ABSOLUTE Sussex Magazine Summer Edition 2018 by Absolute Magazine Group

6:10 PM Praslin “There are times you share − and there are times you don’t share with anyone, except each other.”

www.raffles.com/seychelles

Index 8 14 24 30 34 40 42 46 48 52 56 58 62 68 72 76 82 86 92 100 106 108 112 124 131 132 144

CITY NEWS FASHION GOODWOOD NATASHA DAHLBERG DEL TEMPELS BRIGHTON RACES PRIDE FLOAT SPA BRICT FIZZ & FOOD BARS & BEATS COFFE & CAKE THE IVY THE STONEHAM i360 WEST BEACH CAFE NORFOLK ARMS BOK SHOP LONDON LIFE IBIZA EGO TO ECO SOUND OF SILENCE MUSTANG ADVENTURES NAGAI H HOTEL SEYCHELLES SUMMER DAYS OUT HOMES SUPPLEMENT PHOTOGRAPHY FEATURE - DAVID FREEMAN ADAM VIRGO

Contributing Editors - Charlie McBrien | Matt Parr | Shelley Louise Welti Victoria Marie Emerson | Lindsay Katherine Hills Pete Hayward | Kasia (The Styling Agency) Tony Shattell (food reviewer) Fashion, Beauty & Interior Styling Editor - Kasia (The Styling Agency) Features Editor - Victoria Marie Emerson - info@absolutemagazine.co.uk Designer - Pete Hayward - petehayward.design Owners - Publishers Simon Darcy Abbott - simon@absolutemagazine.co.uk David Camici - dcamici@absolutemagazine.co.uk Cover Photography Daren Black Photography Model Layla Harris First Model Management, London Clothes Walk in Wardbrobe - Hove. Raffles Boutique, Kankan, Jouel - Seychelles Location H resort, Seychelles

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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The Editor

elcome to the summer and our summer issue for 2018... and what a scorcher it’s set to be!

Starting with the beautiful fashion shoot we had the pleasure of taking in the Seychelles in December, it was captured at the stunning H Resort on Beau Vallon Beach by the super talented Darren Black. We are honoured to have interviewed two highly talented jewellery designers Natasha Dalhberg and Del Tempels Ibiza and have a report from Goodwood’s Festival of Speed. We look ahead at the forthcoming Brighton Pride and horse racing season, plus we feature the amazing local performing arts school BRICTT and their talented students.

For our foodies, this issue we take a look at the gorgeous Ivy In The Lanes after its huge opening, sampling their menus and drinks and we look at the new West Beach Cafe at the i360 - the perfect place to relax and chill on a visit to the city over the summer. We take a trip over to beautiful Arundel, in the shade of the castle, and pay a visit to the historic Norfolk Arms Hotel and their brand new food and drink offering, plus their recently opened concept tap house and gardens. It’s a must visit if you’re over that neck of the woods.

As ever, we bring you our regular London Life feature where we look at all the best family days out for those enjoying a UK staycation this year in Sussex and London, plus for those looking overseas we jet off to the Seychelles and the stunning H Resort as well as Ibiza for the ultimate in luxury and unique breaks. We highlight some of the most amazing places to stay, dine or visit while on the white isle. We hope you enjoy the issue and have a great summer. Absolute

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News

Bolney Cocktail Party Crushed or Cubed? Shaken or stirred? Gin, vodka, rum or bubbles? What is your favourite cocktail? At Bolney, they will be hosting their first ever cocktail night on Friday 3rd August ’18. The team will be demonstrating how to make four fantastic cocktails at the wine bar and, at the end of the demo, you can choose which one you would like to be served at your table. For those feeling indecisive Bolney are offering a flight of all four cocktails (an additional £20, payable on the evening.) The ticket price includes one cocktail of your choice and the kitchen will be open on the night serving their delicious tapas. For information visit www.bolneywineestate.com

Music Night @ Mal Head to Malmaison on Friday 3rd of August and you we will be joined by Will Mavin who will be cracking out some great relaxed tunes on their sunny terrace. Take advantage of Thank Mal Its Friday discounted drinks from 5pm - 8pm and enjoy £5 long drinks, £6 classic cocktails and glasses of Maison Champagne. With great tunes and stellar deals on bubbles by the bottle, it's the perfect tonic for a long week at work. No need to book, just head over, relax and fall in love with the marina vibes.

Bottomless Brunch & The Pride Terrace Party Bottomless Brunch launches at Stock Burger Co with a delicious range of meaty to vegan burgers to line the stomach whilst you sip responsibly on unlimited mimosas or Bloody Mary's! All for only £25pp between 12-2pm every Saturday. Come rain or come shine come, head straight to the colourful Art+Believe seafront terrace or take a seat inside with clear views of the West Pier. The terrace is the perfect place to catch Brighton Pride Parade and watch it all unfold. Expect music and dancing along with the passing parade in the morning to an evening of drinks and music filled with pride. Drinks, cocktails, and burgers sold all day; just with added flair and louder music!

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Spider-Man at Drusillas Weaving a web of excitement the Amazing Spider-Man spins into action at Drusillas Park on 1st August for the first time this year. The crime-fighting crusader will be launching his web-slinging fun and Super Hero antics during meet and greet appearances throughout the day. For more information visit the website www.drusillas.co.uk.

Brighton Thai Festival

iDrop Abseil

The two day event returns on 18th and 19th August, inviting you to experience the taste of Thailand this summer at Preston Park, Brighton, all brought to you by Magic of Thailand. Treat yourself to a weekend wonder and bring along your families and friends to feel a touch of Thai culture, where you can challenge your taste buds and feast your eyes on world class food and performances. Unwind with a traditional Thai massage and don't miss the unique eating competition and Muay Thai boxing.

Thrill-seekers: are you up to the challenge? iDrop Abseil is the most exhilarating new experience on the south coast! Abseil from the British Airways i360 pod, 450ft above Brighton beach and take in the sweeping coastal views as you glide down through the open air.

The festival starts with a traditional food offering to Buddhist monks and entertainment throughout the day including traditional music and dancing, Muay Thai boxing, Ladyboy show, Thai beer garden, Thai food and produce stalls, Thai massage and children's play area.

“The sheer exposure of British Airways i360 is what makes this abseil special because unlike other venues, you are descending in open space rather than against a wall. And the position on the seafront makes it unique. I would challenge anyone not to feel a few nerves when faced with a 450ft drop, so even for experienced people, this will present a fearsome challenge.” Iain Tindall, director of Belay Ropes Access

Book the iDrop Abseil mornings on Saturdays throughout the summer and autumn. Looking for a charity challenge, hen or stag activity, or an adrenaline-fueled start to an adventurous weekend? An iDrop Abseil from British Airways i360 is ideal. “Everything in your body is telling you stay in the pod; you’re 450ft in the air! It’s an adrenaline rush, I enjoyed it, and it’s something you can say you’ve done for the rest of your life” Chris Eubank Jr, professional boxer

Belgian Beer and Fries - Brighton & Hove Beer Week

Snailspace Brighton & Hove

Fancy a good discussion on Belgian beer in the UK? A decent Belgian beer offering used to be the sign of a good pub or bar. Considering Belgian brewing is a tale of wild invention you'd think it would be the perfect partner to craft, instead the beers are losing shelf and fridge space. On 29th August, join Beer & Brew and BeFries to discuss why this might be. The debate takes place at BeFries and includes fries with sauce sampling and, of course, a selection of fine Belgian favourites from the brilliant BeFries menu.

As the leaves turn golden in Autumn 2018, Martlets and Wild in Art will be coming out of their shells as The Snailway arrives in Brighton & Hove. Snail sculptures will be popping up throughout the city, decorated by local artists and community groups with the support of philanthropic local businesses. #BeMoreSnail and take the slow road around our city. Wander wherever the urge takes you. Wonder at the unique sculptures – enjoy and share experiences with friends old and new.

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Jurassic Park in Concert Jurassic Park, one of the most thrilling science fiction adventures ever made, featuring one of John Williams’ most iconic and beloved musical scores will be screened in full in stunning high-definition accompanied by an orchestra at the Brighton Dome on 8th September. 25 years ago Jurassic Park transformed the movie-going experience for an entire generation and became the highest-grossing film of all time in 1993, winning three Academy Awards®. Masterfully directed by Steven Spielberg and based on the best-selling novel by Michael Crichton, Jurassic Park transports us to a secluded island where scientists have succeeded in reviving the age of dinosaurs in a brand new, immersive theme park, the likes of which has never been seen before. Renowned palaeontologists Alan Grant (Sam Neill) and Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) are part of an exclusive group invited to the island for a sneak preview of the park’s wonders. When things go terribly wrong, they must fight for their lives against unimaginable dangers in a desperate attempt to escape from a world gone mad… a world in which dinosaurs once again rule the earth. Now audiences can experience this groundbreaking film as never before: projected in HD with a full symphony orchestra performing Williams’ magnificent score live to picture. Welcome… to Jurassic Park! Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.co.uk

News

Underbelly Festival in South Bank Enjoy a fun-packed festival of live entertainment and alfresco eating and drinking at Underbelly Festival in South Bank. In 2017, the Udderbelly Festival and London Wonderground were joined together in a huge season of top live acts, forming the Underbelly Festival. Stretching throughout the summer, the festival returns for the 10th year with stages full of affordable circus, theatre, cabaret, comedy, music and children’s shows on the south bank of the Thames. You can also drop by the free-to-enter festival site to tuck into street food from the riverside vendors and grab a drink at one of London’s biggest outdoor bars, including the Rekorderlig Botanicals bar and Pimm’s Hut. BBC Proms in the Park

Experience Britain's largest open-air classical music event with BBC Proms in the Park in London’s Hyde Park. One of the highlights of the BBC Proms calendar, this spectacular annual outdoor concert is full of patriotism and British eccentricity. Taking place on the closing night of the two-month classical music festival, this year’s main evening performance culminates with the traditional Last Night finale performed live on stage by the BBC Concert Orchestra.

Brighton Digital Festival: The Messy Edge Summer of Sound on The Roof The Gardening Society on John Lewis's Oxford Street store's rooftop is turning into a live music venue. Rock up for garden gigs, immersive studio spaces, DJ sets and fried chicken from 'Butchies', all a world away from the hustle and bustle below. Running every day in August, from 12 midday onwards.

Last year, Brighton Digital Festival took a pioneering journey to the 'messy edge' – the more human, less clinical and more interesting version of the 'cutting edge' - with a smart band of conference goers. This year on 28th September they’re going back. The Messy Edge is Brighton Digital Festival's in-house conference; its heart and its voice. It's where they unpack some of the social, cultural and political implications of technology, it's where dominant perspectives are challenged. This is a conference for all, so join in for a day of thought-provoking talks by artists, activists and thinkers about the stuff - good, bad and ugly - that underpins our daily lives and is shaping the world we live in. The Messy Edge is supported by Sussex Humanities Lab and Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts. There is an allocation of Pay What You Decide (PWYD) tickets available to guests on a first-come, first-served basis. See the show without paying anything in advance, and then pay what you think is appropriate at the end of the show. Maximum of four PWYD tickets per person. Phone the box office on 01273 678822 or email info@attenboroughcentre. com for further information.

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Notting Hill Carnival Join London’s biggest street party as the Notting Hill Carnival fills the streets of west London with Caribbean colours, music and flavours. Watch elaborate floats and colourful costumed performers wind their way through the streets in the carnival parade, dance to the sound of steel bands and calypso music, and visit the tempting food stalls along the route. Notting Hill Carnival happens every year on the last weekend of August, including the summer bank holiday (public holiday) Monday.

Boundary Brighton Taking the best of Brighton’s creative energy, lust for life and generosity of spirit, Boundary Brighton is a festival with three stages of music, a vintage fair, delicious local food and other unexpected treats, all nestled between the crest of the Downs and the City with the sea below. Returning for its third instalment in 2018, Boundary promises to push your festival going experience right to the limit and transcend your previous conceptions of what an immersive party experience can be! On Saturday 29th September, one of the most skilful DJs to ever step behind a set of decks will headline at Boundary Festival in an EZ Brighton 2018 exclusive. Saluted by the industry for being one of the most creative live mixers ever, with both instinct and technical prowess, DJ EZ has graced airwaves and eardrums around the world for almost 30 years. At the final festival of the summer, he’ll be bringing his signature blend of fast cuts, mashups and the fastest fingers on the planet to headline Brighton’s homegrown event in Stanmer Park. Matt Priest, Director of Boundary: "DJ EZ has been a target of ours for a few years and we are delighted to have him headline Boundary; with plenty more exciting announcements to come in the next few weeks." Now in its third year, Boundary Brighton promises to be the definitive electronic music festival on the South Coast, and is strictly an 18+ event.

For ore information and to buy tickets, visit the website www.boundarybrighton

Walking with Dinosaurs – The Arena Spectacular at The O2 Meet a Tyrannosaurus rex, a Stegosaurus and more as Walking with Dinosaurs – The Arena Spectacular brings the extinct animals back to life at The O2. Learn more about the dinosaurs, watch them walk and hear them roar in this popular family show that has been seen by more than nine million people around the world. The show features 18 life-sized creatures, that use cutting-edge technology, to create a realistic dinosaur experience in London. You can also catch Walking with Dinosaurs – The Arena Spectacular at the SSE Arena, Wembley from 27 to 30 December.

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In 2018, the carnival takes place on 25, 26 and 27 August. Take a look at the programme below to see what time the festival starts and what's on each day. Panorama – Saturday 25 August The festival kicks off on Saturday evening with a steel band music competition, Caribbean-themed outdoor entertainment and street food during Panorama. Entry is free and the event takes place between 6pm and 10pm at Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance Park (Bosworth Road W10). Get up early on the Sunday morning to experience the traditional Caribbean carnival opening J’Ouvert. Join the parade or watch on as revellers march through the streets covered in mud and colourful paint between 6am and 9am. The procession starts and ends at Canal Way (Ladbroke Grove W10). Children's Day (Sunday Parade) takes over during the day and evening. See young performers dancing and swirling through the streets to show off their elaborate costumes in the Children’s Day Parade; hear live music at dedicated stages in Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance park and Powis Square, and make sure to enjoy the 38 static sound systems, delicious food stalls and family activities. On Monday 27 August, see colourful dancers, performers, steel bands and mobile sound systems fill the streets of Notting Hill for the Grand Finale (Monday Parade). Plus, tuck into delicious treats from the many food stalls in the area, and enjoy even more entertainment at the 38 static sound systems along the route and live stages in Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance park and Powis Square.

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Summer S C E N E

PHOTOGRAPHY Daren Black Photography MODEL Layla Harris First Model Management, London CLOTHES: Walk in Wardbrobe - Hove. Raffles Boutique, Kankan, Jouel - Seychelles LOCATION: H resort, Seychelles

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Goodwood “When you love what you do, you convey that feeling, that attitude, that resolve, that love too all around you” Ayrton Senna

he sprawling grounds of Goodwood country estate in West Sussex play host to an annual display of motor sport royalty. The Festival of Speed is an extraordinary automotive event that has been celebrating the automotive industry since 1993. Steeped in a rich history and created with a true love for cars this is a fast track extravaganza that never fails to pull in the crowds. Frederick Charles Gordon-Lennox the 9th Duke of Richmond set hearts racing back in 1936 when he decided to race his buddy and race car driver Freddie March up the drive way of GoodWood Estate on a glorious sunny day. This was the birth of the relationship between fast cars and idyllic english country side. However it took another 12 years for the Duke to set up a racetrack around the grounds of the estate. The first official race was hosted in 1948 shortly after world war two and included a 2.4 mile track. As popularity and word spread this scenic and tranquil racetrack saw some of the the world’s best drivers initiate themselves into this fast paced and titillating world of motorsport, including the sensational Sir Stirling Moss who has always held Goodwood and The Festival of Speed close to his heart.

This exciting time was short lived when financial strain resulted in the Duke of Richmond having to end the regular race meetings and in 1966 the track closed. It took nearly another thirty years before the roar of engines were heard again. In 1992 the eleventh Duke of Richmond formerly Lord March took over the running of the estate from his father. A year later that love and passion for motor sport sparked an Idea for the now Festival of Speed or Disney Land for adults! The first event cost £100,000 and a mere 3000 people were expected, but in total amazement 25,000 people turned up and so the historical journey began in this majestic location. Now tens of thousands of people flock to the estate to participate in the three day automotive event with the famous hill climb differentiating this motor event from any other around the world. It is quite overwhelming to think about about the amount of work that goes into the organisation of this spectacular event. In fact planning starts eighteen months in advance! Each year new and spectacular displays are put on for all to enjoy and an impressive line up of international exhibitors seem to grow as

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more and more companies want to be apart of this legendary event. This is also an unmissable for drivers and manufacturers past, present and future and you will be sure to find legends from Sir Stirling Moss to Lewis Hamilton roaming the grounds. Formula E, NASCAR, British touring cars, and not forgetting experimental prototypes, supercars and Formula one beauties are a few examples of the cars that will bombard your senses and ultimately compete for the best time around the 1.16 mile hill-climb track. This event appeals to all and all have the opportunity to be children and play, touch and smell the divine mechanical masterpieces. It is total involvement, thrilling sounds and on my visit I was of course impressed with the stunning Veuve Cliquot summer garden complete with white picket fence over looking the track. My first experience at The Festival of Speed was in 2004 and I recall gawking at all of these incredible machines, but it was the incredible buzz in the air that hooked me. This was also the year of the utterly amazing display from a Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet.

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Each year the Red Arrows perform a breath taking show, but this particular year this beast of a plane flew not far above tree level and at a mere 100MPH without stalling! To say it was spectacular is a complete understatement and this experience has stayed with me all these years later. Every autumn I start booking ahead for The Festival of Speed and Glorious Goodwood – two events that I cannot miss. However I was frenzied with excitement when I was received my press invitation for 2018. Now over the past decade I have experienced the festival in a manner of ways from cold and windy, to colour coordinated wellies, yet this year in our 2018 heat wave I was so happy to being experiencing The Festival of Speeds fantastic hospitality and all from the Clark Pavillion right on the track and with seats below and a balcony above to soak up all views and without the hustle and bustle and endless queue for Pimms. I truly felt honoured and maybe a little spoilt. This year Land Rover were celebrating their 70th anniversary with an eye catching and grand display complete with a toy remote controlled track for children to play and an adult track for enthusiasts to experience the extreme conditions Land Rover can perform in. I have to say I never thought I would be so excited to learn about suspension and gear differentials. I do indeed have a whole new love and respect for these iconic British cars. The Donut challenge was thrilling and the British touring and world rally cars were crowd pleasing and full of energy. I attempted the hill-climb, but there were

so many interesting things to see and do on the way I kept getting side tracked. I even jumped inside a Lewis Hamilton race simulator which I would not suggest doing after lunch. The sculpture in front of the Goodwood house is a focal point and since 1997 has been commissioned by Gerry Judah. This year celebrated seventy years of Porsche. Judah's range gives the central feature a burst of burst of excitement and anticipation for annual event goers as he collaborates with car manufactures to wow guests. The Festival of Speed promises every year to be louder and faster despite the burst of the new and exciting electric age. I have always loved the unmistakable and very loud roar of the V-8 engine. I recently noticed an ad by Ford for the new Mustang which says 'Don't Go Quietly'. The thrilling sounds that these machines make is all apart of this epic experience and I certainly hope with the evolution of cars we do not lose this. This world-renowned celebration of the motor vehicle is continuing to inject new and spectacular elements. Come rain or shine The Festival of Speed goes from strength to strength and Sussex should be proud. It’s hard to believe this stunning event all started with one man, a love of cars and a race on his driveway. The Festival of Speed takes place in late June or early July and being just as fast paced as the cars, you will see tickets go on sale immediately as one year comes to a close. There is no time to waste and with demand being so high I would suggest getting into pole position and booking while you have the chance! Lindsay Katherine Hills

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T ra dition & I nn o vatio n R

Exclusive

Je w e l r y IBIZA

w w w.d e l te mpe l s.co m

Natasha Dahlberg From her formative years growing up in Ibiza, Natasha Dahlberg’s designs epitomise the essence of Bohemian luxury. Absolute’s Kasia discovers more about this talented jewellery designer and her sublime hand-made pieces.

“

I enjoy taking materials like diamonds and emeralds which are often handled in a traditional way in jewellery design and making them more approachable and mixing them in unexpected ways."

our beautiful creations genuinely epitomise the bohemian Ibiza essence. Tell us about growing up on the White Island? I was lucky enough to grow up in Ibiza in the late 70’s, and 80’s when it was at its wildest, most unspoilt and enchanting. It was full of colourful trailblazers from all over the world who chanced upon the island and tapped into its magic. It felt to me like my parents, and their friends were like the original cast and crew of Ibiza. They set the template for the wild full moon parties, the glamorous discos, the bohemian hippie markets. All

of this against the backdrop of the intense physical beauty of the place has made me feel extremely privileged to have grown up there. How do you compare the current lifestyle on the island with your childhood days? The incredible thing about Ibiza is its resilience. One would imagine with the huge amount of traffic coming through that it would lose some of its magic but you only have to turn up on one of the beaches early in the morning or stand in a field full of almond blossom and nothing’s changed. Sadly the days of not needing much money to live on the island are over, and that makes it tough as a permanent home for many people. It’s a rich man’s game now. How did you start and develop your jewellery business? I was working as an actress and needed another string to my bow to support myself. Luckily my parents were collectors of beautiful gems and beads, so it seemed natural to me to use these in my designs. Initially, I sold jewellery to my friends, and it sort of grew from there. I began selling in small boutiques like The Cross,

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then Harvey Nichols and Liberty. I did a small collection for Matthew Williamson and was lucky enough to get a loyal client base in New York, London and Ibiza What materials do you like to use? The natural world produces such a beautiful array of precious and semi-precious material that it’s almost impossible to choose. For me it depends on the mood of a collection; for example, I designed one recently called ‘Sunken Treasures’ where I used natural Tahitian and South sea pearls combined with antique gold charms to create a story. I enjoy taking materials like diamonds and emeralds which are often handled in a traditional way in jewellery design and making them more approachable and mixing them in unexpected ways. Who is your typical client? I’m thrilled to say I don’t have a typical client; my jewellery seems to attract people of all ages and walks of life, and I feel very proud that it appeals to such a cross-section of people. To me, that feels like I’m getting something right. I will say a trait all my customers share is an eye for something a little bit different.

Your collections evoke both a bohemian and glamorous style. How do you define luxury? I like the idea of making luxury something accessible; wearing black diamonds with a bikini on the beach, combing serious pearls with funky charms and flip-flops. Luxury to me has to be something that awakens your senses but at the same time makes you feel comfortable. Gold is a great example of luxury; it always enhances and warms its wearer. Tell us about your most exclusive jewellery piece to date? I made a necklace called “The Galaxy” in which I used hundreds of champagne coloured diamonds and gold beads to create a piece which reminded me of a milky way of stars and planets. How do you occupy yourself during the winter months? My winter months are spent in Ovingdean, just outside Brighton. I’m lucky enough to live in a beautiful Arts and Crafts era house with a gorgeous view of both the South Downs and the sea. Designing jewellery collections, writing screenplays and bringing up three children takes up all my time and my life is very busy. What is your favourite Ibiza place everyone should visit and why? Not an easy question to answer as I have so many places I adore, but I have to say sitting on Benirras beach in the early morning sun with a cafe con leche after a swim to the rock is pretty much as good as it gets. Kasia Kash www.facebook.com/kasiacreative/ www.natashadahlberg.com/

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T HR E E DA YS OF FI ZZ, fi lli es & FROLI CS

8/9/10 AUGUST

£18 b e gamb l e awa re .o rg

Del Tempels Absolute Magazine talks to Delphine Tempels, the creator behind the luxury Ibizan jewellery brand Del Tempels

Explain to us the start up of the brand. How did it begin? My mother and father have always been in close connection with the artistic world and work in it. They have transmitted all that passion to me. I originally worked as an actress but the most important thing for me was to be able to creative every day. Having previously studied for more than two years in Fine Arts, with sculpture being my favourite medium, I felt incredibly inspired when I met Andres, who worked on cinema sets and props. I had the honour of watching him reproducing old pieces, medals and Roman coins for a movie by making a mould and then creating the items in resin. When I turned 30 I decided to resume my work with my hands but applying my artistic skills that I have been acquiring and in a world that always fascinated me; jewellery. I created my first pieces and very soon the professional sector showed a lot of interest in my work and they have since helped me to form the brand and products I present today. How has the business grown to be where it is now? What has contributed to your success? The philosophy behind the brand Del Tempels has always remained the same, but the brand has developed as it has grown. The most important thing for me for me is to respect my philosophy: Be Unique. This has always been the same and the backbone to which the collections have been formed upon. What is different now to when I first started is that more people know and appreciate my work. I can create the really exclusive pieces for the exclusive person. Many professionals are now offering me their help for photos, web, shooting, so that everything has consistency. The press want to meet me and stylists now use my jewellery for famous actresses. The very high-end jewellery shop want my designs, I have many forthcoming exhibitions, and I will soon be making my first appearances in Fashion Weeks.

I am proud to say that I have just won a first prize award in a contest organised by The Gemological Institute of Madrid for the “Viaje a la luna” bracelet. I think the most important factors contributing to my success has been my perseverance every day and my non-conformity. I have always continued and progressed with the same initial ideal: tradition and innovation, timeless and high quality. I want to continue learning and give more. What inspires you and your designs ? Nature and culture. I was born in Belgium (Brussels) but I have lived in Spain for 14 years (Madrid-Ibiza). I’m steeped in various cultures. Apparently these are similar European cultures but they really are quite different. The tradition is different and the character, the way of life, the way of speaking, the way to dress, the light, the weather, the art and the nature. I live with that day in and day out and that is reflected in all my designs. Ibiza is magical and has a fascinating nature; the sea with its reflections and the night with its stars and its magic. It is what attracts

“

My philosophy and my way of thinking about a jewel has much to do with the materials I use. For me, a jewel has to stand the test of time

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me the most. Both the sea and the night play with light and shadows, both of which play an important part in the conception of a jewel. Now your starting to become a recognised brand, have you worked with any fashion brands or campaigns you can share with us? Not at the moment, but it is something I would love to do in the future. How has the advent of social media impacted on you? I can see from your online presence you seem to embrace this? In today's world, social networks are very important. I try to maintain an online presence but it is not the main thing for me and I'm not very passionate about it. It is my website that really showcases my jewellery. I think it is essential and it allows me to promote my work and make myself known anywhere in the world. A special thanks to Fran Marcos for the website design! What materials do you enjoy working with most ? My philosophy and my way of thinking about a jewel has much to do with the materials I use. For me, a jewel has to stand the test of time, allowing it to be timeless for its materials and designs. Therefore each material has something different to contribute, depending on the type of pieces and the designs, be it more artistic or classical. I only work with precious metals (sterling silver-925ml, gold 18k-750ml), classic gemstones and precious stones I have found. How do you stay relevant and current? Where do you get your inspiration from? Ever since I was a little, I’ve been lucky enough to have an artistic education, encouraging me to be curious and non-conformist. I’m constantly searching. It is important to have an artistic criterion and to, over time, always refine it. In art, you can understand and learn from past and current cultures. It is also very important to understand and keep up-to-date with what happens in today’s society and in fashion trends. You should know what your message is and what you offer. That is what makes you different, because it’s so very personal. In the tradition is the innovation.

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Del Tempels Which project's are you really excited about for 2018/19? Are there any future plans you can share with us? At the moment I have many events coming up that both excite and inspire me and I’m really happy and grateful. On July 27th, my pieces will parade in Miami Fashion Week and in August I am participating in a benefit/ charity event in the Casino of Galicia (Rías Baixas) with other colleagues in profession with the “Asosiación Joyas de Autor”. In October, I am invited take my jewels and present them at the incredible Marbella Fashion Week. It’s fantastic because I will be amongst many internationally-renowned designers. After that I have a exposition in Madrid (October) and in Brussels (November). Why are your designs and service so different to other businesses within the industry? What can Del Tempels clients expect? My designs are all unique. I do not work with moulds. I remake the designs one by one with my hands in my atelier in Ibiza. The granulation is always different. I see my designs like patterns in sewing because I like to create by the person. I don’t like the industrial or chain work. I like to create, personalise and take care of the details. With each client, I offer a special and exclusive treatment. I value the time and that is luxury. I offer exactly that: time, quality and unique, exclusive designs. How has being based in Ibiza helped your business? Ibiza has its own name and attracts a lot of people from all over the world for holidays and business. My creations can therefore reach very varied and interesting people. Ibiza is a paradise for an artist. My atelier is in the middle of a field, in a typical Ibizan house. I need the tranquility and nature to connect with me in order for me to create and Ibiza is perfect. However, I also need to sometimes get out of Ibiza to see other world cultures, theatre, city movement and for my work (materials, laboratory of metal and certificate, stones, exhibitions, world of art and fashion etc). Do you feel the country’s high creativity levels have contributed to your further success? Yes, completely. Many artists come to Ibiza. For example, this is how I met my friend Eric Ceccarini, an awesome photographer. He lives here with his family and offered me his talent as a photographer in order to help me to have some quality and different photos.

www.deltempels.com Photography by Éric Ceccarini, Laurent Tempels, Aida Matei.

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With each client, I offer a special and exclusive treatment. I value the time and that is luxury. I offer exactly that: time, quality and unique, exclusive designs.”

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info@thegintub.co.uk | www.thegintub.co.uk The Gin Tub | 16 Church Road | Hove | BN3 2FL

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Available in Ibiza exclusively at

CULT DESIGNER FASHION AND EXCLUSIVE SUNGLASSES

Blue Marlin Ibiza Cala Jondal Calle Bisbe Azara, 1 Ibiza Old Town 971 318 939 www.revolveribiza.com

TIME TO PLACE YOUR BETS: BRIGHTON WELCOMES THE MARATHONBET

Festival Of Racing

ummertime wouldn’t be complete without a day at the races and few days out have the charm or the spectacular views of Brighton Racecourse – which dates back to 1783. It is the place to be this August, once again, for the three-day Marathonbet Festival of Racing, which will celebrate the 2nd year of an exciting partnership with the online bookmaker. This iconic venue will be teaming with racegoers all dressed to impress and looking for a win from 8th – 10th August.

Opening the Marathonbet Festival of Racing on Wednesday 8th August is the Marston’s Race Day featuring Brighton’s richest race – the Hobgoblin Brighton Mile. Thursday 9th August brings the hugely popular Ladies’ Day where the glamorous and stylish congregate; and closing the festival is the Festival Finale on Friday 10th August. Throughout this popular three-day event there will be music and entertainment, food trucks, vintage pop-up bars, a ladies’ lawn with a complimentary photobooth airstreamer, and, of course, seven exciting races each day to get your heart pumping.

“ We welcome

you to come and experience for yourself one of the friendliest racecourses in the UK. We have so much planned for the festival and can’t wait to make it the best one yet.”

It is planned to be the festival of the summer where over 15,000 people will attend, 1,500 bottles of prosecco are consumed, 1,000 bowls of fresh strawberries are served and 7,000 pairs of high heels will be cast aside by the end of the three days!

Brighton Racecourse and Marathonbet will also be engaging with racing fans in the run-up to the festival with competitions to win prizes and tickets, so keep a look out on social media.

Tickets start at £18 across all three days. Hospitality packages have been extended this year to include fine dining in our luxury marquee across both Ladies’ Day on Thursday and Festival Finale on the Friday.

Absolute Sussex readers have the opportunity to purchase an exclusive luxury hospitality package for £101pp (rrp is £111) for either day (Thursday or Friday) with extensive tables booked already. This package is perfect for an exclusive summer networking event in Brighton and includes a table / places for the afternoon in our luxury marquee, admission to the Premier Enclosure, raceday programme, drinks reception, three-course lunch, half bottle of wine per person, host for the afternoon, tipster and entertainment. Just contact the hospitality team on 01273 5603580 to book your table today. So pick your day, pick your outfit and pick your winner! For more information or to buy tickets, please visit: www. brighton-racecourse.co.uk

Executive Director of Brighton Racecourse, Paul Ellison, commented: “We welcome

you to come and experience for yourself one of the friendliest racecourses in the UK. We have so much planned for the festival and can’t wait to make it the best one yet.”

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Pick your day, pick your outfit and pick your winner! ABSOLUTE

Pride Brighton & Hove Pride has truly blossomed in to a 3 day festival of entertainment for the LGBTQ+ community and all our allies.

Pride LGBTQ+ Community Parade (SAT 4th AUG) As the sun peeps over the horizon on Saturday 4th August, the floats, marching bands, community groups and a bevy of beauties will assemble on Hove Lawns ready for the Pride LGBTQ+ Community Parade supported by Gatwick Airport. At 11am on the dot they will sing, dance and sashay their way along the seafront for a crowd of over 300,000 spectators before winding through the city centre and heading up to Preston Park. Pride Festival (SAT 4th AUG) At 12 noon the gates to the Pride Festival On The Park will be flung open for 10 hours of the most joyous celebration of Pride, a dazzling display of inclusivity, and just about as much fun as you can have with your clothes on! The huge main stage will feature headliner Britney: Piece Of Me with her full Vegas show as well as very special performances from Ella Eyre, Pixie Lott, MNEK, Mabel, Louise and many more. But it’s not all about the main stage. Elsewhere on the park the Legends Cabaret Big Top is the sequinned sensation at the heart of the Brighton Pride Festival with a rich artistes palette of the very best of the UK’s LGBTQ+ cabaret scene. Little Gay Brother will host the Pride Dance Big Top in association with Lynx Unity creating a sexy and safe space for LGBTQ+ revellers to party without prejudice. The Diva Girls Dance Tent hosts a plethora of the hottest female DJ talent in the UK mixing up the dirtiest most underground deep house and techno with a sprinkling of classic hands in the air dance anthems.… and BRÜT is back in the Men’s Tent again for its third year! London’s infamous juggernaut of a men-only club for blokes, bears, cubs and hunks will bring

10 hours of the most joyous celebration of Pride, a dazzling display of inclusivity, and just about as much fun as you can have with your clothes on!

their testosterone-packed, masculine stack of furry daddies, chunky cubs, lean lads and man mountains... BRÜT-tastic! There is also the all new QueerTown Stage, Urban World Dance Tent, Sheila McWattie Women’s Performance Stage, Family Diversity Area, Community Village supported by American Express, Well Being Area, Rotunda Ballroom Stage and more community, charity, food and retail stalls that you can shake a glittered stick at. LoveBN1Fest (SUN 5th AUG) For the first time, this year sees a brand new Pride Sunday Festival on Preston Park, LoveBN1Fest, helping raise extra funds for the Pride Social Impact Fund.

LoveBN1Fest will celebrate everything Brighton and Hove and bring all our communities and Rainbow families together for an afternoon of fun on the park (children under 14 are free!). Headlining the main stage is the legendary Grammy-winning composer, producer, arranger, guitarist Nile Rodgers and his multi-platinum selling band CHIC, as well as Grammy winning number one selling artists Jess Glynne, double BRIT award winner Gabrielle, up and coming star Raye, the amazing House Gospel Choir and many more.

There is also a plethora of family fun and entertainment with the Circus Project, Circo Rum Ba Ba, BubbleJo, Guilty Pleasures Dance Tent, BN1 Loves Disco tent, BIMM Live Music Stage and more. Pride Pleasure Gardens FRI 3rd – SUN 5th AUG) Kicking off on Friday 3rd August, the Pride

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Pleasure Gardens, supported by Malta Tourism Authority, returns to its city-centre home on Old Steine for the 3rd year running. The home-grown talents of Boogaloo Bingo opens proceedings with outfits more outrageous Brighton Pavilion, platforms higher than the i360, corsets more sparkling than a glitterball factory and a tonne of bawdy salty Brighton humour. Next up, and fresh from their sold out show at Soho Theatre, London’s premier drag king troupe Pecs the all-female/non-binary theatre and cabaret company are storming their way into Brighton Pride with some of their greatest hits. These boys will tease, please and bring you to your knees. Rounding off the Friday night shenanigans, the Official Pre Pride Warm Up Party hosted by London’s BOMBSHELL club promises a glamour-tastic explosion of pop and commercial dance music from 10pm-2am... and it’s FREE entry before 11pm! Drag Queens, Drag Kings, Club Kids, live shows and more.

All tickets revenue raised goes directly to the operational and running costs of producing the Pride Festival, LGBTQ+ Community Parade, Pride Village Party and community fundraising for the Rainbow Fund and Pride Social Impact Fund.

Saturday at the Pride Pleasure Gardens will feature a Queer TakeOver by Calabash, The Marlborough Pub & Theatre, and Traumfrau where you are invited to dance to your favourite DJs, see some sh*t hot acts, and queer up your Pride weekend like you mean it! Afterwards sees a very special late show as Sink The Pink Presents Ta’Dah, a freaky camptastic, high octane romp through 12 high energy, hair flicking performances! Combining the diverse drag collectives best performances over the last ten years with jaw dropping performance and healthy dose of naughtiness. The Pride Pleasure Gardens Sunday starts as always with an invitation to grab your dancing shoes and step our way for an afternoon of LGBTQ+ Community Line Dancing as we dos-à-dos together to a

rainbow soundtrack of country and western wonders for a proud Stetson filled session. Then the reigns are handed over to London’s The Glory who serve up Wild, Wild, West realness with their Big Gay Barn Dance all day party. A day in 3 pistol-packing parts, first up, get your Dolly Parton look on as The Glory’s very own landlady & drag legend John Sizzle has lassoed her dream team of London’s hottest drag sensations to line-dance, spin country-inspired music and perform live! Next up we have an Iconic Madonna Cabaret special featuring Madonna’s greatest hits re-worked and reimagined in a Vogue-tastic 2 hour homage to the undisputed Queen of Pop! Finally, we round off the glorious Brighton Pride weekend with an ‘Apocalipstick’ of a queer anthem party! ‘Spice up your life’ and dance to all the gay bangers that have brought joy to our community! About Brighton Pride Brighton and Hove Pride is the UK’s biggest Pride Festival operated by Brighton Pride CIC, a not for profit community interest company. All tickets revenue raised goes directly to the operational and running costs of producing the Pride Festival, LGBTQ+ Community Parade, Pride Village Party and community fundraising for the Rainbow Fund and Pride Social Impact Fund. Pride has raised over £450,000 for the Rainbow Fund and Pride Social Impact Fund in the last five years. The Rainbow Fund has a remit to receive donations and to use them to give grants to LGBTQ+ and HIV groups and organisations in Brighton and Hove. The Pride Social Impact Fund benefits local good causes giving grants to a range of local groups. Brighton-Pride.org

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in Performing Arts

www.brictt.co.uk

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NOW!

DEGREES AND DIPLOMAS

THE FLOAT SPA Floating on Third Avenue

Brighton and Hove is well known for being a mecca of good living and wellbeing, boasting an increasingly healthy dose of spas, gyms and retreats, all focusing on achieving your optimum self.

itting just off the seafront in the prestigious location of Third Avenue, Hove, is one the city’s leading destinations for health and wellness; The Float Spa. Offering a range of complementary therapies, yoga and meditation classes, The Float Spa also brings state of the art floatation pods to the city. Yes, that’s right, floatation. For those of us who are a little rusty on the latest spa tech and therapies, it’s a little mind boggling. What exactly is ‘floatation’ and why is it any different to nipping down the road to the sea? Well, after a little essential research, we can tell you now it is life changing. Floating, also known as floatation, is a practice where you float effortlessly in a special pod of Epsom Salt water. Without the constant noise of analysing the world around you, your body lowers its levels of cortisol (which is the main chemical component of stress). Your brain releases elevated levels of dopamine and endorphins.

Your muscles, joints, and bones take a well-deserved break. Your mind becomes still and your body suddenly has loads of extra resources, which allows it to focus on things like healing and resting – the stress simply floats away. The spine lengthens an inch, chronic pain is relieved, and your muscles are allowed to fully recover. Unlike lying on a mattress, lying in water allows blood to flow freely all throughout your body.

About 40 minutes into your float at The Float Spa, your brain stops producing its normal Alpha waves and starts churning out Theta waves. The Theta state is typically associated with advanced meditative techniques and provides an immense clarity of thought and an experience of the pure essence of being. Floatation is a tool that makes this state easily accessible to anyone. Even the magnesium-based Epsom Salts, used at The Float Spa in Hove are good for you. They soften and replenish your skin, and help counteract the magnesium deficiency that most of us have due to depleted magnesium levels in our soil and food.

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We couldn’t believe we hadn’t tried it before, especially as floating packages start from just £65 - hardly a stress of strain on the purse strings and most certainly a fine investment.

What makes The Float Spa an award-winning health and wellbeing centre in Hove isn’t just the fact they offer floatation. They also offer yoga, massage, chiropractic care, nutrition advice and a whole host of different workshops under one roof, married with outstanding customer service and a serene, friendly atmosphere. Whether you visit for a float in one of the state of the art pods, an appointment with a chiropractor, a relaxing massage or a stimulating yoga class, you are guaranteed to leave feeling better and less stressed.

The Float Spa massage therapists are on hand to tailor the perfect treatment just for you including deep tissue, aromatherapy, pregnancy, medical, Swedish, sports and Indian head massage.

Described by their customers as a ‘haven in Hove’, the team wanted the Float Spa to be a place people could go to escape from the stresses and strains of daily life, find relief from physical and mental pain and enhance their wellbeing. The idea to open the Float Spa came from the floating experience of the founder, Camille Pierson.

As well as being the managing director of The Float Spa, Camille is also a mum of two and it was due to her daughter, Dali, becoming ill that Camille discovered floating. Poor Dali suffered a serious illness in 2014 which led her to spend time in St George’s Paediatric Intensive Care Unit. Fortunately, she made a full recovery but the experience was incredibly traumatic for Camille who had to juggle her daughter’s recovery with a full time stressful job and found herself suffering from PTSD. Her father suggested she try floating to alleviate her symptoms. She was so impressed with the results she decided to open her own floatation centre in Brighton and Hove as there wasn’t one in the area at the time.

Since opening the spa on Third Avenue in Hove, Camille floats regularly and has discovered the wonders of yoga too. Her experience of yoga has also been so positive that she is now a Trustee of the Brighton Yoga Foundation charity, which endeavours to bring all the benefits of yoga to as many people as possible. The spacious central Hove spa also boasts a yoga studio that is the perfect sanctuary to practice Yoga. It has oodles of natural light yet is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city. They offer an extensive programme

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of over 30 yoga classes every day of the week. Whether you are an experienced yoga practitioner or a complete beginner, there is a class suitable for you, be it Vinyasa Flow, Kundalini, Hatha or Yin Yang Yoga. If you are suffering from aches and pains, an injury, or are simply looking to relax and unwind, The Float Spa massage therapists are on hand to tailor the perfect treatment just for you including deep tissue, aromatherapy, pregnancy, medical, Swedish, sports and Indian head massage. Chiropractic is the third largest primary healthcare profession in the world after Medicine and Dentistry and is regulated by the General Chiropractic Council (the GCC). Owing to its primary health care status, you do not need a referral from your GP to see a Chiropractor. The chiropractors at The Float Spa in Hove, specialise in the diagnosis, treatment, management and prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal system (that’s bones, joints and muscles) as well as the impact these disorders can have on the nervous system and general health.

Most people think Chiropractors only work on backs, however problems with hips, shoulders, arms and legs can be addressed to. This is why Chiropractic can be extremely effective for most functional injuries, combining this with a floatation experience reinforces chiropractic treatment. For more information visit www.thefloatspa.co.uk

BRICTT One Year On

After an intense, challenging and wonderful year, the Brighton Institute for Contemporary Theatre Training (BRICTT) has just bid a temporary farewell to their first ever cohort of Training Professionals at the start of the summer holidays.

BRICTT opened its doors to students for the first time in September 2017 offering a BA (Hons) course in Performing Arts to Brighton. The arrival of this exciting new course feels in keeping with the eclectic and creative nature of the city, and its close associations with BIMM and Brighton Film School make it a thriving centre for the performing arts, with many opportunities for collaboration and a sharing of facilities. In addition to the BA (Hons), BRICTT also offers an A levelequivalent diploma course in Performing Arts.

Brighton provides the perfect backdrop for both courses, and students are encouraged to participate in its vibrant arts scene. In May BA (Hons) students performed at The Warren as part of the Fringe Festival, in an innovative re - working of the Frankenstein story. The production received great reviews, and put BRICTT on the map as a school that is pushing boundaries in its explorations of contemporary theatre practice. Meanwhile Diploma students have performed Arthur Miller, and Shakespeare, as well as rounding off the year with a resoundingly successful version of Cabaret. Performances took place at a number of locations in Brighton, including the highly atmospheric venue, The Spire. BRICTT is the brainchild of Mia Bird, an industry veteran with decades of experience working in all areas of the entertainment business. Mia’s goal is to train highly talented individuals, not only to develop and deepen their skills, but also to expand their thinking and to equip them with the ability to survive and flourish in a competitive industry. Mia believes it is essential for a performer to be able to market themselves and to produce their own work. The crux of the philosophy behind the course curriculum and

delivery method for BRICTT is to present the industry with individuals who are not only talented and professionally trained, but also well equipped, physically and mentally, to face the inevitable challenges they will encounter. The core syllabus therefore includes topics such as physical fitness, mental resilience, professional development, money management and entrepreneurial skills. These are areas unlikely to appear within most curriculums for Performing Arts Courses.

Mia has hand - picked her faculty, who are all working practitioners with years of experience of both the industry and of teaching at HE level. Core training is boosted by regular sessions led by specific industry professionals from the West End, Television and Film. The staff team has been curated to provide a robust and extensive training for our students. The BRICTT mantra is built on engaging the students in high quality vocational training to develop the necessary skills and then use the extensive network of film, TV and theatre professionals to propel their careers into the working professional world.

BRICTT’s degree is validated by The University of Sussex, which is listed as one of the top twenty British Universities. This means that graduating students will leave with a highly prestigious qualification. Crucially, with that validation comes student funding, enabling talented individuals to train regardless of their financial backgrounds. Down to the huge success of the existing Extended Diploma in Performing Arts delivered at Brighton Aldridge Community Academy, BRICTT are launching at a second

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campus; Portslade Aldridge Community Academy. This is a fully funded, full time training programme for 16-18 year olds. It is a two-year intensive course focussed on developing performance skills, improving acting, dancing and singing technique, as well as making connections with the entertainment industry. Career Development classes will give a thorough understanding of the performance industry and where the students might fit within it. Practical classes cover a multitude of styles and disciplines, including Shakespeare, Text Analysis Book Musicals, Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Street Dance, Musical Theatre, Pop and Jazz. Impressed by the results of the inaugural year and intrigued to hear more from the institute’s pioneering Founder, Absolute Sussex met up with Mia Bird to get the lowdown on how our readers can start their journey in the world of show business…. If our readers would like to apply for a course, where do they start and what is the process? If you would like to join us, head straight to our website www.brictt. co.uk and click the ‘Apply Now’ button or for the degree you can go through UCAS.

Are your students mainly from the Brighton area or from far and wide? The Diploma course is predominantly Brighton based, however we have students coming from London, Portsmouth and Eastbourne. For the degree we have students coming from all over the UK as well France, Norway and Portugal.

It’s notoriously difficult to ‘make it’ in the entertainment industry. What, aside from skill, does it take to break through? In order to sustain a career in the performing arts it is

not only essential that actors are trained to perform at the highest level, they should also be equipped, both mentally and physically, to face the challenges that they will inevitably encounter as they enter the business. We take the wellbeing of our students very seriously at BRICTT, offering a unique approach which embeds the practice of daily meditation and mindfulness into the fabric of the training. The actor’s secret weapons are a strong mind, self-respect and quiet self-confidence. To what extent do you feel your students benefit from being based in the notoriously creative city of Brighton? There are myriad benefits to studying in Brighton. We have close links to Brighton Fringe – England’s largest arts festival and partners with BIMM and Brighton Film School. Brighton, has over 30,000 current students, a beach on its doorstep, and the shopping areas of the North Laine and The Lanes, full of independent stores and entertainment businesses selling everything from clothes and music, to furniture and art. There are many theatres and live performance venues across the city, as well as hundreds of bars, pubs and clubs, and a vibrant gay scene. It’s a city where ‘being you’ is celebrated – an ethos very much in line with our own, whilst being close enough to London to be a the heart of the action. BRICTT is already renowned for the institute’s connections within the business and the impressive portfolio of guest teachers. Who is in the BRICTT connections hall of fame? Our industry connections are second to none. These are some of the most successful people in the business today and they will be instrumental in preparing you for your career in the performing arts industry

BRICTT patron Julian Stoneman is a West End and Broadway Producer. With over three decades of exhaustive experience in all aspects of theatre, starting with stage management at the age of 20, Julian is an industry veteran. Some of Julian’s credits include: Mama Mia, Billy Elliot, Rock of Ages, Urinetown, Let It Be and Finding Neverland, and his productions have won Laurence Olivier, Tony and WhatsOnStage Awards. Over the years Julian has worked with both the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre. He also sits on the Board of Management for the Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and co-produces the Laurence Olivier Awards. Julian endorses the BRICTT ethos and joins us as our Patron. He takes a personal interest in our training professionals and will be visiting BRICTT frequently to pass on his expertise. He believes that graduates from BRICTT have the highest possible chance of success. For know more information visit www.brictt.co.uk

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OLIVER CUNNINGHAM CUCKFIELD

“His colouring is flawless” Leona Lewis

“My favourite hairdressers, I can’t recommend then highly enough’” Lottie Moss

MEET THE TEAM

Oliver Cunningham

Richard Humphreys

Morgan Rhodes

Jon Moore

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Louise Brown

Poppy Payne

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FIZZ F& FOOD East Beach Café

The Bali Brasserie

Limetree Kitchen

1| Littlehampton: Sea Road, BN17 5GB East Beach Cafe was completed in June 2007 and has since won more than twenty national and international awards for design, architecture, steelwork, craftsmanship and engineering. Not dissimilar to the hull of a ship, it is a self-supporting structure and an extremely complicated piece of engineering. The whole process from commissioning the architect, Thomas Heatherwick, to completion took 18 months. Thomas heads one of the world’s leading design practices and was described recently by The Times as “the most creative mind in Britain”, the East Beach Cafe was his first UK building. The emphasis is on fresh fish and locally sourced produce, cooked in a style that lets the quality shine through. The Ritz trained kitchen team produce a standard of food that is fit for such an amazing setting.

5| The Bali Brasserie is proud to present vegan, vegetarian and dairy free dining as well as gluten free. The restaurant inside, ‘Rijsttafe’, (the rice table) is Indonesian themed food on a set menu, but they are able to adapt a meal to almost any dietary requirements. Meaning there is no reason to not go and enjoy yourself. There is something for everyone at The Bali Brasserie.

2| Douglas McMaster, owner and head chef has spent many years working in some of the UK’s and Europe’s top restaurants. You can expect to see a fair sized menu created with seasonal foraged ingredients that come together to give you a unique dinning experience. Some of the dishes so far have been Sea Buckthorn and Elderberry fool for dessert and potato steak, elephant garlic, alliums and herbs.

Memories of India

10| Lewes: 14 Station Road, BN7 2DA The Limetree Kitchen isn’t all about food, they have a unique “Gin Kitchen” which makes them stand out from the crowd. You can choose from their fantastic range of gins on offer and let them mix up a perfect blend of gin & tonic. If you fancy staying the night in Lewes, you can book a night in their elegant accommodation – “The Room”. If you are visiting Lewes for site seeing, or a special occasion getaway, The Room would be the perfect place to stay for a luxurious night after a delicious meal in the Limetree Kitchen restaurant. The menu consists of tapas style small plates which give diners the opportunity to try more on the menu. This is an informal way of eating out and you can either share a few dishes with friends or enjoy them on your own. Their simple menu is split into sections which include Vegetarian, Fish, Meat, Nibbles and Desserts.

Silo

Curry Leaf Cafe

3| The original Curry Leaf Cafe is located in the heart of Brighton's bustling Lanes, just a couple of minutes' walk from the beach. This colourful, laid-back 75-seat dining space – decked out with exposed brick walls, wooden tables and vintage Indian design touches – operates as a cafe-cum-lunch spot during the day, offering a range of coffees, teas, snacks and traditional South Indian street food, as well as more substantial meals such as thali platters, dosas and Masala-battered fish 'n chips. In the evenings diners can experience the cafe’s small but diverse dinner menu of tandoor-grilled meats, street food dishes and expertly spiced curries, accompanied by Brighton's best range of craft beers and spiced cocktails.

Eatalio

4| Eatalio is a recently new addition to Brighton’s food scene, and is located on Queens Road, abouta 5 min walk from the station near Brighton’s clock tower. Inspired by the simple, yet healthy food served from the street carts in Italy, Eatalio provides affordable, grab and go food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A great venue to pop into and dogs are most welcome. No servicesfor dogs, they just allow them in the venue.

Riddle & Finns

6| Another favourite in the restaurant scene, Riddle & Finns offer wonderful seafood platter as well as shellfish too, they do also cater for gluten free. Reservations are not Necessary unexpectedly, however it is recommended on the weekends as it can be very busy. Riddle & Finns also own a second venue on the seafront, both perfect for a special occasion. 7| Offering traditional Indian food in a variety of flavours from all over the continent. If you’re gluten intolerant then you will be pleased to know that gluten is very rare in all Indian food due to the lack of wheat flour. On Tuesdays, you can enjoy a five-course buffet menu for £12.95

Wolfies of Hove

8| Family run business that pride themselves in serving the finest, sustainable fish alongside locally sourced potatoes. Having served the Brighton & Hove area for over 25 years we know that quality is of the utmost importance, with carefully selected suppliers so that they can provide you good quality, fresh ingredients. Boosting The best fish in Brighton & Hove. The fish is the freshest sustainable fish available in Brighton & Hove, and our handmade pies using all local ingredients. They challenge anyone to serve up tastier, fresher & more wholesome fish.

The Urchin Pub in Hove

11| One of Brighton’s newest offerings, the Urchin craft beer and shellfish pub is a wholly unique concept. Entirely dedicated to shellfish, matched with a range of over 100 craft beers The Urchin is something Brighton and Hove has never seen before. Seats 30 covers in the restaurant, the menu predominantly features prawns, lobster, crab and scallops.

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Terre a terre

9| Terre a Terre is an iconic, award winning restaurant where being vegetarian is about more than just not eating meat. You can expect a variety of flavours and foods to try when you arrive. Much more interesting than the standard stuffed mushroom.

Pelham House

12| Lewes: St Andrews Lane, BN7 1UW Pelham House Lewes is a beautiful 16th century town house hotel in the heart of Lewes and one of East Sussex’s hidden gems, just 10 minutes from Brighton. Right off the High Street you will find the historic building, set in an extensive secret garden, Pelham House is perfect for dining alfresco or an afternoon tea. The house & garden has been exquisitely restored to create a stylish venue, combining elegance and history. The head chef has developed a varied set of menus for their gallery, panelled room, garden room and dining outside on the terrace. The restaurant at Pelham House focuses on simple and delicious food, using good quality seasonal and locally sourced produce from Lewes and the county of Sussex. They regularly offer private dining to guests for special occasions and events.

Senor Buddha

13| Senor Buddha is a contemporary restaurant located in the up and coming area of London Road in the quirky coastal town of Brighton. Since its opening in 2015 it quickly became a popular destination for food-loving locals as well as tourists. The restaurant has won several awards and was featured in the dining out section of the Financial Times.

Chambers Bistro 14| Shoreham-by-Sea: Old Town Hall, High Street, BN43 5DD Chambers Bistro Shoreham is an independent family-run British bistro, serving all the popular classics with an emphasis on locally sourced produce in an elegant and centrally positioned venue. Located just 15 minutes West of Brighton & Hove along the seafront, or 5 minutes off the A27, this well-known restaurant boasts the splendour of a Grade II listed neo classical building with super stylish interiors. Features include stripped wooden floors and cream leather chairs, set among two softly lit dining areas. Think boutique and chic, romantic and intimate. Chambers Bistro is as sophisticated with its appearance as the food they serve.

Sylvan Oak

15| Findon: BN14 0TE The Sussex restaurant is situated 10 minutes north of the town of Worthing in the sleepy village of Findon. The Sylvan Oak prides itself on an evolving food culture, where their head chef and proprietor Sinan Kalan presents flavoured food with amazing visual presentation. The Sylvan Oak could be perfect for that intimate occasion on the sun terrace, or can be privately hire for a party or celebration. Open most days apart from Mondays, and open for lunch and dinners. The Cuisine described by the owner as “British Fusion” which I suppose is close to dine dining and modern European. Essentially the food is professionally prepared and influences stem far and wide giving you quite a varied menu.

The Fountain Inn, Ashurst

16| Beautiful olde worlde inn in the sleepy village of Ashurst. A free house and ‘Cask Marque’ accredited, the Fountain has plenty of local ales on offer as well as the more recognised international beers and lagers. Complete with wonky floorboards, inglenook fireplaces and the heart warming smell of homemade cooking wafting in from the kitchen, you will not want to go home.

Block. 8

17| Block. is a bar with a great wine list, bringing you lots of new young wineries / vineyards, the people who, in wine that are pushing the envelope a bit. The wine is supported with great craft on draft and Brighton's first and currently only charcoal and wood burning oven, working with only the best produce from local farms, fisherman and suppliers they offer you a local meat and fish menu with a basque influence coming through, the garden at block has also recently been improved even after being voted Brighton's best garden for the last two years. So if you want gourmet restaurant quality food, but enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a bar. BLOCK is the place for you.

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Rina Tairo

13 & 14 Prince Albert street Brighton, East Sussex bn1 1he t: 01273 774288 e: info@rinatairo.com www.rinatairo.com

FOR BEARDS THAT WORK HARD & PLAY HARD shop online at

www.eastwinggroomingco.co.uk @Eastwingroomingco

BARS & B BEATS The Crown and Anchor

Legends

Fortune of War

1|Shoreham-by-Sea: 33 High Street, West Sussex BN43 5DD Named after the town’s past with its port famed for smuggling, and centrally located on Shoreham’s high street, the Crown and Anchor is a must visit and very popular with locals and visitors alike. From the high street it looks like a regular run of the mill pub, but it hides a gorgeous restaurant with big glass windows and a patio area with outside seating which backs onto the river Adur. Perfect for alfresco dining and drinking on warm evenings, with spectacular views of the South Downs and the river itself.

5| Legends is a gay bar and hotel located on Marine Parade just a minute away from Palace 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 r ange of DJs at the weekends.

9| 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.

6| 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.

10| Hastings: 71 George Street, Old Town, East Sussex TN34 3EE Owned by the same people as the famous Dragon Bar in Shoreditch and centrally located in the Old Town in Hastings, just a stone’s throw away from the beach. This is a fantastic bar and eatery where during the day you can sample a diverse and delicious sounding menu made up of fresh local produce, and relax and watch the hustle and bustle of the old town. Beautifully decorated with local artwork with a lively and welcoming ambience. A vast selection of drinks with premium spirits, and live DJ’s at the weekend. Attracts an eclectic crowd of varying ages.

Idlewild

2| Haywards Heath: 65 The Broadway, West Sussex, West Sussex, RH16 3AS Centrally located in Haywards heath, this little Gem of a bar boasts cool funky décor, friendly expert mixologists with a great selection of cocktails and a wonderfully diverse and well thought food menu which caters for everyone. Pictures of sexy celebs adorn the walls of this cool atmospheric venue, which also boasts a great outdoor seated terrace area. Playing an excellent selection of music all day everyday with regular and guest DJ’s Friday and Saturday nights. A lot of thought has gone into this place and it shows.

32 Duke Street

3| 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.

My Hotel

4| 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.

Lion & Lobster

The Dead Parrot

7| Horsham: 21 Piries Place, RH12 1EH, West Sussex A cocktail bar with a difference! Opened by a group of bartenders in 2014 who are obviously passionate about their craft. The Dead Parrot boasts a fantastic menu of unique and eccentric cocktail as well as some classics, well as a fine selection of beers and delicious wines. Split over two floors with cool and quirky décor featuring some interesting taxidermy and a giant chessboard on the ceiling! An unashamedly hipster joint serving cocktails in all manner of vessels from beer cans with sombrero hats, to metal tankards and even the odd dainty glass. Lots of fun!

Hotel Du Vin

8| 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.

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The Dragon Bar

The Tempest Inn

11| 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.

MEAT liquor

12| 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.

La Havana 13| Chichester: 3 Little London, PO19 1PH A deep subterranean live music venue which is famed for its Jazz nights, though Whatever your particular taste in music, you will always find there to be a night to suit you here at La Havana. A fun and lively venue which is well thought out in design, you can easily find a spot to sit and chat away from the music whilst still enjoying it, or be right in the action. All in a vaulted basement for real atmosphere. Reasonably priced drinks to boot with beer at £3.00 a bottle.

The Loft Lounge and Bar

14| Eastbourne: 14 Station Street, East Sussex, BN21 4RG An elegant chic and sophisticated late night lounge and bar, spread over two floors, and carefully designed to create a unique and sumptuous atmosphere. The downstairs bar boasts an impressive circular bar backed onto a dazzling glass wall, and a skylight which floods the venue with natural light. Upstairs is a bit cosier and intimate, with various sized booths and a premium drinks bar. A fine selection of food and drinks on offer here, with delicious sounding cocktails and expert mixologists more than happy to make off-menu drinks. With live music every Friday and drinks offers throughout the week it’s easy to see why this is one of Eastbourne’s top rated nightspots.

Gin Tub 5

15| The exciting tastes of international gins in a superb interior of our newly opened Gin Tub Cocktail bar. Finally somewhere to drink after all the great Hove restaurants. With well over 80 gins – bespoke cocktails – craft beers and ales. We have also created flight boards to try new spirits. Bespoke Cocktails, craft beers, IPA’s and all the normal beers and spirits too. Under The Tub Welcome to the Rum Cage, where the spirits and specifically the rum never dry out. With a bar selection of some of the best rums, oh and of course some of our favourite gins.

Cocktail Shack 7

16| A unique and innovative bar hidden within the tall walls of Regency Square. They pride themselves on drinks as creative and bespoke as the Artist Residence itself, offering playful service and a passion for the product. We would urge everyone to check them out at The Shack for a taste of something new.

The Rocking Horse 8

17| Worthing: 3 The Broadway, Brighton Road, BN11 3EG Quirky pub serving cocktails and a limited beer and wine selection. Comfortable place for a chat with a rocking horse theme to the décor and a relaxed vibe. The best place in Worthing where you can go and experience trained mixologists who understand cocktails and flavours make your drinks! Reasonable prices for the quality of drinks too! A clean, light and airy venue with friendly staff to boot. They also offer a cocktail masterclass (daily) where for just £19.50 you can learn to make (and drink) three classic cocktails with a glass of prosecco included.

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COFFEE

CAKE

WORTHING

A brand new offering in Worthing. Finch Bar & Eatery has become an instant hit. Not just a coffee bar, but an all round bar eaterie.

I have become a regular to the new addition to Worthings much needed and improving bar and eaterie scene. Finch opened just a few weeks ago and has established itself very quickly. The Soho inspired design is impressive, a neat touch of Boho throughout and it's topped off with sunny outside drinking and eating area. The menu is really reasonably priced with a very contemporary mix of healthy food options. They are superbly presented and wellcooked dishes. My favourites are the delicious pancakes, cooked fluffy and covered in fruit and imported maple syrup, and the smashed avocado with bacon. The Bar selection features premium brands (including Camden Hells), and the coffees are just excellent. It's a pleasant surprise to go into an eaterie that doesn't call itself a Coffee Shop and then to be served a perfect Flat White. Intense, smooth, well balanced and

made to the right temperature. The coffee is top-notch. Finch is a total all-rounder. Breakfasts move on to lunch, coffee and cake rule the mid-afternoon (check the daily cake specials - they don't last long) and in the evening it becomes Worthing's newest bar hang-out. The staff are warm, very welcoming and accommodating, it's a part of why this place will become a destination visit. They always have a selection of daily newspapers at hand making it ideal for that window seat to enjoy their excellent coffee and relaxed vibe. Finch is situated on Warwick Street and has outdoor seating, great for people watching. Luxury breakfasts served from 7.30am. Bloody Mary's, Prosecco, Craft beer, wine and spirits! Sharing boards and light lunches. Inside and outside seating. 27 Warwick Street Worthing, West Sussex

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It's a pleasant surprise to go into an eaterie that doesn't call itself a Coffee Shop and then to be served a perfect Flat White”

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T H E

I V Y

I N

T H E

L A N E S ,

B R I G H T O N

The

IVY T

he Ivy is an internationally renowned and quintessentially British restaurant in the heart of London's west end and has been an iconic establishment since it first launched in 1917. As one of Britain's most loved and in demand brasseries you can find Hollywood A-listers dining with British royals. It’s been said that the roaring success of this superb restaurant is due to its integrity, history and an award winning recipe for balancing fine dining and the highest standards of traditional British hospitality. In 2014 the company decided to spread its magic and sensitively season a new breed of restaurants from coast to coast. The Ivy Collection is the new generation of localised fine dining establishments, bringing the inimitable flare of the majestic original, from the exquisite surroundings and impeccable service to the sensational modern British cuisine to which The Ivy is synonymous with. The Market Grill in London's Covent Garden was the first and just the start of a fierce four year nationwide rollout. Now with over thirty-three on the map and more to come, this is a very exciting time for the collection. I spoke to the Executive Director of operations Yishay Malkov, who enlightened me about The Ivy Collection. He explained that this national growth is not about recreating the original, but evolving from the well known restaurant and creating accessible glamour for all across the country. Each restaurant provides the same high standards of cuisine, in an environment that reflects the local region and with the Ivy's impeccable hospitality. Each and every one of the collection is carefully thought out. It takes months, sometimes years to find the perfect location and ideal venue. Brighton was always on the top of the list given its seaside chic style, yet it took time

and patience to source the perfect backdrop and finally a union between two historical establishments met in the heart of Brighton's lanes. The much loved grade II listed old post office has been lovingly refurbished into a vibrant all day brasserie, drawing in crowds since its launch in May. My mum, Claire, introduced me to The Ivy many years ago and I immediately fell in love with the glamour, elegance and sensational cuisine. For twenty years, I have remained loyal to one of my favourite, fine dining brasseries and as soon as I found out that the collection was extending to the south coast I jumped at the chance to review Brighton's Ivy in the Lanes. The aim of the collection is to encapsulate the flare of the original whilst making the collection available to a wider demographic, so I was intrigued to investigate. On a warm Thursday evening in June my mum Claire and I headed to The Ivy in the Lanes. As we stepped out of our taxi, we both immediately noted how the building appeared alive again. Having housed cafes, clothing shops and market stalls at one point, it was pleasing to see the once atmospheric post office was again ebullient and distinguished. The elegant green canopies covering the three large windows gave a small glimpse into the wonderful Ivy experience with the iconic logo placed in large bold letters for all to see.

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On entering the building you are immediately transported into the sleek and glamorous Ivy world. Two large stained glass doors provide the grandest entrance in Brighton, complete with low lighting and foliage and The Ivy's trade mark green reminding you that you are now apart of this refined dining experience. A warm welcome greeted us by the two immaculately dressed hosts, wearing well tailored cropped cream jackets - the perfect introduction to this sophisticated evening. I was impressed to see the elegance and maturity of The Ivy continuing through to the collection of restaurants. They say first impressions count and I already felt consumed by this extraordinary concept. In the main restaurant you can feast your eyes on a contemporary celebration of colour and Brighton's unique tongue in cheek charm with wall to wall brightly coloured artwork enlivening the venue and bringing it to life. This is a true sensory experience: a magical oasis hidden in the centre of Brighton. Inside feels incredibly cosy considering the high ceiling and vast 6000 sq.ft space. The mix of stylish booths for larger groups and cosy corners for intimate diners are strategically placed around the shimmering central bar, creating a sense of continuity and flow in this hive of calm activity.

This is a true sensory experience: a magical oasis hidden in the centre of Brighton. Inside feels incredibly cosy considering the high ceiling and vast 6000 sq.ft space.”

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The much loved grade II listed old post office has been lovingly refurbished into a vibrant all day brasserie, drawing in crowds since its launch in May.

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We were seated in the perfect position to soak up the incomparable decor and the first thing that I noticed was the sense of ease amongst the team, gliding across the floor and each exuding confidence and charm. The gorgeous burnt orange velvet booths complete with plump cushions offer style and comfort and go hand in hand with the crisp white linen tables. It is apparent that the whole concept has been lovingly and thoughtfully designed to offer the perfect mix of opulence and simplicity. I immediately felt relaxed and that there was no sense of urgency. This is a place to sit back, chat and simply be in the moment. Our delightful Italian waiter Lorenzo greeted us offering a description of the specials and also his recommended cocktails. I was bowled-over to find out that the staff are put through an intense two week training course which includes sampling the whole entire menu! This knowledge of the product inspires confidence and instils a passion for the company and according to Lorenzo, really built a sense of camaraderie between the team. The ample menu covers all from Eggs Florentine at dawn to Grilled Whole Lobster at dusk. There is just the right amount of surprise blended with familiar favourites. The cocktails are as refined as the venue and I could not resist starting my evening with a delightful English spritz, which I highly recommend for a crisp, light and refreshing libation. The manager recommended the Martinborough, craggy range Sauvignon Blanc for our table as we were both leaning towards white fish. This zingy wine lived up to expectations and worked perfectly with the citrus and garlic flavours.

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To start, I ordered the yellowfin tuna carpaccio with tomato, watermelon, ponzu dressing, miso Mayo and sesame. It was perfection, so much so that I have been incredibly decadent over the past few weeks and been back half a dozen times for this starter and a glass of The Ivy champagne. My mum Claire ordered the tempura prawns; crunchy fried Nobashi prawns with pickled mouli, cucumber, edamame and a matcha tea sauce. These are well balanced texture and flavours and not too heavy allowing room for the next course. I decided to order the blackened cod fillet for my main course, baked in a banana leaf with citrus-pickled fennel, grilled broccoli and chill yuzu mayonnaise. This dish was sensational with an appealing texture, great flavour and evidently cooked to perfection as the fillet fell perfectly into large chunks of succulent fish. There are certain Ivy favourites that have amassed their own following over the years such as the shepherds pie or The Ivy signature hamburger and since the Brighton launch this spring I have heard rave reviews about so many delights on the menu. However if you enjoy seafood I can promise you this was the best cod that I personally have experienced on the south coast. Given the warm summers evening my mum decided to also try the fish on the specials board and chose a beautifully presented whole oven roasted sea bream with aromatic fennel, lightly spiced. To accompany ,we ordered the baked sweet potato and tender stem broccoli as sides to share and these two were packed with flavour. We were informed by one of the team

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that chef Olsi was in charge of our evening and given the smiles and gasps of excitement, I would say that we were not the only table satisfied with our delectable cuisine. Our first two courses were equally accomplished, however the piece du resistance was by far the divine melting chocolate bombe. As this glorious chocolate ball arrived we both stopped talking to gaze in awe as our waitress slowly poured the hot salted caramel sauce across the crisp shell only to reveal a honeycomb centre with vanilla ice cream. A Willy Wonka moment that ended our delightful dining experience on a tremendous chocolaty high! As we finished our meal we moved to the central bar for a night cap and to soak up the electric colours and beautiful design. The Ivy in the Lanes has some fantastic unique touches including a private dining room that hosts 20 guests and a magical ladies loo. Yes that’s right! The ladies lavatory is fast becoming an Instagram favourite with its glorious golden floral wall coverings, circular design, velvet sofa and true Hollywood glamour fit for a starlet. It really is show stopping! The Ivy has certainly spread its magic to our South Coast shores with its Gatsby feel, eclectic mix of art and design. This is luxury, but without the prohibitive prices - distinctive and divine and definitely somewhere incredibly special for all to enjoy! Lindsay Katherine Hills www.facebook.com/theivybrighton/ 01273 082200 51a Ship Street, Brighton

We were informed by one of the team that chef Olsi was in charge of our evening and given the smiles and gasps of excitement, I would say that we were not the only table satisfied with our delectable cuisine.

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THE STONEHAM PUB & KITCHEN

ENJOY OUR HUGE BEER GARDEN

NOW ALL PINTS NOW UNDER £5!

WHAT’S ON

Every Tuesday - Gin Tuesday Any one of our finest gins with a fevertree tonic for just £5

Every Friday - Half price prosecco A bottle of prosecco for just £13!

Every Saturday - Live bands Every Saturday, we host a different live band, check our website for listings

Every Sunday - Homemade roast Enjoy a hearty Sunday roast with all your friends & family!

153 Portland Rd, Hove BN3 5QJ 0661 2 7 3 3 8 3 8 4 0

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f: the stoneham www.thestoneham.co.uk thestoneham@live.co.uk

Ethical, 12 hour brined, buttermilked, home spiced fried chicken and gourmet sides Join us for an alternative Christmas including Christmas dinner in a bun and a whole fried bird! Parties of all sizes catered for. The Bok Shop Restaurant, 3-4 East Street BN1 1HP

@thebokshop

ABSOLUTE01273 777 312

bookings@thebokshop.com

/thebokshop 67

The Old Port Cocktail and Prosecco Bar Whilst enjoying a Sunday pub crawl in West Hove several weeks ago, exploring the area we had recently moved to, my wife Sally and I noticed some changes going on at the Stoneham Pub on Portland Road. Their once underutilised and rather drab function room was being converted into an exciting new trendy adults-only cocktail and prosecco bar! Sally absolutely cannot resist cocktails and prosecco and so she was delighted! So, having opened last month, I decided it about time I took her to check out this chic, fresh modern addition to our local watering holes.

ven from the outside it is immediately clear how much work has gone into transforming the function room to make it stand out from the Stoneham Pub as a separate entity. Contemporary, bold inviting colours adorn the outside of the building with the name proudly displayed above the door. Making our way through the alfresco seating area where a couple were clearly enjoying their elegant looking drinks in the evening sunshine, Sally could not hide her excitement as we entered. The renovation of the interior is even more impressive. This once-shabby space has had a complete make-over. Every surface has been sanded down and brightened, sophisticated wooden panels and locally produced artwork adorn the walls, and quirky cushioned beer keg stalls and tables along with comfy vintage turquoise armchairs and sofas are scattered around the room. A mixture of industrial style steep pipe lighting and vintage lamps gives the bar a cosy, yet bright and airy feel. Unintrusive yet upbeat music played in the background creating a relaxed vibe. We were welcomed to take a seat at the bar by Lottie the barmaid, who told us the story of how the bar came to be, whilst whipping us up some delicious cocktails. The bar is the brainchild of two members of staff from the Stoneham; Sadie Graham and Claire Steer. The dynamic duo pitched the idea of opening a cocktail and prosecco bar to the owners, and then alongside fellow staff member Sarah Carter-Moore, went about working all hours to convert the tired function room, into a cool, new space, in just 2 months. All their hard work has paid off and their vision of bringing a bar with a modern edge to this otherwise traditional area. We started to make our way through the impressive cocktail menu with a “Gingerbread Martini” and the cocktail of the week, a ‘Salted Caramel Espresso Martini’ which were both works of art and

tasted divine! Both were served in traditional elegant glasses, but with Biscotti paste smeared round the edge of the Gingerbread Martini glass, and salted caramel drizzled round the espresso martini. Great fun to dip your straw (or your finger) in to! The Gingerbread Martini was sensational. It was decadently creamy and sweet and speckled with gingerbread crumbs and cinnamon. The Salted Caramel Espresso Martini was quite simply a work of art! Most certainly the prettiest, if not the tastiest espresso martini we have ever tried. The bitterness of the coffee and the sweetness of the caramel working together to create a taste sensation which will leave you wanting more, served with a delicious vanilla wafer to dunk. Sensational! Lottie let slip that they are working on the next cocktail of the week, a Cherry Bakewell Tart martini. Needless to say, Sally is now insisting we go back and try. The menu itself consists of a mix of classic cocktails you would expect to find in such an establishment, as well as several bespoke drinks such as “Old Port Sling” and the “Stoneham Garden,” which have been created by Claire. If nothing takes your fancy from here, as long as they have the ingredients, Lottie and the team of experienced mixologists will make anything you desire. A separate wine and fizz menu displays a select list of prosecco, wine and champagne should you desire, and if like me, you are usually more of a beer man, it is no problem to order next door in the Stoneham and bring your pint in. Although the Old Port do not have a food menu themselves as yet, they will happily serve you delicious food from Stoneham’s new and improved menu too, which has a great selection of Pizza, sharers and snacks. We had some beautifully cooked crispy calamari with a chili seafood sauce, and a bowl of fresh mixed olives to nibble on as we carried on drinking our way through the cocktail menu. Next Lottie mixed me up an “Amaretto Sour” and Sally a “Sky High”. The Amaretto

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Sour was perfectly balanced with contrasting sweet and sour notes dancing on the tongue. Served over crushed ice, it was again beautifully presented in a bowl glass and topped with cherries. The Sky High was a potent mix of Patron XO, Baileys, Amaretto and Vodka served in a similar bowl over ice. Luscious, incredibly moreish, and rather potent (apparent when Sally started to wobble on her stool). It is obvious that at the Old Port Hove, the visual presentation of the drinks holds equal standing to the taste. Each drink is beautifully displayed in signature glasses, made with care and attention and added touches create a wow factor. Lottie explained this is very important to them, and nothing pleases her more when she produces a work of art and it amazes. We were having such a lovely time we decided to have “one more for the road.” Sally was plumping for a “fantastic Mr. Fox”. This is one of their favourite concoctions combining Midori Melon, Southern Comfort, coconut rum, vodka, peach schnapps, Crème de Bananes, and fruit juices, which to her delight tasted like fruit salad sweets from our childhood. I decided to challenge Lottie to make me something sour, and off-menu. She rose to the challenge and made me a lovely frozen Margarita. We had such a memorable and unique time at Old Port Cocktail and Prosecco Bar. West Hove has been crying out for a place like this; a sophisticated bar with a laid-back feel. This is a den designed for cheeky after-work drinks, with deals such as two cocktails for £10.00 Wednesdays and Thursdays, or. for a weekend meet up with friends. Expertly crafted innovative drinks are served in a relaxed friendly environment. We will certainly be frequenting and are looking forward to sampling some of the unusual spirits they offer such as Wasabi Gin and Milk Vodka. Tony Shattell

www.oldporthove.co.uk

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TH E P E R F EC T VENU E TO SAY “I DO ”!

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Sussex countryside, Ghyll Manor Hotel is a picturesque spot to marry. An elegant 17th century country house hotel brimming with character and style, the traditional oak-beamed building gazes out over 40 acres of gorgeous private gardens, including a lake and a pretty summer house. We cater for both ceremonies and receptions - enabling you to spend all of your big day in the same delightful setting, or you can choose to just enjoy your wedding reception with us. TAILOR-MADE WEDDING PACKAGES suiting individual tastes and requirements OUTDOOR WEDDINGS AVAILABLE* in our picturesque Summer House *(May to September – weather permitting)

ACRES OF LANDSCAPED GROUNDS & GARDENS An ideal backdrop for photographs A DEDICATED WEDDING COORDINATOR from the booking stage through to completion A TRULY PERSONAL SERVICE Helping to make dreams a reality

EVERY WEDDING IS AS UNIQUE AS YOU ARE! For more information call 01293 871571 (8am – 11pm daily) enquiries: weddings@ghyllmanor.co.uk

A NEW TYPE OF DINER

We offer incredible new versions of food and drink that you might find familiar. We have sodas made in house with some help from our centrifuge machine. They have around one tenth of the sugar of regular sodas. Our cocktails are crafted with loving care using house made essences, bitters and artisanal spirits. Some of our cakes have no added sugar. Some are completely dairy free. We are really proud of our velvety, house made, organic cashew and tiger nut milk blend.

Our coffee has to be tasted to be believed. We only use the best butter, virgin coconut oil (for our many non dairy/vegan creations) and extra virgin olive oil for dressing. Our tea is brewed in clean glass, to the perfect temperature. Everything we have is completely free of gluten. That's right, everything. Even our house made sourdough, sweet bakes and our buttermilk fried chicken. Our aim is excellence as standard. We make super food for super people.

PLEASE PAY US A VISIT 99 Trafalgar Street, Brighton, BN1 4ER 01273 620 036 www.doughlover.com www.instagram.com/dough_lover_ 71

WEST BEACH BAR AND KITCHEN AT THE

i360

Hearing that the West Beach Bar and Kitchen (formerly the Belle Vue) at the i360, is boasting a brand new look, an extended 120-plus seat outdoor terrace and a fresh summer sharing menu showcasing the best locally produced ingredients, the Absolute team took some time out of our busy schedules to check it out one warm summer evening. This is what we found…

lthough it was a warm and pleasant evening, by the time we arrived some ominous looking clouds were gathering so we opted to sit inside. We were graciously greeted by our waiter Georgie and shown to our seats by a large southfacing window with a fantastic view of the west pier. We took a minute to take in and appreciate the new look and feel to the place, which by all accounts was quite drab before the refurbishment. This is no longer the case. Spacious and airy, it is decorated with contemporary pastel hues, with an eclectic mix of furniture of all shapes and sizes surrounding a central, slightly set-back bar. Beautiful eye-catching artwork adorns the walls, including a wonderful picture of the i360 which was painted by a total of three hundred and sixty local artists, and a bright-neon piece inspired by the famous West Pier starling murmerations. The huge bay windows offer a fantastic view of the surrounding area including the West Pier pillar sculpture and the promenade. Whether you choose to sit inside or out, this place is obviously great for people watching and taking in the buzzing seafront atmosphere. Cute tiny loaves of bread and generous dollops of delectable gentlemen’s relish were placed on the table while we chose our drinks. A nice select list of wines, beers, soft drinks, and cocktails to choose from made it easy to decide while we tucked in to the fishy treat. The ladies decided to share a bottle of prosecco and the gents went for pints of draught Pilsner. The cocktail menu was enticing with original creations such as the ‘BA i360 Sling’ and ‘West Beach Cooler’ catching our eyes. We were sure to try some out later in the evening. The menu had a strong focus on locally sourced produce and even had a map on the

front showing where the ingredients were from, which I thought was a nice touch. The main menu catered for a wide range of tastes and dietary requirements, with an innovative selection of small plate dishes, adventurous sounding burgers and sandwiches, and large plate sharers, as well as a selection of special dishes for the evening menu. Georgie seemed keen to show off the new summer special sharers so we selected a couple of dishes from this, a ‘seafood drift board’ from the large plates on the main menu, and their signature skin-on seasoned ‘dirty fries’ and ‘Sea Slaw’ on the side. First to arrive was the ‘Taste of our Summer Terrace Kilner’ which consisted of two jam-packed jars of pork rillettes with tangy cider chutney in one, and a beetroot humus in the other and served with a selection of warm breads. We greedily tucked in to Kilner’s. The pork, incredibly moreish with a clean fresh grounded taste, was beautifully complimented by the flavourful zesty chutney. The tangy beetroot Humus was a hit too, and quickly devoured. The rest of the dishes came out next, and it was soon apparent we might have over-ordered. Though everything looked and smelt delicious and we soon made short work of it all. The seafood drift board, served in a faux-newspaper lined wooden crate was jam-packed with a selection of crispy bread-crumbed whitebait, cod goujons, an enormous pile of thinly-sliced freshly smoked salmon, and a bowl of moules mariniere served separately with a selection of breads to soak up the sauce. The “Duck Duck Go” from the new summer menu was a hit; finely carved smoked duck breast, tangy glazed fig relish, creamy Berkswell Ewes Cheese, crunchy and peppery rocket, all sandwiched in an enormous white bloomer with the

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distinct flavours all working in harmony with each other making every mouthful an adventure. On to the sides. The fries, which came with an ‘extremely addictive’ warning were just that. They were crunchy and flavoursome with an interesting sweet curry spiced coating. The Sea-slaw was also a pleasant addition, made with seaweed giving it a salty taste which went well with the seafood. The obviously Brighton-inspired dessert menu looked incredibly tempting and well thought-out, with enticing additions such as ‘Brighton Glory Sunday’ and ‘Summer Lovin’ Fruit Terrine’. We opted to share a melting Jaffa pudding whilst enjoying a round of espresso martinis. The dessert was an absolute delight! Pouring a jug of chocolate lava on the cake and seeing it melt was a lot of fun and it cut through the tanginess of the orange to create an incredibly well-rounded and deliciously sweet dish. The espresso martinis were perfect too! I am fussy when it comes to drinking these, as I often find in places they are either made too sweet, or too sour for my taste. West Beach make them with fresh coffee to give it a light and fluffy foam, Tia Maria which is not as sweet as Kalua, and add a shot of Amaretto almond liquor to set it off with a nutty aftertaste. We all agreed they were the best we have tasted. A lovely evening was had. I cannot think of a better place in Brighton to relax with a group of friends and enjoy sharing great food and drinks in the best beach location on the seafront. Whether you are a visitor to Brighton or live locally, we thoroughly recommend giving the West Beach Bar and Kitchen a visit. Tony Shattell

Whether you choose to sit inside or out, this place is obviously great for people watching and taking in the buzzing seafront atmosphere.

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OLD PORT COCKTAIL & PROSECCO BAR

LIVE ACOUSTIC THURSDAYS 2 FOR £10 COCKTAILS FROM 5PM LIVE MUSIC FROM 8PM

153 Portland Rd, Hove BN3 5QJ f: old port hove www.oldporthove.co.uk Open Wed - Sat from 5pm

OLD PORT COCKTAIL & PROSECCO BAR

Beautiful handmade classic & origional cocktails in the heart of hove (actually)

Reserve an area for you and your friends, contact us on facebook or call The Stoneham Pub on 01273 383840

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153 Portland Rd, Hove BN3 5QJ f: old port hove www.oldporthove.co.uk 75

The Norfolk Arms HOTEL Arundel is a town fit for romance. Not romance of an everyday nature, but fully-fledged blockbuster movie fairy tale romance of epic proportions. The entire hillside cathedral town is built like an artist’s impression of ‘happily ever after’ with Arundel Castle, its fantasy fortress, standing tall and inviting at the top.

he town is breath-taking from the onset. Arundel’s gothic Cathedral and the picture-book turrets of the castle create it’s stunning silhouette, and on as you get closer, you cannot help but be charmed by the hickeldy pickeldy winding streets lined with Georgian, Victorian and Tudor properties, appearing almost like a chapter list of the town’s social history. It all began once upon a Roman time when Sussex was invaded in AD 43. According to local discoveries Arundel, which was then known as ‘Tarrant’ was used as a military outpost, with grand Roman villas built to house the families. Fast forward a good few years and the next recorded mention of the town as ‘Arundel’ is seen in the Domesday Book of 1085, when it began life as a flourishing port and market town. The castle itself has been owned and lived in by the Duke of Norfolk and his family for the past 850 years, and remains the official residence even now. Aptly named after the man himself, The Norfolk Arms Hotel sits proudly on the enchanting road that leads up to the castle and is a 34-bedroom, three-star hotel steeped in history, but with a foot firmly in the up and coming! A charming former Georgian coaching inn located opposite Arundel Castle, The Norfolk Arms Hotel prides itself on great customer service, recognised by the recent Guest Review Award by popular online hotel booking website, Booking.com and a 2018 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor, based on the consistently great reviews

earned on the world’s most popular review website. The hotel has successfully achieved the four out of five average rating required with more than 71% of users classing their hotel experience as excellent or very good in the process. Currently, the Norfolk Arms Hotel is listed third best hotel in Arundel, and 8th best value of 560 places to stay in West Sussex, which is a massive improvement to where the hotel ranked 12 months ago. With the hotel clearly on the up and up, who is pioneering this change? Mark Monkton has recently been appointed General Manager. With 20 years’ experience in the hotel and restaurant industry, Mark brings a wealth of knowledge to the role having worked with Wildwood, Harris + Hoole, The Shoreline Hotel and most recently The Ship Inn, Itchenor. In his new role, he is responsible for the 37 bedrooms at the hotel, along with two function rooms, the Castle Restaurant and the recently launched Norfolk Tap, a craft beer bar and coffee shop. On his appointment, Mark said: “It’s a great pleasure to be taking this role at such a historic and iconic establishment and I look forward to enhancing its great tradition. People in Arundel are very proud of the town and rightly so and I want the Norfolk Arms to epitomise that. I’ve lived in and around Arundel for many years so I know first-hand how people perceive the hotel and where we can improve. I’m looking forward to putting the Norfolk Arms back on the map in Arundel.” Having started his working life in a pub,

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the majority of Mark’s career has been in hotels and restaurants with a strong food and beverage focus. Following the recent opening of the Norfolk Tap, serving the beers and ales from Arundel Brewery along with Teas and Coffees from Arundel-based Edgcumbes, Mark’s appointment also coincides with the relaunch of the Castle Restaurant situated within the hotel. A complete rebrand has taken place, with a new menu now available, and Absolute were lucky enough to be invited to see (and taste!) the transformations for ourselves. Welcoming both residents and visitors alike, The Norfolk Tap is pioneering the growing trend of craft beer drinkers within the UK in Arundel. The atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming and lively and the selection of craft beers, both local and from further afield is both extensive and intriguing. Stunned by the sheer wealth of options, the knowledgable team let us taste test a selection, whilst giving us the lowdown on the wherefores and whys of each. It is so refreshing to talk to barmen who are clearly experts in their field, taking pride in their work and their products. The Norfolk Tap features a six-tap wall, a superb list of wines by the glass (including Chablis – which seems to be increasingly rare!), plus a digitally-displayed menu, a top-ofthe-range coffee machine and a selection of art from the local Zimmer Stewart Gallery. Although we opted for a pint of the trendy Beavertown’s Gamma Ray and a Chablis, you couldn’t help but be impressed by the offerings from Arundel Brewery.

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The Norfolk Arms HOTEL

Arundel Brewery was started in 1992 and restarted a tradition of brewing in and around Arundel which has a brewing history going back hundreds of years to when Arundel was a major trading port. The brewery now brews both traditional and modern craft beers which are as popular now as they were back in the day. On the traditional side Sussex Gold is a best seller, a light golden ale and on the modern side, Uptown is an IPA which is currently the highest rated beer in Sussex Owned by the Walker family since 2015, the focus is on using local ingredients as much possible to ensure the freshest, tastiest beers are always available at the best outlets in the area such as the Norfolk Tap. Although we only stopped by for a tipple, we were made aware that a full bar menu is available and the ‘The Tap’ is also playing host to a regular quiz night, plus there are plans afoot which will see the launch of many a special event including retro movie and gaming nights. Our next stop was across the courtyard to the historic Castle Restaurant. Once again open to hotel guests and local diners, the hotel’s main restaurant has been completely relaunched and now boasts a fresh new look and an all new menu. Mark explained that following the success of the bar’s new opening, which has seen local residents head back in as well as attracting craft beer drinkers from further afield, he now hopes the relaunch will have a similar effect.

“ The hotel’s main

restaurant has been completely relaunched and now boasts a fresh new look and an all new menu."

“Obviously being a hotel, accommodation is a focus for us, but I want to bring a sense of community to the Norfolk Arms and that really needs to come in our food and beverage offering. There’s many great restaurants in the town and therefore the competition is high, but we want to be competing with these and that starts with this rebrand. The Castle Restaurant offers locally-sourced produce and serves good, traditional English food that caters for the local people of Arundel. Our head chef, Ben Miller, has worked hard on the new menu which is far more extensive, and we’re sure it will be a hit with diners from both within the hotel and the local community.” Well, it was most certainly a hit with us. The décor gives a breathtaking sense of occasion, with impressive high ceilings, intricate coving detail, panelled pale hue walls, adding a calmness to the setting and fine chandeliers hang proudly. Diners are quite literally surrounded by history, with stories Arundel’s past documented on the walls. In the evenings, this is clearly a destination for refined celebrations and romantic date nights, but on the flip side, the daytime sees the space become light, fresh and airy, welcoming those after a light bite and an elegant but casual vibe. The menu is modern yet traditional and features starters such as Breaded Sussex brie, served with roasted garlic and rosemary

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focaccia, Bacon jam and sage and classic mains such as Roasted rump of lamb and 18 oz Ribeye steak. The dishes are expertly and elegantly crafted, using local products wherever possible and the freshest of ingredients. The portions are generous but not overwhelming, but what really is apparent is that the chef allows the ingredients to really do the talking. The dishes aren’t overly fussy and this approach keeps these dishes singing uninterrupted with the bold flavours of the high quality meats and produce used. The service is exceptional, with the waiting staff clearly proud of their transformed new destination venue and menu. Time has been taken to ensure all the team are well versed on the dishes they are serving, allowing them to confidently advise their guests where appropriate. Both ourselves and the diners around us were all given time to make our choices and dine in an unhurried manner, allowing us to fully relax and take in both the flavours and the atmosphere of this historic setting. With our every whim catered for, our evening was a truly special one in this enchanting and exciting venue. We look forward to seeing the Norfolk Arms team continue to allow their beloved hotel to march proudly into the future and with such passion evident in their approach, it’s without a doubt they will do so triumphantly.

“

Stunned by the sheer wealth of options, the knowledgable team let us taste test a selection, whilst giving us the lowdown on the wherefores and whys of each."

For more information please visit www.norfolkarmsarundel.com

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THE

Bok SHOP

he humble chicken burger (often an afterthought on a burger restaurant menu and the second class citizen to its meaty counterpart) is well and truly brought to the forefront of Brighton’s now well established independent friedchicken focussed eatery. Having only heard good things and being a well-documented gourmet burger enthusiast, I was more than excited to be invited to try them out. In a prime location just off the seafront on Brighton’s bustling East Street, The Bok Shop exudes a relaxed and welcoming vibe. This is a cool, light and airy establishment, decorated minimisticly with black and white brick walls, naked LED bulbs hanging from the ceiling, and littered with picnic benches, as well as some outdoor seating. We chose our spot next to the huge bay windows, perfect for people watching and took in our surroundings. We were salivating over the quite wonderful smells emanating from the kitchen window, while the chef, in full view of the diners, was busily going about his craft. Taking a quick detour downstairs to use the bathroom, I came across the downstairs dining area, which in contrast to the main room had more of a rustic feel. There are bare wood walls and ceiling, decorated with fairy lights and funky artwork, with an impressive, yet slightly out of place library of classic VHS horror films on display. I made a mental note to ask about that, but then forgot! Upon taking our seat again, Hannah, our incredibly friendly and helpful waitress was more than happy to go through the menu, bringing our attention to the lunchtime deal (£9.50 for any burger, side and soft drink), and offering to answer any questions we may have. The menu is fairly straightforward

however it features a selection of classic and bespoke imaginative chicken burgers, which could all be made vegetarian or vegan with spice coated faux chicken. Chicken pieces and wings with various sauces, including vegan nuggets, and a comprehensive list of classic tempting sides and homemade dips all combine to make this one delicious menu.. The comprehensive drinks menu displayed a great selection of craft beers, Bok Shop own red/white/rose wine, fizz, spirits and soft drinks, as well as crooked alcoholic soda. In the interest of journalism I massively over-ordered so I could sample as much of the menu as possible. I was immediately drawn to “The Bossman” burger, described as a “beast” on the menu, with Bok barbecue sauce, lettuce cucumber, thigh fillet, cheese, hash brown and topped with even more barbeque sauce. I coupled it with some fried pickles, and rounded off my order with six spicy “Bokadoosh Wings.” My wife and dining companion Sally shook her head and sighed at my obvious greed, and prudently ordered two chicken pieces, with homemade mash and chicken gravy. Despite it being a particularly busy lunchtime, it did not take long for our food to arrive. Assuming the wings were to share, they were placed in the middle of the table. When I explained they were all for me Hannah wished me luck, and then brought out the rest. My burger was simply huge and I was relieved I had not opted to “double up” on the thigh fillet, as I struggled to take the first bite with sauce and bits of hash brown dripping down my chin! I am happy to say the Bossman Burger is as delicious as it is big. The thigh fillet is so juicy, moist and flavoursome, with the twangy

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homemade barbecue sauce really standing out and the crunchy hash brown and oozing cheese adding an incomparable dose of pure satisfaction in every bite. The Bokodoosh wings were equally as juicy and coated in a spicy rich crunchy batter which had a lovely kick. They come drizzled in hot Korean Gochujang sauce to give them an extra punch, though by no means overpowering the delicious taste of the chicken. The fried pickles were some of the best I have had; juicy fat twangy sticks with a signature crispy, buttery batter – perfect for dipping in any one of the Bok Shop homemade dips. I refrained from adding the sauce however, concluding none was needed to enjoy these magnificent creations, though occasionally mopping up some leftover from the wings. My wife reluctantly allowed me to sample some of her food too! I was straight in there. Tearing off some of her perfectly cooked tender chicken breast and dunking it in the gloriously creamy mash and delightful gravy. Oh wow, this is what fried-chicken dreams are made of. Tasting the Bok Shop batter in all its glory, without the salads buns and sauces was just heavenly and I could not resist going in again to suck the bones dry the moment Sally had finished eating. As we washed it all down with a couple of crooked alco-sodas I stared at the mound of bones hoping to find one last morsel to enjoy, even though my hunger was more than satisfied. In fact I have to admit I felt ever so slightly uncomfortably full, and loving it! The Bok shop certainly lived up to the hype and I will be dragging my poor wife back soon to witness me massively over-order and devour more delicious succulent chicken very soon.

“ I am happy to say the Bossman

Burger is as delicious as it is big. The thigh fillet is so juicy, moist and flavoursome, with the twangy homemade barbecue sauce really standing out."

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ISABELL KRISTENSEN COUTURE L O N D O N

M O N A C O

Over the past two decades, the Couture house founded by designer and creative director Isabell Kristensen has become synonymous with the glamorous international world of high fashion. In this time Isabell and her designs have come to epitomise the elegance and glamour required for the world’s most exclusive and fabulous occasions, whether it be on the green grass at Royal Ascot’s Royal Enclosure or on stage at the Oscars, Isabell’s creations are a favourite. During the rich & diverse history of the brand, House of Kristensen has been fortunate & grateful to have dressed some of the world’s most beautiful and talented women. Including Nicole Kidman, Dame Shirley Bassey, Kate Winslet, Paris Hilton, Joely Richardson, Shania Twain, and Katy Perry to name a few. Absolute's style editor Kasia talks to Isabell.

Can you tell us how your journey into fashion began and develop? What is your background? From a young age I worked as a model, I loved fashion but always knew my heart lay in design. I spent many years exploring fashion in all its forms and the works of great designers, I recall being drawn by the works of Holger Blom, a great Danish designer of the 1930’s & 1940’s and soon discovered the fine works of Eric Mortensen and his creations at Balmain as one of the only Danish designers to head up a French Couture Maison. Denmark was usually less formal and Couture less common so very different to France or Italy, and vastly different in terms of style to the UK. It was really the explosion of colour, exquisite detailing and ambitious design in Couture that I realised I craved and managed to find abroad. Roberto Capucci was one of my early favourites, I had never seen such pieces before, the colours, the shapes, the structure, so powerful and incredibly beautiful. Travel was a strong source of inspiration for me, I worked in Italy and travelled in the south of France. I loved both countries so much I felt I would live between the two, but the discovery of two key British fashion figures made it clear where I most wished to start my journey and build my own brand. First was Charles Worth – arguably the godfather of Haute couture – I recall my favourite piece he created was an absolutely stunning dress inspired by the intricate and beautiful iron works of Parisian balconies, which I found fascinating as he had spotted beauty in something so common and yet translated it perfectly into a stunning Couture gown.

Second was Mary Quant, obviously I wanted to live and work in the same area where the Mini-skirt was invented! I loved that the UK had this unique blend of all that was wonderful about heritage and fine traditional tailoring whilst simultaneously having a fantastically hip and avant-garde scene for emerging designers. The UK was perfect to me and I headed straight for London. As soon as I had the chance, I entered into a fashion design competition in London, which I was fortunate enough to win and was sponsored to take part in the ‘Clothes Show Live’, the first fashion exhibition available to the public. I took so many orders during the exhibition I could not believe how positive peoples response was, I began building my own couture house in London, first from my basement and later from Beauchamp Place where we have been for over 26 years! Your couture creations are seen on movie sets. You visit the Cannes Film Festival. Who are your typical clients? Many of our existing clients are local to the Riviera and Monaco where we have another boutique, so they are regular visitors to Cannes, particularly during the festival, however most new business tends to come from much of the International talent who have come from the world over to make their first Red Carpet appearance. For example, we had such a beautiful client from Kazakhstan who was in so many films and had several ‘montées des marches’ this year and needed a dozen fabulous looks! It is a sort of really fun competition in a way, one fabulous look shot at Cannes could go viral and be seen the across the globe by millions so it is important. Visibility is good business.

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How do style and fashion differ in London and mainland Europe? In both fashion and style there has existed a special difference here since my first days in the industry, this difference is what drew me to the UK. Though whilst there are many differences in the Fashions of the continental countries and the UK the gap has narrowed slightly in recent years as much of the ready to wear market is more globalised. Thus style is where we really have something still so beautifully unique, which I often find is both encouraged and preserved through our great British eccentrics. This unique style is achieved through the elegant pairing of old and new, the old is represented through a heritage of a fine sense of dressing easily demonstrable through fabulous fashion icons such George “Beau” Brummel – who is largely responsible for dress codes such as those at Royal Ascot. The new can be seen in the innovative style forms that emerge from the UK, consider street style and styles such as Punk, Vivienne Westwood’s gorgeous use of tartan and tweed was genius, she used these traditional materials in untraditional ways exemplifying eccentric British style the likes of which is not found elsewhere.

Who is your fashion inspiration and why? Grace Kelly. Without a doubt, a true fashion icon, so effortlessly elegant. She achieved so much, a fantastic international career, a fantastic role model but most importantly a fantastic Mother. Remarkable women of her stature are a great source of inspiration and admiration. In my collection ‘Les beautés de la mediterranee' launched during the Superyacht Show in Monaco on the roof terrace of Lord Foster’s brilliantly designed new Yacht club I could not help but consider the exquisite Princesse Grace Rose garden as one of the Cote d’Azur’s most notable, beautiful, special places and a source of inspiration. The dresses inspired by the Princesse Grace Rose garden, were made up of dozens of carefully sewn organza roses, each with a delicately embellished crystal rose bud. What look suits any woman? This rather goes against my nature! I believe in individuality, I hate when people wear the same things! Our focus is always on how one can self-express so we tend to concentrate on each women’s particular needs and desires. With the horse racing season upon us, what should one wear to a racing event? Is a fascinator necessary? This depends as to the racecourse & enclosure one finds oneself in, for example the Queen Anne enclosure at Royal Ascot only requires a fascinator whereas the Royal Enclosure requires a minimum of four inch base to cover the crown of the skull, thus a proper hat. In addition modest necklines are required and skirt length no shorter than an inch above the knee, same for shoulder strap width. However rather excitingly rules have changed and trouser suits are now permitted so long as they are matching in material and colour, most fun though is the permission granted in 2017 for jumpsuits! I love a good jumpsuit! What are your favourite shoe designers and brands? Equally, for jewellery and hats? I cannot do without a pair of Louboutin’s! Regardless of how painful some women find them, I do everything in heels so I suppose my feet are numb! As to hats Philip Treacy’s work still catches my eye but I also love a classic John Boyd especially for the races! For jewellery no one does diamonds quite like Boodles, a lovely British family business with barrels of talent in fine design.

“ I believe in

individuality... Our focus is always on how one can self-express."

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Isabell Kristensen MONACO | LONDON | & BEYOND 33 Beauchamp Place Knightsbridge SW3 1NU www. isabellkristensen.com

London Lifestyle London bumps, babies and kids. Being a parent is a wonderful and magical experience. It’s literally one of the best things in the world, and whilst at times a little exhausting, it’s a delightful rollercoaster, where you simply enjoy every precious second and just hold on for the ride. London is packed with perfect family-friendly activities, shows, travel and dining to try over the glorious summer months. It’s the ideal place to discover new destinations to keep your children entertained

and hopefully tire them out, and around the capital there are a whole host of lovely baby classes where

you can spend precious moments with your tiny ones. What’s more, for brand-new parents or parentsto-be there are great events and classes to join around the city and across the UK this summer.

London for new parents and tiny babies. The Baby Show in Olympia is one of the UK’s best annual parenting and pregnancy events. It’s a great way to try out antenatal and post-natal baby classes, road test the best buggies and car seats, attend talks from some of the UKs best baby and parenting experts, and get great discounts on lots of big brand baby equipment and baby clothes. The Baby Show runs from 19th to 21st October 2018. Tickets are £14.70 plus booking fee, and children 14 years and under go free. www.thebabyshow.co.uk/ olympia Bach to Baby is a brilliant and critically

acclaimed series of classical musical concerts for babies and toddlers to enjoy with their parents. Our first wonderful visit to a Bach to Baby session was in a beautiful old church in Bermondsey Street at Christmas time, showcasing wonderful classical pieces from Bach, Beethoven and Brahms, as well as favourite classic Christmas carols performed by a talented pianist and flute duo. Over the spring and summer months we have attended a series of wonderful classical sessions in a variety of beautiful venues in South London and been entertained by an array of wonderfully talented and classically trained musicians playing a varied selection of classical instruments. Each concert is slightly different, themed and seasonal, and

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brilliantly run and organised by a Bach to Baby on site director, and each concert is held in some of the most inspiring venues in and around London, as well as across the UK. There are even hugely popular annual concerts arranged in Buckingham Palace, however, these tickets are like gold dust and get booked up fast so keep an eye on the Bach to Baby website for the release dates. Tickets cost around £10-£15 depending on location and availability and there are bundle packages available, so if you purchase early bird tickets or groups of tickets you can save money. Bach to Baby also sell gift cards, and one of these would make a perfectly wonderful gift for parentsto-be, new parents and grandparents. www.bachtobaby.com

Hartbeeps is a wonderful series of interactive, stimulating and engaging musical classes for tiny babies and toddlers. These nationwide magical classes help develop your child’s senses with lights, music and toys, and provide a wonderful atmosphere where you can meet other parents. There are three types of classes for tiny new born babies, babies that are crawling, and then toddler and infant classes, and Hartbeeps also host baby and pre-school birthday parties. Classes are booked per term and work out around £7 per 45-minute class, drop-in classes are £9, and the first trial class is just £4. www.hartbeeps.com Baby Sensory offers a magical series of classes from birth to 13 months to encourage development, learning and fun. These classes have been designed to stimulate, educate and give precious bonding moments for babies and parents in play and exploration. Each session gives babies lots to see, hear and feel, and baby sign language is also used and encouraged. Classes are booked in terms and each weekly hour-long session offers a different theme with new sensory items and different music, textures, colours, sounds, relaxing light shows and new toys to discover. Parenting workshops are also available for support and help offering practical parenting solutions for the early months. www.babysensory.com

In the Night Garden Live has been touring this year since 24th May and has performances planned across the UK up until 19th August. The wonderful inflatable show dome venue will delight and entertain babies and toddlers everywhere, and tickets are on sale from around £17.50. Don’t forget to book in to meet the famous characters, Igglepiggle and Upsy Daisy for after the show photos and cuddles. www.nightgardenlive.com

London for kids

Westfield is home to Kidzania, an indoor city run by kids. Yes, this really is as bonkers as it sounds. Open daily, this indoor city is designed for children between 4-14 years old, where they can explore and play in different activities including a doctor, dentist, firefighter, actor and dancer, with each activity ranging from 5 minutes to 50 minutes. Kids get their own currency to pay for things during their four-hour visit. All children must be accompanied by an adult, and there is also an area devoted to smaller children from 1-3 years. Tickets can be purchased online, and prices for one child and one adult are from approximately £34 depending on date and ticket availability. www.kidzania.co.uk

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Trampolining Parks have recently become big business with enormous trampoline parks opening everywhere. Trampolining, back in my day, way way back in the late 80s and early 90s was done on a rainy Saturday afternoon, inside a council leisure centre with maybe two or three separate trampolines (at a push), surrounded by a few tatty and well used crash mats. But things have certainly come a long way in the evolution of trampolining, not to mention health and safety, and it is now an immersive, safer and more exciting experience. Oxygen Free Jumping in Croydon is just a short train journey from Brighton or a car journey up the M23. This park has masses of trampolines, games and activities with sessions costing from £12.60. The park runs toddler sessions for the under 5s from £6, and autism friendly sessions from £8.50. This park also hosts children’s birthday parties where your child and their friends can have an hour of fun on the trampolines followed by food and drinks in their very own party room. www.oxygenfreejumping.co.uk

London Lifestyle

The Gruffalos Child Live: UK Summer Tour is the stage adaptation of the much-loved children’s book which has been running since May and continues to tour the UK through to September. Join the Gruffalos Child on her adventures through the deep dark wood in this magical musical. The show running time is 55 minutes and tickets are from £13.50. www.gruffalo.com

The infamous Legoland in Windsor is a just a short train journey away from London, packed with attractions, rides, live shows and building workshops, perfect for families with children aged between 2-12 years. The park is spread across 150 acres and open daily with single day tickets starting from £32 per person. The park resort also has two hotels, The Legoland Castle Hotel and the Legoland Resort Hotel which are famed for their popular themed bedrooms. Park packages are available which include a night’s stay and park entrance tickets. Other offers are available when you stay on the resort including, early entry to the theme park attractions, access to the themed pool, offers for a 2nd night free stay, and breakfast is also included along with evening entertainment. www.legoland.co.uk The Postal Museum in the heart of London gives a superb insight into the history of the UKs postal system, runs lots of workshops for children aged 0-8 years, with an underground ride and a dedicated play space. Tickets are from £10.45 for children, £17.05 for adults and concessions from £15.40. You will find the fabulous Postal Museum at 15-20 Phoenix Place, WC1X 0DA. www.postalmuseum.org/visit/for-families/ Soft-play and ball-pits seem to be going through something of a revolution and are now as popular as ever. I was first introduced to soft-play and the legendary ball pits back in the 80s at a friend’s birthday party, at a soft-play centre tucked away in a corner of Crystal Palace, and I thought it was the best place I had ever been to. Now sadly the soft-play centre of my youth is long gone only to be replaced by flats, but like most things, the soft-play has left its humble beginnings and evolved to become even bigger and better.

Gambado Chelsea is a fantastic children’s softplay and indoor party centre in West London, a rainbow coloured haven jam packed with soft-play areas and ball-pits galore. Babies under 1 year are free, tickets for children 1-2 years are from £8.50, tickets for 2-3 years cost from £10.50, adults from just £2.95, and annual passes are available from £12.50 per month. www.gambado.com

Ok so stay with me while I go off at a teeny tiny tangent, but while we are on the subject about ballpits, I simply must mention London’s Adults-only ball-pit in Shoreditch called Ballie Ballerson. With over 1 million balls, retro sweets and cocktail bar, yes this really is as truly wonderful as it sounds, just make sure to book a baby sitter. www.ballieballerson.com.

Currently, the restaurant chain Giraffe, is offering kids to eat free with any full priced main meal at the weekends and school holidays.

Travelling to London with your precious cargo in tow. I know from experience that travelling around central London with your child, their pushchair, and a bulging changing bag, with ones’ sanity still intact, can be a somewhat sweaty task. When you push a buggy you suddenly become acutely aware of every bump in the pavement, every restaurant without adequate and easy to reach changing facilities, every shop and train station with a broken lift, and with that, the subsequent kindness from strangers that offer to help you up and down the stairs as you precariously carry the buggy, child and a plethora of shopping bags. Then of course there’s the new knowledge of the precise location of every ‘parent and child’ parking space for a 10-mile radius. Child-free travellers, shoppers and commuters don’t realise how fast, efficient and relaxed their journey is without a stroller, baby-carrier and a screaming toddler. Family travel cards are a fantastic way to save money on great days out in and around London. National Rail is currently offering a Family and Friends Railcard for £30 which gives you 1/3 off adult fairs and 60% off child fares, for travel of up to four adults and four children on any Standard, Anytime, off-Peak and Advanced fares. The Trainline also offers a similar Family travel card which includes special offers to attractions in various UK cities.

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Food is essential for anyone travelling and for those with kids it makes up a big part of any day out in terms of time and money. Make sure you know where kids can eat free in London to save the pennies. Currently, the restaurant chain Giraffe, is offering kids to eat free with any full priced main meal at the weekends and school holidays. London has plenty of museums to please the whole family, and the British Museum is one of my favourites. The restaurant in the British Museum offers plenty of reasonably priced child-friendly foods, and there are also family friendly dining areas where you can bring your own picnics. Buggy’s and pushchairs can be left free of charge in the cloakroom, and there are four baby change areas, two feeding rooms and toilets on every floor. London Bridge has been revolutionised and is now full of shiny new, working, clean lifts to get you to all the platforms – hallelujah! Bond Street has also had a small face-lift meaning there are more entrances, therefore less congestion and more lifts, so making it much quicker for you to make a mad dash to the Selfridges roof top bar for a well-deserved glass of champagne to celebrate that you completed the journey to central London in one piece and with your children still in tow. By the way, Selfridges has an abundance of friendly staff on hand to point you in the right direction of everything, a huge children’s toy department, a great kids clothing department stocked with all the best children’s fashion designers, spacious toilets and baby change facilities, a lovely range of cafes and restaurants with high-chairs, all of which makes shopping with the kids so much easier. This is especially important if the thought of traipsing up and down Oxford Street for your essentials fills you with dread. When you have kids, you realise what an absolute pleasure it is to shop in department stores that literally have everything you need under one roof. I have said it before and I shall say it again… thank goodness for Selfridges, this wonderful department store, long may you live. Charlie McBrien

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Ibiza Journey From Ego to Eco

biza has been well documented. It's been the number one destination for clubbers, partygoers and serious music lovers for decades. It's easy to overlook the history and culture soaked into the fabric of the island's buildings and beaches.

As close as 40 or so years ago, Ibiza was a true escapist paradise. Wild, natural unspoilt and full of special magic. Before the 70s, hippies settled on the island that had already enjoyed decades of writers, painters, bohemians and other artists working and enjoying life on Eivissa. Hollywood stars came to escape and search for privacy, including Errol Flynn and Laurence Olivier. One may wonder how this Mediterranean island eventually became such an important music Mecca? Rewind to the hedonistic 60s. The 'flower power' revolution and 'Summer of Love' saw travelling hippies descend on the Balearic island as well as a plethora of rock stars. Attracted by the friendly, open-minded, easy, laid-back vibe, unspoilt beauty and the sun which shines for 60% of the year, the island became the place for those 'in the know'. Some claim the island lies in the middle of an energised 'ley line', but that's a different story.

cater for this massive tourist industry. The word and reputation of these 'super clubs' quickly spread attracting the fashionable, rich and famous to experience the magic of Ibiza's fantastic nightlife.

Changes loom, however, that could see the face of tourism change. Increasing prices and government regulations mounting will all lead to shifts in the dynamic of the island. It's no secret that true party clubbers are now venturing to such alternative destinations as Malta and Croatia. The legendary but now closed super club Space forever most definitely represented the old days of freewheeling' clubbing. The open roof, jets flying over to a screaming dancefloor, in parallel to a relaxed yet hedonistic vibe are scribed into history. As we said goodbye to such a symbolic venue, what will the future hold? The new regime will be a higher priced, VIP affair. But then doesn't this reflect the new Ibiza? Time will tell. Where does it go from here?

The wild spirit of Ibiza ever continues. The parties may be smaller than the superclub, but they are every bit as hedonistic as the spirit of the 'wild days'.

Enter the 70s. The tourist boom began with cheaper travel and newly built accommodation. To meet the new money being spent, discos made their appearance. These define the history of recent times. Pacha quickly became the mecca of Ibiza nightlife when it opened in 1973. The end of the 70s brought Wham! to shoot 'Club Tropicana' This ushered in a new generation of young British holidaymakers. To cater for all types of European taste, the soundtrack was wide and eclectic. The Balearic musical spirit was born. This wasn't missed a years later by visiting UK Djs Danny Rampling, Paul Oakenfold, Johnny Walker and Nicky Holloway who promptly took the attitude back to London. The early 90s saw this osmosis all come together. As European holidaymakers came en masse, large clubs such as Amnesia and Ku Club easily filled to

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Ibiza Journey

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The open roof, jets flying over to a screaming dancefloor, in parallel to a relaxed yet hedonistic vibe are scribed into history.”

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Ibiza is a safe and accepting place. Anyone, no matter their age can come and enjoy. Party people - young and old arrive in droves over the summer and are swept up in the party culture. The beaches are plentiful and cater for all. Some are quiet, some a constant daytime party soundtracking the day, even nudists have their open places. Of course, the beaches wouldn't be an experience without the beach restaurant.

Today, the big word on the island is ‘Eco,’ with environmental concerns shaping and pathing the way into the future. On an island of such excess, everyone from club owners to hoteliers, shopkeepers, DJs and villa owners are looking at ways of adjusting their offering to allow for a more sustainable future. There is almost a state of urgency about it all, with innovative answers being sought to protect Mother Nature, the most important lady of the White Isle. We have already witnessed a push for greener public transport, improvements on waste management, especially one-time-use plastics and an all important battle against oil explorations continues as ever. With Ibiza’s usual tourist spots bursting at the seams, businesses have looked to set up off the beaten track, and so began the rise of Agrotourism. If we travelled back a decade, you would be pushed to find an agroturismos; an Italian word that refers to a working farm that rents out some of its rooms. Today, Ibiza has become world renowned for its huge influx of rustic yet luxurious traditional accommodation, where guests can stay in field and woodland settings and feast upon local produce, safe in the knowledge their green credentials are sustained.

It is often the case that off the beaten track means remote, however with Ibiza being such a small island at 20km by 50km, the path less trodden is only ever a hop, skip and perhaps a taxi ride away from the infamous clubs, restaurants and beaches. The ultimate pull is that visitors to the new rustic establishments get the perfect blend of nature, peace, hedonism and wild antics that are synonymous with Ibiza.

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The ultimate pull is that visitors to the new rustic establishments get the perfect blend of nature, peace, hedonism and wild antics that are synonymous with Ibiza.” ABSOLUTE

Ibiza is now a year round destination, with the tourist season expanding to welcome visitors much earlier in the year and holding on to them way past the time the sun sets on the average holiday season. It’s predicted by business owners that March and October will become the new must-visit dates, with tourists lured over by reduced prices, less crowding and yet a perfect average forecast of 24-27C. Ibiza is ever-evolving and continues to prove a heavy weight in attracting the crowds year upon year. So too are the crowds themselves. However, what hasn’t changed is Ibiza’s most famous concoction of magnetic traits that promise her visitors hypnotic sunsets, beach scenes, crystal clear waters, and of course, endless parties.

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Polo C L U B

Ibiza is well known as a glamorous travel destination for people and celebrities from all over the world. However, it’s not just the beaches, the bars, the restaurants and the clubs that are attracting the masses. IBIZA POLO CLUB is the meeting point of all international polo players.

he polo club in Ibiza was founded 7 years ago and it is now one of the most vibrant, lively and popular polo clubs in Europe. For several years now, Ibiza has gained a shining reputation amongst polo players and polo lovers. Ibiza and polo are without any doubt the perfect combination of sport and an elegant lifestyle. The island gives the opportunity to play polo almost all year round and offers the visitor so much more than polo, pristine beaches, nature, ocean sports, amazing food and wine and the best music and parties on the planet.

What makes the IBIZA POLO CLUB so special? For starters, it is the only facility to play polo on the Balearic island. Even more unique is the fact that it is the place where all polo players of all levels are welcome and they have that home feeling when they are visiting the club. For beginners, the Club is ideal to start polo in a relaxed, fun, and comfortable way. Children, teenagers and adults are introduced to the sport with the care and guidance of the highly professional teachers. For the more experienced player, the Club allows chukkas to be played in a friendly atmosphere or players can participate in one of the regular tournaments. Finally, for professionals, Ibiza is the ideal spot to take a break and release the tension of the European tournaments while still keeping fit and fine tuned. While in Ibiza, players can enjoy a relaxed game and then wind down at a beach bar afterwards. This is why IBIZA POLO CLUB attracts some of the best players in the world. It’s a magical place; a place where tournaments are held in the club almost every week during the summer season, and these tournaments were created especially for the fans, passionately in love with polo.

In the heart of Ibiza you will find IBIZA POLO CLUB, which is the only Royal Spanish Federation’s delegate in the Balearics and the first polo club in the region where you can play the sport of kings. The club opened in 2011 and today it is one of the most unique places in the world to play. It is situated in the heart of Ibiza, just 15 minutes from the Old Town, Marina and Port in San Lorenzo which belongs to the town hall of San Joan de Labritja. The atmosphere on this part of the island is amazing. You are surrounded by nature with it’s famous Ibizan almond, orange and lemon trees orchards, the main factor that attracted so many great restaurants and boutique hotels to establish in this part of the island.

From the very beginning, Gabriel Iglesias the founder and owner of the club has been the driving force behind polo in Ibiza. In July 2010, when the 1st Ibiza Beach Polo Cup was launched, he brought together the highest handicap players from all over the world. In the following years, the world’s best player, Adolfo Cambiaso, visited twice, and he also inaugurated the outdoor arena of the IBIZA POLO CLUB while participating in the 3rd Ibiza Beach Polo Cup.

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Even more unique is the fact that it is the place where all polo players of all levels are welcome and they have that home feeling when they are visiting the club.”

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The Ibiza Polo Club is famous for its hospitality parties – and what is Ibiza without parties? Gabriel and his beautiful wife, Eva arrange fun to the fullest and always find new places: beautiful restaurants, rooftop parties by the sea, the famous Argentinian asados (barbeque). The guests and polo friends of the club are warmly welcomed to enjoy the games sitting on couches in the shade of the bar. Watching a polo game as the summer sun is preparing to set down in Ibiza is one of the most exciting views that you can experience. The entire experience can be perfectly described in only a few words: endless fun, laughter and friendship. Plus you might also bump into some celebrities like Gypsy Kings, Paris Hilton, Bjorn Borg, Virginia Da Cunha. Throughout the years the tournaments have been attended by some of the top personalities in polo, including illustrious names such as the successive presidents of the Royal Spanish Federation of Polo, Nicolás Álvarez and Jaime Espinosa de los Monteros, as well as a selection of famous players such as Nick Roldan, Adolfo Cambiaso, Alejandro Novillo Estrada and Andrea Vianini.

by two ladies and two men. In recent years the Ladies Polo Cup has become very popular, with players from Singapore, China, England, Germany, France, Andorra, Argentina, Sweden, Peru, Rusia participating. Riding a horse is an excellent sport for women because muscles get toned fast. Polo requires two very feminine qualities which are agility and precision, so women are without a doubt instinctive polo players. The IBIZA POLO CLUB gives special attention to women who are interested in this sport. Therefore, they are all welcome, aspiring or professional, to visit the club, join the polo school and participate in tournaments. Let us also not forget about the famous Ibiza Beach Polo Cup that occurs every year in August, with the 9th year this summer. This is one of the most highly anticipated polo tournaments. Every year more than 8 teams compete in the sand arena and fight for the the cup that just few years ago was won by Adolfo Cambiaso.

One of the most loved polo tournaments in Ibiza is the Father and Son Polo Cup. This year will be the third edition. This competition is the perfect opportunity to show that polo is a family activity where tradition is deeply rooted as if the passion for this sport was passes on genetically. At the same time, it is worth pointing out that every year the club organises two dedicated Ladies Polo Cups and one Mixed Polo Cup where every team is formed

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This is without doubt quite a young polo club. Although it doesn’t have a long tradition behind it, it does have an amazing amount of energy and willingness to stand out and to offer amazing experiences for its members and visitors. Over the last three seasons the club was very active with a great tournaments agenda, with more than 12 tournaments every year. Not only does the club has offer a great opportunity to the polo players from all over the world to enjoy this field and the great Ibiza atmosphere but also the Ibiza Polo Club Polo Team has traveled the world and connected the Ibiza Polo Club with other major polo clubs from Mexico, Thailand, Dubai, USA, Bangkok, Monte Carlo. The Club has its horses classified by categories (currently the Club owns 40 horses): special horses for beginners, which are docile and easy to ride and for intermediate level, faster horses are available for experienced riders. Finally there are the top horses which are suitable for the expert polo players. With all these assets combined, it is no wonder that the most prestigious Polo Schools in the world, such as Cambridge University Polo Club and Oxford University Polo Club travel every year in March to Ibiza Polo Club for a week of polo training in preparation for the UK grass season and some of the most important fixtures including La Martina Varsity Match and the Atlantic Cup. As their captains explained, the teams are very excited to be training in Ibiza, as the UK at this time of year is not known for its bright sunshine and rain free days. The chance to train on grass before the UK season begins is invaluable for the important fixtures at the start of the UK season. It’s not only the world renown polo schools that are excited to travel to Ibiza to play polo. Ibiza Polo Club School welcomes beginners, including children from 7 years old and up.

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IBIZA POLO CLUB offers businesses a fascinating experience to develop strategy and collective team consciousness. It unites colleagues while they learn to play polo as a team, and is more accessible than many people believe. It is exhilarating and provides many individual challenges that develops confidence in ability. Each team has 4 players playing on the grass field or 3 players playing in the sand arena. It’s crucial that each player works together with his colleagues to win. This develops communication and enhances the team mindset. In polo, the talent of each player relies on their teammates developing communication skills. On the field, they have to respond quickly to every situation. The collective strategy is as important as the individual skill of

Polo C L U B

each player. This creates a need and willingness to develop a common solution to problems. The game is an exciting challenge that tests the physical and mental ability of each player. It is a truly unique experience that the team will remember. Safety comes first. Insurance is mandatory for all the players and world-class instructors conduct every lesson. The horses are all highly trained and your teams safety and comfort is their primary concern.

IBIZA POLO CLUB itself offers a whole host of facilities. The Reception is open all week for information about registrations, sponsorship opportunities, polo school, private lessons, tournaments and practices. The club offers excellent facilities, a player’s dressing room, bathrooms, showers and a massage room.

The club boasts 60 stables that are spacious, comfortable and perfectly ventilated. They have automatic watering, and the horses are bedded on a hypo-allergenic natural bedding.

A 300 square meter roofed deck shelters the spectators and VIP guests so they can comfortably enjoy a polo game . There is a fully stocked bar and catering is available on pre-request. The size of the sand arena is 80 x 40 meters. This is the alternative field to the grass field when it rains and it is the ideal place to practice beach polo or fine tune your field techniques.

There are three fenced paddocks, each one of 60 x 60 meters for the horses to relax and graze in. The club also provide smaller paddocks for individual strings and have a sand exercise track of 450 meters to keep the horses fit and ready to play. The Polo Field itself is a 250 x 140 meters, grass field. The IBIZA POLO CLUB has its own clothing brand which is available at the exclusive club shop. Known as a one-stop shop for all things polo, the shop also stocks an extensive range of polo whites, shirts, t-shirts, sweatshirts, bags, boots, helmets, knee pads and polo goggles. You can also find quality reins, bridles, saddles and other equipment from trusted international suppliers to ensure your equine partner is fully kitted out. For more information, please visit www.ibizapoloclub.es

IBIZA POLO CLUB offers businesses a fascinating experience to develop strategy and collective team consciousness. It unites colleagues while they learn to play polo as a team

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The White Island is renowned for having some of the best nightclubs in the world. In summer the cream of the world's DJs (David Guetta, Sven Väth, Armin van Buuren and many more) descend on the island, making it the ultimate destination for clubbers. But there is also a unique side to the island which cannot be described in words, but must be experienced: the feeling of love and light that surrounds you the moment you set foot on this little Spanish isle. It’s the very reason why Ibiza is a favourite hideaway where expats from all over the world choose to start a new life.

ven during the dark days of the Spanish Civil War Ibiza was a haven for pioneering travelers, a place where in the 1930s, 1940s & 1950s freethinkers, writers, painters and other artists gathered to work and enjoy life on the 'White Island’. There are many theories about the ‘White Island’ nickname. Some people believe it comes from all the white houses, other theories say it’s because many decades ago, salt became the powerhouse of the Ibizan economy. Nowadays, this nickname has come to represent the Ibiza lifestyle, and you can find white everywhere: in architecture, fashion, interior and the world-famous white parties.

In the 1960s it was the 'flower power' revolution which brought hippies from across Europe to the Balearic island, attracted by its laid back attitude, unspoilt natural beauty and gentle climate. But it was in the 70s that the real tourist boom began. Ibiza was a haven of peace, the destination that many in those years wanted to reach. Many stars of the decade made it home for a time: Bob Marley, Thin Lizzy and Eric Clapton organised concerts in Ibiza’s bullring and the legend of Ibiza as an island of music began. Pachá, Es Paradis and Glory‘s nightclubs were appearing on the nightclub map, creating the real tourism peak in that decade. These clubs added an extra element to the natural charms of the island while retaining that special community atmosphere essential to its charm. Today you can still feel that charm in so many places: from the bohemian boutiques that sell handmade arts and crafts and the traditional white cotton and linen clothes to the all organic restaurants and stylish countryside fincas now turned into luxurious hotels. Here is a guide to the hidden gems of the island where you can still experience the relaxed side of Ibiza.

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Where to stay Atzaro

One of Ibiza’s most popular hang-out places lies in the north east of the island, near San Lorenzo and Santa Eulalia. Atzaro is more than simply a hotel, this super-luxe agriturismo hotel is more like a chic cultural community, with interesting events and a restaurant that attracts people from all over Ibiza. The family-run hotel has evolved from a 300-year-old farmhouse to become the very epitome of rustic chic. Vibrant bougainvillea grows everywhere and palms, grapevines and olive trees provide shade while the scents of herbs and flowers mingle in the air. Open all year, there is a livelier atmosphere than you might expect, as the restaurant and spa are popular with non-guests and there is always something going on. Come here to unwind in style and indulge in the top-notch spa which combines picturesque tranquility with indulgent, detoxifying and relaxing treatments, from massages to hammams. Or stay the night and enjoy the beautifully appointed, Ibiza-Asia inspired rooms with terraces; some even have their own fountains. The rooms are divided between the farmhouse and grounds, with the main pool located in the beautiful garden and surrounded by cosy daybeds. There is usually a DJ to provide a laid back vibe too. Different indoor and outdoor areas are used for dining and drinking depending on the season, but you can also sit in the Veranda restaurant where you choose between super healthy home grown organic veg dishes and not-so-healthybut-you’re-on-holiday meals. We recommend you stay long enough to try both, since everything else would mean missing out on food heaven!

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Los Enamorados

Close the island’s most secluded beaches, coves and cliffs, the north of Ibiza is home to a seaside scene-stealer called Los Enamorados (the lovers in Spanish). Perched on the rocks, the tiny Hotel is a dream project by Pierre Traversier, an exbasketball player and his Dutch wife Rozemarijn de Witte. Together they transformed a tired hostel into a creative boutique hotel in an unbeatable location. The sunset is stunning, plus the sea is translucent here making it a favourite place for snorkelers and scuba divers, and on a clear day you can see all the way to Mallorca. Since 2016 this little gem has offered attractive accommodation, a bar and restaurant that won’t disappoint and a boho boutique bazaar for treasure seekers. The hotel is filled with beautiful rugs, lamps, chairs brought back from the owners’ travels and quirky designer pieces such as the fish net sculptures made by Thai artist Karakot or a vase of famous US-potter Jonathan Adler. And, if you fall in love with something - you can buy it! Stylish all the way and bursting with good taste, Los Enamorados’ very ‘instagrammable’ interior is a daring hodgepodge of bold colours, unique textures from bamboo to velvet, quirky and eclectic furniture and artfully considered touches. Upstairs all nine rooms are slightly different, but each is styled with a personal stamp and global influences. Don’t expect minibars or TV’s, it’s all about simple luxury here. But, the Italian bedsheets are ultrasoft and the three double Coco-mat mattresses are heavenly. This is truly an idyllic place to live, laugh, love and soak up the true vibe of the island.

Perched on the rocks, the tiny Hotel is a dream project by Pierre Traversier

A heavenly haven on the island’s east coast.

Ibiza Zen

Atzaro is more than simply a hotel, this super-luxe agriturismo hotel is more like a chic cultural community, with interesting events and a restaurant that attracts people from all over Ibiza.

Home away from home - this is how you feel the moment you walk through the doors of Ibizazen Hotel in Santa Eulalia del Rio. The name of the island is combined with ‘Zazen’, which is a state of mind and means ‘just sitting’. Originally Ibizazen was a small farmhouse owned by the Bufi family, built on a spacious terraced garden of 8000m2 in the middle of its orange and lemon trees. The hotel is the creation of soulmates and entrepreneurs Jerry and Sophie Jean-Marius, and has an airy, homey feel thanks to lush landscaped gardens, authentic Ibiza stone terraces, palm-tree shaded areas, bamboo gazebos, stylish teak sun beds and a secluded Zen Garden. Inside, recycled art decorates the elegant lobby in a style that is minimalistic with splashes of play – east meets west with warm colourful touches. The Zazen Boutique is stocked full of goodies hand-picked and designed by the owners on their worldly travels throughout winter – with everything you need to encapsulate true Ibiza style. Peaceful mornings by the pool are aided by efficiently pre-ordered a la carte breakfasts including healthy fruit and veg smoothies and luxe deli items like ‘Dutch old-cheese’, marinated salmon, carpaccio and countless other mouth watering goodness. By night the restaurant offers a romantic, candlelit degustation menu. A heavenly haven on the island’s east coast.

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Silence Where to eat Wild Beets

Welcome to Vegan Paradise! Everything on the menu is vegan but all dishes are also gluten-free, plant-based and organic: from the Vietnamese pho, an infused vegetable broth with young coconut ribbons, zucchini noodles, topped with crushed cashews and coriander to the Chilli with tempeh and polenta to the Walnut Banana Pancakes layered with fresh fruit, drizzled with maple syrup and cashew yogurt. Grab a good book or your laptop and enjoy a healthy meal or a cold pressed detox juice by the fire place or sit on the little veranda overlooking the streets of Santa Gertrudis Village.

Welcome to Vegan Paradise!

La Paloma

The little mountain village San Lorenzo in the heart of Ibiza is home to one of the most romantic restaurants of the island - La Paloma. Founded in 2004 by an Italian expat family who renovated an old run-down finca, today the charming all blue and white building is one of the most popular places to eat and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. In summer you can sit outside in the fairytale garden surrounded by olive, lemon and orange trees while the beautifully decorated indoor dining room lit by the fire place has the perfect cosy countryside vibe for colder days. The menu is mainly Italian with fresh often organic ingredients from the garden and influences from the middle east. You’ll find tasty snacks and appetisers like hummus and pita bread, Tuscan antipasti with charcuterie and cheeses flown in specially from a small farm in Italy. Chef Daniela Prasuna Coppini changes the menu every week and serves a range of main courses from home made pasta to creamy risottos and a yummy choice of meat and fish dishes. Places like La Paloma are what makes Ibiza: the combination of laid back vibe, with real quality, style and great people.

Places like La Paloma are what makes Ibiza...laid back vibe, with real quality, style and great people.

Nagai

Located on the restaurant road from the capital to San Juan, Nagai is an outdoor foodie temple serving contemporary sushi and Japanese fusion cuisine. The multi-cultural team of four has run the restaurant since 2011, and created an unpretentious gypsy-style hideaway with the intimate atmosphere of your own courtyard. However the set up doesn’t lack island style: the rustic farmhouse boasts a cool boutique and Art Space and often DJs and life musicians meet up to play some super smooth shaman house tunes together. With all the cool and pretty people hanging out to chill to good sounds enjoying a perfectly balanced Spiced Pear Cocktail it might be hard to focus on the plates. But the first bite of the salmon avocado tartare or the Nagai prawns with coconut salad and chilli will take over your mind in an instant. Hold tight though as the treat has only just began! Think Japanese curry, hosomaki, sushi, sashimi for main courses and ginger terracotta with orange juice for a proper happy ending…

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Nagai is an outdoor foodie temple serving contemporary sushi and Japanese fusion cuisine.

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Watch how this calm beach side spot slowly turns into a breezy after-hours stomping ground Experimental Beach

Located in the middle of Ses Salinas, Experimental Beach features one of the rare beach clubs that has managed to stay kind of a secret hotspot over the years. In 2013 the renowned ECC group (Experimental Cocktail Club spanning Paris, London and New York) opened this relaxed barefoot restaurant on the rocks of Cap des Falco, a peninsula in the south of the island. Expect white luxurious sun beds from which you can watch the legendary sunset while sipping on a rum-infused Pineapple Èxpress. The clean beach house chic designed by Dorothée Meilichzon in combination with chilled Ibiza beats and a view that stretches across the Mediterranean to the very tip of Es Vedra have proved a winning combination here. All this and we have not even talked about the food… Fresh seafood stars include raw langoustine carpaccio with lemon or seabass in salt crust and octopus a la plancha. Vegetarian food lovers will be more than pleased with the quinoa avocado salad with goji seeds and greek yogurt. Come in the late afternoon to get a day bed and watch how this calm beach side spot slowly turns into a breezy afterhours stomping ground throughout the night.

Samahra offers a wide range of creative and innovative home accessories and gifts.

Favourite Shop Samahra Ibiza

The wide wooden doors of Samahra are painted in the turquoise shades of the Mediterranean sea and lead into a little bohemian shopping heaven. Hand-painted colourful door signs with peaceful messages like Namaste, Viva La Vida and Welcome greet the visitors right at the door step together with a mint coloured Buddha Statue that guards the entrance. Samahra offers a wide range of creative and innovative home accessories and gifts. If you’re looking for the perfect souvenir go for the wooden photo box from Seaflower Ibiza which contains a range of stunning pictures from around the island, each one endowed with a quote and the story behind the picture. How about getting one of the comfy sweaters made of recycled cotton and “Made in Ibiza not in China” embroidery?! In this charming fair trade boutique everything has been selected with love and care from the scented candles to the organic tea selection and precious minerals. You surely won’t leave without having bought a souvenir from the island of love and light… Judith Heede

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“KELLERWOOD IS CLOSING DUE TO RETIREMENT”

EVERYTHING

50% OFF

CLOSING DOWN

SALE A unique and once in a lifetime opportunity to buy Diamond rings, Diamond Jewellery, Coloured Gemstones and Jewellery of all discriptions AT 50% OFF

EVERYTHING MUST BE SOLD www.kellerwood.com ABSOLUTE

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A MUSTANG Adventure “The reactions from people and the joy they bring is second to none.”

’ve been coming to Ibiza for years and I have a special bond with the place. I’ve seen so many sides to the island and I’m still not sure why I love it so much. All I know is that I’ve travelled the world and I keep getting drawn back to this feeling of home and excitement, more so than anywhere else I’ve ever been. It’s similar to Bali for me in that if you give yourself to the island and you are open as a person it makes you open up to others in a way that few places and situations do. Ibiza is a time machine for me. Ibiza changes people and it certainly changed me. I met my wife Caroline on a mountain top skiing. Although it sounds like a cliché, the moment I saw her I decided I was going to marry her. It took me several months to get her to go on a date with me, but once she did, one of the first places I took her to was Ibiza, where she had not previously been. I knew the island would deliver for me and I knew she would love it. Fast forward a few years and Ibiza was the place where we got married and now we run the Mustang business in Ibiza together. The island presented me with an opportunity that was so unique and special. I had been coveting a 1968 fastback Mustang for years after watching my neighbour

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park his in our street in London, making my modern car seem like an alien. A friend of mine had started to import some classic cars from the US and finally I thought to myself “let’s buy some Mustangs and enjoy them on the amazing drives in Ibiza!” So I called him and said “let’s do this!!!” I flew down to Ibiza and drove a classic Mustang around the country roads and my feeling was confirmed: that this was the place to drive classic Mustangs! With the help and support of my beautiful wife we decided to throw everything at it and make our dreams and the dreams of our future customers come true. The more we started to realise our dream of offering classic Mustangs in Ibiza, the more we wanted it and we brought more Mustangs to the island. The latest two cars we’ve added to the fleet are a 1965 289 V8 convertible in red and a 1967 302 V8 convertible in baby blue. We purchased the cars in Somerset in England from a man who had about 50 exotic cars, all kept in a purpose built garage. The red convertible is a prize-winning show car, so we are super excited about this one! Instead of shipping them to Ibiza, such is the confidence we have in our cars, we decided to do a road trip through Europe and drive them all the way to Ibiza ourselves! The trip was a huge success and a proper Mustang

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Adventure! The reactions from people and the joy they bring is second to none. Driving the cars is like being a curator in a museum but an interactive one! We had to fix some bits and pieces on the way but that just got us to understand the vehicles more and appreciate each of their unique characteristics. Once we got to Ibiza we put the cars into our pony stables. Our extremely skilled mechanic has given them the love and care that they require on a regular basis and they are both running like a dream. The thing with these cars is they get under your skin. They look gorgeous and the noise is like nothing else. Especially one of the red convertibles in our fleet, it sounds like pure hell fire due to an after market exhaust system Even the standard cars we have with v8 engines sound incredible. Interestingly, they all sound slightly different. And they all feel slightly different too. That is the beauty of classic cars: each car is different from the next. Our Mustangs have all lived full lives (50+ yrs!), they have all developed their own unique characters and their own personalities, to match ours. Some of the boys who look after the cars for us have even given them their own names! We encourage everyone to try these cars out! Everyone loves Mustangs because they

are the peoples car, the original pony, born from a time when such a muscle car really was attainable, not just exclusively for people with money but for the people. They are an event, a pantomime of the automotive world, a time machine and Ibiza is their playground. And Ibiza is so much more than just going from the hotel pool to the beach and on to the restaurants and clubs. It is a truly stunning island with so much variation, in spite of its fairly small size: rolling hills, farm land and olive groves, dramatic mountains, coastline with crystal clear water, picturesque little villages, and much more. Experience all the beauty the island has to offer in a car to match it! With the high suspension these cars they can go down most small country roads, so you can really have a Mustang adventure! A match made in heaven...for me and I hope for you too. Cars Mustang Adventures in Ibiza gives you the ultimate form of travel, the most bold statement on four wheels and the ultimate party escape, available in a range of colours. Introducing the 1960’s Ford Mustang! Blue with white stripes: Who said go faster stripes were for teenagers? Embrace your inner eighteen year old because this Mustang is writing cheques it certainly can cash! With a 289 cubic inch V8 at the front, an automatic transmission in the

middle, and noise coming from the back, this pony has just come out our purpose built workshop and is ready to gallop! Blue with black stripes: It has the hardcore look, it has the hardcore engine and this 289 v8 'black stripe' is a weapon on the road! Linked up to an original 3 speed auto means you can enjoy every rev of the powerful engine. It is one of the fastest cars in the fleet, and with it being a hard top, one of the best handling too. The unusual colour combination means it gets just as many looks as the drop tops. Black Straight Six: For those who want to look as good as it gets, here is our black beauty with a gorgeous contrasting red pony leather interior. Under the hood lies a straight six engine which provides a lovely purr. If you want to cruise the country roads of Ibiza in a smooth and stylish fashion, look no where else. Red automatic convertible: Want the original feel? Just like how it was in 1965? Then feast your eyes, and certainly in this case, your ears too, with our 1965 Mustang 289 Convertible. Candy red on cream leather, original set up as far as breaks and steering to give an authentic feel. Don't, however, think this pony is all talk and no trot, because under the hood is a fully reworked 289 cubic inch (or 4.7 litres) v8 motor, pumping around 270 bhp to the wheels and what sounds like the ultimate

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in automotive orchestras to the exhaust. 4 speed automatic lets you sit back and relax. Baby blue convertible: Moody blue, called as such because the only thing she likes is open road! Despite the very clean baby blue exterior, this car has the biggest and most powerful engine in the fleet; a 302 cubic inch V8, linked up to a sequential style racing 4 speed gear box. The big engine makes a smooth ride at whatever speeds, but should the mood take you, you can leave most other cars on the island in your dust! Red manual convertible: For our involved drivers, we have our 4 speed manual, 289 v8. Drop the hood, put it in gear, and leave bystanders sick with envy. Candy red with a beautiful cream and red interior means you get to enjoy the inside just as much as the out. This is one of our most prized cars, fully kitted, including power assisted steering. Whether you want to hit some mountain roads, or just cruise around town, this is the car for you! Silver Mercedes: Mustang Adventures has a very special car in the fleet, bringing you Mercedes Adventures with a 1970's 280S. With power brakes and hydraulic steering, this car was top of the range back in the day. Just to throw a little originality into the big comfy cruiser, it actually has a factory manual gear box, so you can actually have some fun while looking like you own the island. www.mustangadventures.com

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Nagai IBIZA Nestled in the tranquil countryside on the road from Ibiza town to San Juan sits a truly remarkable restaurant. One whose story is nothing short of an amazing adventure, and is now approaching its eighth season, winning the 2017 award for best Japanese restaurant in Southern Europe. Nagai is cementing its reputation as a must visit for anyone descending on the white isle!

he restaurant is made up of a team of four globe-trotting entrepreneurs who have been brought together by sheer fate and a love of international cuisine, to create this exciting stylish restaurant which will stimulate all your senses and have you yearning for a return visit.

Nagai’s story began with owner Eleanora, travelling with her Brother Luigi from her home country of Italy around India and Thailand at a young age, and being offered a restaurant on the island of KohPangang. Coming from a family of restauranteurs, Eleanor jumped at the chance. On a fateful trip to Bangkok she embarked upon a chance meeting with Reina Nagai, who was backpacking at the time and staying with Eleanora’s friends. Eleanora, so impressed with Reina’s incredible talent for creating exquisite dishes out of the simplest ingredients, proposed a partnership that made a huge success out of the restaurant in Thailand, as well as two more in Italy, and most recently Nagai Ibiza! Nagai’s fourth member Melchior, an ex-international footballer who grew up in Ibiza, and has travelled the world, was working at the famous Blue Marlin when he met Eleanora. The couple fell in love and decided to open a restaurant together along with Luigi and Reina. Adopting Reina’s surname, which means Longevity, as previous restaurants on this site have lasted no longer than two years, Nagai is here to stay! So much passion and imagination has been put into this venture. All completely familyrun with Melchior designing the layout to be as harmonious as possible, Luigi, a plumber and builder by trade worked day and night to get the restaurant ready for the opening night, as well

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as being a sushi chef and accomplished musician and their resident DJ. Eleanora is as happy with a paintbrush as she is in the kitchen and front of house, and Head Chef is Reina, who I am sure had a hand in the Japanese look and feel to the place. Everything in Nagai’s is designed to stimulate the senses. Light, sound, and stunning contemporary Geisha artwork all work in harmony to excite and inspire conversation, with the majority of Nagai’s seating being outside on their boutique summer terrace surrounding a beautifully lit tree.

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Nagai’s is designed to stimulate the senses. Light, sound, and stunning contemporary Geisha artwork all work in harmony to excite and inspire conversation.”

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The passion and creativity so evident in the look and feel to Nagai Ibiza extends to the exceptionally well thought out, and ever evolving menu. Often described as “Japanese Fusion”, there are many classic Japanese dishes such as Sushi and Nigiri made from the finest Japanese rice and freshest fish, plus favourites such as Teriyake, Gyoza, and Karaage. The Chef’s creations also draw influences from Europe, Thailand, Korea, Europe, and all over the world, using only the best organic, most nutritious ingredients. Much care and attention to the finest detail is put into the presentation of each and every dish, and the combinations of flavours are designed to excite and rouse emotions. Everyone is catered for here, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options on the menu. It’s not all about the food at Nagai’s. They do all they can to support local artists, sculptors, and jewellery makers, displaying and selling their work. Local DJ’s musicians and performance artists will entertain you while you eat or sample one of their imaginative cocktails. Melchior will even give you a Tarot card reading on request! 2018 is going to be an exciting season for Nagai Ibiza, with some thrilling things already planned for their opening and closing parties, and maybe a few in between. They have a great team ready to look after all who grace their terrace. They will continue to experiment and develop new and exhilarating concepts in the dishes they produce, utilising the wealth of international experience on offer from the team. They have some exciting performance artists and musicians ready to entertain. On top of all this they will continue to support local charities such as the Ibiza Preservation Society and take part in beach cleaning. This is set to be their best season yet, so ensure you book a table! Although capable of seating many more, Nagai will book in less than 100 guests a sitting to ensure everyone has a good time and is well looked after! Tony Shattell

Nagai, Carretera a Sant Joan, 5, 07840, Islas Baleares, www.nagairestaurant.com

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The Ulitmate way To Explore Ibiza.

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THE H RESORT Unparalleled Paradise in The Seychelles Tranquil, boutique and culturally connected, the resort offers guests a chance to create memories worth sharing.

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ocated on Beau Vallon beach which lays northwest on the island of Mahé; a mere 30 minutes’ drive from the international airport The H Resort is a contemporary & chic property featuring 100 rooms comprising of villas and suites, an award winning spa and 7 eclectic dining experiences. As your paradise home away from home, the resort offers you the opportunity to enjoy all the modern comforts in this beautiful tropical paradise entwined with chic décor, sumptuous food & beverages and spacious luxury to relax in. Whether it’s a fun holiday with the family, a romantic escape or the start of one, or to even look back and reminisce life with a loved one The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach is known for its turquoise ocean views, crystal white beach and lush emerald greenery where you can expect nothing but undisturbed sights, charming creole hospitality and new heights of life & style indulgence. The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach offers an unparalleled collection of opulently appointed accommodations, relaxation and recreational spaces that showcase the true heritage of their Seychellois surroundings. The 100 villas and suites redefine paradise - they simply exude stylish opulence, stylish comfort and idyllic bliss. Designed to represent a blend between creole and colonial architecture - the resort is an epitome of tropical luxury. From plush furnishings and mesmerizing backdrops, to the spacious layout and beautiful finishing’s - all overlooking the topical tropical gardens leading to the beach. The beach facing private pool-villas offer an entirely new level of luxury. A unique product available only at this resort in the Beau Vallon beach area - each one occupies a private spot on the beach with direct access to the bay as well as a private pool, pool-deck, cabana, outdoor rain showers, luxury in-room amenities and personal pampering products. Similarly the suites include a comfortable double bed and lounge area with luxurious amenities of comparison. All suites have choice of private terrace balcony or a terrace that opens out onto the resort gardens, complete with sun loungers.

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The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach is known for its turquoise ocean views, crystal white beach and lush emerald greenery where you can expect nothing but undisturbed sights, charming creole hospitality and new heights of life & style indulgence.

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Each villa or suite also features indoor and outdoor daybeds and dining areas; plush sofas, beds and seating areas; pristine bathrooms featuring oversized freestanding bathtubs and rain showers - as well as all the modern technologies such as a large screen LCD and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. With seven eclectic dining experiences in the form of bars and restaurants to choose from – you’re spoilt for choice. The resort offers a wide selection of dining options. VASCO’s is the main restaurant featuring continental cuisine, that serves breakfast & themed dinner buffets is named in honor of the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. The 1502 Lobby Bar is your haven for for eclectic cocktails that compliment your meals throughout the day. Seyshima is the Japanese teppanyaki restaurant on the lagoon that serves up an excellent show and delectable sushi and Eden is the specialty Creole inspired

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beach-front barbecue restaurant. Ripples Pool Bar is ideal for some amazing cocktails and light lunch and Trader Vic’s the French-Polynesian tiki bar concept restaurant features Latin-American live entertainment. Guests can also choose the resort’s ‘pièce de résistance,’ a bespoke, romantic under the moon & stars dining on the beach coupled with the ambience of the soothing ocean waves. Customised options also include privatised group reservations for beach and/or in-villa barbecues as well as a luxurious in-villa floating pool breakfast. Holidays are meant for indulgence so guests are encouraged to pamper themselves at the award winning Sesel Spa or try some customised workouts at the Beau Vallon Gym & Yoga Studio to flaunt that beach body. Sesel Spa is a true heaven within a haven - whether it’s a results orientated treatment, or just an experience of utter relaxation you’re looking for, it is a must, to make it a part of your Seychelles experience.

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THE H RESORT

You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your child is well cared for by a team of professional caretakers who arrange funfilled activities.

Explore the healing elements in nature and discover the true essence of being at one with yourself. Named as a tribute to its destination (Sesel is the Creole name for Seychelles), this blissful space features a total of seven treatment rooms including five single rooms and two couples suites, in addition to a Vichy Hydrotherapy room. We also have a salon for nails, hair and other beauty therapies. ‘Sesel Spa’ offers a selection of signature treatments that infuse the best of Western and Eastern techniques – all implemented by expert therapists who take a holistic approach to wellness. The luxury relaxation areas offer a tranquil setting for both pre and post massage treatments, so make sure you spend some time there to truly rediscover wellness. Open 24/7 and overlooking the lagoon, the Beau Vallon Gym & Yoga Studio is equipped with state-of-the-art Life Fitness cardio machines and free weights. The Beau Vallon Studio is perfect for syncing your body and mind with yoga. Guests can take advantage of the complimentary recreational schedule – ‘Fit Happens @ H’ which is

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designed for the holidaying guest’s fitness goals. In addition to our fitness and yoga programmes, recreational facilities are dotted throughout the resort with the stunning infinity pool taking centre stage. With ample sun loungers and parasols bordering it, the 24 meter long sapphire blue water invitingly tempts you to submerge. The accompanying kids’ pool is a safe 0.4 meter in depth. Also on offer is tennis, volleyball, pétanque, table tennis, a giant chessboard, masks, snorkels, paddle boards and kayaks to satisfy all your holiday recreational needs. It’s not only the grown-ups that are spoilt - a world of exploration and fun awaits the little ones at Treetops Kids’ Club. Happy kids make for happy parents and this is the main priority. You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your child is well cared for by a team of professional caretakers who arrange fun-filled activities. Suitable for children aged 3 to 12 years, the club is open daily from 9am – 6pm. The resort also offers baby-sitting services and can prepare baby-food upon prior requests.

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THE H RESORT

Guests can also indulge in our weekly activities that includes a range of paid & complimentary options like transfers to Victoria city, drop-off for the Anse Major Hike, cocktails & conversations with the resort management, a scenic sunset cruise in a glass bottom boat, bi-weekly live-entertainment, Cinema Paradiso, sundowners and many more seasonal events – there’s always something for everyone to enjoy at the resort. This intimate, tropical island retreat is the perfect location for a destination wedding or honeymoon. When one thinks of the term ‘tropical island’, it conjures up thoughts of pristine ivory shorelines, a turquoise ocean and a backdrop of luscious greenery. This is exactly what you can expect at The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach – the perfect destination to turn the dream wedding into a beautiful reality. Couples can choose to say ‘I do’ either along the beach, in the spectacular garden gazebo or in a number of secluded venues dotted around the resort. In addition to an idyllic backdrop, a customised wedding ceremony can be organized by the team of wedding specialists. From eclectic table designs, tiered wedding cakes and bespoke menus, to entertainment, bamboo ceremony archways and a civil ceremony officer, there’s no dream that can’t be made into a reality. The H Resort offers a number of packages that can be tailored to ensure that each and every wedding is both perfect and personal. If you are looking for the ultimate honeymoon escape or just a time away with family, then look no further than The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach. Everything, from the moment you arrive, to the time you reluctantly depart, has been designed with the discerning traveler in mind.

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If you are looking for the ultimate honeymoon escape or just a time away with family, then look no further than The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach. Everything, from the moment you arrive, to the time you reluctantly depart, has been designed with the discerning traveler in mind.

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For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.hresortseychelles.com or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @thehresortseychelles.

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C U L I N A R Y D I S C O V E R Y AT

The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach Seychelles

A world of gastronomic adventure is waiting to be discovered at The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach Seychelles. Open to both guests and now the public, this luxury resort now offers a smorgasbord of restaurants set to capture the imaginations and hearts of the most discerning of diners.

A venue that oozes Asian sophistication and is renowned for its mouthwatering selection of Teppanyaki and Sushi.

Eden

Nestled between the luscious greenery of the gardens on the property and at the foot of the beach, Eden is a hub of gastronomic experiences. Romantic yet authentic, it serves a delicious selection of Creole inspired dishes with fresh seafood and prime cuts of meat from the BBQ. The restaurant seats up to 50 people and can be hired out, upon request, for intimate wedding receptions and celebrations. The dedicated team of chefs & service staff ensure and cook the meat to your choice while the sommelier enthralls you with their excellent selection of wines.

Seyshima

Seyshima, derived from ‘Sey’ for Seychelles and ‘Shima’ - the Japanese term for island, is a venue that oozes Asian sophistication and is renowned for its mouthwatering selection of Teppanyaki and Sushi. The restaurant is located on the natural lagoon that flows through the resort and true to its name gives you an island dining experience. The quaint and cosy restaurant can seat up to 25 persons and is perfect for family and couples to dine in. A popular venue for Japanese cuisine on the Mahé, diners can simply enjoy some freshly rolled sushi or can dine a la carte whilst they revel in a Teppan show by the chef.

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Seyshima

Nestled between the luscious greenery of the gardens on the property and at the foot of the beach, Eden is a hub of gastronomic experiences.

Eden

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THE H RESORT

This lobby bar is a quintessential venue and the place to discover your own paradise with their concoctions of delectable cocktails

Vasco’s & 1502 Lobby Bar

The resort’s main restaurant, which is named after the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, is the perfect spot to enjoy your breakfast or to finish your day with a hearty dinner. Openaired, bright and contemporary in décor, it offers both indoor and al fresco seating for up to 125 guests. The buffet and live stations feature international and Creole cuisine and offers a daily changing theme for dinner. On dedicated evenings, a variety of traditional dance and live music performances keep you entertained. 1502 was the year in which Vasco da Gama sighted the Seychelles islands. This lobby bar is a quintessential venue and the place to discover your own paradise with their concoctions of delectable cocktails, fine wines and spirits. You can enjoy some shisha on the terrace while you soak in the sunset colors or some sporty bites and beverages while you enjoy the live sports and games or a weekly screening of classic movies.

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Vasco’s & 1502 Lobby Bar

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Trader Vic’s Seychelles

Trader Vic’s is an internationally renowned restaurant and bar. The founder Victor Jules Bergeron, Jr. opened his first outlet that bore his nick-name Trader Vic and ever since the FrenchPolynesian bar & restaurant concept has grown by leaps and bounds. Trader Vic’s Seychelles as a venue is the life and soul of the Beau Vallon and home to the famous Mai Tai® cocktail – which dates back to 1944. Years ahead of his time, this world renowned restaurant chose to offer Chinese dishes alongside the then-contemporary continental cuisine, creating the original fusion menu decades before it would become a trend. Following the culinary curiosity along the ancient spice route, the founders collected recipes to bring back to Trader Vic’s, and this eclectic cuisine reinvented fine dining. Following in these footsteps, each venue is constantly innovating and adding to the menu while the zeal to scour the globe for new ideas and revolutionising dishes goes on. The signature restaurant in Seychelles sets a world-standard for tropical sophistication with its eclectic cuisine – enhanced by using a Chinese wood-fired oven. Trader Vic’s Chinese Ovens can be traced back to the Han Dynasty. This method of cooking differs from traditional direct fire barbecues and imparts a subtle flavor and helps create a unique dining experience. Each Trader Vic’s showcases this style of ancient cooking. You get to savor an exciting menu every month along with the authentic ‘Taste the World Cuisine’ available all through the year or just enjoy and sip the tropical cocktails curated from international & local favourites. Be it the Mai tai or the Seyhorse, you are guaranteed an amazing time as you relax & sit in the spectacular interior space, or on the terrace overlooking the lagoon while you are entertained by the resident band featuring a LatinAmerican influence. The restaurant has an exciting atmosphere with the exotic décor, including timeless and authentic artefacts from around the globe and can seat up to 100 guests. It’s the perfect venue for corporate parties, wedding reception or simply celebrating life!

Be it the Mai tai or the Seyhorse, you are guaranteed an amazing time as you relax & sit in the spectacular interior space.

Trader Vic’s Seychelles

For more information, or to make a reservation at any of the restaurants, please visit www. hresortseychelles.com

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TH E P E R F EC T VENU E TO SAY “I DO ”!

EVERY WEDDING IS AS UNIQUE AS YOU ARE! For more information call 01293 871571 (8am – 11pm daily) enquiries@ghyllmanor.co.uk ghyllmanor.co.uk https://www.ghyllmanor.co.uk/ #GhyllManor @GhyllManor

WIN YOUR DREAM WEDDING with GHYLL MANOR & ABSOLUTE SUSSEX A prize value of £5999 A Classic Wedding Package for 65 Guests

Complimentary “Mini Moon” 1st Year Anniversary DBB for Bride & Groom House DJ Chair Covers and Sashes Ceremony Flowers Classic Floral Table Centres Classic Naked Wedding Cake Lit LED Dance Floor or Photo Booth TO ENTER PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@ABSOLUTEMAGAZINE.CO.UK subject marked Wedding competition, with your full name / age / postal address and phone number and a short message why you would like to have your special day at Glynn Manor. Proposed dates for the wedding to take place Subject to availability in 2019 and T&C apply see our website for full information www.absolutemagazine.co.uk

Image by Robin Bradshaw at Bullit Photography. www.bullitphotography.co.uk

Exclusive use of Hunsdon Hall, Terrace Room, The Conservatory, or The Summer House for your civil ceremony. Two glasses of sparkling wine for each of your guests. 3 course wedding breakfast with tea, coffee and mints. Half bottle of house wine per person A glass of sparkling wine for each of your guests for the toast. An evening finger buffet for up to 100 guests. Operational Manager to act as “Master of Ceremonies” Personalised place cards, table plan and menus. Silver cake stand and knife. Four poster bedroom for Bride and Groom.

THE VERY BEST OF SUMMER ATTRACTIONS FOR THE FAMILY IN SUSSEX AND LONDON The summer months are upon us and the long sun-streaked days stretch out ahead. I’ve spent the year so far imagining myself lazing in a deckchair on a freshly mowed lawn, listening to a jazzy orchestra play, sipping a Pimm’s and surrounded by laughter. To fill the summer days, we have compiled a list of events and festivals which are great for the whole family. This is what we recommend to make this summer one to remember…

Sussex attractions Drusillas Park, Throughout the Summer Add some picture perfect moments to your 2018 scrapbook with a trip to Drusillas Park! Enjoy all the amazing animals, attractions and events on offer at the award-winning zoo in East Sussex. With over one hundred different animal species, there is plenty to enthral every visitor! Come and see some amazing animals, from meerkats to sloths, to penguins, lemurs, monkeys and more. This summer Drusillas is bursting with exciting children’s characters! Come and meet Paw Patrol, Peppa Pig, The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, PJ Masks, Spider-Man and Bing and Flop to mention a few!

Loxwood Medieval Festival - 4, 5, 11 & 12 August The heart of the Sussex countryside could not be a better place to find this festival and to transport you back to the medieval times. Real-life characters from that iconic period in history will be present to tell tales and talk to the public. The art and craft stalls will also provide an opportunity to see the talented work of independent craftspeople. There will be battles, jousts and chainmail workshops to add to the atmosphere of the weekend; you can even attend a medieval banquet where you can try authentic and historical dishes.

This summer Drusillas is bursting with exciting children’s characters! Come and meet Paw Patrol, Peppa Pig, The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, PJ Masks, SpiderMan and Bing and Flop to mention a few!

Don’t forget to explore Drusillas’ new attraction Go Safari! Take to the skies with the Hippopotobus and the Flying Cheetahs, and then hop aboard the Safari Express train. Plus there’s all the usual animal magic, heaps of adventure play, the Get Wet! splash pad, amazing rides and a Hello Kitty Secret Garden. Drusillas is located just off the A27 at Alfriston.

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wellbeing area and an accessibility tent. All children under 11 go free but must have a ticket.

Worthing Summer Cinema, August 10, 11, 12 August

Sunday on the Park, LoveBN1 Fest, Preston Park 5 August

Open-air seaside summer cinema is arriving in Worthing! Denton Gardens will be spectacularly transformed into the town’s first-ever alfresco cinema with a giant LED high-definition screen showing three movies a day between August 10th and 12th.

Undeniably one of the biggest events to take over Brighton in the summer is Brighton Pride. A brand new event this year takes place at Preston Park and is a community and family-friendly day of fun and celebration. Head-lining the day will be Nile Rogers & CHIC. Other activities are will include circus skills, an Alice in Wonderland themed-party, street food, a

From the famous thrum of danger signalling the approach of Jaws to the King of the Swingers in Jungle Book to the defiant singalong of This is Me from The Greatest Showman, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Famous tunes - some singalong, some not - will waft through the summer air as a selection of famous classic films are aired, some of which will be free to view.

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THE VERY BEST OF SUMMER ATTRACTIONS FOR THE FAMILY IN SUSSEX AND LONDON

The Bird Man, Bognor Regis - 11-12 August Starting in 1971, this event has grown into a local tradition and every year this bizarre event attracts crowds to the beach for a day of entertainment and spectacle. The event sees individuals dressed up in costumes and contraptions as they jump off the pier to see who can fly the distance of 50 yards. The Birdman has become a international event as many competitors come from abroad to compete, however, the current record stands at 89.2 metres, and was set in 1992 by Bognor local, Dave Bradshaw. Magical Festival, Borde Hill - 17-19 August Held in the Parkland, this 3-day festival is centred on an ethos of positivity and creativity. The festival is 2 years old and has been created especially for adults and kids, the festival-goers will have a range of wholesome activities and music to choose from, some of the main options are; yoga, swing dance, cake decorating, ecstatic dance and face painting. Not just for families this festival will also attract adults in their own right but will be a safe place for all. If you're looking for a quieter space to spend time and avoid the business of summer, this small-scale festival will be based in natural surroundings with options to camp in nature and will attract around 1000 people.

Arundel Festival - 18-27 August 10 days of culture, dance, music and markets, the historic town of Arundel holds the festival every year and is celebrating its 40th birthday this summer. The festival includes local theatre, art and lots of delicious local produce. A treasure hunt will take place every day and for adults, there is a day-time wine tasting event held by the Arundel Wine Society. Another unmissable event is Shakespeare at Arundel Castle; this year will be The Merchant of Venice performed in the Castle gardens. Picnic in the grounds or indulge on the popular the hog roast served every year. Following this, the festivals renowned charity event the Dragon Boat Race will be held on 25th of August, and to windup the excitement of the previous 10 days The Vintage Day held on the Bank Holiday Monday finds people dressed in 50’s style costumes as retro vehicles line the streets. Notting Hill Carnival, 26, 27 August It happens every year. London sets aside the Sunday and Monday encompassing their 'bank holiday' on Monday for one of the world's largest street carnivals; Notting Hill Carnival. Each year, close to one million people attend this two-day celebration of Caribbean heritage on the streets of Notting Hill. Celebrations include costume-clad Caribbean's dancing to traditional reggae, meringue, calypso, rumba, and zouk music, and street vendors selling foods like seasoned jerk chicken, callaloo, and traditional goat stew. Many Caribbean foods have roots from cuisines of Europe, America, China, and Africa.

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Tulley’s Farm, Turners Hill – Open all through summer One of my own childhood highlights, this family run farm is one of the best ways to spend a day outdoors. With seasonal events and activities all throughout the year, in the summer months the farm opens The Giant Maize Maze to the public. This main attraction consists of 8 acres of corn which is cultivated into huge labyrinth. You can find Tulley’s Farm in the countryside near Turner’s Hill. It has everything onsite for a family day out with on-site parking, a restaurant, picnic benches, baby changing, it is also pushchair and dog friendly. West Wittering Beach- All summer activity Arguably the best beach in the UK is luckily located in West Sussex. It is one of few sandy beaches in the UK with sand-dunes and pastel coloured beach huts lining the edge of the sea. There is a huge car park, lifeguards, toilets and a variety of food outlets. Far from any main roads and right by the quaint village of West Wittering; the beach is just right for a family day-out or weekend. There are also plenty of camping sites by the beach, or if you prefer to stay in a hotel, Chichester Harbour just along the shore.

Findon Sheep Fair and Village Festival, 9 September Fancy something a little different? Each year during the second weekend in September, the Findon Sheep Fair and Village Festival takes place at Nepcote Green. This is a popular local event with up to 7000 visitors attending on the Saturday. There are craft stalls, sheep displays, sheep judging, a funfair, food stalls, and many other displays and attractions on the green. There is a sheep judging show which attracts farmers with their sheep from across the south of England, and judges countrywide. Admission is free on the Saturday. On the Friday and Saturday evening there are dances in the marquee which are ticket only entry. London attractions Sensational Butterflies at the Natural History Museum - 29 March to 16 September 2018 This is a classic must-do family activity that has been held for the last 10 years. The tropical butterfly house on the museum lawn has added new varieties of butterflies and provides an opportunity for kids to watch the transformation of caterpillars into butterflies and learn about one of nature’s most beautiful life cycles. Open all throughout the summer the museum is a good choice for a rainy summer’s day. In addition, a new exhibit will open in July called Life in the Dark, and whilst at the museum take the opportunity to see the top 100 photos from the 2017 Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition which is on display until September.

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Underbelly Festival, Southbank 6 April - 20 September 2018 This festival has been taking place on the banks of the Thames for 10 years and is a well-established arts and culture festival. Circus, theatre, cabaret, music and children’s shows are on the agenda this year with big names such as Ruby Wax, Katy Brand and Sara Pascoe heading up the comedy. A highly popular event, pre-booking is advised. Another feature nearby on the South Bank this summer is Danish artist Jeppe Hein’s ‘Appearing Rooms’: a mixture of sculpture and water fountains are great entertainment for the kids to splash around in and lose some steam. Kids Week, London Theatres 1st to 31st August 2018 If you're a fan of theatre, August will be your month to go all out and indulge on some of the best shows in London. The purpose behind the event is to make theatre accessible to youngsters, and their parents! Adults pay full price but kids (age 5-16) go free. There are 43 West End shows to choose from including School of Rock, Strictly Ballroom the Musical, Mamma Mia, The Lion King, Aladdin and Wicked. Tickets must be bought beforehand and go on sale in June 2018. Hampton Court Palace Food Festival 25 - 27 August 2018 Food heaven for the family. Hampton Court Palace Food Festival is a foodie paradise with plenty of free activities to entertain people of all ages. Children aged 0-5 enter for free. This site is a perfect place to spend the bank holiday weekend, the historical location and large gardens provide plenty of space to relax or muse about the food stalls. This is a great event to learn more about independent producers and brands: a list of the exhibitors is on the website. In addition, live cooking demos, book signings from celebrity chefs and live music are all planned for this 3 day food-fiesta. There will also be cookery classes, such as; cake decorating, a sourdough workshop, and specialised kids cookery classes making pizzas and peppermint creams.

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INTRODUCTION BRIGHTON PROPERTY MARKET OVERVIEW BAOBAB

rdinarily the housing market in Brighton is bulletproof. We seem, in our wonderful city, to be inured from the slings and arrows of the fluctuating national housing market but, despite initial good signs post referendum, the Brexit bite is taking hold. Without question, the property market within Brighton and Hove is having a tough time. Having enjoyed times of plenty of late, it appears we have succumbed to the national downturn. I have to confess that this has been a surprise to me - I had assumed we would be immune. We benefit from a privileged combination of factors in Brighton and Hove: geography - all markets are governed by supply and demand and Brighton and Hove is a limited space, bounded by the Downs to the north and the sea to the south; a variety of markets - beyond the local market, we attract downsizers, sun seekers, Londoners, weekenders, second homers, the silver pound, the pink pound. For many years these saw us rise above the issues the rest of the country might struggle with.

Leaner times though have taken hold and this is not necessarily bad thing. It corrects the outrageous and unbridled increase in prices, makes the market more inclusive and removes from the market some of the less principled operators; there is an economic darwinism which cleans out the wheat from the chaff and that can only be a good thing. Even in these straightened times, houses of considered design still perform well. At Baobab we try to design and build houses that embrace the central tenets of what we aim to achieve, our Baobab DNA, of design, detail, light, space, materiality and over delivery of specification. We have seen that properties based on these principles still perform, irrespective

of market, a design premium that shows that the housing market in Brighton and Hove is a savvy one and deserves a housing offer that exceeds the average.

The agents I speak with are beginning to talk of green shoots and are confident that postBrexit, despite the disaster it will inevitably be, stability and growth will return. Markets hate uncertainty and once we know where we are after the 29th of March next year, buyers will start buying again and sellers will start selling. I, for one, cannot wait. There are some incredibly exciting projects in the pipeline in the city, with the King Alfred scheme, Black Rock, Soho House, the Sea Lanes, Preston Barracks, Circus Street, the old Amex building, the next phase at the Marina, Kings House to name but a few. This creates a momentum and I hope this sees an upward movement in the design and provision of housing in Brighton and Hove. I hope we recognise Regency architecture to be the punk rock it was of its day and then honour it with progressive architecture as opposed to pastiche and this can only happen with the agreement and assistance of the Planning Department who, to my mind, err on the side of caution far too much. Alongside and abundance of local architectural talent, we are attracting architects of note from far afield, such as John Pardey, Farshad Moussavi, Carl Turner, and I hope the planning system continues to support the ambition of the developers that are trying to raise the bar in this beautiful city of ours. Far too often the planning system is a barrier to development and a subtle shift is required here. in the main though, the future is bright and I hope Baobab can continue to be at the vanguard of this progression.

Paul Templeton Director www.baobabdevelopments.com RIBA award winners 2017

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Shoreham's REVIVAL ON THE RIVER

The green light has been given for a major riverside development in Shoreham

ontinuing the ever-evolving regeneration of Shoreham, plans to build 540 new riverside homes, including 162 affordable units, on a derelict harbour site have been approved by councillors. Southern Housing Group's proposal to create a ten building development on the Free Wharf site in Brighton Road received the green light at a meeting of Adur District Council's planning committee. The approval is the first step in the local authority's long-term ambition to regenerate Shoreham Harbour and create a new highquality residential area with riverside promenade and cycle path. In addition to half of the three acre site being transformed into attractive public space, a retail unit, three restaurants, and office space for small and medium business will be created. Developers also pledged to set aside more than £2 million towards infrastructure improvements. This includes highways, schools and health provision as well as measures to mitigate the impact of the development on air quality. Councillor Carol Albury, Chairman of Adur District Council's Planning Committee, said: “While it was not an easy decision to take, the committee believes this development will provide significant economic, social and environmental benefits which demonstrably outweigh any negative effects of the proposal.” “As part of the Adur Local Plan, which was previously approved, the council has committed to building at least 1,100 houses along the western harbour arm. This is the first step in achieving that total.” Southern Housing Group said it had spent the last two years working closely with council planners and residents in drawing up the plans. The developers commented the design approach had received the support of the Coastal Design Review Panel and would “stand the test of time”. The 162 affordable homes, which meets quotas in the Adur Local Plan, includes 122 homes for shared ownership and 40 for affordable rent. As part of the Adur Local Plan, which was previously approved, the council has committed to building at least 1,100 houses along the western harbour arm. This is the first step in achieving that total.

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As part of the Adur Local Plan, which was previously approved, the council has committed to building at least 1,100 houses along the western harbour arm. This is the first step in achieving that total.”

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The first step in the local authority's long-term ambition to regenerate Shoreham Harbour and create a new high-quality residential area with riverside promenade and cycle path.

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Flood defences lasting more than 100 years will also be provided at the former Minelco site.

Southern Housing Group said it would agree to a council request to provide more affordable rented apartments in the development in the future, if it was proved to be financially viable. In addition to the riverside pedestrian and cycle route, the developers will create mooring platforms and an observation platform at the end of Humphrey's Gap. Flood defences lasting more than 100 years will also be provided at the former Minelco site. Councillors recognised the location of the site near to the town centre and railway station meant that the provision of 512 car parking spaces (438 for residents) was enough given the developers' pledge to encourage residents to use sustainable transport. Space for 596 bicycles will also be provided. A detailed travel plan, which will deter future residents from owning cars, and £138,000 of Section 106 payments will go towards limiting the impact of air pollution.

Southern Housing Group said 224 jobs will be created in the construction phase with the council securing a commitment to use local labour force and employ apprenticeships where possible. Up to 170 further jobs will be provided once the development is complete. Councillor Brian Boggis, Adur District Council's Executive Member for Regeneration, said: “The regeneration of the Shoreham Harbour arm has been a long held ambition of the council and I'm pleased that the committee has taken this first step in developing this former industrial area.” “As well as providing some much needed affordable housing for local residents on a derelict brownfield site, half of the area will be turned into high-quality public space something that will enhance Shoreham's growing reputation as a vibrant coastal town.”

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C ASA M O R A DA FO R SALE 5 BE D RO O M H O U S E W I T H S EPA R AT E F L AT CHARL OT T E S T R E ET - K EM P TOWN £ 1,500, 000

This five storey Victorian house, moments from the sea, is available to buy. Expertly renovated by RIBA award winners Baobab Developments, this is a stylish, high tech yet comfortable family home with five double bedrooms, sea views from the west balcony, a private courtyard, spacious sun terrace and a self- contained one bedroom apartment, perfect for rental, AirBNB or granny annex. 3085 sqft . 5 double bedrooms . 2 receptions . sun terrace . self contained 1 bedroom apartment . sea facing balcony . mural by ART+BELIEVE . gaggenau appliances . control4 home control and audiovisual system . lutron lighting control . marble worktop . dinesen flooring . ultra high specification

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We are Brighton based boutique developers, passionate about building incredible houses that enhance the lives of the people fortunate enough to live in them. We won our first RIBA award in 2017. We intend on winning many more. It is our firm conviction that good houses improve lives and this guides all that we do. Design drives decisions. We use renowned architects, we commission designers, be they lighting, kitchen, bathroom, interior, landscape, home automation, and it is this use of experts that allows us to concentrate on delivering the key components of ever y Baobab house – design, detail, light, space.

We recognise that many people would not consider a newly built property: this stems from the soulless, profit driven finish associated with so many developers, as well as the complete absence of imagination and consideration in the design. We want to buck that trend. We want to create properties, at all levels of size and budget, that are appropriate to the way people live in the 21st centur y. Well designed properties, both in functionality as well as aesthetics, help us lead better and more fulfilling lives. We, as developers, want to build houses that do this.

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Worthing’s Continental Makeover Continental-style boulevards have been unveiled as Worthing's thoroughfares get multi-million pound makeover

bold new plan to transform the look and feel of Worthing town centre is taking a big step forward with the publication of proposals to revamp two main streets. Up to £5 million has been allocated to redesign South Street and Portland Road to kick-start the Public Realm project, led and initially funded by West Sussex County Council, which will revitalise public spaces from the station to the seafront. More open continental-style boulevard walkways, pedestrianisation, tree plantings, new contrasting paving designs, courtyards and a new piazza are planned to soften the streetscape of the town. The county council, working in partnership with Worthing Borough Council, has now decided that the most adventurous options for South Street and Portland Road from last year's options appraisal will be pursued and developed further. Detailed design work will now get underway over the summer and the

The county council, working in partnership with Worthing Borough Council, has now decided that the most adventurous options for South Street and Portland Road from last year's options appraisal will be pursued

options will evolve and develop through to an anticipated public consultation in the Autumn. In these first versions at the northern end of South Street the clock tower outside the Guildbourne Centre will be moved to the centre of the junction and raised as part of a new piazza adorned with permanent fabric shades. Along South Street itself buses will be diverted and pedestrians given priority. Tree planting and benches will flow down to the seafront where a wider 'shared-surface' junction is to be created linking the street to the pier and a space for outdoor performances created. On Portland Road the carriageway width will be reduced south of Shelley Road and a tree-lined avenue cultivated with two sharedsurface courtyard squares created. Moving further towards Montague Street more treelined shared space would be created which again prioritises pedestrians. Provision for on street parking and emergency access will be considered as the designs progress.

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Tree planting and benches will flow down to the seafront where a wider 'shared-surface' junction is to be created linking the street to the pier and a space for outdoor performances created.

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Worthing’s Continental Makeover

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Louise Goldsmith, Leader of West Sussex County Council, said: “We believe these are bold, exciting and innovative ideas, which would bring better connectivity and a host of enhancements to Worthing town centre's street scene.” “The ideas are likely to evolve as we now move into the detailed design stage for the public spaces in Portland Road, South Street South and South Street North.” “This multi-million-pound makeover is part of the Growth Deal which will see the county council and Worthing Borough Council working in partnership to make regeneration in the area a reality.” Worthing Borough Council's Executive Member for Regeneration, Cllr Kevin Jenkins, said: “I'm really pleased to see these first two schemes come forward so that the public can see we are determined to revitalise some of the main thoroughfares in the town.” “We want visitors and residents alike to have a pleasant experience walking from the top of our town to the seafront. I believe these schemes open up the place so people can more appreciate what fine buildings, first class retail and leisure opportunities and beautiful vistas we have.” “I am delighted to be working with the county council on something that will make a tremendous difference to the feel of the place.” The plans form part of a Growth Deal agreed by West Sussex County Council and Worthing Borough Council last year.

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The deal sets out a joint pledge to work in partnership on a number of key projects to deliver regeneration and growth in the area during the next five years. Public realm in Worthing town centre is one of those projects, with the improvements helping connect and enhance six key redevelopment sites in the town - Teville Gate, Union Place, Grafton, Stagecoach, Aquarena, and the Civic Site. Other streets included in the Public Realm project are Montague Street and Marine Parade, Teville Gateway, Chapel Road, Chapel Road South, and the Town Hall. Altogether the Public Realm schemes will cost £12 million and the two Councils have agreed to work together to identify funds from would-be developers to fund the rest of the works. In the meantime the £5 million cost of the first two schemes will be funded by the county council. All of the Public Realm development sites had three options for development ranging from modest to the dramatic. The Councils have proposed that South Street and Portland Road should have the 'gold' standard option. This will now go out to public consultation shortly. The work also feeds in to Worthing Borough Council's Seafront Investment Plan, which was launched last year and envisages promenade improvements which will link to the public realm work. The investment plan also includes proposals to create a natural lagoon for water sports, the creation of new restaurants in seafront shelters at West Buildings and Steyne Gardens and an overall improvement to the seafront offer.

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E X P A N D I N G

Heathrow

eathrow’s runways are full and have been operating at 98% capacity for over a decade. This has resulted in airlines not being able to grow at Heathrow, choosing instead to fly to other European airports like Paris and Frankfurt. With research showing that direct air connectivity between two countries helps to facilitate greater trade, plans to expand Heathrow are on the cards. Because Heathrow’s runways are full, Britain has not been able to add as many new routes to growing economies in Asia and the Americas. Meanwhile, countries like Germany and France – who have expanded their hub airports – have added those connections and today export more goods and attract more tourists from growing markets like China. That has meant Britain losing out to our European competitors in the global race for foreign investment, jobs and trade. If Britain wants to secure its economic future and its status as an international aviation hub, it will need to look to expand its hub airport at Heathrow.The Government’s decision to support expansion at Heathrow was a decision that will help deliver new domestic routes and connect more of the country to fast growing markets around the world. This will create new opportunities for businesses across the country, boost exports, and help to secure Britain’s future as an open, outwardlooking trading nation.

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Countries like Germany and France – who have expanded their hub airports – have added connections and today export more goods and attract more tourists from growing markets like China.

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Expansion will give Britain the vital new hub and export capacity it needs to ensure that generations to come can compete in the world.

Heathrow is the UK’s only hub airport, the UK’s biggest port by value for trade with countries outside the EU, and a cornerstone of the UK economy. Expansion will give Britain the vital new hub and export capacity it needs to ensure that generations to come can compete in the world. For passengers, expansion will deliver worldclass facilities, connections to new destinations and more flights. This will create competition and choice, making flying more accessible to people in every nation and region of the UK. The project is privately financed and will be delivered in a way that is affordable for airlines and passengers. In terms of job creation, The Airports Commission found that expansion will create up to 180,000 jobs across the country, and deliver up to £187 billion in economic benefits. The Heathrow Expansion will also create 5,000 additional apprenticeships, bringing the total to 10,000 by 2030. The planning process is a delicate one and the team have stated that they are committed to listening to the community, acting fairly, and helping local people and businesses have their say, so their neighbours can share in the economic benefits that expansion is estimated to generate. As part of the planning process they will hold comprehensive consultations, the first of which took place at the beginning of 2018.

On 25 June 2018, Parliament formally backed Heathrow expansion, with MPs voting in support of the Government’s Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS). The ANPS sets out Government policy for new airport infrastructure including support for a new north west runway at Heathrow. This is an important milestone as it allows Heathrow to proceed with applying for planning consent, subject to any legal challenges. Throughout the planning process there will be opportunities for communities and stakeholders to continue to influence and shape our proposals. This will include a public consultation which is planned in 2019. Once the NPS has been formally designated, Heathrow can now apply to the Planning Inspectorate for what is known as a Development Consent Order (DCO). The DCO will contain most of the consents and powers that we need to build and operate the third runway. The process places real importance on engagement with residents and stakeholders and there will continue to be opportunities to influence the proposals through the planning process over the coming months and years. Construction on the main works (including the runway) will begin shortly after the DCO has been granted. It is possible that some early works will take place before then. Any early works will be subject to consultation and environmental assessment as required.

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The planning process is a delicate one and the team have stated that they are committed to listening to the community, acting fairly, and helping local people and businesses have their say.

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Italian floor lap, 1stdibs.co.uk, £8k

Tropical Fever

Tropical Screen, Maisons du Monde, £83

Designer Wallpaper £180

No need to be subtle, combine blocks of statement green and bold tropical design patterns for this daring decorating trend. Bring the outside in by adding fruit and plant ornaments, wooden or rattan midcentury furniture and wild, picturesque wallpapers. Woven furnishing and murals plus large potted indoor plants are bound to give your home a dash of exotica.

Tropical cushion from Jan Constantine, Amara, £120

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Pineapple Lamp, Wayfair, £90

Almaden Talavera Tiles Wall Sticker

Frida Kahlo cushion from Jan Constantine, Amara, £145

Freda Kahlo has emerged as a cultural and design inspiration. This famous Mexican artist and her heritage have become an iconic style of Mexican Bohemia. Vivid colours of orange, red and green as well as bold graphic patterns are inherent in this theme. Monobrows and the image of Freda herself is now portrayed as undoubtedly a true pop art icon.

Home &Decor

'Frida Kahlo by Nickolas Muray' Framed Memorabilia, Wayfair, £60

Flamingo Table, Decorelo, £120

Tropical palm wall stencils, Stencils For Painting, ebay, £25

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Inject an exotic flavour into your living space. We are inspired by Latin American decor as an uplifting and exuberant interior decorating style.

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Introducing statement furnishings with distinctive prints brings a fun look to your interior spaces. Green botanical patterns or images of tropical birds reflect the striking, exotic mood.

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T H E

Adam Virgo A C A D E M Y It's all about the football

f you are an Albion fan then Adam Virgo will be a name you know of well; as much loved captain and as a player who memorably scored a 120th-minute equaliser against Swindon Town in the 2004 Division Two Play Off, which they then won through a penalty shoot out, sending the team to the final. They subsequently won to gain promotion to the second tier. Virgo is now a well-regarded TV and radio football pundit, so he knows a little thing or two about the beautiful game on the pitch and as a business. For the past 3 years when he hasn’t been researching and commenting for Sky Sports and Talk Sport, he has devoted his time to creating and growing a successful football academy; The Adam Virgo Academy (AVA). I was invited to speak with Adam to learn more about this passionate project of his. It’s a warm Wednesday evening in June, I have come to Hassocks Sports Centre to meet with Adam at one of his training sessions, to meet the team and get a taste of how they run things here. It is fair to note that I have a vested interest in this particular meet, not just as an Albion fan but also as a father of a son who already loves football and whom I wish to send to join a football academy as soon as he is of age. So the first question I posed to Adam is “What is it that differentiates AVA to other football academies?” Adam replied “I am very passionate about the Academy providing the best level of coaching in a safe, enjoyable and upbeat environment for girls and boys of all abilities, from beginners to potential professional trialists. Like any academy, the aim is to produce professional footballers. But the real emphasis will be on taking the pressure off”.

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Adam mentors players like a professional manager. Leading by example, he is present at every one of the training sessions with a hands-on approach, giving the children rare access to learn directly from an ex-professional footballer.

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Adam has put together his own dream team of qualified professionals. He has personally chosen coaches with an aptitude and personality to carry out his vision in the development of each child. Younger players are introduced to the beauty of playing football, for the game of it, concentrating more so on the attitude towards team play and the enjoyment of football. The older and more experienced players concentrate on developing their skills and mind-set to tussle with the competition and expectations that a career in the sport can present to them. At the training session energy and positive language demands the focus from each boy and girl as they run through the drills. One to one tuition ensures each boy and girl is considered for their own development needs. Adam feels strongly about players of all ages being given the support, guidance and encouragement required to build their confidence. He noted “We don’t put a child down at 8yrs old if they cant grasp a drill. Between the ages of 5-16, it’s purely about learning and enjoyment. Positive language and support builds confidence, allowing each player to learn to deal with obstacles in their personal development”. Adam mentors players like a professional manager. Leading by example, he is present at every one of the training sessions with a hands-on approach, giving the children rare access to learn directly from an exprofessional footballer. Adam regularly talks with parents too on their child’s development and progression, discussing everything from behavioural aspects to nutrition. Whilst the children took drills, Adam excuses himself and takes a walk over to one of the spectating parents where he talks to a young father about this evenings session.

Adam begins to explain “Growing up, I played football for fun. There was no pressure. No expectation. No parents bawling from the touchline. Too often these days, kids aren’t allowed to do that. A flash of talent at seven or eight and you’ve got agents sniffing around. Mums and dads pushing too hard”. His coaching team, who are all at FA 1 Level trained, install positivity and fun in every drill. They don’t run teams, creating a no pressure environment to allow the enjoyment of the game. To master any skill, time is required focusing on perfecting technique and in football, for Adam, it’s all about having as much time on the pitch as possible. This is why he runs academy sessions up to 5 times per week all over East Sussex, with more locations planned to spread across all of Sussex. With Adam’s passion and management style and seeing his coaching team in action, I can see why AVA is growing so rapidly. In-fact, Adam has now also setup an Agency to nurture the more talented players in the academy. Adam explains “Because we will have seen a boy grow up over many years and have built up a relationship with his parents along the way, they know we’ll look after him. We’ll do everything in our power to make that child a footballer. But if he doesn’t make it, there’s a safety net”. From the ages of 16-19, students at the academy can be educated for two years on a B-Tech course and even be put through coaching badges. They can either then go to university or train as a personal trainer, gym instructor or even get on a scholarship in America. I for one will certainly be sending my eldest to this academy, to learn directly from an exprofessional player and to have fun whilst doing it. It is this that installs confidence in me as a parent. The duty of care and genuine passion for teaching football for the love of the game is plain to see and a joy to watch. If you want to know more contact the team via their website www.adamvirgoacademy. com. You will be able to go to see any of the sessions for yourself and speak with Adam should you wish to before making any decision.

TOP CENTRE PHOTO, ADAM AND HIS TEAM

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Registered Charity No. 1108777 Charitable Company No. 5300691

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

OF SAVING LIVES AND SUPPORTING VULNERABLE INDIVIDUALS IN BRIGHTON & HOVE

WHAT AN INCREDIBLE JOURNEY What an incredible journey we have had these past 20 years! As a local charity our focus has always been on the City and helping those most in need living in Brighton & Hove; whether that be young people in schools, members of the homeless community living on the streets or women facing times of crisis. We have had an ever increasing passion to impact this City, to see all members of our community thriving and living life to the full. We would like to thank everyone that has partnered with us, supported and worked alongside us over the years. Together we can transform the City even further- let’s make our City the best it can be! Paul Young, Founder.

CAN YOU HELP US AS WE CONTINUE TO HELP HUNDREDS AROUND THE CITY? Make a donation www.offthefence.org.uk/get-involved/donate

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