Bottomless brunch has become a beloved tradition in the United Kingdom, offering a delightful fusion of breakfast and lunch accompanied by endless cocktails or bubbly. While there are numerous cities across the UK that offer this indulgent experience, here are some of the very best for bottomless brunch.
London
London is undoubtedly the epicentre of bottomless brunch in the UK. You’ll find a plethora of trendy venues offering an array of cuisines and drinks. The Breakfast Club in London Bridge is a popular choice, known for its delicious pancakes and creative cocktails. For a more upscale experience, Duck & Waffle in Heron Tower offers stunning views of the city and a luxurious brunch menu.
For those seeking a theatrical experience, Sketch in Mayfair offers a surreal setting in their pink-hued Gallery room, where bottomless champagne flows freely alongside dainty finger sandwiches and perfectly crafted pastries. The experience is elevated by classical string quartet performances on weekends.
Meanwhile, tucked away in Shoreditch, Gloria has become a cult favourite for their Italian-inspired bottomless brunch. Their maximalist décor and generous portions of authentic pasta dishes, paired with endless prosecco or their signature Spritz Gloria, create an atmosphere that’s both indulgent and playful.
Manchester boasts a vibrant bottomless brunch scene. Menagerie in Salford is a chic venue offering a glamorous brunch experience with bottomless Prosecco. Evelyn’s Café Bar in the Northern Quarter is a more relaxed option, famous for its hearty brunch menu and inventive cocktails.
The city’s creative Northern Quarter also hosts Common, a laid-back spot that’s mastered the art of casual yet quality bottomless brunch. Their Korean-inspired chicken and waffles, paired with unlimited spicy Bloody Marys or local craft beers, exemplify Manchester’s innovative culinary scene.
Let’s turn our attention to Nottingham next. This East Midlands city has a growing reputation for its bottomless brunch offerings. One standout venue is Das Kino, located in the Lace Market area. This unique venue combines unlimited sourdough pizza with free flowing prosecco and ping pong, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere.
Another fantastic Nottingham option is Pitcher & Piano on High Pavement. Nestled in a historic building, this venue serves up a delightful brunch with choices like smoked salmon and cream cheese bagels or a full English breakfast. The bottomless drinks include prosecco, bloody marys, and Aperol spritzes.
Nottingham’s bottomless brunch scene continues to evolve, with more venues joining the trend and offering unique experiences for brunch enthusiasts
Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital city doesn’t disappoint when it comes to brunch. Badger & Co on Castle Street offers a delightful brunch menu, complete with bottomless drinks. For a unique twist, The Lioness of Leith is known for its Mediterranean-inspired brunch and free-flowing mimosas.
Rose Street Garden has become the talk of the town with its glass-roofed courtyard setting, perfect for year-round brunching regardless of Scotland’s famously unpredictable weather. Their Scottish-fusion menu includes haggis bon bons and Highland Benedict, alongside unlimited prosecco or Edinburgh Gin cocktails.
The Witchery by the Castle offers a more opulent take on bottomless brunch, with its Gothic dining room providing a dramatic backdrop for dishes featuring Scottish seafood and game, paired with unlimited champagne.
In Birmingham, Gas Street Social near the canal is a popular spot for bottomless brunch, offering a diverse menu and creative cocktails. The Plough in Harborne is a cosy pub that serves a hearty brunch with unlimited drinks.
Alternatively, The Lost & Found, housed in a Grade II listed building, offers themed brunches in their botanical paradise, complete with Victorian-inspired cocktails and locally sourced produce. Over in the Jewellery Quarter, Saint Kitchen has earned a cult following for their modern British brunch menu featuring house-made crumpets and locally roasted coffee, alongside free-flowing prosecco or their signature Birmingham Iced Tea.
Bristol
Bristol’s food scene is second to none, and the city’s bottomless brunch venues are as diverse as the city itself. No. 4 Clifton Village offers an elegant brunch experience, while The Florist in the city centre provides a botanical-themed setting with bottomless options.
The city’s independent spirit shines through at Bambalan, perched above Colston Street with panoramic views of the city. Their Mediterranean-inspired bottomless brunch features mezze platters and wood-fired flatbreads, alongside spritzes and local cider. In Clifton, Amoeba has carved out a niche with their fusion bottomless brunch, offering everything from Korean fried chicken to Somerset brie toasties, all served with unlimited natural wines or local craft beers. These venues perfectly capture Bristol’s reputation for culinary innovation and sustainability
Brighton
Of course, no list of bottomless brunch destinations in the UK would be complete without everyone’s favourite place for a hen-do, Brighton. Rather than keep you here (those mimosas are waiting), we’ll instead redirect you to our rundown of the best places to eat brunch in Brighton. Cheers!
The Bottom Line
Whichever corner of the UK you find yourself in, you’ll find bottomless brunch options by the bucket load. Whether they end up in smashed flutes and slapped faces or a meal of good cheer and plenty of laughter depends on where you choose to imbibe. The above locations will see you right, we think.
Let’s put things plainly; those who dismiss the UK as a barren culinary wasteland and, in turn, assume that our cheese and wine scene is somewhat lacking, are, frankly, philistines.
In fact, the UK has long been celebrated for its lush pastures and the exceptional dairy products that result from them. Cheese, in its myriad forms, is a cornerstone of British culinary tradition, and – Francophiles, look away now – is often voted as superior over here than the product across the pond.
But what of ours wines? In recent years, British viticulture has blossomed, with English and Welsh wines gaining international acclaim and ‘reaping the rewards of a warming climate’ (a pretty perverse phrase, we have to admit). With both items in a seemingly unstoppable ascendancy, pairing them feels like the natural thing to do, don’t you think?
The Ascendancy Of British Cheese
British cheese has never been more revered on the global stage than it is today. With a history steeped in tradition, British cheesemakers have been perfecting their craft for centuries. However, it’s the recent surge in artisanal production and a renewed focus on quality and provenance that has truly elevated the status of British cheese. From the craggy farms of Scotland to the rolling hills of the West Country, a renaissance in cheese-making and the sheer variety of types of cheese on offer has taken hold.
British cheesemakers are now experimenting with new techniques and ingredients, while also reviving ancient recipes that had nearly been forgotten. The result is a stunning array of cheeses that are as diverse as the landscapes from which they hail. British cheeses are winning accolades at international competitions and are increasingly sought after by cheese lovers around the world. This newfound reverence is a testament to the dedication of British cheesemakers to their craft and the quality of the milk produced by the country’s exceptional dairy herds.
The Renaissance Of British Wine
British wine has undergone a renaissance, with vineyards in Kent, Sussex, and beyond producing wines that stand shoulder to shoulder with their continental cousins. The cool climate and chalky soil, akin to the terroir of Champagne, have proven ideal for growing grapes such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Bacchus, which yield sparkling and still wines of remarkable quality.
A Match Made In Heaven: British Cheese & Wine Pairings
Pairing wine with cheese is an art, balancing the intensity and character of each to create a harmonious experience. Here are some quintessentially British pairings that will truly hit the spot…
Stilton and English Sparkling Wine
By claudio Divizia via Canva
Stilton, the king of English cheeses, with its rich, pungent, and slightly spicy, tangy flavour, finds its match in the crisp effervescence of an English sparkling wine. The bubbles cut through the creaminess of the cheese, while the minerality complements its complex flavours. Try a glass of sparkling from the South Downs with a creamy wedge of Stilton for a regal pairing. Alternatively, a full bodied Rondo (we’re big fans of those produced by the White Castle Vineyard in Wales) is a beautiful match, too.
Cheddar and Somerset Pomona
Cheddar, arguably Britain’s most famous cheese export, hails from the village of Cheddar in Somerset. Its sharp, tangy taste and firm texture pair splendidly with Somerset Pomona, a fortified wine akin to port but made with apple juice and cider brandy. The sweetness of the Pomona balances the savoury depth of a mature Cheddar, creating a delightful contrast.
Cornish Yarg and Cornish White Wine
By Monkey Business Images via Canva
Cornish Yarg, wrapped in nettles for a distinctive earthy taste, is a fresh and creamy cheese that pairs beautifully with a light and zesty Cornish Camel Valley white. The wine’s citrus notes and plush but crisp finish complement the Yarg’s creamy texture and herbal undertones.
Red Leicester and Bolney Estate Pinot Noir
The nutty, slightly sweet Red Leicester with its firm texture is a delightful match for a medium-bodied Pinot Noir from Bolney Estate in Sussex. The soft tannins and red fruit flavours of the wine provide a lovely backdrop to the cheese’s mellow character.
By Nataly Hanin from Getty Images
Blue Vinny and Dorset White Wine
Dorset Blue Vinny, a crumbly blue cheese with a milder flavour than Stilton, pairs wonderfully with a Bacchus white wine from the Lyme Bay Winery in Dorset.
Talk about terroir! The wine’s minerality and slight sweetness will complement the tangy, spicy notes of the cheese, making for a balanced and enjoyable pairing.
Wensleydale and Yorkshire Heart Vineyard’s White Wine
The crumbly, mild, and slightly sweet Wensleydale cheese, often enjoyed with fruit, is a perfect companion to a floral and aromatic white wine from Yorkshire Heart Vineyard. The wine’s acidity and fruit notes will enhance the cheese’s subtle flavours without overpowering them.
Baron Bigod and Chapel Down Flint Dry
The creamy pungency of the acclaimed, Brie-like Baron Bigod pairs exquisitely with the crisp and aromatic profile of Chapel Down Flint Dry. This wine, with its hints of green apple and citrus, cuts through the richness of the cheese, making for a refreshing and palate-cleansing combination.
Caerphilly and Glyndwr Vineyard Red
The young, crumbly texture and the mild, creamy flavour of Caerphilly cheese is beautifully complemented by a light red wine from Glyndwr Vineyard in Wales. The subtle berry notes and gentle oak of the wine work in harmony with the cheese, creating a pairing that is both comforting and uplifting.
Isle of Mull Cheddar and Sharpham Vineyard’s Barrel Fermented White
The robust, hearty flavour of Isle of Mull Cheddar, with its slight peaty character from the island’s unique terroir, pairs wonderfully with the complexity of a barrel-fermented Pinot Gris ‘Little Bee’ from Sharpham Vineyard. The buttery notes and structured oak of the wine envelop the strong personality of the cheese, resulting in a luxurious taste experience.
Shropshire Blue and Astley Vineyard’s Late Harvest
By Barmalini from Getty Images
The striking orange hue and the rich, tangy flavour of Shropshire Blue cheese demand a wine that can stand up to its bold character. A late harvest wine from Astley Vineyard, with its luscious sweetness and concentrated fruit flavours, is an excellent counterpoint to the cheese’s sharpness, creating a pairing that is both indulgent and harmonious.
The Bottom Line
The burgeoning British wine scene, coupled with the country’s rich cheese heritage, offers a delightful playground for the gourmand. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, exploring the pairings of British cheese and wine is an adventure in taste that should not be missed. So, raise a glass and a slice of cheese to the best that Britain has to offer. Cheers!
If a global pandemic and an impending climate catastrophe have led to anything positive, it’s that many of us have come to realise just how important quality time spent with family is.
But in the modern world, if an occasion isn’t captured, recorded, photographed and shared, did it even happen? And whilst we’re living in an era of ‘collecting memories, not things’, there’s still something rather old school and romantic about preserving cherished memories of family get-togethers into a tangible, collectable form.
Interestingly, the very act of preserving these memories, by getting the family together for a crafts project, helps you create new memories. If you’re keen to do just that, then here are 8 great ideas for preserving cherished family memories.
Start Sending Out A Christmas Newsletter
You’ve probably been on the receiving end of a family newsletter at Christmas and rolled your eyes. Yep; they are often annoying, so impersonal and who wants to read about an oh so boastful litany of other people’s family achievements? If you think about it, Christmas newsletters could even be considered a form of slow social media.
Indeed, as the New York Times points out, “unlike an ephemeral online status update, detailing the quirks of each family member in one place makes revisiting the cards in later years especially rewarding”.
Yep, family newsletters as not only a wonderful way to update and perhaps bore your friends and kindred on what you and your family are up to, but they are a great keepsake to look back in years to come. Jampack your newsletter full of family trivia, highlight individual accomplishments and include some silly anecdotes, too. You might find these newsletters become the most cherished keepsakes of all.
Record Memories On Video & Even Audio Tape
We’re sure you’ve watched You’ve Been Framed; the program that delves into humorous home movies and camcorder calamities. Hours of entertainment watching this show wouldn’t have been possible without families recording special moments and memories.
We say bring back the spirit of those camcorder moments and start recording special or even everyday moments again. You can also harness the power of ever expanding technology and create an audio or videotape that documents memories in your household. This method helps preserve the memories by converting them into files on some sort of media, CDs, DVDs, or flash drives.
Or, if you taped a dinner conversation with your family (consent given first, of course!), you could convert that into an audio file and upload it to the cloud, then future generations would be able to listen and hear the voices of their ancestors, and perhaps have a good laugh in the process.
Create A Digital Time Capsule
Why not embrace modern technology to preserve memories in a uniquely contemporary way? A digital time capsule is rather like its physical counterpart, but instead of burying it in the garden, you’re creating a carefully curated collection of digital memories to be opened at a specific future date.
Start by creating a dedicated cloud storage folder or external hard drive specifically for this purpose. Fill it with photos, videos, voice recordings, and even screenshots of text messages or social media posts that capture the essence of your family life today. Include digital scans of children’s artwork, recordings of their voices, and perhaps some video interviews with family members sharing their thoughts about the present and hopes for the future.
What makes this particularly special is that you can add digital letters from each family member, written to their future selves or to future generations. You might include playlists of the music your family enjoys, digital copies of recipes that are family favourites, or even recordings of your regular family game nights. Consider adding them to a Kapsule on Kapshoo – you can then share them with your loved one and use their input to enhance the story. Pretty neat, huh?
The beauty of a digital time capsule is that you can set a specific ‘opening date’ – perhaps 10 or 20 years hence – and then encrypt the folder until that date arrives. You might even set up an automated email to be sent to family members when it’s time to open it. Imagine the joy and possibly hilarity of future family members discovering what life was like in the 2020s!
Don’t forget to back up your digital time capsule in multiple locations – after all, technology can be rather fickle, and you wouldn’t want these precious memories to be lost to a technical glitch!
Make A Scrapbook
Scrapbooking is a hands-on hobby that not only keeps those idle thumbs busy but also results in something tangible and traditional. And that’s why you’re here, right?
Scrapbooks are great because they show progression throughout your life with your family, and allow you to use a little creativity in their conception. Whilst fads, fashions and new scrapbook trends come and go, a traditional collection of memories still has a certain charm. You can even hand down scrapbooks to future generations; making a gift that packs a seriously sentimental punch.
Making a scrapbook is easy. First, you’ll need the right supplies. To make a scrapbook of your family memories, be sure to pick up some acid-free glue (this will keep your pictures from becoming yellow as they age), some page protectors that fit into your scrapbook, and some plastic or cardstock solid pages that contain pockets for photos.
Once you have your supplies, it’s time to start collecting memories! You can use any kind of memory to document in your scrapbook, but try not to save too much from one year. If you do this, you’ll want to label the different years so that there isn’t any confusion.
Perhaps the most enjoyable part of a scrapbook is that it needn’t only contain photos. Instead, some people like to save receipts or tickets from events that show the date or holiday. You can also cut out interesting articles from newspapers and magazines, and include recipes of your favourite meals as a family, menus of restaurants you love or keepsakes from holidays taken together. The world is your oyster…now, eat it!
Scrapbooking isn’t only for adults, kids love to do it, too! If there are children in your family, let them be involved by giving them their own scrapbook kit. These kits usually come with a few pre-decorated pages, stickers, and sometimes even pens or pencils so that they can draw in their book.
Could there be a more cherished final product?
Make A Family Tree
A family tree is an age-old, visual way to document your lineage, family history and see how everyone is related. Particularly useful for teaching the younger members of the family about their seniors, family trees can make for a wonderful hand-me-down, too.
And here’s something interesting; according to the Guardian, “children who have a strong “family narrative” enjoy better emotional health”. What better reason, then, to create a family one. You’ll need to:
Decide what type of “tree” you would like. There are many different types that you can choose from, such as a Descendant Tree, Waterfall Chart, a Life Bar Chart and many more types.
Gather family information such as birth and marriage certificates, census reports, and obituaries of deceased relatives. You can also include photos, documents, and newspaper clippings to make your tree more complete, though the charm of a family tree is in its accessibility, so don’t overload it with data.
Place the first person who started your family at the top of the tree. From here you can create branches for grandparents, then great grandparents and so on.
Draw the tree on paper or use a computer program designed to make family trees. Add colour to each generation of your family tree to make it more interesting and easier to distinguish visually.
Save the completed family tree in a binder with plastic sleeves or store it in a document box with dividers. A lovely idea here is to make copies for family members far and wide.
Create A Timeline Of Your Family’s History
Your family timeline is a great way to keep track of your family history, document important moments in your family tree and delve deep into a fascinating past. Here are the steps to create your family timeline:
Gather all records of your family’s history, such as birth and marriage certificates, photos, and documents such as marriage licenses and census reports. One place to store these is in a three-ring binder with pockets on the inside for protection.
Make a list of all the people in your family tree with birth and death dates, as well as marriage dates and locations.
Fill out the information you have on each person, where they were born and died, who their parents and siblings were, and any important events that happened to them
On a separate piece of paper, write family events that occurred. This can include births, deaths, marriages, military service for your relatives, or significant world events that happened during their lifetime.
Next to each event on your timeline, make a note of the source (i.e.: census report #XYZ). Include as much information as you know. For example, if you have a census report, write down the date it was taken and who gave the information. If your source isn’t listed in this document, add it at the bottom. This makes cross-referencing information easier…just in case your document is found in a hundred year’s time by your great grandchildren and they’re keen to fact check!
Use Software To Store Memories
There are many software programs designed to help you save your cherished memories and, ideally, preserve them forever safely and securely. These programs are great because they help you catalogue your family history and store important moments all in one place. Some popular choices are Legacy Family Tree (which is not free but has a 14-day trial), Ancestry, Roots Magic, or The Master Genealogist.
Every software program stores information slightly differently so it’s best to check with each company to check your unique needs are being met.
Take Good Care Of Heirlooms
Hands up if you love BBC’s The Repair shop? If you haven’t watched it, you should. In the series, some of Britain’s most skilled restoration experts breathe new life into much-cherished family heirlooms that are dropped off by members of the public who reveal the personal stories behind the items.
Most families have heirlooms that are valuable when it comes to remembering the past, from vintage jewellery to old books and vintage toys. Some of these items hold such a high emotional value that they cannot be sold for any price, and in such cases, it could be a good idea to collate these items in a safe, sanitised place to preserve them from decay or depreciation. And if they need a little TLC, you could always apply to take part in the next series of The Repair Shop!
There’s a massive Thai elephant standing in the centre of the starkly lit Cafe See Khao right now. That is; the best brunch in Bangkok doesn’t resides in here.
It’s found, instead, in a street level shophouse, where the same bowl of white-pepper heavy jok and jammy egg has been served for generations. Or, it’s the moo ping that’s just come off a makeshift grill at the bottom of the escalators, devoured before the train even pulls into the platform. Perhaps the best brunch in Bangkok has just been revealed under the lid of a bamboo steamer, where pert, perfect dim sum sit prettily in a row…
…but we’re here for a different interpretation of brunch today. You know, the one that involves bacon and eggs, pancakes and perhaps a little Prosecco. A thing to luxuriate over and indulge in. You might even call it a ‘Western’ brunch, but we couldn’t bring ourselves to in the title…
Anyway, in a city where ancient temples cast golden reflections across sleek skyscrapers, Bangkok’s eggs-and-bacon-adjacent brunch scene mirrors this same captivating duality. From historic shophouses transformed into sophisticated cafés to luxurious hotel spreads worthy of royalty (or, at the very least, some Hi-So folk), the capital’s weekend ritual of languorous brunching has evolved in recent years into something where the paradox of choice suddenly presents itself.
We’re here to help you with that choice; here are the best places to eat brunch in Bangkok.
*Prices and opening hours are correct at the time of publishing. We’ve mentioned prices in Thai Baht. ฿100 is roughly £2.25, and so on.*
Fran’s – Brunch & Greens (Sathorn)
Ideal for leisurely garden brunches with Bangkok’s thickest slab of caramelised bacon…
Hidden in a leafy corner of Sathorn, Fran’s occupies a glasshouse-style building surrounded by tropical greenery, offering both air-conditioned interior seating and a garden area that feels like something of a private oasis (a terrible cliche, we know, but a rare find in the city).
Their signature dish has earned a massive reputation across the capital, photographed constantly in round-ups such as these: thick-cut caramelised bacon atop creamy eggs on toast, priced at ฿450. It’s the kind of simple-sounding dish that relies entirely on execution, and here Fran’s nails it consistently. It’s our favourite brunch dish in Bangkok, bar none.
If you’re keen to experiment just a little, then Fran’s ‘Be Yourself Breakfast’ concept allows for customisation – choose your bread (from sourdough to English muffins), add your proteins and sides, and build your ideal plate.
The freshly baked section deserves attention too, with their bagels (priced at around ฿200) emerging warm from the oven throughout the day. For those seeking lighter fare, the Healthy Bowl selection offers virtuous options that don’t skimp on flavour, while the open-faced sandwich menu provides satisfying alternatives to traditional breakfast plates. Though perhaps calling them lunch might be appropriate…
The space itself strikes that perfect balance between style and substance – yes, it’s undeniably photogenic with its rattan chairs and abundant greenery, but it’s also genuinely comfortable. The garden area, shaded by mature trees, provides an exceptional setting for long, lazy brunches. Hmm, might as well order a Singha then…
Ideal for specialty coffee and hearty portions in a historic shophouse…
Housed in a 150-year-old former boat repair shop along Charoenkrung, Sarnies brings industrial-chic dining to one of Bangkok’s most atmospheric locations. This Singapore import maintains its heritage whilst striking a distinctly Bangkokian tone through teak beams and exposed brick walls, while adding comfortable modern touches that make it perfect for lingering brunches. And all without a single Ed Sheeran piano cover in sight…
The legendary Sarnies Fry Up is pitched at a premium ฿480, sure, but it delivers a proper British-adjacent breakfast with premium ingredients – think free-range eggs, house-smoked bacon, and quality sausages. You also have the option to pimp up your breakfast with all the usual suspects like baked beans, smashed avocado and even steak should you be feeling decadent.
Of course, the eponymous sandwiches are great, too. The Steak Sarnie sees grass-fed steak cooked to a blushing perfect pink, three cheeses, mushrooms, spicy onion jam with makrut lime aioli, all shoehorned into house focaccia. For something a little lighter, the smoked salmon bagel could rival New York’s finest.
The Bangkok iteration of Sarnies is particularly well known for blending Thai ingredients with Aussie-style grub. We’re huge fans of the Thai Sausage Muffin which sees a Northern Thai sai ua sausage patties topped with a fried egg and sandwiched between a freshly made English muffin. We’re very much down with the Tom Yum eggs Benedict too, which again shows a talent for local adaptation that remarkably doesn’t feel too gimicky. It’s the hollandaise sauce that harbours the tom yum element, all lime sharpness and chilli heat, and you know what? It works.
Look out for every-changing specials. Last National Singapore Day (9th August – get it in your diary for next year!), Sarnies paid tribute to the mothership branch with a Singapore chilli crab-inspired eggs Benedict – think crispy soft-shell crab, poached eggs, and XO tomato hollandaise over brioche. At the time of writing, the current special on the menu is a porchetta banh mi – that’s a slab of slow-cooked, crackled porchetta with smoky cheese and onion gravy mayo, packed into a house-made banh mi. Cranberry jam is served on the side; a nod to the impending Thanksgiving, presumably.
The coffee program deserves special mention – they roast their own beans weekly, and their baristas consistently deliver exceptional brews, with all the en vogue cold presses and siphons you could ever dream of. The Black Sesame Dirty is a heavy hitter, featuring and a house-made black sesame paste that adds a refined savoury note to the sweet milk.
P.s Sarnies has another branch in Sukhumvit with Japanese breakfast leanings. Try the Teishoku, a simple Japanese-style set meal typically enjoyed for breakfast or lunch – which of course, means it’s ideal for brunch too.
Mickey’s Diner (Phloen Chit)
Ideal for award-winning chef’s take on classic American diner comfort…
From the neon lighting to forest green booth seats and checkerboard accents, Mickey’s – helmed by acclaimed Michelin-starred chef Chalee Kader – brings 1950s Americana to the ground floor of Gaysorn Amarin.
Drawing inspiration from Kader’s time in San Francisco, the all-day breakfast menu champions American diner classics. The Mickey’s breakfast comes generous – featuring Canadian bacon, sunny-side-up eggs, homemade fries, a pork sausage patty, and pancakes. It’s genuinely hard to take down unless you’ve not eaten for several days. The fried chicken and waffles for ฿500 has earned its viral status too, striking that sweet spot between crispy coating and juicy meat, and justifying the price tag both in its generosity and fine balance of flavour.
Other brunch favourites include the Waffle’s Benedict, which sees a bouncy pork sausage and poached eggs atop a crispy waffle, generously covered with a velvety hollandaise sauce. Our personal favourite is a little more humble, though; a corned beef hash with golden, crispy potatoes, accompanied by two eggs. Wash it down with an essential balsamic Bloody Mary – yes, those are crispy rashers you see poking out of it.
For something uniquely Bangkok, the AFR School Cafeteria (฿385) offers a nostalgic twist on American fried rice, complete with fried chicken, pepper sausage, ham, and a runny fried egg. The milkshakes come thick enough to eat with a fork, while the homemade pecan pie with vanilla ice cream offers a genuine taste of the America. What’s not to love?
Ideal for a genuine slice of old Bangkok breakfast culture, unchanged since 1933…
Nestled along historic Charoen Krung Road, On Lok Yun feels like stepping into a Bangkok time capsule. The no-frills interior – worn formica tables and well worn-looking booths – is part of its enduring charm. This is breakfast stripped to essentials, served exactly as it has been for nearly a century.
Their Kai Kata, the signature Thai-style American breakfast, comes with your choice of bacon, ham, or Chinese sausage, the eggs still bubbling in their metal pans when they arrive at your table. For the sugar heads, the kaya toast remains brilliantly simple – crisp white bread served with a coconut and Thai tea-infused custard that just pairs so well with their strong local coffee.
We love On Luk Yun’s version of Milo Toast, too. Here, buttered bread is grilled over fragrant charcoal until crisp on the outside, soft within. It’s topped with condensed milk and sprinkled with an absolute sandstorm of malty Milo powder. Delicious, but do treat carefully; if you inhale it wrong you’ll be coughing and spluttering until tomorrow.
Don’t expect artisanal sourdough or carefully crafted flat whites – this is old-school breakfast fare, where the coffee comes thick and sweet, the eggs are consistently runny, and the service maintains its characteristic briskness. It’s the kind of place where locals rub shoulders with curious visitors, all drawn by honest food and a slice of Bangkok’s culinary heritage. It has got to be one of the best brunches in Bangkok for that reason.
Ideal for excellent breakfasts in a serene, sun-filled escape from Sukhumvit’s bustle…
In a part of town whose maze of sois and sensory overload can overwhelm the uninitiated, the Sukhumvit branch of Toby’s provides respite with its minimalist wooden interiors and abundance of natural light. Verdant touches of greenery and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with morning sunshine shed a new light on brunch for those a little jaded by the frenetic pace of the city outside.
If you’re serious about your breakfast (you are, that’s why you’re here), the breakfast board at ฿395 is the clear choice – a generous plate (yep, not a board) featuring eggs your way, smoked ham, little rose petals of smoked salmon, half an avocado, tomato salsa, sourdough toast on the side and some random berries. It’s substantial enough to carry you through until dinner.
Their Egg Mikado (฿350) is good too, featuring two perfectly poached eggs, house-cured salmon, and orange hollandaise atop toasted brioche, while the breakfast bruschetta for ฿295 brings together poached egg, tomato and avocado salsa, crispy bacon and feta with the faintest nod to the South Mediterranean.
For those puritanically porcine, The Bacon Rules (yeah, it does) sees bacon served five ways – maple glazed, smoked, short cut, as a sausage and as a jam. Pork is considered a symbol of family and gathering in Thailand – could there be a better brunch dish than one that symbolises this?
For the health-conscious, their plant-based protein oat bowl stands out, while the multi-grain toast selection provides lighter options without compromising on flavour. The drinks menu deserves special mention too – beyond the excellent coffee programme, they offer creative cold-pressed juices, healthy smoothies and rich milkshakes that could easily serve as dessert.
Ideal for creative global comfort food in a dog-friendly industrial-tropical setting…
Opened in 2016, Luka epitomises modern Bangkok dining – sophisticated yet unpretentious, with an interior that marries industrial elements with tropical warmth. Think exposed brick walls softened by woven lampshades, rattan furniture, and abundant natural light. The original Silom branch, tucked away off Pan Road, provides sanctuary from the neighbourhood’s bustle, while their newer Sukhumvit 31 location extends service into dinner hours.
Their self-described ‘global comfort food’ takes familiar brunch classics in creative directions. The Luka Breakfast Burrito arrives generously filled with organic eggs, Sloane’s sausage, black quinoa and avocado, while their shakshuka (฿350) brings Mediterranean flair with spicy tomato gravy, Sloane’s chorizo, and Greek yoghurt, all served with grilled sourdough. The latter is a beautifully balanced affair, its spicier notes tempered by cooling yoghurt. Hmmm, could I chase my next som tam with yoghurt, too?
That global touch extends further outwards, still, with the Gangnam-Style Chicken & Waffle. Showcasing thoughtful fusion, it sees a kimchi waffle and gochujang ketchup bringing verve to the always-exceptional Korean fried chicken. It’s fabulous.
For those seeking something more delicate, the Truffle Mushroom Scramblette deserves attention. This refined take on scrambled eggs comes laden with diced mushrooms and a generous drizzle of truffle cream, all served aside grilled sourdough and a smear of herb butter. It’s a dish that manages to feel both indulgent and light at the same time, which is often what you want from your brunch, right?
They haven’t forgotten their Bangkok roots either – the khao phad krapow neua offers a creative spin on Thailand’s beloved holy basil stir-fry. Using Eatvolution’s innovative chickpea rice as a base, it’s topped with tender slices of tenderloin, fragrant holy basil, crunchy pork crackling, and a perfectly crispy fried duck egg. Don’t worry if beef isn’t your thing – it works just as well with chicken breast.
On the other side of the calorie count, health-conscious brunchers aren’t forgotten; the açai bowl, blended with banana and coconut milk, topped with house-made granola and fresh fruit, makes virtue taste remarkable.
The drink selection spans expertly crafted coffees to fresh-pressed juices with playful names. Their baked goods deserve attention – the dense, zesty carrot cake with lemon cream cheese frosting has earned quite a following.
Ideal for quality ingredients and classic breakfasts without the Instagram theatrics…
When a restaurant proclaims itself “Thailand’s first and best restaurant specialising in breakfast”, it needs to deliver ‘cause that is quite the claim. Breakfast Story doesn’t quite live up to that billing (nowhere could), but it does offer a refreshingly direct approach that prioritises quality ingredients over presentation tricks.
Starting life as a modest operation, they’ve now expanded to six locations across Bangkok, each maintaining the same dedication to breakfast fundamentals. Their Phrom Phong branch, sitting pretty on the second floor above craft beer joint Hair of the Dog, exemplifies their focused approach to morning fare.
The menu reads like a greatest hits of breakfast classics, each executed with precision and high-quality ingredients. Their eggs are organic, their butter is real, and their maple syrup comes straight from Canada. Accordingly, the full stack of pancakes are the highlight, and a steal at ฿250. Arriving golden and light, they’re a texturally satisfying tower, that’s for sure.
For those whose sweet tooth isn’t activated this early, Story has a range of eggs Benedict options which showcase perfectly poached eggs with silky hollandaise. For the health-conscious, their homemade granola deserves special mention, available in both ‘summer’ and ‘winter’ variations at around the ฿200 mark, served with thick Greek yoghurt and fresh fruit. The smoothie bowls, particularly the Nutty Professor priced at ฿260, provide a substantial, sumptuous yet strangely scrupulous start to the day.
Finally, the bottomless American drip coffee here remains a rare find in a city dominated by espresso-based drinks – a detail that shows they understand what makes a great American breakfast spot tick.
Ideal for art-filled brunching where pop culture meets hangover cures…
In a dining scene filled with formulaic White Cafés, Chim Chim offers something more distinctive. This design-forward space combines mid-century modern furniture with contemporary art installations – think mustard-yellow chairs, sage green panelling, and striking pop art adorning the walls. It’s a refreshing change.
Talking about refreshing and rejuvenating, the hangover brekkie at ฿425 delivers exactly what you want after a big night – two eggs any style, bacon, pancakes, mushrooms, hash browns and sourdough toast, with your choice of pork or chicken sausage. It’s the full works, but if your hangover isn’t sufficiently dusted off, then move on to their salmon Benedict, which elevates the classic with thoughtful additions like ikura and crisp hash browns. There’s a crab omelette too, which brings Thai influences to the fore with its yellow curry sauce and crispy shallot garnish.
From the sugary side of the menu, the Sweet Charcoal Stax hit the spot. How could it not, when topped with caramelised grilled banana, peanut butter sauce, and candied peanuts.? Save room for yuzu meringue croissants, and then spend the day feeling very sick indeed.
The coffee programme sources beans from various Thai regions, with four different brewing methods available. Their signature coffee drinks show real invention – the Black & White combines espresso with tonic water, palm syrup and fresh mint. Their partnership with Monsoon Tea means you can enjoy exceptional wild-grown teas from northern Thailand.
Health-conscious brunchers aren’t forgotten, with the coconut chia pudding and açai bowl providing lighter options that don’t compromise on flavour or that much-needed sense of brunch-time generosity.
The Anantara Siam’s Sunday brunch has long set Bangkok’s standard. Extending from the beautiful Parichart Court through multiple dining spaces, this is less a meal and more a weekly gastronomic festival, accompanied by live jazz floating through the air and plenty of roaring, lubricated diners.
The spread is nothing short of opulent. Starting in the courtyard, where diners gather around towers of fresh seafood on ice, the feast extends through various culinary stations that span global cuisines: Latin American ceviche, Middle Eastern mezze, Indian tandoor classics, and premium Japanese sashimi all make appearances. This isn’t about quantity alone (it kinda is, let’s be honest) – each dish has been treated with respect.
The leafy courtyard setting, with its koi ponds and traditional Thai sala, provides an elegant backdrop for what becomes a sophisticated social occasion. Bangkok’s cosmopolitan crowd drifts between stations as the jazz band maintains the mood, and everything feels rather dignified before the free flow truly flows.
The Veuve Clicquot package at ฿4,700++ offers good value for those who enjoy endless premium bubbles (and heartburn) with brunch, and there’s also a non-alcoholic option (฿2,700++) for the members of the squad more focused on the food. The à la carte menu provides additional made-to-order options if the extensive buffet somehow isn’t sufficient. Though, as the old saying goes; if you’re tired of the extensive Anantara Siam buffet, you’re tired of life…
You can check out our review of the hotel’s sister place, the Anantara Riverside, here.
Ideal for a high-society spectacle with theatrical food stations…
Another one that trades on a vibe of extravagance and luxury, The W’s twice-monthly Saturday brunch transforms meals into events. Set against amber-lit mosaic walls and sleek contemporary design, this is where Bangkok’s so-called Hi-So crowd gather, for better or for worse – all while enjoying one of the city’s most theatrical brunch spreads.
The food offering here has a last days of Rome sense of occasion: 10-hour slow-smoked Wagyu brisket, Fine de Claire oysters, and a full seafood-on-ice station. Interactive elements add entertainment – pasta finished in giant parmesan wheels, croffles (croissant-waffle hybrids) pressed to order, and a ramen station serving steaming bowls of tonkotsu broth with all the trimmings.
The cheese and charcuterie selection impresses, featuring aged prosciutto di Parma alongside European cheeses from creamy brie to pungent stilton. The BBQ station delivers with glazed ham, brined and smoked whole chicken, and tender pork ribs. Christ it’s absurd in its excesses.
The dessert spread matches the ambition – everything from W’s signature egg tarts to Sicilian cannoli makes an appearance, alongside macarons and picture-perfect fruit tarts. It’s the kind of spread that demands you skip breakfast (and possibly dinner the night before).
Opening Hours: Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month
Price range: ฿1,672 net with soft drinks, ฿2,545 including alcoholic beverages
Bangkok’s brunch scene spans everything from modest local joints to five-star hotel extravaganzas. Book ahead for popular venues, especially on Sundays. And if you’re heading to one of the hotel brunches, arrive hungry and clear your afternoon schedule – you’ll need both the appetite and the time to do them justice.
Whether you’re in pursuit of a tranquil retreat for your family holidays or a savvy investment opportunity, purchasing a holiday home can be both an exciting and daunting endeavour. Of course, it goes without saying that the location of your holiday home plays a (perhaps the most) crucial role in determining its profitability.
As a savvy investor – apologies for making assumptions – it’s important to consider not only the price of the property but also its potential rental yields, tourist appeal, and long-term capital gains. With that in mind, here are some of the most potentially lucrative locations for Brits to own a holiday home.
Cornwall, England
Cornwall is arguably the UK’s quintessential holiday home hotspot and one of the South West’s most beloved staycation destinations. With its stunning coastline, charming villages, and mild climate, it is one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations. Its strong holiday letting market is underpinned by a high demand for short-term rentals, particularly during the summer. It provides an attractive income stream, making Cornwall a profitable choice for holiday home investors.
The Lake District, England
Proudly named as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Lake District’s breathtaking landscapes and range of outdoor activities – both active and languid – make it a year-round attraction. This ensures the possibility of continuous rental yields, uninterrupted by the wants and whims of peak and off season. Buying a holiday home here could be a smart investment move, especially around Windermere and Ambleside, where property prices are high but so are rental rates.
Edinburgh, Scotland
If you’re considering an urban location, Edinburgh’s thriving tourism industry makes it an incredibly profitable choice. The city sees a consistent stream of tourists year-round due to its historical and cultural appeal, further boosted by events like the Edinburgh Festival. A holiday home in Edinburgh is not only a solid investment but it also offers the owner a cultural hub to explore.
Let’s bounce from the UK now, in search of pastures new and exciting on the continent. Financially viable and geographically desirable, the ancient capital of Cyprus, Paphos offers a robust holiday rental market with a continuous demand from European tourists. The city also offers favourable tax conditions for foreign property owners. An additional benefit is the potential for long-term capital gains, given Cyprus’ growing economy and rising property prices.
The city’s international airport provides excellent connections to major UK cities, and the year-round Mediterranean climate ensures a steady stream of visitors well beyond the peak summer months. Property prices in Paphos remain relatively competitive compared to other Mediterranean destinations, particularly in up-and-coming areas like Universal and Kato Paphos.
Costa del Sol, Spain
Spain’s “Sun Coast” continues to be a magnet for British property investors, particularly around upmarket areas like Marbella and Estepona. Before diving in, you’ll need to obtain a NIF number (Spanish tax identification number) – a crucial first step for any property purchase in Spain. The Costa del Sol’s year-round sunny climate and excellent infrastructure make it particularly attractive for both personal enjoyment and rental potential.
The region’s proximity to Málaga Airport, with its extensive connections to UK cities, adds to its appeal. While property prices here can be higher than in some other Spanish coastal areas, the strong rental demand – especially during the extended summer season from April to October – can provide impressive returns on investment.
Algarve, Portugal
Portugal’s Algarve region is popular among Brits for its sun-drenched coastlines and golf courses. It boasts a thriving holiday rental market, which results in rewarding rental yields. Furthermore, Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime can offer tax benefits for British expats, enhancing the profitability of owning a holiday home in the Algarve.
The region’s excellent infrastructure, centered around Faro International Airport, makes it easily accessible for tourists throughout the year. Areas like Vilamoura and Lagos are particularly sought after, combining traditional Portuguese charm with modern amenities and strong rental potential.
Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca’s popularity as a holiday destination combined with its strong rental market makes it an appealing choice for investors. The island’s strong local laws protecting the landscape mean that new development is limited, increasing the value of existing properties.
The island’s exceptional transport links through Palma Airport ensure steady visitor numbers throughout the year, while its sophisticated infrastructure and high-end tourism sector attract a discerning clientele. Areas like Port d’Andratx and Pollença are particularly popular with international buyers, offering a blend of luxury living and strong rental prospects.
Or, also part of the Balearic Island archipelago and with an excellent culinary tradition and restaurant scene, more laid back atmosphere and slightly more affordable house prices, Menorca offers an interesting alternative.
Florida, USA
For those willing to invest further afield, Florida’s strong tourist appeal – with attractions like DisneyWorld and Universal Studios – ensures a steady rental demand. Florida also has favourable property laws for foreign investors and the potential for substantial long-term returns.
Top Tips For Creating The Perfect Holiday Rental
Of course, it’s not only about location. Your holiday rental also needs to look and feel the part if it’s going to be profitable.
Doing Your Due Diligence
Above all, and regardless of where you choose to make a purchase, you need to treat your holiday rental like a business if it’s to succeed as an investment. Handling all of your important details will help your tenants or guests enjoy their vacation, and will let you increase your revenue while maintaining your peace of mind.
Create separate business checking accounts for any property that you’re using as a holiday rental. Consider your financing resources and what price points will help you continuously get the best ROI.
Investing in another country is a much larger undertaking, and requires more of your time, money, and effort. The reward potential is also greater, so don’t shy away from doing your due diligence.
Make sure that you also get to know the banking system in the country. Understand interest rates, financing opportunities, and what is required to put these sorts of deals together.
Make It Somewhere You’d Want To Stay
Business aspects aside, make sure that you go all out to make the holiday rental somewhere that you’d want to spend a trip. This means fully furnishing it and making sure that you add art and decorative elements. Hire cleaning professionals to turn the rental over for you each time someone books. This way, they’ll have a clean and luxurious experience. Add little touches like providing people water and champagne on the first day that they check in. These little details make all the difference in the world and will help you get repeat visitors.
Blend Travel With Investing
The world is your oyster when you’re looking for travel-based investment opportunities. If you love to travel, have an interest in other cultures and attractions, or simply fancy the travel industry, these strategies can help you create the perfect holiday rental. Start with these words of advice as you grow your portfolio and travel opportunities at the same time.
The Bottom Line
When considering these locations, it’s crucial to remember that profitable holiday home ownership isn’t only about the potential rental income. Consideration should also be given to the potential capital appreciation of the property, the local regulations regarding property ownership and rental, the tax implications, and the desirability of the location for personal use.
Nevertheless, owning a holiday home can be a reliable and profitable investment when the location is carefully chosen, the local market is well-understood, and the property is well-managed. With these key considerations in mind, whether nestled in the idyllic landscapes of the Lake District or basking in the sun-kissed shores of the Algarve, your dream holiday home can become a tangible asset in your investment portfolio.
So, you’re moving to the City of Gold, also known as the Sand Paradise and sometimes called the Gulf Tiger? When you reel off those glamorous, intoxicating nicknames, upping sticks to Dubai sounds swell. Care to sneak us along in your suitcase?
But it’s not all massive buildings, swanky restaurants and several zeros added to your bank balance with each connection you make. Instead, you’ll find Dubai a city of dichotomy. Though there’s convenience and comfort to be found in spades here, it’s also a place capable of delivering a pretty massive culture shock to first-timers, with extreme weather and a new set of customs to get acclimatised to.
We’re here to help you settle in. Covering everything from how to rent a car in Dubai to the finest food in the city-state, here are 8 useful tips for expats moving to Dubai, IDEAL for those looking settle in seamlessly.
Respect The Local Culture & Customs
Before you dive into the logistics of your move to Dubai, it’s crucial to understand and respect the emirate’s cultural and religious customs. As a Muslim country, the UAE observes Islamic traditions, and while Dubai is known for being one of the most progressive cities in the Middle East, certain social norms should be followed.
Dress codes are generally conservative, particularly in public spaces like malls, markets, and government buildings. While beachwear is perfectly acceptable at the beach or pool, it’s important to dress modestly elsewhere. For women, this means covering shoulders and knees, while men should avoid going shirtless outside of beach areas.
During Ramadan in Dubai, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited, even for non-Muslims. Many restaurants will be closed during the day, though some will offer discrete dining areas for non-fasting individuals. The holy month brings a unique atmosphere to the city, with shorter working hours and lively evening festivities that are worth experiencing.
Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum, and unmarried couples should be aware that cohabitation is technically not permitted under UAE law, though this is rarely enforced in practice for expatriates. Additionally, be mindful that taking photographs of people without their permission is illegal, as is using offensive gestures or language in public.
Understanding these cultural nuances will not only help you avoid any inadvertent faux pas but will also enrich your experience of living in this fascinating city where tradition meets modernity.
Deciding On An Area To Live
Should you be heading to Dubai without a place secured, eager to see which neighbourhood feels right for you, then firstly, may we compliment you on your forward-thinking? We agree, it’s best to get a lay of the land first, before settling on somewhere to live, as each area offers something different, whether you’re a family seeking somewhere peaceful, or a young professional out on your own and wanting a more stimulating experience.
Whilst we wouldn’t want to state the obvious, Downtown Dubai – referred to as the Centre Of Now – has loads going on, with some seriously high-end shopping and dining options. It’s busy, bustling and full of energy, and where the most famous landmarks, such as the towering Burj Khalifa, are located.
As such, it’s perfectly suited to those young professionals we mentioned earlier. That said, it’s going to cost you, with a one bedroom apartment in Downtown Dubai coming in at an average of £1700 a month. For families, you should also be aware that there are no schools downtown, though there are great transport links to several provided.
The most expensive areas in Dubai to own a property (and that’s saying something) are Palm Jumeirah, Emirates Hills and Dubai Marina, the latter of which is home to some of the most exclusive properties in the UAE. Speaking of which, should you be moving to Dubai as a young couple, and still want to be amongst the action but with a little more elbow room, Dubai Marina is where it’s at.
For something more affordable, Mirdif is still pretty centrally located, with several schools, a park, tennis courts and a shopping mall, and is popular with expats. Be warned that rush hour traffic in and out of Mirdif can be pretty frustrating. For expat families who are looking to spread out a little more, Arabian Ranches is the perfect choice.
Transport Smarts
Navigating your way around the City of Gold can be a thrilling experience, but it’s also essential to understand the various modes of transport available to you. Dubai boasts a well-structured and efficient transport system, making it easy for expats to get around.
Dubai Metro
The Dubai Metro is a state-of-the-art, driverless, fully automated rail system that is clean, fast, and efficient. Although it’s not extensive, it serves major tourist attractions, business hubs, and residential areas. There are two lines: the Red Line, which runs through the heart of the city, and the Green Line, which circles the Creek in Deira and Bur Dubai. The metro operates from 6 am to 11 pm Saturday through Thursday, and from 2 pm to midnight on Fridays.
Taxis
Taxis are abundant, metered, and reasonably priced in Dubai. They can be hailed down on the street, booked online, or through various taxi booking apps. Dubai taxis are regulated by the government, and all drivers are professional and courteous. Be aware that during peak hours, finding a taxi might be a bit challenging.
Buses
Dubai’s bus network is extensive, serving over 140 routes across the city. The buses are modern, air-conditioned, and equipped with facilities for people with disabilities. They’re a cost-effective way to travel, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
Trams
The Dubai Tram operates in the Marina and JBR area, providing connectivity to the Dubai Metro and the Palm Monorail. The trams run every 6 minutes, and it’s a convenient way to travel around these areas.
Car Rentals
If you prefer the freedom of driving, car rentals are widely available. However, keep in mind that traffic in Dubai can be heavy, especially during rush hours, and parking can be a challenge in busy areas. Also, remember that in the UAE, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Should you choose to rent here, remember that the steering wheel will be on the left side of the car!
Bicycles
For short distances, consider renting a bicycle. Dubai has been increasingly promoting cycling, with dedicated cycling paths in specific areas of the city.
Abra (Water Taxi)
For a more traditional mode of transport, try the Abra, a type of water taxi found in Dubai. It’s a fun, inexpensive way to cross the Dubai Creek and offers a fantastic view of the city’s skyline.
Climate Cautious
The famous Dubai heat is certainly not to be underestimated. Temperatures routinely break the 40°C barrier in the sprawling summer months (from May to September) and don’t dip much below the mid twenties for the rest of the year. Indeed, don’t be surprised if the heat is pushing 50°C at times.
Although there’s some serious air-con going on indoors in Dubai, do be aware that this can lull you into a false sense of security. When you step outside or enter a vehicle, even for a second, you’ll feel that heat. If you’re heading out to enjoy the beach or one of Dubai’s famous water parks, do so early, before the midday sun bears down, stay hydrated and apply strong sunscreen, particularly between 10am and 4pm when the UV strength is considerably higher.
Work Smarts
Should you be travelling to Dubai with the intention of finding a job once you arrive, then be aware that any foreign national (aside from those from UAE) will first need a Residency Card in order to then obtain a Labor Card.
Nearly all of those intending to work in Dubai will have already secured work, and their company will have, in turn, secured them a Labor Card. That said, you can enter on a Tourist’s Visa (which grants you a stay of 60 days in the country) and then look for work.
To assist your company with their application for your Labor Card, you’ll need that aforementioned Residency Visa, a passport with at least six months until expiry, three copies of your work contract, a clean bill of health, proof of qualifications and education, and the trade licence of the company you’re working for.
Should you be arriving with the intention of starting a business in Dubai, you’ll need to find a local sponsor in the form of an already established company or businessperson, who will be a 51% partner, as standard.
Dubai has a fully appointed housekeeping industry, with the majority of expat households hiring the services of a housekeeper, cleaner, cook, security guard and more for the duration of their time in the city. If you’re not familiar with this level of help, it may feel strange at first, but if you’re paying fair wages and treating your housekeeper with the maximum levels of respect, then the arrangement works well for all parties.
Where once your landlord would pass on a recommendation for housekeepers or provide one with the property, now expats tend to use apps to find home help around the home. The justmop.com app is the preferred platform for many.
Feed Me
Like all things in Dubai, restaurant prices here are sky-high. If you’ve money to burn on foie gras topped with gold leaf and caviar, then be our guest. Actually, don’t; you sound expensive to host.
If you’re up for something more authentic, head out of the malls and onto the road. Around Old Dubai you can find cheaper restaurants with loads of traditional, family style food on offer. While Dubai doesn’t have a street scene as such, if you head to Al Rigga Street, you’ll find amazing Arabic shawarma, manakeesh and sweet treats like luqaimat to titillate your taste buds.
For groceries, some of the most ubiquitous, reliable stores include Spinneys, Al Maya Supermarket and, believe it or not, Waitrose. However, for ease, many online supermarkets operate in Dubai, delivering groceries, toiletries and everything you need right to your front door. Many expats avail themselves of such a service to avoid the blistering heat endured walking between shops.
Though English is widely spoken in Dubai, and is the preferred tongue for doing business as well as being ever present in the tourism sector, if you’re to get under the skin of the city, it’s best to learn some Arabic.
In Dubai, the Emirati dialect of Arabic is spoken, but a more standard Arabic will be understood everywhere.To learn most efficiently, there are several language centres in Dubai, with the Headway Institue, The Arabic Language Centre, and the Iqraa Arabic Learning Centre being the three most highly regarded.
Would you believe it, but the official definition of the UK winter doesn’t begin in earnest until 21st December! Yep, even with those temperatures dipping towards zero and the country swathed in anticyclonic gloom, it’s still only mid Autumn guys. Brace yourselves…
Phew, what a year this has been, and there’s still six weeks of it left! Lord, have mercy. But rather than invoking the assistance of the big guy (or girl) upstairs, instead, we’re taking proactive steps today to bring some positivity and hope into our lives.
The last few years have seen a huge increase in homeowners turning their hand to DIY, either out of boredom or necessity, and the final third of this year looks set to be no different. Particularly, to celebrate the change of the seasons and hopefully represent something of a new beginning, professional and budding interior designers alike are turning to colour to provide that catalyst for change.
If you’re wondering where to start, and what’s hot and what’s not, then read on. We’ve spoken to a host of experienced interior design teams about the shades of the season, and here are their top colour tips for autumn and winter 2024.
Prediction Versus Reality
Back in those heady, half-optimistic days of 2019, the Pantone Colour of the Year for 2020 was declared as ‘classic blue’.
”Classic Blue was chosen because it highlights desire for a dependable and stable foundation on which to build as we cross the threshold into a new era,” they prophesied back in December of 2019.
A dependable, stable foundation for a new era? Someone was having a laugh. But hindsight is a wonderful thing, and four years on, in these topsy turvy times – of national economic uncertainty and international, geopolitical turmoil – we need that sense of reassurance more than ever. Shades of classic blue then, particularly in the bedroom, might be a smart move, channelling interior design trends and soothing a tired soul, equally.
But should the irony of painting your bedroom walls such a strong and stable colour this year be just too jarring to bear, why not channel another big trend of 2024, and harness the power of ‘white on white’?
The interior designer Breeze Giannasio declared via Good Housekeeping that “while this might have been a sterile envelope before, it’s only getting more subtle and layered”. Hey, personally, we think that right now, evoking a sterile, clean atmosphere might be just the ticket. So, let’s talk about white…
Save A Sanctuary
In autumn and winter, with folk spending more time at home, we expect the importance of a cherished bedroom space to rise further still. Interestingly, Schemes, who supply decorative paint in Dubai, tell us that recent home decor trends in the room ‘where the magic happens’ favour whites and greys in all their unassuming, self-effacing glory.
Combining these two colours, then, is the quickest route to a calming space. White is also implicative of fresh starts, and a blank canvas for the rest of the year and beyond.
Pairing fresh white linen (always a winner) with off white walls, a dusky grey carpet paired with earthy colour accents to remind us of the outdoors – via throws or cushions – makes a gloriously steadying triumvirate, don’t you think? And that’s something we all need right now.
Dark & Dazzling Jewel Toned Interiors
This autumn-winter season, go bold by adding a rich and oh-so sophisticated palette to your home. Dark interiors have been on trend for several seasons now and when the temperature drops, there’s no better time to embrace this aesthetic.
Jewel-toned interiors are all about adding colours that are richly saturated in the same hues as gorgeous gemstones; think sapphire blue, ruby red, amethyst purple, citrine yellow, and emerald green, in particular. Just as you do with your clothes, the autumn-winter season is all about layering your interiors, so start with deep, dark wall colours then add jewel-toned accessories. Play with texture by adding soft furnishings like faux fur or velvet, which give a sheen to darker colours like sapphire and emerald green.
Bring your jewel tone to life with metallic touches which not only give a luxurious edge, but brighten up darker tones up. We’re thinking of brass lamps and candlesticks, gold trays and vases for that glamorous yet sophisticated phrasing.
Changing from a neutral to rich look can be daunting, so consider contrasting these intense colours against a neutral backdrop for best results, as some of the UK’s best current interior designers tend to advise.
Bring Yourself Back Down To Earth
As the days get colder and the nights draw in, it might be a wise move to bring the outside in, and channel the natural, earthy, warm tones of autumn in your living room.
Auburns, oranges, rust, forest green and teal are just some of our favourites from the Fall colour palette, and in lieu of crunching fallen leaves underfoot, why not herald the arrival of a new season by changing up the colourscape domestically, in the living room?
This change in palette needn’t mean repainting the walls again (you only just rendered everything white on white, after all) but rather, a change up in the finer details. Consider an accent wall in an autumnal shade; rust on white sounds kinda classy, after all. Or, introduce a piece of statement furniture; perhaps a wingback power chair in teal, sitting in a corner, sounds just the ticket?
Don’t neglect texture either, which is a mainstay of autumnal interior design. To your sofa, adding additional throws, cushions, rugs and blankets in the shades of the season will add warmth both visually and physically. We love it.
Shades Of Productivity
With more of us working from home than ever, it’s time to introduce some more permanent features to help your #WFH be as efficient and productive as it can be.
We’re here to talk colour today, so firstly, a little psychology on the subject. In general, it’s been posited by experts that colour does indeed affect behaviour, sometimes in surprising ways, with blue shades affecting your mind; yellow your emotions; red your body; and green your ‘balance’. So, rather than simply painting your home office the most productive colour (which, according to Google, is blue) you should fine-tune your decisions to match both your job’s responsibilities and your working style.
For creative work, strong shades of yellow can stimulate imagination, while more muted tones will engage a more emotional side to your work; choose wisely here for the ideal output on the page. Red encourages a certain kind of physicality (the starker, the more aggressive, generally) so if you’re working from home doing something which involves the body, such as personal training via Zoom, then definitely harness the power of rouge.
Green shades, including those autumnal hues we encouraged earlier, are calming; superb for problem solving and lateral thinking. And blue is said to invigorate mind work. Though it’s said they ‘should never be seen’ together, green and blue in your home office will likely encourage focused, balanced thinking throughout the day.
Why not harness the power of each colour in a task dependant way, with interior design flourishes which are transient and flexible; think houseplants in different shades which you can move into view as the day’s role demands it. Or, a cacophony of colour via artwork and sculpture, if you can handle the productivity overload!
That idyllic beachfront café in Bali might offer the perfect Instagram backdrop for your workday, but it’s also a potential goldmine for cybercriminals. As more of us swap office chairs for airline seats, protecting our digital workspace has become as crucial as packing a universal adapter.
Picture this: you’re finalising a crucial client project from a gorgeous rooftop café in Chiang Mai. The WiFi’s free, the coffee’s sublime, and you’re living the dream. But that dream can quickly turn into a nightmare if your client’s data ends up compromised because of an unsecured network. It’s a scenario that plays out more often than you’d think – according to recent studies, digital nomads are three times more likely to experience data breaches than office-based workers, largely due to the nature of constantly changing work environments and reliance on public WiFi networks.
Essential Cybersecurity Kit For The Modern Nomad
The beauty of the digital nomad lifestyle lies in its simplicity – a laptop and good WiFi connection can create an office anywhere in the world. However, that simplicity needs to be balanced with robust security measures. Think of your cybersecurity toolkit as your digital travel insurance; you hope you’ll never need it, but you’ll be grateful to have it when things go wrong. Just as you wouldn’t travel without insurance or your passport, these tools should be non-negotiable components of your mobile office:
Your Digital Travel Insurance
A reliable VPN (your first line of defence against dodgy WiFi)
Two-factor authentication for all crucial accounts
Encrypted cloud storage for client files
Regular backup solutions that work offline
Smart Working Habits For Safer Adventures
Security isn’t just about having the right tools – it’s about developing habits that protect your digital workspace wherever you roam. The challenge lies in maintaining these habits when you’re working from a different location every week, or even every day. The key is to establish routines that become second nature, regardless of whether you’re in a high-end co-working space in Singapore or a beach shack in Goa.
On The Ground Rules
Never access banking sites on public WiFi without VPN protection
Take control of your data by regularly clearing browser caches and cookies, and removing personal information from Google, if necessary
Keep work and personal browsing separate (preferably on different browsers)
Use mobile hotspot for sensitive work when café WiFi feels sketchy
The Co-Working Advantage
The allure of working from picturesque cafés is undeniable, but there’s a strong case to be made for choosing established co-working spaces, especially when handling sensitive client work. These spaces have evolved far beyond just providing desks and WiFi – they’re professional environments designed with remote workers in mind, offering layers of security that no café can match. The investment in a co-working membership often pays for itself in terms of enhanced security and productivity:
Whilst beachfront cafés are tempting, consider these safer alternatives:
Established co-working spaces with enterprise-grade security
Private meeting rooms for confidential client calls
Secure, dedicated WiFi networks
Built-in community of fellow digital professionals
When Paradise Gets Problematic
Even with the best preventive measures, security incidents can still occur. The key to managing these situations lies in preparation and swift action. Think of it like travel insurance – you hope you’ll never need it, but having a clear plan in place makes all the difference when things go wrong. The most successful digital nomads aren’t those who never face problems; they’re the ones who know exactly what to do when issues – both in terms of data and finances – arise.
Creating an incident response plan might seem overly cautious, but it’s a crucial part of professional remote work. This isn’t about being paranoid – it’s about being prepared. Consider these your emergency protocols:
Immediate password changes across all platforms
Client notification protocols (have these ready before you need them)
Local tech support contacts in your frequent destinations
Backup work devices ready to deploy
The Professional Edge Of Security
In today’s digital landscape, strong security practices aren’t just about protection – they’re a valuable selling point. Clients are increasingly aware of cyber risks, and demonstrating that you take their data security seriously, even while working remotely, can set you apart from the competition. This professional approach to security needs to be comprehensive and visible to clients without being intrusive to your workflow.
Consider this your professional security framework:
Regular security audits of your digital workspace
Professional-grade encryption for client communications
Clear protocols for handling sensitive information
Regular updates to all security software
The Bottom Line
The digital nomad lifestyle offers unprecedented freedom, but that freedom requires responsibility. Investing in proper cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting yourself—it’s about ensuring you can deliver the professional service your clients expect, whether you’re working from London or Laos.
Remember: true location independence means being able to work confidently and securely from anywhere. After all, what’s the point of that perfect beach office if you’re too worried about security to enjoy the view? By implementing these security measures and maintaining vigilant practices, you can focus on what matters most – delivering great work while exploring the world.
Thinking about getting a new fragrance? Us too! However, finding a perfume that you like is no mean feat. Firstly there are the notes to think about – are you a woody and spicy type of person, or are you more citrus and floral? And hands up if you actually know the difference between Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum?
Didn’t think so. Well, the below will serve as a great starting point to finding your IDEAL scent.
Understand Perfume Types
Before you enter into a new relationship with a perfume, you’ve got to have an understanding of how intense you want that relationship to be. Different types of perfumes provide different intensity because they differ based on oil concentration. Here’s a quick rundown of common perfume types:
Parfum, the most potent, contains 20-30% perfume oil, offering long-lasting fragrance.
Eau de Parfum, a lighter version, has 15-20% oil concentration, delivering decent longevity.
Eau de Toilette, a popular choice, contains 5-15% oil for a softer scent.
Eau de Cologne, typically masculine, has a 2-4% oil concentration, offering a light, fresh fragrance.
Lastly, Eau Fraiche, similar to Cologne, contains about 1-3% oil, but lasts for less time, typically ideal for a subtle scent.
What Smells Do You Like?
The best place to start when it comes to finding a new perfume is to consider what scents you already love. Do you like that lemongrass smell in your washing up liquid? Or perhaps you love the jasmine scent that permeates your local Thai spa? Or, does the smell of Moroccan roses still linger from a recent trip to Marrakesh? Maybe the smell of freshly cut grass or the minerally aroma of sea air does it for you?
It’s important to consider the notes when finding a new perfume. As explained by Imperial College London, “perfumes are described in terms of ‘notes’, which can be single odour ingredients, such as vanilla, musk or jasmine, as well as more generic smells like ‘floral notes’”.
Once you’ve noted down the notes that you particularly like, the New York Times recommends the site fragrantica.com – an encyclopaedic database of scents – as here you can search for perfumes with notes that you know you like.
Experiment With Fragrance Layering
Consider spraying two or more perfumes over each other to create something totally new. Layering two fragrances that you love is a good place to start. You can create a wholly unique signature scent by combining two or more of your existing products. It’s all about experimentation here, but it is a good idea to start with heavier fragrances first.
Hit The High Street
Finding an affordable fragrance isn’t always easy. However, it is easy to find a high street fragrance that smells good. Yep, high street perfumes are no longer like those sickly sweet body sprays of the 90’s which would induce a headache the moment you sprayed them on. Today they are a more refined, elegant affair and smell *seriously* expensive. all without the serious price tag.
Consider A Doppelganger Fragrance
Is there already a designer fragrance that you like, but you can’t afford the price tag?
Somehow lots of designer perfumes have sailed above the £100-a-bottle threshold, a figure that many of us mere mortals can’t justify spending. Enter doppelganger fragrances…
For dupes of designer fragrances, simply head to the olfactory department of some highstreet stores. As reported by the Independent, “should you be looking for a cheaper alternative to your favourite designer fug, TikTok has sniffed out a whole host of M&S own-brand eau de toilette fragrances that rival a range of cult classics”.
Yep, M&S’s own-brand fragrances have drawn comparisons to YSL’s black opium, Chanel no5, Marc Jacobs’s Daisy and Paco Rabanne’s Lady Million Scent, to name but a few.
Smell Better For Less
You’ll be pleased to hear that, according to scientists, spending money on expensive perfume is a waste of money as the most attractive scents are cheap and simple. Indeed, a study by the Imperial College London of more than 10,000 fragrances discovered that people prefer simple scents like jasmine musk, bergamot, sandalwood and amber, as opposed to pricier alternatives on the market.
Try It On
The most crucial part of finding your new favourite fragrance is trying it on. Perfumes interact with your individual body chemistry, altering its scent. Your skin’s pH, temperature, and natural odours can influence a perfume’s notes.
Hence, trying it on allows you to experience its unique transformation and full range of notes on your skin, providing a real understanding of its scent on you. Spray perfume on your wrist, wait for it to dry, then smell. This lets the fragrance warm up and mix with your body’s natural oils.
Free Samples
You’ve probably used tester strips at your local fragrance store or duty-free before. Sadly, you’ll rarely be able to walk away with reusable perfume samples if you’re making an in-store purchase.
If you’re keen to bring some variety to your fragrance collection, why not stock up on a few samples from an online retailer instead? Admittedly, most retailers will have a limit on how many samples a single customer can order, but it’s a great way of mixing things up if you’re not ready to splash out on a full-sized bottle of scent.
Discount Codes
Once you’ve found the perfume you like, it’s all about getting the best price. Rather than relying solely on seasonal sales, you can take advantage of discount codes throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to restock your favourite perfume or try something different from an iconic brand like Diptyque, DIOR or D&G, discount codes can net you a sizable saving. Some codes are reserved for first-time customers, while others are introduced as promotional events. It’s always a good idea to check out the promo page of an online retailer before heading to the virtual checkout.
Don’t Miss Out On Sales Events
If you’re buying online, you’ll almost always come across a sale event. That being said, don’t automatically assume you’re getting a great deal. Valentine’s Day and the Christmas period are key retail windows for the fragrance sector. While these sale prices might be competitive compared to what other retailers are charging, you might still be paying close to the original RRP. Instead, look for end-of-season sale events for the biggest savings.
Swap Out An Unloved Scent
Do you have an entire drawer dedicated to bottles of perfume that have only ever been used once? Whether they’re an unloved gift or an ill-judged purchase, there’s no reason why they should be gathering dust. If you’re looking to make some quick cash, you can sell them online. Alternatively, think about swapping your unwanted fragrances with a friend. Chances are, they’ll be in exactly the same boat. If they’ve got their eye on something you’re not using and you’re crazy about a scent they’ve fallen out of love with, everyone’s a winner!
Oh, take us back to the summer; lazy, hazy days spent laying on dry ground, the mercury breaking records, our footballers almost doing the same, and our hair; long, luscious and manageable. Fast forward a few months and the unpredictable winter weather combined with dry indoor air has wreaked havoc on our locks, with strong and healthy hair a distance, seasonally-defined memory.
How To Protect Your Hair From Damage This Winter
To prevent the frizzed, end-split look, it’s important to bear a few simple routine tweaks in mind. Here are the golden rules for protecting your hair from damage this winter.
Hydration Stations
A beauty benefactor that’s never truer than in winter; ample hydration. You should drink a lot of water to stave off the dreaded dry hair (and skin, too). Just as plants need water to grow and thrive, so does your hair.
Getting enough hydration into your body will eventually reach your hair, leaving you will thick, confidently growing locks. Dandruff will also be reduced due to stimulation of the surface of your head, preventing a flaky, dry scalp. Drinking enough water, it seems, is key to hair health.
Warm, Not Hot
A mantra to remember with regard to both shower and house temperature. Firstly, if your shower head is running piping hot, the water will shock your scalp, possibly even burning it. And no one wants that.
It’ll also dry out your scalp and hair, making it brittle and damaging the roots. In some cases, it’s also speculated that really hot showers may eventually lead to hair loss – further clarifying the need to turn the dial down a notch or two.
Wash Your Hair Less
During summer, you get used to washing your hair frequently and often let it dry freely. However, it would help if you changed your hair-washing routine during the cold season because using too much shampoo can strip it of its natural oils and leave it more vulnerable to cold temperatures. While there is no magic formula everyone can use to wash their hair to prevent damage and breakage, washing it less during winter is advisable. Suppose you have a dry scalp; washing it too often during winter can worsen your condition. Swapping the traditional products for gentler versions is recommended to ensure the ingredients aren’t too harsh on your scalp.
If you have greasy hair, try integrating dry shampoo into your hair care routine to keep your locks looking fresh for longer.
Review Your Hair Care Routine
The essential part of your winter hair routine is moisturising it properly. When you buy new products, look for those that boost hydration and moisture in your hair. You use a hydrating shampoo that moisturizes your scalp and hair and complete the treatment with a nourishing mask or conditioner. In case you suffer from redness or flaking, it’s best to use products designed for a sensitive scalp.
Additionally, if you have damaged or excessively dry hair, you can add damaged hair products to your routine. Moisture and hydration are paramount to keeping your hair healthy during winter. You can experiment with different products until you find your magic combination.
Nourish From Within
Just as hydration plays a vital role in hair health, so too does proper nutrition. While a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is ideal, our hectic modern lifestyles can make it challenging to consistently meet our nutritional needs through food alone. This is where hair capsules can prove particularly beneficial.
These specialised supplements offer a convenient way to ensure your hair receives essential nutrients, combining vital minerals, vitamins, and amino acids that support healthy growth and strength. Look for formulations containing biotin, zinc, and vitamins D and B12—all crucial elements for maintaining lustrous locks during the demanding winter months.
Whilst supplements shouldn’t replace a wholesome diet, they can complement your nutrition strategy, especially when seasonal changes and central heating begin to take their toll on your tresses. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regime, as they can advise on the most suitable options for your specific needs.
Choose The Right Hat
Yep, we know the winter hat is fashion as well as functional, but it’s important you choose one which will both protect you from the elements and not do unwelcome damage to your hair. A hat which is too tight, or made from material which doesn’t let your scalp breathe, is going to be detrimental to hair health, regardless of the snow, wind, and rain which it blocks.
Don’t Overstyle
The same rules apply to your appliances. When possible, try to let your hair dry naturally after washing as cutting down on heating appliances like hairdryers and straighteners will keep your hair moisturised and soft. Constantly moving from the cold outdoors to the warm, dry indoors in winter can affect the hair so reducing your hair’s exposure to further extreme changes in temperature will keep your hair healthy.
Stay Inside While Your Hair Dries
We all know the story. You’ve had your shower and you’re in a rush to hit the town; there’s not enough time to wait for your hair to dry, and you’ve been advised (above perhaps?) not to overdo the appliances during the winter months. The only solution, then, is to step out with hair still wet.
Big mistake. Firstly, you’ll catch a cold you crazy thing. But more importantly, going outside with wet hair can do serious damage to your hair; when wet hair meets freezing cold conditions, it becomes less supple and much more vulnerable to breakage.
Wear Protective Headwear While You Sleep
In the battle against winter hair damage, don’t underestimate the power of protective headwear while you sleep. Friction from tossing and turning can lead to breakage and dryness, but wearing a silk or satin bonnet or scarf can significantly reduce this damage.
Indeed, it’s best to opt for materials that reduce friction to prevent damage and breakage, such as ankara fabric instead of cotton, with the latter prone to stripping your hair of moisture. These smooth fabrics help to maintain your hair’s natural oils and keep your style in place, leading to less morning maintenance. For those who prefer not to wear something on their heads, a silk or satin pillowcase can serve as a friction-reducing alternative, ensuring your hair glides smoothly as you sleep.
Customised caps are also available for those with unique hair types, such as long locks or bountiful curls, offering tailored protection and comfort. Beyond just reducing friction, these protective coverings are instrumental in moisture retention, locking in both your hair’s natural hydration and any applied products.
This simple nighttime habit can make a substantial difference in maintaining healthy hair throughout the harsh winter months, making it a worthy addition to your hair care regimen.
Use A Quality Brush
All the above recommendations are useful during winter, but you should add another tip to your list to keep your hair healthy during all seasons. You should invest in a quality brush to maintain the health and appearance of your hair. Buy a gentle one that improves your tangles and prevents breakage. A great option is the brush made of boar bristle because it smooths your hair and distributes the natural oils evenly. Don’t use brushes with plastic brittles because they are harsh on your hair and can cause permanent damage.
The Bottom Line
As the winter season unfolds, it’s clear that our hair requires extra attention and care to combat the harsh elements and indoor heating that can lead to damage. Embracing the golden rules of winter hair care is not just about maintaining the health and integrity of your hair; it’s about adapting to the seasonal changes with smart, proactive steps.
Remember, the key to thriving through the winter months is to minimise exposure to extreme conditions, both natural and artificial. This means less heat styling, more gentle brushing, and protecting your hair from the cold and friction.
By following these principles, you’re not just protecting your hair; you’re also investing in your overall well-being and confidence. Your hair is your crown, and with the right care, it can remain lustrous and strong all year round.
Let us speak as frankly as is possible with a mouth full of custard – anyone who claims that they’re “not really a dessert person” is either fibbing, a diabetic orclearly hasn’t ventured deep enough into London’s extraordinary pudding scene. From mind-bending ice cream creations to pastries that would make a Parisian develop an interiority complex, London’s pudding game is stronger than ever.
Indeed, the capital’s finest kitchens are right now turning out the kind of desserts that don’t just end a meal – they steal the show entirely. Here’s our roundup of the capital’s most iconic sweet treats, the ones that have achieved cult status and sparked countless Instagram posts and TikTok videos, but still actually, genuinely work. Trust us, these are the best desserts in London worth saving room for.
Tahini Tart at Mangal II
Ideal for a modern Middle Eastern masterpiece…
Some desserts achieve such cult status that their removal from the menu causes uproar. Or, at least, a clown on table 5 kicking off…
Such was the case with Mangal II’s tahini tart. Invented by chef Sertaç Dirik, who is hailed as one of the most talented young chefs in the capital, Mangal II’s tahini tart is one of the best desserts you’ll likely have the pleasure of eating.
Dancing right on the edge of savoury, the tahini filling is a bold flavour with a velvety sesame caramel filling that’s almost (but not quite) salty. It’s nutty and slightly bitter, with an earthy flavour but still is very much a dessert, indulgence and treat. A gorgeous cherry stone-infused cream, piped in Mangal II’s signature zig-zag aesthetic, brings an unexpected almond-like note to the proceedings.
When it briefly disappeared from the menu, the restaurant was flooded with pleas for its return. Now it’s back and arguably better than ever, with a blackberry glaze that cuts through the sweetness, proving that, sometimes, peer pressure is actually a force for good.
Whether you had a warm cup of Horlicks before bed or a mug of malty Milo in the morning as a kid, this dessert is going to hit you with a sweet dose of nostalgia.
Inspired by the deep-fried yin si juan – a type of bread roll found in fried chicken stalls across Taiwan – BAO have taken their legendary steamed buns, and given them a quick dip in the fryer until golden and crispy. The bun is then halved and stuffed with a perfectly spherical scoop of heavenly Horlicks ice cream.
Already cloud-like in its natural state, when fried the bun develops a satisfying chewy crunch while maintaining its signature fluffiness on the inside – think a freshly fried doughnut but with a distinctive BAO chewiness.
The Horlicks ice cream itself is toasty, malty and creamy, with hints of vanilla bringing that sense of luxury you want from a dessert. We love the way it slowly melts into the warm bun, creating an ever-changing textural experience (and one that gets damn messy by the end). The temperature contrast between the warm, crispy exterior and the cold, creamy centre makes each bite different from the last. There’s no elegant way to eat this. Just embrace the mess and enjoy the sweet ride.
Address: Multiple locations across London (Soho, Fitzrovia, Borough, Shoreditch, Battersea)
Madeleines at St. John
Ideal for experiencing French simplicity at its finest…
Sometimes the simplest things are the hardest to master. The madeleines at St. John prove that when something simple is done absolutely right, it needs no embellishment.
These plump little cakes arrive still warm from the oven, light as air and buttery as heaven. Yep, each batch is baked to order, ensuring you get them at their perfect peak – the golden shells still radiating warmth, with that characteristic scalloped pattern crisp and defined. You’ll have to wait fifteen minutes for the pleasure, but it’s worth it.
The recipe appears in the St. John cookbook, but achieving that exact texture – the crisp exterior, the cloud-like interior, the perfect rise, the steam rising when broken open – remains a challenge that demonstrates why sometimes it’s best to leave things to the professionals.
Ideal tip: Order the madeleines for the journey home and indulge in another masterful dessert at St John’s while actually in situ, whether a deeply warming ginger loaf with butterscotch sauce and malt ice cream, or a classic crème caramel.
Ideal for a Persian twist on the classic ice cream sandwich…
Sometimes two wonderful things come together and create something even better than the sum of their parts. Berenjak’s baklava ice cream sandwich is exactly that – a marriage of flaky filo baklava pastry and smooth vanilla ice cream that feels like it was always meant to be.
This isn’t just any old ice cream sandwich. Layers of delicate filo pastry, appropriately honey-soaked, cradle a generous scoop of ice cream made by Persian ice-cream pros Darlish, while pistachios and hazelnuts add crunch and a sense of knowing sophistication.
It’s a toothsome dessert, indeed; the baklava boasts a delightful crunch and a satisfying chewiness, while the ice cream features has just a hint of saltiness that perfectly balances the overall sweetness. And it is certainly sweet, there’s no denying…
It’s street food elevated to art form, and at £7, it’s one of the best value sugar highs in Soho. At the time of writing, it’s not on the menu at Beranjak, but you can get your Baklava Ice Cream Sandwich fix at Darlish (aka the Home of the Baklava Ice Cream Sandwich) as they supply the restaurant with this particular deep cut. They have various locations, including Spitalfields, Harpenden and St Albans. Word of warning, come winter their locations shut down. It’s a long wait ’till spring for all the dessert disciples out there. Best stock up now.
Some dishes become icons for a reason. The River Cafe’s lemon tart has been stopping conversations mid-sentence for years, and one bite tells you why. This isn’t your standard citrus tart – it’s the best one you’ll likely ever eat and for that reason, has been on the menu since the restaurant’s early days.
Most Lemon tarts aren’t zesty enough for our taste, but this one is. What distinguishes this version is its intensity and purity of flavour. Made with proper Sorrento lemons – a little different from the increasingly ubiquitous Amalfi varieties and prized for their intense fragrance – the filling captures the very essence of the fruit and is unequivocally, unapologetically lemony. Of course, in a dish so sparse and forward, the details need to be perfect: the custard is beautifully golden from careful egg sourcing and set perfectly to a gentle – rather than flamboyant – wobble, clinging to the fork like any properly made curd should.
We must also talk about the pastry. The case is a technical feat in itself – rolled whisper-thin and baked to a deep golden colour that brings out the nutty notes of the butter, it provides the perfect crisp contrast to the silky filling, while adding its own caramel notes to the overall flavour profile.
Given a kiss of flame from the wood roasted oven for that signature caramelised top, it’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and forget where you are for a moment; one bite and you’ll be transported to a sun-drenched afternoon on the Amalfi Coast. Served with creme fraiche, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It’s enigmatic.
The River Cafe’s lemon tart stands as a benchmark against which all others are measured, demonstrating how precision and quality of ingredients can elevate a classic into an icon. On that note, if you can’t make it out to Richmond, Theo Randall, a River Cafe alumni, serves up a stellar version at the InterContinental come Amalfi lemon season.
Ideal tip: You can buy this iconic lemon tart at River Cafe’s shop to take it away or for delivery within London. We recommend picking it up and eating it alongside the banks of the Thames, ideally with a chilled bottle of sweet late-harvest Riesling plucked from a cool bag. Yes, you’ll pay handsomely for the pleasure (for a small tart that serves 5, the cost is £35) but some experiences are worth every penny.
Ideal for a chocolate experience that will make you giddy with delight…
When a chocolate mousse quickly achieves cult status in a city full of elaborate desserts, you know it must be something special. The Parakeet’s version has done exactly that, becoming London’s most talked-about chocolate mousse through its perfect execution and curiously domestic serving style.
Served with delightful theatrical flair at the table, scooped out from the depths of a chamber pot (yes, our minds went there too) this deeply flavoured mousse is then placed atop a bed of nutty bran and oat crumb already in front of you.
It’s impossibly light – we’re talking millions of tiny bubbles creating the kind of airy texture that makes you wonder if it might float right off the plate. A good chocolate mousse is measured by the dark chocolate it uses, and they must use the good stuff here, lending a sophisticated bitterness that prevents the dessert from becoming too sweet. Each spoonful dissolves on your tongue, delivering intense chocolate flavour without any hint of heaviness. Moreover, it makes it dangerously easy to polish off the whole thing while swearing you’ll “just have one more bite”.
If you’ve never frantically phoned ahead to reserve a slice of dessert before, the brown butter and honey tart at The Marksman might well be your first time. This unassuming-looking creation has become so legendary that regulars know to book their slice before they’ve even entered the restaurant.
What makes it so special? It’s all about that perfect wobble – think moo deng captured in custard form or, as Jay Rayner put it, “the wobble and softness of a newborn’s thigh.”
It’s not just the custardy part that defines this famous tart, though. The pastry is the perfect penny-thickness, and baked to that precise moment where golden turns to mahogany, adding just a whisper of bitterness to balance the sweet. Inside, the filling is a marvel of kitchen alchemy; nut brown butter and borage honey transformed into something that makes time stand still. Only when the point of the tart starts to wobble does it snap you back into the room.
While it might look like just a tart, the first spoonful reveals caramelised notes mingling with delicate honey sweetness. A dollop of crème fraîche cuts through the richness perfectly and sends it on its way.
Salted Palm Sugar Ice Cream at Som Saa*temporarily closed*
Ideal for a London take on distinctively Thai dessert flavours…
If you’ve been to Thailand, no doubt you’ve seen roasted or deep fried bananas being served at the side of the road, often with an overly sweet for some (probably those fibbers we mentioned in our introduction) syrup drizzled all over.
Well, the crack team at Som Saa have taken this idea and run with it to create their signature salted palm sugar ice cream and banana dessert. And, although it’s very much a novel dish rather than one that’s eaten in Thailand (most of their menu is textbook Thai), we’re endlessly thankful that they went a little off piste with this one.
The ice cream is made especially for Som Saa by the churning experts Hackney Gelato, using top shelf imported palm sugar. If you think salted caramel ice cream is good (and it is), wait until you try Som Saa’s salted palm sugar version.
The palm sugar gives it a deep, butterscotch sweetness that’s more complex than your standard caramel, while the salt is calibrated just right to make the flavours pop. But what really takes it to the next level is how they serve it – with warm banana that’s been grilled over charcoal and brushed with turmeric caramel, then finished with a scattering of toasted sesame seeds. It’s a brilliant rendition of Thai dessert flavours reimagined for London palates.
The genius of this iconic London dessert lies in how the warm, aromatic banana provides the perfect temperature contrast to the cool, creamy ice cream, while the turmeric adds an unexpected earthy note that ties everything together. It’s a soothing way to end a spicy meal, that’s for sure. This one has been on the menu since their days at Climpson’s Arch, and it’s not going anywhere – the regulars simply wouldn’t allow it.
*Unfortunately, after a fire at the restaurant in early May, Som Saa is currently (but temporarily) closed. We’ll update this piece when more news is announced of the reopening date.*
Ideal for when classic French indulgence goes the extra mile…
In a city full of elaborate desserts, Quo Vadis’ profiteroles, or ‘les qv profiteroles au chocolat’ as they’re officially known, prove that sometimes classics are classics for a reason. They might not be reinventing the wheel here, but boy, are they making it roll smoothly.
Each choux bun is textbook perfect crisp and light on the outside, with a delicate shell that yields to reveal a centre filled with both vanilla ice cream and confectioner’s custard. Yes, both.
The crowning glory is the warm chocolate sauce which creates a perfect temperature contrast. The type of chocolate is key here – it’s dark and sophisticated, cutting through the sweetness of the filling while adding glossy drama to the plate. These profiteroles manage to provoke both childlike wonder and grown-up appreciation in those in of them – no small feat for what’s essentially a fancy cream puff. Or, profiteroles with a prize inside, as we unofficially like to call them.
The chef behind this one is the brilliant Jeremy Lee, one of London’s true pudding kings, and a huge fan of this one (even if he does say so himself). Indeed, if Lee had to pick one pudding on his menu as his favourite, it would be this one – and that’s straight out of the horse’s mouth.
Inside tip: When winter rolls around, keep an eye out for their sticky toffee pudding. Made with Agen prunes and Medjool dates, it’s another classic that’ll make you grateful for cold weather.
Ideal for a Filipino-French fusion that tastes as good as it looks…
If you’ve been anywhere near Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen this purple beauty pop up on your feed, but don’t let its lurid hue fool you. Unlike some style-over-substance social media star dishes, Donia’s ube choux is some serious pastry work masquerading as social media bait. Indeed, there’s a reason why it’s up there with the best dessert in London
Think of it as a French pastry that’s taken a delicious detour through the Philippines. The choux pastry shell is everything it should be – crisp and crackly thanks to a hazelnut craquelin crust, but it’s what’s inside that makes it special. The lilac-colored ube cream (made from purple sweet potato) is paired with cloudy coconut chantilly and ube praliné, creating something that tastes as good as it looks. The result is a masterpiece of texture and flavour – crisp shell giving way to creamy filling, with the unique, nutty sweetness of ube complemented perfectly by tropical coconut notes.
It’s a clever nod to Mamasons’ famous ube ice cream sandwiches while being entirely its own thing, and we love it.
Ideal for French toast taken to heavenly new heights…
If you think you know French toast, Jun Tanaka’s pain perdu at The Ninth will make you think again. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you realise why the French called it ‘lost bread’, because anything else you’ve tried before this will feel precisely that: lost and forgotten.
The magic lies in the preparation, which is nothing short of culinary alchemy. Premium brioche is soaked for a full day in a rich crème anglaise bath before being transformed into something that straddles the line between pudding and heaven. The exterior achieves that holy grail of dessert textures – a glass-like caramelised crust that gives way to an interior so cloud-like and buttery it defies physics.
But it’s the finishing touches that elevate this from merely excellent to unforgettable. A final sprinkle of sugar gets the blowtorch treatment, creating a crunchy, caramelised top that would make a crème brûlée jealous. Served alongside house-made tonka bean ice cream and a scattering of buttery crumble, it’s the kind of dessert that causes spoons to joust across the table.
While technically a refined French classic, there’s something disarmingly familiar about this dish. It taps into that primal memory of weekend breakfasts and treaty moments, but Tanaka has somehow managed to preserve that comfort while crafting something entirely extraordinary. What began centuries ago as a thrifty way to rescue stale bread has evolved into something truly magnificent in his hands.
Ideal forburning your mouth off with salted egg lava and not even regretting it…
This whimsical creation is the very definition of ‘save the best for last’. Pale and pristine, with a gentle blush, each dessert bun at 2 Michelin-starred A Wong arrives looking remarkably like a miniature white peach, complete with a delicate leaf garnish – a playful bit of culinary theatre that’s typical of Andrew Wong’s creative genius. But the real drama unfolds when you break into it.
These heavenly parcels harbour gooey souls of custard – golden and voluptuous with salted duck yolk. The molten centre is quite possibly the most luxurious filling you’ll ever encounter. It’s a masterclass in contrasts: salty meets sweet, liquid meets solid, and tradition meets innovation. Fair warning: approach with caution – this isn’t called a ‘lava bun’ for nothing, as many an enthusiastic diner has discovered.
Word to the wise: These beauties tend to sell out, so mentioning you’d like one when you book isn’t just advisable – it’s essential.
From perfectly executed classics to imaginative new creations, these sweet sensations have earned their place in London’s culinary hall of fame. They are London’s best desserts.
Whether you’re a dedicated dessert hunter or just someone with a sweet tooth and a sense of adventure, these puddings are worth crossing town – or even country – for.
Let’s face it: flying does our skin no favours. At cruising altitude, the atmospheric pressure in an aircraft cabin hovers around 6,000-8,000 feet above sea level, creating an environment that can send even the most well-behaved complexion into a tailspin.
With humidity levels often dropping below 20% (compared to the comfortable 40-70% we’re used to on terra firma), our skin faces a perfect storm of dehydration, increased oil production, and general sensitivity. Add recycled air and pressure changes into the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for complexion chaos.
But fear not – with the right approach, you can step off your flight looking refreshed rather than frazzled. Here’s how.
Pre-Flight Preparation: Setting Your Skin Up For Success
The secret to emerging from a long-haul flight with glowing skin lies in thorough preparation. Before you even think about boarding, your skin needs to be properly cleansed and fortified against the challenges ahead. Skip the heavy foundations and powder-based products that can trap bacteria and make dehydration worse – instead, focus on creating a clean, protected canvas.
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanse using micellar water. Look for ones enriched with soothing botanical extracts like chamomile or cucumber – Bioderma Sensibio H2O and La Roche-Posay’s Micellar Water Ultra are fantastic options that won’t strip your skin. Apply your cleanser with soft, biodegradable cotton pads to keep things eco-friendly.
While your skin’s still slightly damp, layer on a hydrating essence. The clever ones contain beta-glucan or polyglutamic acid, which help prep your skin for the environmental stress ahead. Think of it as giving your skin a drink before heading into a drought – you want to build up those moisture reserves with light, consecutive layers rather than slathering on heavy products that might leave you feeling clogged and uncomfortable during the flight.
During The Flight: Your In-Air Skincare Strategy
The First Hour
The first hour of your flight is crucial for establishing a protective shield against that harsh cabin environment. Think of your barrier cream as your skin’s personal bodyguard – you want one packed with ceramides, squalane, peptides, and niacinamide (Vitamin B3). These ingredients work together to create a protective veil that locks in moisture while still letting your skin breathe.
Mid-Flight Maintenance
As your journey progresses, keeping skin hydrated becomes your main mission. Forget basic thermal or rose water sprays – invest in sophisticated hydration mists that actually do something. The best ones combine different sizes of hyaluronic acid molecules with supporting acts like glycerin, beta-glucan, and panthenol. Give yourself a spritz every few hours, but here’s the catch: in super-low humidity, you need to seal that moisture in with a moisturising layer, or it might actually make things worse. Be sure to moisturise your lips too.
Approaching Landing
Now, about those sheet masks – they’ve become as common as neck pillows on long-haul flights these days. If you’re going to join the sheet mask club (and why wouldn’t you?), opt for bio-cellulose or hydrogel masks rather than basic cotton ones. They hug your face better and deliver their goodness more effectively. .
Look for ingredients like beta-glucan, different weights of sodium hyaluronate, Centella asiatica, niacinamide, and adenosine. Just remember to whip it off before it starts drying out – usually around the 20-minute mark – or it’ll start doing more harm than good.
If you’re prone to oily skin, don’t just reach for the blotting papers. Instead, pack a niacinamide-based serum to keep oil production in check, or try those clever volcanic clay-infused blotting sheets that treat while they absorb. A green tea mist can work wonders for balancing things out too.
For puffy eyes (let’s be honest, who doesn’t get them on long flights?), pack an enriched eye serum and some cooling gel patches. Indeed, long flights, lack of movement, and high-sodium snacks can lead to fluid retention and puffiness around the eyes. To tackle those dark circles that have been exacerbated by lack of sleep and dehydration, look for an under-eye mask that contains ingredients like caffeine and cucumber extract to help reduce swelling and puffiness.
Or, consider one that contains brightening agents such as vitamin C or niacinamide, as these can help to lighten dark areas and give you a more awake appearance. Pop them in your carry-on’s ice pack to make them extra refreshing. A bit of gentle massage around the eye area can help too – just be careful not to tug at the delicate skin.
Smart Packing Solutions
Getting your skincare from A to B without leaks or security hassles takes some planning. The obvious choice is a clear cosmetic case as they can make airport security a breeze. However, they tend to get a bit mucky as dirt, smudges, and residue are much more noticeable on translucent material.
Savvy travellers will of course use sustainable cosmetic bags crafted from materials like organic canvas and Fairtrade cotton, as they offer both environmental consciousness and practical functionality. Remember to put your items in a plastic bag and then transfer them to your cosmetic bag after you’ve passed security.
Or, if you’re travelling heavy, consider a bag with thoughtfully designed compartments that keep everything in its place, plus water-resistant linings and clear panels that make security checks a breeze.
Pack travel-sized products in airless pumps where possible, and keep any tools like facial rollers in medical-grade pouches to keep them clean. A neat trick is to pre-soak some cotton pads with your favourite essences or toners and seal them in small reusable bags – much easier than juggling bottles in the tiny airplane loo!
Post-Flight Recovery
Within an hour of landing, give your skin a proper reset. Start with a thorough double cleanse to get rid of all that recycled air grime, then layer on a balancing toner, vitamin C serum for brightness, and a ceramide-rich moisturiser. If it’s daytime, don’t skip the broad-spectrum SPF 50 – your skin might be more sensitive than usual after the flight.
The Bottom Line
A solid in-flight skincare routine isn’t just about vanity – it’s about protecting your skin’s barrier function and microbiome during what’s essentially a few hours in a very weird environment. Understanding what’s happening to your skin at altitude helps you prepare better and maintain its health, no matter how many time zones you cross.
Remember that everyone’s skin reacts differently to flying, so what works perfectly on one flight might need tweaking on another. Pay attention to how your skin feels and adjust accordingly. And perhaps most importantly, don’t forget to drink plenty of water – beautiful skin starts from within, even at 35,000 feet.
Often playfully dubbed the ‘city of roundabouts’, Milton Keynes might not be the first destination that springs to mind for a day out. However, this thoughtfully planned new town, with its striking modernist architecture, vast green spaces, and wealth of attractions, offers visitors a surprisingly diverse range of experiences. Here’s how to spend the perfect day in this unique Buckinghamshire destination.
A Morning Coffee
Begin your Milton Keynes adventure at the independent Bogota Coffee Company in The Hub. Housed within the city’s gleaming business district, this local favourite serves up expertly crafted speciality coffee alongside proper simple, affordable breakfast fare. The cheese and ham toastie here is particularly noteworthy (and an aboslute snip at under £3), and the flat whites rival anything you’d find in London’s trendiest coffee shops.
Once well and truly caffeinated, take a short stroll to Campbell Park, one of Milton Keynes’ crown jewels. This vast green space perfectly embodies the city’s founding principle of being a ‘forest city’, where nature and urban development exist in perfect harmony. The park’s rolling hills offer splendid views across the town, and the contemporary light pyramid sculpture provides an excellent photo opportunity against the morning sky.
Milton Keynes’ Cultural Quarter
As the day warms up, head to the heart of Milton Keynes’ cultural quarter. The MK Gallery, following its dramatic transformation, has become one of the region’s most important artistic hubs. Its striking stainless-steel exterior is a masterclass in contemporary architecture, while inside, the rotating exhibitions showcase everything from international contemporary art to local talent.
Lunch At Dipna Anand
For lunch, Eat Out MK, who provide curated eating out lists, recommend Dipna Anand Kitchen & Bar at 12th Street. This vibrant restaurant brings the authentic flavours of Punjab and South India to Milton Keynes with a modern twist. Keep things light with the vegetarian thali (£15.95) – a complete platter that showcases the kitchen’s expertise.
The thali arrives as a beautifully arranged feast: a silky paneer mattar curry sits alongside a decadently creamy dal makhani, while a verdant pool of saag aloo begs to be scooped up with fresh, buttered naan. Accompanied by aromatic pulao rice, crisp poppadoms, tangy chutneys, and their secretly-spiced raita, it’s a masterclass in thoughtful Indian cooking. The warm, attentive service and contemporary setting make this the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch break.
Post-lunch, it’s time for something altogether more exhilarating. Snozone at Xscape offers a truly unique experience – real snow skiing in the heart of Buckinghamshire. Even if you’re not hitting the slopes, the spectacle of indoor skiing is worth witnessing, and the après-ski atmosphere in the viewing gallery is infectious.
For those preferring to keep their feet firmly on the ground, the adjacent shopping district provides retail therapy at its finest. Centre:mk, with its Grade II listed shopping building, is a remarkable piece of modernist architecture that houses over 200 shops. The original design elements and soaring space-frame roof make it as much an architectural attraction as a shopping destination.
A Waterside Stroll
As day turns to evening, take a peaceful walk along the Grand Union Canal at Campbell Wharf. The recently developed marina area offers a delightful mix of narrowboats, waterside walks, and modern architecture. Time your visit right, and you’ll catch a spectacular sunset over the water.
Dinner In Style At Paris House
For dinner, book a table at Paris House, situated a 20 minute drive from the city centre in Woburn Park. This Michelin-recommended restaurant, housed in a Tudor-style building with a fascinating history (it was actually transported piece by piece from Paris in 1878), offers an exceptional fine dining experience. The tasting menu, featuring seasonal British ingredients with French flair, provides a fitting finale to your Milton Keynes adventure.
The Bottom Line
Milton Keynes defies expectations at every turn. Behind the concrete cows and roundabouts lies a city that masterfully balances urban innovation with natural beauty, cultural significance with modern entertainment. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, foodie, adventure seeker, or simply in need of a different kind of day out, Milton Keynes delivers with its own unique charm.
While it might not have the historical grandeur of Oxford or the royal connections of Windsor, Milton Keynes offers something entirely different: a vision of modern British city living that’s both ambitious and accessible. It’s a place where you can ski in the morning, view international art at lunch, and dine in pastoral splendour in the evening – how many other towns can offer that?
The first proper cold snap of winter is nearly upon us, with sub zero temperatures apparently on the way. As we bundle up in extra layers and crank up the heating, it’s worth remembering that these challenging conditions affect some members of our community far more profoundly than others. For our elderly loved ones in particular, winter brings a unique set of challenges that extend far beyond just staying warm.
Perhaps you’ve noticed your previously independent mother becoming more hesitant about venturing to the shops in icy conditions. Maybe your father, once the family chef, now seems to subsist mainly on tea and toast. These changes aren’t merely matters of preference – they’re often signs of how winter can create a perfect storm of circumstances that make maintaining good nutrition increasingly difficult for older people.
Winter presents multiple barriers to good nutrition for older adults. The cold weather can make joints stiffer and more painful, affecting dexterity and cooking abilities. Darker days can impact mood and appetite. Even the simple act of carrying shopping bags becomes more hazardous when pavements are slippery. Add to this the current cost of living pressures, with many elderly people having to make difficult choices between heating and eating, and we begin to see why winter nutrition requires our particular attention.
The Hidden Challenges Of Winter Eating
Understanding why nutrition can become compromised as we age is crucial to providing effective support. It’s not simply a matter of choice or habit – physical changes play a significant role. Our sense of taste and smell naturally diminishes with age, making once-favourite dishes seem bland and unappetising. Dental issues or ill-fitting dentures can transform previously enjoyable meals into uncomfortable experiences. Even the energy required to prepare a simple meal can feel overwhelming when joints are stiff from the cold.
Building Better Winter Nutrition
The good news is that with thoughtful planning and the right support, we can help our elderly loved ones not just maintain but truly enjoy their winter nutrition. The key lies in understanding the essential nutrients that become particularly important during colder months and finding creative, practical ways to incorporate them into daily meals.
Protein becomes increasingly crucial as we age, playing a vital role in maintaining muscle mass, supporting immune function, and aiding recovery from illness. Rather than serving one large portion of meat at dinner – which might seem overwhelming – try incorporating smaller protein servings throughout the day. A softly scrambled egg at breakfast, a warming bowl of lentil soup at lunch, and perhaps some flaked fish at dinner can help meet daily requirements more comfortably.
Vitamin D deserves special attention during winter months. With reduced sunlight exposure and older skin being less efficient at producing this vital nutrient, many elderly people become deficient. While supplements should be discussed with a GP, we can boost intake through diet – incorporating oil-rich fish, egg yolks, and fortified cereals into weekly meal plans.
Making Mealtimes Manageable
The physical act of preparing food often presents the first hurdle to good nutrition. Rather than completely taking over kitchen duties – which can feel disempowering – focus on enabling independence where possible. Simple changes can transform the cooking experience: better lighting over work surfaces, easy-grip utensils, and a perching stool for rest breaks during preparation.
For those struggling with swallowing difficulties or dental issues, texture modified food products have evolved significantly. Modern options maintain both nutritional value and dignity, looking and tasting far more appealing than traditional purées. Many everyday dishes can also be adapted at home with careful preparation and the right equipment.
The Joy Of Seasonal Cooking
Winter brings wonderful opportunities for nutritious, warming meals that comfort both body and soul. A slow-cooked stew, gently bubbling away and filling the house with inviting aromas, offers not just nutrition but a sense of home and wellbeing. Better still, these dishes often improve with reheating, making them perfect for batch cooking and freezing in individual portions.
Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of elderly nutrition is the social element. Many older people find their appetite diminishes significantly when eating alone – a challenge that often intensifies during winter months when getting out becomes harder. While we can’t always be there in person, technology offers new ways to share mealtimes. A regular video call during dinner might feel strange at first, but it can transform a solitary sandwich into a more engaging dining experience.
Practical Support Strategies
Keeping the kitchen well-stocked during winter requires strategic planning. Online shopping, once set up with a saved favourites list, can be a game-changer for those who find physical shopping challenging. A well-stocked store cupboard provides peace of mind during cold snaps when getting out might be impossible.
Monitoring With Care
While it’s important to support our elderly loved ones’ nutrition, it’s equally crucial to respect their autonomy. Rather than taking control, aim to enable and empower. Keep a gentle eye out for warning signs that additional support might be needed, such as unexpected weight loss, empty cupboards, or regularly skipped meals. If you notice these signs, consider having a gentle conversation about additional support options, from GP check-ups to local lunch clubs.
The Bottom Line
As we navigate through these winter months, remember that good nutrition isn’t just about the food itself – it’s about making the whole process of planning, preparing, and enjoying meals both manageable and pleasurable.
Whether it’s setting up a regular shopping delivery, sharing more mealtimes, or simply ensuring their kitchen is well-lit and accessible, every supportive step helps create a foundation for better winter wellness. After all, food is more than just fuel – it’s about comfort, connection, and care. And in these challenging winter months, couldn’t we all do with a little more of each?
We’re sure you’ve all heard the one about billionaires far and wide buying up property in New Zealand in anticipation of the apocalypse? Ironic, don’t you think, that one of the last places to be inhabited by humans (none before 1300AD, apparently) will also be the last place standing when the doomsday clock finally strikes midnight?
Which, it has to be said, is looking closer than ever…
Anyway, we digress. We’re here for those inaugural visitors to the Land of the Long White Cloud (and Flat White Coffee), who are heading there for fun and frolics, curiosity and culture, rather than for self preservation. You’re our guys! And with that, here are 7 tips for first time visitors to New Zealand.
Go South For Scenery
Too many first time visitors to New Zealand make the huge mistake of focusing all of their attentions on the cosmopolitan cities of the North Island, where Auckland, Wellington and Hamilton lie. And while these places have much to offer, it’s the South Island which boasts the truly knock out, spectacular scenery for which the country is famed.
Don’t (and you won’t) miss the Southern Alps, the mountain range which runs for the length of the island and is peaked by Mount Cook (Aoraki in Maori). Scaling New Zealand’s tallest mountain will take at least three days on foot, but the more all encompassing Mount Cook National Park provides endless fantastic views and a sense of serenity you won’t find in the Northern hemisphere.
Other must sees on the Southern Island include Stewart Island, which actual, flying, pecking Kiwis call home. The Hokitika Gorge is perhaps the place which provides the most Instagram worthy shot; calm, turquoise waters surrounded by native bush; just bliss. When it’s this beautiful, you might even want to put your camera away.
We won’t cloak this in allusion or implication; New Zealand is expensive. Really expensive. There’s scant opportunity for budget backpack travel, make no mistake.
Even if you don’t stay in 5-star hotels or luxury resorts, you’re still going to be paying a premium for accommodation, sure, but most damaging to any attempt to be conservative with the coin is likely going to be eating and drinking out, which is as costly as anywhere we’ve encountered worldwide.
Activities and tours are also some of the most prohibitively expensive around, probably how and why their scenic destinations remain so well kempt and unspoilt. From getting a helicopter ride to hike Franz Josef which is one of New Zealand’s iconic glaciers, to cruising with whales in Kaikoura, experiences here don’t come cheap. If you’re to enjoy this amazing country to its full potential, then save, save, save before visiting.
Recent changes to New Zealand border control mean that UK travellers will now need to obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before they travel here. Previously a ‘visa waiver’ country, UK travellers could visit the country with ease. As of October 1st 2019, these rules have changed, partly to include an eco-levy aimed at supporting conservation efforts in the country. And who can argue with that?
An NZeTA is simple to apply for online and it takes just a few minutes, though travellers should allow up to 72 hours for processing. The NZeTA costs just $17 (around £8) via the free application app, or $23 (around £11) if completed online. You will also need to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $35 when you apply.
For UK citizens, the tourist visa rules are particularly kind; you can stay in New Zealand for six months, though you will need to satisfy the Immigration Officer at the airport that you meet the criteria for visa-free entry, which includes having an onward ticket and sufficient funds to support you during your stay.
You may also need to show proof of travel insurance on arrival. One way travel insurance in NZ is popular for those looking to stick around for a while and travel the country without pressure.
The weather in New Zealand is unpredictable, to say the least. Summer occurs during our winter, and vice versa, and temperatures are generally mild, though the North is warmer and as you travel south things get cooler and in the winter can dip below freezing. Average rainfall is high all year round and the sun is surprisingly intense and unrelenting even when temperatures suggest otherwise. In short, pack for all eventualities, as you would approach a holiday in Britain.
Safety First
You’ve probably already heard; New Zealand is one of the safest places on earth, boasting a Global Peace Index value of under 1.2, which places them behind only Iceland in the world’s most peaceful destinations.
That said, it would be foolish to be totally complacent with your belongings and personal safety when travelling. Theft is unfortunately not uncommon, particularly from parked, unattended vehicles in remote settings; take normal precautions and hide belongings from view or take them with you. The same goes for hotel rooms, particularly of the budget variety; use a safe if provided or take valuables along with you for the ride.
Pack Light, Ship Smart
Whilst the temptation to pack for every conceivable weather scenario is strong, remember that New Zealand has excellent shopping options for anything you might need. Many British expats and travellers alike have discovered the convenience of UK to New Zealand parcel forwarding services when they find themselves missing specific items from home or need to receive care packages from family.
These services are particularly handy if you’re planning an extended stay or working holiday, allowing you to ship everything from favourite teatime treats to essential outdoor gear that you’d rather not lug through airports.
Time Your Visit Wisely
The peak tourist season runs from December to February (remember, that’s summer down under), when prices soar and accommodation can be scarce in popular destinations. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons – March to May or September to November – when you’ll find more reasonable rates and fewer crowds but still enjoy relatively mild weather.
The autumn months (March to May) are particularly spectacular in regions like Central Otago, where the landscape transforms into a canvas of reds and golds. Plus, if you’re a wine enthusiast, this coincides perfectly with the grape harvest in renowned wine regions like Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay.
And with that, we hope you enjoy your trip to New Zealand just as much as we’re looking forward to hearing about it!
