Northern Woman July 2019 by Helen Wright

ALGRAM MODERN LIVING

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

Bridgewater House, 1-5 Railway Street, Ballymena T. 028 2564 0206

www.algram.co.u k Trustpilot

l'll'll'll'll'l

Editor’s Letter

i all, Welcome to our July issue. A highlight of my month was chatting to Gok Wan. He really is such an interesting guy with a genuine passion for fashion and helping women to feel more confident in their own skin. ‘Gok Wan’s One Size Fits All 2019 – The Style and Body Confidence Masterclass’ comes to Belfast in October, and it sounds like the perfect girls’ day out, see p.24-27 for details. This month’s fashion spread was shot in Hillmount House, Larne. The Georgian property and wedding venue provided the perfect setting for our summer dress shoot. Thanks to the team for welcoming us with coffee and croissants. Whether you are jetting off to the sunshine or are have your fingers crossed for warm weather here, see our round-up of this season’s hottest swimwear (p.8-9) and summer shorts (p.10-11). Also trending is crochet (p.13), gingham and coloured tartan (p.14). Kilkeel grandmother Maura Ward chats to NW before she heads off to Japan to climb Mount Fuji for her 70th birthday this month (p.42-43). And Donegal adventurer Nikki Bradley talks about her experience scaling four mountains on crutches (p. 50). Journalist Emma Deighan explores the impact of hoarding (p.4445). And to mark Cow Appreciation Day on 9th July, we showcase the work of three artists – one of whom has been painting cows for almost 20 years; Ballymena artist Paul Bell (p.32-34). In beauty news, journalist Claire Craig shares the very latest skincare and makeup launches (p.36), and Yon Ka therapist Catherine Azzariti asks: Is a spa day a treat or preventative medicine? (p.38). I was lucky enough to visit Farnham Estate’s spa this month and after than I agree with everything Catherine says in her article. We have another fantastic subscription offer running this month; get 11 issues of NW delivered to your home for only £15, and the

price includes a free gift worth £19.99; the Crystal Clear Rapid Self Tanning Clear Mousse from Bellamianta (p.39). In addition, we bring you readers’ weddings, local events, interior décor ideas, travel reviews, Blogger Corner, interviews and a lot more besides. Until next month,

Catriona Doherty Editor Northern Woman

Contact me at: c.doherty@independentmagazinesni.co.uk. Follow NW on Facebook: www.facebook.com/NorthernWomanMagazine, Instagram: @northernwomanmagazine, LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/northern-woman, and Twitter @NorthernWomanNW

CONTENTS JULY 2019

STYLE 07 LIFE’S A BEACH Swimwear trends to flatter you 10 THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT 12 HOOKED ON CROCHET On point needlework 15 BEST DRESSED Frocks to suit all tastes FEATURES 24 GOK WAN Talks feel-good fashion and bodyconfidence tricks 28 THE SMART MONEY IS ON INVESTMENTS 30 PRE HOLIDAY PREP Man vs Woman 32 UDDERLY GORGEOUS ART Three artists share their work BEAUTY 35 BRUSH STROKES Choosing the right wand 36 THE BEAUTY EDIT Makeup bag and skincare must-haves 38 A TREAT OR PREVENTATIVE MEDICINE? HEALTH AND WELLNESS 41 WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO 42 THE GERIATRIC TRAVELLER A local lady’s tales 44 BURIED WITHIN The impact of hoarding 46 CHANGE YOUR ATTITUDE CHANGE YOUR LIFE 47 FIVE MINUTES WITH Local chef Terry McIlroy 48 FROM FIELD TO FORK 50 AIMING HIGH A Donegal girl’s mountaineering adventures 51 PICNIC RECIPES

Cover image from Amoressa www.amoressa.com Credit: Gok Wan

Credit: Only

ESCAPE 55 THE LAND OF SMILES Exploring Thailand 57 SUMMER IN THE MAIDEN CITY 8 must-visits 58 A TO ZAKYNTHOS Can you find the real Greek islands on a package holiday? 60 REVIEW Farnham Estate Golf Resort & Spa 63 SUMMER RUNS LIVING 68 YOU’RE MY WONDER WALL Get creative with paint, paper and picture frames 72 A FAMILY HOME IN GALGORM 76 DOUBLE UP Designer doubles

IN EVERY ISSUE 61 LET’S DRINK TO… Ashford Castle 62 THE SOCIAL 10 Local events not to miss 65 MOVIE ROUNDUP 78 LOCAL WEDDINGS 82 THE ALBUM Social photos 92 NELSON KNOWS Travelling with kids 94 HERE & THERE 95 BLOGGER CORNER By Elizabeth Vuagniaux 96 NORTHERN MAN 48 hours in Valencia 98 WIN A stay at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo

Publisher Independent News & Media Ltd Belfast Telegraph House 33 Clarendon Road Clarendon Dock Belfast BT1 3GB T: 028 9026 4264 Production Manager: Irene Fitzsimmons Editor: Catriona Doherty Design: Robert Armstrong Art Editor: Helen Wright Editorial Contributors Claire Craig, Clare Bowie, Eunice Nelson, Elizabeth Vuagniaux, Jade Beecroft, James Oliver, Jeff Meredith, Lucy Norris, Paula Gracey, Rita Doherty, Sal Hanvey, Róisín Carabine and Victoria Evans Independent News & Media © 2019. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means; electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of Independent News & Media.

STYLE

Credit: Primark

Strap swimsuit from Only £32

LIFE’S A BEACH L I F E ’ S A B E AC H

Whether you’re jetting off to the topics or planning to sunbathe in your back garden, check out the swimwear trends that’ll flatter your beach bod this summer season BY LUCY NORRIS

Collection bikini bottoms from M&S £14

Micah print bikini top £21 and Micah bunny tie bikini bottoms £17 from Monsoon

J by Jasper Conran top £26 and bottoms £20 from Debenhams

Collection bikini top from M&S £19

Multicolour stripe swimsuit from Accessorize £35

Stripe up your life

Striped lace up plunge swimsuit from M&S £29.50

The ultimate optical illusion, stripes make everything seem longer and leaner without so much as a mention of the gym. Grab a bikini or one-piece with vertical stripes, and you will feel as if you’ve grown a few inches overnight. Striped suits are this season’s must-have, so get yourself a rainbow, pastel or two-toned number and hit the pool bar in style.

Stripped suit from Zara £9.99

Floral bikini £35 and swimsuit £35 from Accessorize

Granny chic Forget tropical florals, this season it’s all about the wilderness you’d find on wallpaper. The soft colours of mismatched floral patterns go beautifully with a glowing tan. Oversized blooms add an edge of timeless elegance to your beachwear collection. Wear your swimsuit splashing around in the sea, or as a bodysuit under a maxi skirt for dinner. Faith swimsuit from Debenhams £28 Botanical garden plunge swimsuit from Figleaves £40

High waisted bikini textured brief from Bonmarché £12

Juno luxe high apex plunge bikini top from Figleaves £22

Juno luxe high waist tummy control bikini brief from Figleaves £18

Daisy swimsuit from Tu Clothing at Sainsburys £16

Textured bandeau bikini top from Bonmarché £14

Frill strap tie front bikini top £20 and high wasit bikini brief £15 from V by Very

High-waisted hipsters Start your summer on a high by nabbing yourself, potentially the most flattering of all the styles out there; high-waisted bikini briefs. Tuck in your tummy with a pair of retro high bottoms, and pair them with a cute top to match. We’re loving styles with polka dots, frills and ribbons.

Conscious exclusive from H&M £34.99

Two piece from River Island £38

Kai textured crochet triangle bikini top from Monsoon £19 Kai textured crochet bikini pants from Monsoon £15

Frazzled fabrics Leave the iron at home and embrace creases in your suit, with a ribbed or ruffled number. Oh so flattering, alternative fabrics eliminate that strictly smooth look associated with swimwear, and skim over bumps and lumps. Play around with crochet and crepe-like materials in all shapes and sizes until you find what works for you. And the best part? You never have to worry about anything getting creased in your bag because, well, that’s the whole point!

Ribbed square neck swimsuit from Primark £12

Long sleeves Never fear, the long-sleeved suits are here to crush all your bingo-wing fears in one swoop. This summer is all about making big statements while showing less skin and we’re here for it. Embrace your inner surfer chic and don the wetsuit-esque pieces making waves this SS19. Whether you prefer a two-piece or would rather stick to one, Boden have got you, and your arms, covered.

Textured button front swimsuit from V by Very £30

White textured bikini top from Oasis £20

White textured bikini bottoms from Oasis £18

Valletta swimsuit from Boden £65

A hole in one Geometric cutouts are not as scary as they seem and are actually super flattering on most body types. If wearing a bikini is pushing you just over the edge of your comfort zone, start this summer with baby steps and go for it in a one-piece with some missing panels. Take it back in time with retro one-shoulder styles, or highlight your curves with a mismatch of material for the ultimate poolside power-suit. Play around with colours and patterns until you find your perfect match – we guarantee it won’t take long.

Fuchsia swimsuit from H&M £29.99

Pink patterned cutout swim suit from TK Maxx £16.99

Ring detail swimsuit from Primark £10

Polka swimsuit from Accessorize £30

Purple sequin one shoulder cut out swimsuit from New Look £29.99

Swimsuit from Zara £9.99

DIVA IN DENIM

Light wash longer length shorts from Oasis £28

Leave the Daisy Dukes behind and revamp your denim short selection this season by going for a longer length in the Bermuda style. A lot more flattering and comfortable to wear, this type of short adds a splash of sophistication to your summer wardrobe with effortless ease. Tuck in a white button down, with a pair of sandals for a casual look and ditch the flats for platforms as the sun goes down.

Collection blue denim shorts from M&S £19.50

Vero Moda denim shorts from M&CO £18

Blue denim shorts from Zara £29.99

The

LONG and SHORT of it Blue denim Melrose shorts from TK Maxx £29.99

Arm yourself with the ultimate versatility staple and follow our guide to nailing the perfect pair of shorts this summer season Michelle Keegan cycling shorts from LittlewoodsIreland £17.50

LUCY NORRIS Cycling shorts from Primark £5

BIKER CHIC

Love them or hate them, cycling shorts are no longer reserved for bike rides in the countryside. The Lycra phenomenon is taking over and you know what, we’re not complaining. This summer fall head over wheels for the comfortable yet totally stylish biker short. Pair them with an oversized tee and chunky trainers or dress them up under a white button down with a pair of killer heels. Black double piped side sports cycling shorts from New Look £12.99 Lime snake cycling shorts from F&F £8.50

PRECIOUS CARGO

Channel your inner Indiana Jones, make the ultimate summer statement and don a pair of cargo shorts. Play around with different shades of khaki, beige and white and mix up the style by opting for pockets galore or adding a utility belt. Whether you’re heading out for a day of exploring or hitting the waterfront for a slap up meal, this style of shorts will never let you down. Oh so flattering with their slightly longer length, you simply can’t go wrong.

Poplin cargo shorts in neutral from F&F £14 Lacy pocket front shorts from Monsoon £35

Khaki tailored shorts from Oasis £28

Stone high waist utility shorts from Glamorous £30

TAILORED TO PERFECTION

Just because your out of office mode is on doesn’t mean you have to ditch the power suit. Longer, tailored shorts in linen and classic structured materials are all the rage this summer. Wear them with a matching blazer or silk shirt and accessorize with some sleek shades for an ultra-chic look.

Stone belted shorts from Dorothy Perkins £22

Neon orange belted shorts from River Island £30

Katrina city shorts from Monsoon £35

PRINTS GALORE

Whether you like a bit of leopard or would rather wear the tropics, there’s a pair of long length shorts out there for you. This season it’s a free for all when it comes to prints, so don’t be scared to step out of your comfort zone and test the waters with an array of bold bottoms. Go wild with colours and mix and match with different fits Red Hawaiian until you find your perfect match. floral shorts from Yours £17.99

Neon animal print shorts from Miss Selfridge £25

Linen shorts from bonprix £24.99

Pink animal tie waist print shorts from New Look £19.99

Watercolour paisley high waisted shorts from Glamorous £25

Khari crochet handheld bag from Accessorize £27.50

Crochet sleeveless top from Only £15.99

Braden halter neck bikini from Protest £49.99

Jacala from Mango £17.99

Crochet lace bolero from Vero Moda £25

tifs, ered mo Embroid d bags and r e oversiz s are the orde rd t o e h o c c o l r a , as c neutr ave. ay in July of the d mer’s must-h ds m n u e is this s ile that transc n t e x e d mo r The t , adds a outfit. s n o s a se el to any boho fe

Hooked on crochet This season needlework is on point

Shrimps crochet t-shirt from Warehouse £56 Embroidered top from Vero Moda £20

Shrimps crochet flare trousers from Warehouse £59

Langur from Mango £49.99 Selma soft found crochet bag from Monsoon £40

White top from Stradivarius £19.99

Isla midi dress from Free People £118

Gold metallic crochet top £30 and gold crochet wide leg trousers £38 from River Island

Chiffon playsuit with crochet trim from H&M £24.99 Cora cotton crochet vest top from Monsoon £45

Cotton lace boho dress from The White Company £139

Crochet crown fedora hat from Accessorize £20 Fringed cotton crochet dress from Massimo Dutti £139

Crochet dress from Zara £25.99

Colourful crochet dress from Zara £69.99

Best Dressed From farmyard chic to ladylike polka print, hippyesque maxis and more, this month Northern Woman stylist Lesley Macaulay showcases summer dresses to suit all tastes Shot on location at Hillmount House

Dress £34 from Daisy & Duke, Magherafelt; basket £135 from James Lakeland, Lisburn Rd; boots £60 from Labels, Lisburn Rd; headband stylist’s own

Dress £330 from Rio Brazil, Victoria Square, Belfast; earrings and shoes stylist’s own

Dress ÂŁ84 and crossover bag ÂŁ80 from Sarah-Jane Boutique, Magherafelt

Dress and belt £200 from Labels, Lisburn Rd; shoes stylist’s own

Dress £59.99 and petticoat £39 from Daisy Mae Boutique, Coleraine; sunglasses £100 from Labels, Lisburn Rd; shoes and earrings stylist’s own

Dress £295 from The Snooty Fox, Dungannon; necklace and shoes stylist’s own

– PHOTOGRAPHY – Brendan Gallagher 079 0063 8365 brendangallagher.net – STYLIST – Lesley Macaulay 078 6680 9031 www.instagram.com/lesley.macaulay – HAIR – Cori McCann, Zuni Hair 028 9033 2345 www.zunihairdressing.com – MAKEUP – Louise Donnelly Makeup & Beauty Studio 028 2076 8118 www.facebook.com/ louisedonnellymakeupandbeauty – MODEL – Gemma McCorry, The Style Academy 028 9033 2345 www.styleacademy.com – LOCATION – Hillmount House, Larne 028 2827 6751 www.hillmounthouse.com

Dress £89 from The Boudoir, Linen Green, Dungannon; boots £60 from Labels, Lisburn Rd; hat and earrings stylist’s own

Chris WR Cox Photography

Gok Wan Talks feel-good fashion, body-confidence tricks, and the “largest addiction” in his life

BY CATRIONA DOHERTY

ok Wan is coming to Northern Ireland in October to share his secrets to style and body confidence. The fashion guru chats to Northern Woman about ‘Gok Wan’s One Size Fits All 2019 – The Style and Body Confidence Masterclass’. “One Size Fits All is basically the ultimate day out for every single woman in the world, and I can stand by that statement because I have asked almost every single woman in the world and they love it,” Gok begins – his energy and enthusiasm palpable over the phone line. “It’s the funnest day out of fashion, food, drink, laughter, advice, feel-good mentoring and confidence-trick learning. “So our guests arrive, they get a glass of fizz and are ushered in to the Dreamspace; a retail space where we have invited local brands to showcase their stuff, and people can buy if they like. Then they get shown in to a dining space and we have lunch. There are catwalk shows featuring local designers. There’s a body confidence masterclass, and a trend masterclass telling you about what’s happening at the moment; geared towards body shape of course. One lucky person wins a full makeover and at the end you see her transformation. There is a Q&A where you can ask me anything about fashion, style or body confidence. And everyone leaves with a good goodie bag.

µµI suppose I am a bit like fashion’s Bear Grylls∑∑ “It’s a full day out, and lots and lots of fun. Some guest are quite nervous when they arrive because they have not been to an event like that before, but every single one of them leaves smiling, clapping, feeling exhausted from the fun they have had. We create a beautifully relaxed environment that is enjoyable, accessible, and is about the real person.” Gok firmly believes all figures can be enhanced with the right underwear, he will be exploring this further in the One Size Fits All Body shape and control-wear masterclass. “Control wear is one of the first places to go to, to form body confidence,” Gok says. “A lot of people tend to only wear it once a year if they are going to a wedding

Sue Lacey Photography or a party. We will be talking about which pieces you should buy. Control wear is quite expensive, and what you don’t want to be doing is buying pieces that you don’t use or you won’t use again. And of course you can’t return it because it’s seen as lingerie, so the masterclass is about showing you the pieces you should go for, based on your body shape.” Gok talks a lot about body confidence during the NW interview, and on his TV shows How to Look Good Naked and Say Yes to the Dress Lancashire. ‘Why is it important for people to love their body?’ I ask. “I think it is vital,” Gok says. “I think you get one opportunity to be on this planet, I don’t believe in reincarnation, so for me, you have got one chance to be here. You should live your life to the fullest. I know that for people who have low self-esteem

or low body confidence, it can be very damaging, hugely dominant in their life, and it can hold people back from doing what they want to do; relationships, going on holiday, and doing normal day-to-day stuff. So I think having confidence in who you are as a person is the primary thing. But then, having body confidence and understanding your body, regardless of your shape and size – I think that will make your standard of living so much better.” “Do you think it’s possible for everyone to learn to love their body?” I ask. “I would be a massive dictator if I said ‘yes’ to that,” Gok says. “I’d like to believe that everyone has the capability to do that, but it’s almost like asking for world peace. So I think it depends on the individual and it depends on where you are in your life.

Continued on 26 ➤

“For any of your readers who are struggling with their body, or they wake up and look in the mirror and they’ve got a list of things they’d like to change; my only advice would be – you’ve got to work out, where does the fear come from? Where does the hatred come from for your body? Because your body does remarkable things every single day; it looks after you, it looks after your friends and family, it allows you to achieve every single day in so many areas of life. You are the only person who has that problem with it, so what is your problem with it? Where does that come from? And why do you want to look like everybody else? “When you start uncovering some of that stuff, it goes, obviously, a lot deeper and I think it starts working out the dark spaces in your life, and if you can put a bit of light on those spaces, you will naturally feel better about your body because you will feel better about all of the other things.” “Do you think people can delve into their self-image themselves, or would they need help with that?” I ask. “I think people do that when they come to the show. I have talked to so many women post-show and they say: ‘I feel so much better about myself’. “I talk heavily about the world I come from and how I felt about my body and the extreme measures I went to, to change my body and the way that I look. Even just hearing that from somebody else will make you feel better about yourself because you don’t feel like you are alone. “We work very hard in ensuring that people do walk away with a reinforced

sense of positivity, if not an increased sense of positivity.” In helping women to feel better about themselves, Gok has become a hugely successful TV presenter, fashion consultant and author. “What motivates you so strive for success?” I ask. “I love work, I love my job and I know it’s probably my largest addiction in my life. I enjoy going to work. I moan about being at work every day but I know that without it, I wouldn’t be the person that I am. I get a huge amount of strength from success as well, if I do a great show the sense of confidence I get from that is enormous, more than in any other area of my life.

µµyou get one opportunity to be on this planet… you should live your life to the fullest∑∑ “I like challenging myself and seeing how far I can go. I suppose am a bit like fashion’s Bear Grylls in that sense. I will try the daredevil stuff and things that are slightly impossible to see if I can find solutions, and I do really enjoy it.” When it comes to his personal style, Gok describes his own look as “messy and schizophrenic and boring”. “You know hairdressers will have the worst hair, makeup artists will wear the

worst makeup, and stylists will wear the worst clothes – and I’m fine with that. For a moment in my life when I was in my late twenties, I was very concerned with the brands that I was wearing and the clothes that I was putting together, but for me now it’s genuinely about comfort and I’m more than happy with that. I have so much confidence in different areas of my life, that I don’t feel the need to wear designer clothes or the latest trends, I’m just not that type of stylist or person really.” For NW readers who would like to

Chris WR Cox Photography

update their wardrobe for summer without spending a lot of money, Gok offers these words of advice: “It’s about shopping in your own wardrobe, editing and pulling out stuff that you have hidden way or you don’t wear anymore. The edit is very important, then it’s about putting looks together and having an idea about the direction you want to go in this season. “We change constantly in the trends that we go towards, and naturally because we are animals, we behave tribalistically

towards fashion, for example – this season I’m just doing stripes, or shabby chic or boho, or whatever. “Work out what are those trends are, there will be one or two, or maybe three different ones over a season, then make sure when you are buying, the items fit into one of those categories because you will be able to mix and match more easily.” Gok is no stranger to Northern Ireland as he DJs monthly in the Kremlin, Belfast. To conclude I ask him what his ‘ultimate mustdo’ is when he is here.

“The chips and curry sauce at the Union Street, oh my God it’s incredible – literally the best chips and curry sauce I have ever had in my entire life. You have to go there!” Gok Wan’s One Size Fits All – The Style and Body Confidence Masterclass takes place on Sunday 13th October at the Hilton Belfast. Tickets cost £55, to book visit: www.ticketline.co.uk

The smart money is on investments Being savvy with your money means more than just paying off your credit card in full each month. In the first of Northern Woman’s new series of articles on boosting your finances, Jade Beecroft finds out why you should consider investing in the stock market

here’s truth to the old stereotype that women love shopping. Like it or not, we’re society’s big spenders. Whether it’s a new handbag, shoes, lipstick, sofa, haircut or expensive night cream, advertisers see females as consumers. When it comes to saving, we’re rarely encouraged to budget much further than our next big splurge or end-of-the-month treat. As long as the mortgage or rent is covered, and our credit and store cards are paid off, we’re okay. Right? Wrong actually,

according to the growing number of female financial experts. American author Suze Orman, known as the ‘Matriarch of Money’, perhaps puts it best when she explains that taking a better control of your finances means better security and freedom. On her website she says: “You’re never powerful in life until you’re powerful over your own money.” This financial freedom could make all the difference when it comes to life’s big challenges, like getting out of an unhappy relationship or living situation, funding your children’s education, being able to

retire at a sensible age or even staying comfortable through an unforeseen bump in the road, such as a death or illness. So why aren’t more women getting to grips with savings plans? Perhaps it’s down to another big stereotype. While women are the spenders, we also have the image of stock market moguls as stuffy older men in pinstripe suits. The tide is turning though, according to financial planning consultant Jacqui Kyle, from Doherty PIC – Independent Financial Planners, in Belfast. The 38-yearold admits that at work-related conferences and seminars, she’s still one of few women among a male majority. But there are more younger woman now working in the world of finance; and sharing their expertise with others. “It’s so important for women to take control of their money,” she tells Northern Woman. “Times have changed; women are home owners and high earners. “Having a good financial plan in place gives you peace of mind and freedom. It also means you can look forward to a more

comfortable retirement – very few of us still want to be working into our 60s and 70s. “It’s never too early to start thinking about your money and start saving. We need to educate girls more, so that even women in their 20s are starting to save.” The first thing Jacqui advises clients is to make sure they are free of any debt, excluding mortgages. So that means having any credit or store cards, or loans, paid off. If you’re debt-free, the next thing she’ll look at is whether you have adequate protections in place, such as life, mortgage and payment protection insurances. Then we’re into savings, which means a pension plan and emergency fund – ordinarily stashed in an easy-access high interest savings account or ISA where it can be reached quickly in the event of a sudden loss of income. It depends on your circumstances, but many advisors say you should aim to have up to six months of your net income set aside for emergencies. It’s possible you might be reeling already by this point, and promising yourself that

you’ll cut up those store cards and open an ISA next month. But if you’re still reading (come on girls – stick with us here!) then the next step is saving smarter, which could mean looking at investments, and that’s where things get really juicy. Understanding the stock market can seem, to an outsider, trickier than learning a foreign language. But with the right support it can be a way to make your savings work much harder in the longer term. As a general rule, share prices will rise over time. Sure, there will be ups and downs, and the much-reported crashes. But over decades, the trend is upwards. “Think of the price of a can of coke or a bar of chocolate 10 years ago, then think what they cost today,” explains Jacqui. “That’s like the stock market – the price goes up over time. “We advise clients to look at it as their long term savings pot for the future, which may also mean reinvesting their dividends or pledging to buy more shares each month. “If you leave your money in a bank or building society account, it will slowly be eroded by inflation. There’s much more potential for growth if you invest it.” Buying shares isn’t without risk, but some investment plans are riskier than others, so a good financial advisor will assess how bold you want to be. You also want to build a portfolio that spans a number of different industries, so if there’s a problem with the economy or one type of sector is hit, it doesn’t wipe out all your savings. Savvy and experienced investors may feel comfortable buying shares in specific companies; we’ve all read success stories of people who’ve make their fortune by snapping up shares in firms like Apple or Amazon at the opportune moment. But for most of us, well-performing trust funds run by reputable firms, or portfolios put

together by financial advisors, are a much safer bet. So how do you begin? “Unless you have a sudden windfall or inheritance, you may not have a big pot of cash to invest straight away,” says Jacqui. “A lot of people get started by pledging to invest a percentage of their income each month into a portfolio instead. “When the market dips, you can look at buying more stocks at a lower price. But in the meantime, you can drip-feed your money into the stock market. It’s a good way of dipping a toe in. “You can start saving at a rate that’s comfortable for now, and then review it in six months or a year, as your circumstances change. “And remember that not every fund will do well forever, so your advisor should review your portfolio regularly.” If you want to start an investment portfolio, experts agree that it’s important to educate yourself. Northern Woman is a big fan of Suze Orman’s no-nonsense podcasts, or you can follow finance blogs and news websites. Many financial advisors offer their initial consultation for free, and will run through your finances before giving you a suggested starting point. Make sure you look for one who understands where you are in your life and what you want to get out of it. You can then expect to pay a fee for investments made on your behalf, which may be around 3%. Above all, stop viewing having a financial advisor as an extravagance, or something that only wealthy people do. “We have no problem shelling out for a regular haircut or beauty treatment,” Jacqui points out. “Keeping your finances in good order should also be second nature. “Get into the habit of saving and it will last you a lifetime.”

Pre-holiday prep MAN vs WOMAN BY CLARE BOWIE

Three months and counting

Woman: The holiday is more than three months away but she already has a mental list of things to do. She knows it’s not urgent, but it’s always there, in her peripheral vision; so, if she sees a good bikini in TK Maxx in March, then it goes in the basket. It’s never too early to start hunting and gathering, and good bikinis are hard to find. She’s also already saving those Boots points for the bottles of sun cream in

various factors. Man: Business as usual. Current forward planning means putting beer in the fridge on a Thursday.

Two months to go

Woman: Two months to go and she’s thinking – I should probably get my hair colour done now so it’s not going to get ruined on holiday, and then it will also be ready for a refresh when I get back, also it’s

good to get a bit of length for putting it up in a ponytail at the beach. Hmmm, so many decisions. More hunting and gathering occurs in the shape of a new beach bag and a small collection of good books; the type of reading material that will in no way sharpen or inform the mind or prove intellectually stimulating in any form. #purebliss Man: Immediate concerns include ‘what’s for dinner tonight and who won the golf?’

Six weeks pre-holiday

Woman: All the research was done before the trip so she knows before they arrive where they will be picking up the keys, where the local supermarket is, how to find all the child-friendly activities and restaurants, how safe the area is, and how regular the laundry service is. She also knows how many booster seats they will need, how many travel plugs are required, where they will all be sitting on the plane,

where the nearest hospital is and how tall the kids have to be to get on the waterpark/ amusement park rides. Man: His careful research was to book the trip in a tight (non-negotiable) ten-day window, in order to avoid Wimbledon, Olympics, world cups, open golf tournaments and/or Grand Prix events.

Two weeks to go

Woman: The first stage of packing begins, the suitcase is retrieved and will now live in the corner for about a fortnight, as it gets gradually filled up. Swimsuits, towels, inflatables and suncreams can go in early. Books, shorts, travel plugs, teabags, first aid kit and flip flops can also join the party but the ‘real pack’, can wait for now. That is not a job that anyone looks forward to. There’s also the ‘small pack’ to consider; the emergency overnight essentials in case your bag is the one that never makes it to the baggage carousel. Deep breaths, you can do this, it will be all worth it. Man: “Why is this suitcase here? It keeps tripping me up. I mean, how long does it take to pack?”

Two days to go

Woman: Oh no, it’s time for the real pack. You know you’re being a touch over dramatic but for some reason this task

gives you the serious fear. The pressure is building, the children have to stay out of the vicinity because it inexplicably takes all the concentration to get those damn clothing combinations worked out and squeezed in. You count pants and socks in your sleep now. You finally get the kids done before deciding on 11 dresses for yourself (for a ten-day holiday) five pairs of shorts, 12 t-shirts and two jumpsuits, because you just never know what mood you’ll be in and it might get chilly, there may be sunburn and what if it’s all hills and cobblestones? Ok, you know in your heart you’ll actually wear the Primark slides and black dress about six times but all reason has gone now. Right, if you could only find room for the sixth pair of shoes among the 37 pairs of pants (a modest selection of black, nude and white, short, bikini and thong style). Man: Opens bag, throws in five t-shirts, three pairs of shorts, one shirt, flip-flops and underwear. Closes bag.

One day to go

Woman: Disappears into the bathroom for approximately seven hours to wax, shave, pluck, exfoliate, tan and generally transform herself. She had planned to start this yesterday but 10pm the night before seems to have become the only window of opportunity. Obviously she also had to buy

snacks for the plane that day, transport the plants to a neighbour’s house, organise a bin rota with her mother, cancel the window cleaner, take photocopies of the travel documents for the emergency ‘small pack’, download 27 episodes of Peppa Pig, and clean the house from top to bottom rather than come back to a mess. Truth is, she’s not even sure she stills wants to go at this point. Man: Knocks bathroom door on regular basis; “Did you pack the phone chargers? I’ve decided on the route from the airport, do you want me to show you it?”

It’s here!

Woman: Ahh, she finally arrives at the destination after a flight spent constantly feeding children, negotiating window seating rotas, watching Peppa Pig, taking multiple trips to the toilet with children just for the craic, and trying to open a magazine with little success. Reaches accommodation, unpacks all suitcases, hangs up clothes, rearranges beds and furniture, buys food, and finally sits down to sip a warm but welcome glass of wine before getting up approximately 14 times to put children back to bed because they’re: scared, too hot, too cold, too excited, want to go home etc. Holidays are just so relaxing! Man: “Look, I blew up the inflatables”

By Paul Bell

UDDERLY gorgeous art On reading that 9th July marks Cow Appreciation Day in the States, we thought it was only right to pay homage to cows closer to home. Three artists share their artworks with Northern Woman BY CATRIONA DOHERTY

Paul Bell

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have been painting cows for many years now, in fact I will soon be celebrating the 20th anniversary as I began back in 2001 after being inspired by a painting called Whistlejacket by George Stubbs. I think what makes my style of painting cows stand out from others is their colourful backgrounds and the strong physical resemblance to the subject matter, as well as the passion I have to understand their internal makeup, which I believe is ever present in the sculptural quality of my paintings. I have an extensive portfolio of subjects which I love painting but I have always enjoyed painting cows, and they are still very popular and sought after all over the world. I am extremely proud of where they have brought me in my painting career to date.â&#x20AC;? Paul paints from his studio in Ballymena. See his work at the Eakin Gallery, Belfast, and online at: www.paulbellartist.co.uk

By Terry Bradley

Terry Bradley

“I thoroughly enjoyed painting this cow. It was the second one I did, the first was for the Cow Parade in Dublin. With this one I was able to go mad and do whatever I wanted. The body has a bit of a Bollywood theme and the face was inspired by Indian women’s jewels and henna tattooing. I stuck all the jewels on first and then each dot was hand applied. It took hours but I really lost myself in the design and I loved it.” To see more of Terry’s work visit his gallery in Bangor, or see: terrybradley.com

Emma Cownie

“I was walking along the coastline when I noticed this family of cows together by the edge of a cliff overlooking the sea. I had this whimsical thought about them sitting for a family portrait in a photographer’s studio under the lights and muted backgrounds. An idea was born and I have painted a series on this theme.”

By Emma Cownie

Emma lives between Donegal and Swansea. To see her work, visit: emmafcownie.com

BEAUTY 34

Black Utopia Volumising Mascara from Sleek £8.88

Legendary Lashes by Charlotte Tilbury £25

CLASSIC

The standard classic wand is one every woman probably has in her makeup bag. This style of brush will deliver a voluminous result.

FAT BRUSH

Forget what you heard – bigger is always better, when it comes to increasing the volume on your lashes. This jumbo-sized wand creates a voluminous doll-eyes look. Just remember, a bigger wand means more product and more product means more volume. Both the Jane Iredale and Palladio Beauty mascaras are certified cruelty- and parabenfree products. 4D Boost Mascara from Palladio Beauty £11

Rebel Eyes Lengthening Mascara from Gosh £8.99

Brush

Choosing the right mascara wand for your lashes

TAPERED

SKINNY BRUSH

The pointed end of a tapered wand is designed to reach those teeny tiny lashes at the inner corner of your eye. Coating all of the lashes ensures even coverage, to add length and volume. The tip makes it easier to coat the bottom set also.

Catchy Eyes from Gosh £8.49

If your lashes are naturally scarce and short, opt for a skinny wand which is designed to add length and definition. As each hair is coated from the very bottom to the tip, they end up looking much longer. The micro brush is also good for separating lashes.

TOP TIP

Tori McCormack, Senior Brand Manager at La Roche-Posay says: “When choosing the right mascara, you should choose a wand based on your desired outcome. The length, volume and definition of your lashes is dictated by the wand. Simply put, a big wand creates the ‘big lash’ effect - add more product on the lashes for thickness. A slim wand works best for lengthening the lash look, and a spiral brush or wand that’s tightly packed is best for definition, as it grabs each lash during application.”

Luxe Waterproof Mascara from Ariane Poole £18

MegaSlim Skinny Mascara from wet n wild £3.19

CURVED

The purpose of a curved brush is to curl. The wand mimics the natural shape of the eyelashes and helps them to move upwards and outwards, while the comb prevents clumping. The rubber brush in Gosh’s Cathy Eyes aids precise application and delivers a ‘cat eye’ effect.

[cut L

BYE BYE BAGS

Developed with plastic surgeons, this full coverage concealer from IT Cosmetics delivers highly pigmented, long-lasting coverage that won’t crease or crack— and is now available in an impressive 24 true-to-skin shades. Infused with anti-aging, skin-loving ingredients and high-performance pigments, this revolutionary concealer improves the appearance of wrinkles and effectively conceals the look of skin imperfections including dark circles, Bye Bye Under Eye Full bags, redness, Coverage Anti-Aging hyperpigmentation, Waterproof Concealer broken capillaries, from IT Cosmetics was age spots and £24 now £12 discolouration. Magic!

HELLO SUNSHINE

Tanning brand Bellamianta introduces a Skin Perfecting Illuminating Bronzing Powder to its range. The golden flecked finely milled powder adds subtle coverage to the skin, while the ultrafine light reflecting particles leave a diffused radiance that is perfect for every occasion. Ideal for use on both the face and body; swipe down the leg or swoosh across the chest and arms to bring your tan to life. Skin Perfecting Illuminating Bronzing Powder from Bellamianta £19.99

THE SCRUB OF YOUR LIFE

The new SOLU Sea Salt Scrub Cleanser from Davines is the equivalent of a cleansing facial exfoliator but for your hair and scalp. A fabulously revitalising treatment that stimulates circulation and leaves a lasting feeling of ultra clean, buoyant hair with an additional texturising effect. Additionally, it helps maintain the wellbeing of scalp and hair, as the removal of pollution particles prevents signs of ageing and preserves the quality of the hair fibre. SOLU Sea Salt Scrub Cleanser from Davines £22.50

WELL PROTECTED

The Beauty Edit BY CLAIRE CRAIG

The latest makeup, hair and skincare summer must haves ALL THE GLOSS

SOLAR BLOOM

There’s nothing as evocative as fragrance and the latest offering from Clean Reserve is summer in a bottle. Notes of Orange Blossom, Freesia, Jasmine and Coconut Water infuse in this warm scent to bring memories of sunshine and beach days flooding back. The fragrance is also available in a handy 10ml travel size (£20) making it perfect for vacation. Solar Bloom from Clean Reserve £88

Hyaluronic filling spheres and luminous oils add natural-looking plump without the pain in Stila’s new lip glosses. Available in 12 high-shine shades from timeless classics to trendy hues like In The Black (a chic noir shade) and Blue Sky (a cornflower blue) all with iridescent pearls to create intense shine and amplified dimension. Lips are left hydrated, full, shiny (but not tacky), and with a dose of lip-loving vitamins, antioxidants and botanicals for an Beauty Boss Lip enviable pout. Gloss from Stila £14

Created by Yorkshire mums Gillian Robson and Katy Foxcroft, after Gillian discovered she had skin cancer, this luxury cream prevents sunburn, helps slow down skin ageing and gives a natural golden looking tan. Three years of research and development went into the award-winning formula; it uses the latest sunscreen technology, natural phospholipids and a vegetable derived cationic emulsifier which amongst Tancream from www.tancream.co.uk many things also conditions the skin. £44.95

ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS

Minimise your makeup bag without compromise with Bourjois new Always Fabulous Stick Foundcealer. Yes, that’s right – a foundation and a concealer all in one handy, easy-to-apply stick. As a foundation it offers even coverage with a buildable lightweight, creamy texture and as a concealer it delivers full, waterproof cover for dark Always Fabulous Stick circles, blemishes Foundcealer from and other Bourjois £11.99 imperfections.

BERRY NICE

A must for beach bags and handbags alike, the iconic Tangle Teaser has a new look for Summer 2019 with its pink and red colour combo. With all the attributes of the original brush Strawberry Passion has long teeth to detangle and shorter ones to smooth the hair cuticle – resulting in healthy looking, shiny hair. Use on wet or dry hair it detangles with minimum Strawberry Passion fuss, breakage from Tangle Teaser and damage. £10.60

— COMPETITION —

Win a Spa-Tisserie experience with Hastings Hotels

H TO ENTER Simply answer the following question... Which two of the Hastings Hotels have a spa? a. The Culloden Estate and Spa and Slieve Donard Resort and Spa b. The Everglades Hotel and Stormont Hotel c. The Europa Hotel and Ballygally Castle Email your answer and contact details to: competitions@ northernwoman.co.uk before 5pm on Friday 27 July 2019 T&Cs: The prize is available Monday to Thursday, excludes public and bank holiday and is subject to availability. Prize must be taken by 30th December 2019. INM T&Cs apply.

astings Hotels is offering Northern Woman readers the chance to have your cake - relax, look good and eat it. One lucky reader will win the decadent SpaTisserie Experience for two people at either The Spa at Slieve Donard or The Spa at Culloden. The prize includes the choice of a 55-minute spa treatment and use of the spa facilities followed by Afternoon Tea. You will be treated to one 55-minute spa treatment each, choosing from a section including an ESPA Aromatherapy Full Body Massage and ESPA Aromatherapy Facial, before enjoying morning coffee or afternoon tea with a selection of mouthwatering finger sandwiches, savouries, cakes, pastries and scones – the perfect way to spend the day with your girlfriends or bridal party in the run up to your big day. If you aren’t the lucky winner you can treat yourself or a loved one to Spa-Tisserie at The spa at Culloden for £100 per person Monday – Friday, or £110 per person on Saturday and Sunday. And The Spa at Slieve Donard from £105 per person Monday – Friday, or £115 per person on Saturday and Sunday. Available daily from 9am – 4pm. For further information or for reservations please contact The Spa at Culloden on: 028 9042 1135, The Spa at Slieve Donard on: 028 4372 6166, or see: www.hastingshotels.com.

or most people a spa day is seen as a treat – do you see it as such? Absolutely a visit to a day spa is a wonderful treat and a great way to celebrate a special occasion with friends or a loved one. Generally after a day off in the spa we feel better, happier, energised, more positive, and have the best intentions to do a spa day more often. However, life, work and circumstances often mean that a return visit will be months if not years. This is where I feel, if people truly understood the many benefits that they receive mentally, emotionally and physically from a regular ‘re-boot’ spa day, they would accept it as a sensible approach to wellbeing and longevity. In my view, a dedicated self-care day once a month is not a treat any longer but a necessity, to help us cope and adapt to the demands of modern living. We are very aware that we live in a world of sensory overload that contributes to many energy zapping side effects, such as poor quality sleep, brain fog, fatigue and ever-present fluctuating levels of stress that create low grade inflammation within the body. However, the good news is that our amazing bodies have a natural ability to regulate and repair themselves, when given the right environment; which is peace and quiet and time. The day spa is the perfect zone dedicated and designed for this healing time, with all the essential experts on hand to help, if required. tips and advice, you are mentally and Regular spa treatments such as emotionally ready to implement full body exfoliation, detoxing some easy positive lifestyle therapy, and a variety of choices. massage, really support By choosing to book the body’s functions that regular spa therapy become sluggish due to appointments, you feel lack of exercise and over and maintain the benefits use of certain muscle of the treatments, while groups. Typically, long keeping focused on your hours sitting at a desk, specific needs. commuting and lying Also, many spas offer a Catherine Azzariti exhausted on the sofa at the wide variety of therapeutic end of the day have a negative treatments, such as Yon-Ka impact on posture, circulation, Paris Aroma-Energy shiatsu lymph drainage and fluid retention. massage, Aroma-Sculpt bamboo Going to a professional leg treatment or Aroma-Relax hot spa therapist can stone tension melting massage, dramatically which offer the added benefit of improve these aromatherapy. Every visit to the conditions and spa can be an exciting discovery after a thorough of some new technique and consultation, experience customised to get the

A TREAT or PREVENTATIVE MEDICINE? “A dedicated self-care day once a month is not a treat any longer but a necessity,” writes Yon-Ka Trainer Catherine Azzariti

best results for you. We should invest in ourselves now, we should do something today that our future self will thank us for. Spending time and valuing our mind, body, being fit and feeling fabulous are great places to start. For readers who want to have an at-home spa day, my top three product recommendations are: Yon-ka Paris Phyto Bain de-stress bath and shower oil which has an incredible blend of botanical extracts and lavender, rosemary, petitgrain and sage; Yon-Ka Paris Jasmine sugar scrub used to gently exfoliate away dead cells to leave the skin smooth and nourished; and any of the Yon-Ka Paris natural spray on body oils – the Detox oil to boost cellular health with in the skin, Silhouette slimming oil with pink pepper, or the Huile Delicieuse Jasmine Hair and body repairing oil.

NORTHE MA RN WO N

n a m o w

ERN NORTH

Gok Wan

dence dy confi talks boBelfast show & his

201 9 JULY

sues s i 1 1 t e G d to rs delivereor fo4r8 hou your doLY Aiming cia in Valen

LIDAY PRE-HOEP PR

VOLUME

£15! ON

THIS MONTH WITH A

€2.50

9 £2.50/

July 201

HIGH

DRimEprSessS to

Life’s a

Beach er shorts t • Summ he d on croc • Hooke ear g swimw • Sizzlin

NUMBER

Are CORNER OGGER PLUS: BL

ing you keep

up with

s? the Insta

SUBSCRIPTION

FREE

Crystal Clear Rapid Self Tanning Clear Mousse from Bellamianta Treat yourself to the ultimate skin treatment with vegan and organic tan brand, Bellamianta Luxury Tanning. The award-winning Bellamianta’s Crystal Clear Rapid Self-Tanning Clear Mousse is the first ever rapid crystal-clear self-tanning mousse on the market. Crystal Clear is as hydrating as water and as light as air; consider it a drink for your skin, whilst at the same time, delivering a radiant, olive glow. This tanning hero foams up on the skin so you can lather it on with the Bellamianta tanning mitt and feel where the product is going. It’s effortless tanning. With a nutritious formula that’s as light as air,

this product absorbs into the skin, drying within a staggering 60 seconds, meaning there’s no time wasted after your application. What’s more, it’s transfer resistant from the moment it goes on. With no guide colour, there’s no risk of tanning stains on clothes or bedsheets. Over the next 2-6+ hours a golden olive glow will develop, lasting up to 7 days. The longer you leave the tan to develop, the deeper the shade will be; meaning you have total control. And here’s the best part: because of its ultra-smart hydration system, Crystal Clear is one of the first tans on the market that guarantees an effortless and even wearing off process.

WO £19 RTH .99

CALL TODAY

Get 11 issues for only £15 and save £12.50

0800 028 1909 Republic of Ireland: 0044 800 028 1909

To sign up call NI (Freephone):

or email and request a call back: subscriptions@belfasttelegraph.co.uk *subject to availability

HEALTH & WELLNESS

ll of us, at some point in our life, can become stuck. Things that have flowed smoothly for years – ways of working, fitting everything in, careers, raising a family, organising everything successfully – can suddenly go pop without the slightest warning. It happened to me. One day, everything important in my life – husband, career, lifestyle – suddenly felt empty and meaningless, and I had no idea why. Was it the trauma of my mother’s death, followed only a few months later by the shock discovery of my husband’s cancer? Whatever the reason, it was a catalyst for a life change that would stretch me to the limit. The emotional rollercoaster that followed lasted some years, involving redundancy, divorce, and even falling for someone who, it turned out, was not available. I was devastated with all my failures. However, over time, with the help of some 37 therapies, I began slowly to regain some balance. I learned a few lessons such as - you can take control and do something for yourself that can really make a difference, whatever your problems. Here’s what to do, when you don’t know what to do:

STOP

Just stop. Switch off that phone, turn off the news, and quit looking at those wonderful images of perfect lives on social media – it’s not true anyway, there are always ups and downs. Light some candles, take a bath and put on some relaxing music, or simply lie down and take some time for you. Breathe deeply and slowly for a minute or so until everything in your system begins to settle down. Allow yourself to be still and enjoy this time. You’ll be in a far better position to be able to sort out problems from this place of calm.

ASK

Next ask yourself what it is that you really want? Think of positive things that you want to bring into your life, things that will make you happy, make you smile and feel good about yourself.

‘I had a successful career, a beautiful home and a loving husband, until the day I woke up and said ‘I’m leaving’,’ writes Kay Hutchison, author of My Life in 37 Therapies

best self. It will even give confidence and increase feelings of self-worth.

APPRECIATE

Spend time thinking about all the positive things that you already have in your life. As you start writing down your long list of simple pleasures, you should immediately begin to feel lighter and happier. If you feel good about yourself, you are far more likely to attract more good into your life. So many therapists and well-known self-help gurus quote this ‘Law of Kay Hutchison Attraction’ – it’s worked for them. So why not for you?

EAT WELL

Commit to looking after yourself as much as possible from now on; that you will eat good, healthy and nutritious food, and drink lots of water. You don’t need to go crazy - just make gradual changes; eat more slowly and savor the taste.

EXERCISE

What to do when you don’t know what to do

Make sure you exercise to help your whole body to function at peak performance. Even a simple walk in the park on your own enjoying nature, the peace and your own company, can work wonders. The combination of healthy eating with regular exercise will help you be your

TRY

Trying new activities can have real benefits. Simply getting yourself out of the routine, meeting new people from different walks of life, and seeing things from another perspective, can transform your thinking for the better. You might want to try something that you’ve always been curious about, or how about a new health treatment – massage, reiki, reflexology – all very restorative and health-giving.

TREATMENTS

wonderful treatments; fitness regimes, new foods, diets, short holidays, retreats, and more. I talked with friends about the therapies they had tried – amazing how many people do try, but don’t always share until it comes up in conversation. Friends started asking me along on retreats they fancied. The silent retreat was fascinating; one Christmas I didn’t speak a word for ten days, alongside fifty other women, and we spent hours meditating. At the end I found I was perfectly happy being quiet, it cleared out all the rubbish in my mind. I was drawn to more spiritual pursuits, yoga retreats, an ayurvedic retreat in India, even a shamanic retreat in Egypt. There was past-life regression, psychotherapy and more. You begin to learn more about yourself and your real needs. I’m not suggesting you need to go that far but there’s something out there for everyone. Therapies helped me to overcome a period of turmoil. I also gained knowledge and new friends. So if you’re stuck and don’t know where you’re going, one of the best things to do is to simply stop and get off the merry-goround, take time for yourself.

For more from Kay Hutchison, see her new book My life in 37 Therapies, which is out 4th July and costs £9.99.

I tried a host of weird and

Shibuya district, Tokyo

hen you think of backpackers, an image of scruffy 20-somethings with dreadlocks, smoking weed in Thailand on their gap years, probably springs to mind. Enter septuagenarian and Parkinson’s disease patient Maura Ward. The Kilkeel grandmother has visited over 50 countries, often sleeping on overnight buses or bedding down on airport floors, in her ongoing mission to see the world. Her adventures, which she documents in her blog the Geriatric Traveller, have seen her eating goat stew in Afghanistan under 24-hour armed guard and watching Usain Bolt break world records at the Beijing Olympics. When many grandmas are joining knitand-natter groups, gardening or looking after their grandkids, Maura is dreaming of her next trip. This month she will journey to Japan to climb the 3776m Mount Fuji to mark her 70th birthday and raise money for the Parkinson’s Trust. “I did a skydive for my 65th birthday, but this is going to be my toughest challenge yet,” admits Maura. “The Parkinson’s affects my balance, I can be a little unsteady on my feet, so I know the climb is going to take some time. But come hell or high water, I’m going to get to the top!” It was in Morocco over 50 years ago that Maura was first bitten by the travel bug. She had just finished college and wanted to visit somewhere exotic. At the time, Morocco wasn’t a tourist destination – it was a far cry from the ‘Kiss-Me-Quick’ hats and sticks of rock at Portstewart or Newcastle. By her late 20s she was a social worker and single mum with two small children, Johnny, now 36, and Aisling, now 35. By her own admission “life got in the way”. She swapped her dreams of far flung places for family holidays to caravan parks in France. It wasn’t until 2007, aged 47, that Maura got chance to indulge her wanderlust again. Johnny had moved to Thailand to teach English, so she headed out to visit him. “Bangkok airport is huge and I missed my connection to meet him,” she laughs.

The ruins of the parliament building in Sukhumi, capital of the disputed country of Abkhazia

Kilkeel grandmother Maura Ward has won a legion of followers with her Geriatric Traveller blog She talks to Northern Woman before heading to Japan to climb Mount Fuji for her 70th birthday BY JADE BEECROFT “There were no other planes until morning. “It turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I love meeting new people, so I spent the whole night rambling around the terminal, drinking cups of coffee and chatting to anyone with a smattering of English – security guards, cleaners, airport staff. “They were all so friendly, it was a brilliant start to the trip.” The following year she and Johnny were in the Bird’s Nest Stadium for the Beijing Olympics, cheering as Usain Bolt set a new world record in the 100m. Johnny was

becoming a well-respected travel blogger, with his site OneStep4Ward, so Maura began to accompany him on his trips. But in 2013, she noticed that her motor skills were beginning to deteriorate. “I was struggling with buttons and the zips on my backpack,” she explains. “My handwriting was ropey, and I’d developed a shake in my left leg. “At first I put it down to a trapped nerve, but as time wore on I knew I needed to see a doctor. I was referred to hospital for tests. “My biggest fear was a brain tumour, but

Bodbe Monastery, Georgia

A local guest house known as a ryokan, in Central Japan near the city of Nagano

I was still completely shocked when I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. It may have been the lesser of two evils, but it was still a lot to take in.” Parkinson’s is a degenerative illness affecting the nervous system. Maura was given medication to ease her symptoms, but she knew it was progressive and she would never be cured. After a few weeks alternating between denial and self pity, she had a “light bulb moment”. “I kept thinking ‘why me?’ What have I done to deserve this?” she explains. “The one day, I suddenly thought ‘why not me?’ Why should I be any different to anybody else? “That brought me up by the heels and completely changed my mindset. Parkinson’s was the hand I’d been dealt, and I had to make the best of it. “I improved my diet, going vegetarian, and joined a gym, lifting weights and walking on the treadmill. Between that and the medication, my symptoms started to ease.”

Friends told Maura that her diagnosis would mean an end to her travelling, but the plucky pensioner had other ideas. A few months later she jetted off to South America to backpack round Peru and Ecuador. “Standing in the Andes, watching the sun rise over Machu Picchu, I knew I wanted to see as much of the world as I could,” she remembers. She began her own blog, The Geriatric Traveller, to share tips for older travelers. Meanwhile Johnny began keeping a list of all the places she’d visited – calling it ‘Mum’s Countries’. He himself was aiming to visit every country in the world, so in 2016 he had some news for Maura. The pair of them were visiting Aisling, who lives in London with her two children, Romilly, six and Jasper, four. “Johnny said he’d organised a trip to Afghanistan, accompanied by a security firm,” she explains. “I asked to go with him, but he said no way, it was too dangerous. “That evening, we put in a Skype call to the security firm, and Johnny told them that I was sitting beside him, wanting to know if he’d be safe. “The guard told him that of course he’d be safe – in fact he could bring his sister, his gran, his mum, whoever… “I turned to Johnny grinning and said ‘that does it, I’m coming with you!’”

Johnny and Maura pictured in the 9th century walled city of Sighnaghi in Georgia

In September 2016 Maura flew to Kabul via Istanbul, meeting Johnny at the airport. “Kabul was the most incredible city, although we travelled everywhere under 24hour armed guard,” she says. “Young boys were playing cricket in the dusty streets and I’ll never forget the looks in their eyes. Years of war had taken their toll. “I hardly saw any women, and those that were outside were heavily veiled. I myself kept my head covered, but most places were very welcoming, with restaurants beckoning us in to enjoy the traditional goat stew.” Maura has now visited over 50 countries, sometimes meeting up with Johnny, but often traveling alone. She thinks nothing of sleeping in airports or staying in travellers’ hostels – often as the oldest person there by several generations. “I love people watching, human beings fascinate me,” she smiles. “Everywhere I go, I look for opportunities to chat to people and make friends. Language only has to be a barrier if you make it one. “You have to priorise though, traveling can be expensive. I haven’t had a new carpet or curtains for years – those things aren’t important to me. “I look for the cheapest flights possible, which often means multiple connections. Airports are some of the safest places to spend the night though, because they have high security. I just bed down with my sleeping bag, using my rucksack as a pillow.” Maura turned 70 in April, and on July 7th she and Johnny with join a team in Japan to climb Mount Fuji in aid of the Parkinson’s Trust. “I hope I’ll still be traveling long into the future,” she says. “But I know what I’m going to do when the disease takes hold. I’ve told Johnny and Aisling that I’ll be going to Switzerland. “But there’s a big wide world out there and I’ve still got so much left to see. Parkinson’s can wait.” To sponsor Maura visit: www.gofundme.com/climbing-mount-fujiat-70-with-Parkinsons

BURIED WITHIN Northern Woman explores the heartbreaking reality of hoarding disorder

he complexities of mental health have received massive attention of late with awareness campaigns and charities, as well as high-profile celebrities, doing their bit to expose the disorders that are impacting on how we live our lives contently. But one such condition that has yet to make its mark on that radar is hoarding; defined as a ‘disorder where someone acquires an excessive number of items and stores them in a chaotic manner, usually resulting in unmanageable amounts of clutter’. Catherine Glenn, Project Manager; Housing Support for Older People at Belfast Central Mission (BCM) – which supports the community in Belfast and surrounding areas, tells NW that five percent of the population in the UK lives with the disorder. That amounts to a shocking 8,000 people in Belfast alone.

who are a nine on that scale.” A nine on the hoarder scale is when an individual accumulates so much ‘stuff’ that it affects their ability to move around “It’s here, it’s in Belfast, not just England,” their home. And in many cases this poses Catherine begins. “And if we have a possible hygiene risks. A hoarder is anyone whose 8,000 in Belfast what’s that figure like in home falls between five to nine on the CIR the rest of Northern Ireland?” she asks. picture chart. “Clearly it is an issue that isn’t being Catherine says there are two types of addressed but we will certainly plod on hoarders; clean and dirty. “Clean hoarding here to address it,” adds Catherine, who has is when a person collects items in mass worked with those afflicted by hoarding that they may not necessarily need, and their families, as well as like cleaners or crockery. They landlords to “manage the do this because they get that situation”. feel-good factor when they When asked to order it online or from a TV differentiate between shopping channel. They don’t clutter and hoarding, need it but they continue to Catherine explains: “We buy the same thing. We have have a guideline, a series been into one home that had of pictures – it’s called around ten Dirt Devils. the Clutter Image Rating “Dirty hoarding is when (CIR) and it shows a range Catherine Glenn it’s an accumulation of rubbish. scenes marked with a rating This often attracts complaints from of one to nine. A few things lying neighbours, and in those cases we would about is a one and most of us would work with environmental health because have that, but we have worked with those

BY EMMA DEIGHAN

likely live alone, are unmarried, or have had a deprived childhood with either a lack of material objects or a poor relationship with other members of their family. Some may even be continuing a history of hoarding in the family. The Belfast Central Mission deals with adults over the age of 55 with hoarding problems. Catherine believes the over-55 demographic’s experience of the troubles may have also intensified the likelihood to develop disorders like hoarding. “Experiences from the past can often impact later in life, and the age group that we deal with wouldn’t have had the same life experiences younger people have today. That trauma can manifest into something like hoarding,” she says. Hoarding was recognised as a mental health condition by the NHS in 2013 and just last year the World Health Organisation followed suit. It’s a step in the right direction believes Catherine, who has been working tirelessly to help those suffering to overcome their hoarding behaviour. “Some people are blind to the problem, a few people don’t see it as an issue, and then you have other people who are embarrassed and frightened to let people into their homes. One of their biggest concerns is being sent into care if the hoarding is discovered, so we try to come in and work out a plan to help manage the situation.” Quite often those who have engaged in support “find it so difficult to let go” says Catherine. “But it’s about supporting that person should that be moving a bag a week, which is what our train of thought would be. You can’t go in and remove everything at once. That would impact on their mental health so badly.” The Belfast Central Mission begins its clean-up process in a methodical fashion “looking at essential rooms first” and “clearing pathways”. Catherine describes it

as an intense cognitive procedure. But not everyone is willing to accept support Catherine reveals. “Over the years some say they are ready and when a support worker tries to start there are always excuses and while they’re making a few noises about improvement, they’re not ready to go there. “We have to look at it from their point of view. We had one person who worked with us and when we cleared the house she said she felt lonely because she wasn’t surrounded by her things. They feel like they lose that support and feeling of security.” Whether it’s a family member or a concerned neighbour or those living with hoarding, BCM says it’s open to helping. “Anybody can phone us,” advises Catherine. “This a person-centred service. Families can ask us to meet with any relatives affected and we can go and have conversations.” Charity Belfast Central Mission was set up in 1889 to improve the quality of life for older people by both practical and emotional means. It also works with families and young people. For more information, visit: www.belfastcentralmission.org or call: 028 9024 1917.

the biggest issue is the infestation of rats and mice. We have worked at houses where it is not physically possible to get into the house because the household rubbish has piled up,” continues Catherine. Catherine recalls one case where a tenant slept on the rubbish such was the intensity of the hoarding. “He was buying duvets to put on top of the rubbish to sleep on,” she divulges. The heart-breaking reasons behind the condition, the causes if you like, can be varied but most stem from trauma and suffering. Some of those living with hoarding may have had a tragic bereavement that triggered the behaviour. “It could be abuse or rape, or it could be a mental health breakdown or a death,” continues Catherine. “We have one person whose mother died and they had a breakdown. In this home there are floor-toceiling items. The house sits still and you can see that person has crawled through pathways to get to other rooms.” According to the NHS, many people who hoard express self-neglect. It states they

Change your attitude, CHANGE YOUR LIFE ‘A winning mentality is not only critical to your success; it’s entirely yours to choose’, writes business mentor, entrepreneur and author Royston Guest

quality of the internal conversations taking don’t know how you’re feeling right place. The mind is such a powerful force now, or how you generally view your and, no matter what thoughts you’ve given life, your circumstances, or whatever your greatest attention to in the past, the you might refer to as ‘luck’. But great news is that you can override years of what I do know is this: you could poor programming with the right focus. well be missing the big picture. And the big picture is that you and I have 100 percent control – yes, 100 percent Failures are just stepping stones control – over how we choose to think. We to success can deliberately change this at any time. There is no such thing as a failure. A key Therefore, fundamentally the key part of programming your winning to success and failure is simply mentality is to reframe each this; you become what you failure as just another step think about and it’s your on your path. You change choice. your mindset; you change If you’re not yet the game. Success is practising a winning simply the ability to mentality every day by go from one failure to conscious, deliberate the next, learning and choice – start now. It’s growing as you go and not an overstatement to never losing enthusiasm as suggest that it can literally you keep the end goal in the Royston Guest change everything. Here are my front of your mind. five attitude enablers that will give power to your winning mentality: Use dynamic language The things you say and words you use have equal power to shape your You become what you think about thoughts. Be aware of your choice all day long of words, what they mean and the Some of the most important conversations impact they can have on yourself and you have are the ones inside your head – others. with yourself. It’s critical to pay attention There is a great scene in Star Wars and truly listen to your inner voice and the

Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, where Luke Skywalker is being coached in the Jedi skills by Yoda. Luke says he is going to ‘try’ to lift a rock with his mind, only to be rebuked by Yoda for letting himself off the hook before he even starts. ‘Do or do not. There is no ‘try’, Yoda says. It’s a great metaphor for life. Either you commit and get it done, or you don’t commit and don’t get it done.

Who you spend time with is who you become

You can’t choose your family, but you can choose your friends. Choose wisely. Pick people who want to celebrate your success and whose friendship and support make you want to celebrate theirs as you build your buildings higher and higher.

Nothing’s as bad as you’re making it out to be

Use the framing technique or reality checker, aka ‘get a grip’. This technique will help you align your thinking with ‘nothing’s as bad as you’re making it out to be’. To develop a great winning mentality every day, you’ve got to overcome the natural human tendency to blow small things out of proportion. Work on having a rational amount of perspective about things.

From more from Royston Guest, pick up a copy of his new book Rise: Start Living the Life You Were Meant To Lead, £14.99.

What is your new book Super Nutrition: Get Healthy, Lose Weight, Feel Great about?

This book is a complete eating plan, in which you can design your daily menus to work around your busy lifestyle. The main focus is on natural detoxification and ensuring the consumption of a full spectrum of macro nutrients (protein, complex carbs and good fats) and micro nutrients (vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients), over the period of any given week. We have natural feedback systems within us that maintains balance. It is vital to our health that we stay in a state of equilibrium. When balance is disrupted we may be at risk of illness, and reasons for this could be having a poor diet, smoking, drug abuse, exposure to toxins, or high stress.

What inspired you to write this book?

My own health issues lead me to realise that there had to be a cause, and my symptoms were the effect. I looked closely at my diet and lifestyle and wondered if this was causing my ailments; persistent mouth ulcers and Terry McIlroy severe adult acne. After visiting a nutritionist and following some of her instructions, I was convinced that my diet was playing a massive part in my health. I was hooked on this concept and I decided to study nutrition. A short time into the three-year course I knew that my calling was to create this book.

Five minutes with:

You have written in your book: ‘I believe in nutrients, not calories’ – please elaborate on that.

I believe I have simplified how to eat to support ones health by focusing on nutrients, not calories. Counting calories is too complicated, therefore it is inevitable that most people will fail with this dietary model. Looking for nutrient value is straightforward and easy. It is important to stress that we as consumers must see through this smokescreen of hidden sugars and artificial ingredients that are in mainly processed foods nowadays.

Which store cupboard staples do you favour?

n Himalayan Pink Salt in its natural state contains at least 88 different minerals such as magnesium, potassium and sodium, which our bodies recognise. This spectrum of minerals work synergistically to promote our health, whereas regular table salt is reduced to one mineral – sodium chloride, which is a driver for pathologies such as high blood pressure. n Tellicherry Black Peppercorns contains highly potent phytochemicals such as bio-piperine, which encourages the

Belfast professional chef, nutritional therapist, and recipe book author Terry McIlroy

absorption and assimilation of vitamins and minerals in our diet. Pepper that is already ground contains chemicals and preservatives. n Apple cider vinegar (with the mother) is rich in enzymes and potassium, it supports a healthy immune system and helps to control weight. n Local raw organic honey is an antioxidant powerhouse that boosts your immune system, helping you to fend off disease. It has antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties, and is the perfect source of energy for your liver. n Extra virgin organic olive oil is a great way to include omega-3 essential fatty acids in your diet. Processed oils are devoid of this macronutrient.

For readers who want to ‘get healthy, lose weight, feel great’ – what’s the first step?

that we cannot change our diet overnight. We need to make small changes gradually and turn them into lifelong good habits. For example take warm water with fresh lemon and ginger every morning; this is a fantastic way to help detoxify our liver and body, and a perfect starting point on your journey to good health and happiness. Swap your usual seasonings and sweeteners for those I have previously mentioned. We are consuming foods which are heavily processed, pasteurised and devoid of nutrients. We need to educate ourselves on what real natural food really is. My book is a great starting point to really whet your appetite for this knowledge. For more from Terry, see his book Super Nutrition, which is available to buy online from retailers including amazon. co.uk and can be ordered from all good bookstores, RRP £17.99.

It’s important to remember

From FIELD to FORK

BY SAL HANVEY

have just come in from planting vegetables in the garden, and now that summer is finally underway all of my batch have been set. I have an array of delights growing this year – last year was merely a trial run in comparison. Among them are broccoli, scallions, onions, leeks, courgettes, carrots, cucumbers, two varieties of tomato, Jersey Royal potatoes, pumpkin and various squashes, beetroot, broad beans, strawberries, rhubarb, lettuce, red peppers and chili peppers. There’s a range of culinary and medicinal herbs including dill, fennel, coriander, basil, mint, rosemary, thyme, chives, flat leaf parsley and lemon balm. I could be almost self-sufficient at this rate. It has always been a passion of mine,

if not a dream, to imagine living completely self-sufficiently. It would be difficult as a lot of time and energy would be required to create that lifestyle. However growing your own shouldn’t be a terrifying concept. Even just growing on a small scale will give satisfaction to those curious enough to try. I suggest starting off with some simple herbs, parsley, and mint – although contain it in a pot as it can take over and spread easily. Tomato plants can be set in a grow bag, use bamboo rods to secure them once they starts to grow. They thrive in a warm

area, preferably a greenhouse. I recommend watching a variety of YouTube tutorials to get you started. Soon I will be in a position to share my own short gardening video clips. I’m learning from scratch and I am embracing the errors, challenges and even the dreaded slugs, but also the great satisfaction of creating something myself from field to fork. Speaking of forks, that brings me to this month’s recipe Cream of Broccoli Soup. ‘Cream of’ connotes dairy was used in the recipe to create that rich, smooth texture

Cream of Broccoli Soup (vegan style) Photo credit: Ken Haddock

that often comes with this type of soup. For years I used coconut as a dairy alternative, and I still do to an extent, but I try not to rely so heavily on it for savory soups as the coconut taste can sometimes drown out some of the other amazing flavour combinations. For this soup I have used cashew nuts. My partner Jack could eat them until the cows come home, however when he decides to leave me some, I often turn them into a cream. Cashew nuts are such a versatile food; you can make butter, milk and cream from them as I often do. This will be explained in the recipe method section of the article. Today I planted my favourite vegetable of all time – broccoli. It reminds me of a little tree of life, offering so many nutrients and so much flavour and texture. I have been fortunate enough to have been given opportunity to volunteer at Helen’s Bay Organic Farm, Bangor. Farm owner John McCormick has been teaching and guiding me well. I germinated my first ever purple sprouted broccoli from seed, a few weeks ago and it was very satisfying. I can’t wait to taste the broccoli when it is ready to eat. My recipe for Cream of Broccoli Soup is suitable for vegans. It is wheat-, dairy-,

sugar-, egg-, flour- and yeast-free. When tasting the soup, I hope you agree that dairy is not missed in this recipe, yet all the satisfying tastes and textures are very much present. Enjoy – I am away back out into the garden. There is always something to be done!

Sal Hanvey

A good splash of olive oil 2 small heads of broccoli 400g potatoes 1 medium onion 2-3 garlic cloves 600ml filtered water with Bouillon reduced-salt vegetable stock Sea salt White pepper ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 cup raw, unsalted cashews 2 ½ cups water Pinch of kosher salt

Method

• Heat some oil in a large pan and cook the onion, garlic and potato for three minutes. • Then add the Bouillon stock, nutmeg, salt and pepper, and simmer for two minutes. • Add the broccoli and cook for ten minutes. • Blend until smooth and then set aside. • Soak cashew nuts in a cup of water for 30 minutes. • Drain the cashews, then add the nuts, ½ cup water, and kosher salt to a blender. Depending on your own personal taste, you can add dates, lemon or flavoured nutritional yeast, for flavour. Blend on high speed until completely smooth – approx. 3 minutes. • Finally, stir the cashew creamy mixture into the broccoli soup mix.

Slieve Donard, Down

espite having mobility issues, Nikki Bradley manged to summit four of the country’s highest mountains. In 2003 Nikki was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma – a rare type of cancerous tumour that grows in the bones or the soft tissue around the bones, fast-forward to 2013 and she was told she would remain on crutches permanently. “The bone in my right hip became severely damaged due to radiotherapy,” the plucky 33-year-old Letterkenny lady begins. “I underwent two total right hip replacements in the space of six years, the first of which became infected, and the second didn’t work. Crutches were needed to help me get from A to B and eventually assisted in me getting from mountain A to mountain B.” Despite living in pain, Nikki was determined to push herself “far beyond what is expected of a crutch user”. She set up Fighting Fit For Wings; a campaign that is based around physical challenges to highlight the importance of exercise for rehabilitation, while simultaneously raising awareness for Ewing’s Sarcoma. For Nikki, signing up for the Four Peak Challenge “was the next natural step” and she climbed Carrauntoohil in Kerry, Croagh Patrick in Mayo, Slieve Donard in Down, and Mount Errigal in Donegal within 32-hours. “Honestly the summit was pretty standard, mainly due to the awful weather that day,” Nikki says. “It was wet and windy so we were keen to make our way down ASAP, however I was an emotional wreck by the time I reached the base as my friends and family had all gathered, with supportive home-made banners in tow. It was a surreal moment, one I will remember for a long time.

Carrauntoohil, Kerry

Aiming HIGH Donegal adventurer Nikki Bradley took on the four-peak challenge, conquering the country’s highest mountains – on crutches. She shares her story with NW BY CATRIONA DOHERTY “My incredible team; Ian Parke – who is also my amazing boyfriend, Iain Miller and Billy Fanneran were the three people who ensured I crossed the finish line. I have no doubt that without them, this challenge would not have happened. I am so lucky to know people who believe in me and my abilities and, better still, who want to come along on these mad adventures to support me. I count my blessings every day. I am one lucky lady.” To readers who are suffering from a physical issue that impacts their mobility, Nikki shares this advice: “If I can do it so can you. I am not some elite athlete who lives and breathes fitness. I’m simply a Donegal woman who likes to make the most of her crutches. “Mindset is unbelievably important, it blows my mind what the human body is capable of and I enjoy pushing it to the limit every now and again to see what might happen. “If you are going through a hard time I suggest you find someone who is in a similar boat but crushing it, and use them as your motivation. That is exactly what I did and the difference it made was life-changing.”

Changing your mindset will not happen overnight, but it can be done if you persevere, Nikki believes. “It requires a certain amount of brain training as your instinct will be to revert to your original way of thinking. If you tend to have a fixed mindset, your instinct may be to put obstacles in your way. For example; you want to improve your fitness and someone suggests you join your local gym. Your response is that you have too much on at the moment, your old knee injury might flare up, the gym is too expensive etc.. “A simple, yet effective way to slowly change your mindset is to ‘say yes’. Say yes to signing up to that exercise class and figure out the logistics later. Don’t overthink it. Do now, think later. It is the best piece of advice I could give anyone.”

This month Nikki plans to climb and abseil off the 100-metre Cnoc na Mara sea stack, Donegal. Follow her adventures on: @nikki_bradley_speaks on Instagram, @nikkibspeaks on Twitter, and fightingfitforewings on Facebook.

CHANTENAY CARROT, BULGAR WHEAT AND CHICKPEA SPICY SALAD

(serves 8)

Ingredients

1 tsp coriander seeds 1 tsp caraway seeds 1 tsp cumin seeds 1 pinch sea salt 2 tbsp maple syrup 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 500g Chantenay carrot, washed 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 4 tbsp pomegranate molasses 1 small garlic clove, crushed Salt and pepper 200g bulgar wheat 100 g salad leaves 150g cooked chickpeas A handful of black olives, stoned and sliced A handful of parsley, roughly chopped A small handful of hazelnuts, roughly chopped 1 red apple, cored and sliced

Method

• Heat the oven to 200º C. • To make the spice mix. Heat up a small pan and toast the coriander, caraway and cumin seeds until they are fragrant, shaking the pan frequently. Grind in a pestle and mortar with sea salt then add the maple syrup and olive oil. • Tip the carrots onto a baking tray and pour the spice mixture over them. Give them a shake around to coat them. • Bake the carrots for about 30 min, mixing them halfway through. • To make the dressing. Mix the olive oil, pomegranate molasses, garlic and seasoning together in a small bowl and set aside. • Cook the bulgar wheat according to the instructions on the packet and let it cool down. • Assemble the cooled bulgar wheat, salad leaves and chickpeas in a bowl and top with roasted carrots and olives. • Add parsley, chopped hazelnuts and apple slices and pour the dressing over. Thanks to Chantenay carrots for this recipe, for more visit: chantenay.co.uk/ recipes

PICNIC RECIPES Al fresco feasts to enjoy this summer

MUSHROOM AND BLUE CHEESE QUINOA BALLS SERVED WITH A CHICORY AND WATERCRESS SALAD (serves 4)

Quinoa balls ingredients 250g mushrooms 1 large onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves 250g cooked quinoa 150g gorgonzola (or another soft blue cheese) 1 small bunch parsley 50g walnuts 50g plain flour (or gluten-free alternative)

Salad ingredients 2 red chicory, cut into wedges lengthways 150g watercress 150g rocket 2 handfuls walnuts, roughly chopped 2 tbsp red wine vinegar 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp honey

Method • Heat a tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan, then add the onions and cook until soft – for about 10 mins. • Put the mushrooms into a food processor and whiz until finely chopped. Add these to the pan with the mushrooms and garlic and cook for 10 mins. Season to taste. • Whizz the walnuts and parsley in the food processor. Add the cooked mushroom mix, blue cheese and quinoa, and whizz to combine well (you want the mix to be broken down enough to shape into balls easily). • Check that the mix is well seasoned before shaping it into balls and rolling in flour. • Heat a little oil in a frying pan. Add the balls and fry for 5 to 6 minutes until golden on all sides. • Mix the salad ingredients together in a bowl, dress, and serve with the cooked quinoa balls. Thanks to: www.justaddmushrooms.com for this receipe.

LEMON PEPPER VEGAN FISH TACOS (serves 2)

Ingredients 2 Quorn breaded fishless fillets 150g pineapple, diced 25g red onion, diced 1 fresh jalapeno chilli, seeds removed and diced 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander 2 tbsp lime juice ¼ tsp ground cumin ¼ tsp chilli powder Salt and pepper 60g finely shredded red cabbage 4 corn tortillas, warmed Lime wedges, for serving

Method • Prepare the Quorn fishless breaded fillets with a lemon and pepper breadcrumb according to package directions. • Meanwhile, toss together the pineapple, red onion, jalapeno, coriander, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes for the flavours to marry. • Slice each fillet into 6 strips and serve with the pineapple salsa and cabbage in the tortillas, with lime wedges for squeezing. If you prefer, substitute pineapple with mango. Add avocado slices or guacamole to the tacos if desired. Thanks to Quorn for this recipe, for more visit: www.quorn.co.uk/recipes

ESCAPE

Novice Monks in Thailand

Avani+Samui

Avani+ Riverside Bangkok

never ‘did’ Thailand as a backpacker. Actually, my backpacking never took me much further than Spain. Which means that arriving in Bangkok for the first time is as a ‘luxury traveller’, complete with curated itinerary and appropriate luggage, rather than three sarongs and sketchy directions to the Khao San Road. I am alone among my travelling companions in not having stories to tell of grotty hostels and full-moon parties, but I am also totally fresh to the experience. I left home 22 hours and many time zones ago – that Bangkok airport reminds me strongly of the early scenes in Bladerunner. It is close to midnight, there is that floating feeling that comes with jetlag, a dense, humid heat, people eating noodles and announcements in an Asian language I do not understand. Already, I love it. We arrive at the Avani+ Riverside hotel and enter a crisp, elegant urban oasis. The hotel is tall and coolly contemporary, perched on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. From the restaurant and rooftop bar (and indeed the infinity pool), the city is spread out below; a mix of traditional, pointy roofs and sleek skyscrapers rising up among them. The next morning, I’m up and swimming in the infinity pool early enough that the sun is still low and apricot-coloured. Already, it’s hot. Properly hot. After breakfast, which majors on the kinds of fresh fruit we can only dream about at home, we take a trip around the city by river and canal, in a low-slung, brightly painted traditional Thai boat, accompanied by a knowledgeable hotel guide who calls

Avani+Samui

The land of smiles Forget backpacking, here’s how to experience Thailand as a ‘luxury traveller’ BY EMILY HOURICAN himself ‘Diamond Geezer’. This turns out to be an excellent way to sightsee, because we get all of Bangkok life as we glide by. There are homes, floating markets, royal palaces, colonial outposts, industrial buildings and temples. The canals are busy – acting as road, shop and even playground: we watch kids, some tiny, diving in from banks, disappearing under water then popping up again, laughing. We stop for sights of significance along the way, including the temple Wat Rajaorasaram Rajawaravihara. It is, as is the way of Thai temples, very lavish, with plenty of gold and ornate marble. Monks in saffron robes move about their business, which is considerable – a novice must pass through nine levels of study before he is ordained. Buddha himself is reclining, leaning on one arm and looking very pleased with something. Perhaps his own impressive size - 20m long and entirely covered in gold leaf. He has a scattering of pillows at his feet.

Apparently, if you are beset by bad dreams, you bring your pillow to Buddha and he takes the dreams away. For lunch, we tie the boat up at a small covered market – although we’re hours too late for any proper commercial activity, which happens at dawn – and eat at a small restaurant. Diamond Geezer orders refreshing, chilled coconut water, brought to us in half a green coconut, then a variety of local dishes which were delicious. A kind of chicken satay on skewers, two types of noodles, a salad with shredded cabbage, peanuts and lots of chilli. Then it’s back to the hotel for a lounge around the infinity pool in the late afternoon sun, followed by dinner at the Skyline Restaurant – local Thai food and Western fare sit easily side by side, served in an abundant buffet style so that it’s easy to try anything you like the look of – and a drink at Seen, the rooftop bar.

Continued on 56 ➤

Angthong national marine park, Koh Samui

Bangkok Thailand This is very sophisticated and busy, clearly something of a hot-spot. But I’ve never seen the Khao San Road, Mecca to backpackers, and don’t know when, if ever, I will next be in Bangkok. I beg my companions to accompany me for a quick peek, and bless them, they do. The Khao San Road is just what it should be – noisy, dirty, crowded, seedy, shabby, and boozy. There are street vendors with soy-roasted scorpions on sticks and others with hand woven wrist-bands carrying the filthiest slogans I’ve ever seen (no, I’m not giving examples…). It is perfect. Soon, we are back at the Avani+ Riverside, tucked

up between crisp white sheets for an early morning start to Koh Samui, the second largest of Thailand’s many islands. The internal flight takes just over an hour, and the airport transfer takes another hour, so that it is afternoon by the time we reach the paradise that is the Avani+ Samui, and we are in the perfect frame of mind for beachside relaxation and low-key glamour. The resort is spacious, set right on the beach, with dense, mountainous rainforest rising up on either side, and cobalt-blue sea in front. So wonderfully remote is the resort that there is no competition from cars or crowds for the sound of birdsong. Rooms are arranged villa-style so that each is its own compound, complete with individual private pool, as well as the larger, communal pool. The restaurant is beachfront and manages to be both relaxed and elegant. Food is Thai, obviously, but also, should you tire of that, there are plenty of other options. Beyond it, traditional Thai fishing boats bob alongside sleek yachts in a sea that is largely tide-less. That night we dine on the beach at tables set up for this purpose, and after dinner, watch a skilful, spectacular fire show. Four men with long ropes and flaming ends, weave gracefully in an out of each other like duelling dragons or archangels. A boat trip out to some of the 44 islands which make up the Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park takes in a bit of snorkelling – silver and blue fish dart about in crystalclear water – and a packed lunch on Dam island. Later we stop at Madsum island, which is tiny and has a strip of white-sand beach, aquamarine sea and a bar.

Back on land in Koh Samui there are roadside fruit stalls, shrines to Buddha, bars ranging from shabby to sleek, and lots of motorbike shops. There are markets and small trucks with tannoys driving around, loudly promoting Thai boxing. It is also clearly well into its second or even third wave of tourism. The hipsters have arrived. Alongside the traditional foodstalls are mushrooming up the kind of place that offers single estate cold-brew coffee in cute tin mugs, turmeric smoothies or lemongrass juice served in a bowl woven from palm leaves. Island life has a relaxed almost lazy pace, and we quickly fall into a routine of swimming and lounging in the glorious sun. Everywhere we turn, there are smiling attempts to make our lives, our stay, even more blissful than it is. On our final day, we prepare for departure with some early morning yoga by the pool. We follow, to the best of our ability. As we rest in our final stretch – child’s pose – the teacher tells us “Listen to your inner voice”. I think my inner voice may be telling me I need to do more of this.

Emily stayed at the Avani+ Riverside Bangkok: www.avanihotels.com/en/ riverside-bangkok and the Avani+Samui: www.avanihotels.com/en/samui. She flew from Dublin to London with Aer Lingus, and London to Bangkok via Dubai with Emirates, and Bangkok to Koh Samui with Bangkok Airways.

Have you ever walked the Derry walls? If not put it on your to-do list this summer. A walking excursion with Martin McCrossan City Tours will allow you to discover their rich history. In addition to walking the walls, which date back to 1613, the tour will also include a visit to St Columb’s Cathedral Chapter House Museum which houses various artefacts from the Siege of Derry, the original locks from the four gates, the original birth, death and marriage records dating back to the 1600s, and much more. The Hop-On Hop-Off bus does a more extensive tour of the city with a stop in the Diamond quiet near the walls.

The Guildhall is an impressive building, located just outside of the city walls in Guildhall Square. The red sandstone building is of neo-gothic architecture with Tudor overtones. It houses one of the country’s largest collection of stained-glass windows, ornate ceilings, oak panelling and the wonderful concert organ which dominates the stage of the main hall. Learn from the exhibition how the plantation of Ulster shaped our history. Outside, the walled city market takes place on the first Saturday of each month.

You can combine a trip to the Guildhall with a visit to the nearby Tower Museum – home to the Story of Derry and an Armada shipwreck La Trinidad Valencera. There can be found the only city centre open-air viewing facility with wonderful views over the city and the Foyle.

The Derry Peace Bridge footbridge connects Ebrington Square in the Waterside with the city side. Enjoy a scenic walk over the river on a summer’s day.

DID YOU KNOW

Derry/Londonderry is the second city in Northern Ireland. The name Derry comes from the old Irish ‘Doire’ meaning oak grove. In 1613 when the city was granted a royal charter by James 1, it was prefixed by ‘London’ to reflect the funding of it’s construction by the London Guilds.

Summer in the maiden city

8 MUST-VISITS BY RITA DOHERTY

Seats are perfectly placed so you can have a leisurely rest by the flow of the river. Ebrington Square, once home to the British army, is now a beautiful square home to many events. On Saturday July 6th from 4.30pm to 11pm the square hosts the Country Comes to City music festival.

St Columb’s Park, close to Ebrington Square, comprises of allotment spaces running tracks, tennis courts, and hockey and running pitches. There is a greenway between the bridges taking you out to Foyle Bridge about 4km away. At the heart of the park is St Columb’s Park House which dates back to the 1770s, you can stop at their café and sample fresh food cooked to order.

The Millennium Forum Theatre and Conference Centre has a seating capacity of over 1000. It hosts all kinds of music, comedy and children’s events. For show details, see: www.milleniumforum.co.uk

For shoppers the city centre has two centres; the Foyleside and the Richmond Centre, with a wide array of well-known high street brands. The Craft Village specialises in local crafts and offers unique gifts for a special occasion, and often hosts live music. Independent Derry supports over 60

small business over the city to encourage local shopping including cafes, arts and crafts, hair and beauty and others. You can buy an Independent Derry card for £15, which offers discounts at many shops, eateries, restaurants, lifestyle businesses and more. For details visit: www.independentderry.co.uk There are a number of boutiques all within walking distance of the centre. In the Waterside there are shopping centres in Lisnagelvin and the Crescent Link.

Dining out is a necessary and enjoyable part of visiting any city. Derry/ Londonderry has some amazing restaurants and traditional pub lunches. Try Browns in town or Browns Bonds Hill, Soda and Starch the Craft Village, Quaywest and Timber Quay to name but a few. My favourite is Fitzroys beside Foyleside where the food is mouth-watering, the service fast, and a visit doesn’t take too much time out of your shopping expedition. Lastly when you have experienced all the delights of Derry/Londonderry why not stay overnight and savour the beauty of Inishowen the following day. Drive 50km to sightsee in Malin Head Ireland’s most northerly point, or play golf in Ballyliffin, Redcastle or Buncrana.

A to Zakynthos Can you find the real Greek Islands on a package holiday?

BY ISABEL CONWAY

hequered tablecloths flap in a gentle breeze under the shade of a simple tavern terrace. A late afternoon sun drips like golden syrup slowly into the shimmering

Ionian Sea. It’s taken just ten minutes of searching to stumble on the perfect sunset view at Ladofanaro, a restaurant overlooking the beach at Amboula. It doesn’t take much longer for the freshest of sardines, grilled on a barbecue and lightly coated in sea salt, together with a salad of plump black olives, ripe tomatoes and speckled with crumbly feta, to arrive. Can life get any better? Then along comes a handsome, flirtatious waiter. He pours the locallyproduced nectar, a dry white wine called Novita, which costs just €2 a glass. My delicious, solitary dinner carries a €15 bill. I’m on Zakynthos, a Greek Ionian island also known by its Italian name of Zante. It’s been on my radar since the island-hopping days of my youth. Back then, I glimpsed this long, jagged coastline from the deck of a ferry that had left Corfu, before calling at two of her neighbours, Lefkada and Kefalonia, to pick up passengers and cargo. Now, I’m back for a closer look. Zakynthos is busy, so you need to travel away from package-holiday hubs like Laganas in the south to get a true feel for it. Head north of the capital Zakynthos, east or west along the coast, and you’re in for a treat of secret coves and beaches, hidden behind pine forests. A sleepy interior of picturesque hamlets, wedding cake

monasteries and wild countryside are light years from the inflatable unicorns and nonstop TV football matches of the resorts. My first stop is Hotel Lesante Blu in the north-eastern village of Tragaki, where I spend a couple of nights. It’s an adultsonly resort from the ‘Leading Hotels of the World’ collection of independent luxury hotels, and seems to attract mainly German, Scandinavian, Russian and Chinese guests. The set-up blends into the landscape with its own private beach. No sooner have I collapsed on to a comfy beach bed than a waiter arrives with cool iced-water... and a pricey cocktail menu. After a lazy swim, I look forward to high-end Greek cuisine, but hey… it’s an international hotel, and tonight an Italian buffet is laid out. Tomorrow the menu will move to Thailand, and the day after, who knows? Greece is not in the mix anytime soon, though I do see a six-course lobster menu at €130pp. Another popular in-house extra is Greek wine tasting, also pricey at €40, but at least offering a selection of nine wines. As well as driving remote valleys and hairpin bends, my Zakynthos bucket list includes two of the island’s most-

Navagio beach with shipwreck on Zakynthos island toted attractions; The Blue Caves and Shipwreck Bay. Skipper Dionysis Potamitis has promised to take us out to view the iconic caves; an early morning is bathed in brilliant blue skies, but the sea has an ominous swell. Arriving at his tiny mooring point at the bottom of a cliff, I find him throwing his arms up: “No trip to Blue Caves, Port Authority say dangerous to leave!” Frustratingly, we can only look down, watching the big ‘booze cruise’ boats that have come up from Zakynthos port, loaded with tourists. Shipwreck (Navagio) Bay is probably the island’s most famous sight. Reached via a narrow winding path snaking down steep terrain, walkers need to swop flipflops for sensible shoes/sneakers to avoid

Zaante town, Zakinthos

Take Three: INSIDER TIPS

A sea turtle, Zakynthos

EAT

Family-run Taverna Paliomylos literally hangs over the village of Loucha. Try the slow-cooked lamb with feta and potatoes, or traditional moussaka.

Lots of tourists take the boat trip from Lithakia or Keri to Marathonisi, nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles, but familiarise yourself with the environmental issues first. Drop by Therianos Organic farm, Kallithea village, for olive oil and wine tastings, or sign up for a yoga session in their gardens. See other eco listings on: ecozakynthos.com

WHERE TO STAY

Seven nights at the five-star Lesante Blu start from €1,556pp, including flights. TUI also has a week all-inclusive at the Aqua Bay Suites with unlimited access to the onsite waterpark at Tsilivi, from €1,000pps. You will need a hire car (from €30 daily) to get around the island.

WHAT TO PACK

Holiday essentials like sun hats, flippers, beach cover-ups etc. are cheap in Greece, and you save on luggage space as well as helping small, local shopkeepers. Pack an umbrella, too - the Ionian Islands hold their legendary green fertile hue for a reason.

slipping on the descent. The wrecked ship MV Panagiotis sits where she ran aground in the small cove, allegedly while on a cigarette-smuggling mission from Turkey. Most holidaymakers view her from the cliffs above, but take care here too… there have been tragic accidents involving tourists taking selfies. As well as exploring the interior, I

take time out to visit Zakynthos town, the island’s capital and port, which was devastated by an earthquake in 1953. Sensitively reconstructed, its layout is faithfully preserved in the imposing squares and public buildings. In the town’s NeoByzantine museum, I admire icons and artworks salvaged from the earthquake, and hear guide Panayiotis Klavianos share stories about another momentous event, the German invasion during World War II. “The Nazis demanded that our mayor and archbishop hand over the names and addresses of all Jews on our island within 24 hours,” he says. “The archbishop spoke the language, so he understood what the fate of the Jews would be. When the

Germans returned, they were given just two names and addresses, those of the mayor and the archbishop. People say it was our finest hour.” Many more such stories are woven into the island’s folklore – Zakynthos is rich in memories, and anyone who takes time to search will find them. But you do need to take that time, striking out past the island’s sun-holiday resorts. Long after dusk falls, I sit in another tavern, Taverna Paliomylos near Loucha, spellbound. The sea dims to a mysterious murky indigo and a lazy cat comes out to stretch in splendour beneath my tavern table. There isn’t a better image to bring the curtain down.

aving heard all good things about Farnham Estate Golf Resort & Spa, Cavan, from family and friends who have been there, the hotel has been on my to-visit list for a couple of years. I spent a night at Farnham Estate this month and it exceeded all expectations. The spa is adults only, and facilities include a thermal suite with hot and cold experiences, an aroma steam bath, salt inhalation room, Finnish sauna, relaxation zones, ice fountain, and an infinity swimming and hydrotherapy pool. Heated indoor and outdoor pools are connected via a sliding glass door. Outside you can soothe your back and shoulder muscles under the spray of water jets, or have a leisurely swim amidst the scenic surrounds of Cavan countryside. Farnham Estate house is 400 years old and nods to the past are evident throughout the property, from the period décor to the wall-art timeline featuring old photos of the former owners dressed in fashion from times gone by. Our room the Bedell Suite was elegant, luxurious and comfortable. The suite had a separate living area to relax in – with furnishings including an ornate gold framed painting of an ostrich, a buttoned leather sofa, and a brass peacock-feather fireguard; the overall look was unique, quirky and created the impression of staying somewhere that’s one-of-a-kind. I enjoyed a leisurely soak in the deep free-standing bath that overlooked the lush greenery below, before dinner. There are six dining options to choose from; The Cedar Rooms restaurant,

REVIEW

Farnham Estate Golf Resort & Spa BY CATRIONA DOHERTY

Maxwells Grill Room, Wine Goose Cellar Bar for light bites, Afternoon Tea served in the drawing room, the popular Lobby Bar, and Café Vista where spa guests can relax in their robes and dine on healthy cuisine. We opted for the five-course set dinner menu at The Cedar Rooms, which costs €55 per person. Despite visiting this in-demand restaurant on a Saturday night, the venue felt relaxed and unhurried. The Cedar Rooms chefs pride themselves on using locally-sourced suppliers, who are detailed in the menu. I ordered the Pan Seared Scallops with Black Pudding Croquette, Sauce Gribiche, Chervil Gel and Bread Tuile to start,

followed by the Irish Nori Bread Soufflé with Curried Puy Lentils, Walnut Crumble, Vichyssoise, Pickled Shallots, and a dessert of Spring Eton Mess – all of which was delicious. We were also served homemade bread rolls, a sorbet, and tea and coffee with petit fours, so it was quite the feast. In addition to the plush bedroom and ten-out-of-ten meal, other highlights of my stay included a forest walk, and a spa treatment – the blissful ESPA Natural Face Lift Facial; a new luxury treatment to detoxify, invigorate and sculpt the skin. Farnham Estate has produced a booklet of their nature trails, with information on 11km of walkways through the estate which has its own ancient woodland and lake. I chose the Forest Bathing Walk after reading: ‘Forest bathing is the healing Japanese way of Shinrin-yoku. The idea is simple: if a person visits a natural area and walks in a relaxed way there are calming, rejuvenating and restorative benefits to be achieved’. The pre-checkout stroll through the forest was peaceful and utterly relaxing, I left Farnham Estate with the feeling of having discovered somewhere very special.

There is a range of options to suit different budgets, with 146 rooms and twelve suites to choose from. For information on Farnham Estate visit: www.farnhamestate. ie or call: 049 437 7700.

LET’S DRINK TO…

Ashford Castle

BY PAULA GRACEY

ou don’t have to be on the Rich List to enjoy adorable and affordable Ashford Castle. There’s so much to do there… golf, of course, fishing, falconry, horse riding, lake cruising, the whole shooting gallery, quite literally. And for old movies buffs, the little village of Cong on the Castle’s doorstep is a living museum, celebrating its setting for the famed 1950s Quiet Man epic, starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. As you’d expect for such a classy place, the food and drink experience is awesome. I could live in their wine cellar! With so many dining options to choose from, we took up a recommendation on day one to sample Cullen’s at the Cottage in the grounds of the castle and my first taste of Bouchard Finlayson wines. This boutique winery was established in 1989 in Walker Bay in the valley of Hemel-en-Aarde in South Africa. They are dedicated to making Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc of outstanding quality, and I can certainly vouch for that. With my prawn and burnt orange salad to start and then lobster – absolutely off the chart deliciousness – we were served the Bouchard Finlayson Walker Bay Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. The Sauvignon has lovely citrus fruit aromas with some gooseberry and a slight herbaceous notes and those citrus notes carry on through to the palate with a lovely lingering finish. Then the Pinot Noir, pale and delicate with floral aromas and on the palate, lots of strawberry and plum flavours along with delicious spicy cherry notes all of which are enhanced by time in French oak barrels. Day two saw us tackle a tasting menu in Wilde’s at the Lodge – what a fantastic culinary experience. Seven courses of sumptuous food, complemented perfectly by the Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay and Galpin Peak Pinot Noir. The Chardonnay is made like a classic French Burgundy, fermented in French oak barrels, which adds a wonderful richness, yet with more fruit than Old World styles. The Galpin Peak has all the hallmarks of a good burgundy, full of ripe plums and dark cherry aromas and flavours as well as some black pepper and vanilla and has a lovely long finish. The good news is, should you never visit Ashford Castle (but you really should), these fabulous wines are available from many online stockists and good independents off licences, a taste of the Rich List for as little as £15.

Wine Recommendation from Rebecca Robb: Pecorino Vellodoro

uly, named after the birth month of that infamous Roman Julius Caesar, is here in all her splendour! It’s time to throw off the weeds of Winter and emerge into the sun like a butterfly breaking out from its cocoon. It’s time for al fresco dining, BBQ, late lazy nights and best of all, festivals! Our wine of the month hails from the Adriatic coast in Italy, and incidentally the pretty little town of Pescara on this coastline hosts the “ Feast Sant Andrea” on the last Sunday of July. An impressive fleet of fishing boats glide through the sparkling clear waters to the delight of locals and visitors alike. The “terazza “ are packed full of guests enjoying the spectacle, eating sumptuous seafood washed down with luscious local wine. One such wine from this area is the elegant Pecorino Vellodoro from the Marche region of Italy. Translating as “little sheep”, this grape is native to the Adriatic. The Umani Ronchi vineyard overlooks the grand Sasso mountain, and it is thought that the local flocks of sheep so loved snacking on this sweet grape as they were herded down the mountain, that the grape was named for them! Hand picking of the grapes in September preserves acidity and gentle pressing followed by fermentation in stainless steel, yields a wine of finesse and character. The winery practices resting the wine on its “lees” for four months, which greatly adds to its fruit appeal. Straw yellow in the glass excites the drinker immediately, and the taster is thrilled by a nose of white blossom flowers, acaia, jasmine and an indulgence of honey in the background. Abundance of sweet, ripe summer fruit is apparent on the palate with green apple, pear, yellow plum and pineapple lovingly intertwined. Hard to believe that had it not been for one visionary individual, we may not have the pleasure in the present day to imbibe this alluring Adriatic gem. The Pecorino grape all but went extinct in Italy due to widespread planting of Trebbiano, but thankfully in the 1980S a local producer discovered forgotten vines in a neglected vineyard and nursed them back to strength. Bravo our unnamed hero! To accompany our Pecorino, we have chosen chefs wonderful Pan seared Seabass with saffron potato, braised fennel and asparagus spears. Enjoy and ciao until next issue.

PAN SEARED SEABASS, SAFFRON POTATOES, BRAISED FENNEL & RED ONION, ASPARAGUS SPEARS Ingredients: • 6 100g - 140g Seabass fillets • 400g baby potatoes (sliced at top & bottom) • 1 head fennel finely sliced • 1 medium red onion finely sliced • 7 asparagus spears • 100g butter • Pinch of saffron • Vegetable stock cube • 800ml boiling water

Method 1. Sauté the potatoes on both sides until a nice golden-brown colour. 2. Sauté the onion & fennel. 3. Place onion, fennel & potatoes into a casserole dish, add butter. 4. Make vegetable stock with boiling water, vegetable stock cube & saffron. 5. Pour over potatoes and slow cook in oven for 30-40 minutes until potatoes are cooked & sauce has thickened. 6. Season fish then pan sear until goldenbrown and turn for 1 minute to finish. 7. Place potatoes and vegetable ragu on plate and top with seared seabass.

THE SOCIAL 10

NW’s round up of this month’s most-happening events The first ever Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Food Festival takes place on 5th-7th July. Enjoy a day out exploring 100 acres of beautiful gardens, and pick up some fabulous locally-made food and drinks. Polish up your culinary skills at one of the live cooking demos led by celebrity chefs. Adult admission costs from £13.90, with various ticket options available.

Derek Ryan The Country Comes To City music festival takes place in Ebrington, Derry/ Londonderry on Saturday 6th July. Acts include country legends Derek Ryan, Mike Denver and Johnny Brady. Tickets cost £20 and are available from the Millennium Forum and other outlets.

The Walled City Market takes place on Saturday 6th July from 11am-5pm at the Guildhall Square, Derry/Londonderry, offering visitors a family-friendly shopping experience, with a wide selection of speciality foods and handcrafted products on offer. Tickle your taste buds with homemade jams, chutneys and sauces, artisan breads and cakes, and a range of organic meats and sweet treats.

Newcastle Artisan Market takes place on the first Saturday of every month, so head to this County Down seaside town on 6th July for the next one. Local artisans will be selling a rage of handmade arts and crafts, and speciality cuisine. Admission is free and event runs from 10am-2pm on the Central Promenade.

The annual Dalriada Festival returns to Glenarm Castle on 13th-14th July. Supported by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, this year’s programme features live music from top UK artists from the 90s to the present day, fine food and drink, and a wide range of activities for kid including fun with Paw Patrol. Acts include Peter Andre, Fleur East, Samantha Harvey, Atomic Kitten, D:Ream, East 17, Republica and Phats & Small, and performances from local musicians.

The 148th Open will be played at Royal Portrush from 14th-21st July, marking a historic return to Northern Ireland for golf’s original and most international golf championship. Whether they have tickets or not, golf fans from throughout Ireland and around the world are expected to descend upon the town of Portrush to watch the world’s greatest golfers compete for the iconic Claret Jug.

Belfast Pride 2019 will run for ten actionpacked days from 26th July-4th August, with Pride Day taking place on 3rd August. Come Out for Change is this year’s theme. For more details on the events taking place in a variety of locations across the city, see: www.belfastpride.com

Get back to nature with a Mindful Yoga Morning in the Glens of Antrim on Saturday 27th July. The session begins with a gentle Hatha yoga class at the Laragh Lodge Restaurant, Ballymena. Following refreshments, attendees go on a mindful walk through the forest park before stopping for a meditation session in the heart of the woodlands. Tickets cost £40, for details call: 075 1839 1883.

Enjoy a flavour of the Wild Atlantic Way at the Mary from Dungloe International Arts Festival on 27th July-5th August. Now in its 52nd year, this festival attracts visitors from all over the world to experience the best of Donegal through events focused on traditions, heritage and culture. The line-up includes live music acts, a street food event, demonstrations of traditional crafts, and children’s events.

Join Nine Glens Walking Tours for a Ramble on Rathlin. Trips run every Saturday and Sunday until September. A local guide and historian will lead you on a short walk discovering the island’s history, heritage and industry. The gentle circular walk lasts 1.5 hours. Tours cost £10, not including the ferry ticket. For details, visit: www.nineglenswalkingtours.co.uk

Sea 2 Sky

When: Friday 19th July Distance: 10k walk, 5k and 10k race Entry fee: From £15 to £22 The 8th Annual Sea 2 Sky race in Newcastle, County Down, features 5k and 10k routes over road and track. Starting on the promenade in the seaside town of Newcastle, runners ascend through the foothills of the Mournes. There is a gradual climb to the route, but you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with stunning views over Newcastle and beyond.

Newry and Mourne Women’s Mini Marathon

When: Sunday 4th August Distance: 10k Entry fee: £22.50 An event brought to you by 26 Extreme, this is a 10K run for women designed by women. The route takes you into the beautiful countryside around Newry and the Mournes, running on tarmac and on on an ever-decreasing gradient. The start point is located between Rostrevor and Hilltown, and the race finishes in Kilbroney Park. Participants can look forward to a finisher’s medal and Prosecco.

Hillsborough Castle Running Festival

When: Sunday 18th August Distance: 5k, 10k and a half marathon Entry fee: From £10 to £24 This is an all-new running festival to try this summer. The run starts and finishes within the beautiful grounds of the restored Hillsborough Castle, before heading out to the surrounding rural roads of the County Down village. The route takes in local

Summer RUNS There are lots of exciting running events taking place across Northern Ireland this summer. With mixed routes and distances through villages, mountains and towns - there is something to suit all tastes and abilities BY VICTORIA EVANS historic attractions such as Hillsborough Fort and Lake.

Armagh City Marathon

When: Sunday 25th August Distance: 10k, half marathon, full marathon, relay, and a BACK2BACK marathon Entry fee: From £18 to £60 The Armagh City festival of running, taking place on August bank holiday weekend is an ideal end to the summer. Race HQ will be located in the Armagh Cricket Club, runners can collect their race packs there on the morning of the marathon.

Fields of Life Stormont

When: Saturday 31st August Distance: 1k, 5k and 10k Entry fee: From £6-£16 This running event is now in its fourth year. Hundreds have previously joined

at Stormont Estate to raise vital funds to provide fresh water for marginalised villages in East Africa. There are options for all abilities and it’s set to be a familyfriendly affair.

Last One Standing Summer Race

When: Saturday 31st August Distance: A 4.2 mile loop ran continuously Entry fee: £75 This Enniskillen event is definitely not for the faint-hearted. The course is a 4.2 mile loop, runners have one hour to complete the first loop, and must be at the starting line ready to go again after the allocated 60-minute timeframe. Any runner who has not finished their loop within the time limit, will not be allowed to continue. This continues until there is only one runner on the course and this person will be the Last One Standing.

The Intruder

Movie roundup

James Oliver’s selection of new films coming to a cinema near you this month Midsommar

A girlfriend joins her partner and his friends on a trip to a midsummer festival in a remote Swedish village. What starts off as a carefree holiday takes a sinister turn when the locals invite their guests to take part in festivities. Release date: 7th July Starring: Florence Pugh and Will Poulter

The Dead Don’t Die

An all-star cast leads the way in this comedy

that sees small town police dealing with the unexpected when bodies start rising from the ground. A war between the living and the dead ensues. Release date: 12th July Starring: Adam Driver, Bill Murray, Selena Gomez and Tilda Swinton

Only You

Elena and Jake meet by chance on New Year’s Eve when they hail the same cab. But instead of going their separate ways

after a shared ride, they start a passionate relationship. Falling in love was the easy part, but can they remain in love when life doesn’t give them everything they had hoped for? Release date: 12th July Starring: Josh O’Connor and Laia Costa

The Intruder

A young couple think they’ve purchased the property of their dreams in Napa Valley. They begin to realise the previous owner is having an unnervingly hard time of letting the property go, and he slowly beings to infiltrate their lives. Release date: 12th July Starring: Dennis Quaid and Michael Ealy

The Lion King

Following the success of remakes Dumbo and Aladdin this year, comes The Lion King. This Disney timeless classic sees a young lion cub having to fend for himself before returning home when he’s of age to reclaim his rightful place as king of the animal kingdom. Release date: 19th July Starring: James Earl Jones, Beyonce Knowles Carter and Donald Glover

One Upon A Time in Hollywood

Quentin Tarantino’s ninth feature film is a story that takes place in Los Angeles in 1969. Rick Dalton former star of a western TV series, and his stunt double Cliff Booth are struggling to make it big in Hollywood. But Rick has a very famous next door neighbour who might be able to help. Release date: 26th July Starring: Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, Margot Robbie and Al Pacino

The Dead Don’t Die

For more movie review and news from James Oliver see: @jamesoliverfil1

LIVING

Credit: Sansa Wall Art by Michael Murphy Home Furnishing

THE SATURATED COLOUR WALL

Saturating your entire room wall to wall, floor to ceiling (including woodwork and doors) in a single shade is one of the most visually transformative things you can do to a space without actually knocking down walls. It works equally well in period properties as it does in new homes and can enhance a room’s proportions, highlight architectural details or add instant character where there is none. Be inspired by this living room to give your home a maxed-out colour boost using Crown ‘Secret Escape’ Feature Wall Paint, £14.50 for 1.25L.

YOU’RE MY WONDER WALL

Looking to pretty up plain walls? Be inspired by these top trends and get creative with paint, paper and picture frames BY RÓISÍN CARABINE

THE PHOTO MURAL WALL

More impactful than paint and even better than paper at personalising your space, when it comes to making a big surface statement, wall murals are where it’s at. Create a show-stopping feature wall with a floor-to-ceiling photorealistic image of a seascape or forest, an oversized version of a famous artwork, abstract geometric pattern or your own unique made-to-measure design. WallSauce.com has a myriad of on-trend images to choose from. We’re loving this ‘Antwerp Belgian’ wall mural by Leonid Afremov, from £32 a square metre.

THE WRAP AROUND GALLERY WALL

Take the gallery wall trend to the next level by wrapping pictures and prints around a corner. For a cohesive look choose frames in the same colour and style or arrange by theme. Create your own instant art corner with Ikea’s Knoppäng frames with posters available in a set of eight for £29.

THE COLOUR BLOCKED WALL

The trend for using blocks of colour to make a design impact is back with a bang this year. Think daring colour combos and punchy patterns. Rock the block look to define zones in an open plan space, highlight an architectural detail or makeover a featureless room. This simple bedroom has been transformed with a block of bold blue that stretches from behind the bed all the way up to the ceiling using Frogtape and GoodHome Walls & Ceilings Marseille emulsion paint, £12 for 2.5L at B&Q.

THE STATEMENT PAPERED CEILING

Once used only to hide imperfections, wallpaper on the ceiling is now officially a thing. Make a statement of your fifth wall with a photo mural, patterned wallpaper or bold paint colour. We love the impact of having a punchy print overhead, particularly in the bedroom where it can be fully appreciated. Dream up your next big adventure while staring at this Antique World Map Mural by Lovell Johns, from £32 a square metre at Wallsauce.com

THE TEXTURED TILE WALL

Thought textured tiles were a fad? Not in our books. From rough, hewn wood finishes to raised striations and three dimensional geometric designs we can’t get enough of these touchy feely surface showstoppers. Use them to liven up a lowly chimney breast, create a striking feature wall or as a statement splashback. A little texture goes a long way. This simple kitchen island has been transformed into a stunning focal point with 3D Offset Hexagon Tiles in gold from £134 a square metre at Bakedtiles.co.uk

THE VERTICAL LIVING WALL

Bring bland walls to life – literally – and improve your health and indoor air at the same time with a lush and leafy living wall. It’s this year’s hottest growing trend. Take inspiration from this mobile wall on wheels that can be moved from room to room and create your own vertical wall garden using living wall planters from Dobbies Garden Centre (from £9.99).

THE PANELLED WALL

Say goodbye to the 70s shiny knotty pine stereotype and hello to your home’s newest design crush. Wood panelling is this year’s go-to wall decoration. Use it to dramatically alter the proportions of your living room, as an alternative to tiles in the bathroom or to clad the ceiling. Go for a custom design or create your own using beaded frames, decorative moulding or timber strips laid directly onto plaster in a grid pattern a la this charcoal grey living room (featuring the Aspen Content by Terence Conran 3-seater sofa from £2,095 at Contentbyterenceconran.com) Check out YouTube for ‘how to’ tutorials.

THE HALF-PAINTED WALL

The new two-tone wall treatment that’s all over Pinterest is an update on an old one, minus the dado rail. Use Frogtape to split walls perfectly in half horizontally and paint the lower walls in a subtle shade for an understated look or play about with proportions by opting for a darker shade on top. This home office, painted in Dulux Violet Dream, Garden Grey and Spiced Honey cleverly avoids any visual break in the design by incorporating the door and skirting into the scheme.

“This hallway storage was made by my husband. It’s perfect for shoes and school bags.”

A family home in Galgorm Photography by Michael Bradley

“There is a rustic feel to the living room and I love how the door open into the playroom.”

“This candle adds a little country charm.”

“I love how the light comes through this window in the morning.”

avid and Laura Williamson moved into their Ballymena home three years ago, which they share with their sevenyear-old Jake, Alfie who is five, and Gracie who is

coming two. “We previously lived in an apartment that was really spacious, but with two boys at the time who loved being outside we needed a garden,” Laura says. “Our new garden isn’t massive, but it’s bigger that some of the new builds we looked at. We also loved how you

could walk right round the house and each room opened into the next. Having an extra room downstairs meant we were able to have a downstairs playroom which has been great for our family.” The homeowner likes to mix and match home décor styles. “I would say our home is probably more Scandi style with industrial and contemporary touches. When we moved in I had a minimalist look in mind, but as we are a family of five that didn’t work for us.” Laura’s favourite room is the bathroom:

“We redecorated it on a budget and did a lot of the work ourselves. We still have some changes to make but I love to fill a bubble bath and relax in there with a cup of tea when the kids go to bed. I also love the kitchen, it is probably the room we changed the most. After we moved in we completely renovated it.”

For more from Laura see: @lauras_little_ loves on Instagram.

“We recently redecorated the bathroom and did most of the work ourselves.”

“These glass balloons are from Just boutique in Ballymena.”

“The boys’ room has lots of personal touches with their initials and little touches that I made myself.”

“The boys’ bed was custom-made and it was the first thing we bought for the house. There are lots of toys stored in the steps.”

“These lanterns look great with lights in them around Christmas time.”

“I made the string garland for Gracie’s table and it ties in well with the décor.” “I’ve picked a variety of churns up over the years from local shops.”

“There are lots of girly touches in Gracie’s nursery. We picked up the doll’s house at St George’s Market and upcycled it.”

“We completely changed the kitchen when we moved in. McCloys in Cullybackey were great to work with.”

“I have quotes like this one all around the house.”

DOUBLE UP Shop this month’s designer buys and purse-friendly lookalikes BY RÓISÍN CARABINE

SAVE

SPLURGE

Effie 3-seater velvet sofa from Danetti.com £1,099

Debbie 3-seater velvet sofa in royal blue from Cultfurniture.com £649

Kubu Bamboo Pendant Light from Artisanti.com £220 Sinnerlig Pendant Bamboo Lamp from Ikea £40

Neon Pink Heart Light from Bobbyrabbit.co.uk £50

Zuiver Marvel Persian Style Rug in blush pink, 170cmx240cm, from Cuckooland.com £299

Louis de Pootere Fading World Rug, 170cmx240cm, from Modishliving.co.uk £526

Blue Faux Velvet Cushion from Primark £5

Pale Blue Velvet Cushion from Bivain.com £65

Heather Bar Stool in tan faux leather from Cultfurniture.com £109

Warm Red Metal Seated Garden Bench from Habitat.co.uk £175

Talking Tables Love Heart Neon Light from Amara.com £65

Dutchbone Franky Bar Stools (set of 2) from Cuckooland.com £478

Petite Friture Weekend Outdoor Bench from Nest.co.uk £570

In the August issue of Pride 2019 Accessories, accessories Hilarious signs you are getting older How your home can make a good first impression

Credit: Vila

Interiors, health & wellness, travel reviews, local weddings, beauty news, events, competitions and lots more 77

Mr & Mrs Monaghan

Photos by Stephen McCracken Photography

own couple Clare Martin and Daryl Monaghan first met eight years ago in the North Down House bar in Comber, where Daryl used to DJ. “Two years’ later when we were both free and single, Daryl got in touch with me via Facebook,” Clare begins. “And the rest is history. “On our first date, Daryl was a real gentleman and treated me like a princess. He took me out for a beautiful dinner and cocktails – went all out! He also had me laughing so hard that I cried. As the relationship went on he continued to treat me like a princess and make me laugh, and we found out we had lots of common interests. Plus he’s gorgeous too so it wasn’t hard to fall for him.” Daryl says: “I had fancied Clare for a while and asked her out on a couple of dates before she finally gave in. I knew she was the one quite quickly; she is beautiful, caring and funny, which is what I love about her the most.” Daryl popped the question on Christmas morning 2017 and the couple set the date for 4th April 2019 at the Clandeboye Lodge. Clare looked stunning in a Stella York gown from LA Bridal House, accessorised with a veil and fresh flowers in her hair. T-Cakes Catering Company, Belfast, made the three-tiered sponge cake. Family friend Denise Campbell played the piano during the ceremony and at the reception drinks, the father-of-the-groom Brendan Monaghan performed a few songs, and DJ Darryn McGarry played for the rest of the night. The couple were delighted with their beautiful wedding photos captured by Stephen McCracken. Daryl’s favourite memories from his wedding day are “seeing Clare walking down the aisle and how stunning she looked in her wedding dress. And my favourite moment of the day was when we were pronounced Mr and Mrs Monaghan by the minister.” Clare adds: “When we were walking out of the ceremony room everyone was cheering and smiling, and we had Queen’s Don’t Stop Me Now blasting on the piano which had everyone up dancing and singing – it was brilliant!”

Venue: Clandeboye Lodge, Bangor Dress: LA Bridal House, Carrickfergus Groomswear: Bogart Menswear, Belfast Bridesmaids’ dresses: LA Bridal House, Carrickfergus Hair: Julie-Anne Bentley, Gatsby 2 Hair Salon, Newtownards Makeup: Lucy Bradley Makeup, Bangor Flowers: Floral Designs NI, Newtownards Stationery: Inspired Hand Wedding Stationary, Belfast

Mr & Mrs McGowan Photography by We Can Be Heroes

ounty Down groom Kenny McGowan and Donegal bride (NW editor) Catriona Doherty had their first date in Café Nero, Lisburn Road, on 15th June 2017, they got engaged on their one-year anniversary, and tied the knot in Redcastle Hotel nine months later. Catriona wore a classic Mikado silk wedding dress from Butterfly Bridal, accessorised with a cathedral-length twotier veil from Pronuptia, Belfast, and an angel wing bridal hair clip. She changed into a party wedding dress later that night; an illusion back, embellished gown from WED2B. The couple had two wedding cakes; a four-tier cheese display, and a chocolate biscuit cake in three flavours which was made by Catriona’s soon-to-be sister-in-law Laura Wheelan. Both cakes were displayed on oak tree slice stands – handmade by the father-of-the-bride Patsy Doherty. Talented pair Tom and Lisa from We Can Be Heroes, captured the wedding photos. Catherine and Marty Smyth, who is from band In Their Thousands, sang during the ceremony. Local trad musicians played at the drinks reception, before Late Night Radio Band took to the stage. The couple share the same favourite memory of their wedding, which is: “Seeing all of our family and friends together happy, celebrating with us and having a brilliant time. It was an easy-going, fun day, enjoyed in the gorgeous Redcastle Hotel.”

Venue: Redcastle Oceanfront Golf & Spa Hotel, Moville Dress: White Butterfly Bridal, Belfast Groomswear: Hire Class NI, Belfast Bridesmaids’ dress: Lipsy online Hair: Teresa Doherty, Hairspray, Muff Makeup: Tara McClean Makeup, Hairspray, Muff Flowers: Heaven Scent Florist, Carndonagh

THE

ALBUM Tanya Kelly and Bernice Rafferty at the Down Royal Races, photo by Kelvin Boyes, Press Eye

Brona Marshall, Angela Crossan, Jessica Beattie, Emma Harkin, Lisa Forbes, Andrea Stewart, Kari Simpson, Meadhbh Caldwell and Trudy Anderson

Integrated Education Fund’s day at the races

Advocates and supporters of the Integrated Education Fund (IEF) got together to reinforce the benefits of educating NI children together at the May Day Races at Down Royal. Hosted by the IEF’s Campaign Chair, Baroness May Blood, the event saw guests treated to a cocktail reception and a three-course meal, with ‘tipster’ Pamela Ballantine keeping guests on course to back a winner. Entertainment was brought by long-time supporter of the IEF and popular comedian, Tim McGarry. Trudy Anderson, Jessica Beattie and Angela Crossan

Sarah Loughran and Kathleen O’Hare

Photo by Declan Roughan

Denise Chapman, Hazel Jones, Brian Small, Doreen Dobbs

Iwona Weicek and Chris Campbell

Matthew Teague, Sarah McEntegart, Lucy Morris and Michael Fegan

Black Bush Blended at The Menagerie Black Bush Blended is part of Bushmills Irish Whiskeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s #BlackBushStories series and saw attendees taking part in a paired whiskey and tea tasting led by Suki Tea cofounder, Oscar Woolley, before participating in a tea blending masterclass. The event series #BlackBushStories showcases and celebrates the stories and talents of independent and spirited individuals who challenge traditional thinking in their fields and live outside the box. For more information on future events visit: blackbushstories.com Photos by Brendan Gallagher

Melissa Duddy and Scott Rutherford

Lauren McMullan and Oscar Woolley

Nic Worthington and Sophie Foxley

Janet Humphries, Kym Knox and Cheryl Casement

Alison Casement and Katie Kildea

Marie Lennox, Karen Turner and Gemma Ross

Charity Fashion Show at Knock Golf Club

Lady Captain of Knock Golf Club, Eve McCracken, held a charity fashion show in aid of Brainwaves NI, a local charity funding research and providing support for those with brain tumours and their families in Northern Ireland. The show featured looks provided by Lulu Blu Boutique (Holywood and Newtownards), Urban Decay make-up, and was compered by Pamela Ballantine who is a patron for the charity. The night was a huge success raising over ÂŁ3,000 for this deserving cause. Photos by Stephen McCracken

Dorrie Webster, Caroline and Alex Klisa, and Susan Marsh

Hilary Graham, Joan Sinclair and Carole Hunter

Pamela Ballantine and Eve McCracken

Stacie Agnew and Beth Simms

McConvilles Bar Official Opening

Julie Flaherty with Owen and Dawn Matchett

A £300,000 transformation of one of Northern Ireland’s oldest bars has been unveiled. The McConville’s bar complex in Portadown dates back more than 150 years. The McConville family have safeguarded the original fixtures and fittings, and the revamped bar retains its authentic snugs, moulded ceilings and etched windows. Proprietor Andy Robinson has ensured the much-loved community pub’s future is in safe hands, putting the finishing touches to a £300,000 refurbishment of the adjoining Ma Berry’s which has seen the venue completely transformed. Photos by Kelvin Boyes, Press Eye

Darren, Wendy and Leah Toal

Lee McCreary, Richie Byrne and Nuala McKeever

Mike Callan and Trevor McCann

Balmoral Best dressed

The Balmoral Show Best Dressed competition returned this year and proved to be a popular addition to the show’s programme. Cool FM’s Rebecca McKinney judged the most appropriately dressed lady and gent; Lesleyanne Conlan and Michael Duggan. Fabulous prizes were on offer, with the winners each receiving a stylish country outfit provided by title competition sponsor Dubarry as well as a luxury two-night break with B&B and one evening meal provided by Ireland’s Blue Book. Photo by Brian Thompson

Michael Duggan and Lesleyanne Conlan

Q Radiothon launch

The second annual Q Radiothon launched recently at The Doyen in Belfast. Last year’s inaugural campaign raised a staggering £96,000 for four equal beneficiaries; Action Cancer, Cancer Fund for Children, Friends of The Cancer Centre and Marie Curie. Help Q Radiothon reach their target of £100,000 for 2019 - to support the cause, visit: www.qradiothon/donate Photos by Bill Smyth Gareth Stewart, Leigh Walker and Ibe Sesay

Caroline McIlwaine, Conor O’Kane and Eimear McCoey

Colleen Shaw, Ana Wilkinson and Nuala Bannon

Hama Davidson

Alex Donnelly, Jill Maginnis, Kerry Fletcher, Tara Beattie and Amy Bogle

SuperValu Secret Garden Party SuperValu hosted a Secret Garden party to celebrate the launch of their extensive new range. Guests met for pre-drinks at The National, Belfast, before being whisked away to a mystery location. The Secret Garden was set amidst the gorgeous grounds of Belfast Castle, where attendees enjoyed a barbeque of SuperValuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new offering, al fresco drinks and live music. Photos by Matt Mackey, Press Eye.

Jackie and Ken Blaney

Robert Ainley, Carolyn Stewart and Laura Ainley

Elizabeth Owen and Katie English

Julieann McCook, Geraldine McLaughlin, Sean McLaughlin, Louise McMullan and Elaine Loughery

Kate Ferguson, Orla Farren and Megan McCluskey

Northern Ireland Tourism Awards

The 2019 Northern Ireland Tourism Awards took place recently at the Palace Demesne, Armagh. Organised by Tourism NI in association with Diageo NI, the event honoured achievement across Northern Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourism industry. Hosted by BBC broadcaster and presenter Jo Scott, the black tie event featured a Georgian-themed marquee in the grounds of the Archbishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Palace Shona Ayre, Alan Crowe and Kendall Glenn

Michelle Doogan and Rachel Dalzell

Photos by Kelvin Boyes, Press Eye

Laura Stewart, Antony MacMaghton and Jeniffer Micheal

Naimh Cavanagh and Rachel McKnight

Laura Woods and Claire McAvoy

Down Royal Race Evening As we have come to expect with a Down Royal meeting, the Race Evening on 31st May, was a fashion-filled affair. Atendees sported a range of trends from animalprint midis to pastel co-ords, and florals. This month, the Magners Race Evening takes place on 26th July, with the first race starting at 5:30pm. Photo by Kelvin Boyes, Press Eye

Alex Walker and Kerry Anne Courtney

Lesley Lockington, Mary Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Boyle, Roberta Barham and Kay Drummond

Anita Shevlin and Edel Halligan

Lewis Routledge, Sadie Thomas, Will Sanderson, Emma Sharples, William Spencer and Claudia Fogarty

Lauren Hughes, Sylvie Kerr and Emer McMahon

Orlagh Carmody and Grainne Hughes

Caroline Rodgers and Rachel Martin

Ruth Quigley and Trisha Connolly

NELSON

K N OWS

Travelling with children “I want my kids to experience the world, even if it’s a world that doesn’t always accommodate them well,” writes Eunice Nelson

any years ago when my brother’s kids were small we took a family trip to Disneyland Paris. I was around 24 at the time but I was still spellbound by the magic of the place and for the last few years I’ve dreamed of taking my own children there. Last summer my sister and I decided that 2019 would be the year, our older girls are both nine and my youngest is five so it seemed like perfect timing. Then on a short break in Monaghan during last year’s summer holidays I got a bit of a reality check. The hotel we stayed in was very geared towards children, so during breakfast on the first morning there was someone dressed as a minion, running around to entertain the little ones. My fiveyear-old was glued to my phone and completely oblivious, while my nine-year-old completely freaked out. So much so that there were no more breakfast buffets for me on that trip and she now askes if there will be minions every single time we go somewhere. As you may have guessed my Disney dream died right there and looking back to that original trip I now realise that one of the reasons I enjoyed it so much is because none of the children on the holiday were actually mine. Yes I was helping to look after them, holding hands and sitting next to them on rides but none of the real responsibility was mine. I didn’t have to stress about them in the airport or comfort them when a seven foot Mickey Mouse came over for a cuddle at dinner and scared the life out of them. All holidays with young children are stressful, there is no getting away from that fact but my family trips have an added layer of complication in that my oldest daughter has cerebral palsy and my youngest daughter has autism. Bringing a wheelchair on a flight is one thing but getting through an airport with a child who goes into meltdown when there is queueing and waiting involved, is like trying to wrestle one of my wild cats into a pet carrier. There is usually the same amount of scratching and emotional scarring.

But I do love a challenge and despite their limitations I don’t want my girls to miss out on life, I want them to experience the world even if it’s a world that doesn’t always accommodate them well. So I decided that instead of a long flight we would venture to Legoland this year, and if I do say so myself, it was quite a success. There were few meltdowns and only one sleepless night. Some memories were made and definitely some lessons learned. Saying that, I have decided to give some tips and advice to anyone travelling with kids who have additional needs, and to all the parents travelling with the small dictators in their lives.

Be organised

This sounds like the most obvious advice but it’s the most useful. I went to the airport armed with a folder to make sure that the security process was a quick as I could make it. No stray liquids or missing boarding passes on my watch. As I’ve said before my little girl can’t handle queues so everything needs to go smoothly to minimise anxiety for everyone.

Know your airport

I wanted to fly into Heathrow Airport as it’s only around twelve miles from Legoland, and I figured after the flight a short transfer would be easier on everyone. We flew from Belfast City, so being in a smaller airport with less people and fewer lines at security was great. My little one got a bit upset because of the wait but not as bad as I imagined. The flight back was even better, Heathrow has a soft play area in each of its five terminals so my daughter got to work off all of her energy and anxiety which made for a very calm trip home. The other wonderful thing about Heathrow is their Sunflower badges. These lanyards let staff know that you have a hidden disability such as autism or dementia, and can be picked up at the special assistance desks, alternatively you can just email the airport team and they will post one to you anywhere in the world. I love this idea as people will be considerate when they see my older daughter’s wheelchair but have no clue about how much my little one might be struggling.

Travel light

Let’s face it anyone with small children feels the need to pack for every eventuality, but you need every hand you have just to keep hold of the little darlings in the airport or in unfamiliar surroundings. I brought my nephew and my mum on this trip, so having an extra set of eyes and hands to help was great. My older daughter is still very afraid of the lift up to the plane so my husband carries her up the steps. Add in an impatient five year old and luggage and just getting on the flight is no easy task.

Forget your expectations

Note to self, your family is not going to become the Waltons just because you’re on holiday. The kids will still fight, they will still be fussy eaters (if they’re like mine) and you will still feel like smothering your other half in his sleep most days. This will all be magnified by the fact that you will be sharing a

small space and getting on each other’s nerves more than usual. For most families this is helped by kids clubs and activities, but for mine it usually involves mammy taking one child and daddy heading off with the other, because they don’t really have shared interests. Legoland has a lovely sensory area so my little one spent loads of time there. Her daddy didn’t mind because when she’s content so is he. I on the other hand spent lots of time in the Heartlake City section of the park which my older daughter loved. I’d rather we did everything as a family, but a little separation is better than a lot of tantrums.

Ask for help

Take all the help you can get, whether it’s a kind stranger offering to hold open doors or the airport staff trying to make things a little easier. I have found that the majority of people are kind and helpful but there will probably be someone on the flight that you could do without. A physical disability is always easier to recognise than autism but once the Aer Lingus staff knew why my little girl was

upset they couldn’t have helped more. They deserve a big thank you for being so wonderful to both of my girls, making a point to speak to them by name and chatting to them all through the flight.

Is it worth it?

Ask yourself, am I booking this trip because my kids will love it, or because I want them to love it? This has been the most difficult thing for me to come to terms with. I want to bring my girls everywhere. I want to buy knockoff handbags with them in Chinatown and visit the giant toy shops on Time Square. I want them to experience the most beautiful and amazing places the world has to offer. But just because I want these things for them doesn’t mean that’s what they want or need. In reality as long as my girls have a pool, wifi and a McDonalds nearby they are happy. They don’t need the frills, they don’t want the noise and I’m not sure if we will ever be able to handle long haul flights. So I have had to do what I’ve been doing for almost ten years now, adapt my expectations and do what’s right for them. Have a wonderful summer everyone, may your baggage allowance be large and your check in queues small. May the sun loungers be as plentiful as the cocktails and your sunburn be more manageable than your children. Happy travels.

Send us your photo! Thanks to all who submitted photos for Here & There. To be featured simply take a photo of you with Northern Woman out and about locally or abroad and email your photo to NW editor Catriona: c.doherty@ independentmagazinesni.co.uk. Every month one reader will win a ‘Pic of the Month’ prize, so well done to Mary Mansfield for sending in the Grand Canyon photos, Mary has won the new Eau Thermale Avène sun care gift set range, worth £86.

F PIC O THE H T MON

Friends Gayathri, Janet, Jess, Mary, Patti and Stephanie who travelled to the Grand Canyon on a camping adventure

HERE & THERE

Graham Ash pictured by the River Thames, London

Mary Mansfield pictured before her hike down into the Grand Canyon

Aisling Byrne and Fiona Hannon browsing Northern Woman in the Knightsbrook Hotel, Meath

Deirdre Davey enjoying the magazine in sunny Lagos, Portugal

Have your brand featured here and reach your target audience. To sponsor Here & There contact Senior Advertising Manager Jackie Reid, email: j.reid@belfasttelegraph.co.uk

R E G BLOG CORNER

Keeping up with

THE INSTAS? Elizabeth Vuagniaux from Our NI Homes talks #instahomes

aybe you’ve been keeping up with The Kardashians, or the Joneses – but are you now trying to keep up with the Instas? It may surprise you to know that there is a growing community of homeowners (and renters) sharing pictures of their homes on Instagram. If you’re renovating, redecorating, self-building, house hunting, or just enjoy looking at other people’s homes – chances are you have already stumbled across it. This community is what inspired my sister and I to start @our.ni.homes, a simple way to curate this content and showcase these beautiful dwellings under one roof. In an effort to highlight the great products and services available on our doorsteps, we select NI suppliers to introduce our followers to, with the aim of encouraging

local buying. We also collaborate with suppliers to deliver ‘Expert Sessions’ on subjects varying from plants to tile trends. So why would you want to share your home on Instagram? Some people would be forgiven for automatically thinking ‘show-offs’, I was one of them before I joined in! I watched from the sidelines admiring and taking inspiration other people’s homes for a good few months, before I decided to get involved. For me it was about reciprocal inspiration, I was inspired by accounts I was following, is it conceited to think maybe someone could find the same from my home? Our mum has always been house-proud, and I have childhood memories of seeing her on a ladder painting or wallpapering – so I think it’s ingrained in my sisters and me. Some Instagram users feel dissatisfied with their homes after looking at images of other people’s homes on social media,

according to a recent study. This overly critical mindset has been described by chartered psychologist Dr David Lewis as Home Dysmorphic Disorder (HDD). Dr Lewis says when we are able to make more comparisons with how others present themselves to the world, the greater the dissatisfaction we may feel with our own surroundings. So, should we be wary of #instareality? We carried out a poll on @our.ni.homes and discovered that the motivation for sharing home photos is varied. A lot of responses agreed that Instagram is the perfect platform to facilitate users to keep a diary documenting their progress. Like most things in life, it’s easy to forget how far you have come and what you have achieved. Some of the other reasons given include: ✱ Escapism/a hobby ✱ To connect with like-minded people ✱ To share DIY/renovation tips ✱ To avoid boring ‘normal’ friends with your home pics Interestingly quite a few of our respondents started their accounts when they were on maternity leave, and one blogger stated it helped her deal with postnatal depression – perhaps at a time when new mums can feel isolated, it’s so easy to connect on this very social platform. Others wanted to interact with people on a similar journey, if we take for example the significant numbers of self-builders in Northern Ireland, Instagram is a fountain of knowledge. Especially from people who have been there done that - and learned all the lessons for you, so you don’t make the same mistakes. Some are a few steps ahead of your build, and by following their progress you can be more prepared for your next steps. Then there are homeowners who may be behind you on their self-build journey, and you are their teacher. The same applies to the renovators, first-time buyers, DIYers and fixer-uppers; Instagram makes it so easy to share ideas and give insight. Our own family home needs a little reno, and a lot of decorating. Instagram facilitates the sourcing of products, suppliers and tradesmen. With no extensive research needed, I can direct message someone and get information almost immediately. Perhaps we are products of the world we live in and just want everything instantly. In balance, isn’t all just a bit of fun? So, unlike me, don’t knock it ‘til you try it! But if you do prefer to watch from the sidelines, you are very welcome to do so and follow us @our.ni.homes, or on our home accounts @adorn.my.home and @vicandmaisie. Or if you are a local business with an interest in contributing to our expert sessions, please contact us via Instagram or email: hello@ournihomes

NORTHERN MAN Jeff Meredith reflects on the proudest moment of his life

Streets of the old city

48 Our Free Tour Valencia guide Helena

Marathon day, Stormont

o I did it. I ran Belfast Marathon. And I’m still buzzing. The lead up to it was daunting, I was concerned about getting an injury, the route, and what might happen on the day. It’s scary trying something completely new and especially something that pushes your body so much. I’d prepared the best I could, I’d even booked into the newly-refurbished Jurys Inn in Belfast because I wanted to run a big section of the new route and wasn’t sure how I’d feel after it, so I stayed over. That was just over a week before the big event and it definitely helped calm and prepare me for the big day because I knew what to expect. The training runs were done, it was marathon day. I got to Stormont and stood at the top of the hill, calm and ready. There were no nerves. Just calmness. It was 9am, the race started and off we went. I met my running buddy and we stuck together having a laugh, enjoying the ‘power here’ signs, the high fives, the spectators cheering us on, and the perfect weather. I’d heard people talking about hitting the wall,

I don’t think I did, it was more a slow and steady decline in energy and power, but those ‘power here’ signs definitely helped. The mental challenge was huge, quitting wasn’t an option. I was going to get across that finish line if I had to crawl on my hands and knees. We got through the finishing stretch, helped along by the huge crowd cheering us on. I’d done it. I met one one my training buddies and we hugged and she left. I was all alone. I sat down and I didn’t have the strength left to open a bag of crisps. I cried. I was completely drained of everything. I got on the bus into the city centre and cried on that journey as well. It was all so overwhelming and amazing. It was the proudest moment of my life, the best day of my life, the biggest thing I’ve ever achieved on my fitness journey. I did something I never thought I would, I actually ran a marathon. 14 months after starting running again from scratch, 14 months of running for fun because I loved it so much.

hours in Valencia BY JEFF MEREDITH

lying to Spain from Nothern Ireland is a breeze these days, with regular flights from Belfast International with easyJet or Jet2. Traditionally heading to Spain means two weeks at the beach. For me it’s all about the cities - this time Valencia to enjoy the quaint old town, beautiful beaches, one huge park and great weather. Here’s my suggested itinerary for a two-day trip:

Museu de les Ciències

Oceanografic Aquarium

An alternative to Belfast’s hanging umbrellas

Old city bridge over the diverted river bed

Central Market

Umbracle Gardens

Torres de Serranos

Valencia beach

City Cathedral

Day One

Pre book with Free Tour Valencia and go on a 2 1/2 hour walking tour of the historical centre. There’s a lot to see in the historical centre and old city including the huge and stunning Central Market, La Lonja de la Seda right across the road, the city’s Cathedral and Basilica and its busy square, Plaza del Virgen, the Torres de Serranos city gates, and numerous quaint old streets, cafes, not to mention great shopping. Make your way around the hundreds of food stall in the Central Market, sampling and buying fresh products, or enjoy lunch in the busy market café. The market is foodie heaven. Or head outside the market and relax in one of the many cafes and

Activities at Museu de les Ciències

restaurants in the area where you can sit outside and watch the world go by. I recommend Aloha Vegan Delights takeaway close to the market. You’ll might want to relax after that, so hop on the No. 19 bus and head to the beach in the afternoon. It’s huge and is lined with hundreds of cafes and restaurants. You can go to for dinner after you’ve splashed along the shoreline.

Day Two

Get a hire bike or electric scooter and go on an adventure. It’s a handy way to get around the city, via the extensive cycle network or through the Garden of Turia; the old riverbed which snakes through the city.

You can travel traffic free along the gardens towards the futuristic and awesome looking Palau de les Arts, Hemisferic and Museo de las Ciencias. With exhibitions, museums, an aquarium, outdoor activities, sculptures and gardens, there’s plenty to do and lots of fun to be had. You might want to go back into the city centre for lunch or dinner and enjoy some local delights. Churros and chocolate, Tiger nut milk drink, Agua de Valencia, and tapas are all must-tries in Valencia. The city is a hidden gem, it’s bigger than I expected but small enough to be mostly doable by foot. Get your flights booked and go on an adventure.

— COMPETITION —

Win

A two-night stay at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo

e are giving one lucky reader the chance to win a luxury break at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo. You could win two nights’ accommodation for two adults in fourstar accommodation, plus dinner on one evening of your choice in the AA Rosette Classiebawn Restaurant, and a super buffet breakfast each morning. The prize also includes complimentary access to Healthstyles Leisure Centre which features an 18 metre indoor pool, steam room, Jacuzzi and fully-equipped gym. Surrounded by the gorgeous countryside of Rosses Point, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa offers stunning views of Sligo Bay and the neighbouring mountains. Take in the stunning landscape and enjoy all that the hotel’s location has to offer, including golf at championship courses and surfing at a beach located just three kilometres away. Onsite guests can unwind in Solas Spa and Healthstyles Leisure Club, before enjoying a casual bite to eat and drink in Waves Bar or a sumptuous dinner in Classiebawn Restaurant. Plan a summer staycation this year at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo where they have fantastic family holiday packages. If you are not lucky enough to win on this occasion, visit: www.radsligo.com for details of their packages.

TO ENTER Simply complete the sentence. What is the name of the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo, AA Rosette restaurant? Email your answer and contact details to: competitions@northernwoman.co.uk before 5pm on Friday 26th July. T&Cs: The prize is for 2 night’s b&b with one dinner, it’s subject to availability and is non-transferrable. It is not valid on bank holidays, Easter, Christmas and New Year. INM T&Cs apply.