Affinity Luxury Lifestyle Magazine November 2019

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PRICELESS

www.affinitymag.co.uk AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

ISSUE 101

It's all about

Christmas

Check mate

Exude check appeal with a gorgeous check coat

WWW.AFFINITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Deck the Halls Baubles, baubles everywhere

ISSUE 101

Winter at Tantora The cultural festival celebrating incredible art, music, culture and history against the timeless backdrop of AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Festive Magic in New York this Christmastime Beauty Advents, every girl should have at least one

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Affinity’s

Rustic Barn Wedding Show The Barn at Redcoats

Stevenage Rd, Little Wymondley, Hitchin, SG4 7JR

SUNDAY 24th November 2019 11am - 3pm

Join us for a Winter Wonderland Wedding Showcase, encompassing all you need to plan your special day.

From the modern to the Bohemian, the rustic barn to the vintage glamour this show offers finishing touches that will create the WOW factor to your wedding day.

They'll be live entertainment, food, drink, and fashion shows to keep you entertained during the day. Whether you are planning a wedding in a barn, woodland, tipi, marquee or another unique or quirky venue we will have suppliers who will help your vision become a reality.

jane@af initymag.co.uk

07507 602401

af inityweddingsmagazine.co.uk

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Welcome...

1

I’m loving...

2 3

4 With approximately seven weeks to go until the big day, we feel it’s quite acceptable to mention that word – Christmas and fill this issue with all that glitters and more.

5

We love this time of year, it’s lovely to reflect on Christmas past and the traditions you had as a child that you have now brought into adulthood and your own family. I for one get terribly nostalgic with my childhood memories - I swear to this day I heard Santa’s bells on Christmas Eve.

The countdown’s well and truly on when you open day 1 of your advent calendar, gone are the days of just a picture or a bit of chocolate, now calendars are full of beauty products, alcohol and food – You literally are spoilt for choice, turn to page 14 and 46 for a roundup of our favourites, what one will you choose?

I think there’s something just as magical about giving a gift as there is receiving one. The look on the person’s face as they unwrap it is a joy to watch, but I hear you ask “I don’t know what to buy? “Look no further than our Christmas Gift Guide, (page 27) this year it’s back bigger and better than before and has gifts everyone will love.

In the heart of Europe, Lake Constance offers travellers a wealth of cultural activities to experience this festive season.

The four countries around the lake including Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and the Principality of Liechtenstein, are perfect for exploration and Christmas cheer. From star-strewn St. Gallen and magical Mainau Island to the mountainous wonderland in Vaduz and a festive cruise across the lake, there are over 70 Christmas markets to explore around the lake, with local delicacies to taste at each one, just perfect if you fancy escaping for a few days of festive cheer (page 60).

1. Soffieria De Carlini Lady in Coat Bauble, £35, Fenwick 2. Star Trainers, £25, Dorothy Perkins 3. Knitted Beanie, £18, FatFace 4. Three Robins jumper, £28, Lipsy 5 . Rose Gold Jewel Necklace, £14, River Island

Remember also, it’s the season of goodwill, a little kindness goes a long way!

Until Next Month

Jane x

Don’t forget to join us on social media, we love getting to know you!

www.affinitymag.co.uk

Cover Vera Mont affinitymagz

facebook.com/AffinityMag

Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 962106 - 07507 602401 Advertising: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 01234 962106 - 07507 602401 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 21

8 12 20 23 29 32 40 45 47 56 62 66

Beauty Updates Realistic Goals Teddy Trend Winter Faux The Lady Loves Little Cherubs Foodie News Festive Stollen Deck the Halls New York at Christmas Flying Carpet Fun Weekend Starts Here

49

54

53

8

34

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The ultimate advent calendar?

Beaverbrooks the Jewellers has launched the brand new advent calendar, which features a luxurious diamond gift within each of its 25 drawers, in celebration of its 100th birthday this year.

The first-of-its-kind, new and exclusive ladies advent calendar will include elegant diamond rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, watches and jewellery sets. And there’s a truly special gift on Christmas Day. Amongst the stunning selection is a Once Platinum Diamond Solitaire Ring worth £26,000, as well as a number of pieces including a £975 9ct White Gold Diamond Pendant from Beaverbrooks’ True Connections collection which was created exclusively for the brand’s 100th birthday.

For those looking to add the ultimate elegance to each day of the festive countdown, the diamond-a-day advent calendar retails at £100,000; over £23,000 less than purchasing the pieces of jewellery individually.

“Never mind chocolate, this really is the dream advent calendar for diamond and jewellery lovers!”

Featuring diamond-encrusted pieces from Beaverbrooks, as well as brands such as Gucci and TAG Heuer, find out more about the calendar (including how to get your hands on one) at www.beaverbrooks.co.uk/advent

Body Beautiful

Dermalogica’s new phyto replenish body oil (£47) and thermafoliant body scrub (£39) are Influenced by centuries of traditional bathing rituals, the new products combine natural scents and innovative formulas with active botanicals and advanced ingredients to give radiant, healthy-looking skin. The light body oil will replenish, calm and moisturise the body with an antioxidant-rich blend of skin-nourishing oils. The warming body exfoliant will energise, smooth & brighten dull skin. www.dermalogica.co.uk

Sleek Styling

Introducing the Glamoriser straight and smooth speed brush. Simple as a hairbrush, results of a straightener. This high performing straightening brush creates sleek, straight looks with its unique triple action hot + cool bristle technology – super fast action and easy handling makes detangling, taming and straightening as easy as A- B-C. Priced at £69.99 and available from www.glamoriser.com.

Endless Benefits

Skin Republic is the multiple award-winning skin care range combining the latest advances in skin care with nature’s restorative properties. Scientifically formulated and dermatologist tested, products focus on skin care for the face, under the eyes, neck and décolletage, hands and feet. Concentrated nutrient rich ingredients nourish, rejuvenate and hydrate, helping you to maintain healthy looking glowing skin.

The range includes Brightening Vitamin C, Collagen Infusion, Spots + Blemish and CoQ10 + Caviar. The full Skin Republic range is £4.99 each and available from www.theskinrepublic.co.uk and select UK Boots and Superdrug stores.

BEAUTY UPDATES Dual Fragrance

Tiffany & Co. have launched its latest fragrances, Tiffany & Love for Him and Tiffany & Love for Her (£75 each). The two complementary fragrances are a tribute to emotional connection and the many ways love is defined and expressed. This is the brand’s first exploration into the dual fragrance category, and the inaugural launch of men’s fragrance.

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Feel Good this Festive Season

It’s easy to get wrapped up with organising events, finding gifts and ordering food and drinks for the Christmas season. Within a few weeks from November it feels like there is little time to take some time out for yourself or to enjoy special moments with friends and family.

Whether you’re looking for a gift experience for someone else, fancy an afternoon off from cooking, or are in desperate need of a Spa escape, Whittlebury Park is your one-stop destination to meet with friends and family. Have a browse of their Christmas Collections which have been hand-picked for Affinity readers.

Make time to Spa-rkle from £49 per person* You don’t need to put much time aside to rejuvenate this winter.

Take just a few hours out and treat yourself and a loved one to this gorgeous festive retreat. Enjoy the Heat & Ice Experiences, a two-course buffet lunch and a 40-minute aromatic Silent Night massage treatment. Imagine blends of Sweet Orange, Rose Geranium and Lavender filling your senses, you’ll be wishing you were there already!

A feast for family and friends from £5* This is no ordinary festive lunch, as Santa himself will be making an appearance with gifts for all children at Whittlebury’s Santa Sunday Lunch on Sunday 8th and 15th November. A delicious three-course carvery lunch will be served in a beautifully decorated venue to give a real sense of occasion, and the perfect setting to meet with loved ones. If you are celebrating Christmas day itself with others, this is a great way to have another gathering before the big day. Perhaps it’s Christmas day itself when you want to unwind? Enjoy a five-course menu in beautiful surroundings and meet Santa before he heads back to the North Pole. Make the little one’s day as they also receive a gift.

Stay another day from £299 per person* It’s not too late to book Christmas off. After you have made your way around various festive gatherings and shopped til you’ve dropped, why not let others take care of you from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day or add on Boxing Day too. Stay over at Whittlebury for two or three nights and enjoy lots of luxurious food and drinks, entertainment, a festive afternoon tea quiz plus use of the Leisure Club. With everything included, you can relax and do as much or as little as you wish.

Pssst…In need of a quick gift for that one last person on your list?

Let them choose with a Gift Card from Whittlebury. Download an e-voucher or send a card in the post. Add a specific monetary amount or choose a package, it’s up to you.

Visit www.whitlebury.com/christmas for lots more festive inspiration.

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Learning to be

Realistic

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F

or many of us life involves making a lot of effort to achieve certain things and for some being challenged by the notion of personal responsibility. Yes, there are things we can do that may have a positive impact on our health, wealth or happiness BUT we must also contend with that thing we call life.

By life I mean the unexpected things that we sometimes feel we must battle against. People letting us down or not living up to our expectations, challenges to health, accidents caused by carelessness or stupidity or even our own actions, and things no-one can have any control over, natural disasters, being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Then there are the ‘practical’ more mundane issues that can cause some upset, not getting what we wanted, things breaking, people being rude and hundreds of other things. As I’ve discussed in articles before we acknowledge we have no control over many of these things and all we are left with is managing our responses to them.

But there is another truth that we really need to get hold of, especially if we were raised on a diet of fairy tales.

The fact is that for most of us a rescue party isn’t helpfully stationed on the horizon. Yes, that’s right, the fairy Godmother, dashing prince or cavalry are probably not going to sweep in and make everything better.

Let’s just take a moment to let that sink in! The implication therefore is that it is very definitely up to us.

Some of us might be lucky enough to have people around us who can help, and perhaps protect us from the worst of life’s storms, but we haven’t really got much of a choice other than to get on with it.

So, whatever you perceive the problems in your life to be, YOU can be certain that the best person to sort them out is you. People say to me they’d be happy …..if. Life would be easier …..if. Success would be easy ………if.

It is up to you so forget the ‘if’ and instead think about what YOU can do – what steps YOU can take, because it actually is all up to YOU. Get the basics right I know, it gets boring but there is lots of research to suggest that getting enough sleep, regular exercise and a good diet actually helps us stay well, and can add to our wellbeing, happiness and success.

Build resilience Soldiers get tough because they train, people can run marathons or scale mountains or lots of other things because they train. Training may be specific for some things but always involves being exposed to challenges, whether that challenge is physical, mental or emotional.

The good news is that by design or through life we can learn to get tougher. We are all able to make positive choices to ‘train’ and become more resilient in particular areas, more able to cope with the situations we have to face. Of course we might not know exactly what is ahead (or presumably we would definitely prepare – like if we know we need to run a marathon) but we can safely assume life will present us with challenges, so identifying the areas where we don’t feel too strong can help us decide the particular training regime that may suit us best. Learning to manage our stress levels for example.

Make the right choices Whether it feels like it or not there is, in every situation, an element of choice, even if that is just in our response.

It is easy to assume we can do nothing about things that happen which are difficult and that we didn’t want, and often we can’t choose for them NOT to happen but we can choose our thoughts about them, our responses to them, how we behave, what we do in the light of them.

Choices have a cumulative impact. We may decide to have a healthier diet but every mealtime we must make that choice a reality. Only then will we gain the benefits of a healthier eating regime.

You are tougher than you think.

I listened to a very helpful podcast recently from ‘The Happiness Lab’ by Dr Laurie Santos. In the episode I listened to, the concept of ‘hedonic adaptation’ was discussed. This is the tendency of humans to quickly return to a relatively stable level of happiness despite major positive or negative events. What that means, and it is backed up by several scientific studies, is that the things we think are likely to make us happy often don’t, or at least only do so for a short time. But the good news is that things we thought would make us unhappy also don’t impact us as much as we might predict they would.

What we can all work on however is our general level of happiness, which is, of course, related to our wellbeing.

To explore more about happiness and living a good life follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/sheilamulvenney twitter www.twitter.com/sheilaattuned

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Beauty & Beyond

If we can only have one thing off our Christmas list this year, it has to be a Beauty Advent Calendar, the only problem we’ve got is what one to choose – if we’re extra good maybe Santa will bring us two!

Birchbox Countdown to Beauty Advent Calendar, £70, www.birchbox.co.uk

25 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar, £165. www.elemis.com

Jo Malone Advent Calendar, £320, www.jomalone.co.uk

Dream Big Ultimate Beauty Calendar, £99, www.thebodyshop.com

Cult Beauty Advent Calendar, £195, www.cultbeauty.co.uk

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Acqua di Parma Christmas Advent Calendar, £325, Harrods

The White Company Beauty Advent Calendar, £160, www.thewhitecompany.com

L'OCCITANE Classic Beauty Advent Calendar, £49, www.uk.loccitane.com

Espa Beauty Advent Calendar, £130, www.espa.com

Morris & Co Advent Calendar, £40, www.heathcote-ivory.com

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Midlife Madness If you’ve read any previous articles you will know that like many women (possibly a few men too) I happen to live with a partner who is football mad and while I can cope with the odd match, especially if a pre or post match meal ( and let’s be clear a hot dog or pasty does not fit with my definition of meal) and wine are involved, I couldn’t say that I share his passion. In addition, there are two sons and a daughter’s partner who also have this ‘addiction’. Trust me I do not use the term lightly.

mealtimes with talk of points and assists and wild cards and who they might buy or sell and how much it will cost. Honestly, I am driven to despair.

I have never, well not for a very a long time, (I still have painful memories), referred to football as just a game (definitely don’t try it at home if you live with football fanatics), but I can talk to you can’t I? Surely fantasy football is a game…… about a game – but they all take it so seriously. They have hijacked the family WhatsApp group as well as

Living in a land where we play games about games, pay for things not only without cash but without the card, I do think I can be forgiven for thinking life is becoming one big fantasy. In fact, at the station the other day I swear I heard the guard say that the train station would be patrolled by unicorns (and plain clothes officers).

I remember years ago there would be occasional televised matches and of course Match of the Day has for decades been a Saturday night institution but now there is pretty much 24/7 football. Is it just our house? But thanks to technology, especially tablets, laptops and iplayers, I can find myself lots of alternative things to watch and do.

But now most household conversations are taken over by football – not the real game, though it does come into it, but talk of the fantasy teams they have. I am not going to pretend I understand it but it seems to involve a lot of money ( fantasy money) the players are real players but they don’t actually play in the fantasy teams they get points according to what they do or don’t do in the ‘real’ teams.

It also seems there are certain time windows, which are very important when you have to do ‘stuff’ with your team, i.e. transfers, etc, I guess, but I am certainly not professing an in-depth knowledge.

And this stress is all happening at a time when I am trying to get my head around Apple Pay, which you could be forgiven for thinking was a new currency - not a bad idea, at least in the autumn using apples as currency, but no, this is a techno credit card thing. I mean I couldn’t believe how easy it was to spend money when the shops are shut and you are safe in bed buying on line. If you’ve entered your card details before and got the clever phone gizmos to remember it, you don’t even need to get out of bed to get the card. Phone to door in under 24 hours sometimes. But now we can pay without having the card about our person at all. Load it onto your phone wallet and you are good to go – makes spending money sooo easy and that’s a good thing, right?

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Paul Smith Rabbit Cross Body Bag, £325, John Lewis

Bamboo Luxe Leopard PJ's. £59.80, www.prettyyoulondon.co.uk

AFFINITY HOT PICKS

Christmas Planner, £8, Paperchase

InStyler MAX PRIME Revolving Styler, £89.99, www.boots.com

Jasper Conran Stripe Bag, £55, Debenhams

Savile Row Mens Fragrance Trio, POA, www.savilerowfragrance.co.uk

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Side Table, £115, Lipsy

GC Rose Gold Cablechic Watch, £375, www.thewatchhut.co.uk

Eva Sequin Star Jumper, £60, Monsoon

Embelished Velvet Headband, £20, River Island

Leopard Star Cowl Hoodie, £50, www.neonmarl.co.uk

Gold Love Disc Necklace, £16, www.johnny-loves-rosie.com

Iris Shoe, £370, www.meenugraziani.com

Christmas Penguin Mug, £15, Amara

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FASHION

Debenhams

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Teddy Trend if there’s only one coat you buy this year it has to be a Teddy coat, a trend that has skyrocketed this season and last.

Brown Teddy Coat, £30, Primark

New Look

Camel Teddy Coat, £80, Dorothy Perkins

Berry Teddy Coat, £59, M&Co

Pink Teddy Coat, £65, Roman Originals

Teal Teddy Coat, £70, JD Williams

Burgundy Teddy Coat £79, Topshop

Cream Teddy Coat, £30, Primark

Burnt Orange Teddy Fur Coat, £70, Simply Be

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Sassy in Stripes

It's all about the jumper at this time of year, and this seasons hot trend is stripes – we've found our favourites so you don’t have to

Femme Sia Striped Jumper, £65, John Lewis

Block Stripe Jumper, £20, Bonmarche Horizontal Stripe Jumper, £22, Bonmarche

Jasper Conran Stripe Jumper, £38, Debenhams M&Co Pink Stripe Jumper, £20, M&Co

Stripe Jumper, £26 , River Island

Stripe Jumper, £20, M&Co

Stripe Jumper, £29.50 Marks & Spencer

Stripe Jumper, £20, M&Co

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Check Mate

Exude check appeal with a check coat, the latest addition you need in your winter wardrobe.

Blue Check Coat, £65, Miss Selfridge

Brown Check Coat, £65, Principles

Check Coat, £40, Matalan Grey Check Coat, £35, Primark

Primark

Yellow Check Coat, £45, TU at Sainsburys

Check Coat, £85,, River Island

Check Coat, £160, Monsoon

Check Coat, £40, Matalan

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Winter Faux

For the winter month's most fashionable cover- up, check out these faux fur hooded coats, perfect to wrap up on a cold winters evening

Charcoal Faux Fur Hooded Coat, £45.99, New Look

Betty Barclay

Stone Faux Fur Hooded Coat, £55.99, New Look

Grey Faux Fur Hooded Coat, £70, Roman

Red Faux Fur Hooded Coat, £60, Bonmarche

Blue Faux Fur Hooded Coat, £70, Roman

Mustard Faux Fur Hooded Jacket, £100, Regatta

Khaki Faux Fur Hooded Coat, £75, Wallis

Navy Faux Fur Hooded Coat, £60, Bonmarche

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Best Foot Forward Every girl should have those go-to ankle boots, the ones that go with everything, the ones you can always reach for, especially when you’re not sure what to wear.

Burgundy Shine Ankle Boot, £40, Dorothy Perkins

Snake Ankle Boot, £34.99, Deichmannuk

Zebra Ankle Boot, £80, Very

Nude Ankle Boots< £32, Miss Selfridge

Camel Ankle Boot, £120, Dune London

Buckle Ankle Boots, £135, Dune London missselfridge

Floral Embroidered Ankle Boots, £16.99, TK Maxx

Brown Zip Ankle Boots, £45, M&Co

Snakeski Ankle Boots, £12,00, Primark

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Christmas Gift Guide Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done all the hard work for you, all you have to do is choose your favourites

Wilko

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Ella Jewel Ear Cuff, £24, www.johnny-loves-rosie.com Miller Harris Candle, £45, www.millerharris.com

ghd Rose Gold Gift Set, £159, www.ghdhair.com

COACH Floral Blush Gift Set, £49 Debenhams,

Freixenet Prosecco Twin Gift Box, £30, www.slurp.co.uk

Cross Body Bag, £68, Dune London

Ted Baker Bra, £28, Briefs, £14, Debenhams

Bea Slippers, £29.50, www.prettyyoulondon.co.uk

Neom Wellbeing Pod, £90, www.neomorganics.com

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Jo Malone Trio of Candles, £170, www.jomalone.com

The Lady Loves Not sure what to get the woman in your life for Christmas? We bring you a roundup of some of our favourite gifts she’s bound to love to find under the tree

Beats Solo Pro, £269.95, Beatsbydre.com.

Michael-Kors-Exclusive Ritz Two Colour Watch, £239, www.beaverbrooks.co.uk

Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir Collection, £86, www.jomalone.co.uk

Star Placement Jumper £98, www.thewhitecompany.com

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Limone a GoGo, £35, www.carluccios.com

Lapland Luxe Biscuit Tin, £45, www.biscuiteers.com

Il Massimo Hamper, £75, www.carluccios.com

Laduree Paris Pampille Hamper, £58, www.laduree.co.uk

Taste of Bettys Gift Tin, £40, www.bettys.co.uk .

Prosecco Panatone, £19.95, www.carluccios.com

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Hotel Chocolat Ultimate Christmas Hamper, £500, www.hotelchocolat.com

Festive Foodie

Large Christmas Cracker, £36, Hotel Chocolat

Perfect gifts to indulge your inner foodie this Festive season

Cartwright & Butler, Luxury Chocolate Cake in Loaf Tin, £10, Debenhams

Pierre Marcolini The Christmas Tree, £129, Selfridges

Green & Black's Indulgent Chocolate Basket, £30, www.greenandblacks.co.uk.

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Boppi the Body Shaking Lama, £25, Tesco

Blume Doll, £10, Tesco

Unicorn Hottie, £15, Debenhams

Sequin Brussel Sprout Top, £8, M&Co

POP! Fortnite, £5 , Tesco

Kindi Kids Doll, £25, Tesco

LOL Bling Series, £11, Tesco

My Tool Bench, £79.95, www.letoyvan.com

Pig in Blanket Chocolate, £3.50, Tesco

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Doctor's Set, £39.95, www.letoyvan.com

Christmas Jumper, £14, Marks & Spencer

Silver Cross Special Edition Princess Dolls Pram, £400, www.silvercrossbaby.com

Little Cherubs Santa’s been busy choosing gifts that your little ones will love to open on Christmas morning

Toy Story 2 Buzz & Woody Set, £30, Tesco

Ice Cream Trolley, £149.95, www.letoyvan.com

Minnie Mouse Santa Slippers, £8, Primark

Santa Chocolate Pot, £2, Hotel Chocolat

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Barbour Wax Cotton Holdall, £200, John Lewis Barbour Tartan Scarf, £125, John Lewis

Makers Mark Christmas Jumper, £30, Tesco

Ciroc White Grape Vodka, £35.90, Amazon

Charbonnel et Walker Whisky Truffles, £15, Harrods

Hot Water Bottle, £15, Debenhams

The English Whisky Gift Pack, £24.99, www.englishwhisky.co.uk

Molton Brown Bath & Shower Gel Cracker, £20, John Lewis

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Elemis Grooming on the Go, £55, www.elemis.com

Mens Room

Montblanc Explorer, £70, Fenwick

We’ve found the best gifts for the man in your life this Christmas

Bobble Hat, £14.99, Next

Camden Watch, £169, www.camdenwatchcompany.com

Roberts Radio, £189, John Lewis

Barbour Top, £109, www.barbour.com

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Earrings, £8.50, Next

Chocolate & Gin Collection, £20, www.hotelchocolat.com

Emma Bridgewater 'Bring in the Green' Mug, £19.95, www.emmabridgewater.co.uk

Cow Print Bucket Bag, £18, Debenhams

Dr.PAWPAW Lip Balm Gift, £9.99, Harvey Nichols

Animal Leggings, £20, Debenhams

Pink Leather Pom Pom Gloves, £18, Dorothy Perkins

The Intuition Journal, £12.99, www.jochunyan.com

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Stocking Fillers

Pearl Embellished Hair Clips, £12, www.johnny-loves-rosie.com

We’ve found just the thing to pop in those stockings hanging on the fireplace, and all for under £25

Travel Mug, £15, Debenhams

Fur Eye Mask, £15, www.thewhitecompany.com

Green & Blacks Chocolate Lovers Gift, £15, www.greenandblacks.co.uk

Elemis Superfood Duo Gift Set, £15.50

Noble Isle Heavenly Hamper Set, £25 www.shop.roh.org.uk

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food & drink

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Gin & Tonic Inspiration

Perfect Puds

Searching for a delicious alternative to Christmas pudding? Then look no further than LillyPuds' new Great British Favourites range. Recognising that not everyone wants the traditional fruity pudding during the festive season, LillyPuds has developed five new classic flavours to appeal to a whole range of tastes.

The new Saucy Lemon Pudding, Chocolate Pudding with Cheeky Cherry Sauce and Saucy Zingy Ginger Pudding with Sticky Ginger Sauce offer a delicious alternative for the festive feast. Available at a RRP £7.95 from www.lillypuds.co.uk

Popcorn Advent

Christmas is the perfect time to indulge and this year, the family behind Joe & Seph’s have created their much-awaited Gourmet Popcorn Advent Calendar, now with more popcorn, the corniest jokes ever and gluten free for the first time!! Designed as a beautiful snow-covered Victorian shop-front (£25), this year’s calendar features 12 flavours, behind the 24 windows, including Speculoos, Orange Chocolate and Banoffee Pie popcorn, available from www.joeandsephs.co.uk

Müller, the nation's favourite yogurt brand has launched its first ever gin & tonic inspired yogurt.

Made with milk from British farms, the Gin & Tonic inspired yogurt is fat free, high in protein and contains 0% added sugar.

Available in a six pack format (3 x Gin & Tonic flavour yogurt and 3 x Pink Gin & Elderflower flavour yogurt) for a RRP £3.

FOODIE NEWS A Chocolate Indulgence

Kimpton Fitzroy London have launched their new 'Do You Like Chocolate?' Afternoon Tea to celebrate the onset of the festive season. The chocolate-inspired menu is a collaboration between Executive Pastry Chef and Winner of Bake Off: The Professionals 2019, Thibault Marchand and Director of Bars, Sean Fennelly, and features a selection of indulgent sweets paired with sharp and effervescent cocktails.

The tea will feature intelligent cocktail pairings alongside elements of the traditional afternoon tea with a chocolate spin.

‘Do You Like Chocolate?’ will be set in the hotel’s decadent cocktail bar, Fitz’s, surrounded by roaring fires, rich interiors and extravagant details befitting of the festive period.

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Sticky Soy Baked Sesame Salmon “This dish is just perfect for sharing with family and friends on a cold autumn evening”

Ingredients 800g salmon fillet 4tbsp soy sauce, plus 1tbsp for cucumber 100ml sweet chilli sauce 2tbsp sesame seeds, black & white 4 little gem lettuce, washed and drained 2 spring onions, finely sliced 1 cucumber, cut into 1 inch chunks 1 lemon 1tbsp chilli oil 250g Jasmine rice, cooked to packet instructions

Method

Mix 4tbsp soy sauce with 100ml of sweet chilli sauce, then lay the salmon fillet (skin side down) onto greaseproof paper and pour half of the sweet chilli/soy sauce marinade over the top, using a spoon to make sure it’s evenly covered. Sprinkle 1tbsp of the mixed sesame seeds over the salmon, then bake for 15-20 mins at 200°C/gas mark 6.

Put the cucumber chunks into a mixing bowl and smash lightly with the heel of a knife or a rolling pin. Then add the remaining soy, juice of 1⁄2 the lemon and chilli oil. Stir well.

Spread the cooked rice out on a large serving plate. Place the salmon fillet on top, leaving the skin behind on the tray –you can crisp this up and eat separately.

Put the smacked cucumbers on top of the salmon and finish with the chopped spring onions.

Put the dish in the centre of the table and dig in with spoons, stuffing a mix of everything into lettuce cups!

Recipe from: Food to Share Recipe Book www.spareroom.co.uk

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Chicken and South African Raisin Supper

Ingredients

“Raisins add a subtle sweetness to this easy chicken dish.”

1tbsp vegetable oil 4 chicken legs or 8 chicken thighs 1 large red onion, sliced 200ml South African dry white wine 200ml chicken stock 100g South African raisins 1tbsp chopped fresh parsley 2-3 thyme sprigs 2-3tsp chicken gravy granules 100ml double cream 30g ground almonds Chopped fresh parsley and toasted almonds, to garnish Method

Heat the vegetable oil in a flameproof casserole dish and add the chicken legs or thighs. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on both sides (this is important for a good flavour).

Add the onion and cook for 2 minutes, then pour in the white wine and stock. Add the South African raisins, chopped parsley and thyme sprigs. Cover and cook on the hob over a low heat for 1hour 15 minutes, or cook in the oven for the same time (preheated to 190°C, Fan Oven 170°C, Gas Mark 5).

Just before serving, stir in the chicken gravy granules to thicken, then add the double cream and ground almonds – reheating gently for a few moments. Serve, garnished with chopped parsley and toasted almonds.

Cook’s tip: Serve with baked potatoes (cooked in the oven for 1 hour 15 minutes) or with creamy mash.

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South African Raisin, Orange and Pistachio Swirls “These gorgeous buns look amazing – and taste even better”

Ingredients 225g strong plain white flour, plus extra for dusting 1/4tsp salt 25g butter 2tsp fast-action yeast 25g caster sugar 1 large egg, beaten 75ml warm milk Filling 50g butter, melted 50g light muscovado sugar 120g South African raisins 50g pistachio nuts, finely chopped Finely grated zest of 1 orange Few drops of vegetable oil Decoration 25g caster sugar 50g icing sugar 2-3tsp orange juice Fine shreds of orange zest and chopped pistachios, to decorate

Method

Preheat the oven to 210°C / Fan oven 190°C / Gas Mark 7. Put the flour and salt into a large mixing bowl and rub in the butter with your fingertips. Stir in the yeast and sugar. Beat the egg and milk together, then stir into the flour mixture.

Bring the mixture together to form a soft dough.

Dust a work surface with a little flour. Turn the dough onto this and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and leave to rest for 10 minutes while you make the filling, by mixing together the melted butter with the muscovado sugar, South African raisins, pistachio nuts and orange zest.

Roll out the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 25x30cm. Sprinkle the filling evenly on top. Roll up from one long end and cut into 9 slices. Grease a 23cm (9in) cake tin with a few drops of vegetable oil, then arrange the buns in it (cut sides up), spacing them apart. Cover with cling film and set aside in a warm place for 1 hour, or until roughly doubled in size.

Bake for approximately 18-20 minutes until the buns are risen and golden brown. Cool for 5 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack.

For the glaze, put the caster sugar and 3tbsp water into a small saucepan. Heat to dissolve, then boil for 40- 60 seconds. Brush over the warm buns. Cool completely.

To decorate, mix the icing sugar with the orange juice to make a thin icing. Drizzle over the buns, then sprinkle them with fine shreds of orange zest and chopped pistachios. Leave to set, then serve.

Cook’s tip: Another time, use finely chopped pecan nuts with lemon zest and juice instead of orange.

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Festive Stollen and Mulled Cider

Stollen is a richly spiced and fruity cake which is perfectly paired with a warm mulled cider. Whittlebury Park’s Head Pastry Chef, Ben Clark shares an easy method for this delicious and traditional seasonal treat.

Ingredients: 500g plain flour 75g fresh yeast 37.5g dried yeast 250g lukewarm milk 250g caster sugar 150g mixed peel 300g sultanas 100g flaked almonds 65g rum/ brandy Small pinch of salt 150g margarine ¼ tsp ground cardamom ¼ tsp cinnamon ¼ tsp mixed spice 1 lemon skin grated 100g marzipan Mulled Cider: 2 pints draught cider ½ orange zest ½-lemon zest ½ lime zest 1 star anise 1 cinnamon stick 4 cloves

Method: Gently warm the milk and mix in the yeast. Mix flour and sugar together. In a mixing machine bowl, combine the ingredients to make a dough until it resembles bread Leave the dough to prove until it has doubled in size and springs back halfway

Meanwhile, in a bowl, add all dried ingredients and fruit. Add the dough to the bowl and incorporate. Then, add the butter at the end, mixing it in well. Leave to prove again.

Split the dough into two pieces and roll out thinly. Roll marzipan into logs the same size as the dough. Roll up the dough around the marzipan and centralise in the dough.

Once rolled place onto a baking tray with greaseproof paper and leave to prove.

After proving, bake at 170C / 325F / Gas 3 for 18-20 minutes

Add all ingredients to a pan and gently warm up. Serve in a large jug and decant into decorative glasses.

Whittlebury, Towcester NN12 8QH www.whittlebury.com

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Boutique-y-Gin Advent, £49.95, www.masterofmalt.com

Coatco Gin Advent, £59.89, Costco

Every Week

Sunday lunch

Only £11.95 for a main course sunday roast.

Light Bites Lunch

Over 30 Dishes between £4 and £10, Served Monday to Saturday 12-5 pm

Two for Tuesday

Buy one get one Free on all Main Courses served 12-9

Thirsty Thursday

Half price drinks every Thursday 4pm-6.30 pm with free nibbles

Gin-gle All the Way The countdown’s on, and what a great way to get into the festive spirit (literally), than an advent calendar full of your favourite tipple – Gin!

Fish & Chips

Every Friday 12 - 9pm Beer Battered Fish & Chips English Drink Company's Gin & Tonic Advent, £95, John Lewis

Fever Tree Gin & Tonic Advent, £60, Waitrose

01234 781 678

info@millhouse-riverside.co.uk www.millhouse-riverside.co.uk millhouse_hotel

Millhouse Hotel and Riverside Restaurant Mill Road, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1NP

Gin O'Clock Advent, £99.95, www.notonthehighstreet.com

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DECK THE HALLS Whether it’s traditional or quirky we’ve got the bauble for you!

y's 5,

The White Stuff

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1

4

shimmering silver

2

5

3

6

7

8

Dobbies

9

10

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Beaded Bauble, £2.99, Dobbies Star Bauble, £5, Habitat Snowflake Chain, £6, John Lewis Beaded Bauble, £28 (set of 12), Amara Silver Tinsel Glass Bauble, £6, John Lewis Silver Swirl Bauble, £6, John Lewis Silver Sweet Bauble, £34, The Shop Floor Project Glass Bauble, £3.49, The Contemporary Home Aerifacrually Raised Silver Bauble, £39, Harrods Silver Pearl Bauble, £3.49, The Contemporary Home

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1

Pretty in Pink 2 4 3 5

6

7

8

Dobbies

9

10

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Dipped Onion Bauble, £6, John Lewis Feather Bauble, £7, Fenwick Frosted Flower Bauble, £6, John Lewis Onion Ball, £2, B&Q Pink Sequin Bauble, £4, Sainsbury's Home Swirl Bauble, £7, John Lewis Vandels Macaron Decoration, £8, Fenwick Opaque Glass Bauble, £4.20, Gisela Graham Crushed Glitter Bauble, £5.55, Gisela Graham Sequin Bauble, £5, John Lewis

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1

Beautiful Blues 4 2 3

5

6

7 9

8 Dobbies

10

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Blue Beaded Bauble, £4, John Lewis Feathered Bauble, £7, John Lewis Planet Earth Bauble, £10.50, Gisela Graham Blue Star Bauble, £2.99, Homesense Navy And Gold Bauble, £3.99, Dobbies Jewel Bauble, £4.99, Homesense Textured Bauble, £7, John Lewis Blue Bobbly Bauble (set of 4), £6.99, Homesense Blue Glitter Star, £4.49, The Contemporary Home Turquoise Bauble (set of 6), £8, Habitat

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1

Gold Rush 2 3 5

4 6

7

8 9

10 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

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8.

9.

10.

Spun Glass Bauble, £25, (pack of 4) Amara Gold Confetti Bauble, £4, The National Trust Gold Glitter Starburst, £5, Debenhams Gold Bauble, £5, John Lewis Gold Swirl Bauble, £8, John Lewis Ombre Twigs Bauble, £9, Harrods Swirl and Glitter Bauble, £1, B&Q Starburst Bauble, £15, Amara World Globe Bauble, £19, Amara Stud Bauble, £4, Marks & Spencer

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1

Novel and Nice 3 4 2 5

6 8

7 9

George Hom

e

10

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2.

3.

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5.

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7.

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Camera Bauble, £2.99 George Home Christmas Cheer (pack of 4), £10, www.sassandbelle.com Felt Reindeer Bauble, £6, John Lewis Elf Reindeer Bauble, £3.99, Homesense Hippo Bauble, £8, John Lewis Mince Pie Bauble, £7, John Lewis Lady Shoe Bauble, £5.99, Homesense Glass Hanging Flamingo Bauble, £8.75, The Farthing Caravan Bauble, £8, John Lewis White Car Bauble, £12, John Lewis

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Fry’s Footie Corner Well as I write this column my club, Peterborough United are top of the league.

It is early days but anyone who says they wouldn’t want their team to be top at this stage of the season is a liar! Of course, it doesn’t mean anything at this stage, but it does breed confidence and hopefully we can continue moving through the season in that manner.

Recently, the FA Cup first round draw took place and it was sad to see that one team would get a bye into the second round due to the demise and subsequent exclusion of Bury Football Club. We were actually very close to getting that bye (we were the last few teams left in the hat) but Chichester City got that ‘honour’.

In the Premier League, Liverpool have made an excellent start although in the Champions League, Manchester City have been positive in their group games and secured three successive wins. I think it is about time that City lifted that trophy. They have spent a lot of money and the owners crave success in Europe, maybe this will be Peps year. He hasn’t won the Champions League since 2011.

He didn’t win it with Bayern Munich and hasn’t won it with City but they are well equipped this year, providing they boost their defensive options in the January transfer window. Tottenham have had a sloppy start to the season and there has been a lot of talk behind the scenes about where it has all gone wrong, but I don’t think the manager should be copping the stick he has received. He took them to the final of the Champions League last year against all the odds. He deserves more time.

Leicester City continue to be the team to watch. They are entertaining, have a lot of good technicians in midfield and still retain that explosive attacking variety with James Maddison and Jamie Vardy on a great wavelength. I believe they could be the team to get into the top six this season. Brendan has already done a great job.

One of my old teams, Southend United appointed ex-Arsenal and England defender Sol Campbell has their new manager last month. Sol was in charge at Macclesfield up until the summer and did a fine job in keeping them in the league.

He has deserved his opportunity but I bet he was wondering what he had done as he sat in the stands as his side lost 7-1 at home to Doncaster with nine men. Of course, it will take time to implement his style and Southend will certainly be harder to beat as the league season progresses.

Barry Fry

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TRAVEL

New York

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Festive Experiences at The Peninsula New York Guests of all ages at The Peninsula New York are invited to enjoy the magic of Fifth Avenue and New York City this holiday season with two special packages guaranteed to create lasting memories for all.

Superbly situated at the centre of Manhattan’s most glamorous midtown shopping and entertainment district, The Peninsula New York occupies a 23-story, 1905 landmark BeauxArts building at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 55th Street.

Nights Before Christmas Packages Holiday fun for the whole family. At The Peninsula New York, they go all-out for Christmas with lots of thoughtful family touches.

Bedrooms are decorated with Christmassy flowers and a festooned Christmas tree, as well as a cute gingerbread play tent. Children can enjoy seasonal games like hunt the candy cane and gingerbread cookie decorating, as well as private access to The Peninsula Sweet Shoppe in the iconic Lobby, then snuggle down with Christmas movies on tap.

Rates from $1,195 (approx. £950) for a Grand Luxe Room from 15th November – 30th December 2019.

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In-room gingerbread playhouse In-room candy cane scavenger hunt Gingerbread cookie decorating kit Exclusive access to The Peninsula Sweet Shoppe

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Peninsula Nutcracker ornament Christmas movie library Holiday-themed floral arrangement In-room Christmas tree (Deluxe Suites only) Daily American breakfast for two adults Daily breakfast for two children

Holly Jolly New York Holiday Package The ultimate New York holiday experience for families and couples alike at The Peninsula New York. Bedrooms are decorated with Christmassy flowers and a festooned Christmas tree. Tick off your New York festive bucket list with a walking tour of the best holiday window displays, VIP admission to the Top of the Rock, a trip to Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights to view the infamous holiday light display and VIP access to Saks Fifth Avenue pre-opening for that lastminute Christmas shopping.

Rates from $1,345 (approx. £1,070) for a Superior Room from 15th November – 30th December 2019.

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Holiday window display walking tour VIP admission to Top of the Rock VIP access to Saks Fifth Avenue before opening Trip to Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights to view the famous holiday light display - Holiday welcome amenity - Christmas movie library

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Holiday-themed floral arrangement In-room Christmas tree (Deluxe Suites only) Daily American breakfast for two adults Daily breakfast for two children

Holiday Dining & Events Clement restaurant presents an exquisite offering for each seasonal occasion, be it Thanksgiving, Christmas or the New Year, while Gotham Lounge features a special Holidaythemed Afternoon Tea during December. Salon de Ning will once again host a New Year’s Eve Rooftop Party.

Children’s Festivities A wide-range of children’s holiday activities include a Sweet Shoppe in the lobby for hotel guests, daily festive-themed Afternoon Tea in Gotham Lounge. A special Gingerbread Tea and a Gingerbread House Decorating Class will take place on two Saturdays in December.

Private Events Whether it’s a cocktail reception in Gotham Lounge, company get together in the elegant private event space or a plated dinner in Clement restaurant, the hotel’s dedicated events team will arrange the perfect seasonal affair set amongst dazzling decorations and sparkling views of Fifth Avenue. Clement’s Private Dining Room is the perfect space for intimate, familystyle holiday meals and gatherings.

Pampering Holiday Bliss The award-winning Peninsula Spa offers an ideal retreat from the demands of the city.

Guests can treat themselves to a blissful day at the spa or purchase a gift card for one of our bespoke seasonal packages as the perfect gift of wellness this holiday season.

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Winter at Tantora Returns to

AlUla for Season Two ollowing a successful debut in 2018, Winter at Tantora, the cultural festival celebrating incredible art, music, culture and history against the timeless backdrop of AlUla, will return on December 19th with an exciting new line-up of performers, experiences and events. The 12-weekend festival, which will run until March 7th 2020, invites arts and culture aficionados from around the globe to enjoy and experience a unique event that is rooted in AlUla, home to Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra.

F

The event promises a legendary line-up of A list performers from around the world and spanning diverse genres, including Timeless Pop, Opera and Classical Music. Details about the festival’s line-up and exceptional surroundings can be found at www.experiencealula.com with tickets now on sale.

Now in its second year, the Winter at Tantora festival features an array of activities and excursions for fans of music and culture as well as adventure seekers, history lovers and sports enthusiasts. The festival will host the AlUla Balloon Festival, vintage aircraft flights, the second largest endurance horse race in the world, culinary experiences curated by Michelin starred chefs, traditional souks as well as luxury brand pop-ups.

Complementing this will be tours of ancient sites over 2000 years-old that will be brought to life using state-of-art AR technology.

Last year, the inaugural festival greeted over 37,000 visitors from around the world over 10-weeks and hosted household names such as Andrea Bocelli, Yanni, Majida El Roumi and Lang Lang for sell-out performances. Building on this success, organisers, are extending this year’s festival by two weeks and

are expecting over 40,000 visitors to experience the rich display of culture and heritage on offer.

Within the Winter at Tantora festival and inspired by AlUla’s tradition of marking the change of seasons, will also be the Tantora Festival which celebrates the start of winter.

Promising a feast for the senses, visitors will enjoy the authentic essence of AlUla from the traditional souk, art and performance theatre through to enjoying local delicacies.

Nowhere else in world can stargazers take in the constellations like they can in AlUla and see them as past civilisations did, unpolluted by modernity.

Positioned as “A Timeless Celebration in a Timeless Place” the festival has four themes: • • • •

Reimagining Heritage Cultural Oasis Adventure and Discovery Secret Escape

Reimagining Heritage offers visitors the opportunity to witness ancient cities brought to life, not as monuments of the past but living communities, showcasing how past civilisations lived in the ancient cities of Hegra and Dadan. Guided by expert storytellers, the Heritage Sites Experience gives guests the chance to be transported to the thriving sites of Hegra and Dadan and witness history reawakened. Visitors will be invited to use the very latest in tech-innovation such as augmented reality, video projection and imaging technology to recreate an

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atmospheric and informative experience unlike any other seen in the Kingdom.

The festival also brings cultures together through the medium of food â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from the hot pot of street food at the Winter Park to the regional delicacies on show at Wadi AlQura market.

Cultural Oasis will bring international stars from around the world to perform at the state-of-the-art 500-seat Maraya Concert Hall. Constructed to emulate a mirage emerging from the ancient rocky landscape, the concert hall is wrapped in walls of mirrors that shimmer into the horizon creating a feast for the eyes.

Here, guests will enjoy performances by musicians from the worlds of recording, opera and classic music

Adventure and Discovery brings a dose of adrenalin to the festival. The Vintage Aircraft Experience is a high-flying adventure offering birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye views in vintage aircrafts dating to World War 2. For a serene glide through the skies, the AlUla Hot Air Balloon Festival is calling on guests to be part of a 100-strong flotilla of hot air balloons at sunrise or indulge in a solo flight at sunset. Guests can also watch from the side-lines as over 200 riders from across the globe attempt to navigate the 120km course as part of the Fursan Endurance Race, the second biggest endurance race in the world Secret Escape provides an exclusive and high-end journey into fine dining with Michelin-starred chefs curating bespoke experiences for the visiting gastronome.

Set within a site of immeasurable historic significance, Secret Escape offers the only experience of this kind in the world.

For the discerning traveller the Winter at Tantora Festival offers an unmissable array of culture, activities and experiences in an enthralling setting.

AlUla - A Timeless Celebration in a Timeless Place!

The Winter at Tantora festival will take place from December 19th 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; March 7th 2020 in AlUla, Saudi Arabia. To book tickets or for more information, please visit www.experiencealula.com

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Four Countries One Lake 70+ Christmas Markets n the heart of Europe, Lake Constance offers travellers a wealth of cultural activities to experience this festive season. The four countries around the lake including Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and the Principality of Liechtenstein, are perfect for exploration and Christmas cheer. From star-strewn St. Gallen and magical Mainau Island to the mountainous wonderland in Vaduz and a festive cruise across the lake, there are over 70 Christmas markets to explore around the lake, with local delicacies to taste at each one.

I

Trace your way through the constellations in the City of Stars - St. Gallen, Switzerland Celebrating 10 years as the ‘City of Stars’, St. Gallen lies on the Swiss shore of Lake Constance. Every winter, the city of St. Gallen illuminates the centre with seven hundred stars, guiding guests through the iconic Christmas market made up of 50 Christmas stalls that line the narrow streets of the romantic old town, selling traditional goods, gifts and favours.

Situated just south of Lake Constance, St. Gallen is a charming city that offers travellers the chance to wander a cultural hub visiting the statue of St. Gall, while marvelling at the architecture and museums that embody the city. Since 1983, the Abbey of St Gallen has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to a Baroque cathedral and the oldest medieval monastery library in the world, that has become the symbol and treasure of St. Gallen. The city sees itself as the ideal base for travellers on a journey to visit the four countries that surround Lake Constance. Local culinary delights include Bieber from St. Gallen (gingerbread treats made from honey and filled with marzipan), Raclette and Fondue and Nusstorte Nut Cake (pie with a nutting filling).

From 28th November – 22nd December 2019, visitors can stay in a hotel of their choice for 1-3 nights in the city and receive a free Christmas-themed city tour and a Christmas gift, courtesy of St. Gallen.

Stay at Einstein St. Gallen - Hotel Congress Spa from £122 per person per night for a double room with breakfast included.

To book, visit www.tportal.toubiz.de/StGallen/package/.

Uncover the magic of Christmas on Mainau Island, Germany Throughout the year, Mainau Island is known as ‘Flower Island’ for its vibrant displays of foliage and blooms from around the world. During the cooler months, while the gardens sleep, Mainau comes alive with winter magic.

This year, guests are invited to discover the brand-new boutique market located in the baroque castle courtyard where they can find handmade treasures and local culinary delights.

Guided tours around the snow-covered Island, Swedish buffets, and cosy spaces such as the Palm House and Butterfly House beckon visitors to slow down and absorb the Christmas ambiance. During the Advent season,

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guests are encouraged to take part in a hands-on baking workshop where they will learn to craft homemade Lullebullar (pastry with saffron), Pepparkakor (gingerbread) or Kanelbulle (cinnamon rolls).

You can book a baking workshop on 6th December from 2pm-5.30pm, with prices starting from £22 per person.

Cruise between two countries and three Christmas markets in Bregenz, Austria and Lindau, Germany.

Travellers who want to maximise their time in the region can do so with a festive cruise across the lake from Bregenz, Austria to Lindau Harbour, Germany that showcases the wintry beauty of Lake Constance as well as the charming model train, nativity scene and fairy tale forest on board.

As the ship enters the lighted harbour, it also passes the famous illuminated lighthouse and Bavarian Lion sculpture.

In addition to the cruise, guests can experience three Christmas markets in one day across the two countries.

The first two are located in Bregenz, Austria: one located at the newly designed market place in the city-centre, and one in the Old Upper Town. The city-centre Christmas market includes a nativity with live animals, a small ice rink, puppet theatre, and countless festive amusements. While the Upper Old Town Christmas market takes place in the medieval lanes of the city, offering a quieter, but no less magical, experience. Delicious local treats include Käseknödel (soft cheese dumplings, Glühmost (delicious hot apple cider drink) and Riebel (savoury or sweet polenta vegetarian dish).

On arrival at Lindau Harbour, guests can immerse themselves in the harbour Christmas Market where they’ll find 170 festively decorated stalls, craft gift ideas, and special Christmas treats.

Stay two nights at Bayerischer Hof Lindau, (21-24 November, 28 November–1 December, 5-8 December, 1215 December) with prices starting from £210 per person in a double room and include breakfast buffet, access to spa facilities, a complimentary gingerbread pastry and cup of mulled wine, three-course Advent menu, free admission and one drink at “Make Your Game” Lindau Casino, additional bookable activities including Advent rides, city tours, massages and beauty treatments.

Visit www.bayerischerhof-lindau.de for more details or to book.

Find your fairy tale at the foot of the Princely Castle in Vaduz, Liechtenstein In the heart of Vaduz’s old town, a wintery wonderland comes to life each advent season. From this vantage point, visitors can experience a festive view of the fairy tale Princely Castle perched above the city while perusing over 70 Christmas stands heralding handcrafted Christmas gifts.

Local treats await, including Käsknöpfle mit Apfelmus (cheese pasta with apple sauce), Ribel (warm polenta dish with milk, cream, sugar or also made with sour cheese), and Tatsch mit Kompott (mini pancakes served with warm fruit preserves), offering foodies a true taste of the region.

Children can enjoy a carriage ride or a festive ride through the city on a fairy tale train, and families can test their iceskating skills at ‘Vaduz on Ice.’ Little ones can also take a visit to the Christmas Mailbox to post a letter to Father Christmas.

Stay at Residence Vaduz Hotel between 8th November 2019 – 6th January 2020 with prices starting from £216 per room per night, on a room only basis. To book, visit www.residence.li/

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Hop Aboard The Flying Carpet

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national Best Newcomer television awards, a role he now reprises in the popular BBC spinoff series, Holby City.

There is nothing like a dame, as David Robbins, the fragrant Widow Twankey, well knows.

David originally trained as a stage manager specialising in wardrobe and prop making and is also a trained puppeteer and director of the Dab Hand Puppet Company.

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t’s time to hop aboard the flying carpet and get ready for this year’s wish-filled, family pantomime in Old Peking!

It’s going to be a spectacular adventure (Oooh!) combined with a beautiful love story (Aaaah!) set against the wicked ambitions of a scary magician (Boo!).

Joe Pasquale, the star of stage, screen, reality TV and blissfully funny comedy, will lead the cast in the role of Aladdin’s hapless brother, Wishee Washee.

Joe is well-known and best-loved for being one of the hardest-working and top-selling live comedians in British comedy today. He’s been delighting audiences for more than 20 years with his live stand-up tours and infectious sense of fun.

Along the way he’s voiced characters for Hollywood movies, toured in several major theatrical productions including Mel Brooks’ The Producers, starred in the West End production of Spamalot (and brought the show to Milton Keynes) and has been crowned King of the Jungle in ITV’s I’m A Celebrity…Get Me out Of Here.

Joe has appeared at five Royal Variety Performances and toured the UK in a live stage incarnation of the classic sitcom Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em in the iconic role of Frank Spencer. MKT panto audiences won’t know what’s hit them!

Best-known for winning the BBC talent show Any Dream Will Do, Lee Mead plays our hero, Aladdin. Lee won the title role in the West End revival of Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat to rave reviews. Since then he has had lead roles in Wicked and Legally Blonde in the West End, released several solo albums and toured extensively.

No stranger to pantomime, Lee has starred in six Qdos Entertainment pantomimes, including his star turn as Prince Charming in their critically acclaimed production of Cinderella at the London Palladium. Lee starred as Ben “Lofty” Chiltern in Casualty, being nominated for various

He has worked as an actor in the West End, at Chichester Festival Theatre and on tour.

But if it’s a real dame you need, look no further. David has appeared in outrageous frocks playing a whole assortment of dames, including Widow Twankey, in more pantomimes than you’ve had hot mince pies.

David designs his own fabulous wardrobe of costumes and creates all his own wigs as, during the rest of the year when not actually donning a frock, he is a wig maker, making wigs for dames and productions up and down the country.

Six months on, Tegan Bannister is making a very welcome return to Milton Keynes Theatre having played Èponine in the fabulous production of Les Misérables both here and in the West End. Since training at the Sylvia Young Theatre School and Urdang Academy, Tegan has also played Young Nala in The Lion King at The Lyceum in London and appeared as Leah in BBC 1’s Casualty. Tegan is polishing up her crown ready to play Princess Jasmine.

Staged by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, and the company behind Milton Keynes Theatre’s annual pantomime since 2017, Aladdin will feature the MK hallmark of outstanding entertainment for theatregoers of all ages with laundry-loads of laughter, audience participation and festive magic.

Emma Sullivan, Theatre Director at Milton Keynes Theatre said: “We’re thrilled to welcome the return of Qdos Entertainment to Milton Keynes Theatre following the roaring success of Robin Hood last year. We’re looking forward to seeing you all at this year’s magical pantomime adventure, Aladdin!”

With further casting to be announced, audiences should hop aboard their flying carpets and point them towards the Milton Keynes Box Office to secure their seats for this year’s wish-filled family pantomime.

Aladdin is appearing at Milton Keynes Theatre from Saturday 7th December 2019 – Sunday 12th January 2020.

Tickets are available from www.atgtickets.com

nov2019.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 29/10/2019 21:04 Page 62

STARS Manish Kumar Arora (K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant) reveals whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in store for you this month

Scorpio (23 October â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21 November) You'll be reconsidering your role in life, your personal selfimage and your ability to influence others. This is a period when it pays to make an effort - the charm of your personality, willingness to cooperate with others and sense of humour will make a big difference. Love and romance can be favourable.

The people you meet would perhaps be a little quirky and certainly original, but possibly also quite inspiring.

Favourable Dates: November 2, 6, 11, 15, 23, 30 Favourable Colours: Blue & Red

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Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) You are in a practical frame of mind making it a good time for working on projects that truly matter, and for taking care of business. Restructuring and organizing efforts can pay off.

Accepting the consequences of your own actions and taking charge of your own life will awaken the responsibility and maturity that places you on a higher level, where true success and fulfilment are now possible to attain. Dealings and transactions will work out smoothly and effortlessly for you, as you score one over your competitors.

Favourable Dates: November 1, 4, 10, 13, 20, 29 Favourable Colours: White & Purple

Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) This can be a strong time for innovative money making or money managing ideas, and a partner or close friend can play an integral role in this. You have self-control and selfdiscipline to draw from and you can make real progress, even if it’s in small ways, towards your goals. There is a stronger desire to play it safe right now, but at the same time, you’re not afraid of a little change and innovation, as long as it’s within reasonable limits.

Favourable Dates: November 2, 7, 11, 16, 21, 24 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Green

Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) It is a good time to focus on tasks that you’ve put on a shelf or that require a practical and focused mindset. It’s a great time for reorganizing your personal space and for finishing jobs you’ve left uncompleted. It’s a good time to set emotions aside in order to tackle practical tasks. This period will present a powerful mating phase, but those already mated may find trouble with supposedly secret affairs coming out into the limelight.

Favourable Dates: November 4, 7, 13, 16, 22, 25 Favourable Colours: White & Green

Pisces (19 February – 20 March) Social and learning opportunities are emerging, but it’s important that you don’t go too far, and this is especially so for adding new projects or responsibilities to your life. There can be pleasing contact with a love interest and your communications tend to be respected. People may turn to you for advice, particularly for tricky matters. They can count on you for being there for them with helpful words and without judgment.

Favourable Dates: November 7, 9, 16, 18, 25, 27 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Blue

Aries (21 March – 19 April) It should turn out to be the prosperous period for you. You will receive many surprises, mostly pleasant. A steamy love affair is in the wind for eligible Aries, something which is likely to see you getting a complete makeover in everything that you value in life. You will probably accomplish what you set out to do, but what you need is patience—and the determination to overcome the challenges.

Favourable Dates: November 1, 9, 10, 18, 27, 28 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue Taurus (20 April – 20 May) This marks a period in which you can attain what you have worked for, and when your seniority and personal power is at its peak. Your inherent tendency toward expansive gestures will be enhanced. You will be inclined to spend up on social events, luxuries and fripperies, mainly designed to improve your sex life. Some of you will be seeking to

improve your social standing, probably via a love connection.

Favourable Dates: November 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Grey

Gemini (21 May – 20 June) Overall, it is a fruitful period for you and the highest reward for correct actions will be your emergence as a more mature, productive individual with a definite idea of the directions your personal growth must take now. Obligations to your domestic world can be at odds with a restless desire to strike out and do your own thing. You may be tempted to exaggerate your social status, professional position, intellectual accomplishments, or monetary assets.

Favourable Dates: November 3, 8, 12, 17, 21, 26 Favourable Colours: White & Blue

Cancer (21 June – 22 July) This is an auspicious time for projects demanding endurance or tolerance. There can be stronger awareness of your responsibilities, or new responsibilities fall into your laps. You have a masterful grasp of organisation, so be sure to keep all your schedules together and properly annotated.

Expect partnership and marital relations to be rather prickly. Others will stand in your way if you try to get to the bottom of things.

Favourable Dates: November 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26 Favourable Colours: Purple & Yellow Leo (23 July – 22 August) This is a time for trying new things and beginning new ventures. Creativity finds a successful channel or outlet.

Beautiful energy is with you for getting the courage to express yourself more freely, romantic attractions, exciting new hobbies or channels of entertainment, and creative freedom. A spirit of openness helps to bring new opportunities into your life. Health might also improve and you could become more mobile and active.

Favourable Dates: November 1, 4, 10, 13, 19, 22 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow Virgo (23 August – 22 September) You feel especially liberated during this period, and events happening around now can set the ball in motion. There may be eye-opening psychological discoveries that help you to liberate yourself from difficulties of the past or from attitudes that have been holding you back from fully enjoying your life. It’s also a time to express emotions gracefully, diplomatically, and considerately. There could be a stronger focus on a relationship, partner, or potential partner.

Favourable Dates: November 3, 8, 12, 17, 21, 26 Favourable Colours: Blue & Yellow

Libra (23 September – 22 October) This is a time to re-evaluate matters, not to give something up. Your career income should increase, but due to the plethora of retro phases, issues from the past and connected with hidden or concealed concerns will make themselves felt. Aim to keep your centre and seek out activities that keep your mind busy. You can learn from the experience, if only to get even closer to your long-standing beliefs.

Favourable Dates: November 5, 6, 14, 15, 23, 24 Favourable Colours: Blue & Red

manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

nov2019.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 29/10/2019 21:04 Page 64

Weekend Starts Here....

Crazy for Loving You by Pippa Grant

Is there anything hotter than a growly, overprotective Marine cradling a baby? My melted ovaries don’t think so.

When you work hard and have the bank account to prove it, you’re entitled to play hard. I’ve seen some crazy things. I’ve caused some crazy scenes. And there’s no shame in my game.

But I’m still knocked off my stilettos when an insane chain of events leads to me inheriting a baby. The craziest part? The baby comes with a by-the-books, no-nonsense retired Marine who's so regimented that I wouldn't be surprised if he irons his boxer shorts.

Parenting? Bring it on. I don’t need sleep—I once started my day with business meetings in Cairo and ended it three days later at a club in Melbourne. Changing diapers? Please. It can't be any more challenging than changing out of Spanx on the back of a moving motorcycle. Training the little guy to run the family’s real estate empire? He’ll be all our bosses by the time he’s four.

But living with my new co-guardian? The gruff, muscled, tattooed former military man who manages to check all my boxes while trying to sneak under my skin?

He needs to go.

Because the longer he stays, the more layers he’s peeling off my heart.

But love isn’t something that’s ever diluted my gene pool, and I like my life just fine without it. I have awesome friends, this adorable baby and an obscene amount of money. Who needs love?

Turns out…maybe me.

The Good Liar Career con artist Roy Courtnay can hardly believe his luck when he meets well-to-do widow Betty McLeish online. As Betty opens her home and life to him, Roy is surprised to find himself caring about her, turning what should be a cut-and-dry swindle into the most treacherous tightrope walk of his life.

Release Date: 15th November

Catherine The Great Epic and romantic drama about the power, politics, and passions of the legendary monarch.

Oscar winner Dame Helen Mirren (The Queen) stars as one of the greatest rulers in history, the legendary mother of the Russian Empire, Catherine The Great, a lavishly realised limited series with incredible creative credentials.

Release Date: 25th November

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From the modern to the Bohemian, the rustic barn to the vintage glamour this show offers finishing touches that will create the WOW factor to your wedding day.

They'll be live entertainment, food, drink, and fashion shows to keep you entertained during the day. Whether you are planning a wedding in a barn, woodland, tipi, marquee or another unique or quirky venue we will have suppliers who will help your vision become a reality.

jane@af initymag.co.uk

07507 602401

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