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IDEAL SUMMER WORKOUT TIPS WITH FITNESS FIRST

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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IDEAL SUMMER WORKOUT TIPS WITH FITNESS FIRST

bikini

Summer Workout from Fitness First: Discover your bikini body with this confidence boosting workout from the experts at Fitness First

With only weeks to go until bikini season,  we have spoken to Fitness First Health & Fitness Expert Paul Cheeseman who has come up with a set of simple but effective tips to help you step onto the beach with confidence.

This 30 minute circuit workout is a great way to combine cardio and weight training together so you can burn fat and tone up at the same time as well as increase endurance and stamina. Combine this with a positive mindset, and you’ll see a real difference on those legs, bums and tums!

Squat Jump

The squat jump will give your leg muscles a workout and get your heart pumping. Stand with your feet roughly shoulder-width apart, then slowly bend your legs  and arms to about 90 degrees at the same time. Once your thighs are parallel to the floor, explode into the air as high as you can go. Land softly and repeat the motion again. Perform eight to 10 repetitions, or 20 to 25 seconds for a timed circuit. Modify the reps or time to suit your fitness level if the workout seems too difficult or not difficult enough.

Push-Ups

The basic push-up is an exercise that will strengthen your triceps, shoulders and chest. Including push-ups in your circuit training routine will help to give a complete body workout. Do eight  to ten push-ups to start, then increase as your level of fitness increases. Perform push-ups for 10 to 20 seconds as part of a timed routine.

Lunges

Lunges will strengthen and tone your thighs and buttocks. You can either step out into a lunge position then return to the start and repeat, or alternate legs in a continuous walking motion across the floor. Lunges can be performed with no added weight or with a dumbbell in each hand for more of a challenge. Start with eight to 10 reps or 20 to 25 seconds and modify the resistance or reps according to your fitness level.

V-Ups

The V-up can be a challenging exercise for people with weaker abdominal muscles. Lie on your back and extend your arms up over your head. Raise your upper and lower body at the same time, keeping your arms and legs straight to form a “V.” Lower yourself slowly and repeat. Aim for eight to 10 repetitions or 20 seconds, but don’t push yourself too hard because the V-up is a difficult exercise.

 

THE 10 IDEAL HAIR CARE COMMANDMENTS

Rachel Stevenson
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THE 10 IDEAL HAIR CARE COMMANDMENTS

Save your hair from the damage caused by our hair demons with these 10 hair care commandments

Have you been living in a life of hair sin?  We all have those hair-dehydrating demons including sun overexposure, blowing drying, curling or straightening that we succumb to. However, help is at hand. To save you from doing more evil to your hair, we asked Claire Whitehouse from The Beauty collective for her top 10 hair care rules that everyone should live by. Follow these 10 hair care commandments and you will definitely be on the virtuous path to hair heaven.

1. Thou shall build a hair-tool artillery

There’s just never a hair-tie when you need it and you could have just brought a pack of 100 bobby pins and still struggle to find one. Invest in a great storage case and keep all your hair tools organised and in one place, then you can spend your time on mastering that new-do rather than searching for the tool you need. Use a fashionable, small cosmetic case/purse that fits in your handbag to transport what you need for the day.

2. Thou shall give your hair a break 

Wearing tight hairstyles on a regular basis isn’t great for the health of your hair as it creates tension at the root of the hair and scalp. Wearing a hair tie or hairpin in the same spot can also cause breakage to your hair so alternate your hairstyles to give your hair a break.

3. Remember conditioner is your friend

It’s a good idea to leave a little bit of conditioner in your hair when you’ve finished washing, you don’t need to rinse it all out. It will help with a smooth blow dry and will keep ends nourished. Alternatively, try Argania’s Cashmere Hair leave-in conditioner; it really is a hair routine essential for smooth glossy locks and if my hair is feeling particularly dry, their Liquid Gold Hair Oil is an absolute dream!

4. Thou shall seek natural solutions

Use of harsh chemicals isn’t healthy for you or the environment so it’s best to embrace the natural beauty of your hair and avoid/rarely use heavily chemical based products. With this in mind it is important that you have checked the ingredients and know what you’re reading. Most of us have heard its best to seek shampoos that don’t contain sulfates or parabens but there are other ingredients that can sound scary but are in-fact naturally derived and provide real benefits for your hair.

Everyone has their own viewpoints and levels of concern so I try and do my research and source products based on how they fit into my own set of criteria. The Argania range is ethically sourced and packed with essential oils and powerful anti-oxidants.

5. Thou shall not forget the basics

It’s easy with our busy lifestyles to forget even the simplest of hair rules like never picking at spilt ends or never sleeping with your hair wet. Try not to get lazy or absentmindedly forget the basics, those things your mother taught you still apply today.

6. Thou shall not use hot-tools everyday

Yes we all love them but excessive use of our heat styling tools is damaging to hair and can cause some serious dryness and breakage, try and give them a rest every now and then and break the addiction. If your hairs feeling too unruly to leave the house just style in a sleek pulled back pony or messy top knot and distract with accessories.

7. Thou shall master the blow-dry

Before a mortgage or kids and when my hair was young and healthy I used to pay for a once weekly wash and blow-dry. This would, believe it or not, last the entire week without having to wash in-between.  Unfortunately now my hair and lifestyle have both aged that luxury has since been abandoned so I’ve had to master the blow-dry myself and have learnt its all in the prep and tools.

Its not necessary to use the hottest heat on your hairdryer to get the best blow wave, a high speed on a warm setting is as good as hot. Before blow-drying remove as much moisture as you can with a towel (the micro-fibre kind is best) and to reduce frizz don’t scrunch with the towel just squeeze.

8. Trust in the experts

Even if you’ve had a run of good hair days and can nail a DIY blow-dry it’s still important to make a regular appointment with your hairdresser. They will deal with any problems you might be having as well as help to maintain the condition of your hair. Everyone’s ‘regular’ is different so there’s no need to make it a 6 weekly appointment, after getting a great Balayage colour recently I find I only need to visit my lovely hairdresser quarterly now.

9. Thou shall try new stuff

Although it’s important to follow a few hair commandments we can also all benefit from sometimes just throwing our usual hair routine out the window and trying some new things. There are innovations in hair care appearing all the time, some are fads that come and go but others really could be the perfect partner for your hair. Keep up with the latest hair trends so you don’t miss the opportunity to try something that could very well be the answer to your hair prayers.

10. Honour your hair for what it is

I’m not sure we ever come to terms with the hair that we’re given, I always hated my curls and longed for smooth straight hair and my best friend always wished she had the body and fullness of my curls. The most important thing is to not criticise ourselves for the hair we have, accept there’s some hair looks that we can’t achieve or just wont look good and work with what we’ve got!

IDEAL TIPS: HOW TO BEAT THOSE SUMMER BLUES

Rachel Stevenson
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IDEAL TIPS: HOW TO BEAT THOSE SUMMER BLUES

TOP TIPS: HOW TO BEAT THOSE SUMMER BLUES

Many of us have heard of ‘winter blues’ but did you know that 1/10 of all SAD cases suffer from the condition in the summer, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

This is known as reverse seasonal affective disorder, but just like winter-onset SAD reverse seasonal affective disorder returns every year at about the same time. Winter SAD is linked to a lack of sunlight, but summer SAD is thought to be the reverse – it is suggested that too much sunshine can lead to modulations in melatonin production, leading some of us to feel down.

To help beat the blues, the natural way, Shona Wilkinson, Nutritionist at SuperfoodUK.com the online shopping destination for health & wellbeing shares her top tips:

Eat yourself happy

Look at your diet: By cutting down on sugar and alcohol we can help to balance out yo-yoing moods. Both these substances increase a neurotransmitter called dopamine. Dopamine makes us feel rewarded and pleasurable but this doesn’t last forever and – once levels fall – we can feel lower than we did before. So as tempting as chocolate bars look, especially when we feel low, try to stay away from sugar.

Eat oily fish twice a week, snack on chia seeds or try taking a supplement, as fatty acids are great ‘brain’ food and can help to fight mood swings. Our brain is made up to 18% of Omega-3s, however, we don’t produce them, and so they have to be sources from outside.

Don’t forget about proteins! They are broken down in the body to make amino acids and then used to create neurotransmitters, which are responsible for keeping our mind and mood balanced. Go for: nuts, seeds, meat, fish, bean and lentils, whey protein and eggs.

4 ways to boost your happy hormone

Serotonin, also known, as the ‘happy hormone’ is a chemical produced by our brain and intestines that works as a neurotransmitter, helping us to relay signals from one area of the brain to another. It is mainly responsible for maintaining mood balance and if you are deficient, this can lead to anxiety, low mood or even depression.

Balance your gut flora

Unfortunately, due to our diet, lifestyle and stress levels most of us struggle with an imbalance of gut flora. Try taking high-quality probiotics to restore your intestinal flora and include fermented foods in your daily diet. Think: kefir, pickles, sauerkraut or miso.

Get moving!

Daily exercise is the easiest and the most effective way to increase your serotonin level. However, make sure you chose an activity that you really like and enjoy. If you feel like you are forcing yourself it may not have the right effect. That may be a result of our ancient instincts. Our brain can tell the difference between running because you’re hunting something, and running because it’s hunting you.

Go socialise

Oxytocin is another ‘feel good’ hormone. Released when we bond socially and feel general trust, comfort and love, this hormone is just as powerful as serotonin. Whenever you feel low and need a lift, spend time with your family and friends to mellow down and feel instantly better.

Take magnesium

If you are feeling tired, irritated and struggle to get up every morning, Magnesium is an excellent mineral to take as it plays a major role in the development of serotonin. Magnesium is known as ‘natures tranquiliser’ and is needed to relax our muscles and nerves, helping us to fall into a peaceful sleep; it can also increase energy levels and help us to feel better about ourselves.

 

10 IDEAL CLEANING TIPS TO GET YOUR HOME SUMMER PARTY READY

Rachel Stevenson
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10 IDEAL CLEANING TIPS TO GET YOUR HOME SUMMER PARTY READY

The nights are lighter, the days are warmer and everyone’s in the mood to socialise and have fun and what better way than a party? There’s food to prepare, an outfit to choose and most importantly, we need to clean!

Cleaning is probably the most dreaded part of your party preparation. However we’re here to make it simple and easy so you can focus on getting yourself ready for the party. With the help from the cleaning excerpts at Vax, here are 10 tips on how to get your home summer party ready, a checklist if you will.

WASH YOUR WINDOWS

It may be difficult to avoid during this sunny season, but try not to clean your windows on a warm day as they will dry too quickly and probably streak. On sunny days, you can see every mark and smear on your windows so it’s essential you clean them before your party. Plus, if they’re squeaky clean, more light will shine through. A good tip is to use the traditional method of scrunched up newspaper and your preferred glass cleaner for the best shine.

WASH DOWN GARDEN FURNITURE

If the weather is nice, you may want to pop outside and enjoy the warm evening breeze, but you don’t want to do that sitting on furniture layered with moss and dirt. Wash down your garden furniture with hot, soapy water with a splash of bleach in it to get rid of any dirt or stubborn stains. While we’re talking about furniture, here’s how to create the ultimate garden chill-out area – ideal for your summer party.

TIDY UP OUTSIDE

If you want your garden to be instagram ready for your party, this is the perfect time to break out your pressure washer; they’re small but pack a mighty punch and will clear the pathway (literally!) to cleaner, brighter patio and decking.

The guys at Hotsy Equipment Company recommend using a patio wash tool attachment for the quickest clean. If you decide you’ll want to throw some meat on the barbecue to feed your guests, a pressure washer is the perfect solution for giving it that well deserved clean without the effort. Speaking of cleaning tools…

INVEST IN THE RIGHT TOOLS

You want to spend as little time as possible cleaning so we recommend going cordless with your vacuum, as it’s faster and much more convenient. If there’s a few crumbs that need picking up or a last minute dust around, you don’t have to get your vacuum out from the cupboard then unravel the cord, plug it in and so on.

We’re also big fans of steam cleaning here at IDEAL. Steam cleaning is a fun, easy and some say an addictive way to hygienically clean a huge range of surfaces around your home, all with one machine. A multifunctional steam cleaner can be used to clean floors, door handles, upholstery, and you can even use a window attachment for your windows and glass. The uses are unlimited and it means you don’t have to switch between different cloths, sprays, liquids and brushes. They certainly make a fast but effective cleaning option before a party.

DUST YOUR DUST

This seems like an obvious thing to do, but we’ve found an even quicker way than using a duster is to use a lint roller. You can swiftly remove dust from lampshades and furniture by rolling it over dusty objects and fabrics.

CLEAN YOUR KITCHEN BIN

While we doubt anyone will be rooting around in your bin, the kitchen is often a focal area of a party so it’s best to make sure the bin doesn’t pong. The best way to clean it is to take it into the shower and give it a good scrub down with hot soapy water or diluted bleach. This will eliminate any lingering smells and ensure its germ free.

WHAT SMELLS SO GOOD?

Often, when you think of the best elements of summer, it’s the scents of the season that come to mind; freshly cut grass, flowers in bloom, even summer rain showers – and you want your summer party to be associated with the best of the season. Invest in a diffuser or some summer scented candles.

You could also try spraying perfume or rubbing scented oil on a cool lightbulb instead, then when its dried turn the light on and it will emit a lovely fragrance all around your home. However, as the clever guys at WikiHOW warn “avoid getting oil on the base that screws into the light socket. Also avoid putting oil on incandescent or halogen light bulbs because they can get very hot and burn. Your light bulb may have a shorter lifespan as a result”.

SINKS & DRAINS

Sinks and drains can carry more germs than your toilet bowl! Yes you did read that correctly.  Make sure you use a sufficient drain cleaner that will deodorise any smells, and use bleach to disinfect any lingering germs. A sink is a much visited area during a party and you want to make sure it smells and looks clean.

DISINFECT WITH SPONGE

If an accidental wine glass knocks onto the floor the last thing you want is to reveal your dirty sauce-stained sponge to the world. Make sure it’s stain free and if you want to quickly disinfect before the party, pop it in the microwave for a few minutes until steam arises and the germs should be gone.

DON’T FORGET THE HALLWAY

It’s so important to create a good first impression and your hallway is the first glimpse visitors have of your home. So make sure you have a clean doormat for feet and wash your door with hot soapy water. Your hall is a high traffic area, so ensuring the floors are clean and clutter is stored away is also important.

Now it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy your summer party! But before you know it the fun is over and you’ll need to prepare for a post party clean up. We know it’s horrible thinking about cleaning the day after a party, but it has to be done.

Don’t forget to clean sticky surfaces, put bags full of rubbish in the skip and tackle any stains. If the worst should happen and someone spills wine on your carpet, first pat it gently with kitchen roll (don’t rub) to absorb as much of the liquid as possible and then use an extraction carpet cleaner for best results.

After more cleaning tips? Here’s how to remove the top 10 summer stains, including ketchup, wine, grass and more.

5 IDEAL AUTUMN FASHION TRENDS: WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT TO SEE IN 2017

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL AUTUMN FASHION TRENDS: WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT TO SEE IN 2017

Once the summer has passed and the leaves begin to turn brown, dressing gets difficult. Autumn is a real mixed bag weather-wise, so it’s difficult to know how to dress. 

If you’re worrying that you have nothing to wear for autumn, do not despair. We can confirm that belted coats, fishnets, and vintage-inspired fur coats are all returning to our wardrobes this season.

Together with Trilogy Stores, below we reveal more about the hottest trends to expect this autumn. By following our guide, you’ll be able to make the most of autumnal-chic, and glide effortlessly into the winter months without any fashion faux pas.

Belted coats

A belted coat is perfect during autumn, as it is an ideal statement piece to keep warm whilst strolling through the park. Expressing effortless sophistication, the belt adds and extra layer of depth to your coat and helps to define your waistline in a way that is flattering.

Whether you decide to wear a statemented fur jacket, or opt for a for a leather trench coat – the belt is a refining piece within this ensemble, which can be knotted or fastened depending on your look.

Alongside the belted coat, wide waisted belts are also making an appearance this autumn; they can be worn over your coat, or, they can be added to an evening dress that will help to define your curves. Browns, blacks, and reds are colours that aren’t only popular, but help you to channel the natural colours of the season. However, if you’re worrying about keeping warm this autumn – Jumper 1234 are sure to keep you warm with fashionable designs that appeal to the comforting colours of the season.  

Suiting in style

This trend is set to go global by September: the female suit. Not only does it keep you warm during the colder months, it also produces a look that is powerful.

Elegantly designed slacks and pressed double-breasted jackets are all the rage this autumn; together with pronounced shoulders and shoulder-width trousers, the suit helps to reappropriate a masculine look for the female fashion-forward. Don’t worry, this isn’t a return of the eighties; it’s power-dressing in 2017.

True blue

Summer is all about eye-catching pinks, and dashing scarlets – but once the leaves begin to change colour, dusky modest blues define autumn. Labelled as the new ‘it’ colour, the moody notes incorporated by dark blues within an outfit can really make a lasting impression.

Wear a pale blue shirt with slim-fitting grey trousers for an outfit that is subtle yet striking, or why not try a brighter coloured blue mac to create a contrast between your outfit and the autumnal environment around you?

Nylon jacket

Whether you’re going to a festival, or walking through town, a nylon coat is the transitional outerwear that you’ve been looking for. Without fear of any wrinkles, this type of coat is similar to a mac, and can be packed away in your suitcase to take to any event without any hassle.

These futuristic, cutting edge jackets can be worn casually with flats, or can be worn on the evening with a pair of high boots or heels; blacks, browns, and greens are all this autumn – so wear subtle colours underneath to pull off a look that’s striking without having to make the effort.

Fishnets

The fishnet trend is going to be strong this season and we love it. Fishnets are more interesting than opaque black tights and can add an edgy look to your outfit. Wear your fishnet tights under ripped jeans or pair with a pencil skirt.

4 IDEAL TIPS FOR PLANNING THE PERFECT SUMMER HOLIDAY

Rachel Stevenson
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4 IDEAL TIPS FOR PLANNING THE PERFECT SUMMER HOLIDAY

The summer holidays are finally here, and the prospect of sea, surf, sand and sangria looms.  Holidays are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and enjoy some quality time with your loved ones.  However, planning where to visit for your summer holidays can be anything bit relaxing. From wonderful New York holidays to places closer to home, there’s plenty to see and do both abroad and in the UK, making the dilemma of where to go pretty stressful.  To help, here’s 4 IDEAL tips for planning the perfect summer holiday.

DECIDE HOW MUCH YOU WANT TO SPEND

Unfortunately, money doesn’t grow on trees, which makes budgeting an important part of any holiday plan. While we might all like to travel first class and stay in a seven-star hotel, this isn’t always possible, so be realistic and think carefully about how much you want to spend. Budgeting tools from the likes of MAS will not only give you a detailed spending breakdown, they’ll also show you what’s left after all major bills have been paid – helping you to understand your finances better and to look for a vacation within your price range.

DECIDE WHERE YOU WANT TO GO

Once you know how much you want to spend you can then decide where you want to go. From the tumultuous mountains of France to the sandy beaches of Spain, there are many places to explore abroad, but if you’d rather stay closer to home, the UK is also packed with plenty of beauty spots and places definitely worth visiting. The choice really is yours, but remember if you go to a different country the culture and climate are likely to be unfamiliar so you might want to do some research before you jet off to foreign lands.

RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH

There’s something wonderfully magical about visiting a place you‘ve never been before, but as mentioned above, research is key. If you have a rough idea of what to expect, there’s a high chance you’ll feel more comfortable and relaxed in your new environment – at least for the short period you are there. Of course, you can’t get to know all the deep cultural aspects of a place via a guide book or the internet, but you can look up things such as the climate, currency, language, cuisine and such like. You’ll also find a host of essential Government travel advice online, which will also tell you where is and isn’t safe to visit at the present moment.

MAKE AN ITINERARY

Holidays are precious, so to avoid wasting time, try to draw up an itinerary before you leave. To do this, check out all the best places you want to visit and decide which days are best for excursions. If, for example, you are going to Limassol in Cyprus, you might decide to explore attractions such as the Zoo and new port one day before venturing up into the beautiful Troodos Mountains another.

Leave some free time for relaxing by the pool, eating lunch and for other activities that might come your way and you’ll be onto a winner. It’s worth bearing in mind that while an itinerary isn’t set in stone, it’ll help structure your trip and give it a purpose – but feel free to switch activities around if they don’t fit in with your day.

Summer is finally here, so get your thinking cap on and plan the perfect trip away.

RESTAURANT REVIEW: 108, COPENHAGEN – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR NEW, NEW-NORDIC

THE IDEAL FOOD TEAM
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RESTAURANT REVIEW: 108, COPENHAGEN – THE IDEAL PLACE FOR NEW, NEW-NORDIC

Back in the heady days of February, 2017, the most influential restaurant of modern times was closing its doors for the last time. Noma had spent the previous decade changing the game – those foraged petals on your plate? Noma. Fermented everything? Noma. ‘Last years + add ingredient here’? Noma. Split sauces? Noma. Chef residencies? Noma. The stripping away of formality in fine dining? Noma. Beards, white t-shirts and tattoos on chefs and servers alike? You guessed it, Noma.

Another legacy has been left. Restaurant 108, housed next to the smouldering rubble of its big brother, now carries the torch of the New Nordic, while maintaining a unique style all of its own.

Idea

With a waiting list for a seat at Noma, as well as the bill, stretching into the thousands, a more inclusive alternative was the want of so many culinary pilgrims. Those selfie hunters posing for photos next to the iconic sign are going to need somewhere to eat. 108 first started as a pop-up within the walls of Noma, and was successful enough to warrant its own space next door. The best thing about 108 is that it isn’t simply in thrall to its big brother’s ethos, it manages to stylistically differentiate itself and is all the more interesting for it.

Location

The warehouses in the Christianshavn area of central Copenhagen, on the waterfront, are atmospheric and beautiful in a minimalist, stripped back way. A short walk to the indoor market next door for a craft beer can cap off an evening here perfectly.

Atmosphere

The room is expansive, with high ceilings and wall to floor windows creating real space and a feeling of freedom. Chatter bounces around the room invitingly and light cascades in from river reflections. It’s both romantic and convivial. Big, sharing tables as well as more intimate, tucked away spots only add to this feeling. Service is informative and super friendly, just falling shy of feeling over familiar.

Food

‘Family’ plates are a focus here, and a key distinction from the looming presence of Mr. Redzepi. A huge grilled monkfish or glazed pork belly, for two or more, is the savvy option if you’re in a big group. Smaller plates with a big emphasis of seasonal, local vegetables are also available, delicious and thoughtful in equal measure.

Drink

Biodynamic wine takes centre stage. A sommelier is on hand, happy to point you in the right direction if your knowledge of this once esoteric drink choice isn’t extensive. The vibe is so pleasingly laid back that you won’t be judged in the slightest if you fancy just chugging back a few cold, craft beers from the tap.

Must Try

It sounds intimidating, but the raw lamb tartare with last year’s pickles is a joy – intriguing, beguiling and somehow familiar – the right recipe for a dish which sticks in your mind for a long time after eating it. Bear in mind the menu changes all the time, so this dish may not be there on your visit.

Why Go

Do not come here expecting Noma. 108 stands as a unique, enticing propostion, taking the best of the laid back service of which the New Nordic has so expertly honed, and channeling something altogether unique. The cooking is so thoughtful and delicate, yet still leaves you satisfied and sated. If you’re to choose one place in Copenhagen to experience the ever-evolving Scandi food ethos – go to 108.

*Unfortunately, as of September 2022, Restaurant 108 is now closed*

Address: Strandgade 108, 1401 København K, Denmark

Image sources: 108 Facebook 

5 IDEAL BEACHES IN CALIFORNIA

Rachel Stevenson
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With over 420 public beaches scattered across the 840 miles long coastline, beaches in California have a lot to offer. The most popular beach towns in California include San Diego, Santa Cruz, Malibu, Santa Monica and San Jose. So book cheap flights to these beautiful towns using one of the cheap flights apps and choose from surfing, sunbathing, hiking or just relaxing. Here’s a list of the best five beaches in California to help you get the most out of your vacation.

Coronado Central Beach

Coronado is a huge 1.5-mile long beach with mineral mica shining on its sand. This beach is located on a peninsula across the bay from San Diego. The beach gets full on the weekends and getting a free parking space can be difficult. This beach has the famous Hotel Del (open since 1888) as a backdrop and a number of shops and eateries within walking distance. Take cheap flights to San Diego and then a ferry to reach the beach. Visit with your family and park your chairs on the Coronado Beach to enjoy the sun. You can also get your pet dogs along as to the extreme north of Coronado there is a Dog Beach where canines can have fun.

Santa Monica State Beach

With the amazing Santa Monica Pier and its Ferris Wheel welcoming the visitors, this beach can accommodate thousands of visitors each day. The pier houses an amusement park, an aquarium, several restaurants and shops to make sure that the visitors get everything on the beach itself. Rides and water may be fun, but sunset at the end of the day steals the show. This stunning beach is most visited by Los Angeles residents.

Manhattan Beach

This beach is one of the most beautiful in the U.S. The beach has multimillion dollar beachfront homes in its backdrop. This beach is an example of a classic southern California beach full of volleyballs, surfers and sunbathers. There are no dining and shopping options on the beach. So for the same, you will have to visit the nearby Downtown Manhattan Beach.

El Matador State Beach

This beach is a favorite with photographers for snapping pictures of swimsuit models and stunning sunsets. To the north of Malibu, this small beach is a part of the Robert H. Meyer Memorial Beach. You have to hike a little to find your way down to the water. Walk along the beach to have a look at all the rock formations that grace the shore.

Capitola Beach

Located in the Capitola Village, the Capitola Beach is a favorite with kids and families for its proximity to restaurants, bathrooms and outdoor showers. The beach has its own parking lots so there’s hardly any issue over the parking space. Also there is free shuttle service from the parking lot to the beach so you don’t have to worry about carrying the beach gear or any other stuff that you are carrying to the beach. The multi-colored houses on the beach make for a lovely background. You can expect a lot of crowd if you are planning to visit the Beach on a weekend. Grab some last minute flights to San Jose and soak yourself in the cold water and warm sand

7 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO TAKE THE PERFECT PICTURE

Rachel Stevenson
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7 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO TAKE THE PERFECT PICTURE

Getting a good picture of yourself ain’t easy. However thanks to Beyond Certainty who are lighting experts, we know how to take a picture that won’t make you cringe.

According to Beyond Certainty, the secret to a good photo is to learn how to make the most out of your surroundings and use ambient lighting to your advantage. This will make the world of difference to your photos by softening features and adding warmth to your skin.

Below are their top tips on making the most of ambient lighting to get that perfect picture. By using these tips you’ll be sure to have lots of amazing photos to remember.

The Golden Hour

Avoid direct sunlight and taking a pic between 11 am and 1pm. If you are outdoors, the ‘golden hours’ to take a photo is in the early morning and late evening. This is when natural light is soft and you can escape the harshness of the midday sun, which can highlight imperfections.

Hollywood Lighting

Try “Hollywood lighting” for a dramatic portrait. Place a light high above and just to the side of yourself, angled down. This casts deep shadows that create a sense of volume.  Avoid placing light below you, this is called monster lighting for a reason.

Backlight rule

As a general rule, it’s best to put the light source behind you, so that it illuminates you. This creates a whimsical, dreamy feel to any photo.

Light is your friend

The further the light source, the harder the light.  Hard light can create hard edges and unflattering shadows. If you are having your photo taken indoors move lamps closer to you or vice versa for more flattering light.

Natural Light

Natural light sources offer some of the most flattering lighting possible. When using natural light, make sure the light is soft by taking your photo away from direct sunlight. Light from north facing windows, indirect window light, or shade underneath a tree will help capture you at your best by adding warmth to your photo.

Flash rules

As a rule don’t use your flash indoors. It mutes colour, casts shadows and is extremely harsh, which can make for an extremely unflattering portrait. Also, avoid using flash indoors as it leads to red eye.

Editing

Don’t leave the photos as they are – run them through your favourite editing packages such as instagram to remove all imperfections such as red eye. A quick touch up works wonders,

Beautiful light is all around us and can really impact the quality of a picture. When taking a good picture it’s essential to think about where the light is. By using ambient lighting correctly your photos will wow your chums when you inevitably upload them to Facebook.

6 IDEAL OUTDOOR LIGHTING TIPS FOR SUMMER

Rachel Stevenson
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6 IDEAL OUTDOOR LIGHTING TIPS FOR SUMMER

Want to make to most of your alfresco summer nights, look no further. Beyond Certainty who are AV and lighting experts have put together some IDEAL outdoor lighting tips to groove up your garden.

Outdoor Party Lanterns

Lanterns are the must have outdoor lighting staple. You can hang either simple paper or silk lanterns from a tree, fence or lantern hook. To make the most of your garden, place the outdoor lanterns in dark corners in your garden which will make it look bigger and really open it up.

Classic Fairy Lights

Fairy lights can be used as gorgeous garden lights that can give your outdoor area that extra sparkle.  Battery operated fairy lights are so versatile you can light up those areas you thought were impossible.

Connectable Festoon Lights

Similarly to the classic fairy light, connectable festoon lights are always a big summer favourite. These long lasting energy efficient lights are ideal for draping over hedges and bushes.

Waterproof Wireless Lights

Waterproof wireless uplighters can be used to create the perfect atmosphere in any outdoor space, they are fully programmable, and have an optimum battery life of 12 hours and do not need any messy power cables so are extremely versatile

LED Candles

 LED Candles are battery operated and can last for hours. They offer all the warmth and ambiance of soft flames that you get with real wax candles. These candles can come in many different colours and can create an enchanting, festive atmosphere that your guests will be sure to appreciate. Normal tea candles are ideal too.

Torches

Torches with oil lamps can emit a warm, gorgeous glow at the strike of a match. You can illuminate the darkest corner of your garden adding style, radiance and warmth to your garden.

 

5 IDEAL WAYS TO STAY SANE WHEN ASSEMBLING FLATPACK FURNITURE

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO STAY SANE WHEN ASSEMBLING FLATPACK FURNITURE

The following article is arranged in a random order, you have to assemble it yourself! We’re just joking – but even the thought of having to assemble something can induce feelings of fear and worry. Enter the world of flatpack furniture.

If you’ve put together a piece of flatpack furniture with a partner, then we bet you’ve quarelled with that partner about assembling it. Phrases like  “these instructions are wrong”; “there’s a missing piece”; and “it looks nothing like that in the picture!” get thrown about and can cause arguments in an already tense situation.

Online furniture retailer, The Furniture Market, put relationships to the test by challenging three couples to the 30 minutes “DIY stress test” – which highlighted what couples endure when building flat pack furniture together. Our reaction? – been there, said that.

With this is mind, here are 5 ideal ways to stay sane and avoid flatpack furniture arguments with your partner.

EAT SOMETHING FIRST

Have you ever snapped angrily at someone when you were hungry? Avoid becoming hangry (yes it’s a real thing) by eating something before you begin assembling the furniture – working on an empty stomach could lead to disaster.

MAKE SPACE

This sounds like a no brainer but make sure you give yourself lots of room to move. Clear as much space as possible. It’s so much easier to lay all the pieces out in a big space then stacking them all up . Also move any clutter out of the way, there’s nothing worse than losing a small screw under some furniture or in a pile of stuff.

SORT ALL THE PIECES OUT AND READ THE INSTRUCTIONS

Before you do anything read the instructions. Familiarise yourself with the order of assemblage and what the arrows and numbers mean. Also, divide up all the screws, bolts and pieces of furniture before you start into relevant piles – lots of pieces can look the same so organising everything before hand will help you to avoid making mistakes like joining the wrong parts together or using the wrong screw.

DON’T WORK TO A TIGHT DEADLINE

Research into flatpack furniture and relationships found that many couples  underestimated the time that it took to build the furniture, this added to the frustration which led to conflicts. Don’t make this mistake,  give yourself plenty of time to assemble the furniture and take a breather if you need it – there’s always tomorrow.

BUY PRE-ASSEMBLED FURNITURE

The last thing people want to be doing during their spare time is building furniture which might cause conflict or result in unnecessary arguments with their partner. The answer? Don’t buy flatpack furniture at all.  You can get reasonably price, high quality, pre-assembled furniture from places like The Furniture Market  to help you steer clear of flatpack arguments. 

 

 

 

 

10 IDEAL SUMMER HOLIDAY WARDROBE ESSENTIALS

Rachel Stevenson
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10 IDEAL SUMMER HOLIDAY WARDROBE ESSENTIALS

Are you heading to Ibiza or going on a city summer break? We’ve put together a list of 10 summer wardrobe holiday essentials for your convenience

Packing for your holiday can be an absolute nightmare, especially with those pesky luggage allowances. First you have to decide what to take, then there’s the dilemma of having to fit all those clothes into one small suitcase. And then after all that, inevitably you end up wearing the same things while on holiday, despite having to sit on your suitcase in order to shut it. So you don’t have to go through all the stress of holiday packing, this year, we’ve done the hard work for you and put together a list of chic staples which means you have more space for gifts and any cute souvenirs you want to bring home with you.

Casual top

A versatile casual top that you can dress up with some jewellery for the evening or use as a casual cover up in the daytime is a must.

Denim Shorts

Denim shorts are the quintessential summer staple. They are tried-and-true and never go out of style. We absolutely love our vintage Levis denim short.  The high waist makes them perfect for teaming with this summer’s crop-top trend. If you don’t have any get some now. Places like Brick Vintage sell a great range!

A cute dress

No summer wardrobe is fully complete without a cute dress.  We love floral maxi dresses that can be worn in the city and on the beach. They also look fab with a pair of wedges for an evening look.

Small handbag

This is something that we always forget and as a result, end up lugging a huge bag around with us – annoying. Make sure you pack a handbag that’s small and goes with all of your outfits.

Sunglasses

No one likes the sun in their eyes and no summer wardrobe is fully complete without the perfect pair of sunglasses.

Bikini

Take two bikinis or swimsuits for a week’s holiday (they are, after all, very small).

Wedge Sandals

Go from day to night effortlessly with a comfortable wedge. We love the espadrille style which are so versatile and easy to wear. The look great with summer dresses and teamed with some denim shorts.

A denim jacket

A denim jacket is the ideal summer holiday wardrobe investment. It’s perfect for the evenings and if the weather turns a bit sour. Also it goes with absolutely everything and has a timeless appeal which means when you look back at your holiday snaps in year’s to come, you won’t be cringing and thinking ‘what the hell was I wearing’.

5 IDEAL KITCHEN BASICS FOR SMALL RESTAURANT OWNERS

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL KITCHEN BASICS FOR SMALL RESTAURANT OWNERS

Are you a serious foodie thinking about taking the plunge and transforming your passion into a career? There are a few practical issues to think about first – one of these is outfitting your first commercial kitchen. Here are five must-have pieces to pick up so that you have everything you need.

Fridge-freezer

No matter what size your restaurant is, you’ll need to keep it up to health and safety standards. This means a reliable refrigerator is essential to keep food chilled until use. However there’s a lot of variation within this general framework. For a taco truck, a basic counter refrigerator could do the trick, while an organic vegetarian kitchen might need a cold room to handle large quantities of produce.

Regardless of your operation, sourcing high-quality commercial refrigeration units from reputable suppliers like Ancastert food equipment can ensure your perishables are stored safely and efficiently.

Prep surfaces

Get the perfect surface to chop like a champ. Look for a professional butcher block crafted from anti-bacterial materials, or go for stainless steel worktops. These tend to be the easiest to clean, and give you the added bonus of being super durable so you get more for your money. You’ll get bonus points for adding a sink next to the prep surface for no-fuss cleaning.

Dishwasher

When you’re just starting out, washing dishes by hand may be the most cost-effective choice. But as your restaurant starts to grow, you’ll soon find that a proper dishwasher is worth its weight in gold. Look for one that can handle tough stains without the need to pre-wash in order to save time. 

Extraction Unit

If your restaurant menu invovles frying anything, an extraction unit is a must-have. On top of the general fire hazard, you don’t want your customers smelling like food. Make sure that your kitchen design is compliant with any local regulations.

Beverage Dispensers

A good way to boost your bottom line is with a lengthy drinks menu, but if you have a small restaurant you may not have the space for a lush lounge. Still, you can kit out your kitchen with a standard bar, ice machines, and beverage dispensing system. This will require some initial investment, but could enhance the appeal of your outfit immensely.

While the specific needs may differ depending on the kind of restaurant you’re after, these basics will get you off to a running start with your new biz.

4 IDEAL SKIN FRIENDLY & DELICIOUS DRESSINGS BY LIZ EARLE

Rachel Stevenson
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4 IDEAL SKIN FRIENDLY & DELICIOUS DRESSINGS BY LIZ EARLE

 

Liz Earle, creator of the award-winning Liz Earle Beauty Co., mother of five and organic farmer shares her favourite skin friendly dressings

Dressings are the fastest way to liven up raw vegetables and salad combinations, making summer salads tastier whilst adding more skin-saving nutrients. The thicker dressings are based on yoghurt and can also be used as dips for raw veggie crudités. For the thickest dips, use a Greek-style yoghurt. Quick and easy to prepare in advance, simply store in a plastic sealable pot or jam jar to pack with your summer picnic.

Fine French Dressing

If stored tightly sealed in the fridge, this dressing will also keep for up to a week. Makes 300ml (1/2 pint)

175ml (6fl oz) unrefined sunflower or safflower oil
120ml (4fl oz) freshly squeezed lemon juice
freshly ground black pepper
1/2tsp mustard, Dijon or whole grain can be used
1/2tsp freshly grated root ginger
1-2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed

Put all the ingredients in a screw-top jar, replace the lid and shake vigorously to mix well. This twist on the traditional classic has added fresh ginger for a unique zingy freshness. Works especially well when combined with skin-cleansing salads based on cucumber, chicory and fennel.

Cucumber Dressing

A delicious, refreshing dressing that also works well on sliced avocados, one of the richest sources of the skin-saving antioxidant vitamin E.
Serves 2-4

150g (5oz) cucumber
150g (5oz) natural low-fat, plain live (bio) yoghurt
1tsbp cider vinegar
1 sprig of dill
½ tsp dried sill seeds

Blend all the ingredients together in a food processor (or hand-held whisk) until the dressing is smooth and creamy. The bio yoghurt is packed with healthy acidophilus, the beneficial intestinal bacteria that can also help to keep skin clear.

Yoghurt and Chive Dressing

Serves 2-4

150ml (1/2 pint) natural low-fat, plain live (bio) yoghurt
1tbsp lemon juice
1tbsp Dijon mustard
2tbsp chopped chives
1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed
freshly ground black pepper

In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients together, adding black pepper to season, and stir vigorously. Alternatively, place ingredients in a large, screw-top jar, replace the lid and shake well. Yoghurt and chives are a tasty, skin-friendly combo containing calcium and vitamin C.

Orange and Tamari Dressing

Tamari sauce is made from soya beans and is similar to soy sauce. This tangy recipe works very well with raw baby spinach or dark green salad leaves. It is also a useful dressing for those who dislike vinegar.
Serves 2-4

150ml (1/2 pint) freshly squeezed orange juice
1tsp grated orange peel
2tbsps tamari sauce
1tsp finely chopped fresh root ginger
3tsbsps cold-pressed olive oil
1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed

In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients together and stir well before using. Alternatively, put the ingredients into a large, screw-top jar, replace the lid and shake well. Use organically grown oranges where possible, alternatively, scrub the skins in mildly water to remove fungicide residues and rinsing well before grating. A cleansing and refreshing dressing, rich in the skin-saving antioxidant vitamins A (in the form of beta-carotene from the oranges), vitamin C (also from the orange juice) and Vitamin E (from the olive oil). Orange peel also contains skin-friendly bioflavonoid nutrients and fresh ginger is a traditional intestinal cleanser.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR SUMMER PICNIC FOOD

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL TIPS FOR SUMMER PICNIC FOOD

Picnics are a great way to enjoy lazy summer afternoons in the sunshine . Of course, the great British weather can be very unpredictable, but keeping picnic food really simple means planning ahead is easy; you can still throw a delicious meal together with minimum fuss.

Emma Bridgewater, the handmade kitchen and dinnerware company, has shared her five tips for the perfect picnic, so get out that summer picnic ware and make the most of the sunshine while it lasts!

CHOOSE FOODS THAT TRAVEL WELL

Hopefully you’ll be taking advantage of a really beautiful day, in which case your picnic will be just one part of the day’s fun. With this in mind, choosing food which travels well means dishes remain intact and that your sandwiches aren’t disappointingly soggy by lunchtime! The most delicious sandwiches are often the simplest – ham with really good mustard is a favourite, as is smoked salmon and a thin layer of cream cheese. Use lettuce or baby leaf spinach to surround mayonnaise-based sandwich fillings to keep the bread dry.

KEEP FOOD SIMPLE

Think about how practical certain dishes are when you prepare for a picnic. Dishes that work brilliantly around a dining table may not be so sensible served balanced on a picnic rug. Finger food eliminates the need for cutlery and will usually mean less mess at the end of the meal!

CREATE A FINGER-FOOD SALAD

Chop up chunks of cucumber, cherry tomatoes, capsicum, carrot, courgette and celery sticks to make a finger-food salad. Serve in bowls with houmous for dipping for a delicious raw vegetable treat. This way you can still serve healthy food without the need for knives and forks.

SERVE FRESH AND FRUITY DRINKS

Homemade lemonade, elderflower cordial or fruit juices can be kept cool with an ice pack in your picnic hamper. Serving drinks in sturdy tumblers with a wide base mean they won’t get spilled when you spread out on a picnic rug on uneven ground. Wine glasses and champagne flutes may look elegant at a picnic, but can leave guests struggling to hold a delicate glass, cutlery and plate of food.

KEEP THE DESSERT SIMPLE

Bring a Victoria sponge cake and a bowl of fresh strawberries, blueberries or grapes for a refreshing end to your picnic. Avoid sticky foods and cover cakes and sugary deserts to keep insects at bay. Cheese and biscuits are popular with those who are not so keen on puddings. Keeping desserts simple is also likely to reduce the amount of cleaning up required at the end of the picnic!

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