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PRICELESS
www.affinitymag.co.uk AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
ISSUE 130
FASHION FORWARD Springtime Wardrobe Must-Haves
The WOW Factor at nhow, London Read Our Review WWW.AFFINITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Love Your Home with Marshmallow Calmness, Mango Wood & Blush
MUMMA I LOVE YOU Gifts your mum will love this Mother's Day
LET'S DO LUNCH
with our delicious recipes
ISSUE 130
HOW TO SLEEP BETTER WHEN FLYING
We show you how
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LETTER EDITOR’S
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I'm sure many of you, like me, love this time of year, when the flowers start to bloom, the nights get a little lighter, our homes and wardrobes all have a little spring clean and everything just feels a little fresher. But what about our skincare? Spring's also the perfect time to clean up our skincare routine page 12 tells you more.
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Mother’s Day is once again upon us (27th March) a time to show all those amazing mums out there how much we love and appreciate them (and dads who take on the role of Mum and Dad) – We’ve been busy finding our favourite gifts (page 18) that we know will bring a smile to your mum’s face. If you’re busy planning your getaways for this year we have a great selection of places we’re sure you’ll love, and if you’re feeling an overnight break in the Capital is tempting you, check out our review on the ‘new kid on the block’ nhow, London, a quirky hotel that’ll have you getting curiouser and curiouser around every corner (page 50 tells you more).
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Springtime, is also a time to update your fragrance for something lighter and fresher, whether it’s a quintessential floral fragrance or fresh crisp citrus scent, we’ve rounded up some of our favourites (page 20) – ENJOY! Until Next Month
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Jane x 1. Dolce & Gabbana Sheerlips, £33, www.feelunique.com 2. Cath Kidston Strawberry Garden Pyjamas, £62, www.cathkidston.com 3. Luna Earrings, £115, www.sorujewellery.com 4. The Boss T-Shirt, £40, Donna Ida 5. ESPA Silk Scrunchies, £20, www.espaskincare.com Don’t forget to join us on social media, we love getting to know you!
www.affinitymag.co.uk
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Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 07507 602401 Advertising: affinitymagstewart@gmail.com 07595 894557 Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita dave@affinitymag.co.uk
@affinitymagz
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 18 Affinity
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March 2022
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Sleep Better When Flying Hot Picks Trench Trends Bold & Bright Foodie News Supper and Spice Wines for Springtime Marshmallows Calmness Mango & Blush Everybody is Talking About Jamie Italian Dreams Murder on The Orient Express Your Stars
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On The Cover Carla Ruiz
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How to Sleep Better when Flying As covid restrictions lift and the opportunity to travel returns, countries are opening their borders, which means more people are flying again, whether it be for pleasure or for work. Health expert April Mayer from Amerisleep, reveals tips from frequent and experienced travelers on how to sleep better in the sky.
Do I need a flight pillow? Investing in a decent neck support pillow for flying will be a lifesaver and can help stop any neck pain as it will properly support your neck. It will also help you sleep as you won’t feel the need to fidget to get your head comfortable regularly. You may also find an eye mask useful for light exposure and if you are unable to get a window seat and have control of the blind. How should I buckle my seat belt? How you buckle your seatbelt is important for any chance of a good night’s undisturbed sleep in the sky. The idea is that you should buckle it over your blanket instead of under it, this way flight attendants can see you are wearing it and won’t need to wake you in the case of any turbulence. This will also stop the buckle feeling uncomfortable and awkward whilst you sleep. What clothes should I wear? It’s very important to wear something comfortable, that isn’t too restrictive or stiff such as tight jeans. Layers are important also as it can feel cold after time on a long-haul flight,
this way you also have the option of removing layers if you get too hot.
How and where should I sit? Try to reserve a window seat if you can, this way you can lean on the window if need be and be in control of your light exposure. It’s a good idea to not cross your legs either as this can reduce blood flow in your legs and make you susceptible to blood clots or being in pain when you wake up. Also make sure to recline your chair, as this will put less pressure on your lower spine ensuring a better night’s sleep.
What should I eat? Try not to overindulge before a flight and go for something light, so you’re not bloated and can doze off easier and avoid being kept awake by feeling too full. What should I listen to? Find a podcast you find relaxing and listen to it several times before bed in preparation for your flight. This way you will be familiar with it and associate it with sleep when the time comes to sleep. Noise-cancelling headphones will also help you get a more undisturbed sleep.
Is there anything I can take to help me sleep? Our experts suggest taking a dose of magnesium before take-off. It’s a natural supplement that will make it easier for you to rest easy.
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Beauty NEWS CHARLOTTE TILBURY OR NOT?
SUBSCRIBE TO CANDLES
Light box candles are a new candle subscription brand that is completely sustainable, all candles are completely natural, made from soy wax and free of parabens and hidden nasties. Each light box comes with a beautifully natural artisan candle, with a guarantee of 30-50 hours burn time as well as a pack of light box matches, an information card on your candle, a personalised gift note and a surprise extra treat. Each light box retails at £19.99 (www.lightboxcandles.co.uk) and can be purchased as a one-off treat (for a friend, loved one, or just yourself) or on a 3, 6, or 12 month rolling subscription.
W7 Cosmetics have recently launched a brand-new lipstick ‘Lip Culture Satin Lipstick’ (£5.95) which is a dupe for Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks (RRP: £25.00) The must have Lip Culture Lipsticks are a staple for your makeup bag with a long-lasting formula, and a colour that lasts for hours. The lipsticks come in a range of four shades - First Date, L Word, Spark and Naked Desire.
THE SMOOTHEST SHAVE
With spring and summer on the horizon, it’s nearly time to show some more skin. Beauty brand FFS (Fuss Free Shaving) are delivering beauty essentials to your door for an effortless hair removal experience. Their cruelty free and eco-friendly products give an at home spa experience for the closest shave yet, without the dreaded irritation. FFS also provide a subscription service, catering for those seeking a beauty regime without the faff. Their best-selling Full Shaving Set (£28.00) contains all the essentials as well as: a zinc alloy handle, four premium SmoothGlide Blades, a safety blade cover, shower holder, and travel pouch.
NOURISH YOUR WELLBEING
ESPA have launched four brand new Supplements, including one powder and three elixirs. Harnessing the power of nature’s finest naturals, the versatile vegan-certified supplements are enriched with delicious flavours and mix seamlessly into water, smoothies, recipes, and more. Guided by the wisdom of nutritional experts, dietitians, and biological studies, ESPA's new range of supplements is the key to harmonious, total wellbeing and include Active Nutrients Pro-Glow Beauty & Wellbeing Powder (£45) Active Nutrients Hydration Shot Beauty & Wellbeing Elixir (£50) - Age-Defying Resilience Skin Defence Beauty & Wellbeing Elixir (£62) - Regenerating Skin Renewal Beauty & Wellbeing Elixir (£62) and all available from www.espaskincare.com.
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SPRING CLEAN YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE With Spring finally on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to clean up our skincare routine, kicking any bad habits to the curb and incorporating some good ones in our usual regime!
While our skin is influenced by a range of factors - from genetics to hormones, health conditions and medications external factors, such as the environment, our lifestyle, and behaviours, also play an important role in the appearance of our skin. We spoke to Dr Daron Seukeran, Group Medical Director at sk:n, who shares his expert advice on the habits to adopt – and stop – for a radiant complexion this Spring. With Spring on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to clean up our skincare routine, kicking any bad habits to the curb and incorporating some good ones in our usual regime.
While our skin is influenced by a range of factors, from genetics to hormones, health conditions and medications, external factors, such as the environment, our lifestyle, and behaviours, also play an important role in the appearance of our skin.
The good news? There are plenty of habits that we can adopt – and stop, to help our skin’s health and bring that coveted Spring glow to our complexion.. Let’s start with breaking those bad habits…
Popping Pimples The pimple popping trend is rife on social media, and there is no doubt that when faced with a blemish it is tempting to give it a squeeze. However, it is best to resist this urge, as by tampering with the skin, we allow more bacteria, dirt, and oil to make its way into the pore and effectively make it worse than it was before. If done wrong, popping pimples can have unwanted side effects, leading to infection, residual scarring, and more noticeable or painful acne. It also risks pushing the contents of the spot deeper into the skin, which can in turn increase inflammation and exacerbate acne.
If you suffer with moderate or severe acne and pharmacygrade creams or medication have not helped, avoid picking at the skin and instead consult a dermatologist. They can recommend a course of acne treatment and skincare
products to get the best results for your skin.
For instance, there’s a range of clinic treatments available, such as chemical peels, which can help to improve the skin’s texture and tone, lighten the colour of dark spots, and prevent future breakouts by unclogging pores.
When it comes to acne, a superficial chemical peel that uses salicylic acid can help to minimise spots, while for acne scars, options include medium or deep peels, or for more severe cases, laser based treatments such as Fraxel or CO2RE laser resurfacing. Smoking Many of us are aware that smoking can have a detrimental effect on the body, but the impact on our skin is perhaps less well known. Along with causing serious illnesses, the toxins found in tobacco can damage collagen and elastin production and accelerate the signs of ageing. Smoking also deprives the skin of vital nutrients, causing ‘smoker’s lines,’ and restricting oxygen and blood flow, resulting in a grey, dull complexion. For glowing skin in the long term, it is ultimately best to kick this habit to the kerb!
In the meantime, to combat any premature signs of ageing which may have been caused by smoking, there is a variety of collagen and elastin stimulation treatments which can give your skin a glowing, more youthful appearance,
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including HydraFacial, chemical peels, and microneedling.
In addition, incorporating active ingredients such as retinol, hyaluronic acid, vitamins C, peptides and alpha hydroxy acids (like glycolic and lactic acid) to your skincare regime can also help to prevent and reduce the fine lines and wrinkles caused by smoking. Excessive Alcohol Consumption It will come as little surprise that drinking alcohol can have a harmful effect on the skin. Alcohol consumption has been linked to dehydration and inflammation, reduced immune system function and hormonal imbalances, which can trigger acne and aggressive outbreaks of cysts. It can also deprive the skin of nutrients, water, and oxygen and is a widespread trigger for rosacea, though it can affect certain people more than others. Cutting back on your alcohol intake can restore the skin’s natural vitamins and improve the overall appearance of your complexion.
Dirty Make Up Brushes It’s an easy step to skip in the skincare routine but cleaning make up brushes and sponges regularly is vital for a fresh, glowing skin. Through daily use, these can accumulate dead skin cells, dirt, oil, pollution, and bacteria. Failing to clean tools used to apply makeup can lead to acne, break outs and even wrinkles, by exposing the skin to oxidative stress from free radicals, which can cause a breakdown of collagen and elastin. With this said, thankfully, it’s not all bad news and there are also lots of positive actions we can pick up now to improve the long-term health and appearance of our skin!
Hydrate The skin is made up of around 64% water, however it loses this water constantly throughout the day through regular body functions, such as breathing and sweat. We lose around 300-400ml of water each day by diffusion through the skin. This is known as transepidermal water loss.
Essentially, the top layer of the skin, called the stratum corneum, is made up of skin cells and lipids. Imagine the skin cells as ‘bricks’ and lipids as ‘mortar’ holding bricks together. This creates a waxy coating, which helps to prevent water loss through the skin. When the skin becomes dry a n d dehydrated, this barrier function can be disturbed, causing inflammation and irritation.
If you fail to drink enough water, the skin may also become dehydrated, causing itchiness, dullness, under-eye circles, sunken eyes, and more noticeable fine lines. To keep skin moist and dewy, aim to drink 6 – 8 glasses of water each day. Along with upping your water intake, invest in a good moisturiser which can help to restore the skin’s barrier and prevent water loss from the skin. When picking a moisturiser, look out for occlusive ingredients such as petrolatum, lanolin or mineral oils, or ingredients that attract moisture from a surrounding humid environment, such as glycerine, urea, and hyaluronic acid.
You could also consider incorporating regular facials, such as a HydraFacial, into your skincare regime can help to boost the skin’s hydration. This uses six steps to refresh dull skin and protect against environmental factors, leaving the skin looking radiant! Cleanse Regularly For clear, naturally radiant skin, adopting a thorough cleansing routine is key. This helps to remove bacteria, oil, and dead cells from the surface of the skin. While poor cleansing methods including the use of make-up wipes - can r e m o v e make-up from the top layer of the skin, they will not penetrate deep into the skin’s pores, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.
For best results, try double cleansing to ensure all makeup, dirt and access oils are removed. Using a cleanser that contains glycolic or salicylic acid is best for breaking down any oil but take care to avoid any exfoliants that can dry out your skin. Using products that are too harsh can also impair the cell structure of the skin and diminish the barrier function of the epidermis layer. Finally, after cleansing, massage the face in a circular motion to get blood flowing and don’t forget to apply a moisturiser! Wear SPF, Always The sun contains harmful UV rays, which can cause burning, sun damage, and exacerbate visible signs of aging. For glowing skin, protection against the sun is vital, as intermittent Spring sun can still cause damage and increase the risk of melanoma. It’s important to get into a good routine, applying an SPF 30 or higher all year round if you want to keep your skin looking fresh and radiant. For more useful tips and advice, visit www.sknclinics.co.uk
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Midlife Madness I’m sure we are all aware that exercise is good for us – move more, eat less etc. Not only is it good for our bodies but it’s also good for our mental health in that it can release a lot of feel good chemicals into the brain so we’d be silly not to exercise, right? BUT it can be darned dangerous too. Due to a particular medical condition I’ve not been able to exercise over the last couple of years quite as much as I used to before I had this condition. I’ve continued to enjoy daily walks and I can say with honesty, I do enjoy those especially if there is a bit of sun and I can go into the woods. But I thought to myself its high time I got back to something more strenuous. So, I opted for lane swimming and yoga. They sound fairly low key really - no rushing off to train for a marathon or lift twice my own bodyweight!! But I couldn’t have been more wrong.
Let’s start with the swimming. I must confess to feeling quite excited about the whole thing. That was before I tried on my swimming costume – which had somehow morphed into a spanx – so hard to put on. I didn’t really think swimming costumes could shrink when simply stored under the bed for a few (well a lot of) months. I then had this thought that maybe it was my body and not the swimming costume that had changed! I decided that I’d stick with the slow lane. Second shock was how cold the water was – my last swimming experience had been in the Algarve when temperatures were HOT and although the water was probably cold it felt entirely different – I wanted the water to be fairly cold so it would cool me down. Clearly not the same on a January night in England.
The slow lane was surprisingly full and I was especially slow – there were times I had to ask myself if I was in fact moving at all. I don’t have a problem with people overtaking me and generally the other ‘slow’ swimmers were pretty sedate so not very ‘splashy’. Not the case for those in the next lane and we had to swim right next to them for the return length. Now, being constantly doused with cold water from the next lane by the ‘butterfly’ swimmers was most definitely not fun. Still worse was yet to come when I discovered the lady’s showers weren’t operational! I did return, such is my dedication, but it was more with of a sense of dogged determination than excitement. So, to the yoga. What could be wrong with gently bending and stretching! Well, firstly my body seems to have forgotten how to bend and stretch. I wouldn’t really class myself as someone who is competitive, others may disagree! It absolutely didn’t bother me that others could do headstands! But I’m also a bit lacking in co-ordination and when you are following the instructor who is sort of the wrong way around, I was invariably finding I was going the wrong way (as in bending the wrong side, raising the wrong leg) to the rest of the class. But what was most distressing was after trying really hard to get into a particular pose I finally achieved it just as everyone else was coming out of it. When I got home I was utterly exhausted so it must have done me good! But, I don’t intend to give up I will just accept that my downward dog is more like a dachshund lying down, my swan pose is more like a distressed duck and as for the tree, well they do fall don’t they! The part I really excel at is the relaxation at the end – I have discovered I can lie on my back, with my eyes closed and breathe deeply like a PRO. So, it must be doing me good!
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AESOP Reverence Duet, £87, www.aesop.com
Fruity Sleekster, £23.50, Hotel Chocolat
AFFINITY HOT PICKS
Lidded Candle, £11, Habitat
Givenchy Gold Sunglasses, £206, www.watchpilot.co.uk
TAG Heuer Ladies Watch, £1,095, www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com
Belted Jacket, £950, Moncler
This month’s must have gifts and accessories
Brushstrokes Cushion, £14.99, Dobbies
Dior Eyeshadow Palette, £49.50, Selfridges
Fujifilm Hybrid Camera, £149.99, Selfridges
Coach Bag, £695, Selfridges
Zig Zag Cardigan, £34.99, M&Co
UGG Sheepskin Sliders, £100, Selfridges
Hoop Earrings, £85, Beaverbrooks
Be Fierce T-Shirt, POA, River Island
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It’s Okay to be Okay! First, I need to start by saying it is absolutely okay NOT to be okay. We read that a lot and it is a huge improvement on a few decades ago when people felt they needed to always pretend, however dire they may be feeling that they were okay. After all we have not been a culture that has been very open about emotions.
It’s hard to believe that in 2018 suicide (and injury or poisoning of indeterminate intent) was the biggest killer for men and women aged 20 to 34 years. We may have got a bit better but there is still a long way to go. If you check out Facebook or Instagram you will see lots of exhortations to be honest about how we feel, to cut ourselves some slack and be kind to ourselves and that is all very sound – but there comes a point for most of us, unless problems are very severe, when we need to get on with life and manage our feelings, perhaps with support, but get on we must.
But acknowledging that it can be good to talk about our emotions and that we don’t always have to say ‘fine’ when asked how we are, doesn’t mean that it is not also okay to NOT divulge everything, to still say ‘fine’ some of the time because it is always up to us to tell people what we want and keep to ourselves what we want. In fact, sometimes talking about our problems repeatedly can definitely make them seem worse because we end up dwelling on them.
Like lots of areas of life it is about balance. When it comes to emotions it is important we express them safely in ways that don’t hurt ourselves or others but we also need to learn to manage or regulate them. Life will be forever throwing things at us that causes us to respond emotionally. But we can learn to manage those, at least to some extent.
Let’s be clear that managing or regulating emotions doesn’t mean supressing them or never expressing them. It means we have developed the capacity to regulate ourselves in the moment but we will still need to express those emotions if we are to stay well.
If we were to go about telling everyone our most raw emotions we could feel very emotionally unsafe and that in turn could lead to more hurt. What is more effective is to develop an inner sense of security and confidence which comes from an understanding, and experience, that we can indeed cope with the emotions that can rock us. But how do we go about developing emotional strength
and resilience. Unsurprisingly it is a little different for everyone but there are some general principles. Although we often talk about physical or mental wellbeing we know that we are whole people and our physical health can impact our mental health and vice versa.
To be emotionally robust it is wise to invest in our physical bodies, making sure we are getting enough sleep, a good diet and some exercise. Being in nature, being with friends, being creative will benefit us all physically and mentally. If we then go to add in some things specifically for our mind such as meditation or breathing exercises these can also help us to cope when emotions feel overwhelming
But there are also elements of how we deal with emotions that may have come from our past and our mindsets. If as a child you grew up with trauma or in a household that was very unpredictable or chaotic that can have an impact on how we respond to emotions. Let’s be honest emotions can feel frightening. At some point in life getting some help to deal with the past and the trauma may be useful, but it might not be a quick fix.
Others may have grown up with a mindset that either emotions are incredibly frightening or that showing emotions denotes weakness. But hopefully we all know now that this is not the case.
When faced with the really tough times it is worth remembering that for most of us, as adults, we will have faced tough times before and somehow or other we will have survived. Some days we need to remind ourselves of that Life is nothing if not uncertain but I imagine most people reading this will have had a fair bit of practice at the business of living with the ups and downs that it entails.
So, it is perfectly okay NOT to be okay but it is also perfectly okay to grab yourself by your metaphorical shoelaces, remind yourself you are stronger than you think, and get on with your day. As in so many other areas of life – it is entirely up to you! For tips and hints to help you live a more fulfilling positive life join our face book group www.facebook.com/groups/AAYGroup
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Elemis Skin Wellness Collection, £55, www.elemis.com
MUM’S THE WORD This month is Mother’s Day (27th March), which means only one thing, it’s time to spoil all those amazing mummy’s out there. We’ve put together some of our favourite gifts
Diptyque Chamomile Candle, £60, Selfridges
Silver Bee Bracelet, £79.50, www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com
Rhubarb Rhubarb Noble Isle Scented Reed Diffuser, £49, www.nobleisle.com
ELEMIS Modern English Rose Body Duo, £39, www.elemis.com
Guylian Master’s Selection, £8, Ocado ESPA Silk Pyjamas, £190, www.espaskincare.com
Elisse Pink Trainers, £65, Dune London
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Clogau Tree of Life Initial Necklace, £149, www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com
Pink Marmalade Gin, £30, www.pinkmarmaladegin.co.uk
Pommery Brut Rose Champagne, £49.99, Ocado
Cleo Bag, £129, Aurora London
Skagen Sea Glass Ring, £49, www.fossilgroup.com
Volant Diffuser, £105, Oil, from £18, www. volantaroma.co.uk
Tea Rose Duo Gift Box, £35, www.nobleisle.com
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Springtime
Scents
It’s springtime, which means it’s time to update your fragrance for something lighter and fresher, whether it’s a quintessential floral fragrance or fresh crisp citrus scent, we’ve rounded up our favourites
Gucci Bloom, £52.99, www.perfumedirect.com
Aerin Fleur De Peony Parfum, £145, Selfridges Floral Street Arizona Bloom, £100, www.feelunique.com Tom Ford Private Rose Garden, £178, John Lewis
Tiffany & Love for Her, £77, Selfridges
Gucci The Alchemist's Garden, £240, John Lewis Michael Kors Gorgeous, £52, Boots
MARC JACOBS Daisy Love Spring, £60, John Lewis
Jo Malone Sea Daffofil Cologne, £112, www.jomalone.co.uk.
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FASHION
River Island
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A BRITISH CLASSIC
The trench coat is a quintessential part of a classic wardrobe. It easily covers all bases; everyday casual, smart evening chic and classic city looks, it’s a definite for Spring.
Grey Trench, £660, A Line Stone Trench, £49.99, New Look
Blue Trench, £69.99, TK Maxx
Ted Baker
Navy Trench, £199, Hobbs
Khaki Trench, £260, Selfridges
Sand Trench, £75, Lipsy White Trench, £225, Ted Baker
Green PU Trench, £99, Monsoon
Wool Trench, £475, Ted Baker
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THE BOILER SUIT TREND
A hardworking addition to your wardrobe, the boiler suit is an effortlessly chic (and practical) option for any occasion
Red Denim Boilersuit, £149, Selfridges
Black Boilersuit, £89.99, Superdry Lime Boilersuit, £55, Dancing Leopard
Sonder Studio
Cream Boilersuit, £149, Ted Baker
Camel Jumpsuit, £44, John Lewis
Denim Jumpsuit, £49.50, Marks & Spencer
Zip Jumpsuit, £69, Finery
Denim Boilersuit, £79, John Lewis
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BOLD & Bright From tangerine to shocking pink, green to vibrant yellow, bright colour palettes are this season’s must-haves
Printed Green Dress, £29.99, Zara
Ted Baker Floral Silk Scarf, £75, Very
Heidi Klein Dress, £260, Selfridges
John Lewis
Colourblock Cardigan, £38, Very
Yellow Dress, £139, Damsel in a Dress
Shoe Boots, £45, Keleidoscope
Green Blazer Dress, £99.99, Zara
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Green Leather Bag, £150, Dune London
Platform Sandal, £275, Russell & Bromley Dress, £79, Marks & Spencer
Satin Shirt, £22.99, Zara
Pangaia Sweatshirt, £105, Selfridges
Yellow Cardigan, £109, Whistles
Orange Jumper, £79, Mint Velvet
V Neck Jumper, £30, Lipsy
Green Earrings, £21.99, John Lewis
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food & drink
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FOODIE NEWS
LICK YOUR LIPS
Spoil your mum in the comfort of her own home with a box of the most delicious treats. Home made on the edge of Dartmoor in Devon using the very best British ingredients and presented in 100% recyclable packaging, The Happy Mother's Day Message Box (£35) from www.flapjackery.co.uk is the perfect way to spoil her. It has a centre piece plaque emblazoned with 'Mother's Day' surrounded by eight half pieces of flapjack and includes a combination of Ruby Millionaire, Raspberry and White Chocolate, Ginger & Dark Chocolate, Cherry Bakewell, Golden Salted Caramel, Double chocolate Brownie, Lemon Drizzle and Clotted Cream.
DRINK UP THOSE VITAMINS
To give yourself that much needed hydration whilst on the go, The Benefit Brand’s 100% natural flavoured water is the perfect choice, especially with the warmer summer months in sight! Available in perfectly portable cans that are perfect for picnics or drinking on the go, Benefit Water is a delicious range of caffeine, sugar and sweetener free sparkling waters that could be your thirst quencher of choice this spring/summer. Available in three flsvours - Sparkling Lemon & Elderflower, Sparkling Apple with Natural Fibre and Sparkling Mango & Coconut all available from Amazon and www.thebenefitbrand.com for a RRP £1.29 per 250ml can.
BIG TASTE IN SMALL MEASURES
More than ever, people are prioritising their health and taking a closer look at what they are eating and drinking. Inginious (£26) was created with exactly that in mind and reduces both your alcohol and calorie intake, and all without compromising on flavour. Packed full of carefully chosen botanicals including the classic gin botanical juniper, and a citrus blend of lemongrass, grapefruit and lime to ensure a delicate but recognisable gin flavour. For those thinking of taking a lighter approach this year but not wanting to cut it out completely, Inginious Gin is the one for you. Available online at www.Inginious-Gin.co.uk
SWEETIES HAS LAUNCHED
The capital’s most talked about hotel, The Standard, London, have launched Sweeties, a new 10th floor cocktail bar and late-night spot. Sweeties offer a menu of naturally mood-boosting cocktails created by The Standard in collaboration with award-winning mixologists, Jack Sotti and Todd Austin. Ochre velvet sofas, ruched leather banquettes, mirrored tables, and a six-foot antique phallic sculpture set the tone for this intimate new destination: new wave glamour meets glorious misbehaviour. Sweeties will be open from 5pm on Wednesday to Saturday each week. The venue has room for 80 (seated) to 150 (standing). Reservations are recommended and can be made at www.standardhotels.com/london/features/sweeties
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Tomato and Basil Mackerel Bake “Add this pasta bake to your weeknight repetoire for an easy, cheesy and hearty meal that is perfect for feeding a hungry family”
Ingredients
250g large pasta shells 1 head of broccoli 1 tbsp of oil 2 finely sliced red onions 2 crushed garlic cloves 1 tbsp tomato purée 200ml red wine 2 x 400g tins of chopped tomatoes ½ bunch of torn fresh basil 240g pack of peppered smoked mackerel fillets ½ bunch of basil 100ml light crème fraîche 50g grated mature cheddar
Method
Heat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6. Bring a large pan of water to the boil and cook the pasta shells for 2 minutes less than the pack instructions. Add the head of broccoli, sliced into florets, for the last 2 minutes of the cooking time, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, in a large sauté pan, heat a glug of oil and fry the red onions for 5 minutes. Add the garlic and tomato purée, fry for a few minutes, then add the red wine. Bubble for 2 minutes, then add the chopped tomatoes and
basil. Cook for 10 minutes, then season. Remove the skin from a the mackerel fillets and break up into bite-size pieces. Stir into the pan with the remaining basil and light crème fraîche. Spoon into a 2 litre baking dish (or keep in the pan if it’s ovenproof) and top with grated mature cheddar. Cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and piping hot throughout. RECIPE: Delicious Magazine
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Indian-Spiced Potatoes with Chicken Thighs “Roasting the chicken on top of the spice-packed potatoes means you get the full flavour of the juices seeping into the potatoes”
Ingredients
1 large onion 800 g potatoes 4 ripe tomatoes 1 aubergine 1 red pepper 2 cloves of garlic 5cm piece of ginger ½ a bunch of fresh coriander, (15g) Olive oil 2 tablespoons mustard seeds 1 handful of curry leaves 1 heaped teaspoon turmeric 6 large free-range chicken thighs, bone in 2 fresh red or green chillies Poppadoms Yoghurt Dressing ½ a bunch of fresh mint (15g) ½ a lemon 1cm piece of ginger 150 g natural yoghurt 1 fresh green chilli
Method
Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F/gas 5. Peel the onion, then cut into 3cm cubes with the potatoes, tomatoes, aubergine and pepper. Put the potatoes in a large pan of salted water over a medium heat. Bring to the boil and cook for 10 minutes, then drain in a colander and leave to steam-dry for 3 minutes. Tip into a large bowl and mix with the tomato, aubergine, pepper and onion. Peel and finely slice the garlic. Peel and finely grate the ginger. Pick the coriander leaves and set aside, then chop the stalks. Heat two tbsp of oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, coriander stalks, mustard seeds, curry leaves and turmeric, and cook for 2 minutes, or until fragrant. Leave to one side to cool slightly. Add the spice mix to the veg and potatoes, and tip onto a large roasting tray. Arrange the chicken on top and season. Roast in the bottom of the oven for 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked and the veggies are soft. For the dressing, put the mint leaves into a blender, squeeze in the lemon juice, then peel and add the ginger with the remaining dressing ingredients and a pinch of seasoning. Blitz until smooth. Top the chicken and potatoes with the coriander leaves. Finely slice and scatter on the chillies, then serve with poppadoms and the dressing on the side. RECIPE: Jamie Oliver
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Rhubarb & Custard Blondies “Pair a classic blondie with custard and rhubarb for a classic flavour combination”
Ingredients
225g salted butter (or unsalted with a pinch of salt), plus extra for the tin 200g light brown soft sugar 100g caster sugar 150g plain flour 50g custard powder ½ tsp baking powder 3 medium eggs 250g white chocolate chips or white chocolate finely chopped 2 tsp vanilla extract For the rhubarb & custard swirl 200g rhubarb (frozen, or canned and drained is fine) 75g caster sugar Pink or red food colouring (optional) 4 tbsp ready-made custard (from a carton is fine, or made up from powder)
Method
For the rhubarb & custard swirl, put the rhubarb and sugar in a wide pan with 2 tbsp water (omit the water if using canned rhubarb). Cook over a medium heat, stirring frequently for about 10 mins, until the rhubarb breaks down and turns jammy. Add a few drops of food colouring if you want a pink rhubarb swirl, but the flavour will still be great if you’re using green-tinged rhubarb. Leave to cool. Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Put the butter and both sugars into a pan and put over a low heat. Melt together until smooth and shiny, then remove from the heat, and leave to cool for 10 mins while you sieve the flour, custard powder and baking powder in a bowl. Butter a 20 x 30cm baking tin and line with baking parchment. Beat the eggs into the cooled sugar and butter mixture, then fold in the dry ingredients until you have a smooth batter. Stir in 150g of the chocolate chips and the vanilla. Pour into the brownie tin, then use a teaspoon to swirl rhubarb compote on top of the batter. Add dollops of the custard, then swirl a skewer or cocktail stick through the compote to create a marbled pattern. Bake for 35-40 mins until set and the edges are coming away from the sides of the tin, then leave in the tin to cool. Melt the remaining 100g chocolate in short blasts in the microwave or in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Use a spoon to drizzle the chocolate over the blondie in a zig-zag pattern. Cut into squares to serve. RECIPE: BBC Good Food
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BLOOM INTO SPRING Get ready for warmer weather with these sumptuous wines from Tesco. They include crisp whites, fruity reds and refreshing rosés, just perfect for sharing with friends or loved ones this spring.
Tesco Finest Malbec Rosé This Malbec Rosé from the Argentinian region of Mendoza is carefully blended with small amounts of Torrontes to make it dry yet soft with red fruit aromas and juicy flavours of white peach, red berry and lychee. The perfect addition to spring garden parties, serve chilled alongside grilled prawns or barbecued vegetables. £8.00
Leyda Reserva Pinot Noir Bright ruby in colour, this Chilean Pinot Noir from the Leyda Valley offers a fruity nose of red berries and wild herb notes. On the palate, there are flavours of ripe berries, with a hint of minerality and a refreshing finish. Serve alongside a grilled vegetable salad or salmon. £12.00
Casa Maña Tempranillo Garnacha Rosé Made exclusively for Tesco by familyowned Felix Solis, this Spanish rosé is made from tempranillo and garnacha grapes and boasts flavours of juicy berries and aromas of strawberry and raspberry. Pair with grilled tuna or fruit tarts for the perfect spring treat. £4.50
Tesco Finest Valdobbiadene Prosecco This elegant and crisp prosecco, from the Valdobbiadene Hill in the heart of Prosecco, has flavours of ripe pear and white peach, and a zesty light finish. Serve with smoked salmon blinis or savoury cheeses. £10.00
Mirabeau La Folie Sparkling Rose This beautiful sparkling rosé from renowned producer Mirabeau is the perfect addition to your spring dinner table. It boasts fruity aromas of apricot, yellow peach and passionfruit, with a creamy and white fruit palate. Serve with grilled chicken or a creamy asparagus risotto. £14.00
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interiors
KOKET
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Noah Chair, £699, www.theloungeco.com
Knit Throw., £55, Perch & Parrow
Knitted Pouffe, £100, BTFY
Photo Frame, £18, Mint & May
Stoneware Mug, £6.75, Oh Curio
Planter, £16, Matalan
Artichoke Bowl, £85, OKA
Side Table, £325, Rose & Grey
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MARSHMALLOW CALMNESS
Marshmallow hues provide a sense of calmness and relaxation. As we dive into springtime, wellbeing this calming hue is ideal for bringing a tranquil and serene setting into your home.
Chair, £540, Sweetpea & Willow
Outdoor Cushion, £49, Rose & Grey
Tissue Box, £24, Marquis & Dawe
Table Lamp, £108, Dar Lighting
Noto Circular Vase Ivory White
Fabric Cushion, £12.95, www.livelaughlove.co.uk
Rug, £249, Cult Furniture
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MANGO & BLUSH Pair blush pink with dark mango wood for an inviting colour palette in any room
Cascade Sand Wallpaper, £105, 1838 Wallcoverings Pendant, £48, Dar Lighting Cutting Board, £40, Michael Murphy
Paeony No. 66, £41.95, Victory Colours
Dried Eucalyptus Stems, £30, Heavenly Homes & Gardens
Swirl Glass, £9.95, Idyll Home
Twisted Wood Salad Servers, £24, Spicer and Wood
Walnut Wood Vases, £22, Bohemia Design
Lamp, £17.99, Homesense
The Wisteria Tree
Rattan Charger, £16, Rebecca Udall
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HOODIES FOR
him
Hoodies are an off-duty essential whether you're hitting the streets or chilling for the day, we’ve rounded up our favourites
Cream Hoodie, £99, Ted Baker
Brown Hoodie, £59, AllSaints
Blue Hoodie, £65, Levi's
Superdry Grey Hoodie, £70, Tommy Hilfiger
Sage Hoodie, £110, Reiss
Navy Hoodie, £46, FatFace
Ecru Hoodie, £18, Primark
Grey Hoodie, £90, Lacoste
Logo Hoodie, £80, Selfridges
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EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE We chatted heels, hormones and health with Layton Williams, who plays Jamie in the up and coming ‘Everybody’s Talking about Jamie’ at Milton Keynes Theatre next month. For people who are new to Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, how would you sum up the storyline? Jamie is based on a real character who was the subject of a documentary on BBC Three. I remember watching it years ago and it was about him wanting to be a drag queen and wanting to go to the school prom in a dress and how his mum Margaret supported him. When he got there, there was all this hoo-hah, the teachers wouldn’t let him in, then something wonderful and unexpected happened, his school mates refused to go in without him. The basics of his story inspired the musical and it’s been given a bit of theatrical razzamatazz. Our story is about a 16-year-old boy who wants to be a drag queen and it’s about his relationship with his parents - including his dad, who he isn’t much in touch with. It’s about Jamie finding himself and his drag persona and, without giving anything away, what happens when he does eventually go to the prom. What do you see as the key themes? It’s about acceptance. This is a show for everyone, especially for today. It’s not just for people who are into RuPaul’s Drag Race and stuff like that. The show is about a boy finding his path in life with the help of his close relationship with his incredible mum and her unconditional love for him. She loves him exactly as he is.
A dad who isn’t supportive and lots of other characters that people will be able to relate to. It’s about family, friendship, trust and support. There are so many different, relatable characters in it - [laughs] although if you identify with the dad then have a word with yourself! And there’s so much diversity in the cast. The real Jamie is white and I’m not, but that wasn’t even a question for the producers and creatives - which is so refreshing and so fab, like just ‘He’s right for the role’ and that’s how it should be. Oh, and there are high heels, high kicks, drag queens, beautiful dresses, feather boas, some fantastic songs and brilliant dancing. It really is fun, funny and fabulous with a lump in your throat and a little tear. How important is the theme of inclusion to audiences both young and old? Very important. I get messages from older people who have been helped by the show, whether it’s helped them come out or helped them understand their children better. It does obviously speak directly to the LGBTQ+ youth but it’s not limited to one faction. So many people can relate to being an outcast or feeling different but after seeing the show they’ll feel, to quote one of the songs, there’s a place where they belong. It didn’t happen to me personally but our director [Jonathan Butterell] said when he was doing the
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show in Sheffield a guy came up to him, grabbed his arm and said ‘I was Dean once’ - referring to the school bully character.
story about?’ If I came out in the opening number And You Don’t Even Know It like ‘Bam! I’ve got this!’ then the audience would just go ‘He seems fine, what’s the point of the story?’
Does the show resonate for you on a personal level? Yes it does. I’m a queer boy from a council estate up North, so we have that in common. Me and my mum have had our moments in the past and sometimes on stage I’m thinking about the things we’ve been through. We always patch things up but families go through stuff. And my upbringing wasn’t rosy. As I say, I was a gay boy on a council estate and as much as I tried to hide it I had a few things coming my way. It’s not been the easiest ride but I put it into my art.
What challenges does the role of Jamie present? It’s about the emotional journey he has to go on. Eight times a week I’m having an argument with this person, bonding with that one, having to cry about this, having to cry about that… The rollercoaster of emotions is a lot to navigate. Being 16 years old is hard. I remember being 16 with all those hormones and stuff. There’s the acting side of all that, then there are so many songs. I have to keep my voice tight and right. That’s the difficulty - keeping myself on top form all the time so when I get out on stage, I slay it. I want people to have the best experience possible and that means I have to be in full health, make sure I’m rested and always prepared. That’s the nature of the job but that’s what makes it exciting because you put your whole self out there on stage. Having played Angel in Rent this isn’t your first time in heels, is it? No, it isn’t. [Laughs] The heels thing is a doddle now.
Do you know the real Jamie and have you based your performance on him? Yes, I know Jamie Campbell, he’s a really lovely guy. I rewatched the documentary once I got the part. There are a few things he does, like a few little dance moves, that I’ve put into the show. And with him as a person, I take some of his isms and personality traits. On the surface he might come across as someone who is really confident and fab and out-there, but as with lots of people you don’t really know what’s going on behind closed doors. There’s so much vulnerability to him. That’s something I don’t necessarily have myself. I’m always getting notes from the director about tapping into Jamie’s vulnerability. I try to stay as true to him and his story as I can because I want to do it justice. I want everyone who comes to see the show to not just get this fierce, fully-formed teenager who’s got everything sorted because then it’d be like ‘So what’s this
What’s your favourite musical number in the show and why? And You Don’t Even Know It is fab because it’s the opening number and I get to sing and dance and do it all. Then I love the closing number Out Of The Darkness because I have my microphone in my hand and I feel like a real popstar.
How has the past year been for you with theatres being mostly closed? I’ve been relatively busy actually. There were moments where I didn’t do much and I had some chill time with family and friends, which was really nice because I never normally get to be still and do nothing. A friend of mine was like ‘Layton, just relax - we’re all in the same boat’ and when you realise that everyone else is also doing nothing it’s easier to just chill. But since thing began to reopen I’ve done the odd gig here and the odd concert there. I’ve also got a couple of TV shows under my belt. I did Murder, They Hope, which has already been on, and The Cleaner, which should be on later this year. It’s written by and stars Greg Davies as a crime scene cleaner. It was so fab to step on a TV set again. I was nervous at first but then I was like ‘I’m in my element and I can do this’. Is there one thing you couldn’t be on the road without? My suitcases full of outfits and things for my dressing room, like my dolls and cards full of love and my artwork. I have to put them all out so when I come into the room, I feel the love and the energy.
How hard do you think it will be to say goodbye to Jamie when the tour ends? I can’t even think about it to be honest. I’ll have been playing this part for a good year and a half and I’ve loved every single second of it. All good things have to come to an end and I’m sure there are many more amazing opportunities waiting for me in the future, but this will be something I will never forget. It’s been a life-changing job.
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday 19th to Saturday 23rd April. For tickets, visit www.atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes
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TRAVEL
Armeria
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A Visit to
Italian Palazzo Ducale Venturi, Italy
Situated in a picturesque Apulian Borgo in Salento, in the southern end of charming Puglia in Italy, Palazzo Ducale Venturi is a luxury 5-star boutique hotel in a restored aristocratic palace from the 16th century. The palace has been carefully restored to offer 20 refurbished bedrooms, a unique restaurant, one indoor and one outdoor pool, luxury spa and Puglia’s first Cryotherapy chamber, alongside a wealth of experiences to enjoy Apulian traditions and explore the local area.
Located in the quaint village of Minervino di Lecce, Palazzo Ducale Venturi boasts two outdoor spaces, the main green garden, and a secret citrus grove. The main garden is accessed through a rose garden, which overlooks the outdoor saltwater swimming pool, as well as the pool bar and the old armoury, recently restored to house the gym, wellbeing area and four majestic suites with floor length windows for guests to enjoy the magical Apulian sun. Other rooms include the Ducale Suite which features direct access to the garden and pool, and the intimate Abbess Room on the first floor which has its own antique stone spiral staircase and access to the indoor pool. After a busy day exploring the local sights, the citrus garden is an oasis of peace, relaxation and Mediterranean scents, the perfect place to enjoy a book or an Aperitivo at sunset.
History and design - The noble Palazzo Ducale Venturi, once called Castello Nuovo, is recognised as a historical residence, and offers five centuries of history, art and culture and hints of the extensive past can be found in every nook and corner. Restored under the supervision of The Ministry of Cultural Heritage, once through the door, visitors are greeted by an enormous antique fireplace in the lobby, and in the garden, they can admire a well, made from Lecce stone dating back to the 13th century. Each of the guest rooms are different, with the design offering a taste of the original Apulian palazzo style but with a modern twist. Majority of the rooms in the main building feature original 16th century vaulted ceilings and art work,
typical of old Salento architecture and in the corridor on the first floor, guests will even see an old wooden door set into the wall like a work of art. Legend has it that the Duke Venturi himself had a passionate love affair with the Abbess of the convent near the present-day Church of St Anthony in town and in order to meet her, he had an underground tunnel built, which still exists, connecting the palazzo to the monastery. Throughout the hotel guests can also admire its extensive art collection of modern and classic works of art, from original paintings and sculptures to statues. Spa - Choosing to stay at Palazzo Ducale Venturi, guests can relax and regenerate at the dedicated spa, which is the first in Puglia to offer cryotherapy, a hi-tech treatment that operates at -190° for extensive health benefits. Guests can also find a massage room; well-equipped gym and the ancient oil mill has been restored to be the hotel’s heated underground swimming pool. After a swim in the palazzo’s pools, guests can stretch out in Pilates or yoga class in the garden. For those wishing to personalise their stay with a classic or typically Mediterranean fragrance in their rooms, the hotel has a remarkable selection of essential oils to choose from. Food and drink - The palazzo brings a distinctive culinary experience to Salento with its restaurant that is exclusive to guests. The restaurant is headed up by Chef Antonio Russo who offers an elegant but unpredictable menu, inspired by the fresh products of Salento’s nearby sea and local area. Example dishes vary from a starter of crispy cuttlefish with urchin, a pasta main of spaghetti alla chitarra with anchovies and wild fennel and orange scented aubergine pie with ricotta, candied fruit and chocolate sauce for dessert. Experiences and activities - As part of the large variety of extra experiences offered by the hotel, guests can try their hand at cooking traditional dishes using the palace’s restored salt ovens with Chef Antonio. Complimentary
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bikes are available to use for the day to explore the highlights of the heel of Italy and guests can take part in whisky pairing masterclasses with a special whisky menu paired with Apulian ingredients. For a touch of romance, guests can surprise their loved ones and enjoy an intimate evening under the stars having an aphrodisiac themed dinner in the hotel’s secluded citrus grove. Palazzo Venturi is in a strategic position, a short distance from all the pearls of Salento which are rich in history as well as natural beauty and pristine beaches. The hotel is just 6KM away from the sea and close to the nearby towns of Otranto, Santa Cesarea Terme, Porto Badisco, Santa Maria di Leuca and Lecce. Just an hour’s drive away, the nearest airport is Brindisi.
Palazzo Ducale Venturi is also the first historical residence in Italy to be certified Green Key, an international recognition that rewards excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation in the tourism sector. The palazzo is also one of the first hotels in Italy to ensure that it caters for any mobility or care needs. Through an innovative system of glass walls and mobile pressure handles, every guest with disability or mobility needs can choose any hotel room they would like, and it will be adapted to their needs with the help of the hotel’s specialist staff. Four legged friends are welcome too, at no extra cost. BOOK IT
Palazzo Ducale Venturi reopens from 1st May through to 30th November 2022. Nightly rates at Palazzo Ducale Venturi start from €200 based on two people sharing a room on a bed and breakfast basis. www.palazzoducaleventuri.com
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BOLD, BEAUTIFUL & BRITISH London, full of exquisite luxury hotels, all individual in their own way, whether they have balcony views over the Thames, are in the heart of the buzzing theatre district or hidden down a leafy suburb, they all have their own piece of uniqueness, but as far as quirky and imaginative go nhow London has to be at the top!
With its riot of eccentricity that includes vibrant funky furnishings, contemporary artwork, a riot of colour throughout and a Big Ben rocket ship (honestly) in reception, this hotel really does pull you further and further down the rabbit hole getting curiouser and curiouser around every corner. Situated on City Road, on the fringe of Shoreditch, from the outside nhow looks non-assuming and discreet, but once you walk through those doors – WOW! The large open plan lobby is an unconventional mix of vibrant hues, quirky decor, funky furniture (armchairs are upholstered using red military coats and gold tassels), neon signs adorn the walls along with unconventional images of past monarchs and the bare concrete ceilings, visible pipes and industrial lighting most definitely take you away from the real world and wrap you in a surreal bubble to simply relax and savour the moment.
The hotel has 190 rooms, spread over 8 floors with one suite on each of the first seven floors and then a penthouse on the top floor, each room is uniquely designed with a punky high-tech vibe by architecture and interiors studio, Project Orange.
We were staying in The Penthouse reached by a long, dark, moody lit corridor, where Sherlock Holmes wouldn’t seem out of place. Each bedroom door was painted in bold colours with brass door furniture making them look like a regular front door.The penthouse is housed at the end of the corridor on the angled part of the building and walking along to get to it is an experience in itself, once reached there is artwork around the door containing picture clues to films such as The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Alice in Wonderland and Lord of the Rings, Through the main door, before you even enter the suite is a guest toilet (in case you’re planning on entertaing during your stay) and then you’re speechless. A brightly coloured green shag pile carpet that resembles a freshly mowed lawn, hessian wallpaper, a large green sofa, sea blue rug and giant wicker chairs all come together to create an outdoor roof garden vibe.
The walls of the suite meet in a sharp point overlooking City Road – a great place for a ‘Titanic’ selfie, before you slip into something a little more comfortable. The gowns are embroidered with King and Queen (just request your preference) and you certainly feel like Royalty as you sit in one of the wicker chairs, cool glass of wine in hand overlooking the London skyline (just don’t look down!) There’s a lot of space even with an eight-person dining table, coffee table and life size dog ornament! Dotted around are lots of retro nods, an old-fashioned dial phone with a cute quote, along with the essentials of a mini-fridge,
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tea making facilities that include a porcelain kettle, teapot and an espresso coffee machine.
The hessian walls continue through into the bedroom, with a comfy king size bed, vibrant green print floor to ceiling headboard and large gold-rimmed TV – all very sleek and slightly reminiscent of a cabin on a luxury yacht. The freestanding roll top bath, set against a large flower design wall was just calling out my name for a little bubble time and the gold sink, walk-in rain shower and marble floor simply added to the opulent feel of the bathroom. The main restaurant at the hotel is currently being refurbished, so dinner is served within the lobby, where seated areas aplenty are dotted around the central bar.
Dining began with cocktails before we indulged in some unusual but delightfully delicious food. A rosemary doughnut and King prawn bao bun, were our choices, both infused with flavours and textures that definitely got our taste buds wanting more. Next up was roast porchetta and Cornish crab tagliolini, cooked al dente, with a mild chilli kick, it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Portion sizes here are not small, so be prepared to roll out of your chair at the end of the evening! And roll is what we did, straight back to the eighth floor where it was time to
watch the bright lights of the capital whizzing by below us.
After a restful night’s sleep, who doesn’t love breakfast, especially when its room service and you can indulge at your leisure. A fabulous combination of cooked and continental arrived with trays full of pastries, meats, cheeses, fresh fruit salad, toast and preserves, fresh juices and coffee along with poached eggs on a creamy bed of avocado and toasted muffin – we knew there was a reason for the large dining table! If after all this food you’re feeling a little guilty you can always take a trip down to the basement where the nhow London has its very own gym, a ‘Mind the Gap’ sign by the lift doors, metal grate entrance, and sound of an approaching tube train playing constantly in the gym, is a definite nod towards the London underground. nhow London is an experience in itself, somewhere you’ll be talking about for months to come, with its vibrant, funky rather quirky vibes it might not be everyone’s first choice, but it’s definitely an experience everyone has to try at least once. BOOK IT
Prices start from £144 room only and from £174 including breakfast. For more information or to book, visit www.nhowlondon.com
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A 1920s Murder Mystery Experience Recreates Agatha Christie’s
‘The Mystery of the Blue Train’ on The Orient Express
A
fully immersive murder-mystery onboard The Orient Express, the iconic and historic train, has been announced and will take place on the 26th May 2022. This rare and exclusive one-day adventure has been crafted by Ariodante, the travel alchemist.
Departing from Paris and travelling to Nice in the French Riviera, it will combine a murder mystery with immersive theatre and escape room drama, against the backdrop of a 1920s theme with all the splendour, glamour and excesses of those times. The trip has been timed to arrive in time for the Monaco Grand Prix.
Ricardo Araujo, founder of Ariodante explains “Never before has such a complex and immersive murder mystery ever been attempted, especially in a moving train. The world-class cast in this event is absolutely unique and it took us months of planning to be able to bring together such an incredible team.”
The Mystery Based on Agatha Christie’s novel, Mystery of the Blue Train, guests will be transported back in time, looking the part themselves donning 1920s costumes, on an unforgettable adventure across France. With a passenger ‘murdered’, they will step into Poirot’s shoes tasked with finding out who did it, how and why. Spread across the whole train with actors disguised as guests and train staff, no one will know who is for real, and guests themselves may unknowingly become a suspect. Mobile phones and laptops will be strictly prohibited, ensuring that passengers rely on their imagination and detective skills. The winner will be announced at the end of the day during a champagne party and receive a reward worth £100,000 including a 1920s original Lalique piece.
The Itinerary The mystery will start at the aptly named and historic Train Bleu restaurant at Gare de Lyon in Paris where the rules of the game will be explained. Once onboard passengers will enjoy a Burgundian 5 course gastronomic lunch prepared by one of the world’s best French chefs (3* Michelin stars in Paris and several times awarded ‘Best chef in the World’), which will be paired with 5 rare vintage Krug champagnes. In the afternoon there is a French inspired tea with desserts and patisseries prepared by a renowned French pastry chef, and dinner is a 3-course light Provencal gastronomic dinner paired with fine wines, accompanied by a 1920s style jazz band.
The Train The Orient Express train was chosen as it epitomises the glamour and elegance of the 1920s. It is a French national monument that travels only exceptionally (not to be confused with the Venice-Simplon Orient-Express, a Belmond Train) having been recently restored to its former glory. In fact, it will be the first time this train will travel to the French Riviera since the Blue Train stopped in the early 70s. It was known whilst in operation as the ‘Millionaire’s Train’ carrying famous passengers such as Charlie Chaplin, Coco Chanel, Winston Churchill and F. Scott Fitzgerald. The Blue Train will be recreated specifically for this experience, ensuring that every detail is true to the book, but taking the hospitality to a whole new level. Dates for further Murder Mystery adventures in different locations around the World will be announced shortly. Each adventure is unique and is crafted specifically around the story and in the context of the time it was originally based.
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BOOK IT
Ticket price: £19,980 (or €23,980 or USD$ 27,590).
This includes the full day experience including the gastronomic experiences, the cocktail and the champagne party. It also includes a luxury car in Paris to travel to the train station and the same in Nice to reach the hotel and a special luggage service, where the guest’s luggage is packed, transported to the hotel in Nice and unpacked. VIP Package (for 2): £45,980 (or €55,190 or USD$ 63,460)
This includes 2 tickets + luxury costume experience in Paris (for 2) + luxury hairdresser (one of the best in Paris) + transfer in Paris in a classic 1920s car.
Main Additional Options: • Game Assistant: £3,980 (or €4,790 or USD$5,500) - To help solve the mystery and win the game •. Hotels Package (for 2): Starting price £17,600 (or €21,120 or USD$ 24,290). This comprises car transfers (airport-hotel) in Paris and the Riviera, 2 nights in Paris in Suite and 3 nights in the Riviera in suite + spa treatment in Paris + gifts. Price depends on which hotel the person choses, the level of suites and length. Hotels will be proposed upon availability. •. Villa Package (for 2): Starting at £50,000 (2 nights in Paris + 1 week in Villa in the Riviera) • Yacht Package (for 2) Starting at £65,000 (2 nights in Paris + 1 week in a luxury yacht in the Riviera) •. Bespoke experiences can be arranged in Paris and in the Riviera. To find out more and to book tickets, visit www.ariodantetravel.com/orient-express
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ENJOY A SPRING ESCAPE at THE GATEHOUSE Wolterton Park, a stunning 18th century estate in North Norfolk has introduced its latest renovated holiday property; The Gate House, a charming Georgian cottage located at the entrance to the park. The Gatehouse is the fifth holiday home to be renovated on the 500-acre estate that has been lovingly restored to its former splendour over the past five years.
Accommodating up to five guests in two double bedrooms and one single bedroom, the cottage has been beautifully appointed by owners Peter Sheppard and Keith Day, including two en-suite bathrooms with cast iron baths and Burlington basins.
Offering the perfect country retreat, the cosy sitting room is decorated with period furniture, Persian rugs and an open fire with logs supplied. It's perfect for relaxing in after exploring North Norfolk's beautiful beaches or horse riding around the estate. There is also a private garden to enjoy, with outdoor seating and a BBQ area.
Wolterton Park helps guests plan their stay through its impressive concierge service. This includes booking guests' deliveries, organising activities on site such as clay pigeon shooting or booking Wolterton Park's executive chef to enjoy Norfolk's finest seasonal produce. Visitors are also invited to take a complimentary, private tour of the Main Hall to discover the true extent of the restoration, history and beauty of this magnificent house. And see how they are directly ensuring the long-term sustainability of the estate.
Guests can also roam in the 120-acre park, and canoe or enjoy wild swimming from the new pontoon on our ten-acre lake. BOOK IT
The Gate House sleeps 5 with 3 bedrooms. Prices start from £1,132 for a three-night stay and two dogs are welcome for an additional £50 each.
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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
Pisces (19 February – 20 March) You emerge with a better sense of self-confidence, know what you believe in, and are more responsible financially. You emerge with less weight on your shoulders, and less burdens from the past, but still have some ways to go and more lessons to come. You look further into the future and can take a different route to get to where you want to be. Favourable Dates: March 1, 2, 10, 19, 20, 29 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow
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Aries (21 March – 19 April) You try to be realistic with your plans, and you can make long-term plans that are achievable. You can get advice from people that you admire and have important communications with mentors and elders. Your alternate self loves variety and doesn’t want to have the same old stuff all of the time, so when it takes over, you’re prone to trying all sorts of different ways to deal with whatever you’re dealing with. Favourable Dates: March 1, 8, 10, 17, 19, 26 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow Taurus (20 April – 20 May) You’re in touch with your feelings, and your feelings are heightened. You might be a little too open with them at times, and have an outburst or two, especially when angry. Impatience can get the better of you, and you’re easily irritated and frustrated when things don’t go as quickly as you want them to. You also focus on your health and try to improve lifestyles so you can live better. Favourable Dates: March 1, 4, 10, 13, 19, 22 Favourable Colours: Yellow & White
Gemini (21 May – 20 June) You can do better in the background, without anyone paying attention to you, and you can work on eliminating some things from your life. You may come across as more compassionate, sensitive, or understanding. If newly dating someone, you can decide if it’s going somewhere or not. If attached, you want to be more romantic and have a better emotional connection. Favourable Dates: March 10, 12, 19, 21, 28, 30 Favourable Colours: Red & White Cancer (21 June – 22 July) This is the start of a brand-new expansion cycle for you, and you can be more enthusiastic, driven, excited about life, and willing to get things off of the ground. You can have many new opportunities presented to you to try new things, have new experiences, go to new places, meet new people. You do everything to the best of our abilities and take pride in the work that you do. Favourable Dates: March 2, 9, 11, 18, 20, 27 Favourable Colours: Blue & White
Leo (23 July – 22 August) Your mental energy can surge this month. You might be a little scattered though, so try to keep good track of everything you come up with and everything you say. You can be surprisingly sensual and in touch with your body and nature, and you want a physical connection to life. Your emotions run high, and you need some comfort and familiarity, but may not feel like you’re getting what you need to feel emotionally secure. Favourable Dates: March 7, 9, 16, 18, 25, 27 Favourable Colours: Grey & Blue Virgo (23 August – 22 September) You can finish a work project, become more committed to your work, or decide you want to walk away, though it may not be a permanent decision right now. You can stress yourself out easily, especially if you take on too much work, so try to have an emotional outlet. You can emerge with a stronger internal self, better understanding of your
emotions, and are more willing to give yourself what you need without guilt. Favourable Dates: March 2, 9, 11, 18, 20, 27 Favourable Colours: Red & Grey
Libra (23 September – 22 October) You can finalise a financial arrangement, agreement, or partnership, settle a financial dispute, or stop working a second job or side gig you’ve been doing for extra money, or take it to the next level. You need to force yourself to use the energy creatively, to make time for your hobbies and the things you enjoy, and to make time for love and your loved ones. Favourable Dates: March 6, 8, 15, 17, 24, 26 Favourable Colours: Green & Blue
Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) You can get work started toward your dreams, but you quickly lose steam, or you have a hard time getting started at all and become impatient about it. You can feel insecure about your future, and this leads to a short temper and aggravation. You can take charge in emotional situations, and your assertiveness comes out when you’re defending people you care about, especially family. Favourable Dates: March 6, 8, 15, 17, 24, 26 Favourable Colours: Green & Blue Sagittarius (22 November -21 December) You can work hard and try to be smart with the decisions that you make. You can focus more on the direction your life is taking and want to make sure you’re on the right path. You may come across as more practical, stable and responsible. You can also focus more on your spiritual side, enhancing your spirituality, honing your intuition, and studying spiritual and metaphysical subjects. Favourable Dates: March 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22 Favourable Colours: Green & Yellow
Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) This can be a fun time where you open your heart more to the possibilities in your life, to other people, and to fun. You want to enjoy yourself more and experience good times. You may need to let go of something that you don’t want to let go of yet but have to. Your intuition can be much stronger though, so listen to what it has to say, and let it guide you through moments of self-doubt. Favourable Dates: March 5, 8, 14, 17, 23, 26 Favourable Colours: Green & White
Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) You want to be around others for the mental stimulation, and you want to keep busy. You can take on lots of smaller tasks and projects to keep yourself engaged. It can be a good time to express yourself and have an important communication with someone. You may come across as more logical, friendlier, or funnier. You want to take your time with things, and you can stick to whatever decisions you make without being swayed. Favourable Dates: March 2, 3, 11, 12, 20, 21 Favourable Colours: Red & White manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com
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Weekend Starts Here.... SHE’S MINE by A.A. CHAUDHURI Her missing daughter was just the start of the nightmare - Twenty years ago, Christine Donovan took a call she should have ignored while shopping. In those few seconds while her back was turned, her toddler, Heidi, was kidnapped. She's never been seen again. Despite having two other children with husband Greg, Christine remains guilt-stricken that her neglect caused her child to be stolen, while haunted by a secret that consumes her. Just as she takes measures to finally heal, a note is posted through her door, with the words she has always longed to hear: Heidi isn't dead. Christine might finally get the answers she craves but what she doesn't know is that finding her daughter will uncover dark secrets close to home. In seeking the truth, Christine might destroy everything that she loves ... so how far is she willing to go to find Heidi?
AMBULANCE (Film) Over one day across the streets of L.A., three lives will change forever. Decorated veteran Will Sharp is desperate for money to cover his wife’s medical bills, he asks for help from the one person he knows he shouldn’t—his adoptive brother Danny (Oscar® nominee Jake Gyllenhaal, Zodiac, Spider-Man: Far From Home). A charismatic career criminal, Danny instead offers him a score: the biggest bank heist in Los Angeles history: $32 million. With his wife’s survival on the line, Will can’t say no. But when their getaway goes spectacularly wrong, the desperate brothers hijack an ambulance with a wounded cop clinging to life and ace EMT Cam Thompson onboard. In a high-speed pursuit that never stops, Will and Danny must evade a massive, city-wide law enforcement response, keep their hostages alive, and somehow try not to kill each other, all while executing the most insane escape L.A. has ever seen. RELEASE DATE: 25th March
A JOURNAL FOR JORDAN Journal for Jordan is a film that tells the story of Sergeant Charles Monroe King. He was deployed in Iraq and kept a journal for his infant son while he was there. The journal was filled with advice for his son. It also talked about the love that Jordan had for his son. Jordan's fiancee' reflects on the relationship that she had with him while she shares the journal with their son. RELEASE DATE: 8th March
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www.affinitymag.co.uk AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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