Counting sheep and listening to lullabies can only get you so far. The experts from The Sleep Matters Club powered by Dreams reveal some common bedtime mistakes you might not even know you’re making – and how to avoid them
Caffeinated midnight snacking
Caffeine is a stimulant and in moderate doses can block sleep neurotransmitters causing insomnia. Foods high in refined sugar like breakfast cereals, breakfast bars and pasta sauces can stress the organs in charge of hormone regulation causing you to wake in the night as your levels fluctuate. Snack on foods that contain tryptophan. This amino acid is needed by the body to produce serotonin, which in turn makes melatonin – a hormone that helps to control your sleep cycles. Foods that are high in tryptophan include yogurt, milk, banana, eggs and turkey.
Catching up on sleep
It’s a common misconception about sleep debt: you accumulate lost hours of sleep that you can pay back later on, and your body will be fine.However sleep debt isn’t a straight balance. Most people only usually need two or three good night’s sleep to get back to normal after serious sleep deprivation.
Sleeping with pets
According to research 63% of pet owners who shared their bed or bedroom with their pet experiences poor quality sleep. Keep your pets in a different room. If they’re exceptionally noisy, consult your vet to rule out any medical problems – they might be making some sleep mistakes themselves!
Hitting the snooze button
Any extra sleep you get is fragmented making it low quality. You also prepare the body for a new sleep cycle that you won’t have time to finish, resulting in fatigue throughout the day. Set your alarm for when you actually need to get up. Try to set it for the same time every day. This regularity will hopefully mean you should wake up without the need for an alarm.
Having a nightcap
Though alcohol does not allow healthy people to fall asleep quicker, it reduces REM sleep- the phase of sleep associate with deep dreaming. Disruptions in REM sleep may cause daytime drowsiness. Avoid drinking alcohol just before you go to bed. On average, it takes an hour for the body to process one unit of alcohol. Instead opt for herbal teas, such as camomile, which have a sedative effect.
Using Technology before bed
78% of people use a smartphone, tablet of laptop before going to bed. However these gadgets emit blue light, which is said to delay the production of melatonin, the sleep inducing hormone. Give yourself a tech curfew. And move your electronic devices out of the bedroom altogether.
Leaving the TV on
38% of people watch TV to wind down for sleep. However, watching TV before bedtime encourages you to stay up later, harming your sleep cycle and leading to poor quality sleep. Keep TVs out of the bedroom. Alternatively listen to the radio to help you fall asleep.
With a few changes to your bedroom routine you’ll hopefully be dozing off in no time. Sweet dreams!
There are many ways you can spice up a room without having to go through a big remodelling project. Changing the colours of the walls or installing new wallpaper is great, but you can achieve the same big effects by adding new elements or changing the decoration a little bit.
London is the perfect place to be if you’re thinking about adding new accents or ornaments to the room, because there are plenty of great ways to get them. So, where should you shop for awesome yet affordable interior ornaments in London?
Online!
You can’t live in London and not take advantage of the free shipping offers available online. London is one of the best-covered cities in the UK when it comes to delivery options, which means you can pick up any item you like and shop at top online retailers without having to worry about shipping and handling charges.
There is another great advantage of shopping online too: discounts! Online retailers such as Big Warehouse Sale tend to offer more discounts than their offline rivals. This is because online retailers don’t have to spend so much on overhead costs, allowing them to offer competitive prices as well as great special offers almost all year round.
To make it even better, there are plenty of catalogues to go through online. Want to cover the worn wooden floors with sharp, modern and cheap grey carpet for a completely different interior tone? Search for the right shade and pattern online and you will have the new carpet installed within days.
Ben Pentreath
This next one is a personal favourite of mine because the shop is filled with accessories; they’re all gorgeous and you have plenty of options to choose from. The next time you’re looking for ornaments for your living room, some new kitchenware to spice up those Instagram photos or you just want to pick up new cushions, Pentreath & Hall is the place to be.
You only need to look at the store’s Instagram stream once to know that there are some beautiful items you can pick up from the place. The ornaments and accessories sold at this outlet are also reasonably priced, so you don’t have to worry about breaking your wallet the next time you visit.
Twentytwentyone
Twentytwentyone is where vintage design and modern accents meet. It is a truly awesome interior shop to check out, especially with their gorgeous displays. However, it is worth mentioning that Twentytwentyone is also a high-end store.
Worry not, because the store frequently offers discounts and special offers. You can pick up gorgeous interior pieces for up to 70% off the normal prices if you time your visit correctly. These items are ex-display or items that have been discontinued, but they’ll still look good in your property and they’re definitely a steal at the discounted prices.
The next time you want to spice up the interior of your house, be sure to check out these options and have the best interior pieces brightening up the rooms around your house in no time.
The cold weather is finally giving way to sunshine and summer is on the horizon. This means it’s time to shed your winter layers and refresh your beauty routine, so you can emerge like a beautiful soft-skinned butterfly into the next season. The Club Spa’s Manager Lyndsey Jackson-Guy reveals the must-know beauty tricks for a rejuvenated you.
Do use SPF even when it still seems like winter!
Wind and sun are one dynamic (and evil) duo for the skin. So when freezing temperatures and biting winds have left your skin dry, agitated, and pretty much in the fetal position, UV rays have a clear shot at your skin. Using SPF lotion all year round will add moisture to your skin and make it less prone to lines and wrinkles.
Do keep things natural
Lotions using as many natural ingredients as possible are best as the skin can get very delicate during winter. Use a Herbal Steam room if you are looking to shed your winter weight. Herbal Steam rooms accelerate weight loss and a single steam session can burn as many as 600 calories!
Do exfoliate
Central heating and icy weather play havoc with your complexion, making your skin look dull and feel horribly dry. Using an exfoliating scrub can help to shed dead skin to reveal softer, fresher skin.
Do look after your hair
It’s not just your skin that gets neglected throughout the winter. During the colder months, hair can get dry and brittle from lack of vitamin D, so make sure you give your locks some love and attention once in a while too.
Don’t exfoliate too much
Exfoliating too much can dry out your skin. This then can lead to the skin getting too oily as it tries to recover from being stripped. It is best to exfoliate your skin once a week.
Don’t forget to look after your skin
Don’t just wrap up under warm layers and forget about looking after your body and skin during colder months. Harsh cold weather drains out the moisture in skin, however a body lotion will rehydrate and rejuvenate this.
Don’t stress
Massage is a proven powerful stress reliever which not only helps you unwind but can also help with long-term anxiety issues. Face and scalp massages aid relaxation – perfect for relieving stress. A happy person is a beautiful person.
Don’t stick with the same products all year around.
You may have found a moisturizer that works just fine in the summer. But as weather conditions change, so, too, should your skin care routine. Find an “ointment” moisturizer that’s oil-based, rather than water-based for the colder months, as the oil will create a protective layer on the skin that retains more moisture than a cream or lotion. (Hint: Many lotions labelled as “night creams” are oil-based.)
If you fancy a treat then The Club Spa is home to an Indoor Salt Water Pool with Hydrotherapy Bench and Thermal Suite, comprising a Salt Cabin, Herbal Steam Room, Sauna and Experience Shower to revive and invigorate. A soothing Relaxation Sanctuary offers four reclining beds with integrated headphones playing soothing music with fruit, herbal teas and magazines available.
The Club Spa, Green Street, St. Helier, Jersey JE2 4UH, Channel Islands
Sam Atherton from the Sleep Matter Club powered by dreams shares with IDEAL her top tips on how to sleep better during allergy season
Now we’re in summer, many people are spending more time outdoors. However, some are avoiding time spent in the warmer weather due to seasonal allergic rhinitis, known to most as hay fever.
Seasonal allergies occur when airborne pollen from trees, flowers, grasses and weeds enter the body through the nose, eyes or mouth.
One area that is significantly affected by hay fever is sleep. Hay fever sufferers are kept awake by breathing difficulties, sneezing and nose blowing, which can result in significant daytime sleepiness and fatigue.
In one study, only 17% of patients with allergies rated their sleep as optimal. About half of all people in the study said their allergies woke them up at night and made it more difficult to fall asleep.
Hay fever affects one in four people in the UK, and, unfortunately, there is no real cure.
Many sufferers will notice that hay fever symptoms worsen at night. Some believe that this is because as the temperature cools in the evening there is less hot air rising, and that leaves a layer of pollen-rich air around ground level.
What can hay fever sufferers do to sleep better?
Fortunately, there are measures hay fever sufferers can take to enjoy a better night’s sleep. Here are some ideas:
Reduce your stress
There have been links between stress and the severity of hay fever symptoms. Stress can keep you awake at night, yet reduced stress levels could mean that your symptoms will become milder. Focusing on this is a no-brainer.
It is important that you keep your bedroom clean to make sure dust doesn’t build up on areas such as your surfaces and skirting boards. Of course, your bedroom is where you sleep, so for allergy sufferers it’s worth making the effort to make sure your bedroom is clean. By paying attention to the cleanliness of your home and bedroom you can minimise your hay fever symptoms dramatically.
Shower before bed
A great way to ensure you get a better night’s sleep is to have a hot, steamy shower before you go to bed to clear your sinuses. A shower will enable you to wash off any pollen that you might have collected on your skin and in your hair during the day.
Try a shower with eucalyptus as it is great at clearing the sinuses and soothing the throat.
Remove clothing worn outside
When you get in, remove any clothing that you have worn outside and put it in the washing machine. Once the clothes are clean, avoid hanging them outside to dry in order to avoid pollen, as it defeats the object.
Make sure you know when it’s time for a new mattress
As your mattress gets older, your mattress and pillows collect dust mites, skin cells, sweat and body oils. The dust mites in your mattress can trigger your hay fever symptoms, so it’s important that you keep dust mites at bay. Clean your sheets as often as possible and regularly hoover your mattress to avoid dust mites building up.
It’s also important that you know when you should replace your mattress. It is advised that you replace your mattress every 8 years.
If you are a hay fever sufferer and these tips work for you, let us know in the comments section.
It may not quite be maxi-dress season just yet, but the experts behind leading fake tan accessory brand, Bronzie, want to educate Brits on how to make the most of their tanning efforts as the sun starts to beam through the clouds this spring.
Eloise-Maryam, tanning expert to the stars and marketing manager at Bronzie said, “As we transition into the warmer months and ‘winter white’ skin starts to call for a little pick-me-up, one of the most popular questions I’m asked at this time of year is “how do I achieve a natural looking tan?” Well the answer is simple, for anything to look good on your face or body, the base needs to be cared for and prepped. You wouldn’t paint walls until they were clean, dust-free and smooth, would you?”
The ladies behind Bronzie believe that it’s really important to look after your skin, especially where fake tan is concerned. Here are Eloise’s top tips for achieving the perfect tan this spring:
Give your skin a little TLC
“Be sure to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will show through your skin. We know that it’s been said time and time again, but water is like a magic tonic for skin, hair and nails, but many of us don’t drink the amount we should. Also, make sure you are buffing your body from top to bottom in order to remove the remains of any dead winter skin cells – you can use anything, like a loofa or bath sponge. Last but not least, make sure you remove your makeup before bed. Another old cliché, but trust us – your pores will clog with the makeup, and your skin will appear dull.
Perfecting a tan at home
If you’re a DIY tanner, the most common way to achieve the glow you want is to go for a gradual tanning product. You can find a variety of brands in all supermarkets or online. If you have a tan product you regularly use, go ahead and use that, but just a little less of it. Instead of double layering or doing two coats over two days (which is known as double-dipping), just apply the one coat to achieve a natural glow. Creams will always last longer as they penetrate further into the outer layer of the skin. It’s also important to be extra cautious with hands, elbows knees and feet as these areas in particular tend to dry up quicker during harsh weather, causing them to develop a darker tone. In order to avoid dark patches make sure you apply extra moisturiser.
Don’t be afraid to call in the experts
To create your springtime glow with your tan artist, ask for a lighter version of what you normally have – or if you usually have two coats, ask for one instead. To keep the tan alive, avoid anything that will make you sweat too much like saunas, steams, swimming pools etc, as all of these can affect the longevity of the tan, causing it to fade more quickly or even look patchy. Anything oily can also break the tan down, so make sure you use oil-free products to keep your glow looking fresh.
When you meet a person for the first time what do you immediately notice? Their shoes, how good looking they are? Well generally, we notice a person’s smile – especially if it’s a particularly bad one.
Improve your appearance, and first impression, by altering your smile with these 5 steps
Teeth Whitening
Brighten your smile so your teeth are a healthy white with a teeth whitening treatment. You can do this yourself with a home kit or for a safer and more effective procedure book an appointment with the professionals.
Teeth whitening procedures can lighten your teeth by multiple shades, taking them back to their natural colour before built up staining occurred. This is completely safe, and with the correct maintenance, results can last for months.
Invisible Braces
Gone are the days of metal wires, colourful elastic bands and painful train track jokes. Indeed, as reported by Elite Orthodontics, who provide braces in London, adult braces have now turned invisible!
As Whitehouse Dental, an orthodontist in Richmond, tell us, modern braces are like a see-through fitted gum shield, which is designed just for you. You can smile all you want, without affecting your speech; just make sure to remove the brace when eating or brushing your teeth.
So if you have a slightly crooked smile or would like to realign it slightly, invest in invisible braces from your orthodontist.
Via Canva
Veneers
Do you dream of having the perfect smile? Well, you can create one with dental veneers. But what exactly are veneers?
As Harley Street Dental Clinic, providers of veneers in London, point out veneers are extremely thin, porcelain caps that can be placed on top of discoloured, chipped or misaligned teeth to build a straight, white smile. Veneers are extremely strong and resilient to staining or chipping damage, and therefore are a popular choice with people looking for a complete make-over.
Dental Implants
Having missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious and less likely to smile, but dental implants will have you beaming once more.
Smile Like the Stars tell us that unlike uncomfortable or troublesome dentures, dental implants are a permanent fixture that will stop the bone receding and your jaw changing shape. And you can brush them as you would your natural teeth.
Titanium is used as a manmade replacement for the original tooth’s root and fused for security. A crown or bridge is then fitted on top to mimic the appearance of the surrounding teeth. As a result, when you smile, the tooth should blend in seamlessly with the others around it. And according to Smiles Denture Care Centre, that patients who have opted for dental implants London Ontario services often remark how similar the implant feels to their natural teeth. No one would ever know!
Keep Your Teeth Clean
It may sound simple, but keeping your teeth clean can drastically improve their appearance. Brush twice a day, floss regularly and buy a mouth wash. Try to cut out red wine, stop smoking and avoid foods that may stain your teeth, such as beetroot or tomatoes. These are all simple and affordable tips that can really make a difference.
Will you be altering your smile with one or more of these tips? Well, turn that frown upside down, and show us those teeth! It’s time to smile again.
Our IDEAL guide to beauty salon etiquette including how much to tip and when is too late to show up to an appointment
Confused on how much to tip if you get your nails done? Want to know how do you make sure you get the beauty treatment/haircut you want?Vaniday’ s leading hair ambassador, CJ Vineall from top London salon Michael John takes us through the most-asked client questions when it comes to booking beauty services for the ultimate guide in making the most of your appointment and the best customer service possible.
Vaniday is the new booking platform connecting customers with the industry’s key experts in multiple categories spanning hair, makeup and nails right through to top personal trainers, yoga instructors and wellbeing specialists for a healthy mind, body and spirit.
How late is too late to show up for an appointment?
This really does depend on the service you’re having, for a hair appointment we would say to try and not be more that 10-15 minutes late. It is sometimes challenging with the tube and traffic in London but stylists and beauticians do have set timings for appointments that enable us to deliver the best possible service in that time, that includes a consultation to find out what you are looking to have done, a relaxing massage at the basin and the colour/cut and styling of course. The later you are for an appointment the less time we have which increases the pressure to facilitate each part of your salon journey.
Should you prepare for your appointment?
Absolutely, in order for professionals to deliver great results we need an idea of what our clients are looking for, especially when it comes to hair. I would recommend thinking about some ideas or bringing in some images of styles that you really like, this then forms the starting conversation in our consultations. We can see what you like and discuss how we can bring elements to your style, taking in to consideration your hair type, texture, styling routine and personal style. Clients that know what they want but are also flexible when it comes to tailoring that look in terms of suitability enables us to deliver exactly that and makes for a great salon experience. Communication is so key.
“For beauty it’s the same, take in to consideration the treatment you are booked in for, especially a service like waxing where it’s important to not apply oils or lotions that day so you can ensure you get the best results from your service.
How do you make sure you get the beauty treatment/haircut you want?
With Vaniday customers can search by the individual professional so you immediately have access to their personal Vaniday profile which features a photo of them along with images of their previous work and detailed reviews from previous clients. This helps removes the mystery of who you are booking in with so you can already see if you will get on and like their previous work. Once in salon the consultation is key, if you are looking for a big change I would recommend booking in for a consultation prior to your appointment so you have a full understanding of the services you are having and the results. It’s also a great idea if you are looking for some style advice and expert opinion.
Is it rude to use your phone in a salon?
Not at all, we all know how important our phones are, many of our clients use salon time to catch up on emails or read blogs that they haven’t had time to otherwise. It’s especially great to see clients on their phones if they are leaving us a great review!
What do you do if you don’t like your treatment?
Customer Service is important to Vaniday and after each appointment booked through the platform their customer service team contacts each client to review the service and also contact the salon to follow up. If you are unhappy with your service, which although we have detailed consultations in place can sometimes still happen, it’s important you speak to your stylist, the receptionist or salon manager so the team can rectify any problems right away for you.
How much should you tip?
It’s really up to the client’s discretion, it is common to tip around 10%, although we have had lovely gifts from happy clients including home baked treats to bottles of wine at Christmas!
If you are looking for a hotel that will take your breath away then you have found it. Although five star hotels in Bangkok are abundant, few hotels in the capital can compare to the luxurious world of Siam Kempinski. Read on to find out why we fell in love with this relaxing retreat during our hunt for the top ten luxury hotels in Bangkok…
The Idea
To create a peaceful inner-city sanctuary within the heart of Bangkok.
Location
Located in the busy Pathum Wan district, the Siam Kempinski is situated in one of Bangkok’s main entertainment and cultural destinations. Tucked just behind one of Asia’s largest shopping complexes, the hotel is a stone’s throw away from the Siam Paragon Mall, Central World, MBK and the markets of Pathuwan. The BTS Skytrain system is a short five minute walk away and the hotel is within 10 minutes of both the underground and the new airport train link.
Out of all the luxury hotels in Bangkok, this one really is in an enviable position and the perfect place for people who love to shop, allowing guests to easily enjoy the restaurants, shops and hustle and bustle of the walkway-linked luxury shopping malls of Bangkok. Should you wish to take transportation to sample the delight of the shopping malls, the hotel offers a free Tuk Tuk to Central World.
The Welcome
This hotel represents the sort of indulgent fantasy you create in your daydreams about luxury. Walking into the entrance hall of the Siam Kempinski will simply take your breath away. As soon as you enter the majestic and marvelous marble lobby; with its high ceilings, pretty light-purple rugs, cream sofas and vibrant fresh flowers, you are awed by the elegance of the hotel.The staff are warm and welcoming and take the meaning of superlative service to another level. The relaxing ambiance of the Siam Kempinski immediately takes over, and the serenity of the hotel is enough to make you forget that you are in the hustle and bustle of central Bangkok.
The Ambiance and Decor
The elegant lobby sets the tone of the hotel. Here everything is designed with the ‘wow’ factor in mind and opulent decor is key. Bringing with it a certain savoir-vivre, the flamboyant European flair of the Siam Kempinski is obvious in the classical, yet modern decor of the hotel, but it is the thoughtful nod to Thailand’s artistic heritage that is really impressive.
The Siam Kempinski certainly serves up authentic Thai charm and culture as the property displays approximately 4,000 pieces of art, including 200 original paintings and sculptures by Thai artists, all of which express the personality and culture of Thailand. In the lobby of the hotel hang impressive bass lamp cones, formed like the decorative fingernails of northern traditional Thai dancers performing a graceful welcome dance.
The colour accents in the decor reflect the purples, greens and creams found in the colours of the lotus flower which is an Asian symbol for things of special value. The lotus can also be found in the hotel’s logo, in the design of the carpets, on the staff uniforms and in the charming prints and photos featured in every guest room in the hotel.
The hotel is built next to the Sra Pathum Palace, formerly the home of Prince Mahidol (the current King’s father) and is now home to HRH Princess Srindhorn. The ground where the hotel now stands was once part of the Lotus Pond Palace commissioned by Rama IV (known in the Western world from the story ‘The King and I’) as a retreat outside the city. Keeping in line with the historical site of the Siam Kempinski, the lotus flower is harmoniously blended into the overall decor of the hotel, nodding to the old lotus garden.
The architects of the Siam Kempinski have built the hotel with the Royal history of the area in mind. The hotel’s encircled landscaped inner gardens is a serene haven with three saltwater pools, tropical trees and a grassy lawn, recreating the serenity and beauty of the former lotus gardens.
The Rooms
For globetrotters who have stayed in the very best hotels, then the rooms at the Kempinski will please. Featuring 303 contemporary rooms and lavish suites, all rooms offer a beautiful view of Siam Kempinski’s lush green gardens. Modern comfort and convenience are combined, with each guestroom featuring a tea and coffee maker and a flat-screen TV. For a truly unique experience, stay in one of Cabana rooms with direct pool access. What could be more luxurious than opening up your hotel room doors, stepping into a serene pool and letting your cares slip away?.
It’s the little things that set luxury hotels apart and the Siam Kempinski certainly is the master of petites choses. Complimentary soft drinks and local beers are available from the minibar in each room, and they don’t skimp of the toiletries, offering dental kits, fragrant bath goodies and more. Also if you decide to spend the day basking in the sun by the saltwater pools, the hotel staff bring around much needed water to quench your thirst and cold towels to cool yourself which are a god-send.
Facilites
Once you’ve relaxed by the pool or shopped ‘til you’ve dropped, you can take advantage of a variety of recreational facilities that the hotel offers…
The Gym overlooks the garden and is fully equipped with the latest cardio, strength and conditioning equipment. For the fitness fanatics out there it also offers yoga, aerobics and Muay Thai classes.
The Spa – What luxury hotel would be complete without a spa? The spa at the Siam Kempinski is a magical getaway in the bustling city offering a wonderful range of therapies themed around the changing four seasons.
Kempinski Kids Club – Perfect for parents who want some time alone. The kid’s club offers facilities specially created to entertain, amuse and occupy your little monsters under the supervision of professional child care specialists.
The Business Centre – For the business travellers out there,the hotel room has a separate working station with the option of having a faster internet connection.
Food & Drink
The luxury continues when you indulge in the award winning food of the Siam Kempinski. The Sra Bua, which has been voted as one of Asia’s top 50 restaurants, is the hotel’s flagship restaurant and the one all the critics are swooning over. There are not many restaurants in the world that will wow you, but this one certainly will by inspiring both your eyes and your palate. It combines authentic Thai food with cutting edge flair, and the result – amazing molecular- gastronomic interpretations of Thai cuisine. Elsewhere, the Brasserie Europa serves up traditional European inspired dishes and is famous for its Sunday Family lunch.
Why go
To experience a hotel in the heart of Bangkok, exuding traditional Thai charm with wow worthy extras. Awaiting for you at the Siam Kempinski is luxury, luxury and more luxury. The hotel oozes quiet tranquility with discreet but highly attentive service. As the hotel says ‘We warn you – don’t be surprised when you decide to extend your stay…’
When the cold is starting to creep in and the rain is starting to get more ceaseless than sporadic, it’s hard to get motivated to start a fitness program. Even less appealing is one that counts exposure to the unpredictable British weather as one of its key components. However, since we usually eat more as the nights get darker and the necessity for hibernation increases, a remedy is required. Something healthy, fun and rewarding that usurps the frequenting the gym.
Of course, it would be easy to join the legions of gym bunnies and muscle bound he-men there, but memberships cost money and not everyone can afford to splash out £100 per month for the privilege. Thankfully there is an alternative.
Get Fit With Cycling
Cycling is a great way to keep fit. Cycling builds your aerobic fitness as well as toning your legs and bum, making you look and feel radiant. If you cycle regularly, you will soon notice an improvement in all areas of your body, plus your energy levels will soar as a result of doing regular exercise. This is goes a long way to keeping your heart healthy both physically and potentially, romantically – you’ll be fighting off potential suitors with a bicycle pump with your new look body. The trouble is, you might not feel too positive about cycling when the weather is poor and the evenings dark.But don’t let short days and bad weather put you off – there are lots of ways to incorporate cycling into your daily routine and improve your fitness levels at the same time.
Buy a great bike
A bike, obviously, is essential if you want to start doing a bit of cycling. In an ideal world you already have a bike sitting in the garage, seat well worn-in anticipating your firm buttocks, but if you don’t, it should be easy to pick a decent quality second-hand bike up for next to nothing. Alternatively, check out your company’s cycle to work scheme and see if you can use it to buy a new bike. There are rules attached to the cycle to work scheme and you will need to show that it is possible to cycle to work from home, but if you fit the criteria, it is a great way of buying a new bike, tax free.
If you’re in the market for purchasing a new bike, make sure you do your research before buying as you can often find massive discounts online. To help you narrow down your options, always pick a bike according to your size and height. You can do this by using an online bike size calculator. We found this bike size chart guide by mybikexl for your convenience.
The Road Is Your Catwalk
Cycling in the autumn requires more kit than summer cycling. For one thing you will need waterproofs to protect you from the weather, and for another, bikes lights and hi-viz clothing is a must-have. Fear not though, because cycling-chic, especially in the capital, is very much en vogue. Cycling in the winter doesn’t have to be miserable, however. You could restrict your outdoor cycling to the weekend and buy a stationery cycle for indoor fitness training in the week. That way you can enjoy the fitness benefits of cycling without the horror of biking through horizontal hail.
Start Slowly
It is not a good idea to plan a long ride on your new bike if you haven’t done much exercise recently, as it will probably take your down a peg or two and end up denting your confidence.A good idea is to build up your tolerance slowly. To begin with, plan a few short rides – for as long as you think your backside will stand it – and then gradually increase the time you spend in the saddle. As long as you take it easy in the early stages, you will enjoy yourself a lot more.
The best bit about cycling all autumn is that come the summer time, you won’t have to panic about working on your beach-ready body – yours will already be in tip-top shape!
Do you ever come home after a shopping spree with a bag full of new clothes, but with nothing that you actually need or intended to buy? Do you have a wardrobe full of clothes but nothing to wear? Do you always feel guilty after you’ve gone clothes shopping because you have spent too much?
If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions then you’re in need of some shopping spree saving. With the help of fancydressmania.co.uk we’ve put together a list of shopping tips every lady needs to know before they hit the high street! Stick to them and buyers remorse will be a thing of the past.
Shop with a plan
Know exactly what you need and how much you can spend, then write it down and create a budget. This way you won’t overspend and be tempted to buy something you don’t really need.
Pay with cash
It’s a fact you spend more money when you swipe. A 2008 study found that physically handing over money triggers an emotional pain that actually helps to deter spending, while swiping doesn’t. As a result, the study found that cash discourages spending whereas plastic encourages it.
Buy Basic
When it comes to spending money on fashion, focus on all of the basic looks. Buy clothes that are timeless and coordinate well. A neutral pencil skirt will be fashionable for years to come and can be updated for the seasons with a fashionable new top.
Shop Online
Save money by shopping online. If you are a fashionista on a budget, check online before you splurge on your wardrobe. There are websites dedicated to deals and coupons that can save you serious cash on clothes by your favourite designers. Check out https://www.raise.com/coupons/macys for various deals, discounts and, yep, coupons for Macy’s department store, for instance.
Consider The Type of Care
Consider the type of care that a garment requires before purchasing it. If you get something that is dry clean or hand wash only, you might either end up with a huge dry cleaning bill, ruining it, or worse – never using it!
Go Timeless
When purchasing jeans, go for a timeless look. For example, classic straight leg jeans never go out of style. Opt for either of these styles in either a dark or slightly faded denim to remain in style throughout the years. By opting for these styles, you will always be in style no matter the current fashion.
Shop with Friends
Go shopping with friends and help each other pick out clothes. Your friends can be your best resource when it comes to choosing the right outfits to wear. They are the ones who are going to tell you if that green dress you really want actually makes you look like a giant walking bogey.
Be Unique
Do not be afraid to be unique. Uniqueness is a good thing. You should never try to hide it. However, before you make your purchase ask yourself if the piece you’re buying is versatile and how many times will you actually wear it to avoid wasting money on a one time outfit wonder.
Know Your Body Type
Keep your figure in mind when purchasing clothing. While you may like something you see on the rack, that particular item may not look great on you; instead, think about what your best feature is and try to enhance it. For example if you have great legs, show them off with a short skirt or a pair of killer high heels. If you have a bootylicious bum, don’t try to hide in frumpy clothes, show off your enviable curves in a chic jumpsuit or a well-fitted pencil skirt. Playing up your assets is the best way to create a look that flatters you.
Do a Clothes Swap
Remember the saying ‘one man’s junk is another man’s treasure’ – this is true of clothes too. If you don’t have much money for clothes, let friends know and arrange a clothes swapping night where you can swap you unwanted garments for somebody else’s pre-loved items and potentially walk away with a whole new wardrobe without spending a penny.
Invest in Key Pieces
Every wardrobe should have a few key pieces. The little black dress is a classic for good reason. A well-fitted white blouse is versatile and flattering. A tailored suit is perfect for serious business. These items are ones you shouldn’t be afraid to spend a little extra on, as they are timeless classics that last beyond the changing fashion trends.
Don’t Be Swayed By The Magazines
You do not have to get the exact same wardrobe that’s in all of the magazines. Just look at clothes that are similar to the fashion that’s in style and DIY. This way you don’t have to waste money on expensive outfits that will be out of fashion before you can blink.
Avoid Fashion Fads
Reiterating the above point – if you have a limited budget for clothes, avoid buying clothes that are trendy and will only last you for a season. Fashion fads quickly go out of style, and you will be stuck with clothes that will make you feel like yesterday’s fashion queen. Stick with the classic looks that are timeless.
Get tips from couture shows
Couture is not always meant to be worn. It is fashion as art. However, very often certain themes, colours and silhouettes make their way from couture to your local stores, so get a jump on everyone else and get an idea for what is coming by checking out couture shows.
Do you have friends in faraway places? Then here are five ideal reasons why you should travel to visit them
Do you have friends and family in faraway places that you only get in contact with via Facebook? Although Facebook is great for keeping in touch with people, it’s no substitute for seeing them in person.
Having friends and family in different countries is a fantastic excuse to go travelling. In case you need some inspiration for why you should travel abroad and visit your friends, with the help of momondo, we list five ideal reasons to give you a nudge in the right direction.
APPRECIATE THE WORLD
Having friends who live abroad can often be seen as negative, as they are not around the corner for a cup of coffee or a catch-up drink. However, we say turn this pre-conception on its head. Having friends overseas is a great excuse to see a new part of the world. And there is no better way to experience new cities than with locals. So go on, tick some new places off your bucket list!
BE INSPIRED
Whilst visiting friends in other countries, its always great to get a taste of the local culture. Whether that’s trying regional delicacies, checking out the latest gallery opening or listening to local bands. Who knows, you may come back from visiting pals, inspired to take up a new hobby or cultural interest. Or at least come away with some treats to savour at home.
MORE’S COMPANY
Trips are always more fun with friends. From having someone there to discuss travel discoveries with, to sharing a jug of sangria or three – we think travelling is simply better with friends. And who knows you could even make some new friends whilst away on your trip too.
NOTHING BEATS FACE-TO FACE
We all love Facebook, however, people too often use it to passively keep track of others, instead of making the effort to meet up with them. There is nothing worse than losing touch with a good friend and face-to-face interactions build stronger, more meaningful relationships. So we say use Facebook to arrange a date to go visit your mate, find a flight and jump on the next plane! You won’t regret it.
THERE IS NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT
Life is short, and holidays are shorter. Enough said.
Breakfast is a hard meal to get right as often it centers around convenience foods which are usually pretty unhealthy. However, Kellogg’s has come to the rescue with their Ancient Legends brand, which is a delicious range of wholesome granolas, mueslis and cereals bursting with ancient grains and seeds. The collection includes rye, spelt, chia, flax and quinoa – ingredients which have been grown for millennia and offer a multitude of nutritional benefits.
The grains rye and spelt are rich in fibre and B vitamins, which help us to release energy from food and stay energised throughout the day, whilst chia and flax seeds are rich in Omega 3. Quinoa is a great source of protein, and along with flax and chia seeds contains high levels of minerals calcium and magnesium, which aid the normal functioning of the nervous system and maintenance of healthy bones.
To celebrate all thing’s breakfast here’s a recipe using the cereal that you’ll absolutely love!
APPLE AND CRANBERRY BIRCHER MUESLI POTS
Bircher muesli was invented by a Swiss physician at the turn of the twentieth century as a way of boosting his patients’ raw fruit and vegetable intake, and remains a wholesome way to fuel your morning. This recipe can be served in jars to take with you to work for a convenient nutritious breakfast when you’re in a hurry.
Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: none
Serves 2
Ingredients
90g Kellogg’s Ancient Legends Quinoa apple, cranberry and chia muesli,
1 eating apple, washed and cored
75ml cranberry juice
6 tbsp fat free Greek yogurt
Honey to taste
Method
Coarsely grate the apple and place in a medium bowl.
Add the muesli, juice, yoghurt and mix well. If liked add a little honey to taste.
Divide the mixture between 2 jars with screw top lids and chilli for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Serve straight from the jar.
Love Thai food? Then get yourself down to Old Spitafields Market on 29th April 2017 to experience a multi-sensory trip to Thailand
This global campaign is all about bringing the vibrancy of Thai food culture to the world, injecting a modern, refreshing spin on its big and bold flavours.
The famous Thai beer company has teamed up with Bo and Dylan, from renowned restaurant Bo.Lan in Bangkok, to create a menu inspired by Bo and Dylan’s fondest memories. Bo. Lan was recently named one of Asia’s 50 best restaurants, so this should be one hell of a pop up! There will also be live music, interactive art and of course, lots of Chang beer.
If you want to get the best birds-eye views of London, add these attractions to your itinerary.
Visiting the UK capital? London is a beautiful old city, charming in a very unique way. But, in fact, you can actually get a much better feel for the city, and the life that springs from the streets and buildings blending in a display of urban organisation, if you view London from as high a vantage point as possible.
Here are some of the best spots in London where you can experience some truly amazing views.
The Shard
The Shard stands head and shoulders above the rest when it comes to a great view of the city. The ‘View’ – with a capital V – is captured all the way up at the 69th level of the towering structure, where you can see more than 60 kilometres around the city. The entrance fee is a bit hefty, at around £25, however. In fact it’s even more if you just walk in without booking a reservation.
The Emirates Airline
This is not an actual airline, but a cable car that pulls you up in the air from Greenwich to the Royal Victoria Docks. It functions as both a rewarding tourist attraction and a decent public transport system to takes you away from all the traffic on the ground. If you manage to time your visit to avoid rush hours, you can enjoy a luxurious 10-minute ride while the city passes below you. It’s pretty affordable too, at £4.30 for an adult.
London Eye
Fancy a cushy seat as the city of London slowly unfurls before your eyes? Then you’ll want to head to Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel, the London Eye, for a killer view. Tickets for adults are £21.50 for a 30-minute ride – £19.35 if you book online.
The Monument
Standing 161 metres tall, the Monument to the Great Fire of London is the perfect place to get a good view of the city for just £3. The catch? You’ll have to climb all the way to the top with your own two feet, which could be a bit of a challenge for some! Still, making it to the top is an exhilarating experience made all the more rewarding after the long climb up its winding stairs.
Galvin at Windows
Want to sit down to a really good meal with one of the best views around the city? Galvin at Windows is a Michelin-starred restaurant that gives you both – although the view is built in to the prices! A two-course set lunch will cost about £25, or you could just have a drink at the bar for a lot less.
Getting Around London
If you’re flying in to the UK capital, Gatwick Airport transfers come highly recommended as a mode to get you to your accommodation if it’s your first time to London, as the city’s public transport system can be a bit overwhelming. Some shuttle services offering Gatwick Airport transfers also offer private taxi services which can prove immensely useful when getting to specific points in and around London.
Every once a while, we need an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. There is only so much rat-race restaurant dining one can stand. A long walk on a deserted beach, wind in your hair, fresh sea breeze in your lungs, with a nice pint in a cosy pub to finish – your 9 to 5 toils are soon a distant memory. If all this escapism culminated in a hyper-seasonal, ridiculously reasonable Michelin-starred meal, with warm welcome and good cheer to boot, you’d probably say it was too good to be true. But at Whitstable’s The Sportsman, all of this is yours.
THE IDEA
Self-taught chef Stephen Harris is at the helm of this self proclaimed ‘grotty little pub by the sea’, and from the outside, it’s hard to tell that this place is a favourite of chefs from across the globe. Upon entering, the blackboard menus, light wood furnishings and the pub’s original bar do little to suggest the culinary delight which follows.
The restaurant relies firmly on the land and sea surrounding the pub, and the bounty available here, from the Thames estuary, salt marshes and of course, the ocean, is of pristine quality and freshness. Most of the ingredients are actually visible from the pub itself. The chef even makes his own salt from evaporating the nearby North Sea’s water.
ATMOSPHERE
The atmosphere of a small pub by the sea has not been compromised, much to the Sportsman’s credit. Former regulars still frequent the bar area, and the booze prices and generous welcome are a reflection of this. Service is delivered with grace, knowledge AND a smile – nothing feels stuffy or pretentious here.
FOOD
The plates here are seafood heavy due to its location and ethos of only using hyper-local produce. Vegetables are grown nearby and lamb is reared minutes from the restaurant. The results are simple but spectacular. Why cook with anything but simplicity when the raw materials are this darn good? Food is presented elegantly and with little in the way of frills – most dishes rely on only a few ingredients that work in perfect harmony with each other. A la carte options, a 5 course tasting menu or longer version give the diner choice to suit their occasion and appetite.
MUST TRY
It’s impossible to mention only one dish. Oysters are super fresh and served raw with only a respectively thought-out dressing to complement – just the way they should be and all the more stunning for it. Fantastically just baked bread, served in a variety of options, with home churned butter and homemade salt, give a great rendition of the mindset of the place – the rosemary focaccia is glorious. Slipsole with seaweed butter has gained a cult following online and beyond and it’s easy to see why – a pristine, fresh fish, cooked on the bone with butter made with seaweed picked from the coast – its clarity is to be vaunted. Desserts should not be overlooked either, particularly their seasonal fruit souffles.
DRINK
If coming from London, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. There are a host of bottles clocking in at under 20 pounds, pints linger around 3 and the selection and variety of both is excellent.
WHY GO
Some restaurants have jumped on the ‘local and seasonal’ bandwagon whilst still serving fish from The Pacific and strawberries in winter. The Sportsman’s kitchen, however, cooks with utter integrity and respect for its ingredients, stemming from knowledge of the area and a relationship with its community that goes way beyond what is usually expected of a place. This is real ‘time and place’ cooking which provides a meal of real refinement and class. It makes you yearn for a slower pace to life and a simpler approach to cooking.
