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PRICELESS
www.affinitymag.co.uk AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
ISSUE 116
Velvet Manifesto Vamp up your interiors with velvet
WWW.AFFINITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK
FASHION EXTRA
It's time for a wardrobe update
LOVE IS IN THE AIR With our Valentine's Gift Guide
ISSUE 116
Channel Your Inner Zen with some Facial Yoga
How to Avoid Zoom Fatigue
Don't Neglect the Décolletage Neck creams to tighten, firm and plump
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LETTER EDITOR’S
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With the weeks just blurring into one never ending cycle of Zoom calls, team meetings, home schooling and endless emails, it’s no wonder we’re all feeling burnt out, with our evenings, sleep and the weekends simply not being enough for us to recharge. Our usual methods of recharging and replenishing our energy are not working, and with the nation in lockdown, it’ll be months before we return to any form of normality. Now more than ever, we’re looking for alternative ways to reenergise and motivate for the week ahead. We spoke to John Nolan-Neylan, CEO and Co-Founder of high-performance nutrition brand Revvies, who shares his top tips to help us avoid Zoom fatigue and stay energised throughout the week, page 14 tells you more.
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There can’t be many of us who haven’t tried yoga at one time or another during our lives, it’s a way of channeling our inner Zen and reducing the stress on our body, but did you know your yoga practice can go beyond the body and be used on the face? It’s news to us, so we thought we’d investigate further (page16). You must have been hibernating if it comes as a surprise to you, that this month, 14th February to be precise is Valentine’s Day. If you’re all loved up we’re here to help you with the perfect gift (page 20) and if you’re not loved up there’s no rule saying you can’t treat yourself, because you certainly deserve it! Until Next Month
Stay Safe, Stay Positive and Be Kind
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Jane x
1. Heart Pyjamas, £25, Next 2. BarryM Fresh Face Tints, £4.99, www.barrym.com 3. Quilted Jacket, £179, www.barbourinternational.com 4. Pearl Handle Bag, £70, Dune London 5. Sophie James Mayfair The Crown Candle, £48, www.sophiejamesmayfair.com 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 26
52
Affinity
January 2021
8 13 17 24 27 32 34 37 40 45 50 54 58
Learn to be All In Dont Neglect your Neck Hot Picks Pretty in Pink Black Beauty Foodie News Food of Love Celebrate with Bubbles Velvet Manifesto Cosy Corner Paradise in The Seychelles Idyllic Crete Hideaway Weekend Starts Here
35
On The Cover GAALA
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Learning to be
‘All In’ One of the things I remember my father saying to me is that if something is worth doing, it is worth doing well. And, as many children do, I kind of ignored this for many years, but now I must confess to taking a lot more notice of the things he used to say. Being ’all in’ is a phrase that implies commitment - giving something your all. Why on earth would we not?
Take a moment to consider what is important to you in life right now – what things do you want to work towards – what kind of future is important to you. The details don’t matter but it is important to know where your destination is – it’s hard to be all in if you are vague about what results you want. Consider a few areas of your life and it really doesn’t matter which ones you choose I have simply given a few as examples. For most areas there are some similarities which come back to how we acknowledge and demonstrate our commitment to areas of life we say we value. If we don’t value it then there is no problem at all with NOT being all in – if we do however, then let’s be honest with ourselves and acknowledge the value it has for us and be ‘all in’.
Relationships If we care about a relationship then the only way to make it work whether it be with partners, family members or friends is to prioritise spending time together within the restrictions that exist at the moment, and that means being all in – deciding NOT to do certain other things so that time can be devoted to those we care about. But how many times do we hear time being used as an excuse. I understand there are limitations on time because of the other responsibilities we have – but if something is important, we will usually find ways of creating time.
Job – Career - Business For many people this is another important area of life – clearly for most of us it is how we earn money to live. But for a lot of us a job, career or business is much more than that. It will often give us satisfaction, and many will seek to be promoted which might involve study, or working particularly hard to gain recognition. The same is true of business owners who will often work long hours and go without to further their business or enable it to survive in these rather challenging times. But time isn’t the only element of going ‘all in’ it’s what you do with the time. We have probably all had times when we
go online, it doesn’t matter what device, to do something productive but end up being drawn into a rabbit hole and suddenly hours have elapsed. Another thing that can look like real commitment but I think can be a bit of a red herring is the chasing shiny objects syndrome. I bet many of us will have done it – we sign up for a course, a facebook live, some free training which all sounds very good but as soon as we do one, we are onto the next never allowing ourselves the time for the real work the application to our own practice. Home Whether it is tiny flat or a country mansion or anything in between it is usually our place of greatest comfort and safety and as such it is important for most of us. But there are also some people for whom their home feels like an extension of themselves – something that they love to pour time and money into. If it’s not then that’s fine – some use it simply as a base from which to further their other plans and ideals. But if it is a big deal for you, acknowledge it and give it your all. If not then accept that and know that ‘home’ for you may be much more about people than things – in which case don’t waste time and energy on creating a physical environment that isn’t very important to you. Hopes and Dreams Perhaps this is where being ‘all in’ can reap the greatest benefits. We all have hopes and dreams whether we hold those secretly in our hearts or whether they are open and everyone knows about them And, it doesn’t matter what they are – buying a home in the sun, growing your business, booking the holiday of a life time, moving home, writing a book or anything else you might hold as a dream.
If it’s not really a dream you hold dear and believe can happen, then probably you should let it go and use your time and energy to pursue something you feel is more achievable but if it really is a dream then go ‘all in’, commit to it give it your all – if it is worth striving towards. Perhaps it is more apparent than ever that we only get one shot at what we call life – so decide what is important to you and go ‘all in’.
Why not visit the Facebook group ‘All About You’ for more help and support on ways you can achieve a happy, balanced and fulfilled life? www.facebook.com/groups/AAYGroup/about
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BEAUTY UPDATES Drink your Wellbeing Organic Apoteke have launched a collection of organic, herbal teas that have been specially created with a herbal, potent blend to nourish and renew, reduce skin ageing, aid digestion, strengthen the nervous system and encourage toxins to leave the body quicker. Prices start from £9.99 and are available from www.organicapoteke.com.
The Perfect Pair Elemental Herbology have the perfect pair with their Neroli & Rose Damask body wash and body cream (£35, www.elementalherbology.com). With an aromatherapy blend of neroli, rose, damask and petitgrain to hydrate and soothe parched skin, while calming the mind and aiding relaxation.
Blush Babe ICONIC London’s new Ultimate Bronzing Powder gives a sun-kissed glow that lasts all year round, 100% Vegan and available in six matte shades: Light, Medium, Warm, Deep, Warm Deep, and Rich. The buttery texture and natural matte finish gives a totally smooth application, so you can cheat a just-stepped-off-thebeach effect - whatever the weather! Available at www.iconiclondoninc.com for a RRP £25.00
Supersize your Serum Clinical skincare brand, IMAGE have SUPERSIZED their Bestselling Serum, launching the VITAL C Hydrating Anti-ageing Serum in Deluxe size (£130). Loved by all skin types, this high-potency multi-tasking serum softens the appearance of wrinkles, supports skin elasticity and fights environmental damage. Available from www.imageskincare.co.uk
Nudification W7 Makeup have launched their new eyeshadow palette, Nudification (£6.95, www.w7makeup.co.uk). The palette consists of 16 gorgeous pressed pigments filled with a variety of soft mattes, sultry shimmers, modest metallics and simply jaw-dropping toppers.
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Midlife Madness I don’t really want to use any of the words like lockdown, unprecedented, new normal, distancing etc but oops I just have. Suffice it to say that our language has now changed a bit to reflect the times we are living through. Our daily routines have also changed to reflect the current situation. I have always enjoyed a walk but blimey at the moment where, when and with whom (distanced or course) that walk will be takes up an inordinate amount of mental energy. Then there are all the other words which were part of our usual lexicon BUT they have assumed a new importance, words like Netflix, jigsaws, crocheting, and many others. There is no doubt our worlds have, hopefully temporarily, shrunk a bit and we now seem to spend longer concentrating on the minutiae of lifewhich actually is the ‘real’ stuff. And many of us have realised anew that relationships are what makes the world go around – I’m talking mostly about our relationships with others but we can’t forget we have a relationship with ourselves.
Anyway, I’ve bought a calendar, goodness knows why because for the foreseeable future I’m going to be writing ‘stay at home’ on every day. Unless I put all the detail about my ‘walks’ which you can tell are one of the central parts of my day. Oh, I’d love to be writing ‘meet ‘C’ at theatre’, ‘meal out with D&J’, ‘weekend away in Sussex’ or even better ‘flight booked’. But I know that isn’t going to be happening any time soon.
For many of us, much of our day may be spent in front of a computer screen on zoom or teams or whatever – maybe dressed completely or as several friends have told me this week wearing PJ bottoms and something more work like on their top half. I bet we have all used the ‘my signal dropped out’ excuse either disappearing completely or disabling camera/microphone while we
stuff our face, run to the loo, take another call etc. And the most over used though essential phrase has to be ‘you’re on mute’ – now wouldn’t muting be a wonderful feature to have in real life!
So, there is no denying life has changed and doesn’t look like it will change back anytime soon so we are stuck with a lot of this new language that reflects many of our new habits. Habits which I am fairly staggered I have got to enjoy so much! For example, we have long conversations about the birds that have visited the garden, how much of the bulb’s new shoots are showing, where that odd-looking jigsaw piece fitted, how muddy the woods were, let me tell you very, very muddy, or numerous other, not earth-shattering topics! Then there is food which has assumed immense importance – obviously we eat it, but we also plan it, discuss it and consider various options for almost every meal or snack in minute detail. Planning trips to the shops is done with military precision considering how busy the shop will be – will we walk, bike, or go by car - which of course means lengthy consideration of the weather – still it engages me and passes the time! If someone had told me a while ago, I’d get into crosswords I would have laughed in their face but actually they have become a really pivotal part of my day. While we have breakfast, we often do a quick crossword, before dinner often a crossword and during the day a 5-word cryptic crossword – still can’t cope with any more ‘crypticness’ in life – it’s complicated enough. At the weekend we have a real treat – the Jumbo general knowledge crossword! Well, it is important that we make weekends feel different from the rest of the week! But when hubby comes into the kitchen and asks if I fancy ‘quickie’ I have to remember he is probably talking about a crossword!!
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Don't Neglect the
Décolletage
Your neck is the first place you'll notice visible signs of ageing, so here are the best neck creams to tighten, firm and plump
Clarins Super Restorative Décolletéand Neck Concentrate, £57.06, www.feelunique.com PRAI AGELESS Throat and Decolletage Night with Retinol, £35, Marks & Spencer
Dermalogica Neck Fit Contour Serum, £79, John Lewis
Emma Hardie Lift & Sculpt, Firming Neck Treatment, £65, www.spacenk.com
REVIVE Fermatif Neck Renewal Cream, £105, www.spacenk.com
Neostrata Triple Firming Neck Cream, £45, Skincity UK
PRAI AGELESS Throat and Decolletage Night with Retinol, £78. www.stellardecolletage.com
BareMinerals Ageless Genius Firming and Wrinkle Smoothing Neck Cream, £29.60, Boots
This works Perfect Cleavage Firming Lotion< £38, John Lewis
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How to Avoid Zoom Fatigue and Burnout As we gear up for yet another month of working from home (or, you could say, living at work), many of us are finding it hard to find the energy and motivation to get through Monday, let alone the entire week. It is easy to feel that there just isn't enough hours in the day, with the week just blurring into one never ending cycle of Zoom calls, team meetings and endless emails, and before you know it, it's Monday all over again! This has left us feeling burnt out, with our evenings, sleep and the weekends simply not being enough for us to recharge.
Working from home has impacted us all, with our energy levels being the barometer of its impact. Nationally representative research conducted by Revvies, has found that 37% of Brits claim their energy levels are the lowest they have ever been, with another 37% claiming that working from home again has made them the most lethargic and tired they have ever been. Our usual methods of recharging and replenishing our energy are not working, and with the nation in lockdown, it’ll be months before we return to any form of normality. Now more than ever, Brits are looking for alternative ways to re-energise and motivate for the week ahead. John Nolan-Neylan, CEO and Co-Founder of highperformance nutrition brand Revvies, shares his top tips to help us avoid Zoom fatigue and stay energised throughout the week:
1. Have some 'mindful' me time, and meditate Practicing mindfulness, and particularly engaging in a simple meditation practice, has been linked to a host of cognitive benefits. Allowing yourself some time to relax, quiet the mind, and focus on regular, smooth breathing can boost the brain's executive functions, reduce impulsive and emotional behaviour, improve mood, and leave you feeling energised. This is an especially effective technique after a draining workday to achieve a productive, feel-good evening.
2. Get up early and exercise outdoors The right amount of exercise and sleep will bring the most benefits to your energy levels. According to a
study conducted by Appalachian State University, the best time to exercise for weight management and better sleep is at 7 am. Exercising and sleeping well can make yourself more alert, reduce stress, and improve cognitive functioning which is sure to make you more energised to get through the day. During lockdown it might be worth just moving this back to daylight hours because of the next point.
3. Use caffeine to your advantage Revvies Energy Strips contain either 40mg or 100mg of caffeine in each serving – which is roughly equivalent to either a cup of tea or coffee respectively. Dissolving on the tongue in seconds they provide a faster pick me up to help you perform at your peak. Used by professional sports teams and Olympic athletes, you can take them without any water for a convenient and rapid boost of energy. Taking a Revvies sugar-free strip in a moment of fatigue, or just at the end of the working day, will give you the alertness and energy you need to help you make the most of your day. 4. Rest & self-care It is important to use your free time in the evenings and weekends to rest and care for yourself. For some this is chilling out and watching a movie, having a bath with a glass of wine or going for a nice brisk walk with your family. It is so important to be able to use the spare time you have to rest and recharge in order to avoid burning out mid-week. Resting allows you to replenish your energy levels, whilst also taking your mind off work or any worries and anxieties you may have of the week ahead.
5. Organise your time to make the most out of your day The benefits of organising your day are simple - being more organised and achieving your goals gives you a great sense of satisfaction, and gives you more time to reap the rewards of the other tips on this list! Being able to effectively plan your day will help you to boost your productivity - both at work and at home - and enable you to take the ‘me time’, nap time and exercise time needed to live a happy and energy-filled life.
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Time for Facial Yoga Many of us have taken up yoga to channel our inner zen and reduce the stress on our body, but did you know your yoga practice can go beyond the body and be used on the face? Dr Rakus, founder of Dr Rita Rakus Clinic (www.drritarakus.co.uk) gives us the low down on how to counteract the effects of stress on our skin giving you one less thing to worry about!
What are the benefits? Facial yoga is a natural facial technique that you can practise in your own home and incorporate in your daily regime. Facial yoga releases tension in your face, improves the overall tone and increases circulation to promote the production of collagen, helping reduce the appearance of wrinkle and fight the signs of ageing. Using the correct techniques, facial yoga can activate blood circulation in targeted areas, strengthening elasticity & muscles and help to smooth the skin. How often should you do it? For long term results, it is advised to stick to a daily facial yoga regime, spending 15-30 minutes a day to practice the technique in a quiet space.
Can it make wrinkles worse? Instead of making wrinkles worse, facial yoga is said to alleviate the formation of wrinkles and reduce the appearance of them as you are essentially training your face with the right techniques and movements on your skin Techniques to practice There are some techniques for facial yoga which are said to awaken your facial muscles. For example, blowing raspberries is a warmup exercise which is said to relax
muscles in the face as you cause a vibration. Another recommended technique to slim down ‘tech neck’ is relaxing your shoulders and lifting your chin up to the ceiling until you feel a stretch in the upper neck and chin area. To firm sagging skin around the cheek area, use your mouth to pull your face to one side and hold for 10 seconds to feel a stretch, repeat in the other direction.
Tools to use – Gua Sha Gua Sha is a therapeutic massage tool based on ancient Chinese wisdom, mainly consisting in pressing and scrapping the skin for stimulating blood circulation, toxins elimination, releasing muscle tension, reducing puffiness and allowing the flow of energy through the body. The tool is small, delicate and easy to use at home, however like any other massage you need a certain level of professionalism in order to achieve effective results. A beauty professional first of all from offering the pleasure of being treated and having a much more pleasant touch - is trained on a professional level for using the tool and different techniques for different concerns. Some people may have extreme sensitivity in some areas, which a professional may notice and avoid in order not to have the risk to cause bruising. Another advantage in having a professional doing it for you is that it’s allowing you to fully relax, experience the treatment not only on a skincare level but as relaxing therapy too. Gua Sha can be nicely combined with an oil, mask or serum to help the product penetrate the skin faster (monnay.co.uk). Products to use – Oio Lab Algaemania Treatment Oil Oio Lab combine organic plant extracts with active ingredients offering clinically proven results so you can achieve beautiful skin guilt-free (www.wolfandbadger.com).
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Beaded Earrings, £19.50, Oliver Bonas
Gold Leaf Sculpture, £8. Wilko
AFFINITY HOT PICKS
Guess Ladies Watch, £169, www.watchshop.com
Pink Sapphire Rose Gold Ring, £2,500, www.fentonand.co png
Leopard Make Up Bag, £16.50, Oliver Bonas
Leopard Faux Fur Heated Throw, £119.99, www.dreamlanduk.co.uk
This month’s must have gifts and accessories
Harvard Desk, £399, John Lewis
Metal Tray, £10, Matalan
Rainbow Kindness Mug, £19.95, www.emmabridgewater.co.uk
Off White Ankle Boots, £150, Mint Velvet
Slouch Bag, £28, Next
Kind & Grateful Sweatshirt, £17.99, New Look
Wellness Colouring Book, £14.99, Very
Grey Striped Knitted Hoodie, £45, M&Co
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How to Beat the Valentine's Blues by being your own Valentine It can be easy to feel alone and unloved on Valentine’s day, especially during these times of the pandemic, when we may be separated from those we love. However, when you have a great relationship with yourself, you are never alone and never unloved. The key is in making every day with yourself a love affair from the heart, so that your whole life becomes a fulfilling romance. With this in mind, ask yourself the following questions: When was the last time you looked deeply into your own eyes and said, “I love you and I’m here for you?” What kind of a relationship do you have with yourself? Do you respect yourself? Do you actively seek to support your dreams and goals and cherish the person you are? Do you like what you see when you look in the mirror?
How many of us really answer “Yes” to any of these questions? And yet we need to be able to answer positively, as how we feel about ourselves is fundamental to how we live our lives. Every relationship we have, every opportunity we choose to take (or don’t take) is determined first and foremost by the relationship we have with our self. We are amazing and extraordinary human beings and yet many of us fail to notice our own beauty, strengths, talents or the unique gifts that we have to offer. Give yourself the gift of love This Valentine’s Day make sure that you give yourself the gift of love. It’s wonderful to tell the people closest to us that we love and appreciate them – but what about you? When was the last time you said something really good about yourself or looked in the mirror and smiled instead of frowned? Loving and respecting who you are builds the foundations for an amazing life. When you love something, you take care of it. Things we don’t like become neglected, unused and eventually forgotten about.
So, how do you fall in love with yourself and be your own Valentine? The answer is exactly the same way as you fall in love with anyone else. You begin by a willingness to open your heart to love. You decide that you will look for the gorgeous and the great in who you are. That you will listen to the whispers of your soul as they invite you dance with your life and even if you don’t know the steps, you tell yourself that you will make them up as you go along. Loving yourself requires you to be there for you, to tune into your heart and navigate your life by the moments that light you up.
Love is saying “I DO” to YOU. Love shows up in the way you move, the words you write, the songs you sing, the way you dress and the sparkle that shines from your eyes. Love is also deeply discovered in those moments when the storm clouds roll in and your days seem shaken, unresolved, out of balance and too much to bear. Perhaps this is where our most enduring love and commitment to loving ourselves is found. The deepest love is
discovered when you choose to stand with you, rather than abandon you. When you stand your ground with courage and conviction and decide that no matter what else might be happening, you’d rather be here with you than anywhere else in the world. That’s LOVE!
Love yourself unconditionally Healthy, successful and sustainable relationships are built and developed from the promises that we keep, the love that we give and receive, the actions we take, the thoughts we think and the integrity we bring. Whenever we rely on someone else to make us feel loved, we are dependent on that person to make us feel good. This keeps us searching outside of ourselves for someone else to affirm that we are valued, adored and loved. Ultimately, our sense of love does not depend on another but on our own willingness to value, prize and cherish the person that we are. And whilst it’s wonderful to have the love of another person, it is our own love that provides the basis for the longest relationship we will ever have in our lives – our own. Unconditional love is the core quality of the heart. When you bring the feeling quality of love to every part of your life and your Self, you are positively changing and charging your inner and outer environment. Top 4 loving tips to beat the Valentine’s blues.
1. Write yourself a Valentine’s card or letter. Write what you love about you, the things you are grateful for and the times when you have overcome great challenges. Tell yourself how much you appreciate you and what you desire for the future.
2. Stay in your life! So often we allow ourselves to be pulled in a direction we don’t feel is right for us, but that someone else wants. We let other people’s opinions, doubts and insecurities sway us. Your job is to live your best life – not theirs! Write a personal pledge of love to yourself and vow to commit to it throughout the year. 3. Reconnect with your passion! What makes you feel alive? Take time to immerse yourself in the things that light you up. If you love to travel and can’t go out, then read a fabulous magazine on faraway places that lift your spirits. If dancing is your love, then take yourself by the hand, put on your favourite music and dance! 4. Send your love out into the world. Tell the people you love that you are thinking of them, not just on Valentine’s Day but every day! Hug your beloved pet and whisper how much you adore him or her. Throw your arms open to the world, look up into the sky and tell the world how beautiful it is and how much you love being here. Article by Astrid Longhurst, life & body confidence expert, coach and author of Romancing your body: How to fall deeply, passionately and wildly in love with your body and your life!
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Be My valentine We’ve rounded up some of our favourite Valentine gifts, so all you have to do is shop!
Milk Chocolate Foiled Praline Hearts, £25, www.farhi.co.uk
Bra, £34, Briefs, £16, Ann Summers 2 of 2 LOVE Slogan Sweatshirt, £29.99, M&Co
Limited Edition Cotton Gin, £37.95, www.otterbeckdistillery.co.uk
Assorted Pate De Fruit, £17.50, www.farhi.co.uk
Big Love Bracelet, £339, www.ruifier.com
Tiffany & Co Eau de Parfum, £75.99, www.perfumedirect.com
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Swarovski Tigris Choker, £530, www.swarovski.com.
Black Satin Pyjamas, £85, www.victoriassecret.com
Heart Chocolates, £40, Hotel Chocolat
Ultimate Fig Candle, £30, www.arran.com Bolney Estate Cuvee Rose, £29.99, www.bolneywineestate.com
Heart Jumper, £28, Next
Hooded Robe, £59, www.victoriassecret.com Lulu Guiness Lips Vanity Case, £125, Very
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FASHION
Roman Originals
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Pretty in Pink Brighten up your winter wardrobe with a burst of pink, find the shade that suits you best.
Aviator Jacket, £59, Miss Selfridge C
Patterned Dress, £325, Phoebe Grace Shacket, £22.99, New Look
Ribbed Jumper, £28, Next
Next Stripe Sleeve Jumper, £49.50, Oliver Bonas Earrings, £3.99, TK Maxx
Pearl Love Top, £12.50, F&F
Floral Pink Dress, £75, Oliver Bonas
Pleated Skirt, £30, Next
Bag, £65, Dune London
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Get Shirty
Versatile, flattering and effortlessly stylish, make a shirt dress your wardrobe staple this year.
Chambray Shirt Dress, £55, Fatface
Floral Print Shirt Dress, £35, Dorothy Perkins
Green Shirt Dress, £149, Hobbs
M&S.
Yellow Spot Shirt Dress, £75, Oliver Bonas
Navy Polka Dot Shirt Dress, £225, L.K.Bennett
Per Una Dress, POA, M&S
Floral Shirt Dress, £45, Joe Browns
Polka Dot Shirt Dress, £18, Matalan
Palm Print Shirt Dress, £45, Monsoon
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Front Fastening Bralette, £30, High Waisted, £14, Pour Moi
AND/OR Alexis Balcony Bra, £34, Thong, £16, John Lewis
Floral Pattern Lace Bra, £36, Thong, £16, Selfridges
Red Hot If there's any day to be sexy, it's Valentine's Day. Make sure you're feeling your sexiest with our red hot lingerie picks.
Lace Contour Bra, £50, Tanga Briefs, £24, Selfridges
Plunge Bra, £28,Thong, £16, Figleaves
Padded Balcony Bra, £49, Briefs, £14, Victoria's Secret
Padded Underwire Bra, £28, Briefs, £14, Pour Moi
Red Balcony Bra, £28, Brief, £16, Figleaves
Lace Body, £38, Selfridges
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Lace Underwire Bra, £20, Shorts, £10, Figleaves
Red Lips Bra, £16, Knickers, £10, M&S
Balcony Bustier, £18, Knickers, £8, M&S
Sheer Balcony Bra, £28, Briefs, £14, Figleaves
Underwired Balcony Bra, £30, Thong, £16, Figleave
Beauty in Black
You can never go wrong with black for Valentine's Day, it adds a sexy sophistication that’ll drive him wild all year round.
Lace Underwired Bra, £28, Thong, £14, Figleaves
Sheer Basque, £48, John Lewis
Lace Body, £45, John Lewis
Bluebella Lace Body, £38, John Lewis
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Crop Cardi
Wear as a top with jeans, or coordinate with a dress, cropped cardigans help create the perfect style.
Blue Rib Cardigan, £49.50, Oliver Bonas Coral Balloon Sleeve Cardigan, £15, Primark
Lipsy Cashmere Printed Cardigan, £109, M&S
Navy Cable Cardigan, £28, Dorothy Perkins
Lilac Fluffy Cardigan, £28, Next
Per Una Cardigan, POA, M&S
Cream Cardigan, £45, White Stuff Tweed Cardigan, £13, Primark
Coral Cable Cardigan, £22.50, M&S
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food & drink
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FOODIE NEWS Chocolate Bites
Cadbury has added new Dairy Milk Mini-bites to its lineup! These sweet treats are perfect for on the go and despite their size, they're PACKED full of chocolatey goodness. Featuring Cadbury Dairy Milk Flapjack Bites, Cadbury Dairy Milk Mini Cookies and Cadbury Dairy Milk Caramel Flapjack, this new offering is available from Sainsbury’s and set to excite every chocolate lover out there.
Vitality: A Healthy and Happy Heart
Pranita Salunke is a healthy lifestyle transformational practitioner, her new book, ‘Vitality: A Healthy and Happy Heart’ (£9.99, Amazon) outlines some simple, practical steps we can all take to improve our physical and mental wellbeing. Drawing upon a unique combination of the latest medical science and ancient philosophies, she helps readers to not only unpack and understand the underlying reasons behind their lifestyle choices, but also provides practical, enjoyable exercises to develop the positive mindset needed for sustainable change.
The Ultimate Valentine’s Tipple
Caorunn Scottish Raspberry Gin (£21) combines the invigorating dry, crisp taste of Caorunn Gin yet is enhanced by a natural raspberry sweetness - why not mix it with lemon juice, Chambord, sugar syrup and soda to create a refreshing Valentine’s Raspberry Collins? Available to purchase online and in Tesco stores.
Vegan Take-Away
Award-winning vegan restaurant Stem & Glory have launched a new online store offering UK wide delivery. The new range consists of finish-at-home ready meals, such as their popular Swede Gnocchi and Glorious Bourguignon, and recipe kits such as Stem & Glory’s trademark Kimchi Pancakes and Activated Charcoal Fettuccine with Mushroom ‘Scallops’. The online store will also carry probiotic drinks and a vegan bar featuring niche UK brewery craft beer and British wine. www.stemandglory.uk
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Ingredients
Duck & Thai Basil Stir Fry
2 Gressingham duck breast 1 small red onion 100g sugar snap peas 2 tsp sambal / Thai chilli paste (to taste) Marinade 2 tsp of palm sugar (or brown sugar) 1 tbsp fish sauce 1 tbsp of sesame oil 1⁄4 tsp of turmeric powder Sauce 100ml coconut water 1 tbsp fish sauce Large handful Thai basil leaves Red chillies, finely sliced Crushed peanuts, to garnish
Method
Bring a saucepan ½ filled with water to boil and blanch the duck breasts in the water for 2 minutes. Remove from the water, drain through a sieve and run some cold water over the top of the duck to cool. Dab the duck breasts dry with some clean kitchen paper and then put the duck breasts skin side down in a cold frying pan and turn the heat up to a medium – high heat. Cook for around 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden brown and then remove from the pan. Next, slice the duck into 2mm thick slices and massage the marinade ingredients well into the meat. Finely slice the red onion set aside
ready for the stir fry along with the sugar snap peas. In a large wok on medium high heat, add about 1 tbsp of vegetable oil and fry the red onion and sugar snaps for 1-2 minutes. Add the sambal / Thai chilli paste and continue to fry until it becomes fragrant but not yet browned. Then turn the wok onto a high heat add the duck and stir-fry for 1 minute. Lastly, add the coconut water and fish sauce and cook until the sauce is reduced by about half. Lastly, just before serving, add the Thai basil. Serve in a large bowl, and garnish with extra herbs, chilli and crushed peanuts.
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Roasted Plum, Pumpkin and Lentil Korma “This delicious curry is perfect for a cold winter’s evening and good news, it’s suitable for vegans and vegetarians too”
Ingredients
500g pumpkin or butternut squash, cut into chunks 1 large red onion, chopped 2tbsp olive oil 1tsp cumin seeds 6 South African plums, pitted and sliced 2 x 400g cans green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained 4tsp vegetable stock powder or 1 vegetable stock cube 4tbsp Korma curry paste 200g coconut cream 2tbsp chopped fresh coriander Salt and freshly ground black pepper 4tbsp natural yogurt (dairy-free for vegans) Fresh coriander, to garnish Naan bread, to serve
Method
Preheat the oven to 200°C, Fan Oven 180°C, Gas Mark 6. Put the chunks of pumpkin or butternut squash and red onion into a roasting tin and add the olive oil, tossing to coat. Roast for 25-30 minutes, until just tender. Add the cumin seeds and South African plums to the roasting tin and roast for 5 more minutes. Meanwhile, tip the lentils into a large saucepan and stir in the stock powder or crumble in the cube. Add the curry paste, coconut cream and chopped coriander. Heat, stirring occasionally until simmering. Tip the roasted vegetable mixture into the saucepan and stir gently to mix. Season to taste with salt and pepper and cook for a few minutes. Serve, garnished with natural yogurt and coriander sprigs, accompanied by warm naan bread. Cook’s Tips: If you want to keep the curry vegan, be sure to use a dairy-free yogurt for the garnish. If you need an alternative to pumpkin or butternut squash, try sweet potatoes instead
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Peach and Amaretto Tiramisu “This luscious dessert is perfect for an after dinner treat”
Ingredients Pasta Dough: 300ml strong black coffee, cooled 6tbsp Amaretto liqueur or Marsala 200g pack sponge fingers 4 South African peaches, pitted and thinly sliced 2 x 250g tubs mascarpone cheese 400ml double cream Finely grated zest of 1 orange 30g caster sugar 2-3tbsp pomegranate seeds Method Put the coffee into a shallow bowl and add the Amaretto liqueur or Marsala. One at a time, dip in half the sponge fingers, allowing a couple of seconds for the liquid to soak in, transferring them to a large trifle bowl as you go along. Beat the mascarpone cheese in a bowl to soften it. Whip the cream in a large chilled bowl until floppy, then fold it into the mascarpone with the orange zest and sugar. Pile half on top of the sponge fingers and spread out evenly. Arrange half the peach slices over the top in an even layer. Repeat the layers of soaked sponge fingers, mascarpone mixture and peaches. Cover and chill until ready to serve, sprinkled with the pomegranate seeds. Cook’s Tips: You could use trifle sponges instead of sponge fingers – and raid the drinks cabinet if you don’t have Amaretto liqueur or Marsala – try Tia Maria or sweet sherry instead. If you like, sprinkle the top with 3-4 roughly crushed Amaretto biscuits.
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Toast to Love Time to warm up this winter and dish up some sumptuous food accompanied with our favourite Bordeaux wines.
Freixenet Italian Sparkling Rose Freixenet Italian Rosé is fresh and fruity showing flavours of red fruits, white flowers and ripe apples. It is a delightful wine to be enjoyed on its own, or as a refreshing pairing with food. £12, Tesco
Bolney Estate Cuvee Rose 2018 An elegant and delicate, single vintage, traditional method sparkling wine. Salmon pink colour in the glass full of lots of tiny bubbles. Floral and red apple aromas lead to red apple & cranberry on the palate with a bright, fresh finish and lovely length. £29.99, www.bolneyestate.com
Laurent Perrier Rose
Pommery Brut Rose Champagne This fine and fruity champagne is distinguished by its fleshy note while remaining lively, fresh and highly subtle. A blend of rosé and Pinot Noir of Bouzy Grand Cru. Delicate pale pink with slightly salmon tones. £49.99, Waitrose
One of the rare Rosé champagnes using the maceration technique giving extraordinary depth and freshness that has made it the benchmark for Rosé champagne around the world. Revered by wine-lovers for its flavour, and by aesthetes for the beauty of its 17th century-style bottle dating back to Henry V, the cuvée Rosé Brut is one of the stars in the Laurent-Perrier range.
£52, www.thechampagnecompany.com
Sea Change Prosecco Rose Vibrant and fun, bursting with red fruit and celebratory fizz this wine is fresh to the market, a real wine world first. This exciting new sparkling rosé also has its roots in the picturesque Veneto region of north-eastern Italy. £12.99, www.seachangewine.com
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interiors
DFS
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Velvet Manifesto Create an elegant living space with bold colours and sumptuous velvet fabrics
Button Pouffe, £199, Joe Browns
Double Chair, £645, Oliver Bonas
Bee Cushion, £34, Oliver Bonas
Ochre Chair, £595, Soho House
Velvet Cushion, £79, Amara
HoMustard Velvet Chair, £229.99, Homesense
Olive Velvet and Linen Chair, £429, Atkin and Thyme
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Grey Button Bench-Footstool, £279, www.blossomandbuttercup.co.uk
Blush Cushion, £35, The French Bedroom Company
Red Velvet Quilted Throw, £29.99, Homescapes Online
Beige Velvet Chair, £300, Amara
Green Pouffe, £40, Habitat
Pink Footstool, £39.99, Homescapes Online
Moss Green Chair, £229, Cult Furniture
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Cosy Corner Winter evenings are made for cosying up and just relaxing
Hexagonal Side Table, £49.99, Homesense
Potted Globe Hebe, £19.95, www.blossomandbuttercup.co.uk
List Journal, £5.99, Homesense
Primark
Linen Fringe Cushion, £18.99, Homesense
Tweed Lambswool Throw, £95, Amara
White Pouffe, £49.99, Homesense
Floor Lamp, £139.95, www.blossomandbuttercup.co.uk
Textured Cushion, £49.99, Homesense
Folding Table,£95, Cuckooland
Nordic Lounge Chair, £1,924, Nest
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TRAVEL
South America
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Five Reasons why Tohoku will Shine in 2021 or Post Pandemic
ohoku, Japan Tohoku, an u p - a n d coming world-class destination for adventure and nature, will shine brighter in 2021 or once the time is right to travel again. This under-visited, wild and expansive region will undoubtedly take centre stage again as people look for off-thebeaten path travel destinations to celebrate the long-awaited resumption of international holidays.
T
Here are five reasons why Tohoku should be at the top of a travel bucket list in the post-Pandemic era:
Tohoku is one of the greenest places on earth with more open space than in most other places in Japan. Tohoku is a wild and expansive region (about 67,000 square kilometres or about 26,000 square miles) with lots of space for relaxation and social distancing. Seventy percent of the region is covered with forests while the ratio is 67% for Japan which ranks third in the world in terms of a forest to land proportion. Population per square kilometre is 129 in Tohoku vs 337 nationwide. Less than 2% of visitors to Japan have made it to this long-isolated region. Tohoku is a world-class destination for outdoor adventure as recognized by National Geographic's “Best Trips 2020” and Lonely Planet's “Best in Travel 2020.” Tohoku's natural delights range from crater lakes such as Okama and Goshikinuma and
sacred mountains such as Dewa Sanzan and Yamadera to calm dream beaches such as Jodogahama and unique islands such as Kinkasan. The newest national park, the scenic and dynamic 1,000-km Michinoku Coastal Trail, opened in 2019 on the Sanriku Coast and was named a finalist of the British Guild of Travel Writers' Tourism Awards 2020. The mountainous TowadaHachimantai National Park and the UNESCO-listed primeval beech forest, Shirakami Sanchi, are now more ready than ever to welcome international visitors with websites and signs in English. Tohoku is where you can enjoy ultimate relaxation in Onsen, Japan's famous hot springs baths. This volcanic region is known for an array of open-air hot springs baths in unique settings. Nyuto Onsenkyo and Matsukawa Onsen are located in the scenic mountainous areas of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, while Koganesaki Furofushi Onsen and Minamisanriku Onsen are situated directly on coasts, offering stunning ocean views. It is also easier in Tohoku than elsewhere in Japan to find affordable private hot springs baths at ryokans and hotels across the region. Tohoku, the historically-isolated region, is more accessible than ever, after a decade of government-led efforts to rebuild
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and make it a world-class tourism destination. Shinkansen bullet trains debuted in Tohoku in the 1970's, connecting it with the megapolis of Tokyo, and have expanded their service areas across the expansive region in stages, making it more accessible over the years. Since 2016, shinkansen trains connect Tohoku with the northern island of Hokkaido through an under-sea tunnel across Japan Sea. In 2021, the brand new 359-km Sanriku Expressway on the long-isolated Sanriku Coast by the Pacific Ocean will be completed and connect the northern port city of Hachinohe with Sendai, Tohoku's biggest city. For slower travel across Tohoku, several new scenic trains are now in service. Luxury sleeper train Shikishima, which means “four season island” to symbolize the seasonal natural beauties of Tohoku, debuted in 2017 and lets travellers see all across Tohoku in ultimate comfort. Tohoku Emotion, the gastronomy train launched in 2013, runs on the most beautiful part of the Sanriku Coast in northern Tohoku and serves exquisite meals prepared on the train with fresh local ingredients. For greener travel, charge stations for electric cars are located across Tohoku to make it possible to rent and drive one. (There are rental car outlets located at all major train stations.) Rental bikes are available in many places, allowing you to feel and breath the pristine air of Tohoku and immerse yourself in the serene landscapes.
Tohoku is a place of hope and an icon of resilience in 2021. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the historic earthquake/tsunami that devastated the Sanriku Coast and nearby areas of Tohoku in 2011, from which the region has recovered like its symbol, a phoenix. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, now scheduled for 2021, is dubbed the “Reconstruction Games” to celebrate and showcase the revival of Tohoku. The Olympics torch relay will start in Tohoku and go through some of Japan's most beautiful villages in the region. The International Olympics Committee calls the flame a “beacon of hope to the world and light at the end of the tunnel (pandemic)”. For more information, visit www.tohokukanko.jp/en
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True Luxury in the
Ultimate Paradise
n a beautifully remote part of the world, H i l t o n Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa stands alone on the stunning island of Silhouette. Each of the luxuriously appointed villas lie hidden along the shoreline of the white-sanded beaches or nestled in the lush jungle of the island's interior. Those looking for a place to truly relax and enjoy the extraordinary surrounds of Silhouette island can choose to stay in one of the King Sanctuary Pool Villas; each one, a secluded oasis of luxury, with a secluded furnished terrace and private pool, complete with rainforest views.
I
The King Sanctuary Pool Villa offers 185sqm of luxe accommodation with large windows and doors that allow for stunning tropical forest views and a sense of peaceful seclusion. The bedroom, looking out over a furnished terrace, offers a King bed, complete with 300 thread count sheets for an ultra-luxe sleep each night, along with a lounge area boasting stunning views over the private pool and personal garden pavilion.
The abundance of space continues in the bathroom, where an oversized free-standing bathtub looks out to the garden, separate shower and double vanity. For a truly indulgent spa experience, guests in the King Sanctuary Pool Villa can also enjoy a 30% discount at Eforea spa.
After a refreshing dip in the private pool, guests can settle into an expansive decked seating area, the perfect spot for sunbathing or reading; whilst the outdoor rain shower offers a chance to cool off. Views from the garden overlook tropical flora and granite hillsides as well as a private wooden pergola, which is the ideal place to enjoy some of the exquisite dining options available in your villa, for the ultimate decadent experience. There are a range of indulgent dining choices in modern and relaxed surroundings, set amongst panoramic views of the island and the sparkling sea that surrounds this coral isle; placing emphasis on the highest quality
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ingredients across each of the three restaurants and two bars.
Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa offers beautiful, unspoilt beaches all around Silhouette Island, with the resort itself being located along a 2.5 km stretch of picture-perfect, white-sanded shores, fringed by verdant foliage and strewn with dramatic granite boulders that are typical of the Seychelles. Those looking for a little more activity on their holiday can explore the island by bike or with one of the numerous hiking trails that traverse the island and the resort. Other excursions include beachside yoga, fishing, diving or snorkeling in warm, shallow waters where a kaleidoscope of colors can be seen from the coral and marine life. In a place as beautiful as the Seychelles, it is hard to top the incredible experiences already available, but Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa's stunning surroundings, as enjoyed from the luxury of the King Sanctuary Pool Villa has risen to the challenge for those looking for the ultimate tropical luxury experience. For more information, visit www.hilton.com/en/hotels/sezlbhi-hiltonseychelles-labriz-resort-and-spa
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Plan Ahead For A Naturally Socially Distanced Holiday In
The Maldives Those seeking secluded destinations for a 2021 holiday when travel resumes should plan ahead for a trip to the Maldives, the Indian Ocean nation that lends itself perfectly to social distancing thanks to its unique geography and one-island-one-resort offering.
A naturally self-isolated paradise, the Maldives is home to powder-white sands and azure atolls, whilst its highend resorts offer visitors days spent lapping up the luxury of the Indian Ocean and indulging in activities for every kind of traveller.
In the Maldives physical distancing comes naturally. As an archipelago nation, the geography of the Maldives lends itself to the distancing one needs during these times. Made up of 99% tropical waters, each of the Maldives' 1,190+ islands are scattered throughout the middle of the Indian Ocean, providing travellers with an enormous amount of space to relax, unwind and rejuvenate in the comfort of their own company.
Unknown to many holidaymakers, the Maldives is worldfamous for its unique one-island-one-resort offering, meaning that one hotel occupies an entire island to itself. These individual bubbles provide tourists with true desert-island escapism and the option to minimise their contact with the outside world if they wish. This feature not only keeps guests as safe as possible but also offers a highly personalised getaway where their every need is met by dedicated resort teams.
Home to some of the world's most beautiful retreats and with an abundant choice of private villa facilities for guests to choose from, all of the Maldives' resorts have reopened in-line with the COVID-19 safe tourism guidelines issued by the Maldivian Ministry of Tourism in June 2020. A pioneer in breathtakingly luxurious getaways and bucket-list experiences, the Maldives is well known for its extravagant resort offerings. It is also home to a number of premium all-inclusive retreats, ensuring the nation is the ideal destination for all travellers keen to avoid crowds during their holidays this year.
Restless wanderlusters can plan for unforgettable excursions offered by resorts to undiscovered sandbanks and travellers to the Maldives can also snorkel in reefs teeming with tropical fish, embark on private sunset dolphin spotting cruises or spend afternoons diving with the manta rays and whale sharks. For those looking for some much need R&R, practice calming yoga flows to the sound of the Indian Ocean on resort beaches or enjoy wellness treatments in under-the-sea treatment rooms, spas built on stilts over crystal-clear lagoon waters and in tropical gardens. This naturally socially distanced haven makes for the perfect post-pandemic getaway thanks to its natural safety insurances and luxurious offerings. For further information, visit www.visitmaldives.com.
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An Idyllic Crete Hideaway This year, Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas prepares to make its 2021 season the most memorable yet. Opening on 30th March 2021, (restrictions permitted) the resort welcomes guests showcasing a meticulous re-invention, renowned culinary talents and exclusive experiences in the nature of its private cove. A new era of elegance commences in the developing story of this five-star hillside beach resort, located in the beautiful, secluded cove on the North-East coast of Crete. The 2021 season brings you:
Reinvented Private Experiences in Deluxe Junior Suites In acknowledgement of the evolving needs of the modern traveller’s stay, Daios Cove is offering a Private Suite Escape for the 2021 season. Guests will enjoy a unique stay experience in the generously-sized Deluxe Junior Suites, replete with bespoke services and amenities of the resort. A full immersion into the laid-back Cretian lifestyle awaits in this luxury accomodation, as guests step out for a morning swim in their individual swimming pool and take in panoramic views of the shimmering Cove waters. Safe distancing and hygiene practices are all firmly in place in a
discreet manner, bringing guests an unparalleled holiday experience in spectacular natural surroundings.
Dining reaches new heights with exceptional menus at all restaurants in the resort and a fresh in-room dining concept elevates the room service experience in the safety of one’s own private space. Guests have access to the Residents’ Club – the ultimate gastronomy privilege service offering à la carte dining in all six of the resort’s restaurants with their extensive wine and drinks lists. The Residents’ Club services are also available in the privacy of your own room with complimentary unlimited room service and minibar.
Space and suave at the Ocean Restaurant and Bar Gastronomes visiting Daios Cove will enjoy dining at the Ocean; a fresh restaurant, bar and lounge area at the heart of the resort. Designed with the nature of the cove in mind, a blend of earthy textures and materials amplify a sense of understated luxury and combine with rockery and views of the Aegean Sea. The richness and colour of the surrounding landscape are embellished to please the eye. Long a leader of the gastronomy revolution in Crete, Daios Cove continues to raise the bar higher in continuing a
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fruitful collaboration with renowned gastronomy consultants Ducasse Conseil. Spearheading the resort’s food and beverage offering.
Ducasse Conseil create dishes harmonising exceptional food with a healthy lifestyle, and highlighting the very best local and seasonal ingredients with a contemporary twist on traditional Greek flavours. This year, they are also curating a mouhtwatering Kids’ Menu to satisfy the younger guests on holiday.
In terms of the drinks experience at Daios Cove, The Clumsies, Athenian superstar mixologists – recently reaching number 3 in the World’s 50 Best Bars 2020 - have skilfully created imaginative cocktails inspired by the cove itself.
Daios Cove’s main axis for 2021 is found in Our Protocol - a complete guide of uncompromising sanitation standards that go over and above enhanced procedures guaranteeing guest safety. With this in mind, the resort’s next season highlights hope to inspire future itineraries and remind us why we love to travel for meaningful experiences. For further information on Daios Cove, please visit the website www.daioscove.com
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STARS Manish Kumar Arora (K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant) reveals whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in store for you this month
Aquarius (20 January â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 18 February) The pull between a sense of responsibility to others and your own emotional needs is a strong one this month and many of you will have to make a decision that represents both a beginning and an end. Only you can say where your destiny lies. Affairs of the heart will play a strong part in this month. Dealings with interesting or unusual persons of the opposite sex may play a part for some while creative or spiritual activities and people could play a role for others. Favourable Dates: February 5, 9, 14, 18, 23, 27 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow
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Pisces (19 February – 20 March) This month will bring an increase in responsibility or workload for some while for others there will be a change in the pattern of daily tasks, perhaps brought about by an end, a separation or a new cycle in the family. The month also brings new romance, new ideals and new dreams, yet you can pull the plug on old passions as interest or enthusiasm for the familiar wanes and fades. Favourable Dates: February 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20 Favourable Colours: Blue & White
Aries (21 March – 19 April) This month brings an expansive period, widening your vision and stimulating you with new ideas about what you can achieve. The support or assistance of friends will be invaluable and you may make fortunate connections or meet with unusual people. Opportunity may come through those you meet. You may expand your activities into other areas of skill or endeavour through the influence of others. Favourable Dates: February 1, 6, 10, 15, 19, 25 Favourable Colours: Red &Yellow Taurus (20 April – 20 May) You will find that you are now able to walk a path you've been preparing for. You may come into new opportunities for travel and movement and will find that some doors will close and new ones will have to be opened. Healthcare or outdoors activity may contribute to your development. There could be an unexpected expense that may stretch the budget. News may cause you to review your financial situation. Favourable Dates: February 1, 5, 10, 14, 19, 23 Favourable Colours: Red & Grey
Gemini (21 May – 20 June) You may need to find a new kind of emotional life, one that gives you freedom. it will be important that your own sense of purpose and direction doesn't keep taking a back seat to the needs of those around you. The art of compromise will be essential to the process. Creative projects may be subject to delay or blockage. Speculative ventures may not pay expected dividends. Favourable Dates: February 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23 Favourable Colours: Red & Green Cancer (21 June – 22 July) Communication skills and new ideas are keys that will help to keep your working life on track. New knowledge combined with a good orderly approach and effective health routines will see you flourish and also help to hold at bay any added weight of responsibility that may come from your dealings with partners and close associates. There may be a rise in status for the partner as opportunity comes and contracts are negotiated. Favourable Dates: February 7, 9, 16, 18, 25, 27 Favourable Colours: Blue & White
Leo (23 July – 22 August) There will be radical shifts with regard to money over this time. Some of you will come into changed fortunes, suddenly or unexpectedly. Some will reach new heights while others will level off. You may be seeking new romance or reviving the romantic flair and flavour with your nearest and dearest. Self-beautification and changes of image may be an important theme for some. If you look different, you can feel different.
Favourable Dates: February 4, 6, 13, 15, 22, 24 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow
Virgo (23 August – 22 September) You may be looking at your career direction with a view to making change. Your responsibilities or obligations could be difficult to manage. You may experience a loss of familiar leisure activities because of a major change of circumstances or commitments. There may be a major domestic change or a new start for some. For others, it may be that interest and enthusiasm for an old situation will be renewed. Favourable Dates: February 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26 Favourable Colours: Blue & Yellow Libra (23 September – 22 October) This month may bring transformational change. There will be encounters or dramatic events that will shift your life into a new course. There will be intensity and stress, but many of you will find that extraordinary new possibilities or dimensions will emerge as a consequence of a new sense of destiny. There will be connections with new and different people. Which may lead some of you down the romantic path. Favourable Dates: February 8, 9, 17, 18, 26, 27 Favourable Colours: Blue & Red
Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) You might be drawn down the path of study, either metaphysical or behavioural. Some might find themselves in the worlds of power or high finance or simply among powerful but challenging people where others will find themselves in a new sector of the community, with new interests and concerns. There could be a problem with joint finances or holdings. Put new regimes of healthcare or selfnurture in place, as and when necessary. Favourable Dates: February 4, 5, 13, 14, 22, 23 Favourable Colours: Green & Yellow
Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) It is time to surge forward in a new direction. Get new ventures or projects underway. Be bold and determined to break new ground. However, you may need to realize it will take time and effort to get things off the ground. If you're looking for the easy road or the quick fix, you'll be disappointed. If you're in for the long haul and set something important and meaningful in motion, you'll be richly rewarded in time. Favourable Dates: February 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Favourable Colours: Red & White Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) You will have an increased workload or a new line of work altogether. This may see you operating in a more solitary capacity than usual It will be important to balance the demands of your work regime with changed requirements in the healthcare department. For those in a relationship, it's time to add zest or interest to your life together. New interests and new social relationships could lift you up and leave you sparkling. Favourable Dates: February 2, 3, 11, 12, 20, 21 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow
manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com
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Weekend Starts Here.... The Therapist by B A Paris Tell me your secrets.... When Alice and Leo move into a newly renovated house in The Circle, a gated community of exclusive houses, it is everything theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve dreamed of. But appearances can be deceptive.... As Alice is getting to know her neighbours, she discovers a devastating, grisly secret about her new home and begins to feel a strong connection with Nina, the therapist who lived there before. Alice becomes obsessed with trying to piece together what happened two years before. But no one wants to talk about it. Her neighbours are keeping secrets and things are not as perfect as they seem.... The million-copy Sunday Times best-selling author B A Paris returns to her heartland of gripping psychological suspense in this powerful tale of a house that holds a shocking secret.
Red Dot David and Nadja attempt to rekindle their relationship on a romantic hiking trip to the North of Sweden. The trip quickly turns into a nightmare when a red laser dot appears in their tent, and they are forced to flee into the unforgiving wilderness pursued by an unknown shooter. Release Date: 11th February (Netflix)
The Father A loving father finds himself sinking ever deeper into the depths of dementia. He wants no help at all from his daughter, who is becoming further and further estranged from him. Slowly but surely, the man finds himself doubting everyone and everything around him. Will he be able to find peace in his new reality before he passes away or will he leave without knowing just how much he means to his family? Release Date: 26th February (DVD)
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www.affinitymag.co.uk AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
ISSUE 116
Velvet Manifesto Vamp up your interiors with velvet
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FASHION EXTRA
It's time for a wardrobe update
LOVE IS IN THE AIR With our Valentine's Gift Guide
ISSUE 116
Channel Your Inner Zen with some Facial Yoga
How to Avoid Zoom Fatigue
Don't Neglect the Décolletage Neck creams to tighten, firm and plump
