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TOP 5 DOG-FRIENDLY HOTELS

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Luxury shouldn’t just be reserved for two-legged guests. We’ve sniffed out some of our favourite dog-friendly luxury hotels that go the extra mile to give Fido a break he’ll never forget.

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Gleneagles, Perthshire

If you and your pooch fancy five star luxury – look no further than this magnificent dog-friendly hotel in the heart of Scotland. Small to medium sized dogs can stay with you in your room, however once Fido gets a sniff of the luxury kennel facility, you may not have a choice! Furnished with king-size dog beds – your canine will be provided with food and water, have their kennel cleaned every day, and be taken into one of the exercise paddocks each morning. Extremely secure – you will be given a personal code to unlock your dog’s kennel so you can take him for walks when you like and enjoy the fabulous countryside surrounding the hotel together. 

Four Seasons Hotel, Hampshire

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The quintessential English countryside escape – Four Seasons Hotel offers every little luxury you – and your furry friend – could want. Upon arrival, four-legged guests will receive a cosy dog bed, feeding bowls, a delicious packet of dog food and fresh spring water. There are also a range of dog-friendly activates available as well as dog-sitting services – the staff are always on hand to help out. As is the canine Lord of the Manor and proud winner of the PetsPyjamas’ Top Resident Dog Award 2015, Oliver Beckington. The upstanding black Labrador greets all guests in the lobby and is more than happy to share a countryside walk and show his favourite spots on the Estate.

Cliveden House, Berkshire

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Five star dog-friendly hotel – Cliveden House exudes glamour and with its aristocratic history, will certainly impress the most discerning of canines. Priding themselves on ensuring all four-legged guests experience the finest of stays – on The Cliveden Doggy Break your dog will receive a beautiful bed, bowls, dining mat, treats and doggy dinner menu. Fido will also receive a personalised Cliveden lead, poop bags, towels, torch (perfect for late night walkies) and a dog walking map of the estate – there are over 250 acres of National Trust woodland to explore after all! Dog-sitting and walking services available too. 

Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Oxfordshire

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Owned by celebrated chef Raymond Blanc, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons is a beautiful dog-friendly hotel and two star Michelin restaurant in the picturesque village of Great Milton. All guest rooms and suites have been individually designed with three exclusively appointed as dog-friendly. Your dog will receive a comfy bed, set of bowls, poop bags and a chew toy to enjoy. Plus when you book your stay through PetsPyjamas – Fido will go for free!

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Surrounded by four acres of fabulous lawns and gardens – the five star Summer Lodge offers nothing but country house charm at its finest. Proving they are truly passionate about pets – this dog-friendly hotel will provide four-legged guests with a cosy dog bed (available in various sizes), food and water bowls, dining mat, ‘Dog in Room’ door hanger, gift packet of homemade biscuits, doggy menu and a list of local walks. There is even a dog wash station with towels – perfect for cleaning Fido after a muddy walk.

And remember when you book your dog-friendly holiday through PetsPyjamas you’ll receive a free personalised Pet Travel Kit plus PetPoints to spend on pet accessories or future bookings.

 

5 IDEAL WAYS TO ACHIEVE LAGOM IN 2017

If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the Hygge hype, get ready for the next big Scandi trend… Lagom! This new trend revolves around the concept of moderation, pronounced ‘lar-gohm’, the Scandinavian term that means ‘just the right amount’.

Rather than trying to fit some Hygge into your day, Lagom is a more general approach to achieving a thriftier and balanced lifestyle.

As it’s still January, the Lagom trend fits perfectly with people who are still trying to maintain their resolutions. Keeping spending habits in check, being less stressed out and pursuing healthier and more satisfying hobbies all fit into the Lagom lifestyle. We’ve asked our experts for their top 5 tips to achieve Lagom in 2017:

Stress Less

Following a lifestyle that is centered around balance and moderation is one of the best ways to keep your stress levels in check. If you start to feel a little bit overwhelmed remember that it’s okay to pair back your commitments.

Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading nutritionist and author of ‘Natural Alternatives to Sugar’ (Amazon, £7.17) says: “If you feel the symptoms of stress coming on, learn to get your priorities right. There is nothing in your life right now more important than your health. Learn to say no if you feel that you have taken on too much.”

Reduce Your Environmental Impact

An important part of Lagom is leading a lifestyle that you are doing your bit for the environment and living in moderation.

Make sure you’re always turning off your lights and that you’re using reusable shopping bags. If you want to also save on your heating bills while you’re helping the environment, you can invest in a thicker duvet or double-glazing.

Eat With The Seasons

Making meals with seasonal produce is not only good for your health but also for the environment and your purse strings!

Shona Wilkinson, nutritionist at SupefoodUK.com, explains: “Eating foods when in season means that you’ll be eating the way nature intended it. Summer fruits and vegetables tend to contain higher amounts of water, which dilutes their nutrient content. Compare this to winter fruits and veggies and you’ll find they’re richer in nutrients such as vitamin C and contain more valuable fibre.”

Moderate Your Portions

If you’re looking to bring Lagom into your kitchen, one of the easiest ways to achieve moderation is through correct portion sizes.

Nutritionist and weight loss expert, Lily Soutter (lilysoutternutrition.com) recommends cooking just the right amount or putting away the leftovers straight away: “Having just the right amount of food for each meal instantly eliminates any possibility of over eating. ‘Seconds’ can be hard to resist when serving pots of food are left on dining table. Minimise temptation by placing the serving pot back on the stove, or clearing the kitchen space immediately after cooking.”

Give Your Skin What It Needs

Nourish your skin with products that it needs by getting back to natural skincare products. Make sure you always read the labels before buying products and look for organic ingredients that will clean not clog your skin! Look for ingredients like Aloe Vera, Jojoba Oil and Plantolin for balms and gels that can naturally soothe your skin, such as What Skin Needs Soothing Skin Gel (£14.99, whatskinneeds.co.uk).

Dr Roger Henderson, GP with a special interest in dermatology, explains:

“With so many skin products on the market, it pays to know exactly what you are putting on your skin. A natural skincare solution has many advantages over products containing potential toxins such as parabens, PEG compounds, Coal Tar Dyes, DEA and formaldehyde to name but a few. What Skin Needs products are based on the natural plant ingredient Plantolin that provides an anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effect, benefitting conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.”

 

7 TIPS TO HELP YOU SAVE HUNDREDS ON YOUR MOBILE PHONE

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Most of us are paying over the odds for our mobile phones, but it doesn’t have to be that way and with very little time and effort, it’s possible to make significant savings while still having the best phone and tariff for you.  Here, John Whittle, CEO & Co-Founder at UNSHACKLED.com offers his top tips on how to save money on your mobile phone in 2017.

Buy phone and sim separately

Get the best bang for your buck by shopping around. Buying a phone and sim separately is often more cost-effective. This is because when buying a phone over 24 months, you’re borrowing money on an expensive APR and while it reduces the initial outlay, it’s more expensive in the long-run.

Check your usage

Instead of forking out for data allowance you don’t use, work out how much data you use and exactly what you will use your phone and buy the appropriate package. You can do this by downloading your network’s app to see what your monthly usage is.

Use your apps

High out-of-bundle charges for picture messages can be avoided by using a messenger app, for example.

Don’t be complacent

Be aware of when your contract ends! Research shows people are overpaying after their contracts have ended to the tune of half a billion pounds a year.

Don’t tie yourself in

Shorter contracts are better because those locked into 24-month contracts won’t benefit from any price falls or deals until it’s up for renewal.

Avoid pay as you go

Pay as you go allows the highest level of control, but it is an expensive way to pay for mobile and is only recommend for those needing to closely manage their finances this closely.

Be prepared

When you’ve signed a contract, there’s very little you can do until it’s up for renewal.  However, you can get prepared.  Download your mobile network’s app so you can keep a close eye on your actual usage versus what you’re paying for.

UNSHACKLED.com – founded by ex Phones4U execs – provides a cheaper alternative for people who buy the phone and SIM separately, allowing them to choose a network and data allowance that suits them now and offers the flexibility to upgrade or change the deal whenever they want. 

IDEAL PLACES TO WATCH THE 6 NATIONS IN LONDON

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Rugby season is back with a bang as we ring in the start of this year’s 6 Nations. Haven’t gotten your hands on a pair of 6 Nations tickets? Why worry when you can get together with fellow fans at one of Young’s Pubs or Geronimo Inns to watch the big game. Our handy round-up, from where to see the 6 Nations Trophy to dinner with Lewis ‘Mad Dog’ Moody, will make sure you don’t miss a single minute of the action.

This year, Young’s will bring the thousands of rugby fans descending on the capital closer to the action than ever before. Kick-off the tournament on Thursday 2nd February, when The Windmill in Clapham hosts the Tournament Trophy. This is a rare opportunity for fans of the world’s greatest rugby championship to get up close and personal to the trophy with a beer in hand.

Scrum down to The Bull’s Head, Chislehurst, on the 9th March for a very special evening with England legend, Lewis Moody. Guests will enjoy a six-course dinner with dishes themed around each nation taking part in the tournament.* After dinner, there will be a Q&A opportunity with the man himself and a raffle to win prizes, including two pairs of tickets to England’s final game against Scotland at Twickenham, with all proceeds going to the children’s charity of rugby, Wooden Spoon.

For all the best HD 6 Nations live action this season, check out this handy guide to the best bars and pubs in London to watch the rugby. Plus, enjoy the first round of Guinness for free when booking a table at The Boat House, The Alma, The Bull and The Devonshire.

The Orange Tree, Richmond

45 Kew Rd, Richmond TW9 2NQ, www.orangetreerichmond.co.uk

This Richmond favourite draws a sophisticated crowd of rugby fans. The matches will be screened on four big screens and there’s a special match day three course menu for £30, an outside BBQ and one of the best Scotch eggs in the capital for a half time refuel. If you’re heading down to the game from the pub, The Orange Tree will ferry you to the stadium in its own shuttle service on match days.

To make a booking email [email protected] or call on T: 020 8940 0944

The Ship, Wandsworth

41 Jews Row, Wandsworth, London SW18 1TB, www.theship.co.uk

One of the oldest pubs on the Thames, The Ship attracts regular visits from surrounding professional rugby teams such as Saracens, Wasps and Harlequins. The pub’s three large indoor screens and four outside screens mean there’s room for everyone to soak up the match-day atmosphere.

To make a booking email [email protected] or call on T: 020 8870 9667

The Boat House, Putney

32 Brewhouse Ln, London SW15 2JX, www.boathouseputney.co.uk

A popular pre-game stop-off for many fans following the river walking route from the city to the stadium. This pub makes the most of its party atmosphere during the tournament with a special sharing menu ideal for a group of mates to tackle, washed down with a fantastic selection of speciality ales including Twickenham Grandstand.

To make a booking email [email protected] or call on T: 020 8789 0476

The Alma, Wandsworth

499 Old York Rd, Wandsworth, London SW18 1TF, www.almawandsworth.com

A short walk from the stadium, this large Victorian-era Young’s pub welcomes supporters of all teams. A staunch rugby pub, The Alma promises a big game atmosphere complete with two huge screens with great sound. Upstairs, fans will find a fully decked-out room during the tournament with its own bar and specialty set menus.

To make a booking email [email protected] or call on T: 020 870 2537

The Bull, Streatham

498 Streatham High Rd, London SW16 3QB, www.thebullstreatham.co.uk

Groups of rugby fans will find individual huts at The Bull that can host groups between six and ten people. Each has its own screen making sure you’re always be close to the action, and the al fresco Burger Shack will be open throughout the tournament. Be sure to book early to not miss out.

To make a booking email [email protected] or call on T: 020 8764 4003

The Devonshire, Balham

39 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9AN, www.devonshirebalham.co.uk

With the social side of watching sport firmly in mind, the recently refurbished Devonshire offers a relaxed home-away-from-home feeling; with comfy sofas, a delicious food menu and an extensive drinks selection ensuring this is the perfect spot to enjoy the highs and lows of the championship. A new burger menu, themed to each of the participating nations, a spacious main bar and big private room means this pub is ideal for large groups. After each game the party atmosphere continues into the night with live bands and DJs.

To make a booking email [email protected] or call on T: 020 8673 1363

Competitions

For you chance to see the action live from the grounds, plenty of competitions will be taking place throughout the RBS 6 Nations via Youngs.co.uk/loverugbyloveyoungs and Geronimo-inns.co.uk/loverugby as well as on social media at @YoungsPubs and @GeronimoPubs

TOP 5 IDEAL VALENTINE’S DRIVES IN THE USA

 

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A U.S road trip with a loved one is the perfect romantic adventure this Valentine’s Day. Driving along some of the world’s most spectacular coastlines, lazy days on sun-kissed beaches, nights snuggled up in cosy cabins in the heart of awe-inspiring forests and enjoying a taste of old-world Americana, will make for a truly unique, romantic break.

To help find some inspiration, Hertz has collated its top five most romantic routes in the U.S.

1. Where Love Lives – Loveland, Colorado

Explore the Southern Rocky Mountains of Colorado and head to the town of Loveland which plays host to the nation’s biggest Valentine’s festival. Dubbed the Sweetheart City, Valentine’s Day is more than just a day in Loveland – it’s a way of life. Heart-shaped love notes dot the streets, art and sculpture take on romantic forms and local craft brews are transformed into love potions, culminating in the huge Fire and Ice Festival; a giant celebration of love, life and the arts.

A short drive east is the tiny town of Romance, Arkansas, which could be the perfect place to make some romantic memories – just be sure to avoid a trip to Bad Luck Creek which happens to flow by the side of the town.

Getting There: Fly with Delta from London to Denver via Detroit from £562 per person return www.delta.com. Hertz car rental from £145 for one week for an economy group car. Prices include unlimited free miles and tax. Visit www.hertz.co.uk for more information and to book.

Hertz Top Pit-Stop: www.mccreeryhouse.com from £50 per person, per night. A 19th century redbrick residential building which serves as a bed and breakfast and intimate venue space for local events such as craft fares.

2. Sun-Kissed Pacific Coast, California

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The iconic Big Sur on the Pacific Coast of California is the stuff romantic road trips are made of. Kick off in star-spangled Los Angeles, before making your way up the rugged rocky coastline towards San Francisco on Highway 101.

Getting There: Fly with United Airlines from London Heathrow to Los Angeles from £550 return per person www.united.com. Hertz car hire from £120 for one week for economy group car. Prices include unlimited free miles and tax. Visit www.hertz.co.uk for more information and to book.

Hertz Top Pit-Stop: www.spanishgardeninn.com Santa Barbara, from £145 per person, per night. Originally the site of the Santa Barbara School of Arts this authentic Spanish influenced, luxury hotel still has all its original features including a pretty courtyard, graceful arches and heaps of charm.

3. Snuggle up under the Stars – Black Hills, South Dakota

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The Black Hills, in the mountainous Midwest, boasts large open grasslands and beautiful pine forests, with countless hiking trails, campsites and cabins in which to spend a cosy evening or two cuddling up under the stars. The area is also home to some of the country’s most popular attractions including Mount Rushmore, with its iconic carved presidential figures of the past and the city of Hot Springs, with its array of luscious spas.

Getting There: Fly with Virgin Atlantic from London to Rapid City via Minneapolis from £620 per person return www.virginatlantic.com. Hertz car rental from £425 for one week for an economy group car. Prices include unlimited free miles and tax. Visit www.hertz.co.uk for more information and to book.

Hertz Top Pit-Stop: www.townhallinn.com from £35 per person per night. The Town Hall Inn was constructed in 1912 and served as the local Town Hall until 1938. Today, visitors can stay in the comfortable and ornate rooms which once formed the gallery, library and the mayor’s office.

4. New England Nights – Boston to Cape Cod, Massachusetts

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Combine a city break in culturally diverse Boston with an 80-mile coastal drive to Cape Cod. Experience the seaside splendour of Provincetown on Cape Cod’s northern tip, along the way you’ll find out just what gives Cape Cod its standout scenic reputation, with the likes of Hawksnest State Park, which offers great walking trails and miles of dune beaches.

Getting There:  Fly direct with Virgin Atlantic from London to Boston tic from £900 per person www.virginatlantic.com. Hertz car rental from £170 for one week in an economy group car. Prices include unlimited free miles and tax. Visit www.hertz.co.uk for more information and to book.

Hertz Top Pit Stop: www.359main.com from £95 per person per night. Chatham Inn is a gorgeous 5 star, luxury, boutique hotel located minutes from Lighthouse Beach on Cape Cod.

5. Island Paradise – Hawaii

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Go island-hopping or explore just one. A drive around the main island of Hawaii itself is the stuff dreams are made of with its spectacular scenery. While a trip to the dormant Mauna Kea volcano is sure to heat things up in the love stakes.

Getting There: Fly with Virgin Atlantic from London Heathrow to Honolulu via New York from £738 return per person www.virginatlantic.com. Hertz car hire from £215 for one week for economy or £356 for a premium group car. Visit www.hertz.co.uk for more information and to book.

Hertz Top Pit Stop:  www.themodernhonolulu.com  from £150 per person per night. Voted the best boutique hotel in Hawaii by online magazine Thrillist, this hotel offers a stylish and contemporary luxury experience and stunning ocean views. With a library that rotates its bookshelves at 6pm to reveal a sophisticated bar.

All Prices are based on travel 11 February and returning 18 February 2017.

For more information on the Hertz Top 5 Best Valentine’s Drives in the USA visit https://www.hertz.co.uk/p/hertz-together/the-best-valentines-day-drives-in-the-usa

DIDN’T ANYONE TELL YOU ABOUT USING EMU OIL FOR ACNE

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Yes, by Emu we mean the second-largest living bird by height. The oil produced from it also has heightened skin benefits, especially helping with acne. There is not much to lose if you use it, but what if you may see it work in a couple weeks of use?

What makes it work?

All the studies which we referred while knowing about emu oil uses for acne and even scars couldn’t stop us from sharing them with you through this article. EMU oil has been known as miraculous for its all natural ingredients to help acne and blemishes. For a simple reason that the oil gets readily absorbed through the skin, it is able to offer to the most of its capabilities to stop bacteria & reduce inflammation. The fatty acid profile of the skin also matches with the lipid fatty acid composition of emu oil. This is the key reason why emu oil is used to promote healthy skin. With the high levels of omegas, Emu oil may help to gently nourish and moisturize the skin.

Why is it called carrier oil?

You might have seen blameless organic acne treatments that contain pure emu oil. If you ever happen to read their label it is often mixed with natural herbs and essential oils which are absolutely necessary for optimal skin health. High quality essential oils are derived naturally and there are about 90 pure extracts obtained from various plants which won’t clog pores. Because of their purity, many essential oils are used to help diminish acne.

Coming to carrier oils now, which by its name suggests that carries something. Carrier oils are used to not exactly carry but dilute essential and other oils before being directly used for topical application. Emu oil is an excellent carrier of essential oils which means it can carry other ingredients deep into your skin when used in a formulation. So, skin products for acne usually blend the finest quality essential oils into with emu oil to gain the full benefits.

But since emu oil is non-greasy and won’t clog pores, it is sometimes confused as an essential oil. Some acne game changer products also use a combination of emu and tea tree oils which can give softer, moisturized skin with a pleasant smell-all while reducing acne. You are lucky if you get a skin cream having both of them.

Turn your hand to Emu Oil for Acne Treatment

With all the benefits painted in front of you, emu oil seems a great addition to the skin care regime as far as breakouts are concerned. But now crops up the big question of how you can use emu oil naturally for acne treatment. For facial use, the following Emu oil acne regimen is recommended:

  1. Begin with washing your face with mild cleanser and water and pat it dry with a clean towel. We hope you didn’t rub the towel across your face. Don’t do that, this can increase inflammation and redness.
  2. Not precise (as we told it won’t be harmful) but pour just a few drops of emu oil onto a clean cotton swab and then dab it gently on the area of the face affected by the pimples, blackheads as a little can take you a long way.
  3. Allow the oil to merge in your skin on its own. You need not force it into your skin by rubbing it. If you need to reapply, use a new clean cotton swab for the second application, third, and so on. Does your skin feel oily a few minutes down the line? You might have probably used too much, so cut down a bit next time.
  4. Recreate this act twice a day preferably once in the morning and then in the evening, may be before going to bed. This will allow the oil to work on your skin throughout the night.

 

This emu oil acne treatment regimen is simple, quick and safe to help stop bacterial action in the skin and reduce swelling and redness. At the same time, this may help promote faster healing while reducing the risk of scarring. Beyond the obvious acne benefits of emu oil, nourished skin which is glowing and soft to touch is just like the festival bonus.

If you are still apprehensive about Emu Oil, you can have a good conversation with your doctor before beginning with your Emu Oil for Acne Treatment. Whether you are using natural products like Emuaid Cream that uses emu oil as its core ingredient or just plain emu oil, you need to be pretty sure that it suits your skin. After all, it is not to blame the oil but the differently designed body structure of humans which leads to varying results.

10 REASONS YOU NEED A RUG IN YOUR HOME

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If you don’t already have a rug in your home, here are the 10 reasons why you should invest in one ASAP.

MAKE YOUR PLACE YOUR OWN

We like to think of rugs as art for your floor. You can use them to make a statement and to inject your own personality into the room.

TRANSFORM YOUR HOME

A rug can effortlessly transform any room, instantly lifting your home out of its design funk.  Have fun with bright, bold colours or go for a light, neutral shades such as cream and taupe to keep the ambience of the room gentle and calming – the choice is yours.

COVER UP THE PROBLEM

Are you renting? Can’t change the flooring? Does your new place come with some tacky blue carpet that reminds you of university halls? Are there some questionable stains?  If this is the case, a rug can be your saviour. A large enough rug can cover up ghastly coloured carpets. They can also cover a multitude of sins – think red wine spills.

BRIGHTEN UP A ROOM

Throw a light rug over dark carpet or flooring and voila – a lighter room.

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CHANGE YOUR COLOUR THEME

We think that it’s nice to inject a bit of seasonal colour and pattern into your home. A rug can easily change the colour theme of your room.  Try one for winter and one for summer. Online shops like Modern Rugs often have amazing sales, so you needn’t spend a fortune on changing your colour theme.

YOU CAN TAKE IT WITH YOU

If you’re thinking of moving house later down the line, you can’t take expensive flooring or a carpet with you. But you can take your lovely rug.

INDULGE YOUR SENSE OF TOUCH

There’s nothing like kicking your shoes off and letting your feet sink into a textured rug. Or lying on a rug in front of a roaring fire.

TIE UP YOUR ACCESSORIES

A rug can be a fantastic way to unify the decor in any room.

PROTECT YOUR FLOORS

Want to avoid spills, stains and scuffs on your wooden floor or carpet – a rug will do the trick.

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WARM UP YOUR HOUSE

Hardwood floors can look lovely, but unfortunately they don’t retain any heat – a big problem in winter. A rug can be essential when it’s cold, providing much needed warmth to your home.

4 FASHION RULES FOR BAGAHOLICS

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Women and handbags go together like peaches and cream; it’s an undisputable fact of life. You only have to stroll through the designer bag department of any major fashion store to catch doe-eyed women stroking their precious wish-list favourites with longing.

Not content with merely lusting over arm candy, we sure know how to build up a large collection of handbags too. Totes, clutches, backpacks, satchels… You name the style, we’ve got one, not to mention the hefty price tag to go with it.

But halt, bagoholic! Before you punch in that 4-digit password to handbag heaven, read our fashion rules first to check if your bag crush is worth the hype.

Buy modern classics, ignore the fads

Highlighter neon shoulder bags, transparent clutch bags, futuristic printed backpacks…Before you rush to the checkout all guns blazing; consult your common sense first. Ask yourself whether or not this handbag is going to be relevant to your collection in 12 months time. If the answer is no, bid it a remorseful farewell and move on. This doesn’t mean you have to discard every on-trend handbag out there, but think twice before investing in the latest fad. Two-tone, block coloured bags are the one-stop solution to all your modern classic needs.

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If it doesn’t match your existing style, it isn’t worth buying

Picture the scene: you go out on a shopping spree and return with bags full of shiny new garments. The only problem is none of your new-found items go together or match. Sound familiar? It’s time to consider fashion rule numero 2. There’s no point in shelling out for a luxury handbag only to find that you’ll need to shell out plenty more to match said handbag with an outfit. Choosing a neutrally shaded handbag  is a wise move. Not only will you be much more likely to use go-to handbags frequently but they’ll also save you precious time in the mornings due to their uncomplicated styling qualities.

Only good quality handbags should make the cut

The merits of a high quality handbag are undeniable. As tempting as it might be to buy 3 cheap handbags instead of one investment piece, the likelihood is that you’ll be throwing 2 of them away before the year is out. High street fashion is made to be disposable, but a high-quality handbag made by an esteemed designer will last through the ages.

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Consider the designer, collection and re-sale value

As much as we love to convince ourselves that the handbag we spent two months rent on will be in our hearts forever, the truth is there will probably come a day when you’ll want to sell it. And that’s why you should always consider the following three amigos: designer, collection and re-sale value.

Ask yourself, does the handbag you want come from a classic designer? Is the collection the handbag comes from covetable? And finally, what is the resale value like? These three questions are paramount.

Take Modalu England for example: marrying traditional methods and meticulous attention to detail, the Modalu England brand has cornered the high-end market with their eminent line of designer handbags. This is one example of how buyers can purchase an investment handbag safe in the knowledge that there will be a high ROI should they ever wish to sell.

 

 

 

IDEAL LONDON LANDMARKS YOU JUST NEED TO SEE

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London is such a diverse and cultural city, there is no wonder that millions of tourists flock to its streets every year. So what do you have planned during your time in the big city? Well, some of London’s most famous sites and attractions are extremely iconic, and a spot of sightseeing is always a great way to spend a day in the capital! Not sure what to see while you are there? Here are some of the best spots to head to.

Saint Paul’s Cathedral

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Saint Paul’s Cathedral towers above most of London’s skyline and is visible from most places in the centre of London. The large cathedral dates back to 1673 when it was famously designed by the architect Sir Christopher Wren. Even though regular services still take place in the cathedral, it is also open to visitors. Visitors are allowed to look around the church every day except Sundays. Visitors can wander around on their own or join a guided tour.

Buckingham Palace

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Another of London’s historic sites, Buckingham Palace is the London residence of Queen Elizabeth II. Even though the whole palace isn’t open to the public, many tourists head there every day to explore the state rooms or just take photos of the exterior. Another highlight is the daily changing of the guards which takes place daily at 11.30 am from April to the end of July.

The River Thames

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One of the largest iconic attractions of London has to be the famous River Thames. This huge river doesn’t just flow through the capital city, though – it cuts through most of southern England. People enjoy the river in various ways, with thousands walking along its banks in the city. There are also regular events on the river, and tourists can also enjoy a Thames Dinner Cruise.

Big Ben

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Standing at the north end of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben is the large clock tower that is probably one of the most recognisable sights in the city’s skyline. However, even though the tower itself is now known as Big Ben, that wasn’t always the case. In fact, the name was originally only meant for the bell that strikes the hour. The tower dates back to 1859 when it was added onto the Houses of Parliament. Most tourists settle for a picture of this iconic clock, but you can also join a tour to get up close to the famous bell!

The Tower Of London

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Officially known as Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, this large castle is on the north bank of the Thames. The tower is completely open to the public, and you could easily while away a few hours exploring its various exhibitions and rooms. The tower is also home to the crown jewels so you will get the chance to see some very important crowns during your visit!

As you can see, there is plenty that will keep you busy during your time in London. Have fun!

HOW TO TRAVEL LIKE A PRO

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We all want to look like confident travellers, but half the time we have no idea where to find our passport, how to pack our cases or no idea what to do in a flight delay. However, to help you become a more assured traveller, here’s how to travel like a professional…

Do Your Homework

Don’t turn up at your destination and ask the hotel staff about the best places to eat, drink and dine. Instead, do your homework before you travel to ensure you visit the best places across your chosen destination, which will allow you to make the most of your experience.

While it is always helpful to ask the hotel staff about the best places to visit, they might have little knowledge themselves or might be less clued up than you are, especially when it comes to tourism spots they regularly take for granted. Make an informed choice with the help of mrhudsonexplores.com.

Check-in Online

Skip the annoying airport queues and check into your flight online the day before your journey. You can often print off your boarding pass or have it sent to your smartphone. Airports prefer you to check-in online to eliminate significant queues and some airlines have even started charging for printing off boarding passes at the airport.

check in online

Correctly Pack a Carry-On Case

You can eliminate all the trouble with check luggage by simply learning how to pack your carry-on case. Instead of spending hours waiting for your case to be unloaded off the plane, or having to sort lost luggage, you can just walk off the plane, through the security gates and onto your hotel transfer. The best way to successfully pack your carry-on case is to pick staple items that work in different ways throughout your trip, which will eliminate your need for multiple clothing items you don’t really need or will wear. Remember, most destinations will have the essentials you will need, such as toiletries, beach towels and cosmetics, so don’t fill your luggage with unnecessary products.

packing correctly

Flight Delays

So many travellers don’t know their rights when it comes to flight delays, which is why you should look up your entitlement should you endure a delayed flight. For example, if you depart from an EU airport and experience a flight delay of more than three hours, you could be entitled to compensation, and the airline is also required to provide food and drink airport vouchers, as well as overnight accommodation, if required.

Comfortable Footwear

Most tourists make the big mistake of packing the wrong footwear on their travels, only to be left with sore feet after a busy day of walking. While those high heels might make you feel as fabulous as Carrie Bradshaw in New York, you will feel less glamorous an hour later when walking block after block across the busy city. Opt for sensible footwear that will ensure you’re not stuck in the hotel with your feet in a bucket of ice water.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO BOOST YOUR LIFESTYLE WITHOUT BECOMING A GYM BUNNY

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WAYS TO BOOST YOUR LIFE

At this time of year, there is always that flurry of hopeful resolutions that mean the gyms are jam-packed with eager people that will sign an expensive 12-month contract with all the best intentions only to forget their way to the gym by the time it hits February. That’s why it is better to be realistic about lifestyle changes. You’re not going to go from being a couch potato to a marathon runner in a couple of months. Possible? Yes but realistic? Not at all.

Don’t kid yourself and end up retreating back into your comfortable lifestyle that you’ve occupied for the most part of your life. Changes should be gradual rather than sudden if they are going to have a better chance of lasting. There are lots of small changes that you can make that don’t take up your entire life.

Here are a few little ways you can boost your lifestyle:

Improve your diet

You might not need a complete overhaul in this area, so try introducing some small adjustments to your diet. Fruit and vegetables can boost your energy and provide a more balanced diet that will improve your overall health and mental wellbeing. You don’t have to join Weight Watchers or put yourself on a strict diet, just slowly make small changes that will have good, long-term benefits. Take an apple with your lunch, add carrots to your dinner: small changes with big benefits.

HEALTHY FOOD

Get more sleep

Sleep is such a vital ingredient of your overall health. Scientists link the lack of sleep to serious health problems such as diabetes, obesity and heart disease. It is also associated to depression so if you can get more sleep, this will help you on many fronts. There are lots of reasons that impact you ability to have a good night’s sleep, from having the right bed through to noise from passing traffic. Investing in a good bed is one of the best investments you can make in life, so why not have a look at custom solid oak beds to help you to get the quality of sleep that your body needs.

Hydrate more

You might be surprised how little you actually drink throughout a day compared to what is recommended. Experts suggest trying to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day, now this can seem hard to maintain but if you are not drinking frequently you will be missing out on the vital health benefits of water, such as healthier skin.

WALK

Walk more

Walking is an easy way to add a bit more exercise into your daily routines without feeling like you’ve made a big fitness change. Walking just an extra twenty minutes a day gives you a considerable health boost. Its not just high intensity exercise that leads to weight loss, walking can have an impact too. If you can walk outdoors regularly then you are also increasing your vitamin D intake which with have further health benefits.
You don’t have to live at the gym to boost your lifestyle, try these simple changes and find out how you can benefit from them.

IDEAL GUIDE ON HOW TO GET YOUR FOCUS BACK

You likely suffer from the same dilemma as many people in today’s digital, 24/7 world. Despite the fact that you always seem to be doing something, so little of it seems to be productive, or you might not be achieving what you want to achieve because you find yourself torn between endless distractions and novelty. The feeling of underachievement tends to grow and grow as you lose your capacity to truly focus and complete the tasks that you need to. Whether it is essential work to be done around the house, or finishing a creative or business project that could change your life–you just can’t seem to find the time to do something you really want to do.

The first step is to forgive yourself! All of us feel the pressure to explore the new world of unlimited content and 24/7 updates that is now available to us. If you’re a curious person then you want to see what’s out there, particularly as it relates to things you want to achieve. But if you find yourself combing through endless research and realise that it is merely a distraction that keeps you from finishing the task, then you need to get ruthless. Here are some tips to reclaim your productivity.

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Get some digital discipline:

1. Turn off notifications on your phone–think about it, most of the time it’s nothing that can’t wait until later.

2. Limit your computer use outside of work hours. When you want to work on a project after work try good old pen and paper. This will also make it easier to wind down when it’s bedtime.

3. Figure out what’s distracting you in your environment and block it out. If you live on a busy street the sound of sirens and people talking might pull you out of your focus zone. Use earplugs to prevent this. Studies have shown that once you are distracted, it takes 25 min to settle fully into the task you are working on. According to a survey by RIFT, 40% of people complain about noise pollution to their residence.

Rediscover the attention span heavy things you love:

1. Did you know that concentrating on a good book is the same as concentrating on a very difficult task? Reading builds attention span so don’t feel guilty about making more time to read.

2. Meditation is a great way to wean your data addicted brain from bright screens and instant messaging. Spend at least 15 min each day just sitting and focusing on one calming thought.

3. Exercise is a great way to focus and physically pull yourself away from your digital life. Try a form of cardio like running, swimming or cycling or try yoga in combination with tip number 2, meditation.

Your attention span will take a while to build back up but once you begin to feel more calm and find yourself thinking about your e-mail inbox less and less, you will find that the time you do spend working on work or personal projects is much better spent. Remember that rest is essential to performing at your best and a brain that gets too little rest cannot function optimally. The best thing you can do? Get a full nights sleep.

SMART AND STYLISH: HOW TO TURN YOUR SMARTPHONE INTO A FASHION ACCESSORY

iphone

A phone has been, for a very long time, a clunky piece of metal that serves many purposes, but just doesn’t look very stylish. Sure, the new iPhone 7 looks fantastic and even Samsung’s Edge phones have a sleek border and industrial colours that would work well with any style that you come up with.

If you want to perfect your style, you must not forget about your phone. If you have your phone out with you on a regular basis, you don’t want it to stick out like a sore thumb when you take it out of your designer bag and put it to your ear. You want it to match the rest of your clothing, the colours should complement each other and it helps to have a stylish case.

To give you a helping hand, here are a couple of handy ways to promote your phone from being just a device to a fashion accessory.

Get a new case

mobile phone 3

There are many websites that sell art-inspired iphone cases You can get beautiful designs that will make your phone look like a work of art instead of a business and communications tool. With so much choice available, it can be difficult trying to pick out a case that matches your mood or fashion for the day, so why not buy several? Cases can easily be swapped around to match your style, and they are relatively inexpensive considering they turn one of your most used electronic devices into a fashion statement capable of holding its own in the fashion world.

There are flip-cases that you can use to store money and cards, there are simple cases that slip onto the back of your phone and there are also sturdy cases that protect your phone from being damaged if you drop it. The functional cases often come with very boring designs since they’re not meant to be fashion items, but there are a few designers that make beautiful and sturdy phone cases for all makes and models of smartphone.

A matching pair of gloves

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The cold season might be going away soon but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be wearing a pair of gloves to keep the heat in and the cold out. Sadly, as many people might have realised, it’s almost impossible to use a phone when you have a warm pair of gloves on. To remedy that, why not buy a comfortable and great looking pair of gloves that work with your phone? Touchscreen gloves used to look very bland and serious, but nowadays there are many fashion designers who have taken the concept to the next level and you can now get a wide range of touchscreen gloves that look the part and work brilliantly.

Don’t forget your headphones

headphones

When we’re out in the open, the most typical pastime is to get a pair of headphones and listen to podcasts or music. Whether you’re on public transport commuting to and from work or just taking a walk with your dog, your earphones or headphones will always be showing. There are plenty of stylish headphones that will fit all head shapes and sizes, and they aren’t bad quality either.

IDEAL HAIR DETOX TIPS FROM NICKY CLARKE

January is a time to detox not just your body, but your hair too. With this in mind we speak to the professionals at the London Nicky Clarke salon who share  their top tips for a hair detox

Your hair suffers the same way your skin and body does to a poor diet and being stressed, it also has the perils of day to day life to deal with – UV rays, wind and pollution are all elements that will cause irritation to the hair shaft and cuticle. Coupled with the excessive use of heated electrical equipment like straighteners, hairdryers and curling tongs, hair can take a serious pounding which will ultimately have an adverse effect on the condition.

Feed your Hair

Essentially you need to feed your hair the proteins it requires to be healthy. Argan oil, Avocado and Macadamia are all natural ingredients that will feed the hair the goodness it needs. Diet is important and like everything water is key, add to that green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli and beans. Vitamins are ideal for you hair’s strength, Zinc Vitamin B and C should all be taken but don’t always guarantee results.

Get Into A Routine

Getting into a routine short term to treat the immediate effects and long term something that you can maintain day to day are vital for replenishing you hair.

Use A Cleansing Shampoo

Begin your detox by using a deep cleansing shampoo that will strip the hair of all of it’s impurities. Do this a minimum two times and work the shampoo into the scalp using the pads of your fingers in circular motions, work the shampoo through the mid-lengths and ends then rinse with cool water. Repeat this process until the shampoo no longer lathers; this is an indication that the hair is clean.

Condition Your Hair

Condition the hair to strengthen and soothe, look for ingredients such as oat extracts, honey and argan oil. Add a small bit of peppermint treatment into your conditioner, this will make your head tingle by stimulating the scalp to increase bloody supply to the hair follicle; it will feel both refreshing and invigorating.

Work the conditioner through the hair and comb through distributing evenly. With the hair damp and you out of the shower, take the moisture out of the hair.

Initially, use an intense treatment mask and comb that through liberally. You need to leave this on overnight, pin into a ponytail and put a shower cap on the hair. Rinse in the morning. For the remainder of that week aim to do 3 overnight mask treatments.

At this stage you should be working steamed vegetables, fruit, water and vitamins into your daily diet.

The second week move down to Nicky Clarke Weightless Treatment with Argan Oil, which would replace the intense mask (you will continue to do this once every two weeks)

Now you are going to do the same process twice a week using the Argan oil. Combing through evenly this will allow three key ingredients to penetrate into the hair cuticle, Argan, Kukui and Macadamia…all ideal for adding essential proteins to the hair.

This won’t usually need a rinse in the morning as the hair will of absorbed it. Continue this for two weeks.

In this time you need to get a haircut and get all of the dry ends removed, ensure your haircut isn’t ‘cut into’ and softened, as this will just break the hair shaft.

Your everyday process should include a protein spray or leave in conditioner added to the hair before you use any styling products, this will form the shield over the hair it requires.

Every other day an argan-based product should be used. The beauty of the Nicky Clarke Weightless Treatment with argan is its ability to be used as a conditioner, leave in conditioner, blow drying agent and finishing serum, so you’re getting all the goodness, protection and shine throughout your hair experience.

Avoid Shampoo’s that contain the following ingredients Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Tetrasodium and Propbylene Glycol these are all toxic chemicals commonly found in shampoo.

So go guys and girls and get your hair detox on!

AN THEY CALL IT PUPPY LOVE: TIPS TO ENHANCE YOUR DATING EXPERIENCE

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DATING

Dating can be a bit of minefield at the beginning. If you aren’t navigating the whole who to ask out on a first date, then you are wondering where date two and three are going to take you. It’s a crazy rollercoaster of confusing emotions, and sometimes we can often fail to impress or try too hard. Resulting in a fizzled out courtship, and the whole situation starts again. But no longer does this need to be the case. Now is the time to enhance your dating experience and get beyond date three. With that in mind, here are the tips to help you get there.

Don’t overthink things, just go with the flow

Dating can be the most crucial time in any blossoming relationship. It is the time where snap judgements can be made on how you feel without even giving someone a chance to shine. We can all do it. Dating requires you to be open-minded. We can’t all decide who we are going to love in the first five-minute conversation. Try and go with the flow and not overthink how you dress and how you sound. The best possible advice would be to be yourself. After all, it is the only person you can be.

Add to the dating experience with a gift

Sometimes after the first few dates you want to try and how the other person what they mean to you. However, you want to appear romantic from the man’s side of things, but then thoughtful if it is the female wanting to gift the man. There is a fine line to stepping into this territory, but it could be the seal of approval you need to take the relationship to the next level. You may want to buy a pearl necklace, come armed with a huge bouquet of flowers. Or perhaps thinking on a more thoughtful side of things and presenting tickets to their favourite band or theatre production. This sort of gift shows you may have listened to the conversations you previously had.

Be open to different things

Sometimes you may need to be open minded when it comes to dates and conversations. People can get nervous and speak about all kinds of subjects, where as other people may take the lead and book in a date that you may never have considered before. The thing is, when you relax and go with it, you may find that you enjoy the conversation or the activity you are doing. Don’t just stick to the normal dates of a meal and a few drinks, mix things up a little and try a few different activities. It is a sure fire way to really get to know someone.

Be armed with conversation starters

Sometimes a conversation can be a little stale, especially when nerves kick in. So prepare yourself for those dry mouth moments and arm yourself with conversation starters. Think about questions asking about career, hobbies and what they get up to in their spare time. This will surely lead on to other questions and conversations.

Keep your cool

Finally, it may be hard but try and keep your cool when it comes to those first few weeks of dating. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the moment but remember you are just getting to know one another.