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HOTEL REVIEW: HOSANA, PHU QUOC – THE IDEAL FAMILY RUN RESORT

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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HOTEL REVIEW: HOSANA, PHU QUOC – THE IDEAL FAMILY RUN RESORT

 

On an island awash with choice, it’s hard for the little guy to stand out. Family run finds its voice hard to be heard against the backdrop of corporate yelling. For those wishing to make an impression, it’s important to find your place in the pecking order and deliver your message perfectly. Hosana has it nailed.

Idea

The upper-tier of Phu Quoc resorts, with boutique spas and internationally catered for restaurants, is full to bursting. The sandy toed, guitar strumming budger traveller also has myriad options. But what of the middle ground? Of those minding the pennies whilst appreciative of home comforts and a good night’s sleep? Hosana, you have found your niche.

Location

Hosana is in the mid-west of Phu Quoc, Vietnam, set ten minutes back from beach and amongst a few local food joints. A short walk away is the excellent Mango Bay restaurant, for great dining and romantic vibes.

Atmosphere

The place is family run and offers a warm welcome and friendly feel throughout. The family dog and various children frolic and play in the main area and you feel at home from the moment you walk in. A large swimming pool sits in the middle of two-storeys of rooms, offering a focal point and spaciousness.

Rooms

Rooms are large and accommodating, with beds of a similar size and comfort level as the showier affairs of the island. Clean and minimalist yes, but all you could ask for when in and amongst nature’s bounty.

Facilities

The hotel offers a spa with rates competitive. You’d be crazy not to as you can experience being pampered without doing too much harm to your wallet.

Food and Drink

The small welcome area serves also as the restaurant, with breakfast offering noodle soup and eggs done a variety of ways. Similar, simple Vietnamese fare is available all day.

Why Go

Whilst Phu Quoc seems to be catering more and more for the spend-happy traveller looking for a break of being spoiled and indulgence, there are still many other demographics on the island looking for a cheaper stay and more traditional experience. If you are that person, then you could go much further wrong than Hosana. 

hosanaphuquoc.com

IDEAL stayed at the hotel as a guest and received a complimentary stay

 

RESTAURANT REVIEW: THAI LAO YEH RESTAURANT, BANGKOK – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR REGIONAL THAI CUISINE

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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RESTAURANT REVIEW: THAI LAO YEH RESTAURANT, BANGKOK – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR REGIONAL THAI CUISINE

Bangkok is rammed to the rafters with the richest variety of options for the culinarily inquisitive. From high end to low end, and everything in between, the mega-metropolis has got your back. Being a vast city, to put it mildly, and with most restaurants specialising in one type of cuisine or famous for one type of dish, makes for a certain amount of travel to experience a range of the country’s cuisine in the same day. As any visitor to the city well knows, travel and time efficiency is not a marriage made in heaven here. How about sticking regional, well executed cuisine from the north, the south, and the middle all under one roof, saving a thousand journeys and plenty more baht?

IDEA

Thai Lao Yeh’s cuisine purports to be primarily of Isaan descendance, but in all honestly, the menu stretches, and infact crosses, Thailand’s borders. The food of the North-East is represented well, but offerings from Lao, Chiang Mai and plenty of hot, vibrant Southern curries also make an appearance. Authenticity (a dirty word when liberally used) issues abound, the food is uniformly delicious, and the opportunity to sample such a broad range extremely welcome. 

LOCATION

The restaurant is nestled in the regal Cabochon hotel, in the Siam area of Bangkok, and is stylised to feel like an affluent home from the 1920s. Vintage Mercedes sit outside, and antique flourishes adorn the walls. It feels cool and sophisticated. 

ATMOSPHERE

The decor of the room is reminiscent of what you’d imagine a wealthy household in Ancient Siam to be like. Restored wooden wall panels are crafted from 100-year old timber salvaged from a remote Thai Village and deep, dark wood furnishings create an ambience suggestive of low, gentle voices. The owners collection of decorative wooden bird cages dangle from the ceiling. Crockery is a carefully curated collection of blue and white Thai ceramics and the ornate utensils, locally crafted and sourced from Chatuchak market, is beautiful and reassuringly heavy. Wait staff glide around with unassuming authority and through the open-plan kitchen you can see the cooks.  Aromatic smells of lemongrass and ginger permeate the air and the sound pestle striking mortar and the sizzle of woks all add up to multi-sensory pleasure.

FOOD

With the menu being on the lengthy side, we sought guidance from our waiter. We were steered towards Larb Pla, a delicious Northern minced fish salad. It was as good a rendition of this dish as we have tried anywhere – fragrant and zesty, just as it should be. Equally good was the Northern sausage, all sour and immensely herbal, supported by salted, roasted peanuts and some soothing chilled vegetables. The knock-outs just kept coming. A majestic oxtail soup was complemented by hints of star anise, the combination working in exquisite harmony. Roasted, crispy pork with a piquant tamarind dipping sauce continued the crowd pleasing. Even the green, stir fried vegetables were moreish and perfectly executed.

DRINK

Light and refreshing Thai beers are the perfect accompaniment to this type of food – soothing, crisp and just right with chili. A decent, affordable wine list also suits the air of sophistication.

MUST TRY

The oxtail soup was the stand-out star in a shimmering sky. Seasoning and spicing was elegant, ethereal, even, and the meat melted as it should if cooked well. A bowl of plain rice was the perfect foil, as in any Thai spread of repute. Need we say more?

WHY GO

For a trailblazing, fingerlicking ride through Thai food, in relaxed, cool surrounds, go to Thai Lao Yeh. Its sophistication and spice, in equal, abundant measure, seemed to sum up the heat, diversity and class of the city so well. We loved it. So will you.

Website: www.cabochonhotel.com

Address: Cabochon Hotel, 14/29 Sukhumvit Soi 45, Bangkok, 10110 Thailand

IDEAL dined as a guest of the hotel

RESTAURANT REVIEW: CHARCOAL, BANGKOK – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR A TASTE OF INDIA

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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RESTAURANT REVIEW: CHARCOAL, BANGKOK – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR A TASTE OF INDIA

 

Bangkok. A culinary mecca. A foodie tour de force. A diner’s dream. The most visited city in the world has everything to satisfy the hungry traveler, from cheap-as-chips streetfood to lavish-as-lobster fine dining. The Michelin Guide will, finally, sprinkle some stardust on the city at the end of the year and Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants was dominated by restaurants from this metropolis. It’s been a wonderful few years for this great food city, and the accolades just keep coming.

Capitalising on all this attention, and hitting its stride just in time for that tyre-guide, comes Charcoal.  Opened in late 2014, the restaurant took a while to perfect its schtick. Now, it feels like the best place in the city for this type of cuisine.

Idea

Bangkok is a sophisticated place, with a taste for cocktails, a love of spice, and a close proximity to India lending a large diaspora from the sub-continent to the city. On the back of all this, Charcoal was bound to be a success.

The Soho Hospitality Group had already nailed the cocktail formula in the hugely popular rooftop bar of the same building. It didn’t take much foresight to replicate those exquisite cocktails downstairs, and pair them with highly spiced, highly aromatic food served straight from the flames of the tandoor.

Location

The closest sky-train stop is Nana, and its just a short walk from there. Alternatively, Sukhumvit metro station serves the area.

Atmosphere

The lighting is low, like, really low. We were surprised a torch wasn’t offered with the menu. This fits the ambience of the play perfectly though, as there’s an air of the sensual, the sultry and the primal that a starkly lit room would betray.

The smell of coals cooking meat and the sight of flames licking the ceiling in the open kitchen, add theatre and excitement to the experience.

Food

Kebabs are king here, and it would be churlish not to enjoy one. 3am, British high street offerings these aint. They are smoky, spicy and sophisticated. A whole shoulder of lamb, smoked and charred and falling apart was a revelation. As with any genuinely great Indian place, vegetables and pulses are celebrated as much as the meat – a tomato daal managed to be both creamy and retain the integrity of the lentil. It really was a showstopper. We’ve also heard great things about their tandoor malai broccoli dish but purposely didn’t try it, just for an excuse to go back. 

A huge shout out too, to the poppadoms. The tricolor of accouterments so familiar to the curry house devotee – mint sauce, mango chutney and the pickly one – had been given respect and attention which elevated them to something grand and moreish. We had to use all powers of self-control to decline a second batch so as not to ruin our appetites.

Drink

Drinks share equal billing with the glorious culinary delights at Charcoal, and with good reason – they’re bloody fantastic. Suggestions accompany the food menu and, in the spirit of the occasion, we followed dutifully. Horn Ok Please offered lip puckering citrus and the heft of good gin. New Delhi Duty Free was delicious, but what’s more, served with a duty-free bag containing an Indian passport. We are sad to report that we weren’t allowed to board a hastily booked flight to Mumbai the following day.

Must-try

Both food and drink menus are such a miasma of good taste, bright flavours and ingenious combinations that it’s impossible to single one out. We would, however, strongly recommend one of Charcoal’s signature dishes to finish your feast – the ‘Paan’. This Mumbai staple, sold on every street corner of the city, is a small snack of nuts and sweet flavourings wrapped in betel leaf. It was a revelation – first aromatic, savoury, then sweet and finally minty and refreshing – a really intriguing way to finish a meal. Charcoal has its own paan stall in thrall to the ubiquitous roadside ones of India’s capital, with a chef constantly rolling fresh ones for the restaurant.

Why go

Charcoal manages to stand out in a city of spice and fire. This is partly due to the sensational food, and even more so because of the unique drinks. Theatre and fun are at the heart of the operation, with even the toilets (we’ll let you find out for yourselves) contributing to the sense of joyful experience and occasion.

A restaurant we fell in love with and can’t wait to visit again!

Address: 38/8 Sukhumvit 11 Rd., Fraser Suites Hotel, 5th Fl. Bangkok, Thailand

Website: charcoalbkk.com

5 IDEAL WAYS TO HELP REDUCE AIR POLLUTION

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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Air pollution has been in the news a lot recently – it’s damaging our lungs, hearts and the health of our children. Air pollution is an issue all over the UK, which is why Global Action Plan formed a collective of local councils, charities and universities to coordinate the first ever National Clean Air Day on 15 June. But what can you do to help? Abi Aldridge, from Global Action Plan, shares her top tips for reducing air pollution.

Use your feet, take to the street

The most common cause of air pollution in U.K. cities is diesel vehicles, so one of the best ways you can reduce the amount of air pollution you make is to leave your car at home. Walking, cycling, getting public transport – there are loads of alternatives to driving. Why not walk or cycle instead? This is great for local air quality, and the exercise also makes it great for your health!

Switch your engine off when stationary

Not ready to leave your car at home just yet? If you are driving, make sure you switch off your engine when you’re pulled over or not moving (and it’s safe for you to do so). People have a tendency to leave their engine running ‘so that the radio stays on’ and ‘the A/C doesn’t turn off’ – we see this a lot during school drop offs or at taxi ranks. Turning off your engine is a simple way to make the air cleaner for you, other drivers and pedestrians.

Drive into the future

Last year, more than 80,000 people in the U.K. bought low polluting cars. Next time your car is due an upgrade consider buying an electric or hybrid vehicle. (Or if you have to use a petrol or diesel car you should speak to a car dealer about the least polluting models). A lot of these low polluting vehicles have much cheaper road tax and they look pretty cool too – have you seen the new Tesla?!

Make the courier do the carrying

If you don’t drive you may think there’s not much you can do to reduce air pollution, but that’s not true! Many workplaces say that hundreds of personal parcels arrive for staff each day. Getting your new dress, shoes or book delivered to a local pickup point will reduce the number of vans doing city centre deliveries, cutting congestion and pollution. Using pick up points in corner shops or lockers in train stations close to home will save you the hassle of carrying your parcel all the way home from work (added bonus!).

Think of the kids

A little known fact is that pollution builds up inside vehicles and can reach higher levels than the pollution you inhale in the open air. This means children being driven to school can be exposed to more pollution than those walking, cycling or scootering. The school run is part of a finely tuned routine, and walking the kids to school yourself might not be possible. But if parents get together, more possibilities open up, like setting up a ‘walking bus’. It also helps the kids get the recommended 60 minutes of exercise per day.

For more advice on how to reduce air pollution, how to protect yourself from it, or how to get involved on National Clean Air Day, visit the website – www.cleanairday.org.uk

5 IDEAL PLACES TO GET A MANICURE IN LONDON

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL PLACES TO GET A MANICURE IN LONDON

London is full of great nail salons, so there’s no excuse for your fingers to go unpolished.  We’ve handpicked 5 of our favourite nail salons for you to get your digits decked out at.

LONDON GRACE, PUTNEY

Ever wish you could grab a latte (or something a little stronger) to sip on while getting your nails done. Well you can at London Grace. Serving a menu of coffee and cocktails alongside an award-winning nail bar, this is the ideal place for a coffee and a catch up. London Grace also prides itself on its own collection of nasty-free nail polishes. Oh and you get a free coffee with any treatment before 10am.

Address: 26 Putney High St, London SW15 1SL

Website: Londongrace.co.uk 

HULA NAILS, OLD STREET

This vintage tiki style beauty parlour near Old Street roundabout is seriously fun. They offer all the usual manis, but if you want something a bit special then this is the place to come. The talented technicians are skilled in unique and detailed nail art –  you can get pretty much anything painted on your  nails here  – think palm trees for summer, snowflakes for winter and cute pandas just for fun.

Address: 203-205 Whitecross St, London EC1Y 8QP, UK

Website: www.hulanails.com

CHEEKY PARLOUR, HOLBORN

This is Cowshed’s trendier little sister so we don’t really need to say anything about the quality of Cheeky Parlour. Just know that with its industrial style, white brickwork and chic furniture, this place is seriously cool.

Address: 198/200 High Holborn Road, London

Website: www.urcheeky.com

BLOW, COVENT GARDEN

We love this place, it’s perfect if you are pushed for time and need to look good fast. We suggest getting a speedy thirty minute blow-dry and then your nails filed, shaped and buffed. Book in advance because its great reputation and central London location means it’s always busy.

Address: 8 Slingsby Place, St Martins Courtyard, London WC2E 9AB

Website: www.blowltd.com 

NAILS AND BROWS, MAYFAIR

Set over two floors with nails on the ground level and brows on the first floor, this salons main focus (as the name suggests) is two things and they do them well.

Address: 31 Berkeley Street, Mayfair London W1J8EJ 

Website: nailsandbrows.me

Top image source: giphy.com

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR PREPARING THE PERFECT PICNIC HAMPER

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR PREPARING THE PERFECT PICNIC HAMPER

There’s no alfresco feast more delightful than a good old fashioned summer picnic.  With National Picnic Week (16 – 25 June 2017) fast approaching, London’s parks will soon be populated by quilted blankets and overflowing wicker baskets.  Nevertheless, picnic preparation is not to be underestimated.

If the thought of soggy sandwiches and leaky Tupperware sends your snack senses spiraling, five-star hotel The Arch London will be offering its critically acclaimed Best of British menu in picnic form.  With the hotel sitting just a stone’s throw from Hyde Park, simply wander across the road and settle into a shady spot, before indulging in the take-away hampers packed full of adorable miniature snacks.

Alternatively, for those wishing to create their own seasonal summer spread, Gary Durrant, Head Chef at The Arch London’s in-house restaurant Hunter 486, has lent his top tips to ensure your own al fresco feast goes down a treat.

MIX IT UP

Ensure a combination of sweet and savoury options are included in your picnic spread. Avoid sticky puddings and instead opt for easy to eat cakes or desserts. We send our guests off with slices of Battenberg and miniature Raspberry & pistachio trifles complete with the appropriate cutlery.

QUALITY NOT QUANTITY 

There’s a tendency to overpack when it comes to picnics, but the trick is to focus on quality not quantity. For example, crisps are a picnic staple but why not ditch the unhealthy shop-bought bags and instead bake some potato slices yourself? Not only are the baked variety healthier, your fellow picnic-ers will value the effort you’ve put in. We provide homemade crisps in our hampers which our guests really appreciate.  

SEASONAL SPECIALS 

Just because picnic hampers are typically packed with finger food, this doesn’t mean your spread needs to be simple. Do some research into seasonal summer recipe ideas featuring ingredients such as tomatoes and potatoes and prepare accordingly. For example, our hampers include a delicious potato salad with apple and mustard dressing.

ADD SOME SPARKLE 

It’s easy to solely focus on food, but the choice of beverage is just as key for a successful picnic. English sparkling wine is wonderfully refreshing on a hot day and complements a wide variety of snacks. We offer Camel Valley, Brut, 2012, a lovely English sparkling wine.

AVOID MESS

There’s nothing worse than discovering a smashed salad dressing bottle inside your hamper on arrival at your sunny spot. Ensure all components are individually wrapped and securely fastened. There’s no harm in double-bagging! It helps if your hamper is easy to carry, as this way the contents will not be disturbed.

5 IDEAL DIGITAL SECURITY TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL DIGITAL SECURITY TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS

5 IDEAL DIGITAL SECURITY TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS

You may be travelling far from home this summer, but hackers with access to your digital data are only a few keystrokes away from your bank account, credit cards and overall identity. We don’t meant to scare you, but even though the development of new digital technologies has opened up new opportunities for travelers, at the same time has increased exposure to scams and security risks while on the road.

With the summer travel season fast approaching, it’s a good time to start ensuring your own digital security. The premier travel insurance comparison website TravelInsurance.com has compiled a list of digital travel security recommendations:

Backup Your Documents

Scan or take pictures of your travel documents, including your passport, airline tickets, hotel reservations and insurance papers on your phone in case the originals are lost or stolen.

Clean Up Devices

Before leaving home, remove all non-essential personal information from your computer, phone and other devices. Make sure to set a strong password on your computer and mobile devices and look into possibly having the devices automatically wiped after a large number of incorrect password entries.

Assume Your Data Is Not Secure

Anyone can gather your data without much difficulty. Some countries monitor data and emails, while airports and hotels are generally public or semi-public internet hubs. Use a virtual private network (VPN) to ensure your privacy and to access websites that might be blocked by local internet providers. A VPN is a private and secure internet network that you can reach via any internet connection. Never submit sensitive payment information on websites if the browser shows “http” instead of “https.” Also, turn on two factor authentication on all of your email, banking and credit card accounts as an added measure of security (provided that you can receive text messages at your destination).

Download Apps

There are a variety of apps that can help keep you informed and secure while on the road such as Lookout mobile security solution. The State Department’s Smart Traveler app is available free of charge from both iTunes and the Google Play store. It’s a great source of information about specific countries, travel advisories and warnings.

Don’t Fry Your Devices

Make sure that you have the right adapters. Check the tech specs of your devices and the electrical standards of your travel destinations.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR ADJUSTING TO WARM WEATHER WORKOUTS

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR ADJUSTING TO WARM WEATHER WORKOUTS

As summer draws near, if you like to exercise outside, it may be time to make a few adjustments to your workout. Marni Sumbal, a prominent exercise physiologist and board-certified sports dietitian, shares her top tips for adjusting to warm weather workouts

Reduce the intensity, stay inside or work out during off-peak hours.

For the first month of hot weather, scale back until your body adjusts to the heat. Pushing too hard too soon can lead to fatigue or injuries. If you don’t want to reduce the intensity, work out either early in the morning or later in the evening, when the sun is down. You can also spend at least part of the workout indoors.

Hydrate.

You will sweat more in the summer, which can cause headaches, nausea or fatigue. During a 60-minute workout, drink 20 to 28 ounces of either water or a sports drink. Sports drinks can be especially helpful because they contain carbohydrates as well as electrolytes. Afterward, she suggests either tart cherry juice to help with inflammation or orange juice that quenches thirst and contains potassium.

Warm up

Do some dynamic stretches (movements while stretching) to activate the muscles, increase the blood flow and to get full range of motion.

Cool down

Take a cold bath (not ice) or a put a cold rag around your neck to reduce the body’s temperature. This helps you recover quicker by lowering your heart rate and increasing your appetite.

Soak in Epsom salt 

This repairs muscle damage and offsets delayed inflammation. About an hour after the cold shower, add 2 cups of Epsom salt to a lukewarm bath. Make sure the magnesium is absorbed, so soak for 20 to 40 minutes. If a bath isn’t an option,  scrub Epsom salt into your skin during a shower.

For more info on the benefits of Epsom salt click here

5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE THE PERFECT SUMMER PIMMS

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE THE PERFECT SUMMER PIMMS

HOW TO MAKE THE PERFECT SUMMER PIMMS

Bohemia’s Head Chef Steve Smith’s Tips on  How to make the Perfect Summer Pimms

On hot sunny days, nothing beats a glass of Pimms. For us Brits, guzzling a glass of refreshing Pimms as soon as the sun comes out is almost as much a tradition as the cup of tea!

With summer finally here, that refreshing jug of Pimms is set to be a table top essential for al fresco feasts. The quintessentially English beverage boasts a recognisable tawny colour and a delicious blend of citrus fruits, offering a familiar taste of summer. Bohemia’s Head Chef Steve Smith has provided a round-up of top tips to ensure you’re serving the perfect party Pimms this sunny season.

Fruit Fusion

Don’t overload your Pimms with fruit. Instead, pick a few strong flavours that complement each other. An unusual flavour combination that works well is Pomegranate and Basil. Alternatively, take your Pimms to super food heights with the quirky addition of trendy Acai berries.

Herbal Remedy

If you’re using herbs such as basil and mint, crush the leaves before adding them to your drink. This will maximise the aroma and leave your Pimms perfectly seasoned.

Cue the Cranberry

Those with a sweet tooth might like to add a splash of cranberry juice, or opt for flavoured lemonade for an extra boost.

Ice, Ice, Baby

Get creative with your ice by freezing flowers into your ice cube tray. However, try to limit the ice to a few cubes to ensure the Pimms isn’t too diluted by the time it comes to drinking it!

Sugar-coat it

Sprinkle a little lemon juice and sugar over the fruit before you add them to your drink. Let the fruit pieces stand for ten minutes so they macerate and then add them to the liquid at the last minute, to save them from going soggy.

Bohemia is the only restaurant in the Channel Islands to be listed in The Sunday Times Top 100 Restaurants and is ranked at number 49. Bohemia also recently received the highest score in the Channel Islands in the Good Food Guide 2016 with a glowing score of 7, its highest score yet, and was listed as the best restaurant in Jersey in the guide’s ‘Top 50 Restaurants in the UK’.

Bohemia Bar & Restaurant, Green Street, St. Helier, Jersey JE2 4UH, Channel Islands

For reservations call: 01534 880 588 or visit www.bohemiajersey.com

THE IDEAL LONDON RESTAURANT OPENINGS OF 2017 SO FAR

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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THE IDEAL LONDON RESTAURANT OPENINGS OF 2017 SO FAR

As we’ve reached the midway point of the year we thought it good, for posterity’s sake, to celebrate some great restaurant openings our fare capital has already seen this year.

Rick Stein, Barnes

It comes as a surprise that Rick Stein, the ubiquitous, international chef and T.V personality, had not yet ventured into London. He has chosen a beautiful location to change all that – his first London opening, in Barnes, overlooks the Thames river with a view which perfectly captures the vibe of the fish-friendly menu. Our love for Mr. Stein is unwavering and we are just as excited about the chance to see him strolling round picturesque Richmond as we are to taste his beautiful, fresh seafood offerings.

Address:  Tideway Yard, 125 Mortlake High St, London SW14 8SN, UK

Website: www.rickstein.com

Farang, Highbury

Seb Holmes, formally of IDEAL magazine favourite Smoking Goat, has taken up a 6 month residency in a Highbury pub. Farang offers superb take-no-prisoners Thai food which focuses on regional cuisine and great beer to match. A winning formula currently in London which shows no signs of slowing, and a city which is all the better for it.

Address: 72 Highbury Park, Highbury East, London N5 2XE, UK

Website: www.faranglondon.co.uk

Bibendum, Chelsea

Probably the most talked about opening of the year so far anywhere, Claude Bosi has taken the helm at the good ship Bibendum and steered it in a new and exciting direction. Doffing its beret to French classical cooking but with typical Bosi wit and charm, Bibendum has been wowing punters and restaurant critics alike since re-opening. The breathtaking stained glass windows when the sun is shining give a feeling of real occasion to match the stunning food. Expect stars to follow.

Address: Michelin House, 81 Fulham Rd, Chelsea, London SW3 6RD, UK 

Website: bibendum.co.uk

Radici, Islington

Franceso Mazzei has already made quite the name for himself in London with a series of brilliant, if not challenging price-wise, restaurants. His latest in Radici seems to have finally hit a sweet spot – his excellent, hearty southern Italian cooking still shines, but prices are keen, even for London. We’re so happy to have found a Mazzei restaurant which can be enjoyed on a quiet Tuesday night rather than only for a special occasion.

Address: 30 Almeida St, London N1 1AD, UK

Website: www.radici.uk 

Hai Cenato, Victoria

Jason Atherton has done so much for the capital’s dining scene and beyond. That his appetite for new and exciting openings hasn’t been sated is to the benefit of every hungry London resident. Hai Cenato channels the New York diners run by Italian migrant families, with a welcoming vibe and excellent home cooking classics, done with the precision one expects from a chef and restaurateur of his calibre. There’s also a deli with premium ingredients if you fancy cooking the food of Italy at home.

Address: 2 Sir Simon Milton Square, London SW1E5DJ, UK

Website: haicenato.co.uk

TOP 5 IDEAL BURGERS IN LONDON

Rachel Stevenson
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TOP 5 IDEAL BURGERS IN LONDON

Hello is it MEAT you’re looking for? Everyone claims they do the best burgers in town but that’s a big fat lie. There’s nothing worse than a disappointing burger when you’re expecting the greatest one in town. So to help you avoid a burger bummer, here’s our sizzling guide to London’s top burgers – separating the very best from those substandard patties and soggy buns. 

HONEST BURGERS

Inspired by British produce, an Honest Burger is a thing of beauty – the hand pressed beef patty is served perfectly medium rare and the bun is glazed and can take the juices of the meat – it’s pure burger brilliance. Their signature hand-cut rosemary chips could just be the best chips around. With a number of outlets all over London, this is our go-to place for a burger whenever we crave meat – it’s honestly that good.

Website : www.honestburgers.co.uk

MEATLIQOUR

This meat-centric group of restaurants serve unashamedly dirty burgers with a whole lotta grease. Anyone of them are the ideal place to go when you want to do some intentional damage to your arteries. There’s nothing dainty about the burgers here. Their hippy burger has gained a cult following and deservedly so – the infamous secret Dead Hippie sauce is to die for.

Website: meatliquor.com

PATTY & BUN

Patty and Bun are known for their quality beef patties, but we are in love with their Lamb Shank Redemption burger, maybe it’s the wonderfully juicy lamb patty or the buttermilk baby courgettes or the creamy feta or the cumin aioli which gives a little heat, or maybe it’s all free – every ingredient of this burger works perfectly together. They also pay equal attention to their gloriously juicy and crispy chicken burger – KFC this ain’t.

Website: www.pattyandbun.co.uk

STOKEY BEARS *permanently closed*

Burger aficionado’s looking for something a little different will love this place. Try the Grizzly Bear topped with double oak smoked bacon and beer burger jam – it’s a thing of beauty and pure joy to eat.  As far as we know, there is no other burger in London like this and you may get emotionally attached to it because it’s that good.

Stokey Bears has now sadly closed.

MOTHER FLIPPER

Selling burgers from a street stall, these burgers are mother flipping good. You could dislocate your jaw on their Dirty Barbie burger (double pattie, double cheese, candy bacon, candy onions, bbq sauce) but it would be worth it. You’ll usually find Mother flipper flipping their burgers each Saturday at Brockley market, but they occasionally pop up at other joints in London including Street Feast.

Website: motherflipperburgers.com

THE IDEAL BREAKFAST FOR FATHER’S DAY

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL BREAKFAST FOR FATHER’S DAY

This Father’s day, kiss bland cereals and dry toast goodbye! Instead, wake up your old man with the King of all breakfast’s, with this cloud egg and smoked haddock dish. You can expect protein and flavour in equal measures.

Serves 2:

  • 2 eggs
  • 2 smoked haddock fillets
  • 3 slices of streaky bacon, cut into small pieces  
  • 50g of grated cheese
  • A handful of spinach
  • Black pepper

For the cheddar and chive sauce:

  • 60ml of milk
  • 60 ml of cream
  • 1 tbsp. of butter
  • 1 tbsp. of flour
  • 1 egg yolk
  • A tsp. of chives
  • A sprinkling of cinnamon
  • 1 cup of finely grated cheddar cheese 
  • Salt and pepper, to season

Step 1: Place 2 smoked haddock fillets into a pre-heated oven (180C) and cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until done. Meanwhile, separate your eggs and set the 2 yolks aside.

Step 2: Whisk the egg whites and carefully fold in the grated cheese and streaky bacon.

Step 3: Use the whisked egg mixture to create two small, raised circles on a baking try, on top of non-stick parchment paper. Make a well in the middle of each circle so you can add in the yolk later.   

Step 4: Put the egg mixture in the oven for approximately 5/6 minutes. Remove from the oven and place the yolks into the two wells, then put the baking tray back into the oven for approximately 3 minutes.

Step 5: Meanwhile, make the sauce by melting the butter in a saucepan and adding in the flour, whisking with a folk for 1 minute. Combine the milk and cream, then add to the saucepan slowly, whisking until the thick. Add in an egg yolk and cook for 30 seconds, on a low heat.

Step 6: Next, add in the cheese to the sauce mixture and stir until well combined. Add the cinnamon and season with salt and pepper, then remove from the heat.

Step 7: To finish, stack up your breakfast. Begin with a handful of spinach, then place the haddock fillet on top, drizzling the cheddar and chive sauce on top. Finish by delicately placing the cloud eggs on top…and enjoy.

Saucy Top Tip: Speed things up before Dad wakes up by using The Saucy Fish Co.’s Cook from Smoked Haddock, with a Vintage Cheddar and Chive sauce.

Recipe courtesy of The Saucy Fish Co. – now available in the freezer aisle. For more info visit www.thesaucyfishco.com

6 SUMMER SKINCARE MUST HAVES

Rachel Stevenson
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6 SUMMER SKINCARE MUST HAVES

If you’ve booked your summer holiday, but the thought of paring down to your strappy sandals, backless halter tops and sundresses fills you with fear, take a look at our host of quick fix beauty indulgences.  These top-to-toe lotions and potions will help you prepare to bare for your sizzling summer holiday ahead.

TO NOURISH

Whip your skin up into hydration heaven this summer with this luxurious and nourishing Body Butter from Grace Cole £6. Brimming with natural actives, this indulgent and exquisite skin saviour will leave the skin feeling nourished and fragrantly soft.

TO SCRUB

Tackle problem areas with this skin boosting Grace Cole Boutique Radiance Body Scrub £5  designed to leave skin feeling softer, firmer and more toned. Perfect for everyday use it’s enriched with natural extracts. It’s light and moisturising formula will gently remove dead skin cells and impurities to leave the skin feeling silky soft and glowing with radiance.

TO HYDRATE

Aloe Vera gel is a traditional skin soother and is moisturising and healing for the skin.  This award-winning  hydrating gel from Pure Light Botanics contains organic Aloe Vera to help cool and calm stressed or sun exposed skin.  It has a light, cooling texture and is packed with antioxidants. At only £10 it’s a summer skin care essential and your skin will be eternally grateful for it. 

TO PROTECT

Holiday means sunny weather so sun protection is a must! Avoid the harsh chemicals and pore-clogging ingredients that are found in most sun screens. Try one made primarily from natural ingredients, such as Green People’s ‘No Scent Sun Lotion SPF 30’ (£21).

TO COVER 

Improve stretch marks, skin tone and texture before you step into the sunshine with this Remescar Stretch Mark Cream  (£24.95). It’s an easily absorbed, hypoallergenic, odourless and paraben-free cream that uses the same technology as the treatment stick but is specifically formulated to prevent and treat stretch marks.

TO HEAL

The Remescar Silicone scar stick  (£19.95) is an easy to apply stick similar in size to a sun care or deodorant stick that helps to heal old and new scars resulting from burns, insect bites, acne and stretch marks. The stick can be carried anywhere, will last up to three months when applied twice a day and is invisible upon application so can be worn under make up.

10 IDEAL THINGS TO PACK FOR A TRIP TO IBIZA

Rachel Stevenson
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10 IDEAL THINGS TO PACK FOR A TRIP TO IBIZA

So you’ve booked your flights to Ibiza and you’ve found a beautiful beach front hotel, but you have no idea what do you pack? Anna Grotkamp, founder of luxury beachwear boutique and beauty spa B LONDON, shares with IDEAL her list of essential things to pack for Ibiza for some fun in the sun…

Bikinis.. and more Bikinis…

Ibiza has some of the most beautiful beaches and beach clubs in Europe so you need a few nice bikinis for your holiday. I always start with a dark one for the first few days until I have a bit of a tan and then save a white one for the end of the holiday to show off the tan. A cut out Costume is also a 2105 must for the many beach clubs!

A good Kaftan

Handy to have to throw over for Lunch and more importantly to take you from Beach to Beach Party in an instant. Glam it up with a statement necklace or some cut off denims and you’re good to go. Ibiza is very laid back bohemian chic so a nice tasseled, embroidered Top or Kaftan will be your essential suitcase piece.

Some Comfortable Wedges or cute Ankle Boots

Super high heels are a big no no in Ibiza as many of the beach bars and clubs are literally on the beach and not that easy to walk to, unless you want to get your heels stuck in the wooden walk ways or sand (been there, done that, and not a good look ☺).. so Grab some comfy wedges or Ankle Boots and dance the night away, comfortably and still in style!

Straw Sun Hat

Ibiza is getting super hot so to save your head and sunstroke, grab a cool hat and wear during the really hot afternoons. Also good after a big Ibiza party night to have a little siesta in the shade!

Cool Sunglasses

An Ibiza Must! For beaches, parties, and lazy afternoons and to hide all the Ibiza Late Nights, I always pack 2 pairs of sunglasses and dress up my outfits as and when. Also, the sun is so bright you need them all day, every day!

Sunscreen & After Sun

I always pack a high factor for my face and body, as even on cloudy days the sun is still super strong here and you underestimate it. Keep that tan going extra long by slathering on lots of After Sun and moisturizer. Add a few drops of Shimmer Oil or mix some bronzer pearls to your normal moisturizer before going out and you’ll be glistening through the night and avoid all peeling.

Read: 5 IDEAL ways to maintain healthy skin after sun exposure

Clutch Bag

You don’t need much on a night out here and Cloak rooms are very rare, so take a cute clutch that you can put across body and keep it to Essentials; lip gloss,  CC card, ID or Driving License (as you need this for the clubs), some cash, your hotel key and your phone to take lost of pics. You’ll see some crazy things on the White Isle.

Accessories

A statement necklace, chunky belt or cocktail ring can jazz up any outfit and even on the beaches you’ll see the Spanish Chicas layering up the accessories so bring a few to jazz up simple outfits and add some glam.  A big hit this year are also the Gold and Silver Temporary Tattoos so pack some, add some, and sparkle away! 

A good book

Even though Ibiza is mostly known as the Party Island, this is only one side of the beautiful island. There are some incredible hidden, secluded beaches to discover. When you’re all partied out or fancy a change, grab a good book and head to some crystal clear waters. If you’re here for more than a few days, nothing beats a day trip to Formentera where you will find some of the most beautiful beaches IN THE WORLD! 

Vitamins & Paracetamol

However much you intend to simply relax and unwind in Ibiza, you’ll most likely experience at least one late night or hangover while you’re here, so pack some Alka seltzer and B12 Vitamins before you go. Drink plenty of water, keep hydrated and eat some fresh fruit and you’ll be back to normal in no time!

6 LIFE LESSONS THAT F.R.I.E.N.D.S TAUGHT US

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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For us 90’s kids there are life lessons our parents taught us, life lessons we learnt on our own, and then there are life lessons that F.R.I.E.N.D.S taught us. If you grew up watching the show, then chances are you’ll be able to relate to the below lessons of life from F.R.I.E.N.D.S – we don’t know where we would be without them.

It’s ok fall in love with your best friend

Honestly who doesn’t want a relationship like Chandler and Monica? They’ve taught us that falling in love with your best friend is totally fine. After all, they are the person who has been there for you through thick and thin. They care for you, love you despite all your flaws and you know you can count on them. And you obviously get on with them really well – otherwise they wouldn’t be your friend. Who else better to fall in love with?

You don’t have to have everything figured out by the time you’re 30

You don’t have to have it all figured out by 30 (or really by any age) because life is a constant journey and will throw a curveball at you when you least expect it.  Throughout the series, the characters go through loads of highs and lows –  think Joey losing his job, Monica breaking up with Richard and Rachel moving to Paris. But despite all these peaks and troughs, in the end it all works out ok. 

You can change your career at any age

It usually hits people around the age of 30 – that horrible, stomach knotty feeling that you’ve achieved most of what you wanted to in your career, and yet the prospect of doing the same job until you retire is DEEPLY depressing. If you get to this stage where you’re job just isn’t doing it for you any more, F.R.I.E.N.D.S  taught us that you don’t have stick to it. Just look to Chandler for motivation. Throughout most of the series he was some sort of statistical analysis who hated his job. But in season 9 he quits his job and eventually finds work with an advertising agency and loves it. Just like Chandler, changing career could be the best decision you ever make.

Nobody can actually keep a secret

Yep it’s true, nobody can actually keep a secret. Most of us are overcome by a burning desire to share gossip as soon as we hear it. Especially if you’re best friend is sleeping with another best friend, or if your best friend is pregnant with your other best friends baby. In fact, according to a study, the average person will typically spill the beans to at least one other person in 47 hours and 15 minutes. Speaking of secrets, these FRIENDS secrets from europalace are juicy, but ssshhh – we didn’t tell you.

It is okay to be yourself

Phoebe’s songs and general weirdness, Joey’s simple thoughts and bad eating habits, Chandler’s jokes, Ross’s dinosaurs, Monica’s cooking and obsessive cleaning and Rachel’s love for shopping. F.R.I.E.N.D.S  taught us that everyone has their own little idiosyncrasies, but it’s totally fine to embrace them and be yourself because your true friends will love you no matter what.

If you’re meant to be, you’ll be

Ross and Rachel have a turbulent relationship to say the least. There was the one with the break, the one where they got married in Vegas, the one with the list, the one where Ross said the wrong name – need we go on. However, these guys taught us that sometimes, if you are meant to be with someone, you end up being with that person, no matter what happens in between.

 

 

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