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4 WAYS TO WEAR HEELS ALL NIGHT LONG AND BE COMFORTABLE

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heels

That throbbing, aching feeling that can only come from a pair of high heels after a night out. We’ve all been there. The question is, is it possible to wear heels and be comfortable? We spoke to podiatry expert Michael Ratcliffe from Carnation Footcare who shares his top tips.

Try before you buy

In the shop they feel comfortable but on the dance floor they pinch and rub in all the wrong places – sound familiar? Before you buy your new sandals, walk around in similar heeled shoes for a coule of hours to allow your feet to swell slightly, then try on your new sandals. There should be no restriction to your foot with the straps or the heel counter. Your toes must not over hang the end of the sole of the sandal as this can pinch and cause bruising.

Go Bigger

Maker sure you are wearing the correct size – even if it means going for a bigger size than normal.

Slow Down

The way you walk in your heels can affect your comfort and posture. Slow right down and take shorter steps as rushing will cause you to lean forward and lose that upright posture. Keep your head high and try not to look down, again to maintain that important, confident upright posture and protect your back. If you’re worried about blisters, try Carnation Anti-Blister Stick (£4.15 from firstaidfast.co.uk) to prevent friction before it happens.

Strap Up

As comfortable as they may be, a night of dancing can cause the sandal straps and the heel counter portion to cause friction leading to painful blisters forming. Use Carnation Tip Toes Gel Strap Strips or Carnation Tip Toes Gel Heel Shields (firstaidfast.co.uk) to prevent friction.

FIVE IDEAL TIPS FROM MR MOTIVATOR

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The one and only Mr Motivator shares his top motivational tips with IDEAL Magazine

This is very exciting. The man who got us moving in the 90’s with his enthusiastic workouts and eye-catching lycra getups has been announced as the 2016 MoRunning ambassador. He will be encouraging people up and down the UK to sign up for a 5k or 10k MoRun and raise funds for the Movember Foundation. Here are five of his most motivating tips:

One

With every step you take, over 200 muscles come into play, so choose your goal well and remember the first two letters of goal, and GO for it!

Two

When running, start slowly and build up at your own pace, don’t be in too much of a hurry, only Robinson Crusoe ever got things done by Friday. Trying to finish the race, enjoy it and earn extra funds by your effort are your aims so don’t push yourself too hard.

Three

I maintain that it is great to be doing something that is of benefit to you personally but will also help others. Taking part in an event for charity will provide you with so many rewards and benefits.

Four

Remember – the difference between ordinary and extraordinary is only that little extra, so surprise yourself with how much you can do. Strive for excellence and ask yourself if what you are doing today will get you closer to where you want to be tomorrow. If the answer is yes, then go for it with gusto.

Five

The price of success is perseverance. Remember Rome wasn’t built in a day and being successful at something can take a while but if you persevere and strive to be the best you can be – you will get there!

The MoRuns will take place between November 1st and November 29th in 17 locations including Dublin, Leeds, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Manchester and London. For more information, please visit www.mo-running.com/

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR GLAZED LEMON DRIZZLE FRUIT SODA WITH RHUBARB & CREAM

Paul Hollywood shares his recipe for glazed lemon drizzle fruit soda with Rhubarb & cream

We all know that Paul Hollywood’s recipes are great, so we’ve asked him to share some with us.

A few drops of natural red food colouring helps to intensify the pinkness of the rhubarb but if you don’t want to use it try replacing it with 2 tbsp Grenadine or 4 tbsp raspberry jelly.

INGREDIENTS

4 slices Rankin Selection fruit soda

2 tbsp softened butter

4 tbsp icing sugar plus extra for final dusting

LEMON DRIZZLE SYRUP

Juice of 1 lemon

60g icing sugar

RHUBARB

225g young stalks of rhubarb, trimmed

80g caster sugar

zest of 1 lemon

few drops of natural red food colouring

whipped cream or crème fraiche and fresh raspberries, to serve

finely grated lemon zest, to decorate (optional)

METHOD

To make the lemon drizzle syrup, warm the lemon juice with the icing sugar in a small pan or in the microwave until the sugar dissolves. Leave to cool.

To cook the rhubarb, slice the rhubarb into 3cm pieces. Put into a medium-sized pan with the sugar, lemon zest and food colouring and place over a medium heat. Almost immediately the rhubarb begins to release some liquid which will prevent it from sticking but you may need to stir it a bit. Cook for about 8 minutes. Remove from the heat when the rhubarb is tender but still holding its shape.

Take a baking tray that the soda farl slices will all fit into snuggly.  Pour in the lemon syrup, tilting it to spread it evenly. Butter each soda farl slice right to the edges and then arrange them on top of the syrup – buttered side up. Finally give them a generous dusting of icing sugar.

Preheat the grill to high. Carefully toast the soda farl slices until the icing sugar dissolves and begins to glaze. Transfer one slice to each serving plate and spoon over the cooked rhubarb with the mounds of whipped cream or crème fraiche. Decorate with lemon zest, if liked and add a light dusting of icing sugar. Serve with the raspberries.

HOTEL REVIEW: HOTEL DE SEZE

A four star hotel with tastefully flamboyant interiors, good breakfasts and a restful atmosphere that is well placed for visiting most of central Paris

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As one of the world’s most popular destinations, Paris obviously has no shortage of hotels. However,  discovering the right one can be tricky. Luckily for you we’ve done our research and if you’re looking for a stylish, comfortable hotel slap bang in the centre of everything, then say bonjour to Hotel de Seze.

Location

Excuse us for stating the obvious, but if you want to stay somewhere in central Paris  perfectly situated  for exploring the city, then the Madeline district will not disappoint.  It is here where you will find Hotel de Seze – right in the thick of things, a stone’s throw from Paris’s many delights.

The Madeline district is one of the most stylish in Paris and provides a thousand temptations to shop until you drop – think luxury boutiques, designer handbags and heels lining the avenues of this Parisian couture neighbourhood.  It is also a great spot for eating good food and soaking up the famous French culture.

As you probably know, the best way to explore Paris is on foot as there is so much you can miss if you travel by taxi or metro.  Hotel de Seze is perfectly placed to experience the city by this humble means of transport. It’s a short stroll away from the Opéra and Palais Royal, Champs-Elysées and La Défense. The  Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame, the Seine, Arc de Triomphe and other must see sights are also within walking distance. While you won’t want to miss out on these attractions, make sure you take the time to walk the streets at a leisurely pace so you can truly discover the details and delights of Paris down to every charming shop and cosy café.

The only thing that might disappoint you about the location of Hotel de Seze is the actual street it’s situated on. Although there is nothing wrong with it, it’s just not that pretty and the Sex Shop on the corner might make you feel a little nervous when approaching the hotel. However, don’t be disheartened; although it’s not Paris’s most picturesque of streets, you won’t be disappointed by the chic and sophisticated ambience of the hotel.

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Style and Atmosphere

While some Parisian hotels go a little over the top in trying to present eccentric French style, or try to focus purely on channelling the history of the city, the décor at Hotel de Seze is refreshingly different. The masterminds behind the design of the hotel are interior architects Anne Peyroux and Emmanuèle Thisy.  They have created a unique hotel, where modern and contemporary design features are blended with natural elements, resulting in a relaxed and stylish vibe.

Inspired by memories of curiosity shops, the surfaces and walls of the hotel are adorned with pictures, vases and lamps.  Chic furnishings and furniture are in every corner of the hotel, and quality materials are used throughout. For those of you who have a keen interest in aesthetics and interiors, you can easily spend an afternoon playing a game of spot the designer as the hotel features works from the likes of Jean Charles, Dodo Arslan and Enzo Catellan.

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The atmosphere at the hotel is relaxed through and through.  In the lobby there are plenty of newspapers and books to peruse, and high quality coffee is on tap all day. The hospitality here is impressive and the staff are extremely friendly – always a novelty in a city centre hotel.

Rooms

It’s the contemporary, colourful rooms that are the real focus at Hotel de Seze. All are small yet sizeable and inventively designed with great flair, boldly clashing colours and lush fabrics – it sounds busy, but it absolutely works. Each room is chic and sophisticated and has its own identity, showcasing wonderfully individual and exuberant design. However, although the décor of each room is different, natural flora and fauna appointments grace them all, giving a sense of unity to the design of the hotel.

p.s The huge comfy beds are amazing!

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Food

Facilities are a bit thin on the ground: there is no restaurant, but who cares when you’re in Paris. A buffet breakfast is served between 7 AM and 11 AM. Breakfast here is a fun affair with a great spread that includes fresh bread and pastries, fruit salad, organic yoghurt, cereals and more. If you feel like being lazy, a continental breakfast can be served in your room on request. Coffee and tea is served all day in the lobby in case you need a caffeine fix.

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The hotel has an honesty bar, so if you fancy a drink just go for it, there is no need to hesitate and ask the hotel staff. They are simply relying on your moral code to pour your own booze, take whatever  snacks you like and then charge it to your room accordingly. The honesty bar is ideally located in the main reception and is perfect for that late night drink before bed.

Hammam Time

If you’re determined to extract full value from the hotel, then take advantage of the hotel’s hammam (steam room) – a place entirely dedicated to relaxation and well-being which is a tranquil escape after spending the day exploring Paris. Just make sure you book your slot to use it with the hotel staff in advance. The hotel also has a small but decently equipped gym if you want to work off all that French food you’ll be eating.

hotel de seze gym

Why go

To stay in a chic hotel with the great advantage of being so close to so many of the city’s main attractions.

Address: 16 Rue de Sèze, 75009 Paris, France

Phone:+33 1 47 42 69 12

www.hoteldeseze.com

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

10 IDEAL FOODIE DESTINATIONS YOU NEED TO VISIT

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Tom Barber, Esquire travel guru and co- founder of luxury travel company Original Travel, offers up his top 10 fab foodie destinations

Of course we travel for the art, the architecture, the weather, the landscapes, the fact that it’s somewhere not home, but let’s be honest for a second here – if you had to choose between two destinations but one had killer food (in a good way) and the other not so much, I know where most of us would head. So now we’ve all admitted that the call of the stomach might be as important as a desperate desire to coo over a cracking Corinthian column (lovely as they undoubtedly are), where are the must-visits on any gastronomic globetrot?

Here’s my shamelessly subjective list of the heavy hitters that will, in all likelihood, also leave you a little heavier on the bathroom scales. Oh, and you might notice a few notable omissions –Paris (and Lyon, too), New York and London, for example – but when you own a company called Original Travel, then you have to live up to the name.

JAPAN

No geographical delineation here – the whole country gets the nod for the sheer quality of the ingredients and the extraordinary art/science attention to detail of the execution and presentation. Tokyo has Michelin starred eateries galore, mostly with just a handful of covers and that are more difficult to find than the entrance to Diagon Alley, but even the okonomiyaki pancakes served at the fastfood stalls in Hiroshima train station are delicious. The clincher? Stay in a traditional ryokan inn for an insight into Japanese home life, and enjoy a multicourse kaiseki dinner.  I guarantee the majority of dishes will be completely unidentifiable, but mind-blowingly good.

SAN SEBASTIAN, SPAIN

From one big country to one small Spanish – or more correctly Basque – city. San Sebastian has a fast growing reputation as a bucket list destination for gastronauts, and with good cause. The city has more Michelin stars per capita than Tokyo and Manhattan (best of the bunch is dad/daughter run Arzak), in no small part thanks to the Basque habit of making pretty much everything highly competitive. The city’s secretive gastronomic societies have elevated cooking alongside other Basque obsessions such as pelota (the fastest ball sport on the planet) and visitors to the various bars serving delicious pintxos (Basque tapas) are the grateful recipients. Try? Basically anything, washed down with the local (and slightly sparkling) local moonshine wine, txakoli.

HANOI, VIETNAM

Street eats don’t get much better than in Vietnam, and Hanoi is the gastro-capital of a country that took Indochinese cooking concepts and lightly sautéed them with a dash of French colonial culinary cunning to produce arguably one of the world’s great cuisines.

The street food in Hanoi is almost universally amazing, and this is the place to get to know pho, a Vietnamese broth made with an onion (bien sur), meat stock and fish sauce base and piled high with rice noodles, beansprouts, basil, limes, chillies and beef. Even better, you can put your mouth where your money is and enjoy top quality cooking courses in the city to learn some of the key techniques.

COPENHAGEN DENMARK

I could have gone with Stockholm here, but the renaissance of Scandi-gastronomy started in Denmark’s decidedly lovely capital Copenhagen at the legendary Noma. While head-chef-meets-visionary René Redzepi is still working miracles, a clutch of his finest former sous-chefs have opened up their own gastro-temples.

Best of the bunch is Christian Puglisi’s Relæ, in the achingly hip Nørrebro district; just the place if nothing will hit the spot like an elderberry infused wild duck with burnt onions. But it’s not all about Michelin stars here – after a night on the cobbles enjoying the city’s excellent bar scene, try a delicious hotdog pølse with remoulade (a sweet pickle/mayo sauce) from a street stand. Beats a kebab any night.

OAXACA, MEXICO

Thanks to the delectable Tommi Miers and her hip Wahaca chain, Mexican food is so hot right now in the UK, chillies or otherwise. Tommi made the wise decision to go with the phonetic spelling for her restaurants, but the real deal Oaxaca is Mexico’s culinary and cultural capital and the place for chilli hounds.

So good is the street food in Mexico – much of which originates from Oaxaca – that it was recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status and for the adventurous eater this is epicurean heaven. Grasshoppers cooked in garlic, lime and chilli (surprise!), anyone? It gets better.

Oaxaca is also home to that hipster rocket fuel of choice, mescal, a cousin of tequila and guaranteed to make the evening go with a bang. Just make sure to sip and not neck your mescal, and drink it with a chaser of delicious local craft ale, or that bang might soon become a whimper.

CAPE TOWN & WINELANDS, SOUTH AFRICA

Africa might only have one entry in this list but frankly when that entry is as good as Cape Town and the CapeWinelands that’s ample. Not only is the place spectacularly beautiful, but the foodie scene is outstanding, with everything on offer from artisanal burgers served out of chef Nigel Wood’s driveway at The Dog’s Bollocks to the best restaurant in SA, the Test Kitchen, helmed by innovator in chief Luke Dale-Roberts.

Out of town in the impossibly pretty Winelands, the town of Franschhoek is the epicurean epicentre with yet more excellent restaurants and vineyards and wineries within easy reach (you can even enjoy a riding tour of some of the finest wineries. Are there rules about drinking and riding?).

My own favourite winery is Vergelegen, a classic CapeDutch manor house reached along an avenue of 300-year old camphor trees and surrounded by vineyards. Reserve a table outside at the Rose Terrace Bistro, crack a few bottles of the flagship Vergelegen ‘V’ red and settle in.

PERU

Peru is another country getting it right at the moment, thanks to the craze for ceviche. Peru’s finest export since Paddington bear consists of marinated raw fish served with citrus and chilli dressing and is way better than it sounds, preferably washed down with one or three pisco sour cocktails.

The raw fish thing might sound reminiscent of Japan, and that’s no coincidence as the largest immigrant group in the country is – bizarrely – the Japanese. Needless to say, when you tire (possible, if unlikely) of ceviche then the sushi is outstanding. 1,500 miles of coastline will help on the fresh fish front as well.

For the best of both worlds, Chef Mitsuharu Tsumura at Maido in Lima fuses Peruvian and Japanese cooking together in one, nigh on perfect, combo. Try the sushi with Amazonian dry salted beef for proof.

ITALY

OK, OK, I know – recommending Italy as a foodie destination is hardly original, but I’m going to put it in anyway. Why? Because, quite frankly, the grub can’t be beat. The French might have something to say about that, and of course there’s a time and place for a succulent piece of turbot in a rich lobster sauce, but in my humble opinion every time and every place is right for the Italian take on eating and drinking.

A breakfast of espresso and crostrata tart kicks starts any day and anyone travelling with children will always find something for the little ones to like in the country that perfected pasta, pizza and ice cream.

There’s plenty of more leftfield stuff on offer too, from the Roman speciality pajata (best you look it up) to the stodgier Tyrolean food in the Dolomite mountains and Sardinia’s answer to caviar, bottarga, a delicious cured fish roe. And then there are the wines. Mio dio, where to start..?

ANGUILLA

When the competition is as fierce as it in the resurgent Caribbean, every island needs a USP. Jamaica has the music, St Lucia the scenery, St Barts the élan, Barbados the bling, and Anguilla? Little old Anguilla has hands down the best food in the West Indies. That’s quite a call, and that’s not to say there’s not brilliant restaurants throughout the isles, but around every corner on Anguilla is another amazing beach shack restaurant or hotel with superstar chef.

The pick of the bunch is Scilly Cay for the ultimate in lobster lunches. Stand on the quayside of Island Harbour and wave across to the tiny island and they will zip over in a boat. Once ashore this is basically a glorified shack with walls inlaid with row upon row of conch shells, and the menu would have had Henry T Ford nodding approvingly. Lobster, barbecued, with curry sauce.

OK, there’s some choice – you get to point out the lobster in the tank you particularly want, but once the deed is done, sit back with Eudoxie Rum Punch in hand and wait for the most beautifully cooked, juiciest, tastiest lobster you’ll ever eat. Then go for a snorkel around the island. Nice touch.

Or for something a little different, at the Belmond Cap Juluca Anguilla you’ll find Spice, the resort’s restaurant based on a Moroccan lounge, with fragrant, delicious North African dishes and a dining room that overlooks Maundays Bay.

BEIRUT, LEBANON

Beirut is the place to pick up the finest Middle Eastern cuisine, a(nother) perfect blend of Levantine produce with that added twist of French culinary ingenuity that elevates Lebanese cuisine to the level of world class.

In a city where the party tends to go on all night, I recommend regular refueling on shish taouk kebabs with delicious garlic sauce and fattoush salad with fried pitta bread pieces, washed down with cold Almaza beers.

Chateau Musar, Lebanon’s premier wine producer, is also under-rated at your peril. In a neat encapsulation of the Lebanese determination to overcome adversity, Musar has produced a vintage every year in the last few turbulent decades bar 1976, when the frontline in the civil war ran through the vineyards. Here’s to many more consecutive vintages to come

Tom Barber is co-founder of multi-award winning Original Travel (020 3582 4990; www.originaltravel.co.uk), and the Travel Editor for Esquire Magazine.

CHILLED CUTHE IDEAL RECIPE FOR CUMBER AND AVOCADO SOUP FROM HEAD CHEF AT HUNTER 486

Gary Durrant shares his recipe for Chilled cucumber and avocado soup with brown shrimp and dill. This dish features on the new menu at Hunter 486, the stylish restaurant within five-star boutique hotel The Arch London.

The soup is a healthy and refreshing dish, perfect for an alfresco lunch or alternatively, as a light starter dish

Ingredients (To serve 4)

1 medium onion finely chopped

½ clove garlic finely chopped

2 cucumbers peeled, seeds removed and sliced

650 ml vegetable stock

1 medium avocado

½ cucumber peeled, seeds removed and cut into small cubes

40g peeled brown shrimps

4 sprigs dill

Method

Cook the chopped onions and garlic in a little vegetable oil until soft and translucent.

Add the cucumber and cook for approximately 10 minutes until the cucumber is soft.

Add the vegetable stock, bring to the boil and then simmer for 20 minutes.

Place in a liquidiser and blend until it is smooth.

Pass through a fine sieve into a bowl, and place this in a bowl of ice to chill the soup.

When the soup is cold, peel and chop the avocado, add to the soup and blend again until it is smooth and season with salt and black pepper.

It is very important that the soup is cold before you add the avocado otherwise it will go brown and you are looking for a bright green colour.

To serve pour into a chilled soup bowl and sprinkle over the peeled brown shrimps, the cubed cucumber and the chopped dill.

Named after the 1950s dialling code for Marylebone, Hunter 486 is the stylish restaurant within five-star boutique hotel The Arch London. Hunter 486 has been designed with an air of nostalgic London glamour fused with contemporary touches.

10 IDEAL MAKEUP TIPS FROM LONDON FASHION WEEK ARTISTS

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As London gets geared up for fashion show season, we’ve found the top 10 weird and wonderful backstage beauty secrets from the people in the know.

SUNKISSED YOUTH

One of the easiest ways to cheat a youthful look is to draw on freckles. Makeup artist, Lynsey Alexander says that Kate Moss always asks for a smattering of freckles, “It gives you that youthful freshness and glow, the trick is to use your brow pencil and dot randomly before smudging it with your finger, so it looks like skin rather than make-up”.

BEE STUNG LIPS

To create an enviably full pout, Creative Makeup Director at Estée Lauder, Tom Pecheux, says: “Outline them with a pale gloss, then colour in with a darker gloss. Over time, the deeper shade will fade into the paler one, making lips look full and sensual.”

60S LASHS

Celebrity makeup artist Hannah Murray is the master of Twiggy lashes that are making a comeback. She recommends: “Curl first, then immediately apply waterproof mascara as it holds lashes up much better than a regular formula. Follow with 2-3 coats of black mascara, wiggling the brush through.” She sometimes dries out the mascara: “I leave the lid off for a day or two to get the right texture – it makes all the difference.

HOMEMADE FACELIFT

A pain-free facelift? Yes please! Niki Metz, Director of Artistry for Jouer says: “As a little girl, I would watch my mother apply egg whites to her face (especially around her eyes) about an hour or two before going out to a special event. She would take one egg, separate it, whisk it until it was frothy, and apply the egg white all over her face and leave it on for 20 minutes. After, she would wash it off with lukewarm water and immediately apply her makeup. The egg white tightens the skin and wrinkles to give you a temporary facelift.”

THICKER BROWS

Eyebrows are in for the foreseeable future. If you haven’t been blessed with Delevingne eyebrows, Terry de Gunzburg, founder of ByTerry says: “Apply a nourishing balm to your eyebrows before going to bed. This will guarantee extra strength and growth—thicker eyebrows in two weeks.”

DARK CIRCLES

We’re always looking for the latest remedy to get rid of the dark circles under our eyes. Brazilian beauty, Victoria Brito, loves her home remedies: “For example, to get rid of dark circles, take a potato, cut it into slices like a pepperoni, and put one slice over each eye for about 15 to 20 minutes once a week. I swear, after doing it about five times, you’ll start to see a drastic reduction of dark circles. The potato literally starts to get dark and shrivel up while you use it—it’s crazy!”

MIX AND MATCH

Matte foundations can settle on the skin and often exaggerate pores and wrinkles. Joanna Czech, Uma Thurman’s facialist, says: “Skin looks younger and fresher when you can see it through your foundation, unlike water-based versions, they won’t highlight enlarged pores and fine lines.”

Czech also says: “Make your own by mixing your favourite serum or facial oil in with your regular foundation.”

Mixing serum into your foundation is a great way to ensure your skin stays hydrated all day. Skincare expert at What Skin Needs, Sonja Dymalovski, recommends using a serum that includes natural oils as they reduce the chance of breakouts.

Sonja says: “Hydration is the key to young looking skin, and adding a serum to your foundation is a great way to get that youthful dewy look. I would go for a serum with oils that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties like Jojoba oil and Plantolin. Try Hydrating Facial Serum by What Skin Needs (www.whatskinneeds.co.uk, £17.99)

HYDRATE YOUR HAIR

Who knew that you could find a great conditioner tucked away in your fridge! Blake Lively told Brydie: “My mom taught me this really great beauty tip. She used to put oil or mayonnaise on the bottom half of her hair before she would shower. That way, when she would shampoo, the soap wouldn’t strip the bottom of the hair and dry it out making it brittle.”

CHEEKY GLOW

British icon, Kate Moss, always looks fresh-faced despite being a party girl, she says: “Dick Page taught me this: After applying your lipstick, blot your lips with your fingers and then pat the remaining colour on your cheeks for an instant glow.”

HOMEMADE MASKS

Michelle Peck, skincare expert whose past clients include, Australia beauty, Miranda Kerr: “We use various different homemade masks to prep her skin, from a delicious Pineapple Enzyme Peel to a Papaya Mask. We also use an avocado and olive oil mask for hydration and a coconut cream mask that we whip up to use for dehydrated skin.”

THE IDEAL RECIPE TO CELEBRATE OYSTER SEASON: POACHED JERSEY OYSTERS WITH OYSTER VELOUTE

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To celebrate oyster season, Michelin Star chef Steve Smith of Bohemia shares his recipe for Poached Jersey Oysters with Oyster Velouté

Created by Head Chef Steve Smith, who has held a Michelin Star for over 15 years from the age of just 24, this recipe for poached oysters is just the tip and makes a luxurious treat. Steve is known for creating a truly outstanding dining experience with his ingredient and flavour driven tasting menus. Bohemia was recently listed as the best restaurant in Jersey in Square Meal’s Top 100 Best Restaurants 2016.

Opening Large Oysters

When working with large oysters, that are too big to fit snugly in the palm of the hand, start by laying them on a cloth on the work surface with another cloth on top. (The curved shell should be underneath)

Insert the oyster-knife point as close to the hinge as possible. Work it in to a depth of about 2cm.

Once the knife is in, pick up the oyster so the rounded shell sits in the flat of the hand. Twist the knife downwards and inwards to loosen the two shells and separate them at the hinge.

The meat is attached to the top shell by an adductor muscle. Move the blade along the top (flat) shell and loosen the oyster from it without cutting into the fleshy part.

At this point oyster and oyster juices will sit in the rounded shell as though in a cup. Discard the flat shell.

Washing oysters and clarifying the juices

As you open each muscle empty the juices into a bowl, expect about 200ml juice from 10-12 large oysters.

Pass the juice through the finest sieve and reserve.

Rinse the oysters in this juice to remove any grit or traces of shell.

Take them out of this liquid and reserve.

Sieve the juice again and store for the sauce, the poaching emulsion and the oyster mayonnaise – about 350ml in all.

Oyster Velouté Recipe

  • Ingredients (Serves 8)
  • 60g finely diced shallots
  • 100ml Noilly Prat
  • 100g Oyster Juices
  • 120g Fresh Oysters
  • 200ml Double Cream, 200ml Crème Fraîche
  • 40ml Chardonnay Vinegar
  • Lemon Juice and Salt to taste

Method

Put the shallots and Noilly Pratt into a medium-sized pan. Reduce by half over a gentle heat so that the shallots become transparent.

Add half of the oyster juice and half the oysters.

Bring back to the boil and reduce by a quarter.

Add double cream and crème fraîche then bring back to the boil, take off the heat and blend.

Return to the pan and add the remaining oyster juices and oysters. Bring to the boil and take off the heat.

Add Chardonnay vinegar and blend.

Pass the sauce through a fine sieve.

Add lemon and salt as necessary.

Oyster Emulsion   

  • 20g Seaweed butter
  • 60g Finely sliced shallots
  • 100ml Noilly Prat
  • 120g Raw Oyster
  • 100ml Oyster juice
  • 120g Raw Oyster
  • 40ml Champagne vinegar
  • 200ml Double cream
  • 200ml Creme Fraiche
  • A Pinch of salt
  • Lemon juice

Method

In a saucepan, combine the shallots and Noilly Prat. Reduce by half over a medium heat. Add half the oysters and oyster juice and reduce by 1/4. Add the cream and creme fraiche, cover in cling film and leave to steep for 20 minutes.

Add the remaining oyster, juice and the seaweed butter. Place in a blender and blend till smooth. Pass through a chinois and add the vinegar. Season with salt and a little lemon juice if required.

Oyster Poaching Liquid

  • 100 ml Champagne
  • 100ml Oyster juice
  • 25g Seaweed butter

Method

Warm all the ingredients to 62°C.

Oyster tapioca

  • 50g cooked tapioca
  • 50ml oyster veloute
  • 2 tbspn finely chopped cucumber
  • 1 tbspn finely chopped fennel cress/dill
  • 5-10ml  Yuzu juice
  • Salt

Method

Warm the oyster veloute and tapioca, mix thoroughly. Allow to cool. Add all the other ingredients and season.

Cucumber pickle

  • 1/4 cucumber finely diced
  • 2 normal shallots finely chopped
  • 1 tbspn chopped dill/fennel
  • 3 tbspn white balsamic vinegar

Method

Place the cucumber into a vac bag with the vinegar and vac on the highest setting. Open straight away and drain the vinegar. Lay on a blue cloth to drain for a few minutes.

Place in a small bowl and mix in the shallot and fennel fronds. Keep at room temperature.

Place a little pickle on each oyster when serving.

7 IDEAL SUN SPOTS FOR A LATE SUMMER GETAWAY

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Let’s face it, as beautiful as Britain is, summer isn’t our forte. With the exception of a few days of blistering heat (which always take us by surprise) we spend the majority of the summer months with an emergency brolly in our bags.

It may be the end of the UK summer holidays, but that doesn’t mean we’re ready to pack away our flip flops just yet.  In fact, with September bringing us some of the balmiest of days in recent years, there’s still time for one final fling to send your summer out with a bang. Treat yourself to one last trip to end the season with these top destinations from LateRooms.com, perfect for your summer finale.

THE HIPSTER GETAWAY: CANAL ST MARTIN, PARIS

It doesn’t get much hipper than Canal St Martin, which, set in Paris’s 10th arrondissement, is the place to see and be seen in the French capital.  And summer brings the area into its own as well-heeled hipsters and model-types dangle their feet along the waterside whilst philosophising (in true Parisian style) over a bottle of red wine or a couple of craft beers. 

In warm weather, impromptu gigs pop up close to the water’s edge and casually beautiful people traverse the canal’s quaint iron footbridges in search of the next high fashion boutique, record shop and independent coffeehouse – all available en masse.  For film buffs, the area famously appeared in Amélie and Hôtel du Ñord.

ISLAND GETAWAY: MALLORCA

An ever-popular gem of the Med, Mallorca combines some of the quintessential requirements for an island getaway: hidden coves, sapphire seas, stretches of sandy beach, Instagram-worthy sunsets and scented breezes are here in abundance.  If you can tear your eyes away from the crystal clear waters and pine-backed beaches, you’ll be rewarded with acre upon acre of vineyards, breathtaking mountains, super fresh seafood and charming historic towns to explore come sundown.

7 IDEAL SUN SPOTS FOR A LATE SUMMER GETAWAY

THE UK BEACH BREAK: NEWQUAY

If you’re looking to make the most of summer on home turf, the Great British seaside is tough to beat. Fistral Beach in Newquay offers close to a kilometre of golden sands, backed by high cliffs and rolling dunes. A favourite with surfers, lessons are available for first timers and the delights of the Cornish coastline- including Padstow and Mawgan Porth – are on your doorstep too. Take a long walk on the beach, build a sandcastle and grab some fish and chips.  This is the British summer at its finest.

THE FOODIE CITY BREAK: PORTO

There’s much more to Portugal’s food capital than its fortified wine (although it’s not a bad place to start).  Set in a winning location where the Atlantic Ocean and a host of the country’s finest vineyards are neighbours, Porto is a foodie’s dream. Smoked meats, tangy cheeses and fresh seafood are all on offer to tempt you, as well as plenty of innovative dining options and the city’s Mercado do Bolhao food market – stacked to the rafters with delicious treats – to explore.  The city itself is a picture postcard of zigzagging alleyways and winding lanes set against soaring belltowers, with charming alfresco dining options overlooking the Douro river.  Accent your trip with a visit to a local winery or a stop off at one of its many contemporary creative spaces.  It’ll give you chance to digest before the next meal. Read our guide IDEAL city guide to Porto here

 

THE ROMANTIC RETREAT: COTSWOLDS

Golden hued villages, chocolate box cottages, rolling hills and honeyed fields make the Cotswolds one of the UK’s largest areas of natural beauty.  This is Thomas Hardy country and if you’re looking for a romantic idyll to while away the lazy last days of summer, this is pretty tough to beat.  Settle down to a champagne cream tea, stock up at a farmer’s market before picnicking in the long grass, and wander thatched-cottage filled villages before making like Lord and Lady of the Manor and settling down to a luxury dinner for two in one of the area’s award-winning restaurants.

Read:  5 IDEAL reasons to visit the Cotswolds this summer.

THE ALTERNATIVE PARTY HOTSPOT: BARCELONA

The closing parties may be ringing in the end of the Ibiza season, but if you’re looking to continue the party, make Barcelona your next stop.  If ever there was a city for night owls then Barcelona – where not even dinner happens before midnight – is it.  Bringing together the holy grail of buzzing city, golden beaches, and averages of 26 degrees even in September, boy does Barcelona do party hub well.  Spend your day on the sands, lounging at one of the beachside cafes, then head out late to one of the city’s world class clubs and renowned DJs – from La Terrazza to La Macarena and the exclusive CDLC, set right on the beachfront.

Read: 10 IDEAL things to do in Barcelona

COUNTRY ESCAPE: WINDERMERE

The British countryside doesn’t get much more awe inspiring than the Lake District and as the home to England’s largest lake, Windermere is on point when it comes to nailing the country escape.  Miles of the country’s most sunning walking routes surround you – encompassing grassy valleys, mesmerising blue waters and heart-stoppingly beautiful peaks.  After all that fresh air, Windermere itself has some of the quaintest pubs and tearooms on offer to refuel in, or simply sit back and enjoy a pint over that view.

TOP 10 ATTRACTIONS IN DUBAI

 

Travelling to the sprawling metropolis of Dubai? Lucky you! In the past 20 years the city of Dubai has evolved into a cosmopolitan paradise which is practically bursting at the seams with recreational attractions. From fantastic architecture to themed entertainment centres, find out how to get the most out of your visit to the city of gold.

#1: Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is not for the faint hearted. At 2,722 ft high, Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and a focal point of Dubai. Marvel at the view from the top, hurtle down the world’s 3rd fastest elevator and eat fine food 22 floors up. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

#2 KidZania

If you had your time again, would you be a pirate, a banker or a journalist? At the innovative adventure park KidZania, children get the opportunity to live and work just as they would in adult life. For one fun filled day, kids can perform regular working jobs and earn money in the fictional currency of Kidzo’s. An excellent role play activity for children, they won’t want to leave.

#3 Ravi Restaurant

Take some time out from the gastronomic glitz and glamour of Dubai and head to Ravi for honest Pakistani curry served with a smile. You won’t find any embellishments here, all the focus is on the food which by the way, is outstanding. Order the chicken boti, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the rare privilege of paying under £20 for a meal for 4.

#4 Dubai Fountains

You may be wondering why fountains have made it to the top 10 attraction list. Well, what you need to realise about Dubai is that despite all the buildings, shopping malls and water features you’ve seen previously, Dubai are doing it taller, bigger and louder. And Dubai Fountains are no exception. This is one of those “you have to be there” moments. Trust us.

#5 Ski Dubai

If you want to have your cake and eat it too, Ski Dubai is just the ticket. Cool off from that sizzling desert heat by skiing down runs in sub-zero temperatures. The gigantic ski slope is situated in Mall of the Emirates and covers a generous 3000 square metres. Hurtle down the toboggan run, head for the steepest slope and enjoy a spectacular view from the chairlift.

#6 Desert Safari

Get acquainted with the Bedouin way of life by taking a trip back in time courtesy of the desert safari. Four wheel drive vehicles will transport you to an authentic campsite where you’ll have the opportunity to experience shisha, traditional cuisine, belly dancing and henna painting. Indulge your adventurous side by participating in a spot of dune bashing. This adrenaline fuelled activity will have you racing across the bumpy sand dunes at terrific speeds- its nail biting stuff!

#7 Wild Wadi

Introducing Wild Wadi, the best water park since records began. Winner of the 2013 Travellers Choice Award, Wild Wadi is an aqua fairyland for kids and adults alike. Boasting 30 water slides -including a master blaster rollercoaster style affair – and the largest wave pool in the Middle East, visitors will find no shortage of fun here.

#8 Dubai Creek

One for the history buffs, Dubai Creek gives visitors a taste of Dubai’s roots. Sailing along the creek on a traditional abra or on a unique dhow cruise, you will be confronted by the oldest and most scenic surroundings of Dubai. Hop aboard and watch the sunset, enjoy fine food on a cruise or simply sit back and soak up the jocund view.

#9 Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab is the world’s first 7 star hotel. For most of us, staying in such a place is unimaginable however that doesn’t mean we can’t visit the sky bar and steal a few glances at the magnificent view from the top. For a super extravagant overnight stay or afternoon tea in a lavish setting, head to Burj Al Arab.

#10 Dolphin Bay

Most people reserve a place on their bucket list for swimming with dolphins. At Dolphin Bay, you can achieve all that and more with scuba diving, educational programmes and of course dolphin encounters notable packages. Interact with these sublime creatures on a once-in-a-lifetime swim.

Author Note: My Dubai Stay are a group of beautifully furnished Dubai holiday rentals situated in 9 desirable locations across the city. Whether you’re searching for a three bedroom villa on the Dubai Marina or a one bedroom apartment in the Palm, visit their website to see what’s available.

5 IDEAL TIPS FOR ATTENDING A BEACH WEDDING

A beach wedding could be a truly beautiful, unique, and unforgettable occasion. After all, what could be more romantic than watching a couple exchange their vows with the ocean breeze blowing through their hair, the sun shining down, and the sound of waves crashing on the shore? But if you have never attended a beach wedding before, you may be wondering what you should expect. If that’s the case, keep reading to learn more.

FOLLOW THE DRESS CODE

Just because the vibe associated with being on the beach is a relaxed one, a beach wedding can still be a formal event. The groom will likely wear a formal suit or tuxedo, while the bride will wear a gorgeous bridal gown. The same formal attire will be expected of you and the rest of the guests, so do not assume that you can get away with wearing sandals, a pair of shorts, and a t-shirt just because you will be watching the ceremony on the sand.

The guys at formaltailor.com tell us that men should have a suit or tuxedo fitted properly if the wedding invitations specify the event will be formal, and women should wear a short or long dress that is appropriate for the season and expectations of the bride and groom.

IT MAY GET HOT AND UNCOMFORTABLE

If you are going to be attending a wedding on the beach, especially during the summer or in a tropical location, you should expect that it may be quite hot, and it could get uncomfortable.

This is especially true if the event is a formal one that requires that you wear formal attire. No matter what, do not complain about the weather or the heat.

Be kind and courteous, and avoid complaining to the bride and groom or any of the other guests. It is likely that the bride and groom have already thought about the heat, and you may even find a little fan that you can use at your seat during the ceremony to stay cool.

Read: 5 tips so you can keep cool in beach wedding even in summer

DON’T FORGET THE SUNSCREEN

Don’t ruin the day by getting burnt! Remember to bring your sunscreen and consider bringing a wide brimmed hat to shield your face from the sun’s rays. Your chosen sun hat can look great too and add a touch of style to your wedding outfit.

Read: 7 tips for staying safe in the sun this summer

WEAR THE RIGHT PAIR OF SHOES

Even if the beach wedding will be a formal one, you may not be able to wear the formal shoes that you would typically wear with your dress or suit. In fact, beach weddings can be particularly tricky when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes because you will be on the sand, and heels don’t work in the sand because they will cause you to sink. At the same time, however, you also do not want to wear a pair of really casual flip-flops that could ruin your outfit. Therefore, the best route to take would be to wear dressier flat sandals if you’re a woman. If you’re a man, a loafer style shoe could be the ideal option while on the sand.

With the right preparations, particularly when it comes to what you will wear, you can attend a beach wedding and take in all of the beauty and love that surrounds this special event.

5 IDEAL MONEY & TIME SAVING TIPS FOR SENDING PARCELS

PACKAGE

If you’re not au fait with the developments in the courier industry, you’re missing out on some excellent savings on your postage. Many will flock to the Post-Office on their lunch breaks to be met with large queues and high shipping costs. The good news is, there are far better options out there, especially for important or difficult parcels. With this in mind, here are 5 IDEAL money and time saving tips for sending parcels. 

PICK THE RIGHT WEIGHT CATEGORY

Since many postal services like Royal Mail will charge by weight, if you’re looking to cut costs, it can be tempting to try and save money by putting your parcel in a cheaper weight class than it actually is. However, if your parcel is found to be over the limit, you could come up against extra charges, or your delivery could be delayed – it’s just not worth the risk. Always weigh your parcel properly, complete with any packaging.

GET YOUR PACKING RIGHT

Make sure your parcel gets from A to B in perfect condition at precisely the right time by ensuring you’ve packed it right and all the labelling is clear.

  • Pick a container of appropriate size – under filled boxes may collapse, especially if there’s not enough padding or cushioning to keep the contents in place.
  • Make sure your box and your items are firmly secured with strong and durable tape, double layered boxes and use flexible plastic liners or box coverings.
  • Consider the climate of where you’re sending the parcel to. Is it snowing or does it rain frequently? Then waterproof packaging is a must.

DON’T ALWAYS RELY ON THE POST OFFICE

Contrary to popular belief, charges from the Post Office will often be higher than couriers as their operations cost more. Plus, the post isn’t always reliable and can’t guarantee a specific time or date that your package will arrive. Whereas, couriers can tell you exactly what day and time (down to the hour in some cases) it will get there.

If you’ve got something very large, heavy, temperature or time sensitive, or simply something that requires customer service that goes above and beyond what traditional post, then a courier may be the way forward for you. They can even offer handling specialists, CO2 offset services, import and export expertise, and liability cover. However, when you send something via any courier service is absolutely essential you use a reliable one. Always read online reviews to find the best courier company for you.

IN A HURRY? USE A COURIER

Couriers offer far more flexibility in terms of pricing, time frames, international delivery, and options for specialised delivery. Many couriers make use of freight pooling, which is a method used by express shipping companies to share space, splitting the costs, making it cheaper for all parties. When considering interstate freight cost, in particular, pooling is a great way to share the financial burden.

If you’re in a hurry to get your parcel to its destination, couriers have the upper hand as they have expertise in international logistics, plus their fees take into account customs paperwork which can hold processes up if not done correctly by the individual sender. You can even get door-to-door same day and next day delivery.

REMEMBER TO PROVIDE CONTACT DETAILS

Don’t want your package to get lost or delayed? Remember to provide your contact details as well the receivers. Either a phone or email address will be fine. If you’re sending your parcel abroad some countries won’t even attempt to deliver it without a phone number for the recipient. So don’t forget the contact details.

Remember these tips whenever you have a parcel to send and you can be sure it’ll reach its destination without a hitch.

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR PERSIAN RICE WITH POMEGRANATES, WALNUT AND PARSLEY

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Based on the classic Persian dish, Javaher Polow, this fruity rice is truly fit for a king and really shows off the amazing grain length of Amira Superior Aromatic rice. It makes a great side dish for a spicy stew or a succulent roast chicken. The buttery golden crust that develops on the bottom of the pan – traditionally called the tahdig – is a truly delicious treat.

What You Need

  • 300 g Amira Superior Aromatic rice
  • Generous pinch of saffron threads
  • 150 g Dried cranberries
  • 1 Large Onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 60 g Unsalted Butter
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 tsp Cardamon pods
  • 1 cumin seeds
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

To serve:

  • 100 g Walnuts, roughly chopped
  • Seeds picked from 1 large pomegranate or 110g pack ready prepared pomegranate seeds
  • Generous bunch of parsley, chopped
  • Finely grated zest from 1 orange
  • 1 Garlic clove, very finely chopped

Simply mix all of the ingredients together, and enjoy!

Amira’s Superior Aromatic and Pure Basmati products offer the highest quality rice available to consumers and can be found in Asda, Morrisons, Waitrose and Tesco.

THE IDEAL RECIPE FOR MINTED BEETROOT & FETA DIP

MINTED BEETROOT AND FETA DIP

 A easy, tasty and fresh dip! Serve this minted beetroot & feta dip with Manomasa, an exciting and versatile brand of premium tortillas with spirit

Offering a range of tortilla chips, “born in the backstreets of Mexico,” Manomasa pays tribute to the original tortilla chip – the totopo – using traditional Mexican techniques to create authentic tortillas, combined with exciting and original global flavours and ingredients.

If you have a food processor or stick blender this vibrant coloured dip can be blitzed together in minutes. Beetroot is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fibre, energy boosting natural sugars and body building protein, no wonder it is regarded as a super food.

Minted Beetroot & Feta Dip

Preparation: 15 minutes – Serves 4

Ingredients:

250 g (9oz) pack cooked beetroot in natural juices

11/2 teaspoons harissa spice paste

1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

110g (4oz) feta cheese, drained, crumbled

3 stems fresh mint, leaves torn from stems

4 tablespoons 0% fat Greek yogurt

1/2 pomegranate, seeds removed

160 g pack of Manomasa White Cheddar Tortilla Chips

Method:

  • Drain the beetroot juices into a processor or stick blender cup. Roughly chop the beetroot then blitz with the harissa, vinegar and a little salt and pepper until a coarse puree.
  • Reserve one quarter of the feta and a few  tiny mint leaves for garnish, strip the remaining leaves from the stems and add to the beetroot with the yogurt. Blend again until smooth.
  • Spoon the dip into a bowl, garnish with the remaining feta, reserved mint leaves and pomegranate seeds. Serve with the tortilla chips for dunking.

Cook’s Tip

Not a fan of mint or feta then flavour the dip with a little horseradish cream and chopped chives

The use of Manomasa’s adventurous flavours including Chipotle and LimeWhite Cheddar & the brand new Tomatillo Salsa are ideal for making quick and easy canapés, and are destined to show off the host’s culinary skills this summer.  Manomasa is available from Ocado (RRP: £1.99 per 160g pack) www.manomasa.co.uk

5 IDEAL TRAVEL METHODS TO SAVE YOU MONEY

We have become extremely dependant on our cars. And, whilst cars do have many benefits, there are many negative side-effects when we over-use them. Using cars for every small trip can affect our health, the environment and the amount of money we spend on travel each year. Over the years, many experts have looked at ways to reduce this dependence on cars. In many cases, the best solutions are often the simplest solutions when it comes to travel. Below are some of the most effective alternative travel methods that will save you money and improve your health.

WALKING

We’re not taking you for fools by saying this, walking is obviously the most basic way to get from one location to another. However, the widespread use of cars has reduced the amount of time we spend walking. In many cases, we use our cars for short journeys instead of walking. Over a long period of time this can add up to a lot of wasted fuel and excess money being spent. Getting into the habit of walking to local stores and other nearby places will reduce these unnecessary costs and keep you healthy as well. Encouraging family members to walk more will reduce the overall costs your family have to pay each year.

KICK SCOOTERS

Bring back your inner kid. These foot driven scooters are extremely popular with all age groups. They’re an effective way to travel, but they’re also an enjoyable way to go from one location to another. A wide range of these products are available from online stores like Skates.co.uk. The most popular models include stunt scooters, dirt scooters, foldable scooters, scissor scooters and carving scooters.

CYCLING

Cycling; it’s the perfect way to travel to destinations that may be too far away to walk to. If you live close to work, hopping on your bike each morning and evening can greatly reduce your daily travel costs to work. 

Sure the initial cost of a good quality bike is a bit of a blow, however it will save you money in the long run. Your work may even have a cycle to work scheme where employers can pay for  your bicycle and you can pay it back through a salary sacrifice arrangement of up to 12 months. Cycling is also a fantastic way to keep fit. 

ELECTRIC SCOOTERS

If you’re looking for a more powerful type of scooter, electric scooters could be the perfect solution for your travel needs. These scooters are available in a wide range of sizes, styles and models. There is less effort involved when you’re using this type of scooter and it’s an enjoyable way to travel.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

The electric car is getting more mainstream. It’s moved in from leftfield and is now driving in the middle of the road. With the UK government announcing plans to ban all petrol and diesel transport by 2040, hopefully saving the planet in the process, the electric vehicle (EV) is ready to take centre stage in an eco-friendly revolution over the next few years.

Electric vehicles aren’t only good for the planet, they’re good for your pocket too. According to the Guardian, an overnight charge of an EV that has a battery that can cover a 100-mile range will only cost £3–4, compared to travelling the same distance in a regular car that needs £18–19 of fuel.