Absolute Magazine Autumn 2016 issue 128 by Absolute Magazine Group

ABSOLUTE ISSUE 128 AUTUMN 2016

FASHION | STYLE | CULTURE | LIVING | TRAVEL

Gatwick to Hong Kong non-stop. Economy from ÂŁ399* return.

Flying four times a week from London Gatwick to Hong Kong and onwards to over 70 cities in Australia, New Zealand and Asia, on our brand-new A350 aircraft. Book by 31 October 2016 at cathaypacific.co.uk *Terms and Conditions: Book by 31.10.16. Travel dates valid for travel between 01.11.16 - 07.12.16, 29.12.16 - 31.3.17, 17.04.17 - 31.05.17. Other travel dates and fares are available.

Index 10 - CITY NEWS 16 - FASHION STYLE 26 - BURNING MAN 32 - CATHAY PACIFIC 34 - PARTY AT THE RACES 36 - THE ALBION 39 - BEAUTY 42 - OLLIE CUNNINGHAM 44 - TANNING SHOP 50 - FIZZ & FOOD 56 - COFFEE & CAKE - ABSOLUTE HOMES SUPPLEMENT 60 - ISSACS AT 64 - BELLE VUE 68 - CURRY LEAF CAFĒ 72 - WEEKEND ROAD TRIPS 78- STREET STYLE & FASHION 90 - LONDON LIFE 96 - HONG KONG TRAVEL 108 - SARA ABBOTT 112 - I-TREX 116 - SUSSEX SIGNS 120 - RECHARGE COURIERS Contributing Editors - Charlie Carter | Matt Parr | Shelley Louise Baker | Victoria Marie Emerson | Lindsay Katherine Hills Pete Hayward | Tony Shattell (food reviewer) Fashion, Beauty & Interior Styling Editor - Kasia (The Styling Agency) Features Editor - Victoria Marie Emerson - info@absolutemagazine.co.uk Managing Editor - Dan Tester Account Mangers - Victoria Lucy Boxall | Emily Bunclark Designer - Pete Hayward - Southbeachmedia.co.uk Owners - Publishers Simon Darcy Abbott - simon@absolutemagazine.co.uk David Camici - dcamici@absolutemagazine.co.uk

Cover Shot Photography – Robin Bradshaw at Bullit Photography Styling & Art direction – Kasia at The Styling Agency Hair & Make-up – Lipstick & Gunpowder Model – Dora Grubisic & Aleksandra Popovic First Management, London

Location – British Airways i360

ABSOLUTE is owned and produced by Make a Difference Media Ltd Absolute offices 1 Preston Road, Brighton, BN1 4QU

Printed by the Magazine Printing Company London

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Editor’s Letter Throughout the pages of this edition we mention the shortening of the days, the weather getting cooler, and the leaves from falling from the trees. But, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. Far from it, in fact.

Don’t tell everyone, but Brighton is fantastic all-year round!

There’s plenty of inspiration for Brighton and Hove’s young families with an information-packed guide to road trips on page 72, taking in London attractions, the Eden Project and Thorpe Park. And, we bring you news on the latest kids’ festival to hit the city in late October.

Kasia takes three people off the street and analyses their style and chooses a colourful selection

of potential outfits to wear this autumn and on page 28, highlights some beautiful furniture options too.

We meet some innovative local business people, an amazing local artist, take you to the Nevada

desert, pop over to experience the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong on page 96, and introduce you to a forward-thinking company who put ethics and co-operation before money and profit, on page 112.

Chuck in our usual hunt for the perfect coffee, a new restaurant review and a handy guide to Brighton and Hove hostelries, and you’re all set to explore this wonderful place.

And if that wasn’t enough, we’ve launched a sister publication, Absolute Albion, dedicated to

our local club, full of tales, opinions, trips down memory lane and thoughts on this season’s progress, brought to you by a team of hugely experienced writers. Find out more on page 36. Enjoy!

Dan Tester

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kirkandkirk.com #kirkandkirk

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News (DON’T) COUGH UP We all know smoking is bad for your health, but it’s not great for the economy either, costing the country a staggering £12.9bn a year! There are 2.8m vapers in the UK – is it the better option? Figures we do know are that 60% of smokers find it hard to last a whole day without smoking while 454,700 NHS hospital admissions can be attributed to smoking. Cigarettes are the single most traded item on the planet with 1trillion being sold from country to country each year while the Health Service two of three people using e-cigarettes quit successfully in 2015. Most e-liquids only have four ingredients compared to 7,000 in cigarettes.

Check out this graphic for more facts and figures.

PLATFORM B AWARDED FM LICENCE Hot on the heels of 1BrightonFM’s recent FM licence, Platform B – Brighton’s first ever youth-led radio station – has also received one from government broadcast regulator Ofcom.

The not-for-profit station will start broadcasting on FM in the autumn and be programmed and directed by a new generation of DJs, producers and presenters. Working like a pirate station, Platform B will challenge the formal infrastructure of traditional radio – moving out of the studio and into public spaces, to increase visibility, access and engagement.

Every aspect of Platform B will be managed and implemented by young adults and offer access and personal development opportunities to young people, schools, colleges and community groups.

Platform B currently runs ‘pop-up’ broadcasts online from the Green Door Store and over the coming months broadcasts will take in other venues including, Brighton Youth Centre, recording studios, ‘pop up’ stores and at various public spaces and events. To find out more and to get involved, visit: www.platformb.org.uk

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SISTER ACT AT THE BRIGHTON CENTRE Wednesday 11th to Saturday 14th January 2017. Choreographed and directed by Craig Revel Horwood, Sister Act comes to the Brighton Centre next year.

Starring Alexandra Burke and based on the smash hit film starring Whoopi Goldberg and Maggie Smith, the show tells the story of Deloris Van Cartier (Burke), a disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she won’t be found – a convent. Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own. This all new production features original music by the eight-time Oscar and Tony Award winner Alan Menken. Tickets: www.thebrightoncentre. co.uk Box office: 0844 847 1515. www.sisteractuktour.co.uk

HALF-TERM FUN WITH THE NATIONAL TRUST Check out the NT’s jam-packed half-term activities.

From eerie trails, making lotions and potions or simply playing in the leaves, there’s something to give the whole family the jitters this Halloween.

Kids can continue to take part in the 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ activities, such as catching a falling leaf or building a den and adults won’t be left out either with the return of the popular ghost walk at Bodiam Castle. Bateman’s – Hallowe’en trail Friday 21 October – Monday 31 October, 11am – 5pm Follow the haunted mansion trail and see which spooky characters are watching you! Wearing a spooky costume might scare them off and win an extra prize.

Bateman’s – 50 things Daily from Saturday 22 October to Sunday 30 October, 10am-4pm Play pooh sticks, run around in the rain or hunt for bugs, or create some wild art in the meadow.

Bodiam Castle – Medieval Graffiti Uncovered Monday 31 October, 11.30am Be the first to discover the medieval graffiti that once defended Bodiam Castle. Archaeologist Nathalie Cohen will be joined by expert Matt Champion for a special unveiling of fascinating symbols recently uncovered at the ruin. An intimate talk followed by lunch will reveal extraordinary findings such as 14th-century inscriptions, extensive witch’s marks and ritual protection engravings above doorways and windows. For tickets and more information, please visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

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News

ARW (Yes)

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PLENTY NEW ON AT THE OLD MARKET Autumn 2016

STARVATION SHOULDN’T YES YES YES in 2017 BE ANYONE’S BAG Wednesday 15th March Bag and accessory company Kurtis Paul has taken the unusual step of donating all their profits, made between 1st August and Christmas, to three African charities.

“This decision was made due to our strong belief in the responsibilities businesses have to make the world a better place,” said company co-founder Lloyd Rayner.

“We believe charity is something which every organisation should take part in, regardless of size. I have seen, first-hand, some devastating conditions which people around the world are living in and whilst I am under no illusions that our donation will remedy the problems I believe that by helping even one person we are making a difference.” To find out more about this excellent initiative, visit: www.kurtispaul.com

After 25 years, the definitive Yes lineup of Jon Anderson, Trevor Rabin and Rick Wakeman (touring as ARW) are coming to the Brighton Dome next year.

The most successful prog rock group of all time, the band was co-founded by Jon Anderson and the late Chris Squire in 1968 and went on to sell millions of records with releases such as Fragile, Close to The Edge, Tales From Topographic Oceans, Going For The One and 90125, as well as embarking on several record-breaking world tours. While Rick is associated with the 1970s’ ‘prog era’ of the band and Trevor associated with the 1980s’ ‘pop era’, Jon is the bridge between both factions (as he was a member of both eras). www.brightondome.org

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Get your diaries out and get planning ahead. The Old Market has launched its seasonal schedule with over 50 individual performances. MUSIC: Lake Street Dive [13 Nov] Lake Street Dive return to Europe following sold-out Dublin and London shows, and performances on Later... with Jools Holland and The Late Late Show. LATE NIGHT EVENTS: Soul Casserole and Club Click [29 OCT] Soul Casserole and Club Click come together for a night of dirty disco, freaky funk and sweet soul, plus live music from ten-piece band Soul Steppers.

THEATRE: A Gambler’s Guide To Dying [29 SEP – 1 OCT] Gary McNair returns his award-winning tale of one boy’s granddad who won a fortune betting on the 1966 World Cup and, when diagnosed with cancer, gambled it all on living to see the year 2000. COMEDY: Mark Thomas [8 NOV] The Red Shed is the third part in a trilogy of multi award-winning shows (Bravo Figaro and Cuckooed). www.theoldmarket.com

HAIR BY

OLIVER CUNNINGHAM CUCKFIELD

113 High Street RH17 5JX t: 01444 452600 reception@olivercunningham.com www.olivercunnigham.com OPENING TIMES Monday 10-6 | Tuesday 10-6 | Wednesday 10-6 | Thursday 10-6 | Friday 10-6 Saturday 9-5 | Sunday Closed Opening mid October, now taking pre bookings via email 14

HIJACK CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL

THE COLOR RUN

October 22nd to October 26th at various venues across Brighton and Hove

Brighton enjoyed a colourful makeover in the middle of September as thousands of local runners took to the streets, and then covered themselves in a sea of colourful dye.

Hijack began after a successful Brighton & Hove Children’s Festival 2012 that Komedia Productions co-produced with Brighton & Hove City Council and Brighton & Hove Arts Commission. ~

Hijack have hijacked venues, libraries, a public square and a woodland park with fantastic artists making comedy, music, theatre, dance performances and others who use technology and metal in their hands-on workshops. Children have made wishes for their city and dens in the woods, launched rockets, discovered jazz and met a stunt-man, dinosaurs and a spaceship called Futertron!

The Color Run was a 5k fun run along the seafront, starting at Madeira Drive, before eventually crossing the line at the ‘finish’ festival, where the happy crowd were entertained by a DJ, and a mass ‘colour throw’.

www.hijackhq.com

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i360 living the high life MODELS Dora Grubisic & Aleksandra Popovic First Model Management, London PHOTOGRAPHY Robin Bradshaw at Bullit Photography STYLING & ART DIRECTION Kasia at The Styling Agency HAIR & MAKE-UP Lipstick & Gunpowder, Brighton FASHION Collectif, 29 Bond St, Brighton, BN1 1RD LOCATION British Airways i360

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BURNING Man Burning Man is an annual gathering that takes place at Black Rock City, where a temporary community is built in the Black Rock Desert in Nevada.

he event is described as an experiment in community and art, influenced by ten main principles, including ‘radical’ inclusion, self-reliance and self-expression, as well as community cooperation, civic responsibility, gifting, de-commodification, participation, immediacy and ‘leaving no trace’. Burning Man was first held in 1986 on Baker Beach in San Francisco as a small function organised by Larry Harvey and a group of friends, and has since been held annually, spanning from the last Sunday in August to the first Monday in September (the U.S. Labor Day). At Burning Man, the community explores various forms of artistic self-expression, created in celebration for the pleasure of everyone that attends. One of the things I find to be so special about Burning Man is the selfless giving of one’s unique talents for the enjoyment of all. Some of these generous out-pourings of creativity can include experimental and interactive sculpture, building, performance, and art cars, among many other mystical mediums, often inspired by the yearly theme, chosen by organisers. No two years are the same at Burning Man, but what remains symbolic is the ritual burning of a large wooden art structure ‘the Man’ that traditionally occurs every year on the Saturday evening.

Burning Man is organised by the Burning Man Project, a non-profit organisation that, in 2014, succeeded a for-profit limited liability company (Black Rock City, LLC) that was formed in 1997 to represent the event’s organisers, and is now considered a subsidiary of the non-profit organisation. The numbers of people attending this mystical event has risen over the years; in 2010, 51,515 people attended which later rose to 70,000 by 2015. Whenever someone asks me about this spectacle I struggle to find the perfect words. What does ‘out of this world’ look like to you? Perhaps that’s the best question I could ask here, and leave you to ponder on that

for a moment. Really visualise what that may look like to you. I asked myself the same question before I made my way to Black Rock City for the very first time six years ago, and it’s quite frank to say that when I actually made it there, I was quite literally blown away in all senses of the word. I knew from my first ‘burn’, when my feet touched down on the ground, what is more commonly known amongst ‘burners’ as the ‘playa’, that was it, I was committed. On that first day I soon realised the coming week would be engrained with so much greatness across multiple realms, and I instantly thought there was no way I was going to give up this yearly opportunity to dance with life in all its glory. One really cannot quite comprehend how much you take away from Burning Man, until you have experienced it for yourself. Weeks, months and even years after the event, are filled with more sudden realisations of the lessons learned there. There is so much I could share with you about my experiences over the last five years of attending, but what I wish to share most of all, is my most recent trip because it sums up beautifully what can be manifested at Black Rock City.

You see, this year for the first time in my life, at the beginning of the year, I created my ‘vision board’ for the year ahead which consisted of a montage of images representing my desires across all areas of my life. One of the most profound things to happen to me this year is the images on my vision board started to take life form. Quite literally, things were showing up in 3D and in ways that you could touch and feel, that’s when it really came to me that the Law of Attraction really works. What you put out to the universe will make its way back to you, simply ‘ask and you shall receive’.

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At Burning Man, the community explores various forms of artistic selfexpression, created in celebration for the pleasure of everyone that attends.

“What I have come to learn, and what Burning Man has truly taught me, is to find that sweet spot in life called your ‘flow’.

One of my greatest lessons to take away from Burning Man this year is that even when you feel like you hit standstill in your life and nothing is happening, have faith that the universe always has your back, and there are things happening in the background, even if you cannot see or touch them, that are supporting you along your journey.

Another lesson I learnt from this year that can be applied to everyday life is to attend Burning Man, and better still, approach life with no expectation. I see people making this mistake in relationships all of the time. Too much expectation is put on an experience, or in the case of relationships, on the other person to fulfil one’s own happiness. What I have come to learn, and what Burning Man has truly taught me, is to find that sweet spot in life called your ‘flow’. This is the space in which all things become effortless, life becomes easy, things show up for you in all various forms and suddenly you become awakened and alive to all the messages being delivered to you from the universe.

This isn’t any easy task for most, for the learning comes with life experience and a ton of teachings. I guess my point is that Burning Man is one of the most enriched learning schools you will ever attend. For one, technology is hugely at bay and so, with your bare feet on mother earth and with no interference, manifestation really has the space in which to really show up for you. What is also so prevalent are the people in which you share this space with. At Burning Man you will find a beautiful mix of likeminded people who share similar visions and viewpoints on life, and when arriving from the city of London, this is one of the most refreshing and heartwarming realisations to greet you. People you meet are creators in the greatest form, they are vibrating at the highest frequency and so you find yourself

in the most enlightening and thought-provoking conversations. What I came to realise this year too, is that everything and everyone I had been subconsciously calling in in my life, showed up for me in the literal form. I met people that were connected to the greatest thought leaders pinned on my vision board, which for me was one of those truly ‘wow’ moments. I met some incredible creators, living worldwide on a conscious plane that I have so long been seeking. Life changes happen at Burning Man, and this year has been the pinnacle point for me in which I have now decided to embrace a new chapter in my life and move to Los Angeles to further pursue my dreams. And that’s just it, Burning Man not only awakens you to your dreams, it makes you realise what is possible and you leave with a new burning desire to just go out there and make things happen. It serves up a great reminder that anything is possible. As a creative, fashion stylist, TV host and motivational speaker, I came away from Burning Man more inspired than ever. It is my objective to continue to live my life in a way that integrates all of my core desires and skills. Integrating the two as a ‘way of life’ and having my ‘work’ be my passion and love is something that I always strive to live out. One thing I always express to people asking or even thinking about attending Burning Man, are the challenges that you face throughout the experience. Arguably, Burning Man is not easy, and upon long reflection that is also what makes it so special and so self-rewarding, and that is precisely why I reference it as one of the very best learning schools. You are tested across many avenues, your patience, your connection to others, how you show up in situations of conflict and how you embrace challenges. You will learn so much about yourself that will further enrich your life.

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You are confronted by the elements of mother nature which entails soaring temperatures during the day, sometimes Baltic temperatures at night, and when the wind sweeps across the desert with velocity you can suddenly find yourself amidst a ‘sand storm’. This comes with great pre-planning and an extensive pre-burn shopping list. You’ll quickly discover when exploring the desert on your bicycle that you should never leave your tent, yurt or RV without goggles and a dust mask at the ready. Top of my shopping list yearly too is an array of the most dazzling festival wear, compulsory of course.

One observation I made this year was how much the fashion at Burning Man has evolved. I was mesmerised by the elaborate costumes everywhere. As a fashion stylist, Burning Man serves up so much inspiration for me yearly and this time was quite literally next level. I noticed photoshoots happening across the playa, poignant moments being sunrise and sunset. No matter how hard you try, moments will never fully be captured in a picture, but with a great eye and camera lens you can get pretty close to it. This year I managed to experience almost every sunrise and sunset which was quite a feat, each one different in its own way, shared with old friends and new. One of my earliest sunrises this year was spent riding out on my own on my bicycle deep into the playa. I rode by three beautiful beings all sharing the moment with a bottle of champagne. I stopped and asked to join them and was greeted by the gift of a head massage whilst sipping champagne and overlooking the most beautiful intense sky, I mean what a way to greet the day ahead. Another passer-by stopped to share the moment and I’m presented with more gifts.

By the end of the week I’m laced with necklaces each telling their own unique story encompassing special moments that I shared with special beings along the way. A collection of trinkets I have gathered over the past five years symbolises long-lasting moments that will stay sketched in my memory for a lifetime. On reflection, each one reminds me of the collective of humanity and how we are all on our individual paths with a unique story to tell, yet reminds me that we are all here predominantly as one on this path called life, and we are here to revel and enjoy each other. Burning Man is the ultimate celebration of just that. This article has to be limited with words, for I could share pages and pages of my experiences and I’m never short of words or stories to tell. Or better still, teachings, which in my eyes is most important of all.

And so, I need to find the words to summarise this story and in all its essence. Burning Man for me symbolises in many ways what life should be about. Life is about living in the moment, feeling and loving all that comes in your way and fully appreciating every moment for what it is. We are the creators of our own destiny and with a passion for

self-development, I forever find ways in which to challenge myself and grow. In the words of Tony Robbins, if we are not growing we are dying and this is forever evident in my thoughts, I remind myself of this every day. Tony also says that proximity is power, which highlights the importance of being in the company of those that lift you up, help you to grow and expand and act as inspiration for you.

I am eternally grateful for all that Burning Man has taught me this year and those previous, and the intense joy it has bought to my life. I have evolved greatly as a being and my understanding of life and myself has propelled to whole new heights. I have connected with groups of people from across the world that will continue to nourish my life in the way that Burning Man has. We are here on this planet to live out our truth, to come from a place of love always for what we are and what we do and most off all we are here I believe to serve. So a lasting note… one thing that showed up for me one sunrise at Burning Man was a canvas TOMS bag that represented an almost picture perfect image of what is pinned to my board… another ‘wow’ moment.

I was so inspired by the founder of TOMS and his story. He went travelling years ago and found that in the developing world, children didn’t have shoes to put on their feet. In response to this finding, he developed a company called TOMS that sells canvas shoes and for every pair sold, a pair is delivered to the developed world to serve less fortunate children. The founder is now supporting other ‘one for one’ organisations and start-ups and his story has inspired me to build my own organisation with the same format and ultimate purpose to serve.

My mood board this year served as a reminder of this being one of my goals, Another sign from the universe that I am following my flow, I am on path and my heart is in alignment with my purpose, a confirmation that I am living what I have called in. Life really is MAGIC, which coincidentally or should I say, not so coincidentally, was one of the main art installations this year which I stumbled upon one sunrise dressed head to toe in a silver glitter catsuit, and of course the giant letters glistened in the sun in corresponding silver. Oh the synchronicity and serendipity that showed up is really quite mind blowing, and the manifestations that have shown since, really have and continue to, take my life to whole new heights. Burning Man is quite literally one of the most ‘out of this world’ journeys that I have encountered in my current lifetime. For me, it is one of the most magical place on earth, and I have travelled this earth far and wide, yet still haven’t found a place that quite depicts the word ‘magic’ in the way that Burning Man does. Kalee Hewlett www.kaleehewlett.com

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Burning Man is quite literally one of the most â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;out of this worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; journeys that I have encountered in my current lifetime. ABSOLUTE

Cathay Pacific We spoke to Paul Cruttenden, marketing and digital sales manager for Cathay Pacific, about the company’s plans for the near future.

What’s in store for Cathay at Gatwick in the run up to Christmas and the New Year? We’re delighted with the take up of the new route to date, and sales have already exceeded expectations. As such, we are focused on ensuring the route is meeting the needs of our customers as we head towards the festive season – a hugely popular time for travel to see friends and family, or simply take a break.

rich heritage was built on tourism in the Regency days and has been popular ever since. However, it’s important for the city not to rest on its laurels and to continue to entice visitors from both near and far.

How do you see your presence at Gatwick benefiting the people of Brighton and Hove, as well as local companies? Our new Gatwick route complements our existing five-times-daily service from Heathrow, bringing a choice of six daily flights to the London, and south east area as a whole. Those living in Brighton and Hove will benefit from the popular timeslot at Gatwick, and this will mean they can still easily connect to other destinations on the network.

How do you see the second runway at Gatwick – if approved – boosting the city? Gatwick is already an important business hub for the Greater London region; this result would only cement and reinforce Gatwick’s connectivity and customer experience.

For now, our main focus is to ensure our team delivers a memorable customer experience for those travelling between Gatwick and Hong Kong, and beyond.

Gatwick’s good transport links to Brighton, Hove and many of the other towns in Sussex will give both our leisure and business passengers a convenient start to their journey and help them to enjoy the overall travelling experience. With a shorter journey time, passengers can arrive at the airport relaxed, with plenty of time to shop and enjoy the facilities on offer.

Our Heathrow and Manchester routes remain hugely popular, but by launching an additional route from Gatwick, our latest service makes Cathay Pacific the only airline to offer a non-stop flight between Gatwick Airport and Hong Kong International Airport. What do you feel about all the development in and around Brighton and Hove, and the new worldclass attractions in the city? As a Hove resident myself, I think that it’s a really exciting time for the area. Brighton’s

Now is the time to really cement Brighton and Hove’s position on the map for inbound tourism from China, so the current investment and regeneration of the area is something that should really help address this further. For me, I believe that the new route will be a great pull for visitors but also be of real benefit to residents too.

What’s more, with the creation of the UK’s Department for International Trade, we anticipate businesses of all different sizes will be looking to trade on an international basis and look to the East further. This will naturally have a knock-on effect for the South East.

Whether either Heathrow or Gatwick expands further, Cathay Pacific is well placed to serve Asia and beyond in a business context. We hope frequent business travellers and companies will feel the benefit of access to the culture and businesses of China, Asia and the South West Pacific region. We are committed to giving passengers more choice and flexibility, and support demand in the region, growing businesses between the UK and China in particular.

Regarding your new routes from Gatwick being direct flights to Hong Kong and beyond, do you see these as key routes for travellers in the south, and do you have any other new routes already in mind for the future? There is a strong student population in the

Brighton area and countries such as Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand have always proved popular for gap year and summer travels, so we do see these as being key routes. We also hope the routes to Asia will prove popular with the many international students in Sussex, enabling them convenient travel to and from their studies. Cathay Pacific is always looking for opportunities to increase frequency to existing routes and open up new routes so we can strengthen our links between Hong Kong and Europe and provide even better connectivity for leisure and business travellers.

The addition of Gatwick on our Europe route map provides even more choices for passengers in the UK, as well as Asia Pacific.

What kind of traveller are you expecting to use your new routes flying out of Gatwick? At present, the majority of passengers flying with Cathay Pacific from Gatwick are both leisure and business travellers. On the leisure side, we are seeing many holidaymakers, students and those visiting friends and family taking advantage of the new route. Indeed, our premium cabins are proving hugely popular with retirees who are finally taking that trip of a lifetime. Do you have an idea of flyer numbers using the new service? Whilst we can’t provide exact figures, we can tell you our flights have been proving hugely popular since we launched the inaugural flight and often running at capacity, which is great news for the route. What do you think the future holds for Gatwick? Over the last few years, the airport has invested vast sums in creating a great experience for its customers, and we look forward to our passengers benefiting from this going forward.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The addition of Gatwick on our Europe route map provides even more choices for passengers in the UK, as well as Asia Pacific.â&#x20AC;?

Party at the Races Ladies and Gentlemen, place your bets please! And they’re off! October 1st 2016 sees the launch of Party at the Races, a new dance music extravaganza at Brighton Racecourse. With views across Brighton, the famous old racecourse will host a unique carnival of dance music and entertainment; day-time dancing and night-time clubbing, with some of the world’s biggest artists performing across three stages. 14 hours of music from 1pm to 3am! With the event rapidly approaching, organiser Mark Graham took time out from his busy schedule to chat to Absolute Brighton.

Q::Where did it all start?

“It really began from my love of music and going out clubbing as a teen and then turning it into making a living. Since then, for the last 15 years, I’ve been running approximately 450 events per year around the world. I’ve worked in all the major clubs in the UK, putting on events for anything from 500 to 10,000 people – indoors and out. It’s a passion and it’s fantastic making memories for so many people.”

Q::What makes ‘party at the races’ different from other festivals/party events?

“It’s a concept, bringing in virtual horse racing with world-class talented artists for the day. We’re using a venue with amazing views, and unique assets i.e. it’s an actual racecourse! The date means it’s also the last chance to party outdoors this summer.”

Q::You have three stages. What’s your vision for this party?

“We just want people to have fun! Bet for fun! Dance on the terraces, enjoy the view and music. We wanted to make the event affordable for everyone local, and tourists. Stage wise, as well as the main stage, we’ve brought in the best brands from around the world. We’ve got Space from Ibiza hosting one. It’s amazing to have them in Brighton as they are closing the doors of their Ibiza

club for the last time the very next night! So we’ll be bringing that Space magic and some amazing artists on their line up – it’s going to be special. We also have Café Mambo hosting the VIP room with their residents too. Last but by no means least, is the Best of Brighton stage. It’s important to promote and look after local talent. We’ve got an amazing stage for them and have pushed the event nationally. I’m really looking forward to hearing them all live!”

Q::Who’s performing?

“We have Basement Jaxx headlining, which is an honour! They are right up there as legends of electronic music. We are also hosting two new talents; Jonas Blue, who had a number 1 this year with Perfect Strangers, following his version of Fast Car, which went platinum. It’s been quite a year for him. Youngr is another top talent, an ‘internet sensation’ in fact, with millions of views online with his live house band!”

Q::How did the idea come about for this particular event?

“We wanted to create a concept that brought electronic music and horse racing together, something that’s been missing from the music events industry. Racecourses are stunning sites full of history, with amazing landscapes. We wanted to create a concept that respected the horses and traditions of racing, but also promoted it too. We don’t

have live racing at this event, but we do bring the concept of a normal race day using the stadium infrastructure where people can bet for fun on our virtual horse racing, whilst also enjoying the music and entertainment that’s on offer, all day.”

Q::What attractions/games will there be?

“As already mentioned, one of the main attractions will be virtual horse racing! It gets everyone involved and there are lots of chances to win. For example, the top five punters will win prizes including free drinks for the rest of the night. Horses are named after the artists, and there will be a big screen broadcasting all the races, plus screens inside. This is all happening while the music is on. We also have a vintage fun-fair, and photobooths in VW Camper Vans.”

Q::Will Party at the Races continue as an annual event within Brighton & Hove?

“The response has been fantastic. I’m very grateful for the support of the paying public – if they didn’t buy tickets then the show wouldn’t happen! So a big thanks to everyone who’s bought one. The feedback from artists and the music industry has been unbelievable! We are already in talks about more shows, but the team is fully focused on making this first one amazing. Watch this space!” Mathew Parr www.instagram.com/mparr3101

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One of the main attractions will be virtual horse racing! It gets everyone involved and there are lots of chances to win. For example, the top five punters will win prizes including free drinks for the rest of the night. Horses are named after the artists.â&#x20AC;?

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B R I G H T O N

H O V E

Albion

The Albion is as much a part of the city’s fabric as the Pavilion, the beach, the piers (both of them), seagulls, marauding students, colourful characters and ridiculous house prices.

he Albion is as much a part of the city’s fabric as the Pavilion, the beach, the piers (both of them), seagulls, marauding students, colourful characters and ridiculous house prices. After three near-misses in the play-offs in the first five seasons at the Amex, Chris Hughton’s men are a couple of months into a campaign the supporters hope will finally see the stripes reach the supposed holy grail of the Premier League.

After 12 years at Withdean, two at Gillingham and a total of 14 years without a home, Albion are now fully bedded in at the American Express Community Stadium in Falmer. The 30,000-capacity arena is widely regarded as one of the best new stadiums in the world, and rightly so. In our media soaked day-to-day lives, we can find out pretty much anything at the touch of a button, including all things Albion. But, what isn’t so easily accessible is a 360 spectrum of the club, and everything surrounding it. So, we’ve decided to support our favourite team by publishing a free magazine, Absolute Albion, each month – that’s available online too. We’ve pulled together a supremely talented – and knowledgeable – bunch of writers including Nick Szczepanik (The Times, The Independent, Daily Mail), Simon Levenson (BBC Sussex),

Nic Outterside, (Scottish Journalist of the Year (twice)), Alan Wares (Albion Roar), and Brett Mendoza (Sky TV).

In the first edition – available now in 300 outlets across town – Nick laments the loss of club legend Iñigo Calderon to Cyprus, Simon reacts to Sky’s never-ending quest to make football all about them, Alan waxes lyrical over the squad’s team spirit, and Brett analyses Albion’s inability to progress in the end-of-season play-offs.

We also take a look at Albion’s eclectic online presence, pick some prematch pubs, welcome back Glenn Murray and investigate the history of forthcoming opponents Wolverhampton Wanderers. And, we believe we are the first general football magazine to include a regular LGBTQ column, which will discuss issues facing their community, and the wider game. Issue two is out at the end of October.

We want Absolute Albion to reflect every area of our football club, so please contact us if you there’s something you’d like us to consider for publication: info@absolutealbion.co.uk. Dan Tester

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All images Paul Hazlewood, BHAFC

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The Absolute fashion shoot for this issue took place at the magnificent British Airways i360. This impressive attraction fuses a retro and futuristic design, just like the look and style of our photo session. Compiled by KASIA AT THE STYLING AGENCY

Flawless Envelop your skin in a glowing veil with finishing powders that enhance luminosity and perfect the finishing touch. Innovative products also control the reflection of light. Transition easily from day to night by blending matte and satin finishes.

So nude! Our make-up team created this look with some fine products. If you like what you see and wish to recreate it yourself, experiment with high street brands available almost everywhere.

Main colour pallette includes nude brown and earth tones in velvety textures.

GUERLAIN Tonka Imperiale £25

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Oliver Cunningham and his elite team With nearly 20 years’ experience in the hair industry, celebrity hair colourist, Oliver Cunnigham has worked in some of the most prestigious hair salons in the UK. With famous clients like Leona Lewis and Lottie Moss, he is certainly in demand! Despite his busy schedule, Oliver talks to Absolute about the next milestone in his career - his new salon.

Q::Can you tell us some of the celebrity clients you work with?

Firstly, I treat all my clients as celebrities, I am passionate about colouring and feel that continuous research and development is required to achieve the results desired. My clients include Leona Lewis, Lottie Moss, Penelope Cruz, and many more. But, I offer my hair services to everyone.

Q::Describe the look of your new salon.

It’s going to be classic with an eccentric twist, mixing period features with quirky pieces. I want my clients to feel at home, not imposing nor intimidating, a relaxed private members club/boutique hotel type of ambience.

Q::You have built an elite team under the ‘Oliver Cunnigham’ brand. What do they offer the salon?

My team offers a combined wealth of experience at the highest level, working alongside leaders and trendsetters in our industry. We have all worked with the crème

To keep up-to-date with events please follow our social media from our website. www.olivercunningham.com

de la crème of hairdressing and cut the hair of models/TV personalities/Hollywood royalty/pop stars/journalists etc. Personally, I have both the highest recognised colour degrees with both Wella and L’Oréal. Other members of my team have been referred to as the ‘queen of fringes’ by well-known beauty editor Sali Hughes in The Guardian, who also worked alongside Sali with her book Pretty Honest. Other members have taught internationally for elite London hairdressing salons and have been part of their art team. Our team has a great deal of experience with clients experiencing hair loss through chemotherapy and alopecia. This includes cutting and customising wigs.

Q::What is your vision for the new salon?

Create all the nice parts of a buzzing London salon but in the heart of Sussex, a flawless team of hugely experienced stylists in beautiful relaxed surroundings, giving a premium service to each and every client. I do believe our new salon will take hairdressing to another level.

Oliver Cunningham 113 High Street Cuckfield Sussex RH 17 5JX

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Q::You’ve worked with a lot of

celebrities. What have you gained from working with them (and from your clients in general)?

“The divide is becoming less. Being in the media spotlight offers additional pressure based on their very real need to ‘act’ all of the time – but that is it. They have the same issues as us all. The truth is that with the visibility of social media, the divide is becoming less. There is always someone watching and prepared to cast judgement based on our own weaknesses, it’s just on a greater magnitude. I have learnt to spend less time looking at others and focusing on ‘being’ more.”

Q::Is there any information you can

exclusively tell Absolute Magazine?

The new salon will be open mid-October and we’ll be having a launch party at the beginning of November where media and press will have the chance to meet my elite team and see the salon in its full glory.

Mathew Parr www.instagram.com/mparr3101 www.twitter.com/mparr3101 www.youtube.com/c/LGOODTV

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Glowing for Gold Summer may be over and autumn firmly here, but it’s not just the falling leaves that are turning a gorgeous shade of gold this season – many Brighton and Hove residents are getting an autumnal glow with The Tanning Shop.

s of last year, the nationwide tanning company now have two stores in Brighton (Queens Road and Western Road), giving tan-lovers convenient locations across the city to become beautifully bronzed.

Whether you’re a fan of UV tanning, or favour a sunless spray tan, The Tanning Shop prides itself on providing knowledgeable customer service, so you’re in safe, streak-free hands when looking for a flawless finish. Step into a state-of-the-art salon and you’ll be warmly welcomed by a helpful team of tanning experts who are onhand to advise you on the best type of tanning for your personal requirements. During registration, your skin type will be profiled, along with your tanning history. This allows the experts to build a tailored tanning plan to suit your individual needs. The experts can also share their tips for building, maintaining and caring for your tan – whether you opt for UV or sunless tanning – and suggest wonder products to make your glow as gorgeous as possible! They have tanning and skin care products that range from base tan builders to

bronzing lotions, each chosen for their effectiveness in delivering a deeper, darker, longer-lasting tan. This year, the company is celebrating its 25th anniversary and whilst it has grown (it now has 52 stores across the country and over 20 franchises!) the fundamental belief to offer their clients natural-looking tans, along with advice to make them as safe as possible, is still at its heart. “This is an exciting year as we celebrate our 25th anniversary,” Emma Jobson, Head of Marketing for The Tanning Shop, explains. “While we’ve developed and grown over the years, our core philosophy has remained the same; to provide responsible tanning solutions in a professional and friendly environment. That is The Tanning Shop difference.”

Providing over 600,000 safe tans each year, The Tanning Shop trains its staff and all management complete an in-depth training programme to become accredited professionals. This covers everything from customer service to equipment operation, indoor tanning benefits to tanning regulations, giving customers far much more than ‘just a fake tan’.

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“At The Tanning Shop customer care is paramount,” Emma continues. “Our responsible approach to tanning and skincare fully complies with the Health and Safety guidelines as produced by the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE).” “Clients choose us not only because we are the UK’s largest tanning chain with 75 stores nationwide, but for the accessibility of stores open seven days a week, ease of our registration process, cleanliness of our stores and our staff, who are fully trained to assist with every aspect of the tanning process.”

Shelley Welti Find The Tanning Shop at 130 Queens Road and 88 Western Road, Brighton. Don’t forget, students receive a 20% discount and FREE tanning sessions, as well as 25% off lotions or packages, all available by signing up to The Tanning Shop’s newsletter. Visit: www.tanning-shop-offers.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The fundamental belief to offer their clients naturallooking tans, along with advice to make them as safe as possible, is still at its heart.â&#x20AC;?

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Hello there!

Opening the salon 3 years ago was such a fantastic decision, I’ve been in the industry for 10 years now and truly feel that the environment I work in enables me to give the best beauty treatments I possibly can. Being a Dermalogica Expert therapist has allowed me to have in depth knowledge and training for giving great facials and aftercare for all types of skin. All aspects of beauty are enjoyable as it keeps everyday different! Building and keeping a rapport with my clients is hugely important to me, to be on a level with someone who comes in and trusts all that you do and walks away with a smile on their face is what it’s all about for me in this industry.

Allie

Contact Allie on:

07912 176997

 Kingsway Court, Queens Gardens, First Avenue (for entrance), Hove, East Sussex, BN3 2LP  realbeautywithallie@hotmail.co.uk  www.dermalogicaconnect.co.uk/realbeauty RealbeautywithAllie

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thetanningshop.co.uk

Free tanning sessions*

Sunbed and luxury spray tanning available in-store. 130 Queens Rd, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 3WB Tel: 01273 771 770 or 88 Western Road, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2LB Tel: 01273 779 993 *Terms and Conditions apply. New customers only. Must have advert to redeem. ABSOLUTE Excludes Sun Angel and spray tanning.

FIZZ & FOOD The Chilli Pickle

at £16 per head with main course options including Christmas Turkey, Roast Duck, Fillet of Salmon and Wild Mushroom Polenta.

24 St Georges

Set right in the heart of Brighton city centre lies the colourful Chilli Pickle, an award-winning and family-run restaurant attached to the contemporary and trendy ‘My Hotel’. Bright and bold not only in its décor but in its flavours, this Indian bistro serves regional street food, in their own signature style together with fine-dining presentation. The owners were originally inspired by the London institution ‘The Cinnamon Club’ and the restaurant has been voted in the ‘Top 100 Restaurants in the UK’ at The National Restaurant Awards for four years running, gained a coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand and two AA rosettes. Christmas menus offer you the option of a combination of nibbles, starters, mains courses and desserts, with two courses and nibbles for £24.50 and three courses £27.95.

For relaxed dining in the heart of kooky Kemp Town, look no further than 24 St Georges. They are committed to using local and seasonal produces and their modern European menus change regularly to reflect this. The menus are creative, the wine list is diverse and extensive and the décor is simple, fresh and contemporary. Festive feasting menus are available at both lunch and evening sittings and start at £37 per person for three courses or £59 for the Tasting Menu which has to be pre-booked for your entire table.

Gars Chinese

Six

£27 or the vegetarian ‘Monks Feast’ at £27. Add a private karaoke room to the booking and you have the recipe for a swinging party night out!

Hotel Du Vin

Hotel du Vin Brighton is haven of luxury, located just a five minutes’ walk from Brighton Pier. This award-winning hotel offers local produce, served on a modern European menu in the stunningly decorated Bistro du Vin. With an array of festive menus on offer, you can try dishes from traditional classics to bistro specials. Christmas lunch is available from £29.95 per person and dinner from £39.50. For drinks parties, Hotel du Vin boasts a very well-equipped stylish bar with a wooden beamed ceiling and relaxed sofa seating as well as the Laroche Tasting Room which can be hired for intimate parties where rare cigars are available to purchase and guests can sample wines from around the world.

Al Duomo

Located in the Hove hotspot Western Road, Six Restaurant is the new kid on the block, residing in the premises previously known as Hove Kitchen. Taking influence from abundant country fields in Europe, SIX combines the freshest ingredients with a passion for bringing out inherent flavours in a contemporary approach to cuisine. SIX offers a variety of dining experiences, from their intimate and ambient Dining Room, with luxurious design and every romantic detail taken care of, to the more relaxed and informal Brasserie style dining area. SIX is the perfect new eatery for your Christmas party with set menus stating

From the moment Gars Chinese Restaurant opened in 1983, it set the bar extremely high for Chinese cuisine in Brighton. Gars is a contemporary Chinese restaurant with a menu that is constantly evolving to reflect changing tastes and new ideas. Whilst serving mainly modern Chinese cuisine, the menu also includes other popular Asian dishes such as Thai Green Curry and Japanese favourites such as Salmon Teriyaki. The décor reflects this modern take on dining, aimed at catching the excitement and sophistication of a modern, Londonstyle restaurant in the heart of Brighton. For Festive flavours with a difference, The Gars Christmas menus include ‘The Emperors Choice’ at £35 per head, the ‘Chef ’s Feast’ at

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At Al Duomo you can experience true Italian cooking at purse-friendly prices, served by passionate and friendly staff. At Christmas time, the restaurant is at its very best with a fantastic party atmosphere and honest super tasty set menus, offering something for everyone. Whether it is lunch with the girls, the office Christmas party on a school night or a big night out at their ’Boogie Nights Disco’, Al Duomo have Christmas all wrapped up.

Busby and Wilds

Busby and Wilds is a neighbourhood gastro pub serving great food and booze in a cosy, friendly atmosphere, tucked away in the quiet back streets of Kemptown, Brighton. Their food is home cooked from fine, fresh and locally sourced ingredients with beers from all over the world, local real ales and an extensive, hand-picked wine list. You will be sure to get their signature warm welcome this Christmas and a happy and full belly with their festive set menus which start at £23 for two courses and feature gourmet dishes such as Slow Braised Beef Cheeks, Sussex ‘Smokie’ Fishcake and of course Stuffed Ballotine of Sussex Turkey.

No 32

Christmas arrives in style at Brighton’s premier bar, lounge & restaurant this year! Located in Duke Street and with an aim to make their customers ‘Drink.Eat.Dance’, No. 32 is open seven days a week and is the ultimate decadent party venue to make merry. Featuring several different spaces in which to revel, they can cater for any party size from an intimate soiree with pals to a festive feast with the masses. You can even hire out the entire venue for an extra special Christmas ‘do’. Be sure to book early though – this is one very popular party hot spot!

Seattle Hotel & Restaurant

The Restaurant at the Brighton Marina based Hotel Seattle combines contemporary British menus and stunning surroundings to create somewhere brimming with life. They invite you to enjoy good food, good music and good accommodation this Christmas either by booking a table with friends and enjoying one of their festive set menus or joining one of their infamous party nights that fuse seasonal dining with the best dance floor classic from across the decades, compliments of the DJ.

a magnificent Christmas tree!) Whether you choose to celebrate at their party nights with friends or colleagues or in a smaller group , GB1 is a fantastic setting offering light bites, festive cocktails and live entertainment.

Hove Place

Jamie’s Italian

Culinary hero Janie Oliver presents ‘Jamie’s Italian’, located on Black Lion Street, nestled within Brighton’s famous Lanes. Jamie and his team have put their heads together this year and created stunning Christmas menus that are guaranteed to delight! Packed to the rafters with festive flavours, dishes include Italian-style Roast Turkey, Gennaro’s Porchetta and a delectable Venetian Stew. Add to that their ever-popular Antipasti Planks, devilishly tasty dessert menus and a glass of Prosecco and you have the ultimate festive banquet! The Festive Menus start at £29.95 for three courses and a glass of bubby.

Standing proud in the centre of Hove is the very hub of the area; Hove Place, the extremely popular bistro and perfect eatery at Christmas time. The bar offers an extensive product range of local ales, quality wines and speciality beers supplemented by a back bar of some 100 well known spirits. Festive menus range from 2 courses at £22 per head, 3 courses at £26 per head, 4 courses at £30 per head and feature mains such as 45 Day Aged Rump of South Downs Beef, Free-Range Turkey Ballotine and Pan-Fried Stack of Lemon Sole. Hove Place is guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning of foodie revellers.

Limes Restaurant

GB1 Restaurant

Brighton’s most glamorous culinary hotspots, GB1 Seafood Restaurant & Bar is situated within the iconic Grand Hotel Brighton and is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. This is a mecca for the south coast’s finest and freshest fish and seafood, caught daily and delivered fresh to your plate. This Christmas revel within the warmth of the Victorian grandeur and top notch hospitality, the lively atmosphere of the buzzing restaurant and the sparkle of the stunning yuletide décor throughout (including

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How about escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and taking a jaunt to Lindfield and visit Limes Restaurant where you can be assured of great food, great service and a great time within a picturesque Sussex setting. Just a 35 minute drive from Brighton, their Christmas festive menu offers a tempting three course selection plus an amuse bouche and coffee with mini mince pie for just £27.50 (two courses for £22.50). The flexible restaurant space can comfortably accommodate parties varying from 2 to 40 guests.can truly soak up the alfresco festive atmosphere. On Saturday night’s there is also a DJ playing tunes to take you and your dancing feet into the early hours.

BARS & BEATS Bohemia BYOC

Bring your own Cocktail is the newest bar to join the ever expanding plethora of drinking establishments popping up. This type of bar is the first of its kind in Brighton as alcohol is not available to buy on the premises and there is no drinks menu. You and your friends are invited to bring your favourite spirits and hire one of the expert bartenders to mix whatever drink you desire. The cocktails are prepared and served in front of you from a trolley with a selection of cocktail acompliments. You pay a flat fee for a set amount of time with the mixologist. This is great idea if you love cocktails and are on a budget and its lots of fun getting the staff to create your favourite tipple.

If you are looking for a premier cocktail bar with lots of atmosphere then this the place for you. Bohemia is a great place to spend your evening. Spread over 3 floors it has a large central bar on the ground floor with highly trained bar staff on hand to mix cocktails that won’t disappoint. They are a bit pricey but definitely worth it. The first floor has a late lounge, specialising in champagne and even has a cigar menu. The lounge opens Friday and Saturdays till late and has Djs every evening if you fancy a dance. The top floor even has a beautiful glass walled Veuve Clicquot Champagne roof garden complete with AstroTurf.

Hotel Du Vin

My Hotel

If you’re after a Sex and the City venue then look no further. My Hotel is a beautifully crafted bar with curved walls, gilding pewter surfaces and low lighting, reflecting a warm and spacious cocoon. As part of the My Hotel franchise, the bar is open to non-guests to enjoy some beautifully made cocktails, a sophisticated atmosphere and an altogether glamorous night out. The bar staff are knowledgeable and helpful. This is a good place for special occasions. Everyone gets super dressed up so if you are looking to get your glad rags on and feel special this could be the place for you.

A lovely start to your evening in a classy venue. The bar is part of the Hotel Du Vin chain and is open to non-guests to come in and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. It is a little on the pricey side but if it is sophistication you are after then look no further. The bar has an extensive list of wines and a wide selection of whiskies, rums and countless spirits. As well as relaxing in the main bar you can also enjoy a game of billiards located on the balcony above.

Legends

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Legends is a gay bar and hotel located on Marine Parade just a minute away from Brighton pier. It has a fantastic selection of rooms with stunning sea views. The venue itself is very spacious and has a large bar upstairs with outside terrace and huge dance floor downstairs. There is always plenty going on with drag acts during the week and great music played by a diverse range of Djs at the weekends.

Lion & Lobster

If you are looking for a good, old fashioned, comfy pub with a great atmosphere then this is the place for you. The Lion and Lobster is very popular with the locals and has become a bit of a Brighton institution. It is a good venue to start your night before going out on the town. The pub is spread over three floors with a main bar downstairs complete with cosy real fires in winter. The second floor has a small bar within a beautiful dining room and the third floor is the outside smoker’s area complete with mini bar and outside heaters. The Sunday roasts are very popular but make sure you get there early.

The Font

This is an ideal venue for pre-drinks if you are out on a hen or stag night or with a big groups of friends. The drinks are cheap with lots of offers on shots. The bar staff are very friendly and service is speedy. There is always a DJ downstairs playing popular tunes to get your night started. The atmosphere is fun but cheesy.

Fortune of War Proud Cabaret Brighton

smothered walls to locally produced art work and mis-matched furniture, Neighbourhood have eclectic spot on.

MEAT liquor

This lovely pub has been open since 1882, making it the oldest pub on the seafront. It is a good meeting place if you are going clubbing on the seafront. There are Djs playing at the weekends and it always has a friendly atmosphere and is never too crowded. The décor has a maritime theme and the pub provides beautiful views over the seafront. It has an outside seating area and a buzzy atmosphere during the summer months.

32 Duke Street

Proud Cabaret is the ultimate in evening indulgence for your late night drinking antics. A den of 1920s lusting and vintage charm, Proud are champions of sumptuous décor, beautiful babes and cabaret cavorts where you can delight in entertainment, jazzy lights and delicious drinks. Gilded interiors, burlesque romps and a stunning show guaranteed on your visit here.

The Tempest Inn

Hailing from the success of their London counterpart, Brighton’s MEATliquour is a wonderment of carnivore feasts and locally inspired artwork. Based around the carnival days of Brighton gone by, doused in neons and brimming with urban regalia, MEATliquour is a unique restaurant bar in Brighton where the burgers come hearty and the cocktails come laced in awesome.

FunFair Club

Those with a party penchant wont be hard pushed to get your late night fix at this naughty, Brighton number. While a cracking destination for eating out in the day, get stuck into the confines of the quirky Brighton bar as the lights go down and the sound-system goes up for a fun loving, seaside crowd.

Lucky Voice Karaoke Brighton

Bringing the jazzy style of some of Japan’s most infamous karaoke bars, Lucky Voice is a playground for the amateur performer, the ignorant out of tuner or the stage stunna. Whether you can sing or not, grab your mates, get a booth and wait for the classic tunes to roll out for a feel good night like no other. There’s a cocktail bar lined with sofas for lounging and boozing too.

With scenic views from the beer garden at this washed up bar along the beach front, enjoy the fresh sea air and the beautiful rolling waves from your dainty picnic bench. If you can drag yourself away from this alfresco seating, you’ll be just as impressed by the coastal coves set into the walls. Enjoy a frothy pint and a tempting tipple in your very own seafront cave at this quirky little cavern.

Neighbourhood

Cool and quirky are words that don’t feel like they quite cut it at this laid back dive bar just shy of Kemp Town. If you’re not seduced by Neighbourhood’s cracking beer garden brimming with brightly coloured furniture and it’s own bar, you’ll be inside taking in two floors worth of Brooklyn inspired insanity. From vintage wares and magazine.

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Of all the things that you thought you’d be doing when you went for a drink tonight, would watching a lady hammer a nail into her nose be one of them? Nope, we didn’t think so either. A fun fair themed club inspired by Brighton’s hedonistic days, the FunFair Club is brimming with vintage flair and fun filled party people, be them lashing around in the ball pit or taking in the bed of nails table in one of the VIP rooms.

Dirtyblonde

Bar, restaurant, inspiration… Dirty Blonde is a delicious enigma, an intangible pleasure. An intimately lavish setting to eat, drink and relax. By evening, a seductive blend of sophisticated dining and fabulous cocktails. And later, a glittering nightlife emporium like than no other, hosting an eclectic mix of show stopping entertainment…

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COFFEE

CAKE

We found this conveniently located outlet near Worthing train station. Black Crow Coffee offers an artisan knowledge of traced origin coffee, as well as homemade food and locally sourced products. It was well worth the trip to sample a cup, or three.

The Cappuccino Kid

Q. You are close to Worthing station. Do you serve many commuters?

Q. How long has Black Crow Coffee been in Worthing?

As we open at 7am we do catch a lot of commuters! We offer some lovely hot filled croissants and pastries from Real Patisserie which really serve as a great breakfast for those early mornings.

We will have been trading for one year this November.

Q. OK, to the coffee. What kind of beans are you using? Do you rotate blends at all or just stick with a consistent flavour?

We exclusively use beans from a Horsham coffee roaster. They’re an astounding roaster with a wonderful ethic. We use our regular house blend ‘Pioneer’ as it’s a fantastic allrounder and we generally have a guest ‘single origin’ bean. Single origins derive from one place, as opposed to house blends which can be from a few locations. Single origins have more unusual tasting notes and are great as an espresso.

Q. Do you tweak the grind of the beans to get balanced perfection?

We absolutely do. We use a method called ‘dialling in’ every morning. This finds the sweet spot in the coffee. It’s really integral when using a high calibre of beans and involves altering different variables to achieve amazing tasting coffee. Q. What’s your secret to pouring the

perfect flat white?

The secret to any perfect coffee for us starts

Q. Where did you get your ideas for the interior of your cafe?

from grind to pour. We take real care with each step of every drink we make, from the extraction to our lovely latte art!

Q. The cakes look very appetising. Are they homemade? They are! I used to have my own cake business called Twit Twoo Bakery in Brighton and I love to make new and exciting things for the shop. Our most popular products are our Oreo brownie truffles, salted caramel brownies and our banana loaf. We toast it with butter. I often use our social media to ask for any cake requests.

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The branding and artwork comes from owners Mike Rosenberg (aka passengermusic. com) and John Purchese. The pair decided to open the coffee shop solely because of their love of coffee. Sarah Larnach (Grammy nominated) designs the artwork for Mike’s (Passenger) albums and you’ll recognise Jarrad’s artwork from shooting most of Mike’s videos. www.jarradseng.com. The name ‘Black Crow’ coffee is linked with the Passenger record label (Black Crow Records). Q. What are your future plans? We have customers coming into the shop daily saying that the ‘shop should really be in Brighton’. It is for that very reason we didn’t open the shop in Brighton; you deserve better coffee Worthing! Pete Hayward

Black Crow Coffee, 20 S Farm Rd, Worthing

“

We use a method called ‘dialling in’ every morning. This finds the sweet spot in the coffee.” ABSOLUTE

FRESH on Brighton’s restaurant scene

64 King’s Rd, Brighton, BN1 1NA www.thejetty-brighton.co.uk @JettyBrighton TheJettyBrighton 58

ABSOLUTEHOMES ISSUE FOUR - COVER BRIGHTON BEACH

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On 8th October 2016 showcase your home to Londoners looking to move out of town. There are thousands of reasons why Londoners are looking to move out of town – excellent schools, quality of life, more space and value for money. Your property and location may be just what they are looking for. Some of those moving away from London will be looking to buy immediately while many others prefer to ‘try before you buy’ and rent first before they settle for good. We are making the most of our extensive network of 33 London branches by offering to take your property right to the doorsteps of active buyers and tenants in the Capital as part of The Roadshow on Saturday 8th October. To ensure your property is showcased at this exclusive event, contact us today. The deadline for inclusion is 1st October 2016

Hamptons Haywards Heath 28 The Broadway, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 3AL Sales. 01444 316 791 haywardsheath@hamptons-int.com Lettings. 01444 316 793 haywardsheathlettings@hamptons-int.com hamptons.co.uk Please dial in full. If you have already appointed another agent, you may be subject to a restrictive contract.

In recognition of our continuous search for ways to improve the service we deliver, and for the fourth year in a row, we have received the Gold Award for Best Large Agency. So, if you would like to work with an award-winning agent that provides you with realistic advice, the highest standards of personal and professional service, creative marketing and a leading network of 87 UK offices and over 7,000 international partner offices. Contact us today. Hamptons Haywards Heath Sales. 01444 316 791 haywardsheath@hamptons-int.com Lettings. 01444 316 793 haywardsheathlettings@hamptons-int.com

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INTRODUCTION John Robinson, Living Properties

he post Brexit property market in Brighton & Hove is certainly proving to be a challenging environment to say the least. We have seen quite a reduction in activity in terms of potential buyers within the market; however the buyers that remain are genuine and motivated to buy at the right price. We are also seeing unsold property stock gradually being built up, with fresh housing stock being released onto the market remaining stable. August proved to be unusually buoyant for some agents, whilst September has been disappointing compared to last year. The Brighton & Hove property market is inextricably linked to the London market so it is vital to look to London to see what to expect locally.

Figures published by Halifax in August suggested London property prices fell between June and July, while analysis by Rightmove suggested asking prices in the capital fell 2.6% over the four weeks to mid August, the highest in the country, compared to a more general slump of 1.2% across the rest of the UK.

And another clue to what’s happening in the capital might be provided by sales of new builds, which have slumped by a massive 43% in the last year, according to analysis by London Central Portfolio. Overall 70% of London postcodes have seen a reduction in asking prices and 30% an increase, with exclusive South West London areas bucking the trend post Brexit with slight price increases.

The is inevitably sobering news for the property market in Brighton & Hove. Rightmove shows that prices in Brighton & Hove whilst remaining relatively stable, the number of properties sold

have unsurprisingly reduced post Brexit compared to the previous year, particularly taking into account the artificial spike caused by the rush to beat government stamp duty changes that came into effect in April.

That is not to say that properties are not selling in Brighton & Hove; properties are being sold but understandably buyers are extremely price sensitive with high quality, keenly priced properties in popular roads being first to sell. Overall this means that vendors are having to be realistic with asking prices, with many properties (20% post Brexit) seeing reductions in asking prices by on average 5%; according to local agents Brand Vaughan. So with more choice, sensible pricing and less competition it can certainly be seen as a buyer’s market in Brighton & Hove. So what does this mean for property developers and property investors. If you search hard enough and negotiate strongly there are opportunities to be had. The illusive ‘development opportunity’ has always been a rare beast in Brighton & Hove with high levels of competition for this type of property from owner occupiers, as well as developers and investors.

If you are looking at a short term development, then buying for the right price is certainly your paramount priority, as the developer is not able to rely on a rising property market currently and probably not for quite some time. Once that property is secured then ensuring quality of design and finish is vital, as reselling into a flat market, your property has to stand out from the crowd. Careful management of budget and duration

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of the development are also critical to ensure that all profits are maximized.

One other factor which is vital to discuss is the availability of finance. Whilst interest rates and certainly the Bank of England base rate at an all time low, the availability of finance has tightened with lending criteria’s becoming even more stringent. For the longer term property investor, looking to purchase buy to let property, there is also a tax rise coming in 2017, as buy-to-let mortgage interest relief is axed and replaced with a 20% credit. This is on top of the 3% stamp duty tax hike that came into effect in April of this year. For buy to let investors this represents a double problem, making finance harder to obtain and future taxation more onerous. Having said that demand for rental stock has always been high in Brighton & Hove; and with rents set to increase as landlords try to offset tax implications, sensible yields can still be made. Long term opportunities are always there, if you can obtain finance or are fortunate enough not to need finance.

And life for the canny property developer continues, with great adversity comes great opportunity. As the Brexit machine trundles on, the volume of property sales reduce and property stock increases there will be inevitable opportunities that come out of the woodwork. So buy in the right location, thoroughly go through your numbers, ensure the design and finish are of the highest levels and identify your target resale market at the beginning of the project and success will hopefully follow. John Robinson www.living-properties.co.uk

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Burgess Hill ÂŁ899,950 The Gables is a fine detached Edwardian residence of character set well back from the road approached by an in and out block paved driveway offering parking for numerous vehicles. The beautifully presented bright and well proportioned interior incorporates a splendid double aspect sitting room with fine period style fireplace and wide bay window to the front, a study, a superb double glazed living room/conservatory with vaulted ceiling and doors to the rear garden, a separate dining room, an excellent comprehensively fitted kitchen with breakfast room complete with appliances plus a useful utility area. On the first floor there are 4 good size bedrooms with a luxury refitted en suite shower room to the master bedroom and a family bathroom. There is an attached garage (24'6 in length) and a delightful fully enclosed rear garden extending to about 60 feet in length arranged with a paved sun terrace and well tended lawn enclosed by established herbaceous borders stocked with an abundance of colourful flowers, plants and shrubs.

42 High Street Lindfield 01444 484564 10

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www.markrevill.com

Haywards Heath ÂŁ1,100,000 A delightful, well presented detached family house set in a good size plot with an abundance of established trees, shrubs and enclosed by hedging providing exceptional privacy and seclusion. The house features a well fitted kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, a fine sitting room with feature fireplace and an opening with bespoke glass folding doors leading to a conservatory. There is also a separate dining room, useful family room and a downstairs cloakroom. On the first floor are 4 double bedrooms with the main bedroom benefitting from an en-suite bathroom. Outside there is an attached double garage approached via along driveway with additional parking and secluded front and rear gardens.

42 High Street Lindfield 01444 484564

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www.markrevill.com 11

Crosby & Woods | SOLICITORS 75 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2BB www.crosbywoods.co.uk

Do you need legal advice from only very highlyqualified and experienced legal professionals? Do you value personal service, speaking to your solicitor face-to-face, having easy access to your solicitor by phone and email, receiving advice in plain English? If yes, then please contact us for expert legal advice on a wide range of legal matters including:

Specialist and results driven legal advice

Wills, Probate & Powers of Attorney, Family Law (Divorce, Civil Partnership Dissolution, Financial Disputes, Children Matters) Residential Conveyancing and Commercial Conveyancing) Personal injury - all forms of accident claims Bespoke Criminal Defence Advice Civil Litigation / Debt Recovery

We offer a free first interview to discuss your matter at home. Hospital visits by appointment are avabilable too We also offer: Fixed Fees No Win No Fee Agreements Privately Paying Agreements

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WATERFALL Audio

If you love design and technology, building a contemporary house under the sun, in the south of France becomes the logical thing to do!

stablished in France in 1996 by Cedric Aubriot, Waterfall provides unique designs, and high-end sound performance. Innovation is their tradition; patented technologies guarantee perfect sound reproduction throughout their range of products. New products have been developed for private home theatres and Waterfall is now distributed in over 40 countries and has received many awards worldwide for design and acoustic excellence. Multizone presents the film of its ‘Image and Sound Architecture’ concept for this prestigious installation. This project had to meet ergonomics and ‘ease of use’ for the customer’s family, across all generations living there and having use of the systems, therefore it had to be based on very intuitive technologies. They had countless meetings with their customer to determine what their expectations and feelings were, until they all agreed to the final plans before execution. This delivered the ambitious project of a fully automated home, where Multizone focused on the integration of all audio video systems, multimedia, lighting and shades control, fire alarm and security systems, video surveillance, telephones, infrared cameras and the complete design and conception of a private dedicated home cinema room, using a James Bond theme. All the electronics are condensed in a technical rack with all the cabling installed at early planning and building stages. All controls are through iPad, iPhones.

Following an acoustic study by Multizone, various solutions had to be developed to match the design without damaging the acoustics. Reflecting acoustic panels were installed, to match the décor, in strategic areas. A custommade sound absorbing acoustical fabric panel was positioned at the back of the room featuring a ‘James Bond’ print. A custom-made carpet was also commissioned with the special logo print to meet the customer’s individual requirement. www.xclusiveav.com

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All the electronics are condensed in a technical rack with all the cabling installed at early planning and building stages. All controls are through iPad, iPhones.

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“Head and shoulders above other high street agents.” Heather (seller)

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A Solicitors With A Difference:

Crosby & Woods

Located on Church Road in Hove, Crosby & Woods Solicitors are a successful family-run firm renowned for their professional, friendly and jargon-free approach. We spoke with partner (and working mum) Lucinda Dore about a firm that has a passion for helping Brighton residents firmly at its core.

Tell us about Crosby & Woods?

We pride ourselves on being a local, family owned and run firm that is well known and well regarded by the residents of Brighton and Hove. Our clients old and new become repeat customers as they are people who like to get to know and trust their solicitor and who place a premium on building a long-term and successful relationship with us. Crosby & Woods have a team of likeminded solicitors and support staff who all understand the real world and who try to avoid legal jargon as clients value plain speaking and clear advice they can understand.

What services do you offer?

We specialise in a range of legal services including residential and commercial conveyancing, probate (including wills and lasting powers of attorneys), personal injury, family law and crime. I personally specialise in private crime and also undertake conveyancing work for select clients. Being a working mum, you’re able to work flexibly and ultimately be in contact with clients outside 9 to 5 office hours. How does this benefit those seeking your advice? My clients appreciate the open and flexible approach I have and the fact they are able to contact me at unusual times and actually

get a response! So many clients value working with individuals like myself as they very often, in the past, have been hugely frustrated and fed up when dealing with some other firms where an impersonal call centre mentality seemed to be in operation. They just want to know their solicitor is a real person who is genuinely pleased to receive their calls and to answer their questions clearly and quickly!

What do you think makes Crosby & Woods so different from other firms?

We pride ourselves on employing experienced solicitors and support staff so that our clients can always be reassured their case will only ever be dealt with by an experienced solicitor who genuinely understands their needs and who wants to achieve the best outcome possible for them. Unlike many firms, we provide this expertise on a one-to-one basis to always ensure consistency and excellence throughout. We often offer a free first consultation and always treat our clients as we would like to be treated ourselves; with respect and dignity. That ethos is one everyone at the firm shares with us now and always.

What does the future hold for Crosby & Woods?

The firm started off with one room and one computer and has grown slowly but surely

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every year since. We will expand to be able to serve more local residents who are in need of legal advice. The firm place an importance on raising money for local charities.

When’s your next fundraising event? We are always keen to support local charities as we live in the area that we work in and so we know the great work they do to help those far less fortunate than us. The next charitable challenge for myself and three of our team is an obstacle run on the October 1st to raise money for children’s hospice Chestnut Tree House.

People can donate via our JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/Crosby-Woodssolicitors. We wish Lucinda and her team lots of luck with the fundraiser! If you require advice from the friendly Crosby & Woods team, visit: www.crosbywoods.co.uk Call: 01273 734600 or pop into: 75 Church Rd, Hove. BN3 2BB.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

We often offer a free first consultation and always treat our clients as we would like to be treated ourselves; with respect and dignity. That ethos is one everyone at the firm shares with us now and always.â&#x20AC;?

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Emma Bennett Emma Bennett is a graphic designer from Brighton. She grew up in a very artistic family and studied Art and English at King Alfred’s College in Winchester. She’s been creating delightful art ever since…

How did your company start? I have been producing art for as long as I can remember. I did an art degree combined with English Literature at King Alfred’s in Winchester. My black and white style really started after a very inspirational trip to New York in 2003, where I joined my sister’s art Uni trip. I took endless photos and visited many galleries, I started sketching from the photos on my return, and have continued sketching cities around the world from my photos ever since.

Being a recognised artist, have you done any works for famous people, businesses or attractions? That’s very flattering, but I wouldn’t say I was a recognised artist yet, just starting to get recognised. I have recently produced a sketch of the i360 and plan to do several more. I’d love to be involved in the i360 somehow and showcase my Brighton artwork collection.

How has your company grown to be where it is now? What has contributed to your success? I would say I am very much an up and coming artist. I have squirreled away at this black and white art style for 13 years now, and am finally trying to get it out to the public. People’s positive comments and belief in me have kept me going. About six years ago, the Laughing Dog shop on Brighton Marina took an interest in my art and started selling my prints, so that encouraged me. At what point did you recognise the success of your business?

I wouldn’t say it is successful yet, I need more exposure to make it successful. I’d very much like to be involved more in the art scene and get my work sold in shops, shown in exhibitions and art fairs, displayed in hotels and local businesses. That is my aim.

Houses for years but never had a house to exhibit in, so I was over the moon. I’ve also since built my own photography website so I can easily show people my photos: www. photosbyemmabennett.co.uk Can you remember a stand-out painting that changed your business?

I painted the West Pier at sunset with a murmuration of starlings some years ago. Everyone picked this out as their favourite so I went to the Laughing Dog to get it scanned and buy Giclee prints. It was here the owner asked if I had anymore art as he really liked it. I went back the following week with a collection of stuff and they have sold my artwork ever since. How do you stay relevant and current and continuously meet your consumer needs?

And how has the advent of social media impacted on you? Very much so. I was invited to exhibit at this year’s Artist Open House at The Claremont in Hove because I was discovered on Twitter. I had tweeted a photo of The West Pier at low tide and Brighton Hour re-tweeted it. They were initially interested in my photography (I am a Member of Brighton & Hove Camera Club) but I was on holiday and couldn’t access anymore files to send them so I directed them to my art website. I have wanted to be involved in the Artist Open

I try to build up a variety of work by sketching just about every city I visit, nearly always from my own photos. I have collections of art sketched for Barcelona and Valencia, New York, San Francisco, Vienna, Rome and Venice, Bruges, Amsterdam, Lisbon and so on. I try to stay current by sketching new places. If I see a particular place has a lot of interest I will sketch more. Which project/s are you really excited about? I will be exhibiting at The Claremont in Hove for the winter Artist Open Houses.

I will have a range of my prints and cards there, as well as some canvas prints. In the near future I am planning to sketch more local scenes such as Kemp Town, The Lanes, Hove and more of the i360. Why are you different to other businesses within your industry?

I offer the service that you can choose any background colour for your print. All my sketches are in black and white, so you can then pick one background colour of your choice. Choose your image at www. artbyemmabennett.co.uk. I mainly print A2 and A3 size Giclee prints. I sell cards and have started selling canvas prints. I hope to sell my work in more formats in the future to suit different budgets.

How has Brighton helped your business? Do you feel the city’s high levels of creativity have contributed to your success? I love living in Brighton and Hove and have always been inspired by the place. There is so much to sketch and photograph. I think the ever-changing landscape will always inspire me. The Artist Open Houses are fantastic – my yearly highlight – and with so much talent you can’t possibly fail to be inspired. It’s a great way to meet other artists too. I love the MADE art and craft fairs at The Corn Exchange too. www.artbyemmabennett.co.uk

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HOME COMFORT STUFF TO MAKE YOUR HOUSE AT HOME Compiled by Kasia | The Styling Agency

1/ Pendant Lamp Modo Wire Round, £79.99 England At Home, Brighton 2/ Neville Cushion by Jamie Mitchell, £30 Edited, Brighton 3/ Meraki Candle Sandalwood & Jasmine, £15, Abode Living, Brighton 4/ Leff Tone wallclock, £99 Rume, Brighton 5/ Havelock, Price excluding fabric: £3881 Rume, Brighton 6/ Louis Poulsen PH 80 floorlamp, £664 The Lollipop Shoppe, Brighton 7/ Tiffany Style Round Mirror Silver/Gold, £265 Pappilion, Brighton 8/ Compagnie de Provence diffuser Cotton Flower, £25, Cologne & Cotton, Brighton 9/ Silver Shelf Unit with Straps, £224, 14 North Street, Brighton 10/ Gauguin Papillon by Kitty McCall £75, Unlimted Design Shop & Gallery, Brighton

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As the new season evenings draw-in, create a cosy living room to relax in.

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Fine dining in North Laine Issac At is a cross between a top-end gourmet five-star eatery, but with a laid-back feel that connects you directly with the kitchen. Offering a timeless but ever-changing menu inspired by the seasons and the local agricultural bounty, Issac’s eponymous head chef and inspiration behind the restaurant and concept is a young and dynamic individual that started in humble pop-up surroundings building his skills and food knowledge into this new swanky incarnation in the heart of the Brighton North Laine.

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e were there for the opening night which featured a special tasting menu. The buzz was enough to make us go for all six courses.. The six courses were as follows: roasted butternut squash, yeast extract, seeds, rosemary oil - mon kfish, cauliflower and sauce vierge – crispy pork belly and smoked broccoli – roast chicken, salt baked celeriac and gem lettuce – hand-picked blackberry and cucumber sorbet – strawberries, honey pink peppercorn ice cream and milk foam.

The pre-starter: a dainty nest encased fleshy pink monkfish morsels with baby silverskin onions (a wonderful start to get your tastebuds going); handmade warm tiny bread buns with Issacs handmade smoked or salted butter pieces. In addition to the amazing food, we sampled various Sussex sparkling wines poured by our experienced sommelier and restaurant manager Alex. Back to the food! Next up was roasted butternut squash sprinkled with seeds drizzled in rosemary oil which arrived as a golden coloured butternut

squash medal with piled shavings on the top and toasted seeds sprinkled around the plate. Next was the tender monkfish cooked to perfection that worked well with the light vierge sauce. I don’t think I’ve ever tasted fish as beautifully cooked as this! The crispy pork belly was astonishing, just the right amount to really kick this menu into action, sprinkled and scattered with broccoli buds.

Miniature parcels of roasted chicken arrived next with delicately baked little gem lettuce pieces singed on the edges with salt celeriac which were arranged as four little beautiful parcels on the plate.

We then handed hand-picked (by Issac and the gang) blackberries and cucumber sorbet served on a shell to cleanse the palate. Dessert was an explosion of strawberries!

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The most amazing honey pink peppercorn ice cream dusted with dried milk foam shavings with crushed and scattered chopped fresh strawberries.

The team: Issac is the head chef creator of Issac At. Alex is the restaurant manager and sommelier and Krysten welcomed us as the Front of House Waitress. G, also known as George, is the pastry chef and Ollie is commis chef. The open kitchen is a great way to engage with the chefs whilst they work their magic with their passion for presentation in preparing your dish. This little hidden gem is perfect for dining with friends and family. Well worth a visit.

Isaac At 2 Gloucester St, Brighton BN1 4EW 07765 934740

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Photos: Gill Copeland

Photos: Emma Harrel

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THE

Belle Vue The controversy surrounding the British Airways i360 observation tower has been the focus of the press, and locals, since its launch in August. However, beneath the world’s tallest moving viewing tower, and set against a seaside backdrop, is the Belle Vue restaurant.

righton’s latest dining addition enjoys an unmistakeable view of the historic West Pier and utilises Sussex produce. Creative director and Masterchef winner, Steven Edwards, is at the heart of this new project.

I was invited for lunch and a tour by events manager, Simon Haffenden, who has been heavily involved with all aspects of the project from the start, ensuring the standard is that of Heritage portfolio and Centre Plate Catering, the team that won the coveted i360 catering contract.

To be honest, I initially could not see or understand the fascination with the i360. However, as I stepped into the futuristic, glass viewing pod and enjoyed a glass of Sussex Nyetimber sparkling wine I felt a childlike excitement. My tour started with a ‘flight’ gliding up 450ft towards the top of the slender structure. The views were spectacular and took my breath away on a beautiful summer’s day and I’m sure it would have done the same whatever the season.

Now, I can appreciate how special this project is to our city and this was before I had even made it below deck to the bustling underground restaurant and full-on events venue. A traditional tearoom standing next to the entrance has been elegantly designed in

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the old West Pier toll booth style. The history of this site dates back to 1866 and has a large decking area with views out to the Channel and all around. The tearoom’s cakes are beautifully presented on a mini tiered stand and I was told the coffee is the best in town. Simon then showed me the i360’s beach-side venue with floor to ceiling glass windows overlooking the shoreline and a terrace ideal for alfresco barbecues, cocktail and canapés style events, or for those simply wanting to soak up the ever changing seaside weather. The space was receiving bookings for weddings, corporate events, and private dining long before its doors opened and with a capacity for 10, up to an impressive 800 guests, this venue is set to be booked out for years to come. As my tour came to an end, Simon took me through to the restaurant. The Belle Vue was much larger than I expected and can be accessed from the beach or the i360. It’s buzzy, light-filled and easy going, delivering panoramic views of the city and the sea.

Space is of the essence and American diner style booths in tiffany blue line the back wall. There are further tables both inside and out on the terrace. The decor is modern, crisp and the simplicity allows the dramatic view of the West Pier to take centre stage.

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The space is unique in its ability to cater for relaxing, laid-back family lunches or sophisticated evenings with friends. But this setting easily lends itself to a romantic night dining with that special someone too.

Sussex has some of the UK’s finest produce, from cheese to wine, and being on the coast the Belle Vue fully supports our local fishermen too. Its kitchen takes great pride in creating seasonal based menus.

Like in many modern establishments, their diner-style table menu doubles up as a placemat. It covers all areas from breakfast to ‘large plates’ and mini bar bites, and its range is substantial, but not overwhelming. The Steven Edwards Etch Burger experience was most appealing with a story on the back of the menu. The beef being ‘lovingly reared’ and the bun exclusively made for the Belle Vue all washed down with a local cider. However, despite being tempted, I thought I’d start with a healthy buttermilk chicken salad. A delicious concoction of chargrilled courgettes, roasted garlic, heritage tomato, whipped avocado and a lavender dressing. I think the tour and the excitement of the i360 had made be ravenous and whilst usually I’m a one-course kind of gal, I could not resist ordering the 28-day aged

beef pichana. The steak was cooked to perfection and the Jimmy McCurry dressing was a zestful accompaniment with fresh oregano, parsley, garlic and pepper flakes.

This is contemporary British food with a twist and does not disappoint. The prices are reasonable and there’s a certain satisfaction as a Sussex resident to know that many of the ingredients are grown, reared or brewed on our doorstep, or as I was told “as far as the eye can see, from the top of the I360”. The dessert menu was impressive and I cannot wait to go back and try the decadent chocolate tart that the table next to me were raving about. But, I opted to finish my lunch with the British Airways i360 Sling. There is no shortage of restaurants and watering holes in Brighton. The Belle Vue stands out from the crowd offering a unique and special experience; wholesome local food and unobstructed views of the now treasured and sadly disappearing Grade I listed West Pier.

Dining at the Belle Vue is a culinary journey, both satisfying and memorable.

The Belle Vue stands out from the crowd offering a unique and special experience; wholesome local food and unobstructed views of the now treasured and sadly disappearing Grade Ⅰ listed West Pier.

Lindsay Hills

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What makes Buddies CafĂŠ Bar special? Our Delicious Food Served 24 2Hours a Day

Situated opposite Brighton promenade, Buddies boasts a panoramic view of Brighton beach life and is near to all major venues, hotels, clubs and of course the historic Lanes area..

Buddies 24 hour Cafe Bar 46-48 Kings Road, Brighton seafront 66

Tel: (01273) 323 600 ABSOLUTE www.buddies24hour.net

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Curry Leaf Café Chef Kanthi Kiran Thamma began his culinary journey as an apprentice at the Taj Hotel in Goa in 1996 and after a variety of catering roles in southern India, Switzerland and the USA, he moved to the UK in 2007 where he became senior chef de partie/pastry chef at the Imperial Hotel in Torquay. In April 2014, he with teamed up with journalist Euan Sey to open his first restaurant, Curry Leaf Café and the following year opened a second, at the Temple Bar pub on Western Road. You can now sample his wares from a kiosk at Brighton station too.

What makes your restaurant and food stand out from the pack? It’s the food we offer, which is predominantly south Indian and features a lot of classic street food from regions such as Andhra Pradesh and Nellore. We call ourselves a cafe because we have a small menu, an informal atmosphere and a fun approach to dining.

Tell us your favourite ingredient to cook with? Beetroot, corn, cardamom and black pepper. Did you cook when you were growing up, if so who inspired you? Yes, my mum taught me some simple after-school snacks that I could make when I got home from studying. After a while I started bringing friends back so that I could show off my cooking skills. Professionally, it could be anyone from the guy that sells food on the streets to my young chefs who keep throwing in great ideas and make me think and push myself. Chef Celina Tio was my mentor when I was training in America and I also look up to UK-based chef Alfred Prasad, who was the youngest Indian to win a Michelin star – and kept it for 13 years.

Did you always want to be a chef? Yes, by the time I was 13. My family had trouble understanding exactly a chef is or does, as there weren’t any cookery programmes in India at that time. But they supported me are proud of what I have achieved. What got you into cooking: cookbooks, TV, your parents?

We grew up in a remote suburb without access to cookbooks, or even a TV until I was 14. My mum was my biggest influence, sending me to the local butchers every Sunday to get the meat and clearly explaining to me what I should look for when I was buying spices.

Where did you train? I started my career what is probably was India’s first Italian Restaurant, in 1997, then moved to Switzerland to study and work at a ski resort. That’s when I got headhunted by Disney World to work at their Florida resort, under the tutelage of Chef Celina. I also did a few months on Disney Cruise Lines but quickly got bored of mass-producing food and returned to India. I would definitely recommend the Taj group of hotels in India for their high standards of training, and also Walt Disney World for their International Culinary Programme. The best piece of advice you would give to a home cooking enthusiast? Do not over complicate – cook what you are comfortable cooking, and try and have fun while you do it. It can be a great way to relax and unwind if you keep things simple. Funniest kitchen incident? One of the Indian chefs I worked with hadn’t heard of scotch bonnet chilies before, and assumed they were the same as normal red chilies. He brought the sauce around for all of us to taste, and none of us could utter a word for the next 20 minutes. The head chef almost choked to death. Though it wasn’t funny at the time, we did have a good laugh about it after.

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What makes cooking in Brighton special? Brighton’s food scene is thriving thanks to the influence of young chefs introducing new culinary trends: La Choza, Bincho Yakatori, The Set, ISAAC at, Flank, Semolina… then there’s the brilliant Terre a Terre representing the massive vegetarian community in the city. Sussex in general has some amazing food and drink businesses that are making waves internationally such as Ridgeview Wines and Blackdown Spirits. The Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival is also key to the great local food scene, bringing together restaurants, chefs and suppliers in a really fun way.

Future plans? I’ve just returned from a week of events in Guernsey at the annual food festival, and am now working on developing cooking lessons for a very famous international tech company. In November, we have a pop-up planned in Den Haag, Holland, where which we’ll take over the Michelin Bib-winning Basaal restaurant. We also have a big project in the city which will launch in late November – I can’t tell you any more at this stage, I’m afraid. Plus, we have a number of events planned for next year, including one in Spain. The diary is looking pretty full!

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Fun For The Whole Family: Weekend Road Trips Get packing those autumnal layers, dig out your favourite tunes and grab the kids for a road trip to make some unforgettable memories! Venture across Surrey and Sussex for a day out with a difference or head further afield to explore attractions in London and Cornwall. Ready for an adventure? Here’s a few of our favourite family-friendly days out that will keep those cries of ‘I’m bored’ firmly at bay.

Go Ape

Thorpe Park

RAF Museum London

Just over 21 miles from Brighton is Go Ape, with its two adrenaline-fuelled treetop adventures. Located in the heart of Tilgate Park, with a large lake, forest and endangered species nature centre; there’s so much to see, do and explore. For those over one metre in height, take to the tree tops for an hour of obstacles and two zip wires, guaranteed to thrill the whole family. If you have children over ten, go for the full Tree Top Adventure which will see you and the kids embarking on zip wires, Tarzan swings, rope ladders, crossings and so much more! Just remember to wear comfy flat shoes and practical clothes. Gloves are also great to pack, although you can buy them on the day!

Wet Wet Wet (a water ride of chutes and flumes). Angry Birds 4D Experience, I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here, Derren Brown’s Ghost Train… there’s something to get both big and small kids alike screaming and whooping at Surrey’s Thorpe Park! Go for the day (it’s just 60 miles from central Brighton) or continue the fun with a night’s stay on the beautiful Beaumont Estate, or in the quirky Thorpe Shark Hotel, where you enter through a shark’s mouth!

The RAF Museum London is one of just two museums in the UK that tells the story of the Royal Air Force through inspiring collections and interactive activities. It is located on the historic Hendon Aerodrome site, 30 minutes from central London. See the designs of early aircraft and be amazed by the latest jets and military aircraft, with over 100 aircraft on site to marvel at. Then feel part of the action in the 4D cinema and with Our Finest Hour, a sound and light show. Best of all, entry and activities are completely free!

Thorpe Park, Staines Road, Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 8PN www.thorpepark.com

Go Ape Crawley, Tilgate Park, Tilgate Drive, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 5PQ

www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london

www.goape.co.uk

RAF Museum London, Grahame Park Way, London, NW9 5LL

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guaranteed to thrill the whole family

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ABSOLUTE www.fountainashurst.pub

ZSL London Zoo

Science Museum

BFI IMAX

Get up close and personal with lions, lemurs, gorillas, penguins, spiders and so many more amazing animals at ZSL London Zoo! Tour the park and learn about the magnificent residents who live there with a vast range of daily activities; watch the tropical birds eat their breakfast and the penguins put on a show and treat the giraffes to a teatime snack! There’s even plenty to do during rainy autumnal days too, with many indoor animal houses – including an aquarium, Rainforest Life and Reptile House – to discover. For Halloween half-term, the zoo has a spooky schedule of activities lined up to make visitors of all ages scream with delight. Join them for creepy crafts, a pumpkin trail and meet the animals famous for haunting Halloween!

Another fantastic, free place to visit that’s guaranteed to get minds working! From interactive exhibitions to 3D film screenings in the IMAX Theatre; London’s Science Museum offers a day out with an inspiring difference. Just a few activities not to miss are Engineer Your Future (an interactive display aimed at teens thinking about a future career in engineering), Exploring Space (a gallery showcasing out-of-this-world objects – including a full-size replica of Eagle; the lander that took astronauts Armstrong and Aldrin to the moon in 1969!) and Pattern Pod (a multi-sensory area for children under eight to learn about patterns through play).

The biggest screen in Britain is home to the latest IMAX blockbuster movies, as well as educational presentations – giving families plenty of choice for a great day out! Only minutes from London Waterloo, the BFI IMAX is the perfect place to feel part of the action! From Space Station 3D to Under the Sea 3D, there’s a wide range of educational films to see on a screen almost as high as five double-decker buses, that will educate and entertain you – whatever your age!

ZSL London Zoo, Regent’s Park, London, NW1 4RY

Science Museum, Exhibition Road in South Kensington, London, SW7 2DD

BFI IMAX, 1 Charlie Chaplin Walk, London SE1 8XR www.bfi.org.uk/bfi-imax

www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo

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01273 326892 ABSOLUTE www.aberdeensteakhousebrighton.com

The London Eye

SEA LIFE London

Eden Project

Promising ‘a view you’ll never forget’ high above the capital on The London Eye! Take in the city’s iconic landmarks and watch everyday life unfold before your eyes on-board the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel. Before boarding, don’t miss the 4D Cinema Experience and its four-minute film, showcasing London as you’ve never seen it before! All included in your ticket price. The London Eye, Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7PB

Located next to the London Eye is SEA LIFE London; home to sharks, colourful clownfish, turtles and more magnificent creatures of the sea! Many species are on the endangered list, giving you the opportunity to get up close and personal with fish and mammals you may not ever encounter again. Follow in the footsteps of intrepid film crews from the BBC’s Frozen Planet in Frozen Planet: Face to Face, cutting edge scent, sounds and visuals transport you to frozen worlds and face-to-face with polar bears and orcas. Learn even more about the aquarium and the fascinating species that live there with feeding sessions and informative talks – there’s so much happening under the sea!

TCornwall’s Eden Project is nestled in a crater and in large biomes houses the largest rainforest in captivity! The Project (an educational charity) hosts all-year round events and exhibitions to wow green-fingered guests aged from two to a 102. Don’t miss the chance to walk amongst the rainforest canopy, get outdoors in the gardens or fly through the sky on England’s largest and fastest zip wire! Coming up over the next few months, the Eden Project has Halloween half-term events, an outdoor ice rink and the Enchanted Eden winter festival for families to enjoy!

www.londoneye.com

SEA LIFE London Aquarium, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London, SE1 7PB www.visitsealife.com/london

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Eden Project, Bodelva, Cornwall, PL24 2SG

www.edenproject.com Shelley Welti

Street Style Brighton fashionistas and street stylers showcase daily trends and looks. Spotted by our guest stylist Kasia at The Styling Agency

no.

Sader, Graffiti Artist

Colourfulfills Spotted whilst creating some amazing wall art, this graffiti artist is the epitome of functional cool. Check out his art down by Black Rock, near the Marina. Outfit: Zoo York. Shoes: Asos. Ear stretchers

LOVE #nofilter

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Holly, Manager

Typographic Playfully sweet with tongue-in-cheek slogan. Ultra comfy yet fiercely distinct. This bold and graphic look cuts right through the crowd.

Xiaoyu Guo, Graduate

Understated This friendly banking and finance graduate displays a cool, clean look. An understated style you can sport seven days a week.

Outfit: T-Shirt: REDMUTHA. Jeans: Cheap MondayTrainers: Nike Low Blazers Miami edition Necklace: Topshop

Outfit: Coat: Sandro. Shirt: Ralph Lauren. Bag: D&G. Trainers: Adidas Follow Kasia on: Facebook@thestylingagency Pinterest@makeupstylepro Instagram@thestylingagency

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RETROSPECTION

1. Hermionie Plain Swing Coat, Collectif £125

Nieve Birdcage Veil Hat, Collectif, £34

MICHAEL Michael Kors Natalie, £390

autumn

STYLE

Veronique Branquinho Classic heels - rubino, Zalando, £304

Rosie Hat, Collectiff, £23

Fahion courtesy of Collectiff, Brighton

The subtle elegance of original vintage or retro inspired fashion brings a dab of chic to a woman’s wardrobe. Sumptuous fabrics and figure flattering cuts take on a new twist. Get set to raid Nan’s attic or simply shop this look book.

Hermione Swing Coat Collectif, £125

Vintage Winter Dress Beyond Retro, £28

L.K. Bennett Sevina, £325

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Photography by Michelle Scott

Choose red for bombshell style Timeless dress £199 / Black satin Mavis Shoes £79 / Black Fascinator £149

If you’re stuck between a frock and a hard place, head to Brighton and discover Pretty Eccentric the home of old fashion glamour...

Pretty Eccentric, 10 Bond Street, Brighton, BN1 1RD

www.prettyeccentric.co.uk

j DUBROVNIK

Weekend Getaway When one thinks of the traditional family holiday, scenes of all singing, all dancing entertainment teams, manic kids’ clubs and overcrowded swimming pools come to mind; a daunting and rather scary prospect for any new parents who haven’t quite let go of their adult-centric past lives.

n this issue I go on a journey with Hilton to discover, together with my chirpy 11 month year old daughter and willing husband, the enchanting city of Dubrovnik and their baby and adult-friendly hotel, The Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik. This is a destination where couples can escape to for calm but adventure-filled precious family times away, before they have to give in to the imminent world of kids clubs that lies ahead.

The Croatian city of Dubrovnik is located in the region of Dalmatia on the Adriatic Sea and is not only one of the most prominent holiday destinations in the Europe, but also a member of the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. George Bernard Shaw said of this city; “those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik,” as well as, famously, describing it as “the pearl of the Adriatic”. Visitors to the majestic destination never fail to return with tales of unrivalled beauty and movie set magical adventures and the most aesthetically dazzling of Game of Thrones scenes were filmed within the Old Town walls. However, to truly understand what the hype is all about, you have to see it all with your own eyes.

“The superior training Hilton offers their staff is very apparent. “ 82

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George Bernard Shaw said of this city; “those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik,” as well as, famously, describing it as “the pearl of the Adriatic”

Where to stay The Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik Officially regarded as springboard of modern tourism in Dubrovnik, the landmark Hotel Imperial Dubrovnik was constructed in 1895. This magnificent hotel is located on the doorstep of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and only metres from the historic Pile Gate, so you can explore the fortified walls and all the treasures that lie within them with ease. Thanks to the hotels raised prime location, Hilton offer stunning views over the medieval Old Town and Adriatic Sea and accommodation that is just a short walk away from the exclusive Banje Beach. Dubrovnik Cilipi International Airport is only 14 miles away and so transfers are short, fuss-free and relatively inexpensive. The hotel offers a perfect blend of late 19th century charm with the latest technology, mixing old-world warmth and heritage colours with cool wooden and marble décor. From the moment you step foot in to the hotel, you are greeted with the utmost professionalism by staff. The superior training Hilton offers their staff is very apparent. Traveling with a baby can be a potentially stressful scenario and so it was incredibly settling to be welcomed with a smile, offered as much help as we required with luggage and a swift yet informative check-in process.

C 2016 Hilton Hotels & Resorts

If the lobby area and staff aren’t impressive enough, the guest rooms themselves are truly spectacular. Our Executive Room was palatial with high ceilings, double aspect windows and possibly the largest double bed I have ever come across. My little princess had her own luxury wooden carved cot bed and ample room to play in this baby-friendly setting. The bright and airy guest rooms offered picturesque views of the city and the azure Adriatic Sea and featured a romantic balcony, which served as a perfect retreat for my husband, together with a bottle of Croatian wine, when little one had retired for the evening. The room featured Mediterranean decor and an impressively regal and spacious marble bathroom. Guests staying in an executive room or a suite can enjoy free high speed Wi-Fi, exclusive access to the Executive Lounge. Here, you can savour a breakfast and help yourself to complimentary drinks and canapés throughout the day.

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The Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik offers young families all the amenities required to ensure every comfort is right there on their doorstep; such a reassurance when away from home.

C 2016 Hilton Hotels & Resorts

The Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik offers young families all the amenities required to ensure every comfort is right there on their doorstep; such a reassurance when away from home. The little tadpoles can let off some energy in the luxurious indoor pool with domed glass ceiling, whilst (if the little boss allows), precious adult time can be spent at the hotel Spa. Treat yourself to restoring massage treatments and/or training with a personal instructor. Enjoy total refreshment and relaxation performed with expertise. The health club’s prestigious and dedicated team has over 20 years’ experience in providing skilled, professional VIP treatments with a personalized approach. The hotel offers an excellent concierge service, providing guests with information on local amenities, day trips and tours. With so very many options available, and so many tour operators dotted throughout the city giving visitors the hard-sell, it’s great to hear non-pushy and unbiased advice. Where to dine

Porat Restaurant Breakfast at the Hotel Imperial Dubrovnik is taken in the main ‘Porat’ restaurant which offers both inside and outside seating on a

sun-filled secluded terrace. Every taste is catered for, with a plethora of continental, British and American fare available. Kids are sure to be delighted with the American Pancakes, whilst there are more sensible fruits and cereals offered, together with a hearty full English for the Brits. An extensive room service menu is also available should you wish to dine out on your scenic balcony or in room. By night, The Porat Restaurant and Terrace comes alive with exquisite food and hospitality until 11pm. Savour delicious Mediterranean cuisine with a contemporary twist from the seasonally inspired menu, developed by their executive chef, Serdal Altun. All the dishes are created using ingredients sourced from the very best local produce and the menus are complemented by a specially selected list of Croatian and international wines.

We joined the fun of the Friday speciality night which offered a delicious BBQ beneath the stars, however there is also unlimited Mediterranean fare available on Mondays and on Wednesdays they offer a Dalmatian cuisine buffet. After dinner, as our little holidaymaker snoozed in her buggy, we were lucky enough to enjoy cocktails in the sophisticated

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surroundings of The Lounge Bar (especially the dedicated Pommery Champagne Bar!) or the Lobby Bar out on the Terrace.

Nautika Restaurant If you want to venture further afield, then only a hop, skip and a jump away from the hotel is the Nautika Restaurant, housed in the former Dubrovnik School of Maritime Studies. This must-visit restaurant lies on the very edge of the sea at Pile, alongside the western entrance to Dubrovnik’s Old City. From its unique terraces, diners can enjoy a truly one of a kind view of the Adriatic and the fortresses of Lovrijenac and Bokar. The restaurant’s chef, Mario Bunda, leads a team whose varied offerings include lobster from the Dalmatian island of Vis and delicacies from the local waters of the Adriatic.

Panorama Restaurant & Bar Reachable by cable car, and located on the celebrated hill of Srđ, Panorama Restaurant & Bar is the ultimate spot for rich Mediterranean cuisine at an altitude that offers a spectacular view of the Old City, the island of Lokrum, the bay of Lapad and the Elaphite Islands.

E X C L U S I V E £ 2 5 T I C K E T O F F E R * F O R A B S O L U T E R E A D E R S. QUOTE ‘ABSOLUTE25’ AT THE CHECKOUT

D I S C O V E R T H E N E X T B I G T H I N G

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Where to visit

C 2016 Hilton Hotels & Resorts

Despite the perceived huge amount of steps, it’s actually very easy to walk in and around Dubrovnik’s Old Town with a pram and even easier to navigate around it. There are several routes that can be taken that are sloped and its compact size ensures that you can get from one gate to another in no time at all and. However, with so many fascinating sites to see and explore, the Old Town will keep you occupied for a number of days.

Must-see attractions include the Dubrovnik Old Town Walls, originally constructed in the 10th century and fortified considerably in 1453 and Pile Gate, the traditional entrance to the Old Town containing a statue of St Blaise, Dubrovnik’s patron saint. The magnificent cathedral in Dubrovnik dates from 1673 and designed by Roman architect Andrea Buffalini to replace the original 12th century cathedral which was destroyed by the earthquake. The

cathedral includes an Assumption Of Our Lady/The Virgin painting/polyptych that has been assumed to have been painted by Titian and the Treasury of the cathedral is home to the skull of St Blaise which has been encased in a jewel-encrusted crown. The Old Town Harbour is lined with picturesque dining and drinking spots and plays host to traditional and modern seafaring vessels, including a magnificent replica of a traditional Karaka ship from the era of the Republic of Dubrovnik.

The top of any bucket-list for Dubrovnik must be a ride on the Dubrovnik Cable Car. It is one of Dubrovnik’s famed attractions – built in 1969 – which rises up to the top of Mount Srd above the city, giving visitors a chance to take in some (even more) spectacular views of the Old Town and the shoreline. As well as

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the Panorama Restaurant and Bar, Museum of the Croatian War of Independence can also be found in this must-visit location. Rooms at the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik start from €119 (£104) per night based on two adults and a child sharing. Visit www.hilton.com. Phone 08705 909 090. Book direct for the best rates and join Hilton Honors for access to special deals and free WiFi – www.hhonors. com. Photography of Dubrovnik courtesy of the Croatian National Tourist Board.

Victoria Emerson

Bohemia

Grand Cafe â?&#x2013; Late Lounge Love food? Love coffee? Love music? Love Bohemiaâ&#x20AC;Ś

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Traditional Afternoon Tea is also served daily from 3pm till 6pm

(booking is advisable for afternoon tea.)

Open hours 9am-1am (Sunday-Thursday) Till 3am Friday and Saturday Food is served everyday from 9am-9pm (except Saturday's 8pm)

www.bohemiabrighton.co.uk 54-55 Meeting House Lane, Brighton Telephone: 01273 777770 Free wifi and newspapers. Follow us on Twitter & Facebook

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BRI GH TO N HAR BO U R HO TEL, 6 4 K I NG ’S RD, B RI G HT ON, EAST SUSSEX BN 1 1N A www.bri gh to n -h arbour- hot el .co.uk 01273 323221

London Lifestyle The Absolute Best Tickets in Town – London Theatre Special

utumn really is the most exciting time of year. The summer tans are fading, the bucket and spade holiday from a few weeks ago is now a distant memory, and the flimsy summer clothes are being packed away ready to make way for cosier attire. There’s a slight chill in the air and as our balmy warm days come to a close, there is a new wave of excitement and expectation of the glorious days that lie ahead. The changing of the seasons leads the way to the months ahead full of expectation and promise of

glorious crisp autumnal days. Autumn is all things golden brown. It’s the start of new school terms. It’s the beginning of gorgeous cutting-edge fashion trends, with London boutiques bristling with fabulous new season clothes in gorgeous rich fabrics. It’s London’s wonderful array of restaurants bursting with fresh seasonal menus. It’s London’s nightlife sparkling with entertainment and the promise of exciting nights out on the town.

This gorgeous golden new season is upon us, so treat yourself to tickets to London’s best-loved shows this autumn. The lights, the stages, the costumes and scenery. Forget Broadway, London has some of the best theatres in the world. Make of day of it and have lunch by the river, indulge in retail therapy, then catch one of these West End musicals or plays. Try and snap up matinee tickets or last-minute tickets on the day for great savings. Here’s the Absolute guide to the best tickets in town.

Mamma Mia

The Book of Mormon

The Entertainer

Mamma Mia is in its 17th year on stage. Be swept off to sunnier climes with this smash hit musical of Abba songs telling a love story set in a Greek Island paradise.

This hilarious comical musical from the creators of South Park is a must-see. Explicit language sails close to the wind in terms of all things PC but will make anyone with a sense of humour roar with laughter.

Starring Kenneth Branagh, a modern production of old music halls set against the back-drop of post-war Britain.

Matinee performances: Thursday & Sunday - 3pm Evening performances: Monday to Saturday - 7.45pm Tickets from £27.25. Showing until 4th March 2017 Novello Theatre. Aldwych, London, WC2B 4LD

www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/ Tickets/MammaMia.asp 0845 505 8500

Matinee performances: Wednesday and Saturday - 2.30pm Evening performances: Monday to Saturday - 7.30pm Tickets from £29.75. Showing until December 10th 2016

Prince of Wales Theatre. Coventry Street, London, W1D 6AS www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/ Tickets/TheBookOfMormon.asp 0845 505 8500

John Osborne wrote the play in 1957 at the request of Sir Laurence Olivier and it premiered at London’s Royal Court Theatre, with Olivier in the title role of Archie Rice. Blending the fading world of British music hall with a domestic family drama, this play was an immediate hit and has remained a celebrated classic ever since.

Matinee performances: Wednesday and Saturday - 2.30pm Evening performances: Monday to Saturday - 7.30pm Tickets from: Until November 12th 2016 Garrick Theatre. Charing Cross Road, London, WC2H 0HH

www.garrick.official-theatre.co.uk 0207 492 1548

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This gorgeous golden new season is upon us, so treat yourself to tickets to Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bestloved shows this autumn.

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The Phantom of the Opera

Wicked

This epic love story based in the Paris Opera House has been captivating audiences for 30 years. A beautiful production with music from Andrew Lloyd Webber.

In its dazzling tenth year at The Apollo Theatre. Based right next to Victoria Station, its ideally located and easy to get to. This spectacular musical is based on the 1995 Gregory Maguire novel of the Wizard of Oz’s Wicked Witch of the West and Glenda the Good. If you are a fan of everything Wizard of Oz related, then check out this wonderful musical production.

Matinee performances: Thursday and Saturday -2.30pm Evening performances: Monday to Saturday - 7.30pm Tickets from £23.75. Showing until March 4th 2017

Her Majesty’s Theatre. Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4QL http://www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/ Tickets/PhantomOfTheOpera.asp

Matinee performances: Wednesday and Saturday - 2.30pm Evening performances: Monday to Saturday - 7.30pm. Tickets from: £20.99

Apollo Victoria Theatre. 17 Wilton Road, London SW1V 1LG www.apollovictoriatheatre.org

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Roald Dahl’s deliciously dark tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Willy Wonka comes to life in a new West End musical directed by Sam Mendes.

When Charlie wins a golden ticket to the weird and wonderful Wonka Chocolate Factory, it’s the chance of a lifetime to feast on the sweets he’s always dreamed of. But beyond the gates astonishment awaits, as down the sugary corridors and amongst the incredible edible delights, the five lucky winners discover not everything is as sweet as it seems. Evening performances: Monday to Saturday - 7.30pm Matinee performances: Wednesday and Saturday - 2.30pm Weekday tickets from £17.50. Weekend tickets from £23.50

Theatre Royal. Drury Lane, Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5JF. www.charlieandthechocolatefactory. com/london.php 0844 858 8877

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Forget Broadway, London has some of the best theatres in the world. Make of day of it and have lunch by the river, indulge in retail therapy, then catch one of these West End musicals or plays.

The Libertine

The Lion King

The Nutcracker

A major revival of film turned West End play staring Dominic Cooper, running for ten weeks from September 22nd 2016.

Now in its 16th year in London, this musical is based on the 1994 hugely popular and much-loved Disney animated movie and features music by Elton John and Tim Rice. Performances run Tuesday through to Sunday.

The Royal Ballet perform this muchloved classic dance to Tchaikovsky’s score. Running from November 23rd to January 12th 2017. Tickets from £5.

Theatre Royal, Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4HT

http://www.theatreroyalhaymarket. co.uk/index.html Tickets from £18

The Lyceum Theatre. 21 Wellington Street, WC2E 7RQ

The Royal Opera House. Bow Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9DD www.roh.org.uk

http://lyceum-theatre.co.uk/ Tickets from £47.50

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HONG KONG

Start a love affair with

‘The Sleepless City’ Hong Kong, situated on the south-east coast of China, on the Pearl River Delta and South China Sea, is widely hailed as an addictive, thriving and cosmopolitan city. Blending the old and the new, the spiritual and the commercial and historically, the British and Chinese ways of life, this is an ever-changing and sleepless city. However, despite all its reinventions, Hong Kong’s spirit has never changed. In fact, the same energy and dynamism that turned a group of sleepy fishing villages into a crossroads of international trade is now taking Asia’s world city into the 21st century.

ong Kong as we know it today was born when China’s Qing dynasty government was defeated in the First Opium War in 1842, when it ceded Hong Kong Island to Britain. Within 60 years, Kowloon, the New Territories and 235 outlying islands were also leased to Britain. However, the history of the more than 1,100 square kilometres that Hong Kong now occupies predates the events of the Qing dynasty by more than a thousand years. And, as you explore the city’s colourful heritage, you’ll discover stories of powerful clans, marauding pirates and European traders.

Under the principle of ‘One Country, Two Systems’, Hong Kong became a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China on July 1st 1997. This arrangement allows the city to enjoy a high degree of autonomy, including retaining its capitalist system, independent judiciary and rule of law, free trade and freedom of speech. As you explore every corner of the city, its uniqueness never fails to fascinate. While the majority of the city’s population are Chinese speakers, simply walking the streets will expose you to a medley of Asian and European languages. No matter their nationality, aweinspired visitors arrive every day with a promise; they will eat some of the finest cuisine, they will see sites and make memories that will last a lifetime and they will form a beautiful love-affair with the city, leaving with a new sense of energy, vibrancy and well and truly addicted.

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Flying out Cathay Pacific Airways has just launched the only non-stop service connecting Gatwick and Hong Kong, which makes travelling from Brighton easier than ever. Simply hop on the Gatwick Express, which runs regularly from Brighton Station direct to Gatwick Airport, and you are there in a matter of minutes. Ideally placed to serve their leisure and business travellers, the new four-times-weekly service is the airline’s first long-haul route to feature the brand-new Airbus 350-900 aircraft and operates from Gatwick’s South Terminal. Featuring Business Class, Premium Economy Class and Economy Class seats, Cathay Pacific’s state-of-the-art A350-900 also provides inflight connectivity in all cabin classes for the first time. Passengers are able to use their own mobile devices to browse the internet, send and receive emails, and stay connected on social media, for a small fee. With a real focus on offering passengers more choice and flexibility, the new service provides those living in Brighton a convenient way to travel to Hong Kong and beyond via the airline’s extensive hub in Hong Kong. The premium service provided by Cathay Pacific’s cabin crew, coupled with the airline’s industry-leading inflight entertainment system, means passengers are assured of a superior experience when they travel between Gatwick and Hong Kong. 7

“Hong Kong is the premier gateway to China and we are delighted to welcome Cathay Pacific to Gatwick.  The new flights mark an important milestone in the growth of the Gatwick long-haul network, which now more than ever provides the UK economy with vital routes into the world’s most important markets.”

Guy Stephenson, Chief Commercial Officer, Gatwick Airport

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HONG KONG Cathay Pacific is currently offering return economy fares* from Gatwick to Hong Kong from £469 and to China from £499, so it is a great time to head over. Whatever you do, don’t forget to take some pennies for spending at Gatwick’s Terminal 1; the huge plethora of duty-free shops is enough to make anyone lose track of the time and have to sprint to their departure gate!

Where to stay

Upon arriving at Hong Kong Airport, take the MTR Airport Express straight into the city for about £10 per person. This super convenient service is one of the world’s leading airport railway systems and offers you a swift 35.3km journey to the city, taking only 24 minutes.

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The Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong Formerly known as The Cosmopolitan Hotel Hong Kong, The Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong has recently undergone a top-to-toe makeover, providing the 4-star hotel with a bright new look to all its guest rooms, lobby, and other facilities. Both business and leisure travellers can make the most out of the hotel’s strategic location. The award-winning Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong is conveniently located between Wanchai and Causeway Bay on Hong Kong Island, giving guests easy access to all business, shopping, and sightseeing destinations in the city, and is only an eight-minute walk to the MTR stations and Times Square.

The Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong offers eight types of rooms and suites, ranging up to an impressive 48sq m. The signature Grand Deluxe Course View Room offers a breath-taking view of the racecourse in front of the hotel and all rooms are equipped with 200mbps high-speed Wi-Fi internet. Other facilities include La Maison restaurant that serves Cantonese cuisine, the 3T Bar, a gym room, and various meeting spaces.

By staying at the Dorsett Wanchai, guests enjoy both an urban as well as an authentically ‘Hong Kong vibe’. The hotel’s management team and its ‘beyond thoughtful’ attitude towards its guests is faultless. However, the Dorsett Wanchai also likes to show its playful and quirky side throughout its interior design, making staying at the hotel fun and relaxing no matter what the reason for the travellers’ stay. The next greatest thing following the name change is the crafting of a unique experience for every traveller through personalising each and everyone’s stay with thoughtful services. For instance, the hotel launches the Dorsett Wanchai 3 Wishes to allow guests to pick additional services at no cost to receive a unique and individualised experience while staying at the hotel. These complimentary services include three-hour airport lounge access, a buy-one-and-get-onefree airport transfer, free Michelin star-rated dim sum meal, or free breakfast, to name a few.

Other new service initiatives include an exclusive for female guests; the hotel has introduced a special ‘Ladies’ Love’ Gift Box, containing such travel necessities such as a facial mask, Dorsett’s blue and white nail polisher, Dorsett candle, Dorsett teddy bear key chain, a free hand treatment coupon and shopping discount coupon at popular beauty stores. Hotel guests can also experience the Dorsett Wine Hour every Friday from 6 pm to 7 pm where they can enjoy free-flowing white and red house wine and a selection of fine finger foods. The hotel hasn’t forgotten the kids either; they can get their sugar hit with a free Dorsett Candy Bar every Friday from 6 pm to 7 pm.

“The Dorsett Wanchai is committed to providing a personalised stay for all its guests. We want to create a unique experience by giving extra services, but at no extra cost. We have seen a number of new initiatives rolled out in the past year, including the newly launched Eat & Shop Like a Local guide which offers insider tips to where to find the best food and where to shop to avoid the tourist traps. We aim to give our guests a one-of-a-kind experience while staying at the Dorsett Wanchai.” Anita Chan, General Manager

The hotel also provides complimentary shuttle bus service to 16 major attractions on the Hong Kong Island which include places like the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Central, and Admiralty where the major entertainment and financial areas are located. An alternative to the shuttle bus is to purchase an Octopus Card which permits you to travel on all trams, buses and subway trains or even take a very reasonably priced taxi.

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Drinks-wise you can enjoy anything and everything an old-school ‘cha chaan teng’ would serve, from milk teas to ‘black cow’ ice cream coke floats. Where to Dine Match Box Cafe Paying tribute to old Hong Kong, this local café-style eatery serves local comfort foods in a retro setting. Styled like a 1960s tea restaurant and decked out in retro red with plastic light fittings, theatre seats at the tables and bold coloured tiled walls, you can’t help but feel an air of nostalgia. The trendy staff in their iconic green trousers and white blouses or brown Lee Kung Man shirts serve to a sound track of Cantonese classics, rustling up dishes such as macaroni with fried eggs and ham, rice with BBQ pork and egg and toast. Drinks-wise you can enjoy anything and everything an oldschool ‘cha chaan teng’ would serve, from milk teas to ‘black cow’ ice cream coke floats. Kam Fung Restaurant Kam Fung Restaurant is a local institution renowned for its traditional milk tea and freshly baked Chinese goodies including egg tarts, tasty chicken pies, and Bo Lo Bao.

Tao Heung Restaurant For the ultimate in Hong Kong Dim Sum, head straight to Tao Heung, one of the top 10s of ‘must try’ restaurants at Hong Kong. In the mornings you can awaken your taste buds with huge varieties of dim sum and come the evening you can feast on their signature steamboats. Be sure to either book in advance or prepare to share a table with other diners – this is a very popular restaurant and its popularity just keeps growing.

Jade Garden Restaurant Making its debut back in 1971, this Maxim Group eatery was their first Chinese restaurant to open and to this day remains popular among locals (always a great sign!) and visitors alike. Praised for its incredible and extensive dim sum menu and impeccable service, Jade Garden offers dishes such as sizzling honey-glazed barbecued pork, stir-fried minced pigeon and deep-fried shrimp rolls with garlic.

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HONG KONG

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HONG KONG

Here you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience as you indulge in their cosmopolitan concoctions, Asian bites and DJ beats. Jumbo Floating Restaurant The now world-renowned Jumbo Floating Restaurant opened back in October 1976, taking four years and millions of dollars to design and build. It is ornamented in the style of an exquisite ancient Chinese imperial palace and over the past decades, Jumbo has been much appreciated by locals and tourists alike, becoming a landmark of Hong Kong and celebrity haunt.

Cementing the reputation Hong Kong holds as a ‘Gourmet’s Paradise’ the Jumbo is a major feature of this landscape. The restaurant is best known for fresh seafood specialities prepared by its renowned chefs and the menu includes over 100 delectable seafood dishes, as well as traditional Cantonese cuisine and Dim Sum, all cooked to the individual customer’s taste.

Nightlife

Ozone Take a trip up into the clouds and sip upon cocktails as inventive as the bar itself. This Hong Kong sky bar and lounge is the highest in the world and located atop the International Commerce Centre. Here you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience as you indulge in their cosmopolitan concoctions, Asian bites and DJ beats.

Eyebar Set in Hong Kong’s famous harbour and looking out to Hong Kong Island, Eyebar is a contemporary and impeccably designed bar that fits in perfectly amongst the buzz of city life. Like Hong Kong itself the bar seamlessly fuses the old with the new, with subtle touches of the city’s maritime past; the ‘eye’ of the bar referring to the kind that was painted on the prow of old Chinese junks to protect them from evil, while some old photos of Cantonese seadogs and the harbour in the 19th century adorn some wall space. Perhaps the real selling point of this popular nightspot is the terrace that runs the length of the bar and offers revellers unrivalled views of the city’s nightly laser shows and sparkling skyline. Once again, this is a hot spot for cocktail lovers, with signature cocktails including the ginbased ‘Grape Expectations’ and the lively ‘Calamansitini’ that sings with south-east Asian citrus fruit and gininfused red tea. Asian fusion runs through the bar snack menu with classics such as spring rolls, fried soft shell crab and chicken wings serving as the perfect accompaniment to your tipple.

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Retail Therapy

Days Out

IFC Shopping Mall Hailed as Hong Kong’s most visually appealing shopping destinations, the IFC Mall is a must-visit for visitors to the city. Forget the world and indulge in some retail therapy whilst you take in the soothing water views and wrap up your day with a gourmet meal enjoyed to the backdrop of the glamorous harbour. The mall houses over 200 international brands, available at a whole range of price levels, from mid and upper-priced clothing to luxury fashion.

Ocean Park Ocean Park is located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, covering more than 91.5 hectares of land. There are two attraction areas – the Waterfront and the Summit, both of which are connected by cable cars as well as the Ocean Express tunnel funicular system. Officially opened in January 1977, Ocean Park started as an oceanarium and has gone from strength to strength to become Hong Kong’s acclaimed educational animal and sea life theme park, playing host to more than 130 million guests.

The mall is part of a complex that includes the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel, where you can enjoy both Chinese and Western Michelin-starred fare. There are a variety of other eateries available too, and the roof garden with views across the harbour to Kowloon is a public space. Times Square People come from far and wide to Times Square, the retail jewel in the Causeway Bay crown. With over 230 stores to choose from, this is the area’s largest shopping mall. On offer is anything from fashion to accessories, electronics to toys, with two department stores, a supermarket and over 20 restaurants dishing out top-grade Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Western fare. You can easily recognise the mall by the elaborate displays and photogenic installations it sets up temporarily at its entrance, especially during festivals and other celebrations. Hundreds of thousands of people gather here to countdown to a New Year every New Year’s Eve.

Ladies Market If you are a keen haggler then get over to the Ladies’ Market on Tung Choi Street, which offers over 100 stalls of bargain clothing, accessories and souvenirs to bargain hungry shoppers over a one-kilometre stretch. Although the name derives from its reputation for offering huge amounts of clothing and accessories for women of all ages, don’t let this fool you. You will be sure to find watches, cosmetics, bags, home furnishings, CDs and trinkets all up for grabs. Jade Market The Chinese have long associated Jade with long life and good health, making it a prized material for good-luck charms. In Hong Kong, the jade business is most active at the Jade Market in Kowloon. A threetonne jade stone marks the strip of Canton Road known as Jade Street, where Jade of the finest quality is sold by more than one hundred stalls The jade comes in all sorts of forms, including jade accessories, including rings, bangles, pendants and earrings, as well as some more unusual finds as well.

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The Park houses a truly unique collection, including insects, fishes, birds and marine mammals. With the increasing success of the Park’s breeding programmes, births of rare shark species, bottlenose dolphins, rays, sea lions, sea horses, penguins, anacondas, poison dart frogs, red-handed tamarins, pygmy marmosets and different species of sea jellies have been recorded. Endangered birds are also being hatched and reared at Ocean Park. Begin your adventure at Aqua City, an immersive ocean-themed area, then be dazzled Adventures in Australia, Hong Kong’s firstever attraction themed on South Australia. Guests begin their quest by watching an exhilarating life movie that showcases the colourful wilderness and magnificent scenery of South Australia, and catching a glimpse of the great Australian Outback as they walk through a tunnel to a meadow where they will encounter iconic species from South Australia, including southern koalas, red-necked wallabies and laughing kookaburras! Follow this up with an icy journey to Polar Adventure, featuring North Pole Encounter, South Pole Spectacular and Arctic Fox Den, as well as a gift shop and the brand new Arctic Blast roller coaster. Finally, top off your adventure with Old Hong Kong, a gateway into the city’s golden age of the past.

Ngong Ping 360 As a top candidate of Hong Kong top tourist spots, Ngong Ping 360 is where you can enjoy 360-degree views on a ‘world’s top 10’ amazing cable car ride. The attraction also comprises of a culturally themed landscaped garden called Ngong Ping Village. Preserving the natural ecological environment and features of the Ngong Ping area, Ngong Ping 360 is sure to refresh your body and enlighten your mind, as soon as you step on the famous cable car. Ngong Ping Cable Car is a visually spectacular 5.7km cable car journey, travelling between Tung Chung Town Centre and Ngong Ping on Lantau Island. Visitors are greeted by stunning panoramic views of the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, South China Sea and beyond from a standard, crystal or private cabin.

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Must Do’s Sky 100 Observation Deck Situated on the 100th floor of ICC (the tallest building in Hong Kong) and reached by taking a ride on the fastest double-deck elevator in town (100th floor within 1 minute), the Sky 100 Observation Deck offers spectacular 360-degree views of the city’s skyline and the worldrenowned Victoria Harbour.

The Hong Kong Observation Wheel The 60-metre-high Hong Kong Observation Wheel promises visitors spectacular views of the Victoria Harbour as they ride in one of the wheel’s 42 luxurious gondolas. Star Ferries Harbour Tour Since as early as 1888, Star Ferry boats have been carrying captivated passengers to and from Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Although these days, the two sides of Victoria Harbour are now connected by a world-class infrastructure system of road and rail tunnels, tens of millions of people still climb aboard the humble Star Ferry vessels each year hoping for an up-close look at one of the world’s most photographed harbours. National Geographic rates the Star Ferry crossing as one of 50 ‘places of a lifetime’.

A Symphony of Lights ‘A Symphony of Lights’ is a nightly light and sound show in Hong Kong and the world’s largest permanent light and sound show, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.

The multimedia show involves more than 40 buildings on both sides of the famous harbour and is choreographed to music and narration that celebrates the energy, spirit and diversity of Hong Kong. There are five main themes: Awakening, Energy, Heritage, Partnership, and the finale, Celebration. The show is free and spectators can listen to the show’s music and narration live nightly at the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront outside the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Victoria Gibbins

*Terms and conditions and travel restrictions apply and can be viewed at www.cathaypacific.co.uk.

FACT BOX Cathay Pacific now offers a choice of three routes between the UK to Hong Kong, and onwards to over 190 destinations globally. These include five flights daily from London Heathrow, and four flights per week from both Manchester Airport and Gatwick Airport. The new Gatwick route exclusively features the new A350. For further information, visit www.cathaypacific.co.uk or call 0208 834 8888. Please find for your reference our lead-in fares for travel to LGW-HKG return in October in all 3 cabins and inclusive of taxes. Economy Class - £582.92 Premium Economy Class - £1074.92 Business Class - £2735.92 Please be advised all fares are subject to availability and terms and conditions.

Sara Abbott A whole life time ago Sara Abbott had a ‘proper job’, mortgage, company car, a host of business suits and a thoroughly miserable existence to go with it…

y children spent more time with their minder than me and I was exhausted. Something had to snap and it was that job! I always thought I’d be an artist and had studied at Camberwell School of Art in the 1980s so after that blighted detour into the corporate world I jacked it all in, moved to Brighton just after the millennium, and began to paint.

Initially creating classic figurative works using contemporary models, I didn’t do too badly in those early days. What is now The Bee’s Mouth on Western Road use to be a gallery, Synergy. I exhibited work there regularly – one piece was ‘Diana the Huntress’, a tattooed lady with shaved hair and a German Shepard as her dog. This was seen by a friend who requested I create a painting of his dog Badger, someone else saw that in my studio and you can guess the rest. The animal portrait side of my work was launched. Brighton was vital to me during the early days – that creative utopia by the coast called and set me free. I moved from a quiet country village up country into a cultural medley and I lapped it up. I shared a studio on Farm Road to start with then moved to different spaces all over town, learning and growing creatively each year. They don’t call it an artistic practice for nothing – you really do need to practice and there’s nothing better at keeping you motivated than being surrounded by others making amazing work. That shear hard work and dedication sprinkled with a lot of passion and want on my part has seen my business grow. I’ve been creating portraits for over 15

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years now and each one I’ve loved. Making paintings to commission means you really need to listen to the wants of your client. It may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for them and I want to make the whole thing wonderful. It’s not only portraits I do but a whole variety of works from nudes to wall murals. You may remember the Alice in Wonderland piece on Middle Street a few years back; that was me. Once or twice a year I make time to create a collection of work to exhibit. The portraits have become a very fine and fixed style so these ‘albums’ of new works allow me to really throw the paint around, reaching for all sorts of mixed media to create purely decorative paintings. These are mostly still animal inspired but recently still life has been creeping into my work.

A successful business is more than just covering your costs or making a profit. Satisfaction is a big deal for me, and having made the break to work for myself, doing something that brings me and others joy and giving something back far outweighs financial gain. However, the recognition of others is very rewarding. Several years ago I found myself once again in a smart suit and brushed hair but painting behind a roped off area in Harrods Pet department – I figured that being invited to be in house animal portrait artists in what is regarded as the ‘best’ shop in town was pretty cool and I felt I must be doing a lot of things right. Sadly that part of the renowned store closed in January 2014 but for two years I had the top spot for the animal portrait side of my creative business.

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I’ve created works for all sorts of clients in all sorts of places – a few internationally recognised. But the nature of my work and the intimacy required makes every commission a beautiful experience for me and I aim to treat each client as if they are A-listers!

My practise is fairly unique in that I visit my clients for a gentle meeting and photoshoot. I’m spending quite a lot of time in the Pennines at the moment and have a studio there but at least one week of each month I’m on the South Coast, so as I travel up and down the country it lends itself to visiting clients all over the UK. The majority of animal portrait artists require clients to send a photo to paint. For me and the formal, oil on canvas portraits I do, an essential ingredient in my work is that meeting, that sitting on the floor with the dog, lying on the lawn with cheese on my head to get the perfect ‘eyes to camera’ shot. I also get a feel for the relationship between the dog and their person; is it a fun friendship, a serious one or a working one? It is striving after this essence and mixing it with my paints that makes my work a little different. Another unique aspect to my work is that with each commissioned, formal animal portrait I donate £100 of my fee to animals in rescue. Each six months I work with a different organisation. I’ve worked with the big names: RSPCA, PDSA, Dogs Trust and the little ones too, The Mayhew, Nowzad and am currently raising funds for Brighton-based rescue Helping Paws who work internationally. The charities promote me to their supporters, the press love the story,

I get work and can give something back to the dogs down on their luck. I’ve a £2k target for each six-month campaign.

In addition to working with Helping Paws till the end of the year I’m very excited to say I’ve buddied up with Keith Michael Accounts, another Brighton business. Together we are linking with onlinefundraising for Sussex Beacon via a Just Giving page, essentially a raffle with the winner receiving a commission of their choice, be it a landscape, a portrait of themselves or a loved one or their dog. Full details can be found on my Facebook page and in my website blog during October. Although most of my work comes through word of mouth and from all over the country I wouldn’t want to be without my social media platforms. What I do is such a personal thing that most of my clients become friends, unveiling a portrait will often result in tears and emotions flow. I regularly post updates and pictures from my studios and it’s just lovely to keep in contact with existing clients and by default meet new ones via the internet, however, it is important to mix the virtual with the real and as above I spend a lot of time actually meeting my clients.

Roach Photography

They say that a picture is worth a 1000 words and every picture tells a story – it’s my privilege and pleasure to capture my clients stories and make them something to last a lifetime, none is more important than another, each canvas that is on my easel is the most important piece of work I’ve ever done.

www.sara-abbott.com www.facebook.com/saraabbottstudio www.facebook.com/helpingpawsuk

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ITrex are no dinosaur If there’s a business that perfectly empathises the spirit and morals of Brighton and Hove, it’s ITrex. In a nutshell, the innovative company is a start-up… that helps start-ups. From the bottom up, they assist with websites, brand awareness, and all the associated minutiae. Utilising the science backgrounds of the three founders – Ben Rich, Philip Hodgson, and Stuart McCamley – ITrex’s core rationale is to omit unnecessary red tape and bureaucracy associated with certain systems so the subject can concentrate on their respective businesses.

Not a political party For example, one of the company’s current flagship projects is Poll Party, a work-in-progress that is a revolutionary approach to political voting.

“To say that there is an increasing level of dissatisfaction with the political class would be a significant understatement,” explains Stuart, who started ITrex 15 years ago. “This phenomenon is not new, but the EU referendum emphasised the economic and ideological divisions within the UK. As a company, and personally, we believe representative democracy is fundamentally flawed since it outsources the responsibility for the strategic and operational policy of a country to a select group of individuals. This outsourcing has a significant effect on the demeanour of individuals in regards to their attitude to leadership and although this saves time it means that large swathes of the population could be ignored. We know there is a better way!” Poll Party’s goals are as follows:

• The public are able to vote on

issues which arise in the Houses of Parliament, alongside MPs • Political decisions are made clear to the public • There is better efficiency in our political systems

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Content and media related to the goingson in Parliament is added to Hansard and Poll Party essentially translates this information into layman’s terms, facilitating the man on the street’s ability to understand – and affect – issues of national importance.

Users will be notified on House of Commons’ debates, and vote accordingly. The only barrier to entry is not owning a mobile phone. Poll Party is being designed and built by user experience professionals and tech specialists, using simple English, translated from legalese. Real-time data is used and the app incorporates state-of-the-art real-time technology. App user statistics hone and direct campaigns to minimise mass user adoption bias and Poll Party will always remain unaligned – in any way, shape or form – to a political party.

magazine, although Stuart insisted we add a few extra pages to fit it all in!

A particularly interesting site in development at the moment is Venture Snap. The premise is simple: it is a place wealthy benefactors visit if they have money to put in to a new venture. And, it is a platform for small enterprises to secure the necessary investment they need to start/ expand their business. It essentially works as a ‘gentleman’s agreement whereby the entity requiring the finance pays a fee, but only when they have secured a contribution. But, even then, there is no pressure to pay. Where Poll Party removes red tape for political decisions, Venture Snap removes red tape for investment, and investors. The team

The app can be fully integrated across social media and detailed, shareable facts will be included to drive further user engagement.

This is a seriously qualified bunch. Stuart McCamley founded ITrex during his pre-college years and his background is theoretical physics. He’s passionate about start-ups, and solving problems, and he’d be a good person to have on your side at a team-building day.

The ITrex current workload is impressive, but we only have so many pages in the

The third full-time component of the team is Ben Rich. His passion

“You may get a million likes on Facebook but it won’t change anything. But, a single vote on Poll Party could make a difference,” said Philip Hodgson, perfectly summing up the capability of his company’s project.

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A useful member if you were on Robot Wars is Philip Hodgson, who has years’ experience in robotics and sales – an unusual mix that is supported by a desire to network and an interest in 3D modelling.

lies in computer science, artificial intelligence and developing social projects. His aim is to make Brighton the UK hub for tech industries. New home

ITrex have just moved in Eagle Labs at Preston Circus. The former Barclays Bank is now a new business hub where companies of all shapes and sizes can work together in their workspaces.

Whether you’re just testing a new idea and using the 3D printers and laser cutters, discussing a new business initiative with one of the many mentors, or your company is growing rapidly and you need an ‘incubator’, Eagle Labs is designed with small businesses in mind. And to celebrate…

To mark ITrex’s new abode, the company has formulated a special package to help start-ups and small businesses launch in Brighton and Hove, which is available for the next 90 days. Their elite team of theoretical scientists is on hand to build your website, design your brand, give technical direction and strategy, set up email addresses, conduct a ‘ITrex Business Review, access the ‘ITrex Startup Checklist’, and design your start-up tailored reading list. Dan Tester

Drop them a line for more information: hello@itrex.co.uk www.itrex.co.uk

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Secret Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar Pop-up private bar Brighton

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ANTIQUES . COLLECTABLES . HOME FURNISHINGS Emporium Treasure and Trash

Monday - Friday 10am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday 12pm - 4pm

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The Sussex Sign Company The Sussex Sign Company was established in January 1995, and currently operate from a 4,000 sq. ft. manufacturing plant on Foredown Drive in Portslade. In addition to producing virtually any kind of sign you could possibly imagine, the company also deliver nationwide consultancy and support services. Managing Director, Norman Mayhew, popped into the Absolute Brighton offices for a chat.

What kind of services do you provide? “Our team of experts love a challenge and there’s nothing more pleasing than producing a solution that answers the client’s brief. We can design, produce, install and maintain all under one roof, which our clients enjoy as it saves on headaches. Although we do have a first aid box if things get a bit hectic…” How did you start up? “I have always enjoyed the freedom and satisfaction of working for myself and started TSSC 21 years ago with my father and mother-in-law, Peter and Pam Lake, and from the outset I had a vision to ‘make signs’. It’s not been an easy ride, and there have been several hair-raising moments, hence the grey hair now… but I wouldn’t change a thing.”

to their needs and making sure projects are completed on time, and on budget. We are so confident about our signs that we offer a 12-month guarantee on all work carried out. I know myself, how great is it to be well looked after, and that’s what TSSC wants to deliver. I suppose currently the most popular service is for vehicle livery, which requires a sharp eye for detail and a thorough understanding of three dimensional objects. Working with a wide range of materials, including commercial and digitally printed vinyl, our designers produce concepts where the aesthetic meets functionality, creating high impact solutions.”

How much can that cost up to? “Our vehicle livery prices start from £345.00+VAT and, dependent on What’s the most popular service you specification of vehicle, confirmation of provide? “That’s a tough question. We now have such artwork and material, costs can rise up to a diverse portfolio of work that incorporates approximately £3,500+VAT.” anything from wheelie bin stickers to Who are some of your biggest clients? massive national roll-outs it is hard to “In what way do you mean ‘big’? select just one. The portfolio covers areas such as retail, leisure, entertainment, estate If you mean work that we have agents, vehicle livery, the public sector and educational authorities to name but a few… manufactured and installed, our team has worked on major UK roll-outs for The Gym Group, Oxygen Freejumping and RED I like to think that one area we do excel in Driving School. is customer service. Without our clients, I wouldn’t have a business and TSSC prides If you are talking about large organisations, itself on great customer care. We work then we have produced work on behalf of really hard to make sure all our clients are treated with the utmost respect, by listening the NHS, the Sussex Police, the University

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of Brighton and the University of Sussex, but seriously, the list is endless… There are other clients based in London but we have signed a confidentiality agreement so mum’s the word!”

What’s been the most challenging job for a client you have ever had? “Locally, we are working on a really exciting project for Sky High Trampoline Park, based in Newhaven. They are a great bunch of people, full of enthusiasm. The initial consultation led to an exciting brief that transformed the shell of a warehouse into a dynamic leisure park, ranging from large banners to window and wall manifestations. Working against tight deadlines and a demanding vision, we managed to produce a quality product, on time and on budget.” Can you explain what the process is for a job? “Ouch!... have you got time?! We have a well-oiled machine that takes a project from concept through to production and installation, consulting with the client at every stage.”

Do you come up with the design and schemes yourself, or does the client give the input? “Quite simply, both! We can help and advise on all levels of a project, with a designated design department that is the link between the concept, the fabrication and installation. Our design team has the skills and expertise

of any quality design agency, which is why clients keep coming back to us. On a daily basis we produce fully annotated, bespoke schematics based upon accurate site surveys along with photographic visuals, to help with planning applications that guarantee that the manufacture, fabrication, and installation are a seamless fit.” How do you make yourselves stand out amongst your competitors? “What competitors?

And, in June 2016 the team were awarded Brighton and Hove Independent Business Awards 2016 – Manufacturing and Construction Business of the Year 2016 – ‘an award to a company that has best demonstrated exceptional financial returns, innovation, strong growth and market leadership in the field of manufacturing and/or construction’.”

Brighton is a very diverse place so do you think being quite local has benefited you? “Absolutely, forgive the pun… We love Joking aside, we don’t actually look at the Brighton and Hove. It is a creative hub competition. What drives us as individuals that has allowed us to generate exciting is brought together collectively to produce solutions to challenging briefs. We really an excellence and commitment that want to embrace new ways of seeing produces the best product we can, and and we are extremely lucky to have such delivering it in the best way possible. Our fantastically receptive clients who will allow enthusiasm and energy carries us through us to develop fresh ideas and utilise new the daily running of the company. We simply technologies.” love what we do and have fun doing it! Have you ever had a really strange or Winning awards is always great and we funny request to complete for a client? have been fortunate to be proud winners of “Funnily enough we have never had any the Sussex Small Business of the Year Award far out suggestions although our design followed by not only being voted Newhaven manager has a bucket list, wanting to wrap Business of the Year, but also Federation a mobility shooter, drum kit and a coffin… so of Small Business – Southern Region Small any offers welcomed…” Business Champions, and have been finalist in the Sussex business awards ‘Learning Pays’ Award. www.sussexsigns.com

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2AA Rosettes

Come and sample our hot dishes, sushi and cocktails

We look forward to serving you

38 East Street, Horsham, West Sussex. www.wabi.co.uk T: 01403 788140 E: info@wabi.co.uk

Recharge Cargo You’ve probably seen their amazing bikes around town. Recharge Cargo is Brighton’s carbon neutral courier service, a sustainable delivery operation carrying anything from letters to large loads up to 300kg. We talk to founder Sam Ream to find out more.

Explain the start up of your company? How did it begin? I launched Recharge Cargo in November 2013 with the aim of leading the way in sustainable urban logistics and demonstrating that a large proportion of courier and deliver y work in cities can be done using cargo bikes. I had been looking around for a new career path and a visit to Portland, Oregon in the US really opened my eyes to the business opportunities of cargo bikes. I had a moment when I just thought: “Imagine if we could replace all those dirty courier and delivery vans with these clean and quiet cargo bikes, Brighton would be a much nicer place.” How has your company grown to be where it is now? What has contributed to your businesses success? Recharge launched with just one bike and a small delivery round in central Brighton for DHL. We now have four or five bikes out on delivery each day and a staff of ten part-time riders. We expect to keep growing in the future.

We offer a really simple and unique solution to one of the big problems that cities face at the moment – delivery volumes are exploding due to the shift to online retail, but the space on our roads to accommodate all those deliveries is fixed. We can’t keep adding more vans to the roads due to congestion and pollution issues. Our business model directly addresses this problem – we replace van delivery rounds with clean, quiet cargo bikes that also offer faster delivery times for our clients at highly competitive rates. We also consolidate some of our deliveries so that a single cargo bike can replace several vans that would otherwise be choking up the city centre. At what point did you recognise the success of your business? Stefan from Amsterdammers really helped me in the early days by providing a base to operate out of his bike shop – we joined

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forces and he is now co-director. That partnership is really strong foundation for the business. Stefan oversees all the technical side, maintenance and some of the admin, and I focus on marketing, PR, training and recruitment. We became profitable within a year and growing concerns about air pollution and congestion mean we’ve had a really great response from the people that know us and get what we’re doing. Being a recognised company, please name a few of your clients or brands that you do business with? Our customers include: DHL Express, Brighton & Hove City Council, W. Straker stationers, Sticky Fingers bakery, Pharmacie Coffee Roasters, Elwood Wines, Marwood Café, Redroaster, and, of course, Absolute, who switched to us for their magazine distribution!

And how has social media impacted on you? This is something that we’re still getting to grips with and it’s probably one of our blind spots to some extent. We need to join in with more of these conversations as I think there are still loads of people who don’t know about us. How do you stay relevant and current and continuously meet your consumer needs? We recently rebranded (Thanks Natasha from Studio Coverdale!) and are working hard to improve across a range of areas. We use digital delivery software to give customers tracking and real-time visibility of our service. We are also introducing uniforms, ID badges and formal Bikeability cycle training for all our staff to ensure we offer a great level of service across the board. Which project/s are you really excited about?

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Where to start? We have some pretty cool new cargo bikes coming soon. We’re also collaborating with other companies on something which will enable us to provide a new level of service to e-commerce companies and offer Brighton and Hove residents and businesses a much more responsive courier service with fewer missed deliveries and on-demand rerouting and time slots.

Why are you different to other businesses within your industry? Explain to myself what your clients will receive? We are zero-emission, which is unique in Brighton & Hove, but that’s only part of our USP. We’re also keen to contribute to a better public realm – making the city a nicer place to live and work in and visit. Unlike some other courier companies, we employ all our staff in-house and pay the Living Wage Foundation rate – this means a lot to our customers who are often concerned about how some couriers treat their staff.

How has the city of Brighton helped your business? Do you feel Brighton’s high creativity levels have contributed to your success? Brighton is such a great city to launch in. It’s bursting with progressive people who understand what we’re all about and are keen to support and collaborate with us. The local cycling culture is really starting to flourish and it’s great to be a part of that.

Our membership of the Green Growth Platform (run by the University of Brighton) has provided a lot of support, mentoring and access to development grants and training. That support has really given us confidence in ourselves that we’re doing something right.

I had a moment when I just thought: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Imagine if we could replace all those dirty courier and delivery vans with these clean and quiet cargo bikes, Brighton would be a much nicer place.â&#x20AC;?

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