Affinity luxury Lifestyle Magazine August 2020

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PRICELESS

www.affinitymag.co.uk AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE WWW.AFFINITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

SCANDI LIVING

Every home needs a little Nordic influence

BE INSPIRED

Gold, whether you wear it, read it or eat it, there’s enough for everyone

For Your Eyes Only ISSUE 110

It's never too late to start using an eye cream

ISSUE 110

Too Tempting

Time to maintain healthy long-term habits and curb the temptation

Live Like a Tuscan King or Queen at Castello di Vicarello

A TASTE OF SUMMER

Indulgent food to enjoy alfresco

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LETTER EDITOR’S

I think it’s safe to say we’ve all changed a lot in these last few months, whether it’s in the way we work, our relationships, family life, and heartbreakingly for some, loosing loved ones. Now as we slowly start to get back to a new kind of normality, for many their way of life will be so different, the rule book has been torn up and the world seems to have lost its balance. it’s natural to feel lost at sea – even in your own home. It’s times like these when many of us will look to food, alcohol, or other temptations to help us feel better and more comfortable.

This isn’t good for our long term mental and physical health and now more than ever it’s imperative that we maintain healthy long-term habits and curb temptations, we take a look at ways to avoid temptation during these unprecedented times (Page14).

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We’ve found the most idyllic one-of-a-kind hideaway for two situated deep in the Scottish Highlands, 57 Nord (page 52) comprising of sleek contemporary design, panoramic views over the adjoining ancient sea loch formations and the majestic Kintail Mountains – all in blissful isolation for those who have found life in lockdown rather pleasant.

We love the Summer it’s a time when we all make the most of outside living, it’s when we decide to pour ourselves a chilled glass of wine and just enjoy. It’s an extension of our indoor living space, and most of our dining is done alfresco, we have some great recipes (page 36) and rosė wines (page 39) that are perfect to serve to family and friends this summertime.

Take Care & Stay Safe

Jane x

3 4 5

1. Essential Body Essence, £75, www.slowageing.co.uk 2. Belgo Jar Lantern, £29.95, www.blossomandbuttercup.co.uk 3. Flamingo Jumper, £49.50, Oliver Bonas 4. Block Heel Sandal, £185, www.santewade.com 5. Perfume Clutch, £12.99, TK Maxx Don’t forget to join us on social media, we love getting to know you!

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Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 07507 602401 Advertising: Stewart Hedges affinitymagstewart@gmail.com 07595 894557 Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita dave@affinitymag.co.uk

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All adverts are printed in good faith. Affinity cannot take responsibility for the content of adverts. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are accurate. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

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Contents 58

36

Affinity

July 2020

10 16 19 24 26 31 34 42 46 54 58 62

Creating Your Manifesto For your Eyes Only Hot Picks Golden Age White Wash The Long Game Foodie News Scandi Style Salad Days Tranquility in Tuscany Living La Dolce Vita Weekend Starts Here

26

On The Cover Phoebe Grace

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Creating Your Manifesto I guess the time we hear the word manifesto is when it is coming up to elections. The word means ‘a public declaration of policy and aims’ (Oxford dictionary of English).

It is actually all about setting some specific intentions, what you will do, achieve and embedded in that will be your values, what you think of as important. So perhaps it is an idea we can borrow and put to good use in our individual lives.

Now everyone will have one that is slightly different we may hold slightly different values have slightly different things that are important to us or that we want to achieve but I’ve put below a few ideas for areas you might want to think about when putting together you own manifesto.

Define what matters The term values can leave many people wondering how it applies to your personal lives but really values are what we see as valuable, what matters, what we care about. Is it important to you to tell the truth, to be honest, to be kind?

Some of you might think they are the same for everyone but if we look around sadly there is plenty of evidence that is not the case. Everyone has their own moral and ethical code and they will ‘inform’ your values. It wouldn’t be fair to say there are no rights and wrongs as clearly there are BUT in terms of defining you own values just grab a sheet of paper and start thinking about what matters to you – where are your lines, what sort of things would make you feel uncomfortable?

Identify Priorities Values will tend to stay more or less the same over time, but priorities may change immensely depending on personal situations and the wider context you find yourself in. For many staying healthy has become a priority over recent months in a way in may not have been before.

In terms of family there are times when they may become a priority as we may become aware that we need to support particular members. Similarly, there are times when our job or career may be particularly important, whether that is studying, working for a promotion, or even getting a business going (or keeping it going during our recent times)!

Whatever situation you find yourself currently, take a moment to think about what is really important to you right now. Sometimes we can get sucked into doing all sorts

of things that seem sensible but actually don’t really reflect our priorities.

Go with the ‘Givens’ While we are all individuals with our own values and priorities there are certain ‘givens’ which can never be ignored. Often, they are reflected in our mindset and when we get that right our lives can really start to change and be fulfilling in ways they perhaps haven’t before. One of those givens is self-care. Whatever situation you find yourself in it is important (not indulgent) to care for yourself, to look after both your physical and mental wellbeing. Part of that means carving out some times each day to do things that keep us well. That is much more likely to happen when we have a mindset that supports us – as in believing that we matter, our needs are important too! Unless that belief is in place you will always find that your needs come bottom of the pile and that will have negative consequences.

Another given for me is that my happiness is important because my mindset says I deserve to be happy – which sometimes means making tough decision about what I do, sometimes not doing what others might expect me to, and sometimes saying ‘no’.

Be open to change Life is not static. We change, people around us change and the world changes. Some people love change, actively look for it and almost feel bored if they get comfortable, for others change can be a huge challenge. But whatever our personality being able to change and adapt is vital for a fulfilled happy life. Often one of the things that can make change difficult is fear of the future and one of the great antidotes to fear is being able to calm ourselves and say as in the moment and present as we can – here we are right back at self-care.

Be Positive Somethings in life we can’t choose. Some things happen and we wished they didn’t. Life is not always fair. But what we can always choose is how we react to those situations.

We can choose our response we can decide to focus on the positive not in a blinkered way but in a way that says yes there may be sadness, frustration, anger or whatever else but each day we can make a conscious choice to focus on the positive.

If you’ d like a daily dose of positivity join the facebook group All About You www.facebook.com/groups/AAYGroup

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BEAUTY UPDATES

Helping Hand With an unprecedented increase in demand for hand soaps, Green People has responded with the launch of a new scent free hand care duo with their new limited edition Everyday Hand Wash (£10) and Hand Cream (£15), free from fragrance and unnecessary extras, just natural ingredients to keep hands clean, soft and germ free, available exclusively from www.greenpeople.co.uk

Gorgeous Glow St Moriz Express Tan Foaming Water (£10.99, Boots) is one of the best tans we’ve tried. It starts to develop after just one hour and can be left on the skin until you reach your desired shade. Once rinsed off, it continues to develop, leaving you with a gorgeous glow, just because travel is restricted at the moment it doesn’t mean our tan has to be too!

Lipstick Fever

The latest fragrance ‘Lipstick Fever’ from Juliette Has A Gun (from £85) is launching in Harvey Nichols this September. Inspired by a slick of lipstick, Lipstick Fever naturally focuses on the historic notes used in lipsticks : Iris, Violet absolute and Raspberry.

Enhanced with woody notes (Patchouli, Cedarwood) to give it a little refinement and to echo the leather of the handbag so often inseparable from it. A contemporary composition, gourmand, ultimately feminine.

Body Brushing From aiding blood circulation, relieving poor digestion to improving the appearance of cellulite, body brushing is the most effective way to tone and smooth and allow our bodies to rejuvenate and run more efficiently. British brand Kent Brushes has a gorgeous beech wood dry body brush made with natural bristles that is perfect for a little brushing, priced at £19.80 the brush is available from www.kentbrushes.com the one thing we all need in our bathrooms.

Bare All Keep it soft with these beautifully collated neutral shades from Barry M. Designed to suit all skin tones, Bare It All eyeshadow palette (£7.99, Superdrug) boasts 9 effortlessly wearable shimmer and matte shadows for infinite possibilities.

Made from sustainable card, with the mirror and magnets removed means that your palette is recyclable after use!

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Ways to Avoid Temptation

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When the rule book gets torn up and the world seems to lose all balance, it’s natural to feel lost at sea – even in your own home. It’s times like these when we look to food, alcohol, or other temptations to help us feel better and more comfortable. But to get through these uncertain times, it’s more important than ever that we maintain healthy long-term habits and curb the temptation.

The International Authority for Professional Coaching & Mentoring’s director Dawn Ann Campbell shares with us ways to avoid temptation while in self isolation.

Create a new routine It’s perfectly natural that you’ll want to stay in bed a bit longer, and maybe you’re tempted to stay in your PJs for a day or two, but don’t let it get out of hand whereby you’re living out of your bedroom! Stick to your normal routine as much as possible. That means getting up at normal times, get showered and dressed in daytime clothes, eat meals at normal times, and make time for all those exercise and hobbies that you’ve never had time for before. Doing so will provide you with a structure and a sense of purpose. That way you’ll feel less tempted to develop unhelpful behaviours and bad habits during this challenging period.

Accept the situation Losing control of your destiny is a hard pill to swallow and can send your mood spiralling. But the sooner you choose to accept that you have no control of anything except your own reactions, the better. Taking back control of how you feel, what you do and think, and how you spend your time will help you avoid finding comfort by less helpful means.

Don’t be too hard on yourself No-one is perfect despite what you see and read on social media. Don’t be fooled by anyone, or try and copy anyone else, just do what works for you and when you don’t achieve what you wanted to achieve, don’t be too tough on yourself, just aim for a better tomorrow. It’s about not getting into the habit of rewarding or punishing yourself with food or other stimulants either, just enjoy them in moderation as you normally do.

Share your worries It’s good to talk – if you’re concerned about how you’re feeling, talk it out. You might not be able to see a close friend or family member in person, but a video call or just a message will be enough to help you get things off your chest and help you think more clearly. If you sense your mood is spiralling downwards, catch it before it crashes, ring for professional help from a coach, a mentor, a counsellor, or a therapist, and don’t forget in the event this lockdown is just too much for you, then please call the Samaritans in total confidence, you are not alone!

Lend a helping hand If you’re able to, become a volunteer. What a wonderful legacy to say you that you were there and did some good in this challenging period! You might be able to bring light and hope to someone else in self-isolation with a phone call, or by doing a good deal, getting someone’s shopping or prescription assuming you’re allowed out, it’s all about making good use of your time and if you’re someone who cannot work, then find other ways to use your time effectively.

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Elemis Pr0-Collagen Eye Revive Mask, £55, www.elemis.com

Clarins Super Restorative Total Eye Concentrate, £57, Debenhams

For Your Eyes Only

To use an eye cream, or not to use and eye cream? That is the question. Some say you could save money and just use a small amount of your normal moisturiser. But skincare specialists argue that the delicate skin around our eyes is between 10 and 40 percent thinner than the skin on the rest of our face, which means you need to treat it with the care and attention it needs by investing in a good eye cream, we’ve rounded up some of our favourites.

Body Shop Oilsv of Life Eye Cream Gel, £20, The Body Shop

Dr Dennis Gross Ferulic + Retinol Eye Serum, £68, Selfridges

Origins GinZing Eye Cream, £23, Look Fantastic

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum, £70, www.murad.co.uk

ESPA Tri-Active Lift & Firm Eye Moisturiser, £45, ESPA

Dermalogica Biolumin-C Eye Cream, £63, Feel Unique

Estee Lauder Advanced Time Zone Eye Cream, £49, John Lewis

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Midlife Madness As its summer our gardens often assume a new level of importance, especially in the situation we find ourselves in at the moment. In summer we spend a lot more time in them, especially as many of us may not be going away for holiday – yes, it is a very sore point so I’m not going to dwell on it.

Summertime is when we look to gardens if we are lucky enough to have them, to provide a space for entertaining, barbequing and for a lucky few perhaps enjoying pools or hot tubs! I enjoy a coffee outdoors or a glass of wine, dinner when its warm enough and even a brekkie outdoors which always makes me feel like I’m on holiday.

Then of course there is the pleasure of growing things. I always enjoy planting a few tubs and baskets with colourful bedding plants but as we figured we were likely to be at home more than we usually would be, it seemed the ideal year sort of spread our horticultural wings.

So, we planted a whole range of stuff as well as the usual bedding plants. Some results have been very pleasing but there have also been some unexpected consequences, a few things that have left us scratching our heads, and one that means I now worry every time I set foot in the garden.

Let’s start with the herbs – we do grow them every year, in pots just outside out patio door – they look pretty and in cooking you simply can’t beat fresh herbs. Our favourites are Rosemary, oregano, basil and coriander, but we do also grow sage and parsley (given up on mint as it seems to take over every other pot within a 3-foot radius). But why is that the ones we like the best never seem to be as successful as the ones we could kind of take or leave. We are among the sometimes regarded as weird group of people who actually love coriander which really struggles to grow and are not so keen on parsley which

would be worthy of a prize at a local show! They are in the same position have similar ‘needs’ met in similar ways, so maybe it’s just some weird gardening law.

Then there are the lettuces, various varieties and all have done well so we are eating a lot of salads – shame you can’t freeze lettuce – at the rate we are eating it we’ll resemble bunnies soon! We tried mangetout and I must say that was very successful though not as prolific as we’d have liked but the pleasure of eating what you have grown is immense – even if it is a tiny portion.

We also have an unexpected lawn as the birds, sparrows are main culprits scatter seeds onto to our gravel area and it is now resembling a meadow – and I thought I was an untidy eater!

But the cause of greatest consternation is the cherry tomato plant. It met with a nasty accident with a basketball (yes, I blame grandson in part at least) in its infancy so we were very careful with it after that, moving to avoid high winds, or places where there was a risk of basketball damage!! But to say it has recovered is an understatement. Hubby has taken it’s wellbeing to heart – well he was the one encouraging grandson to play basketball! So, it is moved frequently, tended diligently and now guarded by this strange looking contraption of strings, knots and net, apparently to protect its large foliage from falling over -too big for its boots, okay pot, or what!

We have yet to see if it will deliver tomatoes (lots of tiny green ones so there is a lot of hope but whenever I go out I have to check where it is – he still seems to keep moving it, it is enormous and still growing and I can confess to a slightly overactive imagination so all I’m saying is if anything untoward happens to me check out the tomato plant!! Really I think it is a triffid!

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Patterned Throw, £35, Marks & Spencer

Beefeater London Dry Gin, £18.45, Major Supermarkets

AFFINITY HOT PICKS

Glass Stand Candle Holder, £44.99, www.blossomandbuttercup.co.uk

Hotel Chocolat Summer Picnic Collection, £25, www.hotelchocolat.com

Foaming Soap, £2, Superdrug

Jo MalonePear & Freesia Body & Hand Wash, £52, www.jomalone.co.uk

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Large Black Lantern, £58.95, www.blossomandbuttercup.co.uk

Taskmaster Game, £24.99, Amazon

Scallop Sunglasses, £17.50, Marks & Spencer

Sea Glass Necklace, £45, www.skagen.com

Red Midi Check Dress, £35, Accessorize

Shell Bracelet, POA, Next

Ted Baker Dream Journal, £25, Wild & Wolf

Fossil Watch, £119. www.fossil.com

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Protect Yourself

During Garden Sunshine With long range weather reporting a 30-degree heatwave during the last week of July and August make sure you protect yourself while enjoying the sun in the garden.

Life is all about the simple things, such as spending a sunny afternoon in the garden with an iced coffee in hand. That said, it’s important to know how to protect yourself while enjoying the warm weather in the garden. With safety risks associated with pools and barbeques, as well as the possibility of getting sunburnt being a big concern, there are a few precautions you need to take:

Wear SPF Lying out in the sun for too long and without adequate protection can be dangerous. Too much sun exposure is a big risk factor for skin cancer, which is why wearing SPF is an important way to protect yourself while enjoying the warm weather in the garden. We need to spend some time in the sun to get vitamin D, however, make sure to wear suncream, and re-apply it regularly.

The rule of thumb is to apply sunscreen half an hour before going outside and then reapplying it every two hours. This

time frame applies regardless of whether you wear factor 50 or 15. There’s an urban myth that these numbers represent how long they last before you need to put on more, for example, factor 50 lasts 5 hours, but this isn’t true. These numbers are an indicator of how much UV rays they can block out. SPF 15 can block out 93% of UVB rays while SPF 50 blocks out 98%. Most people opt for SPF 30 which blocks out 97% of UVB rays.

If you sweat a lot or have a pool, then you need to reapply sunscreen more often.

Spend time in the shade Sitting in the sun all day is a big factor in developing heatstroke. If you’re feeling a bit too hot, sit in the shade or put up a parasol to block out the sun. You still need to wear sunscreen if you’re sitting under an umbrella as some UV rays can actually penetrate through fabric, and bounce off surfaces.

Children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses in particular need to spend the most time in the shade. Make sure to keep an eye on vulnerable people for signs of heat

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store. Some of the symptoms of heatstroke are: sweating, pale clammy skin, headaches, disorientation, and nausea.

Stay hydrated Making sure to stay hydrated is one of the most practical ways to protect yourself while enjoying the warm weather in the garden.

As we sweat more when it’s hot, we need to replace the fluids lost. While water is the best option, iced-tea is just as hydrating and refreshing. In general, we should drink around two liters of water a day, but the more you sweat, the more fluids you need to replace, so if you find yourself thirstier than usual it’s okay to drink more water than usual. If you’re drinking alcoholic drinks, make sure to have a glass of water in between drinks as alcohol is a diuretic, and will dehydrate you even more.

You can leave an icebox next to your sun lounger, and you don’t even need to sit up to have a drink. You can choose a drinks trolley that is both stylish and practical for any al-fresco occasion and includes a built-in drinks cooler, or go with an integrated armrest drink cooler.

Take safety precautions with the BBQ

One of the most important summer garden safety tips is regarding your barbeque. Having a family barbeque is a great way to spend some time in the garden, but it doesn’t come without risk.

If you’re having a back garden barbeque, make sure to keep it at least 10 feet away from your house or shed. Never leave the grill unattended, and keep outdoor decor and plants away from the grill too. Make sure to clean the BBQ regularly and to check for gas leaks before use. In case of emergency, keep a fire extinguisher and a spray bottle of water within reach.

It’s also just as important to clean the grill before use and make sure all food is cooked thoroughly before eating chicken, in particular. To err on the side of caution, you can cook some meats in the oven first and then sizzle them on the grill for a few minutes to give them that smokey BBQ flavor everyone loves.

Mind your feet If you’ve been lying out in the sun for a while and want to walk back into the house, you might notice that your feet get burnt from the hot concrete. If you’re in the garden

barefoot to sunbathe, a good way to avoid burning your feet is to keep a pair of flip flops underneath your sunlounger or in the shade so you can put them on before getting up.

Cover up Unless there’s a particularly severe heatwave exceeding 30°C, it’s still possible to venture outdoors during the hottest part of the day, as long as you take adequate precautions. Chief among those should be protecting your head, since it can quickly overheat and cause sunstroke, nausea or dizziness. A wide-brimmed sun hat is the ideal head covering for the hotter months to keep you safe and shaded outside.

There’s also the temptation to strip off as soon as the thermometer rises above 20°C. Again, this is not ideal for your skin, so wearing loose, long-sleeved shirts and light cotton trousers is the best course of action when you’re planning your outfit for time outdoors. Light colours are better for time in the sun too, as they reflect heat rather than soaking it up.

Use insect repellent One of the less pleasant things about summer is the abundance of flying insects everywhere. To avoid bites, put on insect repellent before going outside.

If you’re leaving a window or the backdoor open, you might want to cover them with a screen so nothing flies into the house.

Don’t leave the pool unattended The fact that you have to wait 30 minutes after eating to swim is actually a myth. It was believed that after eating, blood is diverted away from your limbs and into the digestive tract, and that the less blood in your arms and legs there is, the bigger risk of drowning. While this is partially true, it shouldn’t actually affect you so much that you’ll drown. That said, you still might want to wait for a little after eating before swimming in case you get cramps.

A bigger concern with summer safety if you have a pool is leaving it unattended if you have children or pets. You can cover the pool with a pool cover when it’s not in use. Unlike a commercial pool, you have to act as your own lifeguard which means not exerting yourself too hard or pushing yourself into the deep-end if you’re not a confident swimmer.

Wear gloves when gardening Your garden might be in full bloom in summer and require some maintenance work. It’s important to wear thick appropriate gardening gloves, especially when using the likes of hedge clippers or sharp shovels. These will protect you from accidentally cutting yourself, but also from tetanus. As the Clostridium Tetani bacteria live in the soil, it can make its way into your body through small cuts and scratches.

Another aspect of this summer safety tip is to make sure you're up to date with your tetanus shot, which should be boosted every 10 years. www.modafurnishings.co.uk

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The

Golden Age

Everyone needs a little gold in their lives, whether you wear it, read it or eat it, there’s enough for everyone.

Thomas Sabo Gold Leaf Necklace, £279, www.thomassabo.com

Textured Gold Hoops, £24, Oliver Bonas

Christian Louboutin Velvet Matte Lipstick, £70, Selfridges

Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lift Regenerating Creme Gelee, £225, John Lewis

Cut Out Bag, £68, Dune London

Hammered Gold Candle, £5, Primark The Thunder Girls Paperback, £6.55, Amazon

Gold Leather Sandals, £85, Dune London

Gold Photo Frame, £9.99, Homesense

Godiva Gold Wrapped Ballotin, £47.50, Godiva Chocolates

AMOUAGE Gold Woman Eau De Parfum, £280, Selfridges

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FASHION

Marks & Spencer

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white wash

There's something about an all-white ensemble that keeps things simple, yet chic, and is an easy way to look fresh all season long.

Flower Earrings, £15, Topshop

Broderie Dress, £39.99, Bon Prix

Primark

Lace Top, £55, Oliver Bonas

Knitted Tank Top, £45, Oliver Bonas

Skirt, £65, Kayaturello

Linen Jumpsuit, £35, Dorothy Perkins

Off Shoulder Blouse, £27.99, Bon Prix Linen Shirt, £32, Wallis

Strap Sliders, £27.50, Accessorize

Laser Cut Bag, £27.99, Bon Prix

Strappy Midi Dress, £15, Primark

Ribbed Trousers, £25, Miss Selfridge

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Basket Bag Beauty Head out and add a little rustic style to any outfit with one of these straw bags

Half Moon Straw Bag, £20, Dorothy Perkins

Shell Straw Bag, £40, Accessorize

Straw Tassel Bag, £8, Primark

Round Straw Bag, £22.99, Quiz

Half Moon Straw Bag, £30, Cotton Traders

Floral Embroidered Straw Bag, £45, Monsoon

Straw Large Bag, £32, Dorothy Perkins

Straw Bag, £85, Dune London

Straw Shopper Bag, £24.99, Bon Prix

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Get Shirty

A shirt is a style classic. Dress with jeans for a casual look, or team with a skirt and heels for workwear.

Black and White Animal Shirt, £29.99, Topshop

Leaf Print Shirt, £45, John Lewis

Yellow Stripe Shirt, £16, TU Clothing

Seraphina

Khaki Shirt, £16, F&F

Cream Shirt, £59, White Stuff

NRBY Silk Shirt, £150, John Lewis

Silk Shirt, £140, Pure Collection

Spot Shirt, £69, Mint Velvet Cream Spot Shirt, £79, Mint Velvet

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Dungaree Dreams From practical to fashionable, dungarees are the wardrobe staple of the moment. With styles that range from practical workwear to highfashion designs, there’s a shape and style to suit everyone

Front Pocket Dungarees, £25.99, Pull & Bear Black Denim Dungarees, £50, Joe Browns

Blue & White Stripe Dungarees, £24, TU Clothing

Dot Dungarees, £40, Accessorize Denim Dungarees, £59.95, White Stuff Button Dungarees, £65, Marks & Spencer

Miss Selfridge

Mono Check Dungarees, £129, John Lewis

Lilac Denim Dungarees, £16, Boohoo Gingham Dungarees, £18, Matalan

Spot Dungarees, £39, Miss Selfridge

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The Long Game A floaty maxi skirt is so chic and elegant and is the ideal choice for a sunny summer day

Animal Print Maxi Skirt, £35, Roman Originals Ditsy Print Maxi Skirt, £36, Glamorous Floral Maxi Skirt, £35, Marks & Spencer

Denim Maxi Skirt, £55, Monsoon

Navy Skirt, £30, Roman Originals

Debenhams

Printed Maxi Skirt, £40, Joe Browns

Long Blue Pleated Skirt, £99.99, TK Maxx

Rainbow Maxi Skirt, £155, Fresha London

Linen Blend Maxi Skirt, £70, French Connection

blue cotton maxi skirt, £50, Debenhams

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food & drink

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FOODIE NEWS Bring Home the Cocktails

Sea Change Rosé

Eco-conscious wine brand Sea Change has launched its first premium wine, a refreshing, crisp and light Provence Rosé.

From the awardwinning Chateau Pigoudet in the heart of Southern France, the brand new Provence Rosé is fresh and zesty with delicate hints of grapefruit, white peach and tropical pineapple. Perfect for those warm Autumnal evenings and accompanying seafood dishes.

As with all Sea Change wines sold, the brand makes a donation to marine conservation charities to fight plastic pollution with every bottle sold, with minimal packaging and no plastics used on the bottle and closure. You'll feel like you're making a difference with every crisp glass!

The new Provence Rosé and the Sea Change wine collection is available to buy online at www.seachangewine.com with the Provence Rosé at £15.99 or £13.99 for a mix of six or you can buy the Provence Pack comprising 3 bottles for £42.97.

This summer, Haig Club, and award-winning Scottish Restauranteur & Butcher Mac & Wild are bringing the bar to people’s front doors with the launch of its first limited-edition Cocktail Minibar.

Whether it’s sipping summer cocktails on the balcony or rummaging through the at-home allotment for a garnish, each cocktail comes with its own personality to suit every occasion.

Available now for £25, the Cocktail Minibar features four delicious mini whisky cocktails, Spiced Up Old Fashioned, Brew it Like a Scotsman, Highland Fruit Cup and Bonnie Spritz all available for delivery via Mac & Wild’s new at home cocktail delivery service, as well as Amazon Prime, Whisky Exchange and Master of Malt.

Chocoholic Mini Treats

Perfect your picnic with a chocolaty treat from Cadbury Minibites. With four indulgent treats to choose from, including cookies, bite-sized cornflake clusters or flapjacks, they’re perfect for a family day out, or a socially distanced picnic with friends. Available for £2.00 each from leading supermarkets.

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Super Greens Egg Fried Rice “This super simple egg fried rice contains 2 of your 5 a day and is a real weeknight saviour”

Ingredients

125g brown basmati rice Vegetable oil 2 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced 1 thumb sized piece fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped 10g fresh coriander, leaves picked and stalks chopped 75g tenderstem broccoli, stalks sliced and tips kept whole 75g baby sweet corn, halves 75g spring greens, washed and shredded 4 spring onions, trimmed and sliced 3 Clarence Court hens eggs, beaten Reduced salt soya sauce Sesame oil 1⁄2 lime

Method Cook the rice according to the packet instructions. Transfer to a sieve, run under cold water and place to one side.

Alternatively use one pack of microwave ready to cook rice and there will be no need to precook.

Place a large frying pan on a medium heat, add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil followed by the garlic, ginger and coriander stalks. Stir fry for 1 minute then add the broccoli and baby corn and stir fry for a further 4 minutes. Add the spring greens, spring onions and rice then continue cooking for another 4 minutes. Move all of the vegetable rice over to one side of the pan. Add 1⁄2 tablespoon soya sauce to the eggs then tip the egg mix into the empty side of the pan. Scramble to your liking then toss together with the rice.

Sprinkle over a little sesame oil, scatter over the coriander leaves and serve with wedges of lime.

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Courgette, Feta and Mint Fritters “An easy mid-week meal to feed the family�

Ingredients

2 courgettes 1 Clarence Court Burford Brown egg 2 tablespoons self-raising flour 70g feta 2 spring onions, sliced 1 teaspoon cumin Zest of 1 lime A handful of chopped mint Vegetable oil 2 tablespoons sour cream 2 teaspoons mint sauce Fresh herbs such as chives and garlic cress to garnish

Method

Grate the courgettes using a box grater, season well with salt and set in a sieve over a bowl for 10 minutes to drain the excess water.

Squeeze the courgette and add to a bowl along with the egg, flour, feta, spring onions, cumin, lime zest and mint.

Stir well to combine.

Using two tablespoons quenelle the mixture to form small rugby ball shaped fritters. Gently fry in hot oil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown then pop into the oven, heated at 180C for ten minutes.

Spread the sour cream over a serving plate and drizzle with the mint sauce. Place the fritters on top and garnish with some fresh herbs.

Recipe from, Nicola Millbank

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Cherry and Raspberry Bakewell Tart “Sweet, almond frangipane and a lightly fragrant and sour jammy layer brought together in a crisp pastry case”

Ingredients 500g pack shortcrust pastry 240g unsalted butter, softened 240g golden caster sugar 3 medium Clarence Court Hens eggs 300g ground almonds 2 tablespoons plain flour 2 teaspoons almond extract 1⁄2 370g jar Bonne Maman Berries and Cherries Conserve 1⁄2 230g jar Fabbri Amarena Cherries in syrup (drained) A handful fresh raspberries (optional) 4 tablespoons flaked almonds 2 tablespoon icing sugar Fresh berries to serve

Method Roll out the pastry to 3mm thick and use to line a 25cm non-stick, loose bottomed tart tin. Leave a little overhang to allow for shrinkage. Prick the base and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.

Pre-heat the oven to 180c/ 350f/ gas mark 4. Blind bake the pastry case for 15 minutes. Remove the baking beans and return to the oven for a further 10 minutes until golden. Allow to cool then trim the edges.

Place the butter and sugar in the bowl of a freestanding mixer and whip to a light paste. Add the eggs, ground almonds, plain flour and almond extract and mix again to a smooth frangipane. Place to one side.

Spoon the conserve into the tart case and smooth into one layer. Scatter over the cherries and raspberries (if using.) Pour in the frangipane and smooth over with a spoon. Scatter over half the flaked almonds and bake in the oven for about 45 minutes or until golden and risen.

Toast the remaining almonds and place to one side.

Remove the tart from the oven and place on a cooling rack. Allow to cool for a few minutes in the tin then remove from the tin and allow to cool completely.

When ready to serve scatter over the berries, toasted almonds and sieve over a little icing sugar. Serve with cream and a little extra conserve if you like.

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Summertime Rosé “Nothing beats a glass of chilled roséas the sun sets and the heat of the day disperses, we love this selection from Aldi”

French Béziers Rosé The vineyard for this wine is located in Western Languedoc, on the Mediterranean Coast. Morning breezes bring humidity in off the sea and keep the vines hydrated during the hot summer months. Elegant wild strawberries, ripe cherries and citrus fruits, perfect for BBQ's, summer salads and fish £7.49

French Ventoux Rosé A well-balanced, flesh-pink wine thats fresh and lively. Full of berry fruit flavours with hints of red fruits on the nose complemented by aromas of spicy notes. Easy drinking and perfect for summer £6.99

Cap d'Agde Rosé A beautiful pale pink colour rosé, thats intense and fresh with beautiful fruit and pepper aromas.

Always serve chilled for on the palate flavours of fresh peach, grapefruit and a citrus zest.

Great as an aperitif or with a mixed salad or asian dishes. £5.49

Luberon Rosé Magnum This bright rosé has delicate aromas of rose and morello cherries, which complement its fruity notes of grapefruit, red berry and melon. Its mineral finish adds an elegant and refreshing finish, ideal for keeping temperatures low! £11.99

Coteaux Varois-en-Provence Rosé Crafted in the heart of Provence, this dry rosé displays elegantly delicate layers of strawberry, red cherry and raspberry flavours with a delicate note of herbs. Perfect as an aperitif, it also airs excellently with fish, grilled meat and vegetables. £6.49

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interiors

Alaskan Oak & Talpa by Daval

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Scandi

Scandinavian interiors are a balance of functionality and aesthetics. Although simple in design, clean lines are often incorporated with understated elegance and warm, which creates a cosy homely feel.

style

Tassel Edge Throw, £19, Amarara

Natural Oak Desk, £199, Danetti

Large Wicker Bulbous Lantern, £34.50, www.blossomandbuttercup.co.uk

Pull Floor Lamp, £425, Nest

Ceramic Plant Holder, £9.99, M&Co

Round Ceramic-Lattice Lantern, £15, www.blossomandbuttercup.co.uk

Set Baskets, £105, Cult Furniture cultfurniture

Nordic Lantern, £30, www.blossomandbuttercup.co.uk

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Merino Wool Blanket, £199, Amara

Armchair, £358, Cuckooland

Mirror, £35.72, www.sklum.com

Coffee Table, £165, Nest Cupboard, £2,344, www.nest.co.uk

Bedside Draws, £229, Swoon Editions k

Large Wicker Heart, £40, www.blossomandbuttercup.co.uk

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Salad Days

Whether it’s a deliciously simple salad of lemon-drenched rocket with a few shavings of parmesan; a transporting Greek salad or a gossamer-light sweet medley, when it comes to salad, the serving bowl can be utterly transformative to the food.

Blue Salad Bowl, £20, Rex

Tropical Salad Bowl, £21, Amara

Garden Trading Midford Serving Bowl Medium Grey Salad Bowl, £40, Abode Living

Strawberry Salad Bowl, £59.95, Emma Bridgewater

Large Wooden Salad Bowl, £32, Garden Trading Blue Salad Bowl, £10, Very

Portmeirion Sunflower Salad Bowl, £50.98, Wayfair Black & Gold Serving Bowl, £25, John Lewis

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Aug20.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 27/07/2020 21:18 Page 46

Fry’s Footie Corner I think for everyone that works in football, particularly those in League One, League Two and below that have not had any action since March, the announcement that the new season will start on September 12th was warmly welcomed.

For me, as someone that has worked in the game for as long as I have, September 12th is my Christmas Day! I can’t wait. At Peterborough United, the players have been back in training and we are preparing the squad as best we can in the conditions that we have available, ready for that return date.

It has been an incredibly frustrating time, particularly given the fact that we have had to sit back and watch the Premier League and Championship come to a conclusion in the right way, on the field. I think everyone knew that Liverpool would lift the trophy before Lockdown, but they have now completed the job and credit to Jurgen Klopp and his staff, they have been the best throughout the campaign.

Manchester United and Chelsea followed the top two into the Champions League and both Ole and Frank deserve a lot of credit because they have both come from nowhere to secure those spots at the expense of Leicester City who struggled with injuries and the size of their squad.

At the bottom, Norwich City, Watford and Bournemouth were relegated and they will find it tough to bounce straight back. Watford made some baffling decisions including sacking Nigel Pearson with two games to go, while Eddie Howe has done extremely well to keep the Cherries at the top for so long against all the odds.

West Bromwich Albion have bounced into the Premier League and back again quite a lot over the past two decades but they held their nerve as Brentford faltered. Leeds United are back in the Premier League and I think everyone welcomes what they can both on and off the pitch.

It has been a really challenging time for everyone in the world and I wanted to finish this column by thanking all of the key workers that have kept the country going, from nurses and doctors, to supermarket workers and delivery men and women.

I never thought I would live through a global pandemic. It tests you all, however you’ve been affected by it, I hope you are safe and healthy and like me can look forward in the hope that we can get back to some kind of normality as soon as we possibly can.

Barry Fry

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Pink Power Who says men can’t wear pink? It’s the perfect colour for a stylish casual look for a summer garden party.

£10, Primark

£11.99, M&Co

£85, Ralph Lauren .jpeg Primark

£89, Ted Baker £24, Mantaray Debenhams

£25, Debenhams

£89, Ted Baker £28, Debenhams

£24, Mantaray Debenhams

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TRAVEL

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Perfect Isolation Introducing 57 Nord, a remote hideaway in The Scottish Highlands

57Nord ,a one-of-a-kind hideaway for two situated deep in the Scottish Highlands, comprising sleek contemporary design and interiors that honour the region's Scandi-Gaelic heritage, panoramic views over the adjoining ancient sea loch formations and the majestic Kintail Mountains - and blissful isolation for those who have found life in lockdown rather pleasant.

Stays are largely elemental, governed by the everchanging weather in Britain's outermost environment, much like the famed landscape of our neighbouring country, Iceland. Here, luxury is in the rituals of a protracted morning coffee, watching the sun go down over behind the Eilean Donan Castle and cooking fresh crayfish on an open fire.

The property, set at the junction of three ancient sea lochs, is designed to emulate the traditional Scottish crofter’s dwelling, while the interior resembles a combination of contemporary Scandinavian hygge and artisanal Scottish details that celebrate the region's unique, Norse-Gaelic heritage. Floor to ceiling windows frame the panoramic views of Loch Duich, Eilean Donan Castle and the Kintail Mountains where guests are compelled to feel the calming effects of the natural elements. Luxuries here focus on life's rituals, from the ceremonious first freshly ground morning coffee to the theatre of freshly caught crayfish cooked on an open fire delivered by Duncan, the property's friendly local fisherman.

Fine international amenities accompany the startling location. Guests enjoy a hamper of fresh artisanal goods on arrival including the modern essentials, from expertly baked sourdough to the finest Scottish smoked salmon and local cheeses - the small hamlet within walking distance ensures supplies are kept in abundance. An honesty bar further confirms there is no need to seek civilisation, comprising a selection of internationally celebrated wines and local peated whiskey. There are a number of acclaimed distilleries in the area and restaurants serving world-class cuisine should guests choose to explore, otherwise the option to have their own chef deliver fine dining at home.

Guests are propelled to find solace in the wild landscapes of Scotland's western coastline, where mountains descend into lochs that feed the North Atlantic Ocean, explore either on wheels, by boat or on foot. The hairpin bends of the North Coast 500 take guests on an otherworldly tour to the UK's most remote peninsula.

The property is remote but easily accessible, two hours from Inverness International Airport and 1.5 hours from Fort William for the Caledonian Sleeper. Governed by the elements, the summer months see up to 18 hours of daylight and winter, the thrill of moody skies and open fires.

For more information or to book., visit: www.57nord.co.uk

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Live Like a

Tuscan King or Queen

The exquisite nine suite luxury hotel and vineyard, Castello di Vicarello, in the heart of Tuscany, is giving their guests the opportunity to enjoy all the luxuries of a fivestar hotel with the feel of a private residence.

Despite modern amenities, you will feel like you’ve stepped back in time, eating in dining rooms with exposed wood ceiling beams, stone walls and cosy leather club chairs.

When hiring the hotel exclusively, your stay includes daily breakfast, beverages, restaurant service, a cocktail bar, housekeeping and a various range of activities. Spend your days getting a taste of the Tuscan country lifestyle by hiking around the private land, learning about the awardwinning wine produced on the estate, enjoying a massage at the al-fresco spa or a cooking class in the famous kitchen of Castello di Vicarello with the estate owners mama! The kitchen serves local specialties from the two kitchens or from the barbecue in the al-fresco dining area.

Dine under the stars or while watching the sunset from the rooftop terrace. Stretch out on a lounger by one of the two pools and simply unwind—the choice is yours.

The estate itself offers the opportunity to learn about local produce in the kitchen gardens, take a course in the medieval kitchen or even help with the grape and olive harvests, giving you a sense of the rhythm of Tuscan life.

If you can’t get enough of the region, it’s a 90-minute drive or less to the city of Siena and several beaches on the Mediterranean shore.

Immerse yourself in the Maremman countryside at one of the region’s most beautiful and secluded hotels, Castello di Vicarello. This luxury ‘castle’ affords the amenities of a luxury hotel with the private feel of a residence. Nine suites, 40 hectares of grounds and attentive staff make this historic estate the perfect setting for a family reunion, a once-in-a-lifetime holiday with friends or an intimate destination for a small group of friends to re-group.

Though this property dates back to the 11th century, its charming architecture has been given modern updates such as surround sound in all communal and private areas, Wi-Fi throughout, air conditioning and heating.

Castello di Vicarello has five bedrooms in its main house and four in its garden. Suites can be rented in two different blocks – each block with its own private infinity pool; all nine have en-suite bathrooms and several have features like private entrances, lounge areas, kitchenettes and terraces. In the main house, there are four bedrooms with king beds and one with a queen bed. The garden suites have four bedrooms with king beds.

BOOK IT

Partial villa rental starts from €4,200 (approx. £3,818.45) per day with a minimum stay of two nights.

Exclusive villa rental starts from €10,000 (£9,091.55) per day with a minimum stay of two nights.

For more information or to book, visit www.castellodivicarello.com

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Fish&Pips Launches in The UK

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Bespoke travel company Fish&Pips have expanded their collection of properties to include locations in the UK. Formerly specialising in ski chalets and European hotels and villas, this friendly team of experts will now offer a selection of hand- picked, owner-led hotels and selfcatering hideaways that showcase the very best of Britain, from the wilderness of the Highlands to the quintessential Suffolk countryside.

Holly Chandler and Philippa Hartley, best friends and founders of Fish&Pips, have a long list of strict requirements when it comes to adding to their expertlycurated and evolving collection to ensure that they cut the mustard. “All the hotels and hideaways that Fish&Pips have carefully chosen to work with are in incredible locations.

They champion British produce, offer excellent, friendly service and the warmest welcome,” says Holly Chandler. “If there’s one belief shared by everyone at Fish&Pips, it’s that food is an absolutely vital part of any holiday. We focus on destinations that champion local food producers and the very best that the UK has to offer on the plate.”

Fish&Pips offers tailor-made UK holidays with a friendly concierge service focusing on food, local experiences and top-notch service. At every stage of the booking process, the small team of experts at Fish&Pips offers a personal service which goes above and beyond, to make sure all the guests’ needs are not only taken care of, but surpassed.

They know that a memorable holiday is about more than just the perfect place, but everything else that comes with it.

The Fish&Pips concierge team has an intimate knowledge of all of their properties and is on hand to impart their insider tips, from the best rooms, to the tastiest dishes on the menu. Their in-depth knowledge expands to the local area so they can help guests with anything they need, including family experiences, restaurant bookings, boat charters, tailored hiking maps, yoga classes, surfing lessons, whiskey and wine tastings.

The UK collection falls between two categories: Hideaways and Hotels.

Hideaways The founders have sought out properties with the same winning formula – picturesque and remote locations, enviable décor and top-notch facilities. Think boltholes and castles in the wilds of the Highlands, thatched roof hideaways and stately homes in the Suffolk countryside. All Hideaway guests will be met with a bountiful breakfast hamper filled with delicious local produce.

Hotels Their selection of hotels features the finest properties you could find in the UK, with a strong focus on charming, owner-led hotels. Think The Fish Hotel in The Cotswolds, The Newt in Somerset and The Fife Arms in The Highlands.

All of the hotels in the collection are chosen based on their excellent locations, friendly service and, of course, their delicious food.

For booking and further www.fishandpips.co.uk

information,

visit

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Living La Dolce Vita A Driving Holiday Between Two of Southern Italy’s Historic Hotels

This exclusive new driving experience takes guests from the Amalfi Coast, through the historic town of Matera and the heart of Italy’s inner ‘heel’ to Puglia, in a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider, complete with relaxing spa treatments, bespoke cookery classes and private local tours

The sun-drenched south of Italy with blue, twinkling coastlines have flittered through our daydreams over these last months but restless travellers, both in Italy and abroad, are finally able to live La Dolce Vita again. Travellers wishing to reclaim their summers and reconnect with family and friends can embark on a glorious drive into Southern Italy, twinning two of the country’s most historic and beautiful family owned boutique hotels. Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa is a converted monastery, built into the side of a cliff on the iconic Amalfi Coast, offering one of the most dramatic views in the world, while Castello di Ugento is a restored Norman castle overlooking the lesser known town of Salento in Puglia. To elevate the experience further, guests on this package can choose to rent a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider 1967 for the duration of their trip.

Flying into Naples, guests can start their trip in the spectacular Amalfi Coast, spending three nights at the iconic 17thCentury, Monastero Santa Rosa. This 20bedroom boutique hotel comes complete with a famous infinity pool which ‘floats’ over the edge of a cliff in Conca dei Marini. Here, visitors will enjoy the hotel’s pristine and spacious grounds, which include the stunning landscaped gardens, historical herb garden and 12th century chapel.

Guests will feast on seasonal menus from Michelin Star restaurant Il Refetorio and unwind in the award-winning spa, with a treatment per person included in the package.

This exclusive treatment using Santa Maria Novella products, can be done outside on the spa terrace overlooking the sea or inside the extraordinary Monastero Spa, designed by Jane Goff to fit within the original 17th century vaulted ceilings and rustic stone walls. For those keen to explore away from the crowds, the hotel team can organise privately guided hikes around the hidden trials of the Amalfi Coast. Monastero Santa Rosa will be re-opening this summer with a reduced occupancy, helping to put guests minds at ease alongside various other health and safety measures.

From Monastero, enjoy a scenic, leisurely 5h30m drive towards Puglia. Guests can break up the trip by stopping in Matera – a little-visited, historically-renowned town and the filming location of ‘The Passion of the Christ’. Here, they will enjoy a two-hour, privately guided tour of the Matera ‘Sassi district’ by an expert local guide. Next, they will drive onwards to Salento, where they will venture through the heart of Italy’s inner ‘heel’, with unbeatable views of Puglia’s olive groves, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, known as ‘The Italian Maldives’.

The trip concludes with a three-night stay at the eightbedroom Castello di Ugento in Puglia, the most historic family property in the region, which has been lovingly restored back to its former glory. The Castello is famed for being a culinary destination in its own right and visitors will delight in the use of 100% local ingredients, including fruit and vegetables from Castello’s own kitchen garden as well as all bread and desserts made on site by talented Pugliese Chef Tommaso Sanguedolce. They will take part in private cookery class at the world-renowned Puglia

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Culinary Centre, followed by lunch as part of the package. They can also picnic in the expansive grounds of the Castello, enjoy the gorgeous aperitivo hours in the Castello’s 18th century garden and enjoy day trips to some of the best beaches in Italy. Guests can benefit by exploring the cultural wonders of nearby Salento, Lecce and the picturesque port of Santa Maria di Leuca, without the usual tourist crowds, while the expert concierge team can also organise private wine tastings at a local vineyard and experiences at a nearby olive oil farm.

BOOK IT

This Exclusive Southern Italy package starts from €3,440 (approx. £3,088) based on two people sharing one room for three nights at Monastero Santa Rosa on a bed and breakfast basis, including a one hour spa treatment per person, a two-hour private guided tour of the Matera ‘Sassi district’ and a three-night stay at Castello di Ugento on a half board basis, including one cookery class and lunch for two.

Optional add on: Rental of vintage Alfa Romeo Spider 1967 for the duration of the trip (seven days), for delivery at Naples Airport and collection at Bari Airport will cost €1,660 (approx. £1,488)

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STARS Manish Kumar Arora (K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant) reveals what’s in store for you this month

Leo (23 July – 22 August) There are going to be some radical developments in your life this month.Your vision is all the more realistic now, but pleasingly so. You work steadily and determinedly towards your goals. You will feel romantic or you may even be in love as the month opens. You would open your heart to new situations and new persons. This applies to friends, lovers and casual acquaintances. Life’s usual knocks don’t seem to upset you this month, and a positive attitude keeps things fresh.

Favourable Dates: August 3, 6, 12, 15, 21, 24 Favourable Colours: Grey & Yellow

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Virgo (23 August – 22 September) You are due to gain recognition in your professional life, and sexual and romantic satisfaction will follow close behind.

Your public image and professional affairs will demand extra time and responsibilities but the rewards that follow will be worth it.Your higher mind is expanding, and you might be considering furthering your education (it’s a fabulous time to do so) or simply broadening your knowledge in a more informal manner. Your increased faith is derived from this more spiritual belief system.

Favourable Dates: August 4, 8, 13, 17, 22, 25 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow Libra (23 September – 22 October) This month will be a warming up phase when issues of home and love will take precedence and new routines will be put into motion. You shouldn't be surprised at how many changes are coming your way for the better. Your ideals are higher than usual, teaching may be part of the picture, and your cultural and spiritual awareness increases. Others notice your more tolerant and broadminded nature.

Favourable Dates: August 2, 3, 11, 12, 20, 21 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) This period brings noticeable improvements to your environment and self-confidence to your personality. Your personality is more obviously expansive, exuberant, and enthusiastic; and your natural optimism and generosity are highlighted, even heightened.Thiswill be a great time for travel and leisure. You may want to explore exotic places or revisit familiar places.Your professional life continues to be unpredictable and exposes you to new people and ideas.

Favourable Dates: August 7, 10, 16, 19, 25, 28 Favourable Colours: Green & White

Sagittarius (22 November -21 December) You may recognize talents that you never knew you had, and this can be a sudden, exciting discovery. You would do your best to avoid impulsive decision-making that is built upon your desire to be a free spirit. This month will find you concerned with your marital status if you are single, and married Sagittarians can expect to feel like newlyweds. This month will bring surprise gifts, good news and goodwill from your nearest and dearest.

Favourable Dates: August 3, 6, 12, 15, 21, 24 Favourable Colours: Green & Blue Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) This month brings about subtle changes to your value system. You would be moving towards a less materialistic value system, and may be encountering unexpected circumstances that bring about a fluctuating or uncertain income. There will be elation in romance. It is also a time when you are feeling freer on an intimate level. Your overall perspective on life expands, and you are more willing to embrace unusual, mystical, or spiritual philosophies.

Favourable Dates: August 5, 7, 14, 16, 23, 25 Favourable Colours: White & Purple

Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) You should find circumstances, ambition, creativity, and potentials taking more shape. New work or health techniques and habits, new tools, or modes of travel spell improvement. Emotional or material, something important can solidify or be anchored during this month. It can be a time to make a significant purchase, sign a contract, lease, or

loan, or take on some other major responsibility. Romantic prospects could fire up too.

Favourable Dates: August 6, 9, 15, 18, 24, 27 Favourable Colours: White & Purple

Pisces (19 February – 20 March) This month will see you interface with more people than you usually do. You’ll bump into friends and acquaintances along the way. Your presence, advice or skill sets can be important support, but be forewarned that you can also get pulled into complicated situations with friends, colleagues, or groups.

This month intensifies the need to refortify where it counts the most –namely your home-base. Renovate an address, the walls, cupboards, or the people in it.

Favourable Dates: August 4, 11, 13, 19, 22, 27 Favourable Colours: Blue & Yellow Aries (21 March – 19 April) You have a greater desire to get away, expand your horizons, and broaden your life experiences. This is a time when you are more able to get away from the daily routine. This month is good for personal popularity and influence, as well as getting personal initiatives off the ground. Nevertheless, problems arise in a partnership regarding matters of sharing, intimacy, and finances. Excessive self-interest and wilfulness can undermine your close personal relationships– and can actually work against your better interests.

Favourable Dates: August 4, 8, 13, 17, 22, 26 Favourable Colours: Yellow & White Taurus (20 April – 20 May) Your personal philosophy will be changing, and this month gives you a push towards adopting beliefs that truly work for you in the real world. You will also be learning about your need for self-expression through adventure. You will be forming business partnerships, meeting a long-term romantic partner through your career, or focusing on career goals with a partner. Love will make you smile and sex will be especially memorable with a Virgo, Leo or Pisces.

Favourable Dates: August 2, 10, 19, 20, 28, 29 Favourable Colours: Green & Blue Gemini (21 May – 20 June) This will be a prosperous time for money and your love life.

You will be the winner and luck will be evident during this magical month. You could also be on the verge of fame and fortune. You are astrologically fated to have your every wish granted. Much pleasure through higher learning, connecting with people faraway and with completely different backgrounds than yours, and a broader scope of experiences is in your stars this month.

Favourable Dates: August 3, 6, 12, 15, 21, 24 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Grey

Cancer (21 June – 22 July) This month puts a spring in your step! You are looking for fulfilment in your life now. This is good news so you can relax and expect cash, love and your sex life to rapidly expand throughout this month. Confidence is the key–faith in the universe and in your ability to do the right thing instinctually will get you everywhere now. You feel considerably more free to be yourself, and others tend to accept you more readily.

Favourable Dates: August 3, 4, 12, 13, 21, 22 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow

manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

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Weekend Starts Here....

Spirited by Julie Cohen Viola has an impossible talent. Searching for meaning in her grief, she uses her photography to feel closer to her late father, taking solace from the skills he taught her and to keep her distance from her husband. But her pictures seem to capture things invisible to the eye . . .

Henriette is a celebrated spirit medium, carrying nothing but her secrets with her as she travels the country. When she meets Viola, a powerful connection is sparked between them - but Victorian society is no place for reckless women.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, invisible threads join Viola and Henriette to another woman who lives in secrecy, hiding her dangerous act of rebellion in plain sight.

Faith. Courage. Love. What will they risk for freedom?

Greenland A family fights for survival as a planetkilling comet races to Earth. John Garrity (Gerard Butler), his estranged wife Allison (Morena Baccarin), and young son Nathan make a perilous journey to their only hope for sanctuary. Amid terrifying news accounts of cities around the world being leveled by the comet's fragments, the Garrity's experience the best and worst in humanity while they battle the increasing panic and lawlessness surrounding them.

As the countdown to global apocalypse approaches zero, their incredible trek culminates in a desperate and last-minute flight to a possible safe haven Release Date: 21st August

Ride Like a Girl (DVD) ‘Ride Like a Girl’ is the inspirational true story about a little girl, Michelle Payne (Theresa Palmer) dreams of the impossible: winning the Melbourne Cup horse racing's toughest two-mile race. The youngest of 10 children, Michelle is raised by a single father (Sam Neill). She leaves school at 15 to become a jockey and after early failures she finds her feet, but a family tragedy, followed by her own near fatal horse fall all but ends the dream.

But with the love of her dad and brother, Stevie, Michelle will not give up.

Release Date: 10th August

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PRICELESS

www.affinitymag.co.uk AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

ISSUE 109

Coffee Break

We show you how it works wonders for your skin & hair WWW.AFFINITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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