the birthday issue by BEACH TOMATO

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ow, can you believe it has been a whole year since Beach Tomato hit your screens. Time flies when life’s a beach.

As you can see from our beach by numbers feature, it has been quite a year – we’ve visited 187 beaches (don’t worry, we shall be bumping up those figures in time for our 2nd birthday), published 1,324 beach inspired features, sold 359 bikinis and tested 120 beauty treatments – we have been busy beachies. However, these numbers aside, I really want to thank all of our dedicated beach lovers and followers. Your feedback to the site and the content has been overwhelming and, well, without you reading it, we would just be talking about beaches for our own enjoyment. We do hope that you enjoy reading Beach Tomato as much as we enjoy producing it.

www.beachtomato.com No 40-42, 1st Floor, Scrutton St, London EC2A 4PP 020 7426 4940 editor: KIRSTY HATHAWAY (kirsty.hathaway@beachtomato.com) features editor: JULIA NEEL (julia.neel@beachtomato.com) fashion editor: KATIE YIANNAKIS (katie.yiannakis@beachtomato.com)

As this is a very special issue, you can expect very special features. Starting off the week is an incredible feature on our undiscovered beaches for 2012. The must visit countries with their undiscovered beaches and the best beach abodes to rest your weary head. We’ve compiled an A-Z dedicated to the best of the beach – J is for judging. Enough said. On the topic of judging, it seems like we aren’t the only beach enthusiasts; we share our passion with the celebrated and talented (and sometimes the less talented). So, check out the roundup of the best beach celebrity moments over the last year. Expect a dash of body envy. Well, Happy Birthday to us. You shall find us in a local pub drinking pina colada’s pretending that we are celebrating on a beach. Here’s to the next year and many exciting things in store for Beach Tomato. We hope you enjoy the ride with us.

features writer/ content executive: HOLLY RAINS (holly.rains@beachtomato.com) marketing executive: ROSIE AXFORD (rosie.axford@beachtomato.com) art editor: ZUKI TURNER (zuki.turner@beachtomato.com) head of partnerships & commercials: LAURA GRAYLEY (laura.grayley@beachtomato.com) partnerships &commercials account manager: ELIZABETH

Lots of love,

ELLIS (elizabeth.ellis@beachtomato.com) content executive: KATIE MANNING (katie.manning@beachtomato.com)

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THE BEACH ALPHABET

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IT’S NOT ABOUT THE DESTINATION. IT’S ABOUT THE JOURNEY.

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words:ROXANNE GOLDING

As it is our birthday, we have been hit with more than just a little nostalgia, looking back at all the beautiful places we have been, and those we are yet to discover. With solar wonders, music festivals, natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own light displays, Mayan celebrations and the Olympics all set for this year; here at Beach Tomato weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve decided to let you in on a few little secrets. After much deliberation, we give to you, our Best Undiscovered Beaches of 2012.

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AUSTRALIA

With astronomers naming North Queensland as one of the THE HOTEL: ANCHOR BAY, LIZARD ISLAND

best places to view the solar eclipse later on this November, The most northern resort on the Great Barrier Reef, Anchor it gives but another reason to head down under.

Bay is the ultimate island retreat. Enjoy private picnics in secluded bays, head to legendary dive spot Cod Bay, or

THE BEACH: SUNSET BEACH, LIZARD ISLAND

simply enjoy your private deck bestowed with elegant day

In amongst the Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island is utterly beds to lounge the day away. unspoilt. Being a National Park, you can experience the tranquillity of the 24 white sandy shores, explore the THE BEST TIME: NOVEMBER 13-14 extensive flora and fauna or delve into the underwater The moon will be passing in between Earth and the Sun in world that waits before you.

a complete eclipse over these dates.

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SRI LANKA

Floating off the southern coast of India and gifted with creamy THE HOTEL: TAPROBANE ISLAND

beaches and dream-like waters, take the opportunity to The only property nestled within the dense vegetation and discover this islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s treasures, from the amiable elephants tropical flowers of the island comes in the luxurious form of to the Big Buddha.

a 1920sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; neo-Palladian mansion house. Sleeping up to ten people this could be a whimsical getaway for you and your

THE BEACH: WELIGAMA BAY BEACH

friends, or a romantic break with that special someone.

This golden stretch looks over the unique 2.5 acre mushroom of land that is Taprobane Island. Relax on the fine sands, THE BEST TIME: JULY-AUGUST snorkel and observe the native stilt-fishermen before Throughout these months the breathtaking beaches of the jumping atop a friendly Indian elephant who will transport southern coastal town of Hikkaduwa are taken over by DJs you to your private oasis.

and musicians for the Hikka festival - the perfect break from all that serenity.

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ICELAND

You’d be forgiven for thinking that Iceland is more of a exhilarating dash from sea to tub, tub to sea. winter wonderland than a scorching summer destination, but its dramatic vistas will no doubt change your view. Just THE HOTEL: 101 HOTEL a short flight from Europe and the East Coast of the US, this Snug in the heart of Reykjavik, this super-chic boutique uniquely cultured country is crammed with a plethora of bolt hole boasts open plan rooms, walk-in showers and both black and white sandy beaches.

heated oak floors. Owned by Icelandic designer, Ingibjorg S. Palmadottir you’re guaranteed the archetype of Nordic

THE BEACH: NAUTHOLSVIK BEACH

coolness.

Only a ten minute drive from bustling Reykjavik, volcanic basaltic cliffs surround golden sands which stretch towards THE BEST TIME: SEPTEMBER 2012-APRIL 2013 an unusually warm Atlantic Ocean. Using geothermic The Northern Lights promise to be at their brightest this technology, parts of the sea have been heated to create year, so kill two birds with one stone and get both beauty ‘hot spots’, these, along with two luxurious hot tubs which and borealis between these months. line the shore beg for you to brave that bikini and enjoy the

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COLOMBIA

In the northwest corner of exotic South America lies THE HOTEL: PLAYA SCONDIDA BEACH HOTEL colourful Colombia, bursting with dazzling shores, lush, Between the mangroves, cradled by the abundant flora green jungle and an effervescent nightlife.

and fauna lays 2 eco-friendly bungalows complete with hammocks. With rooms designed to incite unique

THE BEACH: PLAYA BLANCA

experiences via the use of colour, texture and natural spaces,

Head to this charming stretch of white sands (â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;tis called you are thoroughly at one with nature, whilst remaining in white beach after all) on BarĂş Island for a little rustic respite. complete comfort. Turquoise waters, super-soft sand and waving palm trees greet you ashore this Bucket List worthy isle. Get back to THE BEST TIME: NOVEMBER-MARCH basics by dining at one of the make shift restaurants along To avoid the downpours and receive the best rays. the beach offering fresh catches including lobster, crab and octopus then retire to a hammock for a night under the stars.

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BELIZE

Huddled on the Central American coast next to Mexico and the Western Caribbean and just off the coast of Belize, is this Guatemala is the picturesque, unspoilt and exciting Belize. truly spectacular and private vacation retreat. The seven villas pepper the island, so there’s little chance of bumping THE BEACH: HALF MOON CAYE

into another holiday-maker. If you thought it couldn’t

This utopian paradise is a must-visit for anyone scuba get any more blissful, all of your dining needs are taken inclined (actually for anyone, end of). Named as one of the top care of by award winning chefs who prepare a new menu five dive spots on the planet with turquoise waters lapping everyday catering for your every culinary whim (based on a ivory sands, what more could you ask for? Oh, there’s also questionnaire you fill out before you even arrive). a crumbling, 1930s’ red and white lighthouse at one end of the beach, for those explorers out there.

THE BEST TIME: MARCH 20TH OR JUNE 21ST To make your trip even more enchanting, visit in March for

THE HOTEL: CAYO ESPANTO ISLAND RESORT,

Mayan magic a la the vernal equinox or on June 21st for

CAYO ESPANTO

summer solstice.

Located three miles from San Pedro in the calm waters of

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THE MALDIVES

Floating in the midst of the Indian Ocean lays a colony of THE HOTEL: NIYAMA

26 heavenly islands, forming a real world Shangri-La, their Set amidst the tropical gardens and swaying palms of name? The Maldives.

one of the Indian Ocean’s tiniest tropical trinkets, the new Niyama resort boasts the world’s first underwater club and

THE BEACH: NIYAMA

a curious floating restaurant that serves only the freshest

You could pick any of these stunning islands, but the resort of the ocean’s delights. Indulge in one of the many spa at Niyama is a little bit special. Shallow lagoon waters house treatments available, or blow your mind with a fantastical the most vibrant of tropical fish that blend effortlessly into scuba trip, or indeed, do both. ashen sands. Snorkel, sunbathe or stroll; simply drink in your stunning surroundings.

THE BEST TIME: APRIL-NOVEMBER To avoid the rain, April through to November is your best bet.

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ZANZIBAR

Just off of East Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coast resides the Swahili-influenced THE HOTEL: GOLD ZANZIBAR

tropical island of Zanzibar. Filled with powdery white Opening in April, Gold Zanzibar is a utopian retreat emanating beaches, exotic coconut palms and surrounded by azul both luxury and elegance. Set in luscious tropical gardens waters, the beat of this isle is a far cry from life on the with incredible sea views; you can reach ultimate relaxation mainland.

with a spa treatment courtesy of one of the eight Balinesetrained beauty experts.

THE BEACH: KENDWA For an ivory shore that is met by a crystalline sea, this is THE BEST TIME: JUNE-NOVEMBER the epitome of island bliss. Enjoy the African sunset sipping With hot temperatures throughout the year, avoid the rain cocktails on the beach, fancy a dip? You can indulge at any and enjoy the odd cooling sea breeze throughout these time; this northwestern part of the island is not affected by months. the tides.

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BORNEO

The third largest island in the world, pristine white sands THE HOTEL: GAYA ISLAND RESORT frame this land, which is encircled by colourful coral reefs Just a James Bond-esque speedboat ride away from and home to more flora and fauna than you can shake a Borneoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital and onto the soft sandy shores of Pulau bamboo stick at. Playing host to many an endangered Gaya (one of the Tunku Abdul Rahnan Marine Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most species, from the pygmy elephant (can we please have stunning islands) lays the Gaya Island Resort. Stay in one one?) to the old man of the forest, the orangutan.

of the idyllic seafront villas to while away the hours on your own personal verandah whilst drinking in the breathtaking

THE BEACH: POLICE BEACH

views of Mount Kinabalu.

Crystal clear waters allow for excellent diving and snorkeling whilst the wonderfully secluded, beautiful white sands THE BEST TIME: JULY provide an excellent spot for relaxation afterwards.

This luxurious resort opens in July, be one of the first to experience this paradise.

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BRITAIN

With the Olympic and Paralympic Games ever nearing, and desire and more. the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee to boot, 2012 is set to be the

year of Britain, so untangle that bunting people! Whether THE HOTEL: DUNLUCE HOUSE it’s a brisk stroll or sandcastle worthy shores you’re after, This lovingly refurbished 4 storey Georgian house boasts look no further than good ol’ Blighty.

wonderful character and stunning sea views. Overlooking the sleepy town of Dawlish, you are welcomed to Devon with

THE BEACH: CORYTON COVE, DEVON

Afternoon Tea which is served on arrival.

Formerly known as Gentleman’s Cove (how distinguished) this secluded Dawlish beach is a little oasis. With rock pools THE BEST TIME: JUNE-AUGUST to explore, red sand on which to laze, dolphins to spot, For the best of that unpredictable British sun visit throughout bright beach huts and secret beaches only accessible from the summer, but this part of the country is beautiful all year the sea, Coryton Cove has everything you could possibly round.

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PANAMA

Undisturbed by the hordes of tourists and backpackers that Opening this October, this 16-room boutique resort offers flock to Central America, this southernmost country is an a Central American adventure whilst providing the best in unuttered secret.

chilled beach culture. Just off of Panama’s Pacific coast, this secluded isle will leave you spoilt for choice as 12 stunning

THE BEACH: PLAYA PERDIDA

beaches fringe its shores. Opt for sheer luxe with a villa

Situated on Isla Palenque and also known as “The Lost suite or a natural haven in the shape of a tented jungle Beach” (as if that didn’t create enough allure) this hidden lodge. delight can only be reached by a little rock climbing, but the whitest of white sands are worth that extra effort and sweat. THE BEST TIME: OCTOBER-APRIL This crescent-shaped treasure enjoys warm temperatures THE HOTEL: THE RESORT AT ISLA PALENQUE, ISLA all year round, but for the driest experience, visit between PALENQUE

October and April.

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CAMBODIA Bordered by Vietnam, Laos and Thailand, the Kingdom of THE HOTEL: SONG SAA PRIVATE ISLAND Cambodia hasn’t gone without its fair share of strife, but Having only recently opened in March, Cambodia’s first with a bright and beautiful future ahead, become a part of luxury island resort which devours both pretty islands that optimism and experience its bewitching atmosphere.

offers 27 villas set in flourishing rainforest against vanilla sands.

THE BEACH: SONG SAA Lying in Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago are two beautiful THE BEST TIME: NOVEMBER-APRIL islands endearingly named Song Saa, Khmer for ‘The For the most pleasurable stay and to avoid the rain. Sweethearts’. Connected by a footbridge, these two islands boast an untouched coastline, pick any of the pure white sandy beaches for an escape into serenity.

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A R A O C A JERICO BEACH, L I Z A R B , A CEAR

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BEACH OF THE WEEK 1

words:JENNIFER NEEDHAM

BEACH: JERICOACOARA BEACH WHERE: JERICOACOARA, CEARA, BRAZIL WHY: Not many travellers make it all the way up to “Jeri” beach, which is why it’s one of Brazil’s best kept beach secrets, but here you’ll discover a relatively untrodden, beautiful paradise – nestled right next to the National Park’s gorgeous sand dunes.

up, laidback vibe to complement its surroundings. Or, rent Beach House Prea for your own pad, right on the beach. WHEN: With a rainy season that runs from February until June, for the best experience we suggest visiting this utopia from July onwards.

HOW: Your best bet is to hop on Empress Fretacar, a public bus service that takes you straight there from the state capital of Fortaleza – which is 300km away. H2O TONE: Peacock feather blue. SAND TONE: Baked vanilla cheesecake. STAY: Vila Bela Vista, which was set up by a woman from Oregon who arrived in Jeri after a 2-year motorcycle trip around South America (cool story, huh?), this eco-friendly hotel has a straight-

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HIKKADUWA BEACH SRI LANKA

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BEACH OF THE WEEK 2 words:JENNIFER NEEDHAM photography: ZUKI TURNER

BEACH: HIKKADUWA BEACH WHERE: HIKKADUWA, SRI LANKA WHY: Tropical fish and colourful coral are high on the priority list for many a tourist here – but we at Beach Tomato HQ love that it’s also a great beach for catching a wave or two. There’s also an awesome music festival called Hikkafest held on the beach every July/August – cool DJ’s + great surf? Sign us up!

all tastes. Our advice? Stay in the 150-year-old “jungle-side” annex. It’s wild. WHEN: It can get pretty rainy from May – October, but that won’t affect the heat.

HOW: Hikkaduwa beach lies 3.5 hours southwest of the capital, Columbo. Simply hop on a public bus – they’re frequent, very cheap, but busy – so be prepared to stand! H2O TONE: Mint julep SAND TONE: Almond macaroon STAY: Created by surfers, artists and chefs for their family and friends (so the website states), Sunbeach Hotel offers accommodation to suit

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BEACH HOUSE

words: HUGO DAVIDSON

THE

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NORTHCOTT BEACH HOUSE CORNWALL UK WHERE: Nestled good and proper off the beaten track just outside Bude in North Cornwall, Northcott Beach House is a Cornish beach retreat at its best. Set upon a cliff overlooking the rugged shores and windswept beach of Northcott Mouth, you get breath-taking, uninterrupted views as far as the eye can take you. WHAT: This sole house sleeping 18 people gives the isolation and indulgence into what Cornish nature has to offer. Decorated to kitsch perfection, Northcott House transports you somewhere that can only be described as a happy place. With space a plenty, even 18 people doesn’t feel too cramped, making it idyllic for large families or groups of friends. Come a sunny day, the front garden overlooks the beach, perfect for anything from ball games, picnics or simply just relaxing taking in the surrounds. WHY: The house is indicative of exactly what you wish of a seaside house; lashings of kitsch beach charm in the form of crisp blue and white décor, rustic wooden floors, brightly lit rooms and panoramic views, this is the perfect place to escape with a group of your nearest and dearest and, if we could, this is where Beach Tomato would escape celebrate our beach birthday (and also where our Editor spent her 30th last year – see, it really is all about birthdays this week). As cliché as it sounds, there is something for everybody. Be it the surf you are after, a hangover curing dip, long brisk beach walks, gorge walking, deep sea fishing or simply chill out in the house with a good book (read: glass of wine), you can have it all here. What’s more, it’s in good old Blighty.

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CELEBRITY BEACH MOMENTS OF THE YEAR

It seems we’re not the only ones who like to escape to the beach at any available opportunity, over the last year, the likes of Katy Perry, Gisele Bündchen, Rosie HuntingtonWhiteley have all donned bikinis and headed to the shore to provide us with Beach Tomato’s Celebrity Beach Moments of the Year.

words:JULIA NEEL

KATE MOSS IN ST TROPEZ: After her Cotswolds wedding to Jamie Hince in July, Mossy headed to the South of France for some post-wedding fun in the sun. Which in Moss-speak translates to jumping topless from superyachts. Later that day, she pushed a boy off a jetty. Hilarious.

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RIHANNA IN SYDNEY: Riri asked the We Are Handsome team to make her a bespoke swimsuit featuring her idol, Bob Marley, for her trip to Sydney. They obliged, naturally.

ALESSANDRA AMBROSIO IN HAWAII:

GISELE IN JAMAICA:

In October, the Victoria’s Secret model went on a surfing Our jaws dropped in abject jealousy when Gisele Bündchen trip to Hawaii. The last time we saw fluoro face zinc (that’s

– wearing a snake-print bikini - hit the beach in Jamaica

what that is, people), was in 1987 on Australian children. with her son, Benjamin for some November sun. And Shane Warne. But Alessandra makes us seriously want to revisit the look.

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HELENA CHRISTENSEN IN ISCHIA:

CANDICE SWANEPOEL IN ST BARTS:

The island of Ischia flared brightly on our radar when Rarely do bikini shots bring us to the fiercely oscillating 40-year-old supermodel Helena Christensen was snapped emotional extremes that these, of South African Victoria’s there in a sweet floral bikini during the Ischia Global

Secret model Candice Swanepoel in St Barts, did. One

Festival. Where is it? Just off the coast of Naples. Karolina minute we were close to vomiting with envy, the next, we Kurkova was there too and if it’s good enough for them…

FLORENCE WELCH IN RIO: High waist at high tide = high fashion. Flo’s vintage bikini = beachside #winning.

had nothing but respect (and a huge girl crush) on her.

ROSIE HUNTINGTON-WHITELEY IN MIAMI: While most people may remember RHW and boyf Jason Statham’s New Year’s Eve break as “the one where she grabbed his willy in public”, we remember it for Rosie’s ace beach-side styling: a Wildfox Tee paired with a Zimmermann bikini.

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GWEN STEFANI IN MALIBU:

BAR REFAELI IN CANNES:

Right on the edge: sans Harajuku girls, but with family, What was Leo DiCaprio thinking? During the Cannes Film Gwen strolled down Malibu in a maxi skirt and black bikini. Festival, when Leo was pictured getting’ friendly with Blake She’s our new styling icon; no doubt (sorry)

GWYNETH PALTROW IN BARBADOS: She does 45 minutes of dance cardio, followed by muscular structure work, six times a week, with Tracey Anderson. And, in her Violet Lake bikini, it shows.

Lively, Bar made sure he knew what he was missing…

KATY PERRY IN HAWAII: While her ex spent Christmas in a Cornish pub, Katy Perry was sunning herself like a smug lizard in Hawaii with friends. Yeah, this is how we deal with our break-ups too; no biggie.

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e’re not saying that

HOW TO LOOK GOOD

NAKED

we are die hard nudists

here

Beach Tomato, but given

that

we’re

turning the ripe old age of 1, we thought that we would try and perfect our old birthday suit (Beach Tomato is one after all, not us). There’s no doubt we all share a love/hate relationship with this garment; certain stubborn creases, exposed seams and offensive fraying leaving us condemned to beach fear. Be it orange peel cellulite, rambling green veins or unwanted patches of hair, a little pampering and a whole lot of preening will ensure sans clothes you will still be dressed to impress.

THE BIRTHDAY ISSUE fade any marks in just two to eight weeks. For those after something a little more drastic, Pulsed Dye laser therapy, from £170 can be used to fade newer red or HANG-UP: STRETCH MARKS Completely unavoidable and absolutely impossible to get rid of. Or so you thought. With products available by the dozen you can bid a happy farewell to these little blighters. Formulated by five plastic surgeons, Heal Gel’s

purple stretch marks with great results achieved after just six treatments. Those older, silvery marks can be treated with microdermabrasion, £110, again with six treatments resulting in ultimate fading, both remedies available at sk:n on London’s Harley Street.

Heal Gel, £33.50 is sure to fade them the way that only cosmetic surgeons know how. Alternatively, Udderly Gorgeous Stretch Mark Oil by Cowshed, £18 will leave skin supple and restored and SD Intensive Concentrate for Stretch Marks and Wrinkles by Strivectin, £115 will

filled grapes (we’re not sure if a bottle of vino counts, unfortunately). If you are already plagued with these creeping numbers, Vitamin K Serum by Ling Skin Care, HANG-UP: VEINS Thread and varicose veins can leave you donning the tights in 40 degree heats (in case you didn’t know, tights + bikini = not a good look). Triggers are thought to be obesity, excess alcohol consumption, pregnancy and too

£75 prevents capillary fragility, or hide them from public view with Double Wear Maximum Cover by Estée Lauder, £26.50. If professional treatment is needed, both sclerotherapy and laser removal methods are available from The Harley Medical Group Clinics.

much exposure to the sun (the Beach Tomato team wait in horror). Stop it before it starts by wearing ever-so sexy compression stockings, elevating your legs when possible (putting your feet up) and eating antioxidant

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Firming Face Mask by Champneys, £12.50 for lifted, luminous skin, and finally apply Lightening Cream by NARS COSMETICS, £73.50 to retexturise and moisturise. HANG-UP: UNEVEN SKIN TONE Uneven skin tone can be the result of, once again, excess sun exposure (boo). There are simple ways to avoid a life of inequality; first and foremost, use sunscreen,

For more intensive (but no more painful) treatments, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and lasers will give you noticeable changes. Skin Oasis does a Microderm & Peel, £113 and Laser Rejuvenation, £185.

drink plenty of water and exfoliate regularly (we know, yawn). If it’s a little beyond something water can fix, Age Defying Dermabrasion by Darphin, £50 is gentle enough for sensitive skin, yet still tackles dead skin cells and oily skin build-up, follow with Spa Skin Plus Collagen

with lemongrass, juniper and rosemary extracts. Nab yourself a Vibrating Exercise Plate by Reviber, £169.99 as powerplates are tried and tested to tone up your whole HANG-UP: UNTONED BODY If, like many, you’ve fallen out with Gym (or in fact you’ve never met him) a helping hand in the toning stakes may be what is necessary before you prepare to bare. Well, luckily signing on the dotted line to a yearlong gym contract isn’t your only answer – just cheat it. Indulge in a Trim and Tone Body Wrap, £90 at The Sanctuary Spa in Richmond to lose a few instant inches. For an everyday at-home aid, Contouring Concentrate, £25.50 by Caudalíe will break down fatty deposits and refine your silhouette

body with a mere 30 minutes a day. Team with EasyTone Pride Shoes by Reebok, £75 with moving air technology and balance ball inspired pods, and that Gisele body you desire will be yours in no time.* *Sadly, this is not a guarantee.

THE BIRTHDAY ISSUE over time. Apart from the standard waxing, shaving and removal creams, both electrolysis and lasers can be used to remove hair on a more permanent level, visit sk:n on HANG-UP: HAIR REMOVAL The bane of most women’s lives – unless you’re channelling the Seventies – is unwanted body hair. Luckily for us, there are ways in which you can slow it down, make the hair finer or even get rid of it completely. First off, eat more soy based products as they contain estrogen which will

London’s Harley Street for affective laser hair removal. For an at home remedy try this handy 8800 Thermal Hair Removal System by no!no!, £193.50 which uses Thermicon technology to painlessly remove unwanted hair. It even has adjustable treatment levels for those more, sensitive areas.

counteract the hair growth inducing testosterone in your body. Secondly, Hair Today Gone Tomorrow by Laidbare, £6.99 a body lotion containing liquorice, caffeine and horse chestnut seed extracts will minimise hair growth

System by Bliss, £25 for the ultimate skin regimen. With salicylic acid, probiotics and meadowsweet extract, the cleanser & toner, correcting serum and moisturiser will HANG-UP: BACKNE We are all guilty of obsessing over the smallest of small pimples if we are unfortunate enough to get one, but Acne Vulgaris of the back (i.e. Backne) can leave us swathed in some sort of ‘burkini’ a la Nigella Lawson. Usually arising

repair acne blemishes and even defend against future flare-ups. For that blemish busting boost, Bliss also offers a Chestcial/Backcial, £112.40 (chest/back facial) at their spa at Sloane Avenue London, which will leave you daring to don that backless number, hurrah.

during puberty, acne is caused by clogged pores, but if you haven’t managed to simply ‘grow out’ of it, there is help at hand. Start off with Blemish Control Clarifying Body Wash by Murad, £35 to exfoliate, kill bacteria and heal, then follow up with the No Zit Sherlock Complete Clarifying

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THE BEST OF

THE YEAR..

We made it a whole year and what a year it has been, with 1,324 features written, we have certainly been busy little beach lovers. Faced with the task of choosing one favourite feature from the past year was no mean feat, but team beach rose to the challenge (weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re troopers), trolled through the archives to find the features that sum up our first year of beachy existence. Happy Birthday us.

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COOKERY COURSES AT THE BEACH

TANNING VIRGIN BY HOLLY RAINS

KIRSTY HATHAWAY, EDITOR

ZUKI TURNER, ART EDITOR

Obsessed with food, moi? Yes, I’m slightly embarrassed

At Beach we are 100% fans of tan. All of us apart from

to say that when faced with the incredibly daunting task

Holly, whose skin seems to almost repel the sun and

of choosing one (yes, one) favourite feature from the

constantly remains an almost white (but obviously still

beach archive (I was very late on this deadline – it took

beautiful) porcelain shade. I mostly like this feature as

me a whole week to decide), my shortlist were all foodie

I like seeing Holly firstly as an incarnation of Madonna

features (a close second was the fish and chip feature).

and secondly, looking kind of spanishy / russian (if

Team food with the beach and I’m a goner. So, cookery

there is such a thing) after her spray tan sesh. And as

courses on the beach had me gripped, I have planned

if those bizarre sights aren’t enough, the brilliant way

all my holidays around this feature now. What is not to

the feature is written never fails to make me smile. A

like when it comes to fresh seafood (that you cooked

definite must-read.

and even caught yourself) and eating it on the beach.

FAVOURITE BEACHES FOR…2012 JULIA NEEL, FEATURES EDITOR With the belief that it’s good to have high aspirations, my favourite feature was in our 2012 issue – the mustvisit beaches of 2012. I aim to have visited them all by the time Beach Tomato turns two.

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THE GLASS MENAGERIE

HOLIDAYS BY YOUR STAR SIGN

HOLLY RAINS, FEATURES AND COMMERCIAL WRITER

KATIE YIANNAKIS, FASHION AND BEAUTY EDITOR

I have long had an obsession with small things,

I have to be one of the worst decision makers on the

especially tiny animals, so this shoot obviously gets my

planet, give me options and I’m ruined. So trying to pick

vote – small porcelain animals overflowing with shiny

my favourite feature from 1,300+ that we have worked

jewellery. I can’t express enough how much I love that

on this year is like trying to choose my favourite pair

each piece of jewellery fits the animal wearer so well,

of shoes (or favourite child for those with less of an

like the swans whose ring headwear makes them look

attachment to their footwear) – VERY difficult. Then I

medieval and the calf sporting bow earrings that looks

remembered ‘Holidays by your Star Sign’ by the ever

like The Laughing Cow. If cream cheese featured this

so spiritual and mystic Holly Rains – she said Scorpios

would be my all time feature EVER.

should go to Oman and I listened. Taking the hassle out of my destination deciding dilemmas and as such getting my vote for best feature.

FIVE WAYS TO WEAR A SCARF BY ATHENA PROCOPIOU ROSIE AXFORD, SENIOR MARKETING & PR EXECUTIVE Once I’ve arrived at the beach the last thing I want to do is leave, which is why I adore Athena’s Five Ways to Wear a Scarf feature, which shows how the scarf/ sarong is the ultimate beach accessory multi-tasker. From dress to top to turban, this feature tutors for an effortlessly chic beach to bar transition, exactly how it should be.

THE BIRTHDAY ISSUE

BEST OF AFRICAN LITERATURE

BEST BEACHES TO TIE THE KNOT ON

KATIE MANNING, FEATURES AND COMMERCIAL WRITER

ELIZABETH ELLIS, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

I’ll admit it; I’m a bit of a closet geek and deciding

Not that I’m planning or anything - but I really do love

which books to take away with me (real ones not the

reading the roundup of best beaches from last year’s

sand allergic kindle kind) is always at the very top of my

Wedding issue. The idea of exotic Madagascan beach

packing list. Given my perhaps slightly unusual interest

nuptials sound incredible but also Cumberland Island’s

in African literature, this feature was a particular

wildly romantic backdrop looks like the perfect spot to

favourite of mine. Having bullied Elizabeth into writing

say ‘I do’. On the other hand if the hard-earned budget

it, I can safely say that my next holiday book bag is well

has already been blown on my dress then I would happily

and truly on track.

opt for friends and family getting together on Manorbier Beach along Pembrokeshire’s picturesque Welsh coast. All I need to know now is where in the world is the best beach for him to get down on one knee…

COLLAB FAB – 2012 DESIGNER COLLABORATIONS LAURA MORRISON, ASSISTANT BUYER Collab Fab pretty much set the structure of my 2012 diary. Half days duly booked off work, holidays rearranged - I was at the front of the Marni for H&M queue come March 8th.

THE BIRTHDAY ISSUE

words:HOLLY RAINS

longside our other noteworthy skills – find him standing front of the beach house in tiny trunks, to travel, fashion, nail art, eating – we like

give arriving guests the impression that everyone within is

to think of ourselves as something of an equally as attractive. We can assure you that under the soft authority when it comes to throwing a glow of the milky moon – and under the influence of a few party. So, in light of our Birthday Issue, we have put our years of research in this field to good use and

cranberry Woo Woo’s – everyone looks hot, if not slightly blurry.

come up with the Ultimate Beach Tomato Fantasy Beach Party. Below are the seven people that we simply couldn’t

THE BAND – THE SPICE GIRLS

have a party without. Of course, at the fantasy party, all We don’t want the girls now, we want them back in their 4,000 of our friends are there (and all of you, too), but we spicy hey-day when girl power ruled, Posh Spice was soft couldn’t write about everyone…

around the edges and Buffalo boots were cool. Once they have exhausted their extensive back catalogue, (Spice Up

THE EYE CANDY – DAVID GANDY

Your Life finale), we will allow Geri to play her early solo

Firstly Gandy rhymes with candy; secondly he seems to

stuff, mainly Mi Chico Latino because reciting the Spanish

appear at the opening of every party ever so we may as well

bits allowed us to believe we were bi-lingual for a few

work with this fact and put his fine form to good use. You’ll weeks.

THE BIRTHDAY ISSUE CATERING – HUGH FEARNLEY-WHITTINGSTALL/

post-watershed fun. So he’ll be manning the Twister

RONALD MCDONALD

mat, helping young and old contort into various positions,

Where Michelin food meets McDonalds. Who else would whilst also manning the face-painting tent. Russell, if we want taking charge of lining our stomachs and feeding you’re reading this: we’ve seen your handiwork with kohl, the party masses than Hugh on the BBQ? We’re thinking

so we expect more than penis drawings painted in UV on

hog roasts, an expansive buffet table and – the pièce de our faces. resistance – his bird within a bird within a bird. Ronald McDonald will also make a special appearance, due to

THE DJ – STEPHEN FRY

the fact that ever since a chance sleepover in ‘96 led us to

Fry is a mandatory addition to all of our fantasy lists. He

watch Richie Rich, we have always dreamed of having our

is our ultimate dream DJ because he probably won’t have

own McDonalds. Praise be fantasy beach parties.

a clue how to DJ (that means Disc Jockey, Stephen), but we aren’t cool enough to know the difference anyway.

THE FASHION & HAIR GURU - CARRIE BRADSHAW

Besides, everything’s on iPod anyway, so being adept at

Every party needs some fancy dressing. What? You don’t mixing isn’t essential, nor is having any prior musical think any old bikini will do for our first birthday party

knowledge. But if the power cuts, which it may well do

do you? Step forward Carrie B, her aptitude for random

(even on fantasy island, electricity and the sea aren’t

layering and constant outfit changes will mean the fancy

always in harmony), he can regale us with his superhuman

dress party shack will have enough material to go round; knowledge and organise an impromptu QI session in place we’ve already bagsied the Sex and the City title-sequence

of the Macarena. Oh, and you know he’ll be down with

tutu. Though a creature more known for her life in the city playing requests. than on the sand, her naturally surf-wavy hair suggests she knows how to handle beach hair, so she will come COMEDY- JOHN CLEESE armed with a tote full of John Frieda’s Frizz-Ease serum

Born with an innate sense of humour, (his family name

ready to dispense amongst the crowd. Note: we are not

is officially Cheese, seriously) John Cheese will play the

inviting Sarah Jessica Parker, she doesn’t look like much

part of embarrassing older relative let loose, a role that is

fun and never went out with a Berger.

hugely amusing unless said person is actually a member of your family then it’s just really uncomfortable. If he’s not

HEAD OF ACTIVITIES-RUSSELL BRAND

throwing shapes or performing knee slides on the dance

Those of you with lusty tendencies may be pretty excited

floor, find him in a darkened corner touting hibiscus print

at the prospect of Russell as nominated activity chief shirts to fellow party-goers. We also find him strangely but, before your mind wanders down the X-rated route, attractive, weird or totally justifiable? remember this is our fantasy party – not some serial lothario’s. We love Russell and want him fun, but not

THE BIRTHDAY ISSUE

by: KATIE YIANNAKIS