispy bacon rashers
  • Finely sliced red chilli (optional)

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C, fan oven 180°C, Gas Mark 6. Lightly grease a 25 x 30cm baking tin or roasting tin with TREX and line with baking paper.

2 In a large mixing bowl, beat together the TREX, flour, polenta, salt, sugar, eggs, yogurt and milk to give a smooth batter. Stir in the sweetcorn.

3 Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking tin and bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and springy to the touch. Cool in the tin.

4 Serve each portion with mashed avocado and crispy bacon rashers, with a little fresh red chilli, if you like.

Cook’s tips:

Measure the TREX into your mixing bowl and allow it to come to room temperature for a few minutes so that mixing is easier.

Wrap the cornbread in greaseproof paper or foil and keep it in an airtight tin in a cool place for up to 5 days. If you wish, freeze some of the cornbread for up to 3 months.

5 IDEAL GAME FOOD PAIRINGS

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL GAME FOOD PAIRINGS

The UK’s game season commences on 12 August 2017 – and adventurous ingredients and quirky pairings to transform dinner parties can be much simpler than expected.

With the help of Michelin-starred Bohemia, shares his favourite ingredients to pair with game which are sure to leave friends and family ‘pheasant-ly’ surprised!

VENISON AND CHOCOLATE

As one of the most popular game meats, venison is renowned for being low in fat and big on flavour. The jus pairs perfectly with dark chocolate to create a rich sauce with a bitter kick. Adding a drop of red wine or some seasonal berries will add acidity to balance the sauce.

GROUSE AND AUTUMN BERRIES

Grouse has a strong, signature game flavour, which partners well with the sweet and sour notes of autumnal berries. In this case the grouse would eat berries in its natural habitat so the combination works particularly well.

PARTRIDGE AND WILD MUSHROOMS

Out of all the game birds, partridge is one of the most delicate and subtle in terms of taste. In light of this, it is important to not overpower it and let the meat speak for itself. Wild mushrooms are a great partridge pairing as they give a delicious, earthy aroma.

PIGEON AND BEETROOT

The signature earthy taste of the beetroot is the perfect robust pairing for the rich nature of pigeon. Ingredients that are available at the same time always make good pairings and this is certainly true of pigeon and beetroot.

HARE AND BLUE CHEESE

A slightly more unusual duo, but hare and blue cheese can be a delicious combination. The cheese acts as a great seasoning to the leg meat as it is both sharp and salty.

 *This is an old article that has been updated

4 IDEAL WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR HOME WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

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4 IDEAL WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR HOME WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

Wanting to make some improvements to your home can be an incredibly stressful and expensive time in your life. If you’re lucky enough that money is no issue you’re set! But if like me you have a tight budget then you may be worried that you won’t be able to achieve the dream house you’ve always dreamed of owning. However, don’t worry because there are many clever ways you can have everything you dreamed of and more without having to break the bank. By focusing on these 4 tips you will see massive improvements in your homes decor while also increasing your overall value of your home.

Get new lighting

Updating the lighting around your home with some new quality lights can be one of the easier ways you can revamp your house and give it a completely different feel. Lighting is the most important part of setting the mood, creating your own personal style and can help you bring attention to key features in your rooms. If you want to update your lighting find a clever way to place them as this may lead to house actually appearing much bigger, and who doesn’t want more space! Or even just the illusion of more space.

Create a feature wall

A feature wall in any room of your house will make everything pop and draw in attention to a specific section of your room, usually this has been reserved for front rooms, but creating a feature wall in rooms like the kitchen has now been made easy; you can add an acrylic splashback to a wall to draw the eye to it. As well as giving you new design opportunities companies like Cut My Plastic offer a wide range of colours, styles and offer a service of cutting it down to any shape or size. So adding that feature wall doesn’t have to be expensive and you can get it tailored to what you want!

Repaint everywhere

If you want a change but don’t have enough money to make any drastic changes repainting your most important rooms is a great way to get that new house feeling. Change the colour in your living room, bed room and kitchen and you’ll basically have a whole new vibe to your house. Repainting is relatively cheap and you can even do it yourself. Make it into a family day and enjoy painting your home as a family. Choose whatever colours of paint you like, its your space and you can create whatever vibe you want!

DIY furniture

Reupholstering furniture such as sofas, armchairs or even cushions can be a relatively low-cost home improvement. Chose some nice fabric and do it yourself even. There are many tutorials online which can help you figure it out! You’ll feel super accomplished and can proudly show off your new DIY furniture to all your friends.

So that’s our guide to spruce up your home without having to smash your piggy bank! Hopefully these can help you turn your house into a genuine dream home!

THE IDEAL CAREER GUIDE: WHAT OFFICE PERSONALITY ARE YOU?

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THE IDEAL CAREER GUIDE: WHAT OFFICE PERSONALITY ARE YOU?

If you work in an office, then you know how dynamic the office environment can be. You spend most of your waking time in your office and even more time there than you spend with your spouse or family. You’re thrown together with a mixture of personalities that you may not particularly like. Your office can change your personality, too. You may take on some traits or personality roles you never knew you had in you.

There’s no denying the fact that the workplace is a hot-pot of different personalities since no two people are alike. If you’re working in a global office, where there are many employees of different cultures and beliefs, all the more that this fact also becomes evident. 

Apart from that, every employee also has their own work ethics or professionalism value. While you may have the same goal, which is to further the objectives of your workplace, each of you may also have different ways of achieving that. So, it’s easy to see why in the workplace, there can be difficulties when it comes to personality.

HOW WORK PERSONALITIES CHANGE OFFICE DYNAMICS

It is important to the overall office dynamic that you and your peers get one. Ensuring that you work well with your peers is important for teamwork. Most offices cannot survive unless there is a good amount of teamwork. Despite the fact that you all have your respective differences, this doesn’t mean that your work dynamics also have to suffer.

As professionals, it’s very important to learn when to put aside whatever differences in beliefs, culture, and work ethics it is that you have. For instance, the introvert has to learn to work well with the extrovert, and vice-versa. In so doing, you’re able to ensure that you become more effective employees. 

If you let your different work personalities get in the way of achieving the goals and office requirements that you have, you lose your professionalism, productivity suffers, and the office camaraderie is also disrupted.

EFFECT OF POSITIVE SOCIALIZATION IN THE WORKPLACE

Socialization is very important even in the workplace; no man is an island. If your office personality may influence how well you socialize with your peers. If you are the leader of your office, you may come across as approachable however keep your distance from staff. The leader of the team is a senior member of staff who is always willing to help out the newbies should they ever need a helping hand.

If you are the egoist you may have a lot in common with David Brent. The infamous boss in the office. This may hold you back from achieving personal relationships, as you tend to be fairly full of yourself. With this kind of personality, it may be easy to fall into the trap of office politics. Be sure not to let this get in the way of your work efficiency and the relationship that you’re building with your peers.

If you wish to start creating important relationships you can very easily change your office personality and start becoming more integrated into office socializing. Instead of working late every night while your peers go out, why not join them.

Cezanne human resources management software brings this infographic to you, it’s a quiz designed to help you understand what role you play in your office.  However, it is just a quiz and cannot tell you what role you exactly play. Don’t forget that the office is always changing and open to allowing others to change.

THE FINAL WORD

With this simple infographic or personality chart, you now know what kind of office personality it is that you have. But, this doesn’t mean that it’s totally representative of yourself. If there’s an area that you’d like to improve in or change, it’s doable – in fact, it’s highly recommended. 

Try taking that chart test also with your peers. When you discover more about each other, you also know when to adjust and to be more understanding of the differences that each of you may have.

IDEAL WAYS TO MAKE CHANGES TO YOUR HOME THAT WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME

Editorial Team
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IDEAL WAYS TO MAKE CHANGES TO YOUR HOME THAT WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME

When making a change to our home, whether it is a minor alteration or a major renovation, we do it in the hope of it lasting as long as possible. No-one wants to revisit a cracked and peeling coat of paint after a matter of months. Equally aggravating is a both outmoded and outdated carpet. With the help of this guide however, you should be able to dodge such errors and make changes that are built to stand the test of time.

Trends change over time

If you want to maximise how far your money will go, as well as the lifespan of your interior décor changes, there are two vitally important things to remember. The first is to remember that what is in vogue at that present moment will not remain in vogue forever. Anyone who has had the misfortune of encountering a 70s décor in this day and age, will whole-heartedly agree that statement. Don’t become the fossils that have stuck religiously to the garish décor of a bygone era.

Taste is subjective, and subject to change

A very similar comparison can be made with the concept of personal taste. Art has always been subjective, and will remain to be so, and interior décor is no different – ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.’ For that reason, it is important to remember that everyone does not necessarily share your, no doubt, excellent taste. And even if you remain resolute in your decision to decorate according to your own tastes, it is certainly worth keeping in mind that tastes change too.

The importance of surfaces

Regardless of subjective tastes and trends, there is an undoubtedly objective science to picking the right surfaces in your home, especially when it comes to longevity. One of the most short-lived aspects of any home, are the carpets, with an average lifespan of 8-10 years. So easily sullied and quick to lose vibrancy of colour are carpets that you are far better off instead opting for laminate flooring. With an average lifespan of 25 years plus, laminate flooring has its anti-scratch and stain qualities to thank for its ability to retain its original gloss for decades. Its durability does not come at the price of its visual appeal however, with eerily accurate natural stone and exotic hardwood replications available.

The same logic is applicable to kitchen countertops. While typical countertop surfaces suffer from certain fragilities, quartz countertops are close to invulnerable. Completely non-porous and anti-microbial, it is the perfect surface for preparing food, and it is more than well-equipped to deal with spills.

Creating an exterior that can last for decades

Painting the exterior of your home can be a tricky undertaking – mountains and mountains of paint, dry and warm weather conditions, and a great deal of effort, are all prerequisites. With such a challenging undertaking, you want to be 100% certain of not only the colour, but the quality of the paint itself. That’s where weatherproof exterior coatings come in. A quality exterior coating can battle rain, wind, sleet and snow to last 25 years and beyond.

 

10 IDEAL REASONS TO GET CRAFTING

Editorial Team
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10 IDEAL REASONS TO GET CRAFTING

Over the last year, crafting has become extremely popular. It’s got health, wellbeing and financial benefits – didn’t you know?  Knitting, origami and colouring have come out as the leading crafting trends of late, but if those aren’t for you, there are many other fun and fulfilling crafts out there to satisfy all tastes and abilities.

Our friends at Hochanda, Home of Crafts, Hobbies and Arts, have put together some  ideal reasons to  get crafting now! 

Crafting helps improve a range of physical skills

Hobbies such as knitting, sewing and quilting help to maintain the use of muscles within the hands, which in turn keeps hand-eye coordination and dexterity at a good level; this is particularly important to maintain as you get older.

Crafting helps to keep the brain active

Crafting always encourages you to be creative, which can help keep the brain engaged a lot more than doing something like watching television, which can leave your mind unproductive and drained.

Crafting can be good for mental health too

A repetitive action like crocheting for example, can help to encourage psychological benefits similar to those of mindfulness and meditation.

Crafting can make you feel happier

Spending time on a hobby you enjoy can help to relieve some of the tension and stress caused by the daily grind. This can create a much more positive mental attitude, and can result in a happier outlook on life.

Crafting can be a sociable pastime

Social and emotional loneliness is something many fear. With this in mind, it’s important that those who live alone and who have a tendency to feel isolated, have the opportunity to socialise. Crafting groups can be a great way of enabling people to interact with like-minded people and meet new friends.

Crafting is a way to show you care

Whether it’s for an animal lover or for Valentine’s day, using your crafting ability to make personalised gifts is a fantastic way to show someone special that you care. Not only does making your own gifts and cards mean they are unique and one of a kind, they also prove how much time has gone into thinking about the other person.

Crafting can save you money

Crafting is a great way to help you save money. The materials can be a lot cheaper to source than buying the products you are making, for example a pair of embroidered jeans could set you back £40 – £60 but compare this with buying some of our gorgeous embroidery sets (starting at £9.99) and you can upcycle a pair of old jeans at a significantly lower cost!

Crafting can even help you make money

Crafting also has the opportunity to help you make some extra pocket money. Something which may start off as a hobby could draw interest from others, especially as handmade and unique items are becoming increasingly more popular. Mastering a craft can therefore be a great opportunity for making some extra cash and you’ll be doing something you love!

Everyone is capable of crafting

A hobby like crafting is accessible for everyone. Any age, gender or personality has the potential to find something they really enjoy as there is so much choice available. At Hochanda we offer a wide range of products for all kinds of activities including jewellery making, needlecraft, woodwork and mixed media art to mention a few!

Crafting can keep you feeling young at heart

By exploring new hobbies and crafts and incorporating them into your daily lifestyle, you can keep up with all the latest trends such as DIY fashion which encourages fashion fans to create their own unique clothing through crafting activities such as embroidery.

Read: 6 sustainable DIY home decor ideas from Cleanzen to craft this year

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