Affinity Luxury Lifestyle Magazine January 2024 by jane fry

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PRICELESS AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

www.affinitymag.co.uk ISSUE 157

WWW.AFFINITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

VEGANUARY Easy recipes you'll love 'Peach Fuzz' Your Interiors

with this years Pantone Colour of the Year

ISSUE 157

DIETING MYTHS EXPLORED

Get Packing

CONNECTIONS Add more into your life

NEW YEAR, NEW WARDROBE

Time to Book Those New Year Boltholes

Time to update your style

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5 Editor’s

LETTER Most of us go into a New Year with all good intentions of eating well, exercising more and generally looking after ourselves a little better, there is so much advice, diets, fitness apps and dieting myths that it’s all slightly confusing, we take a look at these myths (page 12) and find out what is actually true.

You don’t have to be a vegan to enjoy this month’s veganuary recipes (page 30) they’re so delicious they’ll have you come back for more, all washed down with a glass or two of our pick of some of the best wines around (page 33).

Canvas Bag, £95, Dune London

With the Festive season well and truly out of the way we all think about updating our wardrobe (well I do!) page 19 starts our January fashion edit that includes dresses, boots and jewellery to add to your wardrobe.

Then there’s all the Travel planning (page 43), we’ve chosen some fabulous getaways including The Red Sea, Dolomites, Scotland, Lake Garda and more, where will you visit?

Houndstooth Ski Suit, £800, Harrods

And of course, with a New Year comes the ever-burning question “What will life hold for me this year?” well we don’t know about the year but we certainly know about the month, turn to page 56 to read this month’s stars. Love & Hugs to a Fabulous 2024!

V&A Chanel- Couture & Industry £30, www.vam.ac.uk

Jane x

2 Starfish Bracelet, £350, Giovanni Raspini

Silk Diamante Blouse, £725, Zimmermann

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Contents

Affinity

January 2024

8 Elevate Your morning Routine 15 Hot Picks 18 Conceali It 20 Knit Dress Season 23 Knee High Boots 29 Foodie news 36 Pantone Colour of The Year 40 Pretty Woman, Pretty Magical 44 A Mountain Retreat 48 Relaxation at Gleneagles 52 St. Regis Red Sea Resort 56 Your Stars 58 Weekend Starts Here 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.

Affinity affinitymag.co.uk Luxury Lifestyle Living On The Cover Joe Browns affinitymagz

facebook.com/AffinityMag @affinitymagz Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 07507 602401 Advertising: jane@affinitymag.co.uk Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita

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Build a Winter Morning Routine It can be hard to develop a morning routing during the winter months - a time of wet, dark and cold which leaves us feeling tired and unmotivated. Although we can’t control what’s around us, we can control out responses. Structure can really help balance the seasonal changes and improve our productivity. We spoke to our experts who advise how to build a morning routine during the winter months and stick to it!

Don’t hit the snooze button! It can be easy to want to stay in bed and repeatedly hit the snooze button, especially when it is cold outside the covers! However, it might be doing you more harm than good by disrupting your body’s natural sleep cycle. Sleep specialist, Lauren Peacock from Little Sleep Stars told us “Pressing snooze and snuggling back down signals to the body that it can settle back into a restful slumber. The alarm sounding again jolts us awake just as we’re on our way to deeper sleep, causing sleep inertia. Despite having had a few more minutes sleep, we feel drowsier than if we’d got up with the first alarm!” Have a hearty breakfast and take your supplements Is breakfast an essential meal? Should I take my supplements? What are the best foods to eat to give me energy during the winter months? These are all questions we ask when trying to build a strong morning routine. To maintain your health and make sure you get enough essential nutrients for the day, nutritionist Donia Hilal told us ‘Breakfast can be the most important meal of the day, depending on what you decide to eat and nourish your body with. Some people prefer to start their morning off light and fresh without breakfast, which is totally fine. If you prefer having a hearty breakfast filled with nutrients to get you going for the day, then ensure you are eating a source of healthy carbohydrates, protein or healthy fats for energy. This could be carbohydrates such as oats, protein such as eggs, or healthy fats for brain power such as unsalted nut butters. Combining supplements with your morning breakfast is a great way to ensure consistency in your supplement regime too. Most supplements are best absorbed when combined with a meal. For example, vitamin D is better absorbed if taken alongside a meal which contains some fats as it is a water-soluble vitamin.” Go for a morning walk Walking is one of the easiest approaches to getting active and improving your overall fitness. Not only is it an exercise that is ideal for all age groups, but a quick ten-minute stroll every day can improve your blood pressure, manage joint and muscular

pain, make your bones stronger and reduce body fat. Focusing on your surroundings as you walk can also help you feel more present and as you spend time out in the great outdoors, it does change you. Whether it be a daily walk or a ten-day trip up into the mountain, living simply, has a huge positive impact. Meditate Setting up a mindful practice brings a calmness to our wellbeing. Whilst meditating in an outdoor space may not be possible during the winter months, with the right furnishings, lighting and scents, you can create a tranquil space in your home which you can come back to re-centre your mind every morning.

Pour yourself a coffee to start the day Is there anything better than a warm brew on a cold winter’s morning? Coffee ranks as one of the most popular drinks in the world, so it is no wonder that so many people associate their winter mornings with the smell of a fresh cuppa. There has been a lot of debate about the best time to have your cup of coffee to maximise the effects of productivity and happiness. As our cortisol levels are high between 8-9am, it’s suggested having your first cup of coffee at 9.30am, when your body’s energy levels will naturally be low.

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Beauty NEWS Get Lippy Create luscious lips with the RMS Liplights Cream Lip Gloss (£29 – SpaceNK), a multitasking lip gloss available in a choice of shades for a sophisticated look that pampers the lips. As well as a flattering lip makeup, the gloss also acts as a treatment balm and volumizer. Formulated with peptides, it helps stimulate the cells and plump up the lips for a smoother, fuller look, while botanical butters provide soothing skincare for comfortable.

A Dark Twist on a Floral Classic Black Datura Eau de Parfum (£180, www.millerharris.com) is the latest statement scent to launch in Miller Harris’ expertly curated Private Collection. An equally floral and woody perfume, this unisex fragrance has been inspired by the Datura (also known as Moonflower) a flower that opens in the evening. Sophisticated and elegant with a long-lasting dry down, Miller Harris Black Datura is the ultimate scent to take you into a new year.

Cream Cleanse your Face through the Menopause Living M have launched their NEW 2-in-1 Cream Cleanser & Mask (£25). Designed for use as both a cleanser and a face mask, the intensely nourishing formula makes it the perfect choice for rejuvenating dry menopausal skin and restoring radiance. An indulgent blend of antioxidants, vitamins, nourishing natural oils and uplifting neroli blossom water. These superstar ingredients are designed to rejuvenate menopausal skin. Use as both a cleanser and reviving overnight or 10minute intensive treatment mask.

Welcome to Wood Elements Inspired by traditional Chinese Medicine, the five-element theory is the belief that all things in life, from our bodies, to our skin, and even the seasons are influenced by the five elements; Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal & Water. The Wood Element rules spring, representing new beginnings and growth. Which is just what the Wood Element range from Elemental Herbology (www.elementalherbology.com) will do just that to your skin, with formulas balanced for combination skin, patented ingredient technology and natural botanicals to replenish your skin, it’s time for new beginnings with your skincare.

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New Year’s Dieting Myths

The 1st January 2024 will see millions of Brits declare ‘new year, new me’ as they attempt to lose weight after a decadent festive season. However, Nutritionist for The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan, Mark Gilbert, is here to reveal whether a range of well-known myths about weight loss are fact or fiction. From juice cleanses to the January gym rush, Mark breaks down each one’s effectiveness in losing weight from a clinical perspective.

1. Juice cleanses are the ideal way to ‘restart your system’ - It’s not uncommon for people to use a ‘juice cleanse’, where they only drink juice from a selection of fruits and vegetables, to lose weight. On paper, this seems to be an effective way to cut out calories and unhealthy foods, but Mark considers it an ineffective way to lose weight quickly. He says ‘‘a juice cleanse may have some shortterm benefits associated with the large calorie deficit. However, juice will not provide the adequate vitamins, minerals, protein, or fats which are essential for a healthy diet. In fact, juice contains virtually all its calories as carbohydrates, the only of the three macronutrients that is not essential to a good diet.” 2. Going to the gym is the best way to lose weight - It’s a logical assumption that signing up with a gym and hitting the treadmill is a step towards weight loss, and it is. However, Mark notes that balancing exercise with a wellconsidered diet is key. He notes that “studies on exercise show that it alone results in an average of less than five pounds of weight loss. However, diets average about 10 pounds of weight loss, so balancing the two is important.

3. Simply cut out the carbs if you’re serious about shedding the pounds Cutting out carbohydrates may help accelerate weight loss (assuming calories are restricted), but it needs a bit more nuance and understanding.

Mark says that “most of the food that has a negative effect on blood sugar, insulin levels, and long-term metabolic health are carbohydrates. If these carbs are replaced with proteins and fruits and vegetables, the result will almost certainly be improved body composition and health.” So, while cutting carbs, focus your diet on a mix of protein (such as meat, eggs, and dairy products) and fruit and veg rather than fads like the juice cleanse diet.

4. Yo-yo is a no-no - So called ‘yo-yo dieting’ is often subject to simplistic criticism. Mark points to studies on The 1:1 Diet showing slimmers are able to maintain virtually all their weight loss over a four-year period with an intermittent, nutritionally complete diet and proper support. So with the right tools, it is possible to keep the weight off in the long term. Under the right circumstances, intermittent weight fluctuation can result in successful longer-term weight loss. In the right conditions, weight can (and in real life usually does) fluctuate up and down somewhat but can be maintained overall, without any negative health consequences. Indeed, in these circumstances, health improves.

5. You’re in it alone - Every year, millions of Brits will undertake the daunting task of losing weight. It can be difficult to know where to start, which is why Mark recommends speaking to someone with a proven track record and experience in working with dieters. Every dieter has a different history, different genetics, different environments, and different schedules and will respond uniquely to a given diet.

So, when you're considering how to start your New Year diet, consider Mark’s advice and don’t believe every myth you hear.

For more information on the 1.1 Diet, visit www.one2onediet.com

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E F I L MID MADNESS We all live our lives around the different hassles that come with the different seasons.

In the winter we cope with the numerous and varied stresses of the Christmas period – everything from tangled Christmas tree lights – how does that even happen – to relatives descending in droves and the challenge of buying presents for people who literally have everything. There’s also the will they won’t they dilemmas – will someone arrive with a present or not – they did last year so I’d better get something for them – or did they? Then in a very short time it’s all done for another year we pack it all away racking our brains to think of a way to stop the lights tangling and to remember where we have put any of the presents we bought but didn’t use or were bought but won’t use so we can regift them next year – hopefully not to the person who gave us them as a gift. Then somehow it becomes spring and we turn our attention to tidying the garden or indeed the traditional spring clean of the cupboards where we discover things that went out of date in the last decade (it’s not just me is it?) and then trying to find room for all the extra stuff we seem to have acquired over Christmas. But it’s not just spring cleaning – it seems to be a season of goals and challenges – heck it starts in winter with the whole New Year’s resolutions – true they are usually well forgotten by the time spring officially starts in Mid-March. But it is exhausting all this thought of self-improvement - eating less moving more generally being better! Then there is the holiday season – well the adverts for summer holidays begin on Boxing Day! So many things to

work out and if you are trying to pick a holiday that won’t break the bank but can keep various different ages happy it is a challenging puzzle indeed. And that is way before you have the packing puzzle. There is a kind of law that whatever the luggage allowance is, it is never quite enough – I’m not even talking about budget airlines clearly no one can manage a week on a small hand luggage bag but that is what they seem to expect – on many such airlines the luggage literally costs more than the seat! And how is it that last summers clothes always seem to have become a bit tighter – colours a bit more jaded or when it comes to swimwear it is often near complete disintegration!

But somehow, we manage and many of us enjoy a holiday – hopefully not getting too burnt and we return to the dull grey climate of Great Britain as we hit autumn. One of the return greetings is often kitting out kids for school but the wise among us know that you can’t get uniform in September – that would be far too logical – July is the new September when it comes to back to school products. We then spend ages looking for last year’s gloves/hats/scarves and in desperation when we can’t find them we buy duplicates only to have them turn up in an obscure place but one we have searched in many times – how can that even be? It is in September, or even August sometimes, that Christmas stuff starts appearing in the shops and Then we before we know it we’ve come full circle and we are back to the Christmas puzzles – older and wiser of course but as I age life seems to become a kind of groundhog day as I start saying to anyone who will listen that it can’t possibly be a year since last Christmas!

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Silk Printed Shirt, £800, ETRO

Coastal Cushion, £95, XV Srripes

King Of Soho Gin, £31.99, Master of Malt

Sound Healing, £12.99, Amazon

AFFINITY Circular Necklace, £28, Oliver Bonas

HOT PICKS This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Woodwick Tempest Candle, £32.99, www.yankeecandle.co.uk

Ted Baker Emily Watch, £160. www.watchshop.com

Denim Bag, £90, Dune London

Textured Head Band, £12.50, Fatface

Jungle Party Pyjamas, £55, NoLoGo

Set Speckled Wine Glasses, £16, Marks & Spencer

Lingerie, £45, Marks & Spencer

Moushe Puzzle Earrings, £195, Cultmia

Speckled Candle Holder, £8, Matalan

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Connections While we all love possessions and experiences the thing that really makes the world go around is connection. As humans we are wired to connect with others -just think how many songs are written about love. Connection isn’t just romantic love it is that something that is shared with another human – anything from a long meaningful relationship to a much more fleeting moment when someone helps us or we are able to support another human being. And let’s be honest people don’t just go out of their way to help others – sometimes they out their life on the line in a sacrificial way to save another. So, clearly connections between humans are important. Other words we might use for connection could be; Belonging – Closeness – Affection – Rapport – Attraction – Togetherness, to mention but a few. But whilst we all know connections are what makes our world go around they are so powerful sometimes that they can be destructive. Which is why we all need to have some boundaries to ensure people treat us – even the people we feel a strong connection to - with respect.

So, what is it connections do for us. As mentioned earlier much of our satisfaction with life comes from our connections. We know that for small babies – connection or as we call it for babies’ ‘attachment’ is vital to survival. They can only survive if an adult has their back so they are born with an in-built drive to get an adult human to ‘claim’ them. That adult will hopefully then meet all their needs or ensure they are met – they will feed them keep them safe and nurture them in all sorts of ways. A child who does not get the attachments they need will often grow up to struggle with social engagement AND with managing or regulating their emotions. Babies aren’t born being able to soothe themselves (regulate their emotions) they do this by being comforted or soothed by a calm caring adult lots and lots of times. You simply can’t spoil a baby by picking them up they haven’t got the brain architecture to connect their crying with being

picked up – they will eventually but not as a baby. It’s through doing that repeatedly that babies learn how to calm themselves – they need a calm adult to help.

But attachment is not just important for babies – as adults the worst punishment we have is isolation – used to be known as solitary confinement – and remember Tom Hanks in Castaway – his drive for human contact was so strong he drew a face on a ball! I imagine for many of us the worst aspect of Covid was not being able to see people we felt a connection or attachment to in the we’d want to – keeping our distance from people we love doesn’t come naturally.

Connection helps our mental wellbeing – in fact we know from research that social isolation can contribute to depression, insomnia, and cognitive decline. But isolation can also increase our chance of death by at least 50%! Also, if we are isolated we are likely to be bored and sometimes that means other problems increase like obesity, smoking or misuse of alcohol. We know that stress can lower our immune system but it appears social isolation can do that too. But the opposite is also true when we connect with people we can go through a whole gamut of emotions – we might share a problem or share a laugh and when we release these emotions often feel good endorphins are released into the brain.

So, whether you are the type of person who feels the need to be surrounded by people most of the time or the type of person who enjoys a lot of time alone but needs some connections, know that when you connect you are taking care of yourself. Don’t think about that meet up with a mate or that long phone call as a luxury. As humans these connections are vital to our wellbeing and need to be protected. For more about limiting beliefs and manifesting check out my book Make it Magnificent available on Amazon.

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2 CONCEAL IT

Whether you want to brighten under your eyes, add coverage to a last minute breakout, or define your favourite facial features, there’s a concealer that will make your beauty woes all but disappear.

1. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Concealer, £26, Harrods 2. Clinique All Over Concealer, £26, Selfridges 3. Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer, £4.49, Boots 4. Estee Lauder Double Wear Concealer, £31, John Lewis 5. Hourglass Vanish Concealer, £17, SpaceNK 6. NARS Concealer, £26, Sephora 7. Sisley Stylo Concealer, £50, Harrods 8. Urban Decay Correcting Concealer, £26, John Lewis 9. Laura Mercier Longwear Concealer, £28.50, John Lewis

3 6 5

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FASHION

Lipsy

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Knit-Dress Season Versatile, stylish and above all else, cosy, everyone needs at least one knitted dress in their wardrobe

Red Stripe Knitted Jumper Dress, £38, Very

Cable Knit Dress, £55, River Island Khaki V-Neck Knitted Dress, £36, Next

Rollneck Knitted Dress, £39.50, Marks & Spencer

Stripe Knitted Dress, £21, Matalan

Ribbed Knitted Dress, £26, Peacocks

Lipsy

Orange Cashmere Dress, £135, Jaeger

Stripe Knitted Dress, £130, Boden

Cream Knitted Dress, £109, Barbour Grey High Neck Knitted Dress, £29.99, New Look

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Stylish & Chic in White

If you buy one thing this year, make it a white shirt, a staple that always look stylish whether you dress it up or down

Applique Blouse, £99, Mint Velvet

Broderie Anglaise Blouse, £79, Scamp & Dude

Bow Blouse, £168, Reiss

New Look

Button Blouse, £49, French Connection

Frill Neck Blouse, £79, Phase Eight

Draped Neck Blouse, £36, Mango

Lace Insert Blouse, £259, Maje

Tie Neck Blouse, £17, Matalan

Tie Front Blouse, £59, Next

Lace Trim Blouse, £185, Max Mara

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Sweat Style Once used just as sportswear, a sweatshirt is now a versatile wardrobe staple that looks stylish and can be worn with just about anything

£22, Very

£22, Next £29.50, Marks & Spencer

3 Tommy Hilfiger

£180, Anine Bing NYC Sweatshirt, £22.99, New Look

£69. Mint Velvet

£175, Sporty & Rich

£160, Anine Bing £32, Next

£34, Next

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KNEE HIGH BOOTS

A staple style for the colder months, endlessly versatile, they will step you through every smart or casual occasion

1. Black Boots, £125, Monsoon 2. Black Heel Boots, £59, Marks & Spencer 3. Brown Bucckle Boots, £200, Dune London 4. Frosted Misletoe Wreath, £19.99, Homesense 5. Brown Kitten Heel Boots, £125, Marks & Spencer 6. Brown Low Heel Boots, £145, Dune London 7. Camel Suede Boots, £160, Marks & Spencer 8. Cream Kitten Heel Boots, £200, Dune London 9. Brown Heel Boots, £189, Kurt Geiger

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4 GOLD RUSH

One of the most versatile accessories, a pair of gleaming gold earrings. They can be styled to suit any outfit, whether it’s a casual pair of jeans or an elegant evening dress, there’s a pair to suit any occasion.

1. Natalie Perry Blooms Earrings, £1,350, handmadeinbritain.co.uk 2. Constantine Earrings, £195, joannalauraconstantine.com 3. Chain Drop Earrings., £195, Liberty London 4. Triple Hoop Earrings, £175, Beaverbrooks 5. Statement Earrings, £6.99, TK Maxx 6. Vivienne Westwood Earrings, £130, Beaverbrooks 7. Mula Earrings, £50, Nkuku 8. Textured Earrings, £19.50, Oliver Bonas 9. Lace Earrings, £210, Contessina London 10. Leaf Drop Earrings, £22, Oliver Bonas

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Food & Drink

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FOODIE NEWS

Premium and Vintage Premium, vintage champagne Champagne de Saint-Gall ‘Orpale’ Grand Cru 2012 is a testament to the richness of the terroir found in the Côte de Blancs, in plots primarily near Avize, Cramant, and Ogers. Made exclusively from Chardonnay, the golden hue in the glass lends itself to notes of preserved lemon and toast on the nose, which continue in the mouth, melting into flavours of smokiness and butter on the palate. A champagne of this calibre is the perfect accompaniment for toasting to a New Year!

Discover a World of Flavour Love food, love travel? We’ve found the perfect treat for you. Just launched World Food Box by global food specialists, Surya Foods, is a new monthly subscription service that allows food lovers to explore new flavours from around the world in the comfort of their own homes. The carefully curated food boxes will take in a new destination each month and feature key ingredients, to help create six delicious recipes, as well as popular snacks and treats from the featured destination country. Visit www.worldfoodbox.co.uk to choose your foodie journey.

Mix It Up Mason Cash’s colour mix mixing bowls come in an assortment of colours and sizes including; cream, green, blue, pink, red, grey and more, bringing a pretty colour palette to any cooks kitchen, the only decision you’ll have to make is, what are you mixing up? Starting from £23, from www.masoncash.co.uk.

Snack on Seaweed PhycoHealth, a pioneer in food-grade seaweed production, has launched two revolutionary green seaweed products. Cultivated on the South Coast of New South Wales, these offerings combine ancient wisdom with modern science, presenting health-conscious consumers with a unique and nutritious culinary experience and include PhycoHealth Sea Shell Pasta (£5.49) and PhycoHealth Sea Bircher Muesli (£6.99) Providing a comprehensive solution for modern dietary requirements, making it a fulfilling and energizing breakfast or snack option, available from www.hollandandbarrett.com).

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Pumpkin Lasagne with Marinated Avocado “This tasty and easy dish is a must for helping you get through Veganuary” Ingredients 2 avocados 8 tbsp avocado oil 800 g pumpkin, in 1 cm cubes 3 garlic cloves 6 basil sprigs 1.4 litre tomato passata 250 g lasagne sheets 1 vegan mozzarella ball (125g) Zest and juice of 1 lemon Dried chilli flakes, to taste Method

Preheat the oven to 220ºC. Toss the pumpkin cubes with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil and spread them out over the baking sheet. Roast the pumpkin cubes in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Finely chop the garlic and the leaves of 4 basil sprigs. Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a frying pan. Sauté the garlic with the finely chopped basil for 1 minute. Add the passata and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Take the pumpkin cubes out of the oven. Lower the oven temperature to 200ºC. Spoon a layer of tomato sauce into the ovenproof dish and cover with lasagne sheets. Add the roasted pumpkin cubes to the rest of the tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper. In the ovenproof dish, make more layers with the lasagne sheets and the pumpkin sauce. Finish with a layer of sauce. Tear the vegan mozzarella into pieces and divide over the lasagne. Bake the lasagne in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes until golden brown and done. Halve the avocados, remove the stones and peel off the skin. Dice the avocado. Mix the avocado cubes with the lemon zest, the lemon juice and 4 tablespoons of avocado oil. Add chilli flakes to taste. Take the lasagne out of the oven. Top with the marinated avocado and the leaves of the last 2 sprigs of basil. Recipe from The World Avocado Organization

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Crispy Tofu and Cavolo Nero Noodles “Perfect for veganuary this dish is high in vitamins K and C, an ideal supper for supporting immunity during the colder months”

Ingredients 2 tbsp vegetable oil 300g block firm tofu, cut into medium sized cubes 1 red onion, cut into half moons 200g baby corn 200g sugar snap peas 4 cloves garlic, sliced 1 thumb ginger, grated 200g bag of cavolo nero, hard stalks removed and roughly chopped Sauce 4 tbsp Sriracha 3 tbsp reduced salt soy sauce Juice of lime 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil 3 tbsp maple syrup 4 portions of rice noodles Method

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the tofu to the pan, fry on each side for few minutes, turning carefully until crispy. Set aside. In the meantime, add the onion and remaining oil to a separate frying pan, cook the onion for 7-8 minutes then add the corn, sugar snap peas, garlic and ginger. Fry for 3-4 minutes, then add the cavolo nero. Fry for a further 2 minutes Cook the rice noodles as per instructions on the pack. Now add all the sauce ingredients to the pan along with the noodles and tofu Mix to combine, then serve in bowls. Recipe from Discover Great Veg

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Gingerbread and Butter Pudding

Ingredients Sliced gingerbread cake 25g butter, softened 50g sultanas 1 orange, zested 2 tsp cinnamon 350ml whole milk 50ml double cream 2 Leghorn large eggs Pinch of Maldon Salt 25g granulated sugar, plus extra for the top For Eggnog Custard: 500ml double cream ½ tsp vanilla bean paste 5 large Leghorn White egg yolks 1 cinnamon stick 50g golden caster sugar 2 tsp cornflour ½ tsp ground nutmeg Splash of brandy (optional) Method Grease an ovenproof dish (roughly 25 x 25cm). Slice the gingerbread and butter each slice with the softened butter, then cut into triangles. Arrange the slices in the dish and sprinkle with the sultanas, the orange zest and cinnamon. Continue until you have used up all the slices of the gingerbread. Gently warm the double cream and milk together in a pan to scalding point but being careful to not let it boil. Crack the eggs into a large bowl and whisk together with the sugar and salt until pale, then gradually pour in the milk mixture and whisk until smooth. Strain this through a sieve into a jug. Pour this custard mixture over the gingerbread. Preheat the oven to 180c. Once the oven is hot, sprinkle the top of the custard-soaked pudding with a little extra demerara sugar and then place it into the oven and bake for 30 – 40 mins until set. While the pudding is baking, make the eggnog custard. In a pan gently heat the cream with the vanilla paste, cinnamon stick and nutmeg just before boiling. Place the egg yolks in a large bowl and whisk with the golden caster sugar and cornflour until pale and well combined. Then slowly add the warm cream mixture, whisking continuously to make a smooth custard base. Pass the mixture through a sieve and back into a clean pan. Heat gently, while whisking until it thickens. Add a splash of brandy if desired. Serve the warm gingerbread and butter pudding from the oven alongside the eggnog custard. Recipe From Clarence Court

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Winter Evenings

As we head well and truly into winter season, all we want to do is curl up and get cosy. Tesco have prepped their wine aisle ready to offer the perfect accompaniment to cosying up, what one will be your choose?

Finest 1531 Blanquette De Limoux Blanquette de Limoux was first created in 1531. Keeping to tradition, this wine has been aged in bottle for 12 months to produce complex flavours of peach, apples and toasted brioche. Serve as an aperitif or with seafood or apple tart. £10.00

Finest Prosecco Valdobbiadene This refreshing sparkling wine has flavours of ripe pear and white peach and a zesty, lively finish. Delicious with canapès or light desserts. £9.50

Finest Cinsault Rose South Africa’s oceanic breezes provide perfect vineyard conditions for this refreshing, bright rosé from the Western Cape. Attractive pale colour, it is dry and light on the palate with notes of strawberry and raspberry. PAIRS WITH Salads, prawns and salmon dishes. £7.50

Finest Montagne St Emilion This smooth, full bodied red wine has been carefully crafted to obtain the typical blackcurrant, cedar wood and savoury spice flavours of Montagne Saint Emilion. £10.00

Finest English Sparkling Wine This English Sparkling Wine is made from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Blanc grapes. Dry and crisp with apple and citrus flavours balanced by delicate brioche notes on the finish. Perfect served chilled as an aperitif. £21.00

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interiors

Maison Valentina

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PEACH FUZZ STYLES Peach Fuzz is the Pantone Colour of the Year, a comforting hue 'softly nestled between pink and orange' its soft, heartfelt hue expresses the desire to nurture kindness, compassion, and connection—all while fostering a deep coziness.

Add luxe and elegance to your bathroom space with bold veining and a charmingly delicate shade, these luxurious peach onyx effect tiles (www.wallsandfloors.co.uk) are truly magical and perfect for opulent schemes.

3 Seater Linen Chaise, £3,781, Darlings of Chelsea

William Morris Cushion with Fringeing, £53.89. www.welovecushions.co.uk

Peach Fuzz adds feminine sophistication to any room in your home. It’s a versatile shade that works well with any design, from modern and minimalist to traditional and classic, a blind (www.blinds2go.co.uk) brings this colour palette subteley into your interiors.

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Dining Chair, POA, Koket

White Tiger's Reflection - This unique print captures the majestic presence of a white tiger standing in serene waters, reflecting its magnificent form against a backdrop infused with the peach-coloured essence of Pantone's "Peach Fuzz" (Print Press Print)The artwork is a standout piece in a collection inspired by this warm and inviting hue.

Set 2 Cocktail Glasses, £32, Rose & Grey

The living room, a pivotal space in any home, sets the stage for comfort and aesthetics. In this bright living room, Peach Fuzz, a harmonious ensemble unfolds. The Dukono II Armchair (www.brabbu.com) adorned with subtle Peach Fuzz accents, exudes tranquillity against the clean canvas. .

Striped Tablecloth, £110, Joanna Wood

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Shop The Vase One of our favourite ways to accessorise your home is by adding a vase. There are so many different styles, colours, materials, and textures you’ll be spoilt for choice, what one will you choose?

Tortoiseshell Vase, £35, Click Style

Glass Vase, £18, Gisela Graham

Ceramic Vase, £39.99, Wayfair

Bud Vase, £12.50, Oliver Bonas

Teracotta Vase, £79.99, Ivyline

Glass Vase, £7.99, TK Maxx

Striped Vase, £20, Habitat Round Vase, £150, Casa By JJ

Terracotta Urn Vase, £29.50, Marks & Spencer

Mocha Vase, £59.99, Ivyline

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www.coxandcox.co.uk

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Pretty Magical, Pretty Romantic It’s time to head to Beverly Hills and experience one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time.

Big night out. Big. HUGE. Pretty Woman: The Musical is Hollywood’s ultimate rom-com, live on stage. Once upon a time in the late ’80s, Vivian met Edward and her life changed forever. Be swept up in their romance in this dazzlingly theatrical take on a love story for the ages – and get to know these iconic characters in a whole new way – in a sensational show guaranteed to lift your spirits and light up your heart.

Pretty Woman: The Musical features original music and lyrics by Grammy Award winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, a book by Garry Marshall and the film’s screenwriter J.F. Lawton, it is directed and choreographed by the two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell. Featured in the musical is Roy Orbison and Bill Dee’s international smash hit song ‘Oh, Pretty Woman’ which inspired one of the most beloved romantic comedy films of all time. Pretty Woman the film (produced by Arnon Milchan - New Regency Productions) was an international smash hit when it was released in 1990. The musical is now on a UK and Ireland Tour arriving at Milton Keynes Theatre this March! Want the fairytale for even longer? Get your tickets now.

Pretty Woman: The Musical comes to Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday 19th – Saturday 30th March 2024. Tickets are available from www.atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes

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TRAVEL

Italy

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A Mountain Retreat

Five-star mountain retreat FORESTIS has wellness at its heart, as it invites guests to reconnect with nature and embrace life in the slow lane, making it the perfect place for a winter wellness escape this year.

Nestled in the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites, this alpine oasis offers a number of slow wellness activities inspired by Celtic traditions and even has a dedicated Silence Room – a dark room designed to induce a healthy sleep – the most important precondition for regeneration. The retreat features 62 luxury suites, all with panoramic views of the UNESCO world heritage Dolomites. The CO2 neutral FORESTIS building uses 100% renewable energy, produced by the retreat’s own plant and wood heating system, while the exteriors and interiors are created using local South Tyrolean suppliers and ecofriendly materials. Surrounding the retreat are the felled trees which are used as fences, with two new plantings made for each tree used. Experience a remote stay with Odles Lodge chalets For a more remote winter break, stay in FORESTIS new Odles Lodge, the ultimate adults-only chalet situated just a few kilometres above FORESTIS with exclusive spa facilities and amenities. Featuring four distinct lodges with panoramic views, the privacy of the chalets offers a more remote experience in the mountain. Guests can also enjoy the dining, spa facilities and treatments at FORESTIS.

Get active in Winter Wonderland Explore the tranquil environment with various winter activities. With ski-in, ski-out facilities leading to the Plose mountain, guests can reach 45 kilometres of ski slopes where they will also find cosy mountain huts offering local cuisine, hot drinks and great views of the surrounding mountains along the slopes.

The densely forested environment of FORESTIS also lends itself to meditative winter sports, such as snowshoeing or ski touring. FORESTIS hiking guides lead excursions over frozen brooks, past snow-covered woodland and untouched snow fields, directly through the UNESCO natural heritage in South Tyrol. Meanwhile, scenic ski tours allow guests to climb through dense forests to beautiful vantage points and back down to the ski hut.

Spa treatments: Bringing the outside indoors Indulge in year-round wellness programmes inspired by Celtic traditions and their natural doctrine, with the FORESTIS Spa concept based on four native trees: mountain pine, spruce, larch and Swiss pine. Try FORESTIS’ iconic Tree Circle Ceremony, where you will choose one of the four heeling woods, a decision made intuitively according to guests’ current needs.

All FORESTIS treatments are based on the principle of the four trees, the four healing woods, the four healing stones, and the four tree frequencies. Other treatments include combinations of aromatherapy and tree frequencies, energy flow massages and mountain pine body scrubs. Inspired by the Celtic Druids, FORESTIS also offers Wyda - the movement theory of the Celtic Druids, helping you achieve harmony and contentment through mindfulness. Treat your tastebuds FORESTIS Head Chef Roland Lamprecht, a native of South Tyrol, takes inspiration from his natural surroundings by sourcing only local produce from nearby suppliers and the FORESTIS garden, to maintain his passion for organic cuisine. Roland’s unique ‘Forest Cuisine’ dining experience uses foraged ingredients in the most creative and delicious way, from the spruce sprouts with their subtle citrus notes to the wide variety of local mushrooms and aromatic wild herbs. FORESTIS also maintains a zero plastic, no-waste policy throughout the retreat. BOOK IT

Odles Lodge starts from 550 euros per night (approx. £478). This includes breakfast.

FORESTIS starts from 720 euros per night (approx. £626). This includes breakfast & dinner. For more information about FORESTIS, please visit: www.forestis.it

For more information about Odles Lodge, please visit: www.odleslodge.it/en

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Cape of Senses is the Ultimate Place to

Stay in Lake Garda

Cape of Senses, Lake Garda’s new five-star, adult only spa hideaway, has launched new wellness packages, with a host of experiences on offer if you’re looking to escape this winter.

Having opened its doors to guests in July 2023, the relaxing retreat is situated 200 metres above Lake Garda on the east side. The hotel offers spectacular views of the lake and mountains, encouraging guests to slow down and reconnect with their senses. The familyowned property features 55 spacious, modern suites with key features ranging from private pools and Jacuzzi's to wellbeing rooms and lounge areas, with rooftop terraces to watch the unmissable sunset.

Spa Guests are invited to unwind at the outdoor, private heated infinity pool and jacuzzi with full 180-degree views overlooking the lake, or venture inside to the connected indoor pool. The 2,000sqm Senses Spa offers a holistic spa concept with an extensive range of facilities including pools, a sauna, a fitness area, treatment rooms, yoga area and relaxation rooms. A variety of treatments are available using natural, sustainably sourced products that are designed to engage the senses while encourage long-lasting wellbeing. Food There is a choice of two restaurants, where guests can experience fine dining and locally sourced Mediterranean cuisine. The first is the Osteria La Pergola, whilst the second is the lake-view Al Tramonto (translating to ‘at sunset’), named to pay homage to its privileged position on the lake where you can marvel at the sunset. Alternatively, guests are also able to enjoy breakfast at the rooftop garden or in the comfort of their own private suites. A lounge bar and bistro area serve light refreshments while post dining, guests can take a leisurely walk around the hotel’s gardens, taking in the aromatic scents of the Italian lemons and olive trees.

Experiences Guests can enjoy a host of experiences from hiking tours, golf, yoga and meditation, with more available to book through the hotel’s concierge service. Embark on an e-bike tour along the winding roads that boarder stunning views of the lake, or an e-vespa excursion to the iconic olive tree groves. Learn about the authentic flavours of Lake Garda with a cooking class, or visit the winery “Zeni” to immerse yourself in local wines and traditional culinary delights.

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Afterwards, take a trip to the distillery “Gobetti” to try all their locally produced liquors.

Local tours to Verona (25 minutes away), Torri del Benaco, Garda, Venice and Milan are available, so why not enjoy a magical trip to Verona to the Palazzo Casa Maffei, before sipping an aperitif at the Ristorante Maffei” and exploring the local Christmas markets with a lake view. BOOK IT

The Discover True Wellbeing break is a must for those looking to have a self-care break. Designed to nourish the body and mind, guests can immerse themselves in five restorative and purifying treatments, from a deep tissue massage, traditional Senses Pinda ritual to back massage and reflexology. For five nights for two people prices start from £3,448.86 including breakfast. Available on all bookable days.

For more information on Cape of Senses, please visit: www.capeofsenses.com

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The Great Outdoors and

Relaxing Apres

To beat the new year blues, the Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire invites guests to experience the ultimate Winter Escape with its Winter Lodge & Adventure Pass package -offering the best of seasonal country pursuits with a complimentary room upgrade for an extra luxurious stay. From 7 January to 14 March, this all-encompassing pass will channel guests’ adventurous spirit through a range of experiences on Gleneagles’ legendary 850-acre estate. The cosy pop-up Winter Lodge, complete with roaring fires, will offer the perfect spot in which to unwind after a day in the great outdoors, complete with live music, board games and fireside tipples for the ultimate decompress. Guests will begin their day in the adults-only Winter Lodge (exclusive to Adventure Pass holders), open from 12.00pm until 6.30pm, Sunday through to Thursday where complimentary tea, coffee and scrumptious home-baked cake await. As the winter skies darken, Adventure Pass holders can opt for a firelit falconry display showcasing the handsome Harris Hawks and Golden Eagles, or can attempt to master the skill of Axe Throwing with a Gleneagles instructor, who will demonstrate how to wield the mighty tomahawk axe in a supervised free-throwing session. The late afternoons are dedicated to live music and games of Ring Toss, Scrabble, cards or dominoes, accompanied by a complimentary fine Macallan whisky cocktail and a sharing charcuterie board by the roaring fire back in the Winter Lodge – an ideal way to unwind after a day of adventures.

Following a relaxing overnight stay in a glorious Manor Room and a hearty breakfast, guests can enjoy a guided ramble across the estate with the Gleneagles’ team, providing ample opportunity to spot local wildlife and soak up the scenic snowcapped hills and Munros of Perthshire.

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Beyond the Winter Lodge & Adventure Pass, guests can choose to expand their itinerary with the choice of over 50 country pursuits led by the resident expert team - from casting fishing flies at Laich Loch to cracking clays and shooting arrows at the shooting range. No matter what age or experience level, there are endless opportunities to reconnect with nature and revel in the magic of the Scottish Highlands.

Adventure Pass holders will enjoy: • A complimentary upgrade to one of the hotel’s luxurious Manor Rooms, including a hearty Scottish breakfast • Access to the seasonal Winter Lodge (from 12.00pm until 6.30pm) including traditional games and live entertainment • Complimentary tea, coffee and scrumptious home baked cake in the Winter Lodge • A fine Macallan whisky cocktail per person in the Winter Lodge • A sharing charcuterie board • A Bird of Prey Display or a Tomahawk Axe Throwing experience • A magical guided winter walk on the 850-acre Gleneagles estate • Access to all wellness facilities at The Spa at Gleneagles including gym, sauna and swimming pools BOOK IT

The Winter Lodge & Adventure Pass is available Sunday to Thursday from 7 January to 14 March 2024 (excluding 11-22 February), with rates starting from £350 based on two sharing on a B&B basis. For more information or to book, visit www.gleneagles.com

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A New Era in Nordic Luxury at

The Hotel Maria in Helsinki The heart of Helsinki begins a new chapter in luxury Nordic hospitality with the opening of The Hotel Maria last month. Proudly joining Preferred Hotels & Resorts' prestigious Legend Collection, this urban sanctuary seamlessly melds contemporary elegance with the echoes of its storied past in the city’s historic Kruununhaka district. Featuring 117 rooms, including 38 lavish suites, two restaurants, a grand ballroom, serene chapel, state-of-the-art spa, and a destination boutique showcasing jewellery of Faberge and esteemed Finnish designers.

Nestled in a country consistently celebrated as the world's happiest, The Hotel Maria invites guests to immerse themselves in the captivating essence of the region. With bespoke experiences and wellness at its core, The Hotel Maria serves as an ideal starting point to discover the best of the Nordics or as a home base to explore the cultural and natural wonders of Finland’s capital city. As the first hotel in the Nordics to offer a Wellness Concierge, The Hotel Maria offers highly personalised programs including specially tailored jet lag treatments and nutrition programmes, a weekly Run Club, insuite spa treatments, Spa Suites with private saunas or steam rooms and large soaking tubs, together taking the mind-body experience to the next level.

Classic Finnish Charm Meets American Luxury The Hotel Maria is a collection of four architecturally and historically prominent buildings dating back to 1885, protected by The Finnish Heritage Agency. The design concept gracefully balances stately, historic architecture with refined modern furnishings, elevating the definition of modern luxury in Helsinki. With interiors by Head Designer Jana Sasko and Puroplan, one of Finland’s leading interior design firms, The Hotel Maria strikingly blends Finnish culture with American style and extra spacious standards. Many of the site’s original features are celebrated throughout the design, with traditional ornate wall and ceiling details dressed in fresh shades of white and neutral, creating a cohesive and timeless backdrop for the overall aesthetic. Into this crisp envelope, the design layers an array of supple textures, accented with natural woods and hand-forged metals, all crowned with an eclectic, extensive collection of contemporary lighting.

The Ultimate Setting for Elevated Stays The Hotel Maria offers a variety of accommodation options, including more suites than any other hotel in Helsinki and guest rooms that provide double the space of typical Finnish hotels, with an average size exceeding 460 square feet. Room features include large "American-style" beds, state-of-the-art technology, and spacious spa-like marble bathrooms, most with extra-large soaking tubs, electric fireplaces bath televisions, and 19 suites are equipped with their own private traditional Finnish saunas or steam rooms as well. Guests can choose from three categories of thoughtfully designed guestrooms and a wide selection of suites, including tranquil Spa Suites, some which span two floors and feature saunas or steam rooms. A collection of 14 signature suites provides the ultimate indulgent retreat. The Maria Signature Suite (753-926 sq ft) boasts a chic and inviting living area ideal for entertaining, while the The Penthouse Suite (947 sq ft) wows with floor-to-ceiling windows, a premium kitchen and dining table ideal for in-suite private dining or a private chef experience. Undoubtedly the pinnacle of luxury and arguably the best suite in Finland, The Maria Imperial Suite (1,722 sq ft) provides a first-class experience with a private butler, two insuite soaking tubs, a steam room, library, two living areas, and a grand dining room with seating for up to 10, ideal for entertaining friends or hosting meetings. The Maria Spa The Hotel Maria is committed to holistic wellbeing, exemplified by the on-site spa, Maria Spa. It features a large coed Finnish sauna, a uniquely designed steam room, cold and warm water plunge pools, Jacuzzi, and a greenery-filled fully enclosed atrium sanctuary with Spa Bar. Indulgent signature skin and body treatments, such as the Luminizer Massage, Arctic Healing with Maria and Nordic Vitality Facial, take place in four treatment rooms with luxury products from the exclusive Biologique Recherche range. The Maria Spa is opening in December 2023 and the wellness options will expand further in June 2024 by the opening of The Wellness Club, which will offer a design forward fitness space with best-in-class equipment and unique training programs for guests and locals alike.

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Sophisticated Culinary Experiences Leading the hotel's food and beverage offerings is its signature restaurant, Lilja, helmed by Head Chef Ville Rainio. With extensive culinary experience from acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe, including the world-renowned Noma in Copenhagen, voted as the World’s Best Restaurant, Chef Ville takes diners on a gastronomic journey inspired by the traditions of French cuisine. Lilja's seasonal menu showcases the finest produce from Finland and regions nearby, featuring sumptuous signature dishes where seasons are the focal point for creativity. For more intimate dining, there is Lilja's elegant private dining room, Valley, with seating for up to 12, or guests can enjoy the full Lilja menu in the comfort of their rooms.

Culinary delights also await at the brasserie style Garden Terrace, an inviting space adorned with lush greenery, hanging lanterns, and plush Chesterfield sofas, where guests can enjoy afternoon tea or savor dishes from an elevated all-day dining menu inspired by classic international and Nordic cuisine, while Bar Maria is a chic lounge inspired by the Arctic, specialising in Champagne (many by the glass) and caviar, providing a refined setting for extravagant afternoons with the enchanting backdrop of snow white chandeliers casting a soft glow over the grand piano. Every moment here is about celebrating life’s finest pleasures. Sustainability The hotel is dedicated to minimising environmental impact and embracing social responsibility. It features energy-efficient lighting, cutting-edge indoor climate control, and renewable energy sources, creating an eco-conscious haven. Recycling programmes and partnerships with local artisans contribute to a sustainable future. Transparent practices, continuous improvement, and guest engagement drive this exceptional sustainable journey at The Hotel Maria. BOOK IT

Prices start from € 452 / £390 including taxes and breakfast for two. For more information and reservations, please visit www.hotelmaria.fi.

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The St. Regis Red Sea Resort to Open in

The Red Sea This year St. Regis Hotels and Resorts is set to unveil The St. Regis Red Sea Resort. Situated on the pristine Ummahat Island in the Al Wajh Lagoon, the resort will be the first private island from which global luminaries will be able to discover The Red Sea, one of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s luxury regenerative tourism destinations on the west coast of the country.

The Red Sea is surrounded by the world's fourth-largest barrier reef system and spans over 28,000 square kilometres with an archipelago of more than 90 untouched islands. Ummahat Island is fringed by abundant wildlife, marine ecosystems and natural marvels. Guests will be able to snorkel amongst preserved coral reefs, obtain PADI certifications, and embark on scuba diving expeditions to nearby wrecks and discovery sites, including the Blue Hole, a large natural marine cavern adjacent to the resort. The island’s crystal-clear, vivid blue water can also be enjoyed by an array of water sports including stand-up paddle boarding, sailing, windsurfing and kayaking. Excursions to the mainland via a short trip by chartered boat will offer guests the opportunity to explore dormant volcanoes, heritage sites and sweeping desert dunes.

“The Red Sea is an exciting new destination for global travellers to immerse themselves in an undiscovered part of the world,” said Helen Leighton, Vice President, Luxury Brands, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “As a gateway to the untapped wonders of the Red Sea, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort is a new glamorous island address that captures the sophistication of the St. Regis brand and its legacy of exquisite experiences.”

Central to the destination's mission of preserving its precious natural surroundings and enhancing key habitats that enable biodiversity to flourish are a number of projects and collaborations with key partners like the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and UK marine robotics company VAARST, whose SubSLAM® technology is hard at work capturing 3D images of the thriving coral across the entire Al Wajh Lagoon. Earlier this year, a mangrove nursery opened on the coast to support the growth of 50 million mangroves by 2030, with the first one million seedlings already planted. This is in addition to The Red Sea being home to the largest landscape nursery in the region which has grown more than five million plants, shrubs and trees to green the destination. These partnerships underpin the resort's commitment to marine conservation and ecological sustainability and aligns with the broader vision of creating diverse opportunities for young Saudi Arabian talent. Harnessing innovative technology to create a sustainable destination began at the early stages of the resort’s development. The island resort will be powered by one hundred percent renewable energy generated by solar power and one of the world's largest battery storage facilities situated on the mainland. Emphasis on waste reduction and recycling will be at the heart of daily operations to deliver advanced water treatment and comprehensive waste management solutions, and a plastic-free environment. As a result of the destination-wide commitment to preserving the region’s dark skies, The Red Sea is set to become the largest certified Dark Sky Reserve in the world.

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Accessed by chartered boat or seaplane, after arriving at the newly opened Red Sea International Airport (RSI), The St. Regis Red Sea Resort will feature a collection of 90 spacious beachfront and overwater villas, offering elegant one-to-four-bedroom accommodation, each with a private pool and sundeck. Every stay will be enhanced by the renowned St. Regis Butler service and a curated selection of signature rituals. The resort’s interiors have been developed in accordance with LEED platinum certification guidelines. The certification creates healthy, highly efficient, cost-saving green buildings that improve environmental performance from carbon footprint to indoor environmental quality. In addition, the resort will feature five restaurants offering unique culinary concepts and will serve produce sourced from local farms and fishermen, two outdoor pools, a high-tech fitness centre, a signature spa and children’s club.

“As the first island resort scheduled to open in The Red Sea, we are pioneering a new era of sustainable luxury in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” said Tony Coveney, Multi-Property General Manager. “From the resort’s avant-garde architecture and bespoke service to eco-conscious initiatives and specially curated adventures, we are introducing a new escape to the extraordinary and we look forward to welcoming guests to experience this part of the world for the first time.” The resort is an idyllic serene getaway offering an array of specially tailored packages. The Romantic Paradise Escape package offers couples an intimate setting amidst the pristine beauty of the Red Sea, complete with romantic dinners and private excursions. The Blissful Red Sea Journey package offers guests a different immersive experience centred around exploring the wonders of The Red Sea while indulging in the luxury and comfort of the resort. BOOK IT

Prices start from $1333 (5000 SAR) per night. To book visit www.marriott.com.

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A Package Full of Romance at

The Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf St Barth's

What do you have planned for your Valentine for 14 February this year? What if, this time, you marked the occasion in style by offering your partner the best of Valentine gifts, namely quality time together courtesy of the Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf St Barth's Valentine's Day package? This 2-night stay in a Junior Suite allows you to share some truly memorable moments! This 5-star Caribbean hotel excels in providing unforgettable experiences. For example, the sunsets in this part of the world are simply magical. Take a seat on your suite's private terrace facing the bay of Gustavia, the island's capital, and allow your gaze to drift over the town's rooftops, admiring the flamboyant canna lilies and frangipani trees as the sun dips into the sea, turning the sky into a blaze of colour. Pure poetry! Delicious Cuisine More pleasure awaits at the hotel's private beach, the unique Shellona Beach Club. Here, you'll find sun-loungers arranged on Shell Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in the French Caribbean, where the white sand blends with thousands upon thousands of finely crushed mother-of-pearl shells. You're guaranteed to fall in love with this idyllic setting. But there's more to come. Firstly, you'll find it impossible to resist the lure of the turquoise waters that provide cool respite from the heat of the sun. Then later, at lunchtime, you'll be tempted by the delicious cuisine prepared by chef Yiannis Kioroglou. Thanks to his early years spent in Greece, growing up on the shores of the Mediterranean, this chef enjoys nothing more than combining Caribbean ingredients with the flavours of his childhood.

The Beefbar St Barth invites you to a different kind of meal altogether. Situated in the heart of Le Carl Gustaf and boasting superb views, this gourmet restaurant is the first of its kind in

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the Caribbean, offering a style of cuisine that has been hugely successful around the world, from Hong Kong to Paris, and Dubai to São Paulo. Originally created in Monaco by Ricardo Giraudi, the Beefbar combines three unbeatable ingredients - a festive atmosphere, fusion cuisine and a selection of top-quality beef from the best cattle in the world, including Wagyu, Black Angus and Kobe. Thanks to this superb trilogy, the Beefbar brand came top in the “World's 101 best steak restaurant” awards, a title contested by around 800 different restaurants. Tempting Pleasures And there's no need to break the bank to enjoy its top-quality beef - dinner for two at the Beefbar Saint-Barth is included in this Valentine's Day special offer, along with other tempting attractions. Your stay at Le Carl starts with the pleasant surprise of an upgrade (subject to availability). Then, when you step into your cocoon you'll be met by a host of romantic details, such as a beautiful bouquet of roses and a bottle of Charles Heidsieck champagne to add a sparkling touch to your arrival. A selection of sweet treats provides the icing on the cake.

In addition to these small touches, the Valentine's Day package also includes two enchanting experiences. The first awaits at the Diane Barrière spa, Le Carl Gustaf's temple of wellbeing and beauty, where you can relax and unwind with a couples' treatment. The second takes you out to sea on a boat trip to admire the sunset while savouring a gourmet apéritif. Surely this is the perfect moment, if you haven't already done so, to whisper those three simple yet highly significant and romantic words into the ear of your loved one! BOOK IT

The Valentine’s package is priced at 8,455 euros for two and is available between the 7th and the 21st of February 2024.

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

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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

Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) This month will activate your house of creativity, urging a cycle of change in the way you live your life. New and interesting projects or social activities will be on the cards for some. Investment or speculative endeavours may be the call for others. Someone new or different may be woven into the pattern of your life so fast that you won't have time to catch your breath. Favourable Dates: January 6, 9, 15, 18, 24, 27 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Green

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Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) This will be a lucky time where opportunity is concerned. There could be surprises or unexpected elevations in work that may change your financial situation with some speed. You will simply have the fruit of your efforts in the long term if you persist until all is done. Creative projects may receive a boost with a renewal of energy. Leisure pastimes may flourish and leave you feeling renewed. Favourable Dates: January 3, 9, 12, 18, 21, 27 Favourable Colours: Blue & Red Pisces (19 February – 20 March) This month will be filled with action and new beginnings. Be dynamic! Take new directions with vigour. You may take a new path or hit a new level of operation. New vistas could open before you or new horizons may beckon. This is a better time for romantic adventures to prosper. Make sure you know and understand what you're getting into, for not everything that beguiles you will turn out to be what it seems. Favourable Dates: January 3, 5, 12, 14, 21, 23 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Red

Aries (21 March – 19 April) It's a time of new ideas, new ways of doing and seeing things and a revised perspective on your relationship with the wider community. There can be new creative or spiritual influences that play a part in this, but there can also be losses, sorrows and change on a scale that you simply must learn to accept. The trick will be to seize the opportunity and the money will come further down the track. Favourable Dates: January 1, 5, 10, 23, 19, 23 Favourable Colours: Green & White Taurus (20 April – 20 May) There are opportunities aplenty as long as your conduct is impeccable. New friends and connections will bring new ideas. New ideas or aspirations will illuminate and uplift you. Success among your peers or in the wider cosmos will come for some. Be guided by the highest ideals. You will flourish and grow both in friendship and personal success if you do. Women may feature strongly in the home or your emotional life. Favourable Dates: January 4, 8, 13, 17, 22, 26 Favourable Colours: Red & Green

Gemini (21 May – 20 June) You may find that people from past contacts come back into your life unexpectedly. In some instances, they will bring outstanding baggage. There may be unexpected travel while for others travel arrangements could be subject to delay or change. The radical change will take you in midstride while others will consciously decide upon change in accordance with urges from within. Relationships may be influenced by money matters. Favourable Dates: January 2, 3, 11, 12, 20, 21 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue Cancer (21 June – 22 July) This could be an unsettled time, with a lot of restlessness in the air. You can forge ahead from here if you're prepared to set out on a new or different course. Some may take up the cudgel and get involved in the wider community,

striking blows for new practices and ideas. Others may conceive a new and fascinating purpose that marks a turning point. Favourable Dates: January 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Blue

Leo (23 July – 22 August) If you take things carefully and get the details right, you'll progress by degrees toward your goals. You would be illadvised to rush into things or push ahead. You may have to watch fatigue or tiredness this month. Your powers of endurance are good, but you may find that too much outward activity or involvement without a break to refresh and recuperate will take you to the limit. Favourable Dates: January 7, 9, 16, 27, 25, 27 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Red Virgo (23 August – 22 September) This is a time to open to wider horizons and to study or learn whatever it is you need to set you on the upward road. This period will bring growth, expansion and opportunity for those prepared to take the adventurous course. This is a time in which love must take up the mantle of responsibility and you will have the benefit of a friend and true romance of your mate. Favourable Dates: January 1, 5, 10, 14, 19, 23 Favourable Colours: Blue & White

Libra (23 September – 22 October) If you're in for the long haul and set something important and meaningful in motion, you'll be richly rewarded in time. Romance, creativity, leisure activity and children will be preferred options or points of impact. If you're in a relationship, do something that adds texture or interest to your lives. Recreational activities, creative endeavours or gatherings with friends can enhance your quality of life. Intuitive responses will be rewarding. Favourable Dates: January 4, 8, 13, 17, 21, 26 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue

Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) This period can be a journey where you have to face fears or break past patterns. Use your dreams to seek guidance or advice about the best course of action or the right decision. You may need to take a new level of authority in what you do. Set a new pattern that marks a clear break from the problems or troubles of the past. Favourable Dates: January 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Brown

Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) You may need to look at shared goals or interests with your nearest and dearest. For some, there could be a feeling of wellbeing as you work towards a common purpose. 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. This is not a time for rash decisions, especially where money is concerned. Favourable Dates: January 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Red

manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

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Weekend Starts Here.... The Only Suspect by Louise Candlish Wrong time. Wrong place. Wrong man.

Alex lives a comfortable life with his wife Beth in the leafy suburb of Silver Vale. Fine, so he’s not the most sociable guy on the street, he prefers to keep himself to himself, but he’s a good husband and an easy-going neighbour. That’s until Beth announces the creation of a nature trail on a local site that’s been disused for decades and suddenly Alex is a changed man. Now he’s always watching. Questioning. Struggling to hide his dread . . . As the landscapers get to work, a secret threatens to surface from years ago, back in Alex’s twenties when he got entangled with a seductive young woman called Marina, who threw both their lives into turmoil. And who sparked a police hunt for a murder suspect that was never quite what it seemed. It still isn’t. No one else could have done it. Could they?

Priscilla

When teenage Priscilla Beaulieu meets Elvis Presley at a party, the man who is already a meteoric rock-and-roll superstar becomes someone entirely unexpected in private moments: a thrilling crush, an ally in loneliness, a vulnerable best friend. Through Priscilla’s eyes, Sofia Coppola tells the unseen side of a great American myth in Elvis and Priscilla's long courtship and turbulent marriage, from a German army base to his dream-world estate at Graceland, in this deeply felt and ravishingly detailed portrait of love, fantasy, and fame. Release Date: 5th January

The Royal Hotel

Backpackers Hanna and Liv take a job in a remote Australian pub for some extra cash and are confronted with a bunch of unruly locals and a situation that grows rapidly out of their control. Release Date: 9th January