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Playgrounds Of The Rich: The World’s Most Exclusive Destinations

Editorial Team
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Playgrounds Of The Rich: The World’s Most Exclusive Destinations

In a world where luxury knows no bounds, the global elite have carved out their own private paradises far from the madding crowds of popular tourist haunts. These exclusive enclaves serve not merely as holiday destinations but as carefully curated stages where the wealthy can network, unwind and—let’s be honest—flaunt their considerable fortunes.

From sun-drenched Mediterranean shores to alpine retreats and remote tropical hideaways, these are the destinations where you’re more likely to spot a billionaire than a budget traveller.

Punta del Este, Uruguay

They call it the Monaco of South America, though that hardly does justice to Punta del Este’s unique blend of Latin heat and European sophistication. This Uruguayan peninsula jutting into the Atlantic has transformed from sleepy fishing village to the summer playground for South America’s most powerful families.

The city splits neatly between Playa Mansa (the “tame beach”) and Playa Brava (the “fierce beach”), a geographic division that mirrors the two faces of Punta itself. By day, the beautiful people bronze themselves on pristine sands or shop at beachfront boutiques. As night descends, the action shifts to the exclusive clubs around La Barra, where Shakira has been spotted dancing until dawn, while Leonardo DiCaprio and Ralph Lauren have sought refuge in the peninsula’s more secluded corners.

What makes “Punta” special is its paradoxical nature—cosmopolitan yet intimate, luxurious yet unpretentious. Despite the wealth on display, you’ll still find multi-millionaires queueing for the legendary chivito sandwiches at humble beachside grills, proving that even the elite can’t resist Uruguay’s simple pleasures.

St Tropez, France

Once a humble fishing village on the French Riviera, St Tropez transformed into the playground of the rich and famous after Brigitte Bardot’s appearance in the 1956 film “And God Created Woman.” Since then, this sun-drenched corner of the Côte d’Azur has never looked back.

Those looking into luxury superyachts for sale may also want to make St Tropez their first stop . Indeed here, the harbour tells the story best: gleaming superyachts moor side by side while their celebrity owners—Johnny Depp, the Beckhams, Jay-Z and Beyoncé among them—slip ashore to dine at Sénéquier or lounge at the exclusive Club 55 beach. As dusk falls, the real revelry begins at legendary nightspots like Les Caves du Roy, where tables come with minimum spends that would cover a month’s rent for most mortals.

Despite the wealth on display, there’s still something delightfully unpretentious about the place. Locals play pétanque in the Place des Lices while billionaires wander past in espadrilles, and the morning fish market continues regardless of which oligarch’s yacht is blocking the view.

Read: 5 glamorous, luxury things to do in St Tropez

Palm Beach, USA

Across the Atlantic, Palm Beach stands as a monument to old American money and carefully cultivated exclusivity. This slender barrier island off Florida’s east coast has been the winter refuge of America’s elite since oil tycoon Henry Flagler first laid down railway tracks in the 1890s.

Unlike Miami’s flashy scene just an hour south, Palm Beach trades ostentation for understatement. Behind the manicured hedges taller than houses lie sprawling estates where generations of Rockefellers, Kennedys and their ilk have wintered in discreet luxury. Worth Avenue offers shopping to rival Fifth Avenue, though you’ll rarely see anyone carrying bags—purchases are quietly delivered to homes or yachts.

Photo by Tessa Edmiston on Unsplash

The true heart of Palm Beach exclusivity beats behind the wrought-iron gates of the Palm Beach Country Club. Here, membership remains so elusive that even extraordinary wealth doesn’t guarantee entry—a fact that drives newcomer billionaires to distraction. As locals quip, “Money can buy you a house on Palm Beach, but it can’t get you through certain doors.”

Singapore

When the ultra-wealthy tire of sand between their toes, many head to Singapore—a gleaming urban paradise where money talks but never raises its voice. This tiny island nation has reinvented itself from colonial outpost to Asian financial powerhouse, creating along the way a playground for those who prefer their luxury air-conditioned and meticulously organised.

The unmistakable silhouette of Marina Bay Sands, with its boat-shaped rooftop infinity pool perched impossibly atop three towers, has become shorthand for Singapore’s audacious approach to luxury. Here, Prince Harry, Jennifer Lopez and Chris Hemsworth have all cooled off 57 floors above the city while contemplating the £17,000-per-night price tag of the Chairman Suite.

Singapore
marina bay sands singapore
Singapore

Singapore’s appeal lies in its contradictions—traditional shophouses stand in the shadow of futuristic skyscrapers, while Michelin-starred restaurants share streets with world-famous hawker stalls.

For the elite accustomed to the finer things in life, Singapore is a dream. Here everything works perfectly, the streets are spotless and one’s wealth can be enjoyed out in the open.

Dubai, UAE

If subtlety is the hallmark of old money, then Dubai is where new money goes to shed its inhibitions. Rising from the desert sands in barely half a century, this glittering metropolis stands as a monument to the proposition that too much is never enough.

The Burj Al Arab, shaped like a billowing sail on its own artificial island, redefined hotel luxury by declaring itself “seven stars“—a rating that doesn’t officially exist but somehow feels appropriate when your suite comes with a 24-karat gold iPad, personal butler, and chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce. For a cool £9,000 per night, guests can soak in marble jacuzzis while contemplating the audacity of creating ski slopes in the desert next door.

Giorgio Armani and the Beckhams maintain homes here, no doubt drawn by the zero income tax and the heady knowledge that in Dubai, one’s financial excesses aren’t just accepted—they’re expected.

Read: 7 itinerary ideas for your luxury holiday to Dubai 

The Maldives

When the burdens of immense wealth become too taxing, the elite retreat to the Maldives—a scattered collection of atolls in the Indian Ocean where privacy comes guaranteed and stress is strictly prohibited. With nearly half the islands housing just a single resort, exclusivity reaches its logical conclusion here.

The overwater villa—that iconic structure perched on stilts above crystal waters—was perfected in the Maldives, offering a physical manifestation of splendid isolation. The ultra-wealthy book entire islands, while the merely very rich must content themselves with underwater suites where glass walls reveal passing manta rays and reef sharks. At places like Velaa Private Island, owned by Czech billionaire Jiří Šmejc, no whim goes unfulfilled, from midnight swims with bioluminescent plankton to personal submarine excursions.

Rita Ora, Gwyneth Paltrow and Taylor Swift have all sought refuge in this paradise, where even paparazzi must respect the sacred barrier of the endless azure sea. The real luxury of the Maldives isn’t found in thread counts or champagne brands—it’s the increasingly rare commodity of genuine seclusion.

Read: Eating Your Way Around The Maldives: 12 National Dishes You Have To Try

Marbella, Spain

Tucked between the Sierra Blanca mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, Marbella has blossomed from sleepy Andalusian town to the playground of sheikhs, oligarchs, and celebrities—without ever quite losing its Spanish soul.

The real action centers on Puerto Banús, where the marina glistens with superyachts that would make Onassis blush. Crew members polish already-spotless decks while their ultra-wealthy owners browse Bulgari and Cartier or linger over langoustines at waterfront restaurants. By night, the legendary Olivia Valére nightclub throbs with aristocrats and the occasional royal, all paying astronomical sums for champagne delivered with sparklers and theatrical flourish.

The “Golden Mile” stretching between Puerto Banús and old Marbella hosts an array of compounds that would make security consultants weep with joy—high walls, discreet gates, and state-of-the-art systems protect the privacy of residents like Antonio Banderas and the Saudi royal family. Yet amid all this conspicuous wealth, Marbella’s old town remains stubbornly authentic, with flower-filled plazas where local grandmothers still gossip while the global elite sip sangria just streets away.

Saint Barthélemy, Caribbean

Locals call it St. Barths, the French call it Saint-Bart, and the very rich simply call it paradise. This tiny French territory in the Caribbean spans just 25 square kilometres but looms large in the imagination of the global elite. The island’s notoriously tricky airport, with its heart-stopping descent over a steep hill before a short runway, ensures a self-selecting clientele—those with private jets and steady nerves.

Gustavia harbour tells the story best: a collection of superyachts so impressive it could double as a floating billionaires’ conference. Ashore, barefoot luxury reigns supreme, with unassuming beach shacks serving £500 bottles of rosé to tech moguls and supermodels who’ve ditched their shoes but kept their diamonds.

Dua Lipa, Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey, and Nicole Kidman have all been spotted sun-worshipping here. The real magic of St. Barths lies in its studied informality—where billionaires in flip-flops pretend not to notice other billionaires in flip-flops, creating perhaps the world’s most exclusive private club without walls.

The Hamptons, USA

Mention “heading east” to a Manhattan socialite between May and September, and you needn’t specify where. The Hamptons—that string of villages on Long Island’s South Fork—has been New York’s summer escape for the privileged since the 19th century, when the city’s industrial barons built the first “cottages” (read: mansions) along its pristine Atlantic beaches.

Today, those cottages have evolved into sprawling compounds hidden behind towering privet hedges so tall and dense they’ve become a status symbol of their own. The seasonal migration begins each Memorial Day, when a parade of Range Rovers and Maseratis inch their way down the Long Island Expressway in what locals wryly call “the longest parking lot in America.”

The social calendar revolves around charity galas that double as competitive displays of philanthropy, exclusive beach clubs where memberships pass through generations, and the Hampton Classic Horse Show, where the riders often have less impressive pedigrees than their mounts. Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Calvin Klein, and the Clintons all maintain retreats here, while a flotilla of social strivers circle in their orbit, hoping for invitations to the right pool parties. Yet for all its wealth and pretension, the Hamptons still conjures a particular American nostalgia—the smell of sea salt mixing with freshly mown grass, and the feeling, however illusory, of simpler times.

Read: 10 Of The Best Destinations In Europe For An Unforgettable Yachting Experience

St. Moritz, Switzerland

When European aristocrats discovered St. Moritz in the mid-19th century, they began a love affair with winter sports that transformed the Alpine experience from peasant necessity to patrician pleasure. Today, this Swiss enclave remains the quintessential winter playground for those who view skiing as merely one activity in a broader social performance.

Perched 1,800 metres above sea level in the pristine Engadin Valley, St. Moritz benefits from what locals call the “champagne climate”—dry, sunny days that feel brisk rather than brutal, perfect for showing off the latest Moncler creations against blinding white snow. The Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, with its iconic tower overlooking the frozen lake, has been hosting royalty since 1896, its wood-panelled corridors whispering with generations of blue-blooded gossip.

The winter social season defies conventional logic: polo matches played on the frozen lake, the White Turf horse races where thoroughbreds thunder across packed snow, and the invitation-only Cresta Run toboggan course—a terrifying ice chute that has tested courage and broken bones since 1885. Property here sells for eye-watering sums, not that the buyers notice; when you’re paying £30,000 per square metre, what’s a few million between friends?

Aspen, Colorado

What began as a silver mining outpost in the Colorado Rockies has mutated into something far more precious: a winter playground where the air is thin and the wallets are fat. Aspen manages the neat trick of feeling both rustic and rarefied—a place where billionaires in £2,000 ski jackets can pretend they’re communing with nature.

Aspen
Aspen

The town’s Victorian core remains charmingly intact, though the general stores have been replaced by Prada and Gucci boutiques, and the saloons transformed into farm-to-table restaurants where reservations are harder to secure than venture capital funding. During Christmas and New Year, the small airport becomes a parking lot for private jets, their gleaming fuselages lined up like expensive toys temporarily abandoned by children rushing to open presents.

Jeff Bezos, the Crown family, John Paulson, and Kevin Costner all maintain compounds here, their security details adding a frisson of intrigue to otherwise unremarkable SUVs crawling through town. The Aspen Institute and summer music festival provide intellectual cover for the conspicuous consumption, allowing wealthy visitors to feel culturally nourished even as they drop thousands on après-ski champagne. “It’s the most beautiful place,” they’ll tell you earnestly, and they’re right—though the view through a multi-million-dollar picture window inevitably improves the scenery.

Lake Como, Italy

If money can’t buy taste, someone forgot to tell Lake Como. This Y-shaped body of water cradled by Alpine foothills has been seducing the well-heeled since Roman times, when Pliny the Younger built not one but two villas on its shores. Two millennia later, Como remains the gold standard for old-world glamour—a place where even new money quickly acquires a patina of sophistication.

The lake’s shores are dotted with Renaissance villas and Belle Époque mansions, many accessible only by private boat or helicopter. Villa d’Este, now an iconic hotel, embodies Como’s timeless elegance with its floating swimming pool and gardens that have hosted everyone from Clark Gable to Elizabeth Taylor. Alfred Hitchcock was so enchanted he filmed scenes for his first film, “The Pleasure Garden,” here in the 1920s.

George and Amal Clooney catapulted Como back into contemporary consciousness when they purchased the 18th-century Villa Oleandra in Laglio. They reportedly spend four months annually at their £10 million estate, their presence drawing a rotating cast of Hollywood A-listers who cruise the lake in vintage wooden Rivas, the Ferrari of boats.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Some five thousand miles from mainland France lies a volcanic island so startlingly beautiful it seems computer-generated. Bora Bora, with its impossibly blue lagoon encircled by coral reefs and dominated by the jagged silhouette of Mount Otemanu, has become the ultimate trophy destination for those wealthy enough to venture literally to the ends of the earth for their pleasures.

bora Bora
Bora Bora

The overwater bungalow—that architectural icon now replicated from the Maldives to Mexico—reaches its apotheosis here. At the Four Seasons Resort, where rooms start at £1,000 per night and private villas soar beyond £26,000, guests sleep on glass panels that reveal tropical fish swirling below and dine on seafood caught hours earlier. Jennifer Aniston, Justin Bieber, and Robert De Niro have all surrendered to Bora Bora’s particular spell, their security details trying (and failing) to look inconspicuous in paradise.

What separates Bora Bora from other tropical idylls is its particular balance of raw nature and refined comfort. Despite the Michelin-worthy cuisine and 300-thread-count sheets, guests remain thrillingly aware of the island’s volcanic heart and the vast, empty Pacific stretching beyond the reef. It’s a primordial Eden with butler service—allowing billionaires to feel momentarily like castaways, albeit ones with personal chefs, infinity pools, and Wi-Fi strong enough to check their stock portfolios between swims.

The Bottom Line

As global wealth continues to concentrate in fewer hands, these rarefied playgrounds grow ever more exclusive. For the ultra-wealthy, these destinations serve as more than mere holiday spots—they’re carefully controlled environments where the fortunate few can escape both the masses and the burdens that accompany vast fortunes.

In these enclaves, privacy and discretion have become the ultimate luxuries—more precious than the finest champagne or the softest linens. Here, billionaires can briefly forget their boardroom battles and politicians can shed their public personas. The real currency in these playgrounds isn’t money (everyone has that) but access: to the right clubs, the right parties, the right people.

As one Palm Beach socialite famously quipped, “Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy a yacht big enough to sail right up to where happiness is.” In these exclusive destinations, that happiness is served chilled, with a perfect view, and far from prying eyes.

7 Home Makeover Ideas That Will Help Open Up Your Home

Editorial Team
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7 Home Makeover Ideas That Will Help Open Up Your Home

Is it just us, or does it feel like the four walls of home are closing in? Previously open spaces are now full of work paraphernalia, and rooms once ripe for taking a few moments to yourself are now occupied with family members who used to, you know, go out once in a while. The hangover from a global pandemic, no doubt, but also a reaction to a seemingly ceaseless cost of living crisis and, you know, a particularly gloomy spring so far…

Fortunately, there are solutions to this overwhelming sense of overcrowding which don’t involve having to sling up a tent in the garden and hide out there until this ‘thing’ is all over. Instead, just a few simple domestic additions and adjustments can have your house feeling more spacious than ever. With that in mind, here are 7 home makeover ideas that will help open up your home.

Simply Add Mirrors

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who has the most spacious home of them all? You, after reading this, we’d wager.

Consider creating a gallery wall of mirrors to make any room in the home seem bigger. Indeed, a wall of mirrors can add that much-needed sense of spaciousness, especially in small rooms, by reflecting light around and giving the illusion of an expansive domestic set up. 

Mirrors also enhance natural light, reflecting even a sliver and magnifying that sense of illumination. As Real Homes explain, “A gallery wall devoted entirely to mirrors doesn’t just brighten and enlarge a space visually; it also creates a visually striking focal point”. Real talk from Real Homes; who are we to argue?

The Illusion Of An Expansive Outdoors

Bringing the outdoors in is one of the easiest ways to make your home feel brighter, fresher, and more invigorating. Ideal Home suggests you “Conjure the illusion of an amazing landscape with a trompe-l’oeil feature wall”, which basically acts as a mural to all things verdant and living, without the effort required to actually keep plants alive.

Alternatively, you could introduce actual plants; think a massive feature wall of greenery which adds the illusion of extra space by playing with height, depth and the idea of where the home ends and the garden begins. 

Knock Down Some Walls 

Here at IDEAL, we love open-plan living spaces. From spending more time in the kitchen to hosting dinner parties, this generous, sociable layout promotes a live-work-dine experience which really helps you make the most of your home.

Open-plan living is one way to bind a kitchen, typically at the back of the house, with other rooms and the garden to create one large multi-functional and light-filled space. 

The nature of the design traditionally allows for light to travel all the way through the ground floor of a property, with no pesky walls getting in the way and blocking its natural flow; great for mood and saving on electricity costs, too!

Removing walls not only allows more natural light to travel through the home, but it also makes a small area seem much larger, too. Knocking through a room – an under-used dining space, for instance – into a smaller kitchen to make the most of both area’s floor space is a great idea.

Just don’t knock down that lovely green feature wall you’ve created!

Install New Windows

There are loads of different styles of windows out there. But when it comes to opening up your space and letting more light in, some types of windows are better than others.

Floor-to-ceiling windows are ideal here – the expansive panes of glass will flood your home with natural light. That said, they aren’t, of course, practical for every home. 

Alternatively, casement windows combine narrow frames with a single slash and are known for their ability to let maximum light in, while double hung windows allow you to maximise ventilation and light flow.  

Suppose your eyes are immediately drawn to the cost element, which can often be high where replacing windows are concerned. In that case, rest assured that there grants that you may be eligible for. These offer completely free or reduced cost windows and doors to some households within the UK in the form of a home improvement grant. This is to help households improve energy efficiency and, ultimately, reduce the country’s carbon footprint.

Add Bifold Doors

If you’re looking to introduce even more openness to your home (hey, that tent is starting to sound like the solution, after all), then you’ve probably considered a wall of folding doors and if you haven’t, then you should.

Modern bifold doors not only fill a room with natural light, making it feel bigger, brighter and more beautiful, but they also effortlessly blur the border between your indoor and outdoor spaces. 

This house-to-garden connection is ideal for the warmer months, allowing summer hospitality to spill out from the home and into the garden. Whereas in the winter, when it’s dark and gloomy and you’re confined to the four walls of your home, bifold doors are a superb way to bring the outdoors in, letting that much needed natural light flow into your property. Job done!

Utilise Multi-Functional Furniture

In the quest for a more spacious home, the furniture you choose plays a pivotal role. Opting for multi-functional pieces can transform the way you utilise space within your home. A sofa bed in the living room, for instance, can turn a conventional seating area into a guest room in a pinch. Similarly, an ottoman with storage can serve as a footrest, additional seating, and a place to stow away blankets or books.

Nesting tables are another excellent choice; they can be spread out to hold drinks and snacks when you’re entertaining, and tucked away neatly when you need more floor space. Choose furniture that can adapt to different spaces and needs, which is particularly useful in smaller homes where every inch counts. By investing in furniture that serves multiple purposes, you can reduce clutter and make your home feel more expansive and adaptable to your changing needs.

Embrace Vertical Storage Solutions

When floor space is at a premium, it’s time to think vertically. Utilising the height of your rooms with tall shelving units can draw the eye upwards, creating a sense of volume and space. Wall-mounted shelves are a fantastic way to display books, ornaments, and plants without sacrificing valuable square footage.

Moreover, consider installing shelves in otherwise unused spaces, such as above door frames or in the corners of rooms. Indeed, by embracing vertical storage, you can declutter surfaces and maintain a more open, airy feel in your home.

The Bottom Line

In the end, creating a sense of spaciousness in your home is about being strategic with your design choices. From the reflective magic of mirrors to the transformative power of bifold doors, each of these seven home makeover ideas offers a unique way to enhance the openness of your living space. By incorporating multi-functional furniture and vertical storage solutions, you can further optimise your home’s layout for a more expansive feel.

Remember, the goal is not just to create the illusion of space, but to actually improve the flow and functionality of your home. With a bit of creativity and some smart design tactics, you can turn even the most cramped quarters into a haven of spacious serenity. So, before you consider pitching that tent in the garden, try out these tips and watch as your home opens up, becoming a place where light, space, and style coexist beautifully.

Callisthenics Uncovered: A Personal Trainer’s Top Tips On Building Muscle Without Weights

Editorial Team
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Callisthenics Uncovered: A Personal Trainer’s Top Tips On Building Muscle Without Weights

When it comes to building muscle, the common imagery that springs to mind is often a gym filled with heavy weights, clanking iron and a soundtrack of roaring dudes. However, there’s an alternative approach that’s been gaining traction and respect in the fitness community: callisthenics. This form of exercise utilises one’s own body weight to build muscle and strength, offering a unique set of benefits and challenges, potential for muscle growth and new motivation. 

So, if you can’t get to a gym easily, don’t have the time to set aside for daily trips there, or simply prefer the organic, freeform, freeing nature of bodyweight training, then callisthenics could be for you. With the help of AS Personal Training, here are some top tips on building muscle without using weights.

Understanding Callisthenics

Callisthenics is rooted in ancient Greek traditions, with the word itself deriving from the Greek words ‘kalos’ (meaning ‘beautiful’) and ‘sthenos’ (meaning ‘strength’). It encompasses a range of exercises that are rhythmic, systematic, and often involve minimal equipment. The beauty of callisthenics lies in its simplicity and the fact that it can be practised almost anywhere.

The Benefits Of Bodyweight Training

Before we delve into the how-tos, let’s explore why you might choose callisthenics over traditional weightlifting:

  • Accessibility: No need for expensive workout equipment or gym memberships; your body and gravity are your primary tools.
  • Versatility: You can easily modify exercises to increase or decrease difficulty, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
  • Functional Strength: Calisthenics develops strength that’s applicable to everyday movements and activities.
  • Balance and Coordination: These exercises often require control and precision, enhancing your overall body coordination.
  • Reduced Injury Risk: With proper form, the risk of injury is often lower than with heavy weights, as you’re less likely to overexert with external loads.

Building Muscle With Calisthenics

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to build muscle through callisthenics.

Master The Basics

Before you attempt advanced moves, ensure you have a solid foundation. Focus on mastering the following fundamental exercises:

Push-Ups

A staple for chest, shoulders, and triceps…

  • Hand Positioning: Experiment with hand positions to target different muscle groups. For instance, placing your hands closer together will work the triceps more, while a wider stance focuses on the chest.
  • Elevation: Elevate your feet to increase the difficulty and target the upper chest and shoulders.
  • Tempo: Slow down the eccentric (lowering) phase of the push-up to increase muscle time under tension.
  • Volume: Gradually increase the number of sets and reps as you get stronger.
  • Variations: Incorporate push-up variations such as archer push-ups, one-arm push-ups, or explosive push-ups to challenge your muscles differently.

Pull-Ups/Chin-Ups

Excellent for back and bicep development…

  • Grip Variation: Use different grips (overhand, underhand, neutral) to engage different parts of your back and biceps.
  • Pause Reps: Pause at the top of the movement to increase intensity and improve grip strength.
  • Negatives: Focus on the lowering phase by jumping up to the bar and then slowly lowering yourself down.
  • Volume: Add more reps or sets over time, or try to do more pull-ups within a set time frame.
  • Assistance: If you’re struggling with pull-ups, use resistance bands for assistance or perform inverted body rows as a progression.

Squats

Target the legs and glutes…

  • Depth: Aim for a full range of motion, squatting down until your thighs are at least parallel to the ground, to engage the maximum number of muscle fibres.
  • Foot Position: Adjust your stance width and toe angle to target different areas of the legs.
  • Tempo: Implement a slow tempo or pause at the bottom of the squat to increase difficulty.
  • Jump Squats: Add plyometric jump squats to build explosive power.
  • One-Legged Squats: Progress to pistol squats or Bulgarian split squats for a unilateral challenge that also tests balance.

Dips

Work the chest, shoulders, and triceps…

  • Depth: When doing dips, go as low as you can to fully engage the chest and triceps, but without compromising shoulder health.
  • Body Position: Lean forward slightly to place more emphasis on the chest, or stay upright to focus on the triceps.
  • Leg Position: Elevate your legs to increase the difficulty or cross them to help with balance.
  • Weighted Dips: Once you’ve mastered bodyweight dips, add a weight belt or hold a dumbbell between your feet for added resistance.
  • Isometrics: Hold the dip at the lowest point for a few seconds to increase intensity.

Planks

Strengthen the core…

  • Posture: Ensure your body forms a straight line from head to heels, engaging your core, glutes, and thighs to maintain proper alignment.
  • Variations: Try side planks, reverse planks, or planks with leg lifts to work different muscle groups.
  • Movement: Add movement to your plank by performing plank jacks, mountain climbers, or by walking your hands out and back in.
  • Time: Gradually increase the duration of your planks, aiming to hold the position for longer periods.
  • Props: Use an exercise ball or TRX bands to add instability, which forces your core to work harder.

Progression Is Key

To build muscle, you must continually challenge your body. Once you can comfortably perform the basic exercises, start increasing the difficulty. This can be done by:

  • Adding More Repetitions: Increase the number of reps per set.
  • Elevating Intensity: Slow down the movements to increase time under tension.
  • Progressing to Advanced Variations: For example, move from regular push-ups to diamond push-ups or archer push-ups.

More Advanced Calisthenics & Body Weight Exercises

As you progress in callisthenics, you can challenge yourself with more advanced exercises that require greater strength, balance, and body control. Here are five advanced callisthenics exercises to consider incorporating into your routine:

Muscle-Ups

A muscle-up is a combination of a pull-up followed by a dip. It’s an advanced exercise that targets your upper body and requires significant strength and technique.

  • How to Progress: Start by mastering pull-ups and dips separately. Then, work on explosive pull-ups, getting your chest to the bar. Use resistance bands for assistance if needed, and practise the transition from the pull-up to the dip in a fluid motion.

Front Lever

The front lever is an impressive skill that involves holding your body horizontal to the ground, parallel with the floor, while gripping a pull-up bar.

  • How to Progress: Begin with easier variations such as tuck front levers or one-leg extended front levers. Gradually extend your legs as your core and back strength improve. Practice holding the position for longer periods.

Planche

The planche is a powerful move where you hold your body parallel to the ground, supported only by your hands. It requires significant wrist, arm, shoulder, and core strength.

  • How to Progress: Start with planche leans and frog stands to build up strength. Progress to tuck planche and slowly extend your legs out as you become stronger. Use parallettes or push-up bars if wrist discomfort is an issue.

Human Flag

The human flag requires you to hold your body sideways and parallel to the ground, gripping a vertical pole. This move demands substantial core, arm, and shoulder strength.

  • How to Progress: Begin by practicing the flag hold with your bottom arm pulling and your top arm pushing. Work on negative flags, starting from the top position and slowly lowering down. Build up to the full human flag by increasing your hold time.

Handstand Push-Ups

Handstand push-ups are an advanced vertical pushing exercise where you perform a push-up in a handstand position. This targets the shoulders, triceps, and core.

  • How to Progress: First, get comfortable with holding a handstand against a wall. Practice partial range of motion push-ups, gradually increasing the depth. Move away from the wall as you gain balance and control.

When attempting these advanced exercises, it’s crucial to have a solid foundation of strength and to have mastered the basic movements. Always focus on form to prevent injury, and consider seeking guidance from a calisthenics coach or experienced practitioner.

Implement A Routine

Consistency is vital. Create a balanced routine that targets all the major muscle groups. A typical routine might look like this:

  • Monday: Upper body (push focus)
  • Tuesday: Lower body and core
  • Wednesday: Rest or active recovery
  • Thursday: Upper body (pull focus)
  • Friday: Lower body and core
  • Weekend: Rest or light activities (e.g., walking, yoga)

Don’t Neglect Nutrition

Muscle growth isn’t just about exercise; nutrition plays a significant role. Ensure you’re consuming enough protein to aid muscle repair and growth, and don’t forget to hydrate adequately.

The Bottom Line

Callisthenics offers a unique approach to muscle building that’s both effective and accessible. By mastering the basics, focusing on progression, and paying attention to form, nutrition, and recovery, you can achieve impressive results without ever lifting a weight. Remember, the journey to building muscle is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay patient, stay consistent, and enjoy the process.

Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer looking for a new challenge or a beginner seeking a cost-effective way to get fit, callisthenics can be a rewarding and practical option. So why not give it a go? Your body might just thank you for it.

8 Ways To Feng Shui Your Bedroom

Editorial Team
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8 Ways To Feng Shui Your Bedroom

Ideal for adopting a new approach to getting a good night’s sleep…

A recent study by psychologists in Sweden and then discussed in the Guardian certainly made for some relatable reading; that “two nights of broken sleep can make people feel years older”. Amen to that.

While there are so many reasons that we’re not getting enough good sleep right now, the worst thing you can do is shrug and accept endless restless nights and tetchy, tense days. Should you be seeking a new angle, then one way to help is by creating the right bedroom environment that will encourage you to relax and drift off smoothly. Enter Feng Shui.

A bedroom designed with Feng Shui in mind is all about creating a peaceful and balanced environment that promotes a good night’s sleep. While the practice is complex and best left in the hands of the masters, simply put, feng shui is all about optimising the environment around us to achieve harmony and balance. It’s driven by the idea of ‘qi’ (pronounced “chee”), or the energy that connects all living things. 

When it comes to feng shui energy in your bedroom, it’s all about promoting the flow of love, ideally both of the self and the romantic sort. Moreover, because you’re in a passive state while you sleep, you’re more susceptible to these energies. You owe it to yourself to do all you can to harness them!

From bed position and colours to headboards and even what’s underneath your bed, the finer details matter so much. With that in mind, here are 8 ways to feng shui your bedroom, IDEAL for adopting a new approach to getting a good night’s sleep.

Calm Colours & Bedroom Bagua

When it comes to colour schemes for the bedroom, certain shades and tones are thought to promote sensuality and restfulness. As a general rule, opt for skin tone colours. As the tones of people’s skin vary wonderfully, you have a wide palette of colours to choose from; think chocolate browns, peach tones, pale whites and creams. However, do try to avoid stark whites (a lesson for life, perhaps) as it’s a metal element which can become too activating. 

A Bagua map is another way to choose colours for your bedroom. Bagua, which translates to ‘eight areas’, is an energy map placed over the floor plan of your home. It’s essentially a blueprint that interior design experts use when designing a room with feng shui as the focus. 

When it comes to the bedroom, a Bagua can offer perspective on how to decorate with the thought of the overall energy of your home in mind. Each area of the Bagua is a specific area defined by the compass in relation to your front door. For example, if your bedroom is in the south of the house in relation to your front door, then choose colours of the fire element – red, pink, orange and purple.

Should your bedroom sit in the middle on the property, then it’s recommended that you channel earthy tones; dark yellows, auburns and deep browns. Fascinating stuff!

Keep The Chi Flowing

Feng shui is said to allow your energy to flow uninhibited through your home, improving your overall quality of life in myriad, unseen ways. When it comes to a bedroom which channels feng shui, you have to know how to keep the chi flowing, and how to deflect any negative energy that may enter your room.  

Some basic steps include shutting your bedroom door at night as open doors allow energy to escape. Shutting the door will ensure that any positive energy will stay throughout the night and help you get the best sleep, promoting both mental and physical rejuvenation.

It’s also advised that you have curtains which you can draw shut, as uncovered windows at night create an imbalance of Yin energy. Closing the curtains will prevent your chi energy from flowing out of the window; no one wants that. 

Where The Magic Happens 

Placing your bed as the focal point of the entire room is conducive to good Feng shui. Indeed, you need to ensure that it’s in the ‘command position’; never place your bed on the same wall as the door – it’s thought that you may feel threatened if someone were to walk in and surprise you, and that sense of existential angst can affect your sleep negatively.  

Go further. When it comes to positioning your bed, try not to place it directly below a window – it’s bad Feng shui, pure and simple. If you have no other choice, make sure you have some solid blinds to stop the energy flowing out. For a more in-depth guide on how to position your bed, the good guide guys at The Spruce have created this guide on how to place your bed for Good Feng Shui. 

When it comes to keeping the qi flowing, energy needs to circulate around your body when you’re asleep. Avoid beds that have built-in storage draws as the space under the bed is blocked and the qi will be blocked from flowing freely.

In a similar vein, don’t push your bed up against the wall as it does not allow the free flow of energy, making it difficult for you to rejuvenate as you sleep. That said, it’s important to have a supporting wall behind your head and a solid headboard. In feng shui, as in life, headboards provide a feeling of support. 

Your Mattress

Your mattress is one of the most vital furniture pieces when it comes to Feng Shui because it’s the closest part to you. When you are asleep, your body is in a yin, passive state and therefore, it’s receptive to the vibrations surrounding you. 

Since your bed is one of the most private places in your house, it readily absorbs the “qi.” As such, it’s important that you choose your mattress wisely. Avoid using a used mattress as you can’t be sure what energy they have accumulated from previous users. Go for something supportive. We’re fans of an adjustable mattress base for extra support. 

Read: 3 helpful tips for achieving uninterrupted sleep

Embrace Symmetry For Balance

In Feng Shui, symmetry is associated with balance, harmony, and promoting equality in relationships. To enhance the Feng Shui of your bedroom, consider arranging your space symmetrically. This can be particularly effective when it comes to the placement of your bedside tables and lamps. Having identical or similar items on both sides of the bed can create a sense of balance and stability in the room.

When you enter a room that is symmetrically arranged, your mind perceives it as a peaceful and orderly space, which can be incredibly soothing just before sleep. This symmetry also represents partnership and can be especially beneficial for those seeking to strengthen their romantic relationships.

To implement this:

  • Place matching nightstands on either side of the bed, ensuring they are easily accessible and not cluttered.
  • Use pairs of lamps, candles, or decorative objects to create visual symmetry and a sense of partnership.
  • If possible, position the bed so that there is equal space on either side, allowing for an equal flow of energy and making it easy for both partners to get in and out of bed without disturbance.

Declutter

Distraction and debris are the enemy of a restful, sleep-focused winding down before bed. We’ve all had to leap up and out of bed to close ‘that wardrobe door’ before settling down, and some things like that will never change, but when there’s serious clutter in your room, it can affect your quality of sleep negatively. Indeed, according to Feng Shui, it’s more than just a distracting eyesore; it can actually block the flow of chi. Consider burning some sage to clear the space of negative energy while you declutter. 

Mind Your Mirrors

Mirror Mirror on the wall, will I ever find sleep again, at all? If you’re finding it hard to sleep, maybe it’s your mirror? Hey, there could be worse places to look for the answer, you beautiful thing. 

Indeed, according to the principles of feng shui, mirrors bounce energy around the room. Placing mirrors in the wrong place may cause restlessness and amplify worries. As such, don’t place a mirror opposite or above the bed. Even more importantly; never have two mirrors facing each other – they bounce energy off each other, blocking each other’s path and letting stale energy accumulate in the room. We’ve all felt that once or twice before, right?

Cover Your TV

When it comes to having TV in the bedroom, we’re divided. While we can’t argue with feng shui experts that having a TV is bad for yin and yang, here at IDEAL, we quite enjoy having a TV in the bedroom. If, like us, you savour those moments watching the news in bed with a cup of coffee in the morning, then according to feng shui principles, you should at least cover your TV when you sleep. Ah, there’s nothing like a bit of compromise in these divided times. 

The TV is an electronic device with a lot of static energy that can block the fresh flow of energy. By covering your television with a simple cloth, you can soothe the environment and make it more conducive for peace and ultimately, sleep.  

The Bottom Line

While we’ve spent a whole article talking about it, there’s only so much redesigning of your room can do. With that in mind, read our tips on how to get more restorative sleep for a healthy, holistic approach to getting your Zzzeds.

10 Packing Hacks For Parents Travelling With Babies & Young Children

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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10 Packing Hacks For Parents Travelling With Babies & Young Children

Perhaps you saw the news (no, revelation) of a formula statisticians had alighted on to figure out the likelihood of a backseat tantrum on a long car journey with the little ones?

Indeed, [T = 70 + 0.5E + 15F – 10S] aims to offer both predictions and solutions for those inevitable breakdowns that happen when ”are we there yet?” has been exhausted and the road trip has lost its novelty value.

But if you’re not much of a mathematician and words are more your medium, then might we interest you in the below?

When you’re getting ready to travel with babies and young children, it’s only natural that you’re itching to get out of the house and start your vacation. However, in the rush to get out, important items can get left behind.

Foresight is key, here, if you want to ensure that everything goes smoothly during your trip. Trying to squeeze everything but the kitchen sink into a kid’s size suitcase while having a crying baby in one arm and toddlers following around can, quite frankly, be exhausting.

It’s essential to remember a certain Spanish proverb when sorting out your packing; ”on a long journey, even a straw weighs heavy”. And in the wrong hands, if that straw is attached to a sippy cup, things can get very weighty indeed. That’s before you’ve deployed these; our 10 packing hacks for parents travelling with babies and young children.

Packing Cubes To Pack Your Clothes

Are you tired of packing your suitcase and worrying about creases in your little one’s clothes? If so, then try using packing cubes to pack your clothes. Packing cubes are great because they allow you to separate all the items you will take with you during your trip into different compartments. 

This way, everything is organised, and cleanliness won’t be an issue when it comes time to use them again; pop them out of their cube. For babies, dedicate one cube exclusively to nappies, wipes and changing essentials so you can quickly grab what you need during those urgent nappy changes.

Take Blankets & Cuddly Toys As Extra Protection For Your Kids

If you have a child who is afraid of flying, taking a blanket and a cuddly toy along is a sensible idea. The blanket will keep them calm, while the toy will be there to comfort them when they get scared. Since planes are usually pretty cold, the blanket will be a very welcome, snuggly relief for your little one.

For babies, their familiar comforter or muslin cloth can work wonders in soothing them during the strange sensations of take-off and landing. The scent of home provides reassurance in unfamiliar surroundings.

On that note, we all know how much kids love to kick off their shoes once seated on a bus, train or plane. Packing warm socks is a good idea, then, so their tootsies don’t freeze!

Read: 7 IDEAL tips for sleeping on the plane

Pack Multiple Silicone Bottles For Baby’s Milk

The last thing that you want to happen when travelling with children is to have them get hungry or thirsty and you find that you’re a long way from a shop.

A simple hack for parents who are travelling with young children is to make sure you travel with baby bottles filled with breast milk, water, juice, formula, or any other drink your child enjoys. You should probably bring multiple silicone bottles for their milk. They are BPA-free, lightweight, break-resistant, non-toxic, odourless, and transparent. 

Additionally, silicone bottles are easy to assemble and disassemble, making them a great travel companion for those looking for their suitcases to be compact. For exclusively breastfed babies, having a spare silicone breast pump can be a lifesaver for expressing on-the-go.

Portable, Packable Snacks

Bringing portable baby food is important; however, it can take too much space in your bag. Try to avoid anything with lots of sugar or salt, the former leading to a massive high then a crushing, crashing low, the latter causing headaches and dehydration. You don’t want either.

Instead of packing sauce containers and baby food jars, try bringing GoGo SqueeZ or Ella’s Kitchen fruit pouches. These leak-proof, easy-to-carry snacks come in individually sealed 100% BPA-free packages. The package has holes on each side for airflow, making them perfect for road trips, plane rides, or any other trip that might take you far away from home.

To ensure the safety of the food you packed, double-bag it tightly in Ziploc bags and put it inside an insulated lunch box. This way, the microwaved, pureed food will stay warm.

If that sounds like a bit of a faff, consider packing something light but nourishing, that’s tightly compacted, doesn’t take up too much room and won’t perish on the road, such as organic rice cereals, low-sugar granola bars, crackers, or healthy versions of popcorn. For babies who are weaning, pre-loaded silicone spoons with frozen fruit puree can serve as both a teething soother and nutritious snack.

Pack Multi-Purpose Bath & Beach Items

When travelling to destinations with water features, whether it’s a hotel pool, the seaside, or simply bath time in unfamiliar accommodation, bringing versatile water toys can save significant space whilst maximising entertainment value. A mesh bag containing a few small items like stacking cups, a collapsible bucket, and floating toys can serve you across multiple settings. These items become beach toys for sand play, bath toys for evening wind-down routines, and even rainy-day entertainment in a pinch. The mesh bag itself provides drainage and quick drying, preventing musty smells from developing during your holiday. Prioritise silicone or plastic items that won’t rust or deteriorate when repeatedly wet, and choose bright colours that are easily spotted if left behind at public pools or beaches.

Create A ‘First-Day Survival Bag’

When you arrive at your destination after a long journey, the last thing you want is to unpack your entire suitcase immediately to find essentials. Pack a small, separate bag with all the items you’ll need for the first 24 hours—a change of clothes for each family member, pyjamas, toothbrushes, nappies, wipes, and any medication. 

This clever hack means you can collapse into bed upon arrival or head straight to the pool without having to rifle through your entire luggage. It’s particularly useful if you’re arriving late at night or if there’s any chance your main luggage might be delayed. For babies, include enough formula and nappies to last the first day and night, plus a few extra in case of delays or emergencies. 

Use Washable Markers & A Travel-Sized Whiteboard

Electronic entertainment isn’t always practical, and colouring books get used up quickly. A brilliant alternative is to pack washable markers and a small whiteboard or laminated sheets. These provide endless drawing opportunities without the bulk of paper pads or the worry of crayon marks on hotel furniture. Children can draw, erase and start again, meaning one compact item replaces potentially dozens of colouring books. 

For older children, the whiteboard can also serve as a game board for hangman, noughts and crosses, or word games during long waits at airports or restaurants. Even babies can enjoy sensory experiences with special water-reveal colouring mats that leave no mess. The washable markers ensure that any accidents on clothes or surfaces can be easily cleaned—a relief for any parent who’s experienced the dismay of permanent marker discoveries.

Bring Their Favorite Pillow

We get used to particular pillows when we sleep, with their size and softness bringing the comfort of familiarity. We all know how vital having a comfortable place to sleep is while travelling or on road trips. If your little ones are not fond of sleeping on hotel pillows, then bring their favourite pillow with you on vacation.

Bringing inflatable pillows can help, too, if you’re really short on space, as they take up less space and can be deflated easily. For babies, their familiar cot sheet with the scent of home can help them settle in an unfamiliar travel cot.

Bring Your Child’s Favourite Toy

Saving the most obvious advice for last; sometimes, kids get bored when you take them on vacation. To prevent this from happening, make sure you bring their favourite baby toys. In the case of young children, try bringing ones that stimulate their senses because these toys are designed in such a way that they attract children’s attention and keep them occupied and entertained on long journeys. 

For babies, a small selection of high-contrast black and white cards or a rattle with different textures can provide sensory stimulation when they’re alert and curious.

Nominate A Packer

Since you’re here with us, going over these hacks, we think it’s safe to assume that you’ve been allocated the noble role of taking care of the kid’s packing. In case you haven’t, it’s always a good idea when travelling with young children to nominate one packer in the family, to ensure that stuff doesn’t get double packed or forgotten. Make it one parent’s responsibility, and stick to it. This is especially important when packing for babies, as forgetting essential items like special formula or medication could derail your entire holiday before it begins.

The Bottom Line

Babies and kids need stuff. And so much of it. But your trip will be vastly improved by packing light and only bringing with you what you absolutely need. Of course, medical necessities, snacks, and entertainment are essential, but does the little one really need his lightsaber, superman cape and doll’s house in the back of the car?

A final word on timing; if you’re like us, and you like to take your packing right down to the wire (sometimes still finessing it on the way to the airport), then you’ll know that this last minute approach does you no favours in terms of space saving, particularly when you’re going on holiday with the whole family.

Better in the long term, we think, to pack methodically and with time to spare, allowing plenty of time to squeeze in those vital extras and sieve out the unnecessaries. 

Speaking of which, here are some great tips on tackling a European city break with nothing but a cabin bag. Vital stuff, indeed.

How To Handle A Dispute With Your Neighbour Calmly

Editorial Team
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How To Handle A Dispute With Your Neighbour Calmly

We’ve all experienced that sense of rising friction with our neighbours once in a while, whether it’s because of the pumping drum and bass at four in the morning, the recycling bin they never bring back inside, or, perhaps, something you’ve done to rub them up the wrong way. 

When it comes to peaceful coexistence with your neighbour, life sure does get complicated, and simply trying to live in peace with your neighbour rarely feels, well simple, with rows erupting over property disputes, noise, and street etiquette, sometimes all seemingly at once.

It doesn’t have to be this way – we’re all adults here, after all. When trying to deal with things like property disputes, there is a lot you can do to make sure that you handle them calmly and maturely – to the benefit of all parties involved. So, with that being said, let’s get started; here’s how to handle a dispute with your neighbour calmly.

What Is A Property Dispute?

A typical property dispute can occur for a number of reasons. Essentially, a property dispute is a situation that you can get into with your neighbour when the two of you have an argument regarding something that is affecting both of your properties.

There are plenty of situations in which a property dispute can occur, especially when one party is making changes or modifications to the property. 

If your neighbour feels that the actions you are posing a threat to the value or structural integrity of their home, you can find yourself embroiled in a property dispute.

What Can Cause a Dispute Over Property?

It’s important to understand there are many different things which can cause a property dispute. Working out what the best route of action to take is will depend upon the type of dispute that you are having. Here are some of the most common:

  • Construction Work

Construction work is one of the most common instances where the threat of a property dispute crops up. If you perform work on your property, and do so without consulting your neighbour, they may feel that they have a claim to raise a dispute with you regarding potential damage done to the property.

You see, it’s all about the party wall. This is the part of the property which technically you own as well as your neighbour, and if you would do something that might make changes to this party wall, your neighbour can complain. This most commonly occurs during loft conversions. 

  • Noise

Noise complaints can quickly become a difficult problem to resolve. It’s often the case that when it comes to noise, some neighbours skip trying to resolve the situation peacefully and jump straight into an argument. If this happens to you, then you should definitely look at conflict resolution, potentially via the RCS’ Neighbour Disputes Service.

  • Antisocial Behaviour 

If something you do is considered to be antisocial to your neighbour then they may try to initiate a property dispute, or simply develop an issue with you as a person. Naturally, this is not something you want to happen, which is why it can be important to try and keep an eye on behaviour which could be seen as antisocial. 

According to the Antisocial Behaviour Act 2003 and Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011, antisocial behaviour is defined as ‘behaviour by a person which causes, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to persons not of the same household as the person’. Some examples include excessive noise, graffiti, drinking or drug use that leads to trouble being caused, littering, and racism, according to Shelter Scotland.

The Best Way To Address A Dispute

Let’s be honest – nobody wants to engage in a dispute with a neighbour. It’s often a bitter, problematic process.

There are a couple of different ways that you can engage in sensible conflict resolution with the result of settling the tension between you and your neighbour. 

The best thing that you can do to try and resolve the conflict peacefully is to open a dialogue with your neighbour. Sit down, talk about what it is that upset them, and see if you can find a peaceful solution together. 

Obviously, the end goal should be to try and avoid getting into a conflict with them, but if you have to do so, then the courts may be a necessary step for legally resolving an issue.

Insurance & Liability Issues

Often overlooked but potentially contentious, disputes can arise when property damage occurs and neighbours disagree about who’s liable and which insurance should cover the costs. For instance, if a tree from your property falls onto your neighbour’s greenhouse during a storm, or if water damage from a burst pipe in your home affects their property, determining responsibility can become complicated.

Similarly, if work carried out by your contractors accidentally damages their property, establishing who should pay for repairs can lead to conflict. To manage these situations effectively, it’s crucial to understand your various insurance polices, particularly your home insurance policy, and keep detailed records of any incidents. When damage occurs, inform both your insurance provider and your neighbour immediately, and try to work together to document the damage with photographs.

Being proactive about liability coverage and maintaining comprehensive insurance can prevent minor incidents from becoming major disputes, whilst demonstrating your commitment to being a responsible neighbour.

Handling A Dispute With Your Neighbour Calmly

So, property disputes with your neighbour can be a difficult thing to try and resolve. Obviously, you want to make sure that you and your neighbour get on to the best of your ability, but this isn’t always possible. 

For whatever reason, your neighbour may decide that they have an issue with you, and if they do, you need to find a method of peaceful resolution. If that doesn’t work, then you have access to the court system, and you can use this to secure the right outcome for the situation.

*Please be advised that this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for advice from a trained legal professional. Be sure to consult a lawyer/solicitor if you’re seeking advice on dispute resolution. We are not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information on this site.*

How To Manage Your Personal Time More Effectively

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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How To Manage Your Personal Time More Effectively

Hey, we realise that you’re short on time and we’ve been told not to keep you long, but while we’ve got your attention, can we interest you in an old Scottish proverb?

‘’What may be done at any time will be done at no time’’. 

Glad you liked it. Kinda pertinent, don’t you think? Because with work ever busy and personal lives demanding attention, time management can be a tricky task. 

Time is a precious and valuable commodity (they do say it’s money, after all) and managing it is a vital life skill that, sadly, they don’t teach in school. It’s a particularly hard thing to manage on a personal level; the pressures of deadlines and the demands of your boss are one surefire way to keep you focused on the clock, for better or for worse.

Anyway, let’s not waste any more of your precious time with this introduction; here’s how to manage your personal time more effectively.

Start Your Day Early & Save Time

You know what they say about the ‘early bird’, right? That they get loads done in the morning. 

Well, one of the best ways to manage your personal time more effectively is to make a real effort to get up earlier, ideally at the same time every day. A strict adherence to routine is the key to disciplined time management and subsequently, a day’s successful task completion, and this all begins with waking up right.

That said, it doesn’t help if you wake up at the crack of dawn to “have more time in the day” if you spend said saved time running around like a headless chicken mushing your outfit together.

To make your early start easier, decide on your outfit the day before. From a logistical point of view, picking out your outfit the night before helps to save time in the morning; just grab, wear and go. Moreover, it lowers stress as it’s one less decision you have to make in the morning. When choosing your outfit, be sure to check what the weather will be like the next day and get everything ready – from your knickers, tights, shoes, make-up, jewellery and handbag.

Another way to save time in the morning is to get your breakfast ready the day before. Consider prepping something the night before, like overnight oats. These little pots of joy are the ideal grab-and-go breakfast to start your day the healthy way. Oats are a natural superfood, 100% wholegrain and an excellent source of fibre, protein, vitamins and antioxidants. Result!

Seeing as we’re focusing on time management today, we won’t witter on when the perfect article is elsewhere. Instead, check out these great tips on how to feel more energised in the morning when you’ve got the time.

Use A Physical Or Digital Calendar

A calendar is a great place to start when it comes to managing personal time. Sure, it might sound perverse to schedule in engagements such as meeting your folks for lunch or tidying the house, but documenting your life chronologically like this can really help you manage it better. 

Doing so helps to keep your plans in a centralised place and to visually plan out important dates in the year – juggling those with more unassuming but no less vital appointments, like hanging out with your dog or practicing the piano. Or, watching your dog play piano…

Perhaps best is a physical calendar, placed in an easily visible, accessible location where you spend a lot of time – why not hang one opposite the toilet for instance, for you to ponder while you sit? Transposing all entries from your physical calendar into a digital format will help reinforce them in your memory, too. 

The Eisenhower Decision Matrix

The Eisenhower Decision Matrix is a useful tool that many top executives swear by. In short, it’s a way of prioritising tasks. The core principle behind the matrix is that tasks of ‘urgency’ and ‘importance’ deserve distinguishing in order to help you manage your time more effectively. 

Daily tasks are divided into columns – important and urgent, important but not urgent, not important but urgent, not important and not urgent – and are then prioritised in terms of what you should do yourself and what you should delegate or abandon. 

Though this decisions matrix is traditionally intended for workplace task management, it can also be applied to personal time management.

Schedule Important Dates Early

Always try to get the important dates in your calendar locked down well in advance of their happening so you can plan around those commitments. Whether it be boring but important admin jobs like paying your bills and servicing your car, or personal dates to remember like birthdays or anniversaries, schedule these in – physically and digitally – so you can easily plan around them throughout the year. 

Set Aside Time For Rest & Relaxation

While it’s important to plan your weekly activities and commitments, it can be as important to set aside time for a bit of R&R too, regardless of whether you use your weekends for a side hustle or your evenings for study.

Schedule this time deliberately so it doesn’t get sidelined by other things. Whether it’s just time to relax, or time spent on a hobby or interest that you love, including this time in your personal calendar can allow you to achieve a better work/life balance and make your downtime feel all the more earned. And that’s what it’s all about, right?

Put An End To Multitasking

Contrary to popular belief, multitasking is the enemy of productivity, whether you’re in the office or at home. Without placing a deserved, diligent focus on each task, you do yourself and the task completion a disservice. In short, everything just takes longer. 

Embrace the Japanese productivity focused philosophy of Kaizen; by completing each and every daily task with rigour and to your full potential, you will incrementally – even unknowingly – become the best version of yourself. Harness this, and your time management will become more effective.

Use Calendar Reminders

If you don’t have your physical calendar or diary with you at all times, it’s a good idea to set reminders on your phone or another device to ensure you never forget about events or engagements. 

You will find that most digital calendars or diaries will do this automatically, making it easy and convenient to remind yourself, but it’s often best to back this up with a manual input. 

Though we’re still a little suspicious of smart home hubs like the Amazon Echo Dot or the Samsung SmartThings Hub, they are superbly efficient for setting reminders, as the prompts are aural as well as visual. 

Just instruct Alexa to ‘remind me to check IDEAL Magazine at 8am every morning’ and she’ll do just that, with a courteous tone and a jolly little tune.  

The Pareto Principle

The Pareto Principle (sometimes referred to as the 80/20 rule) is a theory of time management that posits that the relationship between effort and result rarely correlates perfectly. As in, 20% or your activities may well account for 80% of your outcomes.

When considering the principle in terms of personal time management, a to-do list of ten items will likely involve two tasks that account for as much importance as the other eight.

This can help you write better to-do lists. Start by listing your day’s tasks from one to ten in order of the amount of effort required (1 being the least effort and 10 being the most). Next, think about the potential for positive results from these tasks; 10 having the greatest positive impact on your life all the way to 1 not even being worth getting out of bed for.

Finally, divide each task’s effort score by its results number, giving you a new priority ranking, with the tasks requiring the least effort and granting the largest reward prioritised first. The tasks that require a large amount of effort for minimum payoff can be delegated or removed entirely.

Group Things Together To Save Time

Another key concept of effective time management is sometimes referred to as ‘grouping’. In terms of your personal life, grouping outings like shopping, going to the bank and getting petrol into one single journey can help you to avoid having to go out more than once during the day to run errands, thus saving you time to attack other tasks head on.

If you are cleaning the house in increments, it simply takes longer; instead, do everything you planned grouped together into a single session until it’s complete. If you can, avoid taking too many breaks and procrastinating, freeing you up time later in the day for another task. And so on…

Visualise Your Time For Better Insights

One of the most effective ways to improve time management is to actually see how you’re spending your hours. Just as large organisations use data visualisation tools like Power BI process mining to understand their operational workflows, you can apply similar principles to track your personal time.

Start by logging your daily activities for a week – what you do, when you do it and for how long. You might be surprised at where your time actually goes. Those “quick” social media checks might add up to hours, whilst that project you’ve been meaning to finish may only get minutes of attention.

Tools as simple as a spreadsheet or as sophisticated as time-tracking apps can help you visualise these patterns. Look for the gaps between how you think you spend your time versus the reality. Much like how businesses discover inefficiencies through process analysis, you’ll likely spot several opportunities to reclaim lost hours.

Once you’ve identified these patterns, you can make more informed decisions about restructuring your day. Perhaps you’re most productive in the morning but have been wasting that energy on low-priority tasks. Or maybe you’ve discovered that certain activities always take longer than you allocate for them, causing a domino effect of delays.

Remember, you can’t manage what you don’t measure. A visual representation of your time gives you the objective data needed to make meaningful improvements.

The Connect-Then-Direct Principle

A powerful leadership principle that can be brilliantly applied to personal time management is the “Connect, Then Direct” approach, championed by successful business leaders worldwide.

At its core, this principle suggests spending time connecting with people and understanding situations before attempting to direct or manage them. In this approach, listening comes before instructing, and understanding precedes action.

When applied to personal time management, this principle encourages you to spend a bit of time connecting with yourself and your goals before directing your schedule. Start each week with a brief reflection on what truly matters to you right now. What are your current priorities? What would make this a fulfilling and productive week?

This approach prevents the common trap of being merely busy rather than productive. By connecting with your authentic goals first, you direct your time towards what genuinely matters rather than what merely demands attention.

Many executives who follow this philosophy use notebooks to jot down ideas and reflections, creating a tangible connection with their thoughts before taking action. You might try something similar – a quick journaling session on Sunday evening or Monday morning to connect with your intentions before directing your week’s schedule.

As the saying goes, “Listen more than you talk. Nobody learned anything by hearing themselves speak.” Similarly, you won’t learn how to best manage your time without first listening to what your mind, body and goals are telling you they need.

The Bottom Line

This thing’s all about developing better habits and training yourself through repetition to stick to them. Though better time management won’t happen overnight, you will learn to manage your personal life more effectively if you automate it with calendars, reminders and most importantly, repetition. 

Good luck, and now you’ve freed up a few hours, shall we meet up for a coffee?

10 Pieces Of Home Exercise Equipment To Give Your Whole Body A Workout

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10 Pieces Of Home Exercise Equipment To Give Your Whole Body A Workout

Are you tired of the same old gym routine? Want to switch things up and bring the workout to your home? Well, you’ve come to the right place…

No, not a new and exciting gym, silly, but rather, this handy guide on the best exercise equipment that’s both affordable and compact enough to fit into your home gym.

Investing in the right home exercise equipment can save you time and money, without that expensive gym membership and time-consuming trips to the local fitness centre. Having all of your gear within arm’s reach can also provide a more personalised and convenient workout experience, that’s for sure but from resistance bands to treadmills, there are lots of options to choose from and that choice can get a little overwhelming. 

But don’t just settle for any equipment, do your research and invest in high-quality products that will stand the test of time and give you the desired results. The key here is to invest in items that tone, build and strengthen more than one key muscle group in one go, and with that in mind, here are 10 pieces of home exercise equipment to give your whole body a workout.

TRX Cables

TRX cables are suspension-based items of training equipment that allows you to perform exercises using your body weight as resistance. They are a great way to burn calories and lose weight. TRX exercises work for multiple muscle groups at once, increasing your metabolism and leading to more calorie burn during and after your workout. 

A little different to resistance bands, which provide tension through the band itself, suspension training using TRX cables promotes functional strength and can help improve your balance, coordination, and core stability.

In terms of being good home gym equipment, TRX cables are a great option because they are lightweight, portable, and easy to set up. You can hang them from a door frame, a tree, or a pull-up bar, which you can use in different locations in your home. 

Additionally, TRX cables come with many exercise options; you can do cardio, strength training, and flexibility, all with one piece of equipment.

A Punch Bag

Investing in a punch bag as a piece of home exercise equipment can be another fast route to a multi-muscle workout for several reasons. It is a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness and burn calories, as it requires a lot of energy to strike the bag repeatedly. 

Additionally, it is a high-intensity, full-body workout that can help to improve strength, endurance, and power. A punch bag can also be a great stress reliever, helping the uer release pent-up aggression and frustration, making it a good option for those looking to improve their mental well-being. 

Punch bags are relatively inexpensive and take up minimal space, making them a great option for those looking to create a home gym on a budget.

Kettlebells

If you’re looking to find the right gym equipment in terms of something that’s both space-saving but all-encompassing, then kettlebells might well be your thing. These are cast-iron weights resembling a cannonball with a handle, perfect for dynamic, full-body workouts. Unlike traditional dumbbells, the kettlebell’s centre of mass extends beyond your hand, creating more challenging movements that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously. They’re brilliant for building functional strength, improving cardiovascular fitness and increasing flexibility.

Ideal for exercises like swings, Turkish get-ups and goblet squats, kettlebells provide an efficient workout in minimal time. Their compact size makes them easy to store, whilst their durability ensures they’ll be a long-lasting addition to your home gym. Consider investing in two or three kettlebells of varying weights to accommodate different exercises and progression levels.

A Lightweight Treadmill

A treadmill should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a reliable and effective piece of home workout equipment. Treadmills are a fantastic way to improve cardiovascular fitness, burn calories and boost weight loss all while being in the comfort of your own home.

Using a treadmill is straightforward, you simply need to adjust the speed, incline, and duration of your workout to suit your fitness level and goals. You can start with a slow walk and gradually increase the intensity as you build up your stamina.

A treadmill is also a great option for those looking to mix up their routine. You can change your workout’s speed, incline, and duration, add intervals, high-intensity sprints, or even walk or run on an incline to target different muscle groups.

Investing in a treadmill for your home gym is a wise decision for anyone looking to improve their overall fitness, manage weight, and achieve their health goals. 

With a treadmill, you’ll be able to get in a great workout whenever you want and never have to worry about the weather or if the gym is too crowded. 

Affordable, acclaimed treadmills for home gyms include the Nordic Track EXP 14i and the Weslo Cadence G 5.9i Folding Treadmill.

An Exercise Bike

A stationary bike is an excellent piece of home exercise equipment and can be a great investment for anyone looking to improve their fitness and overall health. 

One of the main advantages of having an exercise bike at home is the convenience it offers. You can use it at any time, fitting your workout into your schedule, and even use it to commute to work or run errands, increasing your daily physical activity. 

Exercise bikes represent a low-impact form of exercise, putting less stress on your joints than activities such as running, making it a great option for people who have joint pain or injuries. 

Additionally, they offer a great versatility, allowing you to do a wide range of activities such as leisurely rides, interval training, and hill climbs, allowing you to vary your workouts and target different areas of fitness. 

Lastly, exercise bikes are inexpensive and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective option for a home gym. To use a bike as a piece of home equipment, you can set it up in a comfortable and safe location, adjust the seat and handlebars to fit your body, and start pedalling. 

As you feel comfortable, you can increase the intensity and use a bike trainer to convert your bike into a stationary bike or use indoor cycling apps for a more interactive workout experience.

A Smart Trainer

For a similar workout but with added motivation, a smart trainer is an indoor bike trainer that allows you to connect your bicycle to a computer or mobile device, train and ride in virtual environments, or follow pre-set workout plans. 

To use a smart trainer, you’ll need to first connect it to your computer or mobile device via Bluetooth or ANT+ technology and then pair it with a training app or software such as Zwift, TrainerRoad, or The Sufferfest. 

You can select a virtual course or workout plan from there and start riding. A smart trainer can be a great investment for home equipment because it allows you to get a high-quality indoor cycling workout, regardless of the weather or time of day. 

It also offers a variety of workout options, including virtual rides, races, and training plans, which makes it more engaging and fun than traditional indoor cycling. 

Additionally, smart trainers can provide accurate and detailed data on your performance, which can help you track your progress and adjust your training. 

Adjustable Free Weights

If you’re looking for a versatile and effective piece of home workout equipment, adjustable free weights are an excellent choice. 

These weights allow you to adjust the weight to suit your fitness level and can be used for exercises to target different muscle groups. They are a great option for those looking to build strength, tone their muscles and burn calories.

Adjustable free weights are incredibly easy to use; you can add or remove weight plates to change the weight of the dumbbells. And you can use them for exercises such as bicep curls, shoulder presses, tricep extensions, rows, lunges, and deadlifts. 

This means you can work on your upper body, lower body, and core, all with one piece of equipment. Adjustable free weights are a great investment for anyone looking to improve their fitness and build strength from the comfort of their own home. 

With adjustable free weights, the possibilities are endless, and the results will be undeniable. So, ladies, don’t wait any longer; invest in some adjustable free weights today and get ready to see the results for yourself!

Medicine Ball

A medicine ball is a weighted sphere that provides versatile resistance training for your whole body. The weighted ball allows you to perform explosive movements like throws and slams that engage your core, upper and lower body simultaneously. They’re particularly effective for rotational exercises that mimic everyday movements and sports-specific actions.

Medicine balls come in various weights, typically 1-10kg, making them suitable for all fitness levels. Their compact size requires minimal storage space, whilst their simple design makes them accessible for beginners. Use a medicine ball for Russian twists, wall throws or squat-to-presses to add variety and intensity to your home workout routine.

Pull-Up Bar

A door-mounted pull-up bar offers an exceptional upper body workout with minimal investment and space requirements. It targets your back, arms and core, helping to improve posture and upper body strength. Unlike many other pieces of equipment, a pull-up bar allows you to work against your entire body weight, making it highly effective for building functional strength.

Most models can be easily installed in standard doorframes without permanent fixtures, and many offer multiple grip positions to target different muscle groups. Beyond traditional pull-ups, you can use it for hanging leg raises, knee tucks and assisted bodyweight rows. For beginners, resistance bands can be attached to provide assistance until full pull-ups are achievable.

BOSU Ball

Are you looking to take your workout routine to the next level? Look no further than the BOSU ball! This incredible fitness equipment perfectly combines a stability ball and a flat platform, making it a versatile and effective tool for improving balance, coordination, core strength, and stability. 

The possibilities are endless regarding exercises you can do with a BOSU ball. From lunges, push-ups, planks, and squats to adding an extra challenge to traditional exercises by performing them on the unstable surface of this ubiquitous, UFO-like piece of kit. 

Investing in a BOSU ball for your home gym is an investment in yourself and your fitness journey. Not only is it versatile and can be used for a wide range of exercises, but it’s also easy to use and compact, making it easy to store and transport. 

If you’re ready to take your workout routine to the next level and see real results, then a BOSU ball is a must-have for your home gym!

The Bottom Line

When choosing which equipment to invest in, it’s important to consider your personal fitness goals, budget, and the amount of space you have available.

With the right equipment and a consistent workout routine, you can achieve your fitness goals and improve your overall health and well-being from the comfort of your own home.

Hair: How To Keep Yours Fuller & Healthier For Longer

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Hair: How To Keep Yours Fuller & Healthier For Longer

It’s one of life’s most defining, derailing moments; the realisation as you scrutinise yourself in the mirror that your once luscious locks are in decline. It happens to the best (and majority) of us. That’s not to say that realising you’re thinning up top should elicit a shrug of acceptance and the order of several stylish hats on Amazon.

Oh no. There are ways and means which you can deploy to have your hair looking as luxurious as possible, flowing and flourishing to its full potential and beyond. These are those; here’s how to keep your hair fuller and healthier for longer.

Get To The Root Of The Problem

Ever get the feeling that we’re all linked, intimately and inextricably? Yep, the same could be said for your body, mind and soul. Nope, we’re not going to go all new age hippy on you and recommend a course of microdosing foraged berries. Although, come to think of it, that wouldn’t do any harm.

Instead, what we’re trying to say is that what you put into your body, and how you look after your mind, has a distinct effect on the way you look.

Indeed, your hair is an outward sign of inside health; stress, a poor diet, hormonal changes – all of these things can trigger hair thinning and loss. Strong, full hair has long been seen as a sign of fertility, youth, vitality, and good health. Getting to the root of the problem, and following a prevention rather than cure mantra, is the most effective path to fuller hair.

This all starts with your diet. The cells that make up every single strand of hair need nourishment. Though, of course, you should endeavour to eat a nutrient rich diet full of diverse proteins, vitamins and minerals for best results all over the body, it’s said that protein rich foods like chicken, eggs, broccoli, cheese and nuts are particularly beneficial for your hair. 

Take Care Of Your Hair

Without wishing the reiterate it, we’ve noticed some of you weren’t listening at the back, so repeat we shall; prevention is better than cure. You’re never going to have fuller looking hair if you don’t take care of it in the first place. Once it begins to thin, there are few options left to get your hair looking thick and full again. Better to take care of it to prevent thinning occurring. 

Heat is hair’s worst enemy. However many of us (IDEAL included) can’t imagine life without our hair straighteners and curling tongs, it’s sensible to use them less, and at a lower temperature if possible, to avoid damaging your hair. 

You should also try to minimise rough, enthusiastic towel drying, which can destroy the hair’s cuticles.  In terms of products, use a thickening or volumising shampoo and conditioner – these usually contain fewer ingredients so don’t weigh the hair down as much. Some consider supplements, too; B Vitamins and zinc, in particular, are thought to stimulate hair follicle health.

Give The Illusion Of Heft With Dye

Yes, hairdressers are magicians, so skilled with the scissors and small talk, equally. Turn to them with a request for a fuller head of hair, and they may well be able to grant your wish.

In particular, ask your hairdresser for thickening highlight’s, which give that illusion of heft and fullness that we’re looking for here. Highlighting hair adds the look of depth to strands, giving dimension and lusciousness where single toned hair would otherwise tend to fall flat. 

Another trick is to keep the roots of your hair a darker shade to the rest of your locks. This helps the hair look fuller and solid at the scalp. Also, the more of your scalp you see, the thinner your hair will look. You can fill it in with a colouring spray; here at IDEAL we’re huge fans of Bumble and Bumble Hair Powder. 

Consider A Treatment Or Transplant

Though it might sound drastic at first, hair transplants are actually becoming increasingly common (and as a result, more affordable), particularly in young men who are suffering from hereditary or male pattern baldness. 

Of course, undergoing any kind of procedure is not a decision to be taken lightly, and it should be noted that a person loses on average 100 strands of hair a day. Some hair loss, then, is inevitable and occurs every day and to everyone, but if it’s affecting your self-esteem markedly and you’ve exhausted preventative measures, then a hair transplant could be for you.

One of the most common procedures is the FUE technique – which uses existing healthy hair from a donor site on the scalp to restore fullness to other parts of the head – is the most effective, comprehensive procedure currently available, leaving no linear scarring or stitches and the most natural look.

If this sounds like something you’re seeking, do make sure you do your due diligence regarding your hair transplant practitioner prior to and during a consultation (more of that in a moment). Be aware of hair transplant side effects, too, which can include swelling, pain, and discomfort in the days following the procedure, temporary numbness in the treated areas, infection (though rare when performed by qualified practitioners), bleeding, scarring (minimal with FUE compared to older techniques), shock loss (temporary shedding of transplanted hair), and in some cases, suboptimal aesthetic results if the procedure isn’t properly planned or executed.

UK Regulation and Accreditation

In the UK, hair transplant surgery is regulated as a medical procedure, though the landscape has some important considerations:

  1. Care Quality Commission (CQC): Any clinic offering hair transplants should be registered with the CQC, which regulates all healthcare services in England. You can check a clinic’s registration on the CQC website.
  2. General Medical Council Registration: The surgeon performing your procedure should be registered with the GMC. Ideally, they should also be on the Specialist Register in a relevant field such as plastic surgery or dermatology.
  3. Professional Associations: Look for memberships in respected organizations such as:
  4. Qualifications: The surgeon should have specific training and experience in hair transplantation. Don’t hesitate to ask about their qualifications and how many similar procedures they’ve performed.
  5. Consultation Process: A reputable clinic will offer a thorough consultation before any procedure, discussing your medical history, expectations, and potential outcomes. Be wary of clinics that rush this process or pressure you into making a decision.
  6. Red Flags: Be cautious of clinics that offer significantly lower prices than the market average, guarantee specific results, or use high-pressure sales tactics. These could indicate substandard care or unrealistic promises.
  7. Overseas Clinics: Many UK residents travel abroad for hair transplants due to lower costs. If considering this route, research is even more crucial. Look for international accreditation and be aware that follow-up care might be challenging if complications arise after returning home.

Before committing to any procedure, request to see before-and-after photos of previous patients, ideally with similar hair types and patterns to your own. Consider seeking multiple consultations to compare approaches and build confidence in your final decision.

Or, Simply Use Some Stylist’s Tricks

If a hair transplant isn’t right for you, feels a little too drastic or a lot too expensive, then there are plenty of tricks used by stylists which you could consider for making your hair appear thicker:

  • Short cuts are best: Thin or fine hair can look stringy and appear even thinner because it’s weighed down. So opt for short or shoulder length hair to give the allusion of lusciousness.
  • Dry shampoo saviour: For instant volume, spray some dry shampoo along on your roots, immediately creating volume. And if you’re brunette, consider using a tinted brown dry shampoo instead of the traditional white. 
  • It’s all about the volume: There are plenty of volumising and thickening products on the market which can give your locks a lift. 
  • Extend it: Turn a negative into a positive. Hair extensions are another way to draw attention away from thinning hair and onto your flowing locks instead.

The Bottom Line

Though our hair certainly isn’t who we are, its fullness or lack thereof can have an impact on our self-confidence. If yours is something you care about, it pays to take preventative measures to ensure your locks stay luscious for longer.

Soothing Soreness: 7 Exercises for Muscle & Joint Pain Relief

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Soothing Soreness: 7 Exercises for Muscle & Joint Pain Relief

Muscle and joint pain can be a significant hindrance to daily life, making even simple tasks seem daunting. Whether it’s due to a chronic condition, overexertion, or the natural aging process, finding ways to stay active while managing discomfort is crucial. Exercise, counterintuitive as it may seem, can be a potent remedy. 

But not just any exercise will do; it’s about choosing the right type and intensity to help alleviate pain rather than exacerbate it. With that in mind, here are some gentle yet effective exercises designed to keep you moving and reduce muscle and joint pain.

Water Workouts: Buoyancy For Better Movement

Aquatic exercises are a godsend for those with joint and muscle pain. The water’s buoyancy reduces the impact on joints, making movements smoother and less painful. Try these water-based activities:

  • Aqua Jogging: Mimic the motion of running in the shallow end of the pool. The water resistance adds a gentle strength component without the harsh impact of traditional jogging.
  • Water Aerobics: Join a class or follow a video at home. The rhythmic movements improve joint flexibility and can be tailored to your comfort level.
  • Swimming: Opt for strokes that feel comfortable and keep your movements smooth. The backstroke and breaststroke are often recommended for those with joint issues.

Stretching: The Foundation Of Flexibility

Stretching is essential for maintaining flexibility and can provide relief from muscle tightness and joint pain. Focus on gentle stretches, holding each for 15-30 seconds:

  • Yoga: Gentle yoga styles like Hatha or Iyengar can increase flexibility and strength with minimal stress on the joints.
  • Tai Chi: This ancient martial art promotes balance, flexibility, and calm, with slow, flowing movements that are perfect for all fitness levels.
  • Dynamic Stretching: Incorporate slow, controlled leg swings, arm swings, and torso twists to warm up your muscles and joints before engaging in more strenuous activities.

Strength Training: Building Supportive Muscles

Strengthening the muscles around painful joints can provide better support and reduce pain. Use light weights or resistance bands, and focus on high repetitions with low resistance:

  • Leg Lifts: Great for strengthening the thigh muscles, which support the knees.
  • Arm Curls: Using light dumbbells or a resistance band, these can help strengthen the biceps and improve elbow joint stability.
  • Wall Push-Ups: A less intense version of traditional push-ups that can help build shoulder and chest strength without putting too much pressure on the wrists and elbows.

Low-Impact Cardio: Keep The Heart Pumping

Cardiovascular exercise is important for overall health but can be challenging with muscle and joint pain. Low-impact options can get your heart rate up without the harsh impact:

  • Walking: Perhaps the simplest form of exercise, walking can be easily adjusted to your comfort level. Use walking poles for added stability and upper body engagement.
  • Cycling: Stationary or outdoor cycling is gentle on the joints, especially the knees and hips, while providing a good aerobic workout.
  • Elliptical Trainer: This machine offers a good cardio workout with minimal joint stress, as the feet never leave the pedals.

Pilates: Core Strength & Stability

Pilates focuses on controlled movements that strengthen the core muscles, which are vital for supporting the spine and maintaining good posture:

  • The Hundred: A breathing exercise that also works the core and improves circulation.
  • Pelvic Tilts: These can help strengthen abdominal muscles and relieve lower back pain.
  • Leg Circles: A low-impact way to strengthen the hips and improve range of motion.

Isometric Exercises: Strength Without Movement

Isometric exercises involve contracting your muscles without visible movement of the joint. As Toc Docs, an orthopedic clinic in Knoxville, TN, tell us, these exercises can be particularly beneficial for those with joint pain, as they allow for muscle engagement without straining the joints:

  • Wall Sits: Stand with your back against a wall, then slide down into a seated position with your knees at a 90-degree angle. Hold this position for 20-30 seconds. This exercise strengthens the quadriceps without putting pressure on the knees.
  • Planks: Lie face down, then lift your body so you’re supported by your forearms and toes, keeping your body in a straight line. Hold this position for as long as you can maintain good form. Planks are excellent for building core strength, which can help alleviate lower back pain and even combat heart disease.

Balance Training: Stability & Coordination

Improving your balance can reduce the risk of falls and the subsequent strain on your muscles and joints. Balance exercises can also strengthen the muscles that help stabilise your joints:

  • Heel-to-Toe Walk: Place the heel of one foot just in front of the toes of the opposite foot each time you take a step. Your heel and toes should touch or almost touch. Focus on a spot ahead of you to keep steady as you walk 20 steps.
  • Single-Leg Stands: Stand on one leg while holding onto a sturdy chair or counter if needed. Hold the position for 10-30 seconds, then switch to the other leg. This exercise strengthens the leg muscles and engages the core, improving overall stability.

Some Simple Pointers For Exercising With Muscle & Joint Pain

  • Warm-Up Properly: Always start with a gentle warm-up to prepare your muscles and joints for exercise.
  • Listen to Your Body: If an exercise causes pain, stop immediately. Pain is a signal from your body to take it easy.
  • Stay Consistent: Regular, gentle exercise can help reduce pain over time, but it’s important to be consistent.
  • Cool Down: Finish your workout with a cool-down period and some additional stretching to
  • Infrared Heat Therapy can help soothe tired muscles and joints. As the team at saunny.com tell us, infrared sauna blankets use far-infrared technology to deliver deep, penetrating warmth that may aid recovery without requiring you to leave the house.
  • Consult a Professional: Before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have chronic pain, consult with a healthcare provider or a physical therapist. This is particularly important for individuals with specific inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, or fibromyalgia, where exercise programs may need to be carefully tailored to address both pain management and disease-specific symptoms.

The Bottom Line

Incorporating these exercises into your routine can help you manage muscle and joint pain more effectively. As with any exercise program, it’s important to start slowly and increase the intensity and duration of your workouts gradually. 

Always consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new exercise regimen, especially if you have an existing health condition or experience chronic pain. With the right approach, exercise can be a valuable tool in managing pain and improving your quality of life.

10 Essential Itinerary Items For Your Holiday To Lanzarote

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10 Essential Itinerary Items For Your Holiday To Lanzarote
Ideal for a bucket list break on Fire Island…

Few places enthral quite like Lanzarote. The third most populous Canary Islands, Lanzarote is famed for its extensive, sweeping beaches and consistent hot, summery weather. Most of all though, it’s well known as a geological marvel, with 300 volcanic cones (it’s nicknamed the Land of Volcanoes), breath-taking landscapes and sweeping valleys.

Of course, there’s much to do away from the natural world too, with bars, restaurants and good vibes aplenty. If you’re wondering how best to fill your days on the island, then read on; our 10 essential itinerary items for your holiday to Lanzarote.

Jameos Del Agua, Lanzarote’s Most Famous Son

César Manrique, an architect, activist and Lanzarote’s most famous son, has well and truly left his mark on the island – in the best possible way. Any trip here should involve (deliberately or inadvertently) taking in some of his work, as it forms the backbone of most of the main tourist attractions around.

The Jameos Del Agua, a remnant cave network of a dormant volcanic tube which has now been complemented with lush, green gardens quaint pools and a fully flourished museum, is perhaps the most well known. It’s this juxtaposition of stillness and calm with a more fully flourished, vibrant setting that defines the cherished architect’s worked. This one really needs to be seen to be believed.

Make A Night Of It In Puerto Del Carmen

Photo by Lothar Boris Piltz on Unsplash

Puerto Del Carmen serves as the main tourist hub on the island and the focus of any serious partying on Lanzarote holidays, so if you’re keen to get stuck into some local delicacies and maybe even a cheeky drink or two ‘on the strip’, then this is the place to do it.

Let’s talk about the food. ‘Wrinkled’ potatoes are ubiquitous in restaurants here; delicious too, and don’t let the name put you off. They’re simply boiled in very salty water until their skin wrinkles and served with a glorious, spicy ‘mojo’ dipping sauce. As with any island with a self-respecting food culture, seafood is big news; anything cooked a la plancha (a metal plated grill) is guaranteed to be good, but we’ll usually order octopus (pulpo) if it’s on the menu.

Once your hunger is sated, hit the bars. Jester’s is the island’s rowdiest and latest-closing, but for a more refined affair, check out Santai Marina Lounge.

View Volcanoes At Timanfaya National Park

Seeing as they’re the most famous inhabitant of the island, it’s only fair to show Lanzarote’s volcanoes some love while you’re here. At Timanfaya National Park, you can embark on camel rides that chart a course right the way across the volcanoes. Fear not, the volcanoes have lain dormant since 1824 – the camels are pretty docile, too – and are in no danger of erupting anytime in the near future.

Mirador Del Rio, A 500 Metre High Cafe

The Canary Island’s northern tip is home to a hugely impressive cafe which was carved into the summit of a 474-metre high cliff to impress guests. This should certainly be part of your schedule. Another of Manrique’s influences that remain today, titled the Mirador Del Rio, it’s a spectacle and a half, with fantastic, panoramic views to admire while you refresh and replenish.

Playa Blanca, Home To The Island’s Best Beaches

Playa Blanca is Lanzarote’s southernmost town, and home to the best beaches on the island. Time to soak up some rays and have a dip we think; just don’t spend too much time in the water or you’ll come out looking like those papas arrugadas we mentioned earlier. The beach of the same name as the town (literally translating as White Beach) is a good place to start, but also check out Playa Flamingo and Dorada to keep things interesting.

Both of Lanzarote’s two Michelin-rated restaurants are found here, too; the traditional La Cocina de Colacho and the creative, experimental Kamezí Deli & Bistró. Hey, why not check out both? You are on holiday after all.

Explore The Cueva De Los Verdes 

Photo by Sebastian Kowalski on Unsplash

Another of Lanzarote’s natural wonders, the Cueva de los Verdes is a part of the same lava tube that includes Jameos Del Agua. This underground cave system offers a unique experience with its eerie lighting and acoustics. It’s a less frequented spot, which makes it a hidden gem for those looking to escape the more crowded tourist areas. The guided tours reveal the history and geology of this fascinating formation, and there’s even a secret that awaits visitors at the heart of the cave – but no spoilers here!

Discover The Charco De Los Clicos 

Photo by Marian Florinel Condruz on Unsplash

Located near the small fishing village of El Golfo is the Charco de los Clicos, also known as the Green Lagoon. This striking green lake is set in a black volcanic beach and is separated from the sea by a narrow strip of sand. The lagoon’s colour comes from the algae that inhabit its waters, and it makes for a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the red cliffs and the azure ocean. It’s a perfect spot for photographers and those looking for a serene place to reflect.

Visit The Lanzarote Wine Region 

Photo by Annamaria Kupo on Unsplash

Lanzarote’s unique volcanic soil has given rise to a thriving wine region, with the La Geria valley being the epicentre. The landscape here is dotted with semi-circular walls protecting the vines from the wind, creating a moon-like terrain. Sampling the local Malvasia wines is a must-do, and many bodegas offer tastings and tours. Bodega La Geria is one of the most popular, but for a more intimate experience, seek out some of the smaller, family-run vineyards.

Teguise Market’s Trinket Shopping

The town of Teguise hosts Lanzarote’s largest market every Sunday, where you can find everything from local crafts and food to live music and street performers. It’s a bustling atmosphere that captures the essence of Lanzarote’s culture. While it’s not exactly a hidden gem, arriving early can give you a more authentic experience before the crowds arrive. Don’t miss the chance to pick up some unique souvenirs, such as traditional Canarian pottery or aloe vera products.

Relax At The Natural Pools Of Punta Mujeres 


For a tranquil day to finish off with (or, to finish you off…), head to the natural pools of Punta Mujeres on the northeast coast. These sea-water pools offer a safe and unique swimming experience, away from the waves of the open sea. The pools are a favourite among locals, and you’ll find fewer tourists here, making it a peaceful retreat. There are several pools of varying sizes and depths, and the surrounding area is equipped with sunbathing spots and ladders for easy access to the water.

You know what? We think we might stay here a while…

South Tyrol: Italy’s Best Kept Secret & Wellness Destination 

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South Tyrol: Italy’s Best Kept Secret & Wellness Destination 

Ideal for experiencing a unique blend of Italian dolce vita and Austrian Gemütlichkeit…

Lying at the feet of the majestic Dolomites, South Tyrol – or Alto Adige as it’s also known – is a unique blend of Italian charm and Austrian heritage, a place where Alpine terrain meets  a certain kind of Mediterranean sensibility. Indeed, sharing its borders with Austria, the culture of South Tyrol is as much Germanic as it is Italian. 

The area was part of Austria-Hungary before becoming part of Italy after World War I. Here German is spoken more widely than Italian and people are just as likely to dig into a bowl of dumplings than a plate of pasta, a square of flammkuchen often preferred to a slice of pizza. This cultural fusion is evident in the architecture, traditions, and languages of the region, and it’s a fascinating fusion indeed. 

Seasons Change

The best thing about South Tyrol is that it’s a destination for all seasons. In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland with some of the best skiing in the Alps. Come spring, the meadows burst into bloom. In summer, when the region basks in a warm Mediterranean climate, it’s perfect for hiking and exploring the high-altitude trails. Then, autumn brings the Törggelen tradition, where locals celebrate the harvest with new wine and roasted chestnuts. 

South Tyrol’s Towns & Cities

The rural towns and villages of South Tyrol are postcard-perfect, with their cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and flower-adorned balconies. Here, smaller villages like Castelrotto and Ortisei in Val Gardena are gateways to the Dolomites and retain a strong sense of local tradition.

The region’s capital, Bolzano, is a lively city where Gothic churches stand alongside palm-fringed boulevards, and where one can enjoy a cappuccino in a piazza before heading off to hike in the Dolomites. Merano, with its Art Nouveau buildings and thermal baths, offers a blend of old-world charm and modern wellness culture.  

Indeed, while South Tyrol has long been a destination for skiers, in the last few years it has become a modern wellness destination with alpine spas sprouting up in its highlands. If you’re looking for a wellness hotel in South Tyrol, then you’ll be spoilt for choice. Sounds dreamy, don’t it? 

Even more dreamily, and despite its obvious allure, South Tyrol remains relatively undiscovered by the tourist masses, making it Italy’s best-kept secret. After a recent visit to the region, we were absolutely enamoured with it. We think you will be too. 

So, without further ado, here are some of the best things to do in South Tyrol.

Visit An Alpine Spa – A Revived Tradition In The Region

Thermal baths, such as those in the historic spa town of Merano, have long been a haven for health-seekers, since the 19th century, when they were at the height of popularity. Today, the spa tradition of the region is being revived and South Tyrol is dotted with luxurious spa resorts and wellness centres that harness the healing powers of the local landscape, offering the opportunity for people to bathe in its mineral-rich waters once again. 

The region’s pristine environment and fresh mountain air provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. The Merano Thermal Baths are a modern wellness oasis, while the Aqua Dome in Längenfeld integrates natural hot springs with futuristic architecture. Many wellness retreats in South Tyrol are nestled in tranquil settings surrounded by forests and mountains, providing a serene escape from everyday life.

Treatments often incorporate local products like mountain herbs, Alpine salts, and South Tyrolean apples, known for their antioxidant properties. From yoga retreats to detox programs and holistic spa experiences, South Tyrol offers a diverse range of wellness options to cater to every need.

For a more intimate setting, the Hotel Adler’s private mountain spa in Ortisei provides exclusive treatments with stunning views. Even better, Hotel Seeleiten, another spa hotel in Tyrol we’re particularly fond of, has two private beaches on the warmest bathing lake in the Alps, Lake Caldaro.  

Or, if dining well is something you particularly value in a holiday, then the Romantik Hotel has a double Michelin-starred restaurant from the acclaimed chef Peter Girtler. Speaking of food…

A Gastronomic Destination

While the locals may not see eye-to eye when it comes to which language should be spoken in the region, South Tyroleans have formed something of a united front when it comes to the region’s distinct cuisine. 

Rich with vineyards, apple orchards and mountaintop farms, South Tyrol is one of the country’s most underrated regions, and boasts one of the highest number of Michelin stars per capita in the whole of Italy. Yep, you’ll be fed well after a day of hiking here. 

Here, menus full of locally sourced, hyper-seasonal ingredients are more than just a buzzword. Restaurants go by the ethos ‘cook the mountain’, where top quality produce is sourced from the mountains and foraged ingredients like Alpine sow-thistle, Iceland moss, Mugo pine shoots, woodruff and lichen all regularly appear on dishes.

South Tyrol is a gourmet destination to be sure. Variations of knödel (bread dumplings) sit alongside gnocchi, whilst apple strudel is enjoyed as much as gelato, and cups of espresso and shots of schnapps both punctuate meals. It’s this fusion of cultures that allows the chefs of South Tyrol to experiment and have fun, making it a unique and exciting destination for anyone who likes to eat out. 

The South Tyrolean Wine Road

The wine in South Tyrol is some of the best in the world, thanks to the region’s unique microclimate and fertile soils. With over 300 days of sunshine a year combined with cool breezes from the mountains, the conditions are perfect for producing a wide variety of high-quality wines. Here, the wine grown in the mountains is biodynamic and low intervention, bringing extraordinary nuance of flavour and complexity on the nose. 

Wine enthusiasts should not miss the vineyard-lined Strada del Vino (Route of Wine) just south of Bolzano, where you can visit vineyards and discover local varietals such as the robust reds Schiava and Lagrein, and the aromatic whites like Gewürztraminer and Pinot Grigio. Each glass encapsulates the character of the region, from the crisp alpine notes to the warm Mediterranean influences. It’s pure time and place in a glass.

The Splendour Of The Dolomites

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in the world. These pale mountains are renowned for their surreal beauty, especially at sunrise and sunset when they glow with an enchanting pink hue, a phenomenon known as ‘Enrosadira’.

Hiking, skiing, and mountain biking are just a few of the ways to immerse yourself in the natural splendour of South Tyrol’s mountains (more on that in a moment). However, one of the best ways to see the Dolomites is via the Renon/Ritten cable car, which you can take from Bolzano near the train station.

Photo by Chris Henry on Unsplash

A Playground For Outdoor Enthusiasts

For those with a passion for the great outdoors, South Tyrol is nothing short of a playground for adventure and exploration. The region’s varied landscape offers a whole host of activities to suit every type of outdoor enthusiast. During the warmer months, hikers and climbers can traverse the extensive network of trails that crisscross the Dolomites, ranging from leisurely walks through verdant valleys to challenging ascents up rugged peaks. 

For a truly iconic trek, the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop offers stunning views of the three towering peaks. The Seiser Alm (Alpe di Siusi) is Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow and provides a less challenging but equally rewarding hike. For a unique experience, the Pyramids of Plata near Percha are a natural wonder not to be missed.

Cyclists and mountain bikers will find a paradise in the rolling hills and steep mountain passes, with routes that cater to both road cycling aficionados and off-road thrill-seekers. The well-maintained cycle paths along the valleys are perfect for family outings, while the Dolomiti Superski area, which transforms into a mountain biking haven in the summer, offers challenging terrain for more experienced riders. 

The Adige Valley Cycle Path is a favourite for families and leisure cyclists, while the Sellaronda MTB Track Tour challenges mountain bikers with its steep climbs and descents. For a scenic ride, the Dolomites Bike Day event allows cyclists to ride on roads closed to traffic, surrounded by the majestic peaks.

Water sports enthusiasts are not left out, as the region’s lakes and rivers provide idyllic settings for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The calm waters of Lake Resia and Lake Caldaro are particularly popular for such activities, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

In the winter, South Tyrol becomes a premier ski destination, with its well-groomed slopes catering to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Val Gardena is a highlight, with access to the Sella Ronda ski circuit. Alta Badia is perfect for foodies who want to combine skiing with gourmet experiences at mountain huts. Meanwhile, Plan de Corones (Kronplatz) is known for its modern lifts and panoramic views. For those seeking alternative winter activities, the region offers snowshoeing, tobogganing, and cross-country skiing, allowing visitors to enjoy the winter wonderland at a different pace.

Read: 9 of the best European ski resorts for non-skiers

Castles & Museums

Castle Tyrol near Merano offers a deep dive into the region’s history, while Trostburg Castle in the Isarco Valley features a fascinating castle museum. The South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bolzano is where you can meet Ötzi, the 5,300-year-old Iceman.

Getting There and Around

Fly into Innsbruck or Verona from the UK and take a train or bus to South Tyrol, which takes around two hours from either direction. The Mobilcard provides unlimited public transport, making it easy to explore without a car. For those driving, scenic routes like the Great Dolomites Road offer breathtaking views.

The Bottom Line

South Tyrol is a region that offers more than just a typical Italian holiday. It is a place where you can experience a unique cultural fusion, indulge in exceptional cuisine, and explore some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes Europe has to offer.

Whether you’re an adventurer, a foodie, or someone looking to soak up the local culture, South Tyrol is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience. It’s Italy’s best-kept secret, but perhaps not for much longer – the allure of South Tyrol is too captivating to remain hidden away.

The Best Prawn Dishes In London

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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The Best Prawn Dishes In London

So, you’re wondering where to eat prawns in London? Or, perhaps you’re planning a crawl of the city’s best prawn dishes? Well, you’ve come to the right place…

These little critters have brought smiles to us Brits for decades – from prawn sandwiches and a packet of skips in our lunch box to the half pints of prawns that have graced the menu of traditional pubs since before we can remember. 

But with so many international cuisines so thoroughly represented in the capital, we’re now able to enjoy these beloved crustaceans in more ways than we could ever imagine. 

A caveat of sorts (or, at least, a preparation for disappointment); while some of the dishes on this list are restaurant signatures and never off the menu, some are seasonal specials that you’ll only find in British prawn season, which is generally between September and January. Do check ahead of time if you’re absolutely intent on getting your prawn fix!

Which, since you’re here with us, we can only assume you are. Without further ado, then, here are some of the best prawn dishes in London.

Carabineros at Lisboeta

Ideal for enormous, deeply flavoured red prawns…

Ask any prawn fan where in the world they would most recommend eating the things, and we bet you a prawn dumpling they say Portugal. We certainly would.  

One of our all time favourite restaurants to feast on prawns is Lisbon’s Cervejaria Ramiro, where XXL carabineros are served each with enough head juice to fill a coffee mug. Indeed, one of our editors has been there twice in a row for his birthday, in consecutive years. It’s an obsession, we can’t deny… 

These scarlett sensations are unbelievably robust in flavour, and so highly sought after that they rarely make it out of Portugal. However, sometimes, Lisboeta in Charlotte Street is lucky enough to get their hands on them. 

Seafood this spectacular is hard to come by, especially in London. So sweet and delicate are these jewels of the sea, there is little need to fuck with the formula. Here at Lisboeta – as they do at Ramiro – the prawns are simply salted and grilled. They’re perfect.

Eating the prawns here is the messiest, most marvellous kind of fun that any seafood lover could have. It’s an experience you need to share. So, grab the love of your life (who is obviously a prawn lover, too), order a plateful, a bottle of vinho verde, plenty of napkins, and meet eyes lovingly as you suck on those prawn heads and make suspect groaning noises. 

Address: 30 Charlotte St., London W1T 2NG 

Website:  lisboeta.co.uk

Read: Where to eat the best seafood in Lisbon

Prawn Tempura at Koya Soho 

Ideal for the most perfect tempura this side of Tokyo…

Still with one foot in Portugal. did you know that tempura-style batter is thought to have been brought to Japan by Portuguese traders in the 16th century? 

The word tempura itself is believed to come from the Portuguese language, as in “Temporas” – or “Ember Days” – where fried fish was consumed in place of meat when Catholics were fasting. 

Like many things, the Japanese have turned battering and deep fat frying into an art form. Indeed, in Japan, tempura is well established as a genre of high-end cuisine in its own right, and the Japanese have taught the world how to master their tempura technique. 

Now, we’re not tempura masters, but we’ve eaten a lot of prawns covered in crispy coatings – and we can safely say that the prawn tempura at Koya Soho is the best we’ve ever had, demonstrative of some serious tekkers and a love for this humble craft. Pale, with an extraordinarily lacy and light, crisp coating, these extra large tempura prawns have a shatteringly satisfying crunch. They are so uniform in colour, so perfect, that we could talk about them all day. That would lead to one hell of a word count, however…

Anyway, these guys can be added to any of Koya’s udon dishes, or taken simply as part of a tempura plate, served with a dipping sauce that seasons the tempura just right. If you’re after prawn tempura in London, there really is no competition. 

Koya gets through hundreds of prawns a day, and to minimise waste, they used to serve up the heads, deep-fried, with beer. Sadly, that’s now stopped being the case at Koya, but if it’s head you’re after (get your mind out of the gutter), then we have the ideal place…

Address: 50 Frith St, London W1D 4SQ 

Website: koya.co.uk

Crispy Prawn Heads at Kolae 

Ideal for London’s latest hype snack…

An irresistibly crunchy snack that you’ll see on menus in southern Thailand, the crispy prawn heads at Kolae, the follow-up to critically acclaimed Som Saa in Spitalfields, are commendable in their simplicity. Shells already prized of their head juices – so, really, just the shells – are deep-fried and showered in with deep-fried turmeric and tiny cloves of skin-on, sweet-as-you-like Thai garlic in the style of Southern Thailand’s pla tod kamin, before being piled high on a plate.

Needing only a wedge of lime (and an ice-cold beer) to see them off, you will be ordering a second, and a third, round of these guys. No guilt there; a plate is keenly priced at just £5. Go on then, we’ll have a fourth…

If you’re ever in Bangkok and are craving crispy prawn heads, we once had them at Bann Ice – one of Bangkok’s best Southern restaurants. Go do the same!

Oh, and while you’re here it would be silly not to come back for the kolae tiger prawns with calamansi lime – a dish available as part of the restaurant’s set menus.

Image via @kolae_london

Address: 6 Park St, London SE1 9AB

Website: kolae.com 

Red Prawn Heads at Lisboeta 

Ideal for head juices galore…

After another antennae-to-tail eating experience? Then head back to Lisboeta (that is, if you ever left) and order some more prawn heads. Here, red prawn heads are grilled to a gentle char and are the perfect accompaniment to the restaurant’s arroz de marisco – red prawn and cuttlefish rice. 

The juice/brains act as a final garnish, designed to be squeezed sultrily over the seafood rice – or, to take one straight to your mouth and take a satisfyingly slurp from the head. Either way, this is prawn-based nirvana, make no mistake.

Address: 30 Charlotte St., London W1T 2NG 

Website:  lisboeta.co.uk

English Prawns at Prawn On The Lawn

Ideal for a proper prawn party (when in season)…

Despite the name, they don’t always have prawns on the menu at Prawn on the Lawn. Which, actually, should be reassuring; you’d hope somewhere so hopelessly devoted to the love of prawn would only serve the damn things when they’re at their best. And so it is…

Because when they do have these most delicious of crustaceans on the menu, it’s a special occasion, and one to be celebrated. English prawns are only fished for four months of the year on the South Coast of Cornwall, using traditional prawn pots. During this time (autumn and early winter), Prawn on the Lawn treats the catch right, serving them across the menu, whether simply grilled in their shells, or as part of a larger fisherman’s stew or a fruits de mer selection over ice.

Yep, as we said, when they’re in season, this is a proper prawn party.

Address: 292, 294 St Paul’s Rd, London N1 2LH 

Website: prawnonthelawn.com

Torbay Prawns From St John

Ideal for a pure plateful of prawns…

A plateful of Torbay prawns, delicate and sweet, pure and true; could there be anything better? Come the season (usually running August to January) St John serves these guys up as straightforwardly as they deserve, with a wedge of lemon and a dollop of silky mayonnaise. Need we say more?

Website: stjohnrestaurant.com

Address: 26 St John St, Barbican, London EC1M 4AY

Prawn Cocktail at Berners Tavern

You didn’t think we could write an article about prawns without mentioning the prawn cocktail, hey? Heston Blumenthal has described this 1970s throwback as his “secret vice”, and he isn’t the only one who has a sentimental fondness for prawn cocktails.  

A well-executed prawn cocktail can be utterly delicious, and we’ve found a version that Mr Perfection himself would approve of, here from fellow celebrity chef, Jason Atherton. 

Your old-timey, dinner party, limp lettuce, lacklustre, watery prawn and inferior Marie Rose sauce this ain’t. This is a prawn cocktail with Michelin designs, as imagined by Atherton (whose guilty pleasure is a Nandos, if you’re wondering). He includes lobster jelly, avocado wasabi puree, and crispy shallots in his rendition. 

The chef has history with this dish. Atherton told the Independent that his earliest food memory was at his parent’s hotel in Skegness, when after school he would “lay out all the starters on the table  – home-made pâtés and terrines or prawn cocktail”, and sneak a few bites. Atherton’s last supper would also involve a prawn cocktail as a starter. It seems only fitting, then, that he elevates this retro classic to a modern day marvel, and onto our list of the best prawn dishes in London it goes for good measure.

Address: 10 Berners St, London W1T 3NP 

Website:  bernerstavern.com 

Gambas Rojas at Barrafina Drury Lane

Ideal for red prawns done in a variety of ways…

The celebrated tapas institution Barrafina’s seafood-celebrating restaurant on Drury Lane nearly always has gambas rojas, the prized Spanish red prawn, on the menu. You can’t go wrong with their version served al ajillo – plump, pan-fried beauties that arrive in a sizzling mix of garlic, chilli oil and brandy, all finished with parsley. It’s a classic and there’s nothing better than mopping up the fragrant, rust-coloured oil with some crusty bread. 

Or, if the mood takes you, have a plate of gambas a la sal here – where prawns have been grilled on the plancha and seasoned simply with salt – it’s the ideal way to experience the naked, unadulterated essence of these pink prawns at their best. 

Although in danger of an ozone overdose, we never leave Drury Lane without also ordering Barrafina’s perfectly poised prawn and piquillo pepper tortilla. With a slightly gooey centre, beautifully golden exterior and filled with prawn goodness, it’s one of the best Spanish omelettes you’ll ever have. And since you’re here, if it’s on special, order the arros de carabineros and you’ve got yourself a full-blown tapas feast of prawns. 

Very occasionally, you’ll even see the revered gambas rojas from Denia on the special’s board. If you do, snap them up fast – they don’t stick around for long.

Address: 43 Drury Ln, London WC2B 5AJ

Website: barrafina.co.uk

Prawn Kari at Hoppers

Ideal for a Kerala-style prawn curry brimming with sweetness and spice…

After the hype died down and the queues became a little less impenetrable, a truth remains; Hoppers is a reliably excellent restaurant for Sri Lankan food.

One of our favourite things to eat here as thes Tamil-style prawn curry, which has been a menu mainstay at Hoppers for years. Tangy and spicy, the sourness of tamarind complements the sweet prawns beautifully, with the flavours mingling together to create a dish that has layers and layers seemingly built into it. Warming and richly spiced, it helps you understand why Sri Lanka is known affectionately as The Spice Island. Dredge your dosa through the sauce – you know you want to. 

While you’re here, it would be rude not to order their pandan and coconut negroni – it’s our favourite way to end a meal at Hoppers..

The prawn kari is on the menu at all three of Hoppers’ outposts. 

Locations: Soho, Kings Cross, Marylebone 

Website: hopperslondon.com

CPC Prawn toast at Gunpowder Soho

Ideal for prawn toast, but not as you know it…

You might think that prawn toast doesn’t need messing with – you shouldn’t change a winning team, and all that – but buzzy Indian restaurant Gunpowder have done just that, and let us tell you; it works.

This is prawn toast, but not as you know it, and it has developed a cult following at Gunpowder’s Soho outpost. Inspired by a dish served in a Kolkata club that the restaurant team loves, this version sees black tiger prawns seasoned with a whole host of warming spices before being sandwiched in crispy, fried bread. Alongside, a dipping sauce of soy and kusandi mustard seals the deal.

Address: 20 Greek St, London W1D 4DU

Website: gunpowderrestaurants.com

Fragrant & Hot Prawns at Barshu

Ideal if you’re after hot and fiery prawns packing a serious punch…

Deep-fried in a crispy batter, then stir-fried with salt and chilli seasoning, the fragrant and hot prawns at Sichuan powerhouse Barshu aren’t for the faint of heart.

Indeed, these fiery Sichuan prawns are blessed with more dried chillies than you thought physically possible, alongside mouth-numbing Sichuan pepper for extra heat. These aren’t the dried Sichuan peppercorns that you get at your local Waitrose – these are the fresh, real deal guys that send the mala sensation of the charts. Approach with caution.

Address: 28 Frith St, London W1D 5LF

Website: barshurestaurant.co.uk

Read: Where to eat the spiciest food in London

A Pint Of Atlantic Prawns at J. Sheekey 

Ideal for a very British experience of prawns…

No seafood list would be complete without a classic pint o’prawns, let alone one devoted purely to this particular crustacean. And where else to have them than at the grand dame of Theatreland, J. Sheekey?

Sweet, pink Atlantic prawns by the quarter or half pint are the order of the day here. Served in a traditional flagon with prawn tails peeking out over the side of the silver vessel, it’s a quintessentially British, totally flamboyant seafood experience. 

Imagine this: you reach for the first prawn, and the anticipation builds. The texture is firm yet yielding, a testament to their freshness. You peel the shell, revealing the succulent flesh within, and sweep it through the accompanying dip – here, a classic cocktail sauce with a perfect balance of tanginess and spice, or perhaps a squeeze of fresh lemon to enhance the prawns’ natural flavour. 

With each bite, the prawns offer a burst of the ocean’s bounty, a taste that is both delicate and distinct. The sweetness of the meat, complemented by the zesty sauce, creates a harmonious blend of flavours that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying. 

Sorry, we got a bit carried away there. Anyway, a pint of Atlantic prawns is the true star of the J. Sheekey show. 

Address: 28-32 St Martin’s Ct, London WC2N 4AL 

Website: j-sheekey.co.uk

Prawn Mayo Cocktail at Sainsbury’s

Ideal for a prawn sandwich on the go…

We know this probably isn’t one of the best prawn dishes in London (it’s not really even a dish, plus it’s not just sold in London), but there’s something to be said for the nostalgia that comes from eating a packaged prawn sandwich.  

Our nostalgic memory involves eating them at the beach, where the sarnie would inevitably get a little sweaty and sandy. Sounds gross, we know, but we look back on that time with fondness. 

A few years ago, the prawn mayo sandwich was “prawn again”, with Marks and Sparks making headlines with the release of their ‘Best Ever Prawn Sandwich’. Developed by their in-house chefs, the British high street brand reimagined this humble sandwich by using loads of adjectives like ‘fresh’, ‘plump’ and ‘juicy’ in their adverts, and genuinely elevating things with a well-conceived Marie Rose sauce which was seasoned with lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, a fiery dash of Tabasco and a kick of brandy. It was a darn good sarnie for that sauce alone.

All the other supermarkets followed suit. Today, the Co-Op has their Irresistible Hand Made Prawn & Seafood Cocktail, Morrisons has its The Best Prawn Cocktail Sandwich (it isn’t), and Sainsbury’s peddles a Taste The Difference Bloody Mary Marie Rose Prawn Sandwich. The latter is our favourite – priced at £4, it’s pretty steep for a sandwich from a supermarket, but it’s worth it.

Website: sainsburys.co.uk

Dim Sum at Royal China Club

Ideal for a dim sum feast full of prawns…

We end our day of dining out with some dim sum. The Royal China Group do everything at a high level and their dim sum, served daily from noon until 5pm, is no exception. In fact, the group is world renowned for its dim sum and, for us, it’s one of the best places to dine in London if you want to eat prawns, prawns and more prawns. 

When it comes to the group’s prawn dim sum offerings, we especially like the silky har gow. And where there is har gow, there will be shu mai, too. Yep, these two dumplings exist in tandem, so it’d be rude not to order both; double prawn, what’s not to love? Since this is a feast, order some prawn and chive dumplings and some prawn chueng fung, too. Oh, and don’t miss out on the sesame prawn dumplings either. Because, why not? 

The Royal China Group also serve some excellent prawn dishes that aren’t dim sum – we particularly like the prawn scrambled egg rice and the prawn fried noodles. Order those and don’t skip the crunchy crispy garlic prawn spring rolls, too. 

You know what? We might have actually had our fill of prawns now…

Address: 38-42 Baker Street, London W1U 7AJ

Website: royalchinagroup.co.uk

For seafood of a different flavour (cured gently in tiger’s milk, if you must know), why not check out our review of superlative Peruvian restaurant Chakana next? Go on, you’re not full yet…

10 Professional Tips On How Home Singers Can Improve Their Singing

Editorial Team
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10 Professional Tips On How Home Singers Can Improve Their Singing

There is something magical about singing, from singing for fun in the shower to making it your profession. It is a way to allow your heart to speak without interference from your mind and enables you to break free raw emotion that might otherwise be locked away in the confines of your subconscious. 

Nevertheless, to sing competently, you need to train your vocal cords to emit the perfect pitch and allow your body to temper your tempestuous emotions into something palatable for outside listeners. It is much easier to train your voice and become the singer you’ve always wanted to be than you might think, helping you turn a flat noise sound into vibrant, colourful notes that will delight your audience and fill your soul with joy. Or, at least, not smash all the glasses on your sideboard when you deign to sing along to the radio…

Warm Up Before Any Practice Or Performance

The first and most important aspect of learning how to sing is to warm up before starting any session. This includes practice sessions and performances. By warming up your vocal cords, you will be able to relax the most vital parts of your voice and drastically reduce the risk of overstraining your voice.

Although it may not seem like it when you start, warming up correctly is the best thing to improve your singing as it provides the bedrock you can build upon. So how exactly do you “warm-up” your voice, and what is involved? Because singing has been around since time immemorial, many methods have developed over the years to get you ready for a performance. Some of the more common techniques include:

  • Yawning and sighing
  • Humming a tune
  • Straw vocalizing (you partially close your vocal tract while emitting air, creating resistance and helping your vocal cords to vibrate more efficiently).
  • Lip buzzing
  • Jaw loosening
  • Sirens
  • Slides

There are a few other methods you can use to warm up your voice, but these are the most used and provide the best results. The point is that your voice is like any other part of your body; you should avoid belting out sounds before you have sufficiently warmed and loosened up.

Photo by bruce mars on Unsplash

Enhance Your Ear Training

A finely tuned ear is essential for singers, not only to stay in key but also to harmonise and blend with other singers or instruments. Ear training can help you recognise pitch, intervals, chord progressions, and rhythms more accurately. Use apps or online courses to practice identifying intervals and pitches. Additionally, try to transcribe simple melodies by ear and sing them back. This practice will improve your musical ear and contribute to more accurate and confident singing.

Sing Every Day

If you already love singing, this step will be easy. As you are probably aware, practice makes perfect, and singing is no different. Therefore, you should take some time each day to practice as much as possible. You do not have to view this as actual singing all the time and driving your roommates crazy. Instead, you can practice warm-up routines, humming and perfecting your pitch. Nonetheless, the more you practice, the better you will become. Additionally, by practicing your warm-ups, you will develop a healthy habit that you will do automatically before every event you sing at.

Analyse Your Vocals By Recording Yourself

As the guys at TYX Studios, a music recording studio in London, tell us, you must record yourself singing to discover your strengths and weaknesses. Although many people don’t like hearing their own voice, listening to yourself sing has several advantages. It helps you develop your singing voice by identifying what you’re doing wrong and how to fix it. Additionally, if you are a musician or a producer, you can use it to find new styles of phrasing for your songs.

Finally, it can help you see how you present yourself when performing. For this, you will need to sing in front of a mirror or video yourself when doing so, which will help you understand your posture while you’re belting one out, which can help make you a better singer. Speaking of which…

Practising Good Posture Is Essential

To follow on from the last point about watching yourself sing, you should ensure that you carry yourself in the correct manner. Poor singing habits like bad posture can lead to many physical problems in the long run, such as chronic headaches, stiff neck, sore throat, and vocal cords. This is due to an improper posture while singing, which restricts the flow of oxygen in the vocal cords leading to a loss in voice quality.

Good posture ensures that the vocal cords are well aligned and stop tension in the neck muscles. It also prevents vocal fatigue caused by sitting for long hours in an improper position.

Learn How To Breathe Properly

People inevitably state that they already know how to breathe whenever this is mentioned. After all, it is something that people do every day! However, there are right ways and wrong ways to breathe, and it becomes even more relevant when you are learning to sing. Proper breathing will help you control the airflow to the vocal cords, which will produce a clearer sound. The following are some important aspects of breathing:

  • Fill up your lungs and exhale before taking a breath.
  • Breathe through your nose when possible to avoid any air from getting into your throat.
  • Keep your stomach muscles tightened when you inhale.
  • Inhale for a few seconds before continuing with singing to keep the air pressure in the lungs stable.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

Relax Your Larynx

The larynx is a little organ in the throat of all human beings. It does not have any muscles, so it cannot move itself around. It is surrounded by muscles and ligaments controlled by nerves coming from the brain to keep it where it needs to be. It is also known as the voice box, and its primary function is to produce sound by vibrating when air passes through it. The sound made here becomes “voice” when the nose, tongue, and mouth shape these vibrations. The first step to singing correctly is to relax your larynx before singing. It prevents straining of your vocal cords, which can lead to injury or the inability to fully utilize your voice’s natural range.

Learn To Sing From Your Diaphragm To Project Power

The key to a successful singing career is to learn how to project your voice as clearly as possible. Shy singers will never achieve success beyond a very niche market. Therefore, you should learn how to sing deep from your diaphragm to allow a sufficient amount of air to pass over your larynx and remain clear and in tune.

Master The Art Of Phrasing & Dynamics

Understanding the nuances of phrasing and dynamics can transform a good performance into a great one. Phrasing refers to the way a singer shapes a sequence of notes to convey emotion and meaning, much like a speaker uses intonation to express feelings in speech. To improve your phrasing, pay close attention to the lyrics and the story they tell. Practice singing with different emotional intents and experiment with where to take breaths to enhance the narrative of the song.

Dynamics, on the other hand, involve the variation in loudness between notes or phrases. They add expression and can dramatically affect the impact of a song. Work on controlling your volume and intensity; practice crescendos (gradually getting louder) and decrescendos (gradually getting softer) to add depth and interest to your singing.

Explore Different Genres & Styles

Versatility is a valuable asset for any singer. By exploring a variety of musical genres and styles, you can learn different vocal techniques and find new ways to use your voice. Each genre has its own set of stylistic nuances, from the twang in country music to the melismatic runs in R&B. Experiment with songs outside of your comfort zone to challenge your vocal adaptability. Not only will this make you a more well-rounded singer, but it may also inspire you to bring elements from one genre into another, creating a unique blend that can set you apart.

The Bottom Line

From ensuring that you warm up sufficiently to using your body to project your soulful sounds to the world, there are plenty of things you can do to become the singer that you’ve always wanted to be.

Next up, and still on the subject of music (kind of), we’re off to take a sound bath. Care to join us?

Exploring Corfu & The Best Things To Do On The Island Of The Phaeacians

Travel Team
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Exploring Corfu & The Best Things To Do On The Island Of The Phaeacians

Metropolitan, multicultural Corfu is perhaps the Greek island with the most diverse history. Taking influence from the Venetians, French and British, whilst still retaining its Greek soul, this second largest of the Ionian islands has so much to offer.

Whether you’re here for a remarkable, revered heritage, fascinating history, totally unique cuisine or simply to kick back on golden sands, there’s no chance of getting bored in Corfu. Quite the opposite, in fact. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to narrow things down to a manageable few. We’re here to help, with these; our favourite things to do in Corfu, Greece.

Explore The Old Town On Foot

Because, firstly, there is no other way! The whole of Corfu Old Town is pedestrianised, making it as lovely, hospitable and welcoming as that sounds. This UNESCO World Heritage Centre’s architecture is heavily influenced by the Venetians, who controlled Corfu for four centuries (interestingly, the Ottomans never did) and as such is very different visually to many other Greek islands. A stroll around these ancient streets is simply a brilliant way to spend a day. Make sure you check out the Church of St. Spyridon and the Church of St. Jason during your walk. 

Continuing on foot, take a walk along the huge green space called the Esplanade (the second largest square in Europe and formerly used as a cricket ground by the British) to the Museum of Asian Art, which is not only an incredible building but also houses a huge collection of Chinese and Japanese paintings. After traversing the Esplanade and east of the old town, you’ll find the Old Fortress, a citadel built in the 16th century which has to be seen to be believed.

Sample The Local Delicacies Of The Island

Corfiot cuisine has an identity all of its own, carrying the influences of Italy, the Levant, France, Greece and Turkey with dexterity, and merging them all together into something whole and unique. It’s full of fresh, locally grown ingredients and lashings of homegrown olive oil (there are an estimated 4 million olive trees on the island!) and deploys wine, garlic and dry spices like clove and cinnamon liberally. 

An absolute must-try is pastisada, a Corfiot pasta dish influenced by the Venetians who long ago occupied the island. The sauce is familiarly Italian but flavoured with the spices of the Levant (as Venice was popular stop off on the trade route between the Middle East and Europe) including cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg, cumin and allspice. A little Corfiot flair is added to the recipe for good measure.

Sofrito (not to be confused with an Italian Sofrito) is another of the island’s delicious staples, and not to be missed on your holiday in Corfu. Here, thin slices of veal are covered in flour and slowly fried with lots of garlic, white wine, parsley and olive oil. The resulting tart sauce – it’s finished with a little balsamic vinegar – pairs brilliantly with the rich veal meat. 

Being an island, there are also several signature fish dishes which make use of the surrounding sea’s bounty. Fish Bianco, which is white fish simmered in white wine and served atop a bed of potatoes flavoured with garlic, white wine and cloves, is splendid, and Bourdeto, a rich and spicy stew using scorpionfish (though stonefish, skate or octopus will do) is cooked in a tomato sauce with lots of hot red pepper and is traditionally enjoyed when all the family comes together with plenty of freshly baked bread. Heaven. And for dessert, seek out Sikomadia, a Crofiot dessert of sweet fig, which grow abundantly on the island. 

Scale The Island’s Tallest Peak, Mount Pantokrator

Situated in the north-east, Corfu’s tallest mountain peak Mount Pantokrator is a hiker’s dream. The views as you climb up the mountain are breathtaking and the summit, home to a monastery which dates back to the 1300s, is worth every moment of short breath experienced on the ascent. From here you can enjoy panoramic views of the neighbouring island of Paxos and you can even see Albania on a clear day. 

The road up is home to some remote dwellings including the traditional Greek villages of Spartilas and Strinilas which offer some respite and refreshments, as well as an intriguing look into the past. On the way down, be sure to sample the locally brewed sweet wine at one of the taverns to help you on your way. 

You might be glad to hear that you don’t have to do this on foot; you can drive or even cycle the zigzagging roads to the top of the Mount if that’s more your thing. If you do choose to walk, the best place to start is Old Perithia (Corfu’s oldest village) from which a round trip will take around half a day.

Revel In The Drama Of Angelokastro

If you haven’t peaked too soon and are hungry for another steep ascent capped off by stunning views, then Angelokastro may well finish you off; in the best possible way, of course. The Castle of the Angel stands at the top of a steep cliff with a sheer drop to follow, and surveys Corfu’s Old Town below.

This isn’t one for the fainthearted, as the walk is on somewhat treacherous terrain, and bringing your walking boots and dose of bravery are very much recommended (even the drive, if you choose to, is hair raising). You’ll be richly rewarded at the peak, though, as this castle, close to the village of Krini, has one of the most dramatic backdrops we’ve ever experienced. It’s even been voted as one of Greece’s top five vistas by Lonely Planet.

Discover The Secret Of Agios Gordios’ Hidden Cave

Tucked away on the west coast of Corfu, Agios Gordios is a stunning beach known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. But for those in the know, there’s a secret that makes this place even more special: a hidden cave, accessible only by swimming or by Corfu boat hire. This secluded spot is perfect for those looking to escape the more crowded beaches and experience a slice of untouched Corfu. The cave, with its shimmering waters and sense of tranquillity, offers a serene retreat. It’s also an excellent location for snorkelling, with a variety of marine life to discover in the calm, sheltered waters.

Wander Through The Abandoned Village Of Old Sinarades

For a step back in time, the abandoned village of Old Sinarades offers a hauntingly beautiful experience. This village, now a ghost town, was once a bustling community but was left to the elements many years ago. Walking through its deserted streets, you can see the remnants of stone houses, a silent testament to the lives once lived here. It’s a poignant place to explore, offering a unique perspective on the island’s history and the passage of time. The quiet and the atmosphere make it a photographer’s dream, with the play of light and shadow amongst the ruins providing a truly evocative scene.

Read: The best restaurants in Rhodes, Greece

Guarantee A Love Long Lasting At Canal D’amour

Legend has it that every couple who swims here together, in the ‘Channel of Love’, is guaranteed to be together for eternity. While we can’t promise that you’ll find your one true love in these waters or that your relationship won’t end by the time you get home, we can be sure that you’ll fall head over heels for the beauty of this place. Indeed, with its beautiful sculpted sandstone rocks and gorgeous turquoise waters, it’s one of nature’s great masterpieces. 

The waters are also said to have detoxifying and healing properties from the rich deposits of clay which form the rocks. Some even scoop up handfuls of clay and rub it all over their body, or give their lover sensual massage using it as a lotion of sorts. But that’s enough frolicking in the shallow water; many also come here to explore the exquisite caves nearby and to snorkel in the crystal clear water.

Uncover The Mystique Of Korission Lagoon

Korission Lagoon, located on the south-western coast of Corfu, is a nature lover’s paradise and one of the island’s best-kept secrets. This protected wetland is a haven for birdwatchers, as it’s a vital stop for migratory birds and home to several rare species. The lagoon is bordered by a forest of cedar and juniper trees, creating a diverse ecosystem where you can enjoy a peaceful walk and the chance to spot wildlife in its natural habitat.

The nearby Halikounas Beach offers a stunning contrast of the lagoon’s calm waters with the Ionian Sea’s rhythmic waves. It’s a place where the natural beauty of Corfu can be appreciated in its most unspoiled form.

Looking for more tips on your Greek getaway? Check out these travel insider tips if it’s your first time visiting the Greek islands. They might even come in handy if it’s not your first time!

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