The Holiday Season Edition

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WORDS: Grace Culham

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all me dramatic but there are few things in life more annoying than sticky or unclean hands. Perhaps from work or (over) indulging in foods like ice cream on the go, either way, it’s uncomfortable, not to mention unhygienic.

Depending on your profession, you may find yourself using an awful lot of hand sanitizer. For a short period of time I worked as a make-up artist and on counter we used to go through bucket loads of the stuff, but it was the moisture stripping and clinical kind that left your hands red raw and comparable to sandpaper.

I’ve been trialling all eight of them for around a month and every handbag, bedside table and desk drawer now has a designated hand sanitizer- my hands have never been so clean!

His & Hers Loves

Merci Handy Hand Gels

Another fantastic thing about Merci Handy and their products is that they do no test on animals or include micro beads. A brief explanation of micro beads may be needed; they are basically small artificial beads of plastic that pollute the ocean and hurt animals, which are unfortunately used in some cosmetics. Small emollient pearls containing vitamin E have been used in these products instead to leave your hands silky smooth.

Merci Handy is a super cute Meet Merci Handy, our French brand which specialises in pocket sized hand sanitizers. They current fave for clean, are available in eight different but beautifully fragranced equally delicious scents - Hello and soft hands.

Sunshine, Coco Rico, Flower My current favourite is Coco Power, Chérie Cherry, New Wave, Black Vanilla, Oh My Lemon and Lollipop. They are Rico (queue heart eye emoji) it has a delicious soft compact and easily transportable – just pop one into coconut aroma which reminds me of Pina Coladas.

It is perfect for taking five minutes away from desk your bag and use as and when you need it. dwelling in work and being transported to a more relaxing destination.

If you would like to purchase any of Merci Handy’s products or require further information, please visit: en.mercihandy.com

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WELCOME TO THE HOLIDAY SEASON EDITION OF HIS & HERS MAGAZINE.

One of the benefits of working on the Holiday Season edition is that it feels like Christmas started very early indeed at His & Hers Magazine!

Emma Hill Editor

Way back in July, we first saw the beautiful new ‘Crazy Colourful’ Christmas campaign by Jo Malone London, which we’ve featured on p8-9, and the lovely team at Next gave us our first taste of their festive collection in early summer (and we don’t mind admitting we were excited about it even then!)

If you’re reading one of the first copies of the print edition hot of the presses, you’ll have spotted the deliciously scented Aveda Stress Fix cream, which we’re giving away to the first people to get their hands on a copy of His & Hers in association with Aveda at Debenhams, Liverpool ONE. I’d like to say a huge thank you to Michaela Crewe for arranging this giveaway. It’s been so much fun getting to feature one of our favourite brands and I can’t wait to try out this cult classic cream (which is meant to help you sleep like a baby!) once I’ve finished working on this edition.

Thanks are also due to our Creative Director, Jennie Blake, Food & Drink Editor, Jean Hill, photographer, Robin Clewley, and health & fitness columnist, Robyn McGlinchey for making this issue special.

We’ll be back in the New Year with our next edition. In the meantime, if you’ve enjoyed this issue, please tweet about it: @HisAndHers_Mag, or show us how you’re enjoying this issue on Instagram: @hisandhersmag Wishing you a brilliant hard-earned break over the Christmas holidays and a fantastic New Year!

Emma Hill

Editor’s picture by Sane Seven 4

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VISITING THE BIG APPLE IN 2018? WE REVEAL A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY

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JO MALONE LONDON’S CRAZY COLOURFUL CHRISTMAS

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THE HIS & HERS MAGAZINE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

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INTRODUCING OUR WINTER SUN MUSTHAVES FROM BAMBOA OUR CREATIVE DIRECTOR’S TOP PICKS FROM NEXT UP YOUR WEEKENDWEAR GAME WITH PRIMARK’S NEW TWEEDS

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HIS & HERS FASHION, FEATURING OUR WOMENSWEAR HERO PIECES

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2017 HIGHLIGHTS FROM TRACEY BELL

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WHY WE’RE SMITTEN WITH ESSENTIAL LIVERPOOL

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HEALTH & WELLNESS ADVICE FROM ROBYN MCGLINCHEY

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THE WRECKFISH STORY: THE MAKING OF A MODERN RESTAURANT

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OUR WINTER INTERIOR DESIGN INSPIRATION

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BOOKING YOUR TRIP TO THE CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW? HERE’S OUR GUIDE TO GETTING THE BEST FROM YOUR TIME IN THE CAPITAL FOR ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING EVENTS OF THE YEAR

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TRAVEL OBSESSIONS: CAVO TAGOO, MYKONOS

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His & Hers Beauty

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CONTRIBUTORS

Editor Emma Hill

Design Director Jennie Blake

Style Editor Bryan Harrop

FASHION, TRAVEL AND STYLE INSPIRATION FOR THE NEW YEAR HIGH STREET HERO PIECES: OUR EDIT OF NEXT'S WINTER WARMERS FITNESS INSPIRATION FOR 2018 & BEYOND OUR CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

Food & Drink Editor Jean Hill With special thanks to contributors

Robyn McGlinchey Robin Clewley

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HOLIDAY SEASON EDITION Cover image by Next

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Why His & Hers loves

Liverpool Shopping Park Liverpool Shopping Park has been met with an overwhelming response from the city’s shopping-lovers since it opened in October.

Having regenerated the former Edge lane Retail Park and surrounding land, Liverpool Shopping Park has brought new retailers to this part of the city including H&M, Outfit, River Island and more. Here are six reasons why we already love it:

Call us shallow, but we love a spot of retail therapy at the weekend, so from the moment we heard that Liverpool was about to get a big new shopping park, we were basically on board. Admittedly, the city already has lots of great stores, but we like to have options!

They celebrated their launch by installing a giant Meccano Liver Bird and frankly you have to respect that!

There’s been a raft of new store openings since the park opened on October 20th making it the perfect place to keep visiting again and again. Liverpool Shopping Park is now home to H&M, River Island, Outfit, Foot Assylum/Drome, Smyths Toys, M&S Food Hall, Boots, Superdrug, The Works and Regatta, and will soon be joined by Next, TK Maxx, Clarks and Wilko too.

A newly improved access road to the shopping park (Milton Road) and ample free parking means there’s more time and money to spend on our first love, shopping!

The arrival of a number of eateries is very welcome news too. Chiquito and Subway have already opened, with Greggs and Frankie & Benny’s due to open early next year.

Rather than just telling customers that they’re great, they’ve been giving back to their new customers with lots of freebies, discounts and offers, something we thoroughly approve of.

www.liverpoolshoppingpark.co.uk

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His & Hers Magazine’s

CRAZY COLOURFUL CHRISTMAS Nobody does Christmas quite like Jo Malone London, and we enjoy the playful way in which the brand gives their products a fresh twist at this time of year. or Christmas 2017, Jo Malone London have unveiled their boldest festive theme yet, a ‘Crazy, Colourful Christmas’, featuring prints created by British fashion designer, Jonathan Saunders.

You’ll find firm favourites like Pomegranate Noir (an eternal His & Hers top pick) alongside the utterly delicious new Green Almond & Redcurrant Cologne (our new fragrance obsession, which seems to be selling out ever so swiftly, so if you love it, we’d recommend stocking up fast, and perhaps tweeting @JoMaloneLondon and begging them to make it a permanent addition to their range, something His & Hers may well be doing when we finish work on this 8

edition!)

The Orange Bitters Cologne is also a firm favourite at this time of year, with its blend of citrus, bitter orange, sensual sandalwood and amber.

We say this every year, but if you’re looking for some last-minute gift inspiration, you genuinely can’t go wrong at Jo Malone London. And if you’re reading this issue in January, we’d heartily recommend treating yourself to a New Year treat so you can start 2018 enveloped in a haze of one of your favourite fragrances. Sometimes those little luxuries genuinely make a big difference!

www.jomalone.co.uk

HIS&HERS LUXURY

Green Almond & Redcurrant Cologne, £92

Green Almond & Redcurrant Ceramic Candle, £120

Cologne Collection, £75 9

HIS&HERS GIFTS

Favourite Fragrances Here are a few of the fragrances we’d love to find under the tree this year, perfect for last-minute gift inspiration!

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1. Gucci Bamboo 50ml EDP, £63. 2. YSL Y 60 ml EDT (available from John Lewis), £71. 3. Harlem Bloom, 100ml (Liberty London) £105. 4. Molecule 04 EDT 100ml (Liberty London) £79 5. Paco Rabanne Lady Million 80ml EDP (The Fragrance Shop), £65 10

HIS&HERS GIFTS

Top Beauty Gifts from Next

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This winter, His & Hers was invited to one of our nearby Next stores (in Aintree) to check out their new beauty collection. In recent months, we’ve been hearing more and more about Next’s cosmetics line (which has been selling incredibly well in 2017), so we were intrigued to hear more about the products.

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After being amongst the first to have a chance to play with Next’s top beauty products, and to meet one of their parfumiers, here are our top recommendations for Christmas gifts.

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1. Blusher, to add warmth to the complexion in the winter months, £7. 2. All in one make-up palette, featuring easy to wear shades, £12. 3. Eye shadow quad, a great treat for friends who like to mix up their make-up looks for nights out, £7.50. 4. We didn’t know what

to expect from a Prosecco fragranced candle, but this one smells delicious, and would look (and smell) perfect next to your make-up collection, £8. 5. NX Power Pink Matt Lipsticks would make the ideal stocking filler, £7 11

HIS&HERS FASHION

His & Hers Magazine Loves:

Bamboa Swimwear If you’re using the Christmas holidays to book a winter sun break for the New Year, we have the ultimate pool-side swimwear essentials from our friends at Bamboa.

Ruby bikini top, £54.99, bottom, £46.99

Luna costume, £69.99

Ocean bikini top, £56.99, bottom £34.99

Jessica bikini top, £44.99, bottom, £32.99

Jasmine bikini top, £44.99, bottom, £46.99

Verity costume, £65.99

Savannah costume, £79.99

Skye bikini top, £39.99, bottom, £32.99

Beach towel, £39.99

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W W W . B A M B O A . C O . U K

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ost wanted gifts from Next

His & Hers Magazine's 14

Lyla petite sofa, from £550 Cocktail glasses, set of 4, £16 Pearl detail sweater, £35 Lurex pointed heels, £36

for her Heart crumble & jug set, £16

Velvet PJ bottoms, £38

Velvet PJ shirt, £38

Faux fur rug, £35

Prosecco candle, £8

Velvet clutch, £22

Lustre candlesticks, from £18

Frozen cocktail making set, £14

Borg jacket, £52

r wate Hot e, £12 l bott

Gin fusion set, £16

Shoecare kit, £32 Socks, £14

Spice set, £30

for him Sweater, £32

Cashmere scarf, £50

Printed trouse rs, £40

Cable knit beanie, £12

Slippers, £30 Tool kit £36

Hat and mitten set, from £11

Christmas tank knit set, from £20

Red jacket, from £20

Cloud sleepsuits, £16

for kids Milestone cards, £5

Milkshake gift set, £7

We've scoured Next's Christmas gift selection to bring you our pick of the best. We hope this will help you find some serious present inspiration for everyone on your list!

Headband, £5 r

r jumpe Reindee 2 from £2

Hat & mittens set, from £11

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HIS&HERS FASHION

HARRIS TWEED COLLECTION Primark has launched a five-piece outerwear collection with fabric woven by prestigious weavers, Harris Tweed, & His & Hers magazine is completely smitten with these wardrobe essentials!

Harris Tweed slim fit check blazer, £85 Harris Tweed herringbone waistcoat, £30

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he capsule collection hosts a traditional Herringbone blazer waistcoat set, a classic check blazer, barleycorn blazer and a bomber-style Herringbone jacket. Each item created with fabric handcrafted from pure virgin wool, which is dyed and spun on the islands of the Outer Hebrides of Scotland.

The traditional method is carried out by one only 120 weavers on the island, in their own homes using skills passed down from generation to generation.

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Because the wool for this collection has been dyed before it is spun, the yarn takes on a spectrum of colours that nestle deep into the fabric. The palette steals the shades of the landscape, the natural elements of the island; fertile brown, marshy greens, overcast grey and a great, deep charcoal.

Each piece hosts a certification label, complete with signature orb emblem to identify it as a true Harris Tweed weave.

This collection is limited run and is only available from selected Primark stores.

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Harris Tweed reg fit herringbone blazer, £85

Harris Tweed herringbone bomber jacket, £60

Harris Tweed slim fit barleycorn blazer, ÂŁ85

For other tailored options for winter, visit: www.primark.com 17

IMAGE: Robin Clewley

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Our Fashion Hero Piece of 2017 Back in spring, our Creative Director spotted this striking Next yellow and white print, which we fell for so hard that we ended up shooting it twice (in spring and summer for our two big fashion stories). Then you all started telling us how you were wearing yours, giving us the most feedback we’ve ever had on an item of clothing featured on these pages (a huge thank you for that!)

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e loved seeing how you’ve been wearing your iconic Next printed skirt and dress and would love to see more pictures of how you’ve styled it up for autumn/winter. Please share your fashion snaps with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or email: emma@eg-publishing.com and we’ll share

our favourites!

In the meantime, here’s a throwback to our biggest fashion story of the year, plus on p21 you’ll find our pick of our favourite new pieces from Next to style the look for the new season, so that if you’re wearing Next’s colourful printed dress or skirt to your Christmas parties, you can keep your look colourful, chic and cosy!

We’d like to thank Chantelle Craig and Alice Gregory at Next for another fun-filled year of fashion inspiration, talented photographer Robin Clewley, who shot this Next fashion hero piece twice (now that’s dedication!) the brilliant Jennie Blake, who can always spot the fashion pieces you’ll go crazy for first! Plus Boss Model Management, Electric London, Stylist Christina Roig and Leah Harrison and Grace Cullham.

www.next.co.uk 19

IMAGE: Robin Clewley

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We loved Next’s yellow prints in spring and summer and will be bringing them into the new season by adding these new pieces. Who says your wardrobe can’t be cosy and colourful?

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LOURFUL T O H C

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HIS&HERS FASHION

1. Notebooks, £3 2. Gloves, £22 3. Faux Fur Saddle Bag, £25 4. Tassel Earrings, £8.50 5.Belted Coat, £88 6. Plus a spritz of Gold Amber Eau De Parfam, £22, to update your signature fragrance for winter

All available from: www.next.co.uk 21

His & Hers Magazine’s 2017 highlights: Tracey Bell is one of the first dentists to be awarded a Masters in Dental Law and Ethics One of the highlights of His & Hers Magazine’s summer was celebrating as Tracey Bell, who owns four award-winning dental and aesthetics clinics, was awarded a Masters in Dental Law and Ethics.

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racey was one of just five dentists in the UK to achieve this prestigious qualification from Bedfordshire University. She completed her Masters over three years, studying law, medical negligence and dental practice and also completed a research project focusing on cosmetic injectables and how they are regulated in the UK, which is set to be published in the UK medical press.

While completing her Masters, Tracey also obtained a Cardiff University Law School Expert Witness Certificate last year. This is part of Tracey’s ongoing commitment to investing in her education, and her expertise in the legal aspects of clinical negligence and consent provides her with a useful insight into day to day issues in dentistry and aesthetics.

Tracey will continue to use her skills in clinical governance and medical negligence and will also continue with the expert witness work which she is already involved with.

This year, Tracey has highlighted the need for tighter regulation regarding the way in which Botox and fillers are administered. She conducted a survey as part of her studies, asking dentists questions such as: ‘What training did you initially undertake in order to provide Botox and fillers?’ and ‘How many hours 22

of cosmetic revalidation (extra training) have you completed in the last two years?’

Tracey said: “As part of my studies, I surveyed more than 300 dentists, asking questions regarding the General Dental Council’s regulation of cosmetic injectables (Botox and fillers), when performed by dental professionals.” She added: “I was keen to find out more about the views of fellow dental professionals and also to find out how much ongoing training they’d had in administering injectable treatments.”

At present, there is no regulatory body or any formal process of regulation regarding the administration of non-surgical facial aesthetics and Tracey, like many in the industry, is keen to see more safeguards for patients brought in. To this end, she is working with local bodies on a strategy for change.

Tracey is currently working with leading UK universities in the North West on postgraduate development in aesthetic medicine, law and ethics amongst policy makers.

www.traceybell.co.uk

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COMING SOON

LIVERPOOL

S H O P P I N G PA R K EDGE LANE, LIVERPOOL, L13 1EW

LIVERPOOL

LIVERPOOLSHOPPINGPARK.CO.UK

S H O P P I N G PA R K

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HIS&HERS ENTERTAINMENT

Getting Down to the Essentials We were recently introduced to Essential Liverpool, a site featuring a host of information to help local and visitors alike to get the most out of the city.

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nlike a lot of city guides, which tend to cater primarily to tourists, Essential Liverpool features such a large volume of businesses and offers (we lost count after a while!) that even if you've been living in or near the city for years, we'd still recommend it to get you out of a date night rut. Or to inspire you to be a tourist in your own city for a day with their Things to Do page.

And fear not, if these kind of pages tend to make you feel guilty for not being a culture vulture, this one's reassuringly down to earth!

As an added bonus, the site's free to businesses and the public, as Dean and Georgina Currall, who launched the website, are independent businesspeople themselves and wanted to support others in the same boat. So if you're a business owner and you're not already listed, we'd suggest sending them a tempting offer or two!

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Speaking of which, their offers page is regularly updated and although it doesn't just feature restaurants, we're already smitten with it for making dining out at some of the city's fanciest restaurants almost as affordable as eating in. It's also worth keeping an eye on if you'd like to treat someone special to an experience, such as a spa day or dinner and a show, this Christmas, but don't want to break the bank.

Also, the events page is worth bookmarking, as it features all of the usual big events, but also smaller events run by independent businesses. Plus, it's always nice to have the vaguely smug sensation that you're ever so well informed about what's going on in the city!

Unlike most events pages, you'll find a broad range of information on this page - from your local pub

HIS&HERS ENTERTAINMENT quizzes, open mic nights and wine tastings to what’s going on at the Echo Arena. And it's not just about food, drink and music. You'll also find hair, beauty, fashion, sports and lifestyle covered on the site.

It's Liverpool's hub for all the events and businesses the city has to offer and is ideal for anyone to use, from families and local business-people to tourists, stags, hens, students and retirees.

Essentially, what we wanted to say is that if you're going to cheat on www.hisandhersmag.co.uk with a few other websites, we'd highly recommend making Essential Liverpool one of them. All we ask is that you leave a few of the restaurant offers for us!

www.essentialliverpool.co.uk

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HIS&HERS FITNESS

Robyn’s Christmas Column

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hat lazy end-of-year feeling is finally here which means that the Christmas break is almost upon us. Finally, the part of our year that we all look forward to, mark out on the calendar and count down to as soon as autumn’s over.

For me, this year has brought a change of routine and pace for the first time in ten years, maybe even more! So, I have been thinking that perhaps this is the ideal time to really sit back and take stock.

The first port of call is those New Year resolutions.

Remember those? Most likely only one or two have actually been considered and the rest forgotten about completely. So this is a great time to revisit those resolutions and have another bash at making some positive changes.

While we think about taking stock of our dreams and goals, it is a great opportunity to re-connect with our body. Busy lives, crazy schedules and less than ideal sleep patterns take their toll on our bodies.

As we finally take some hard-earned time off over Christmas, this is the perfect time to schedule in a session with the Osteopath, Physio, massage therapist or even a Pilates class. Releasing tension out of our body ahead of a total change of routine whilst on holiday may well prolong the positive effects of the treatment, helping your body to relax even more.

Having taken the action and got the ball rolling toward some quality R and R time, it is time to switch off, unplug and slow down. Turn the tech off for a few hours and pick up a book or magazine or go for a walk with an old friend. Block out chunks of time to catch up with your loved ones that you haven’t had time to see in weeks. It is incredible the powerful 28

effect that connecting with others and laughing can have on the soul. Spending that quiet time reading, snoozing or even doing gentle exercise like Yoga or Pilates also gives your mind that time to slow down, disconnect from the frantic pace of normal life, and just catch up.

Not everybody has the patience to sit around and for some of us, getting out in the fresh air is just as relaxing as reading a book. With so many incredibly beautiful woodland, heathland, lake and shoreline areas to choose from across Britain, it is our family mission to find a new spot to explore every few weeks. With waterproofs at the ready, we are making the most of our change of family pace and it’s already brought endless moments of contended, muddy bliss to my soul.

And throughout your weeks of unplugging, decompressing, relaxing and rejuvenating body, mind and soul, I put this simple challenge to you: breathe. Relaxing is all about taking time to slow down and breathe but I mean more than that. Change your breathing physically, make it slow, deep and purposeful. Try a breathing exercise, try something active that makes you breathe deeper or something still that helps you focus on breathing as a means of meditation. Try it all but make sure you breathe.

It’s the source of life, the means by which our bodies function and the very action that makes us able to be who and what we are.

Have an amazing Christmas!

Expert skincare At Spire One Penny Lane Clinic our exclusive skincare products can treat a range of skin problems including: • rosacea • acne • dry skin • prematurely aged skin • fine lines and wrinkles • hyperpigmentation For a free consultation with one of our experienced nurses contact us on

08444 990 617 info@spireliverpool.com www.spireliverpool.com

Spire Liverpool Hospital

1 Penny Lane, Liverpool, L18 1DQ

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HIS&HERS Accessories

When His & Hers wished Silverberg Opticians a Happy 60th!

Earlier this winter, His & Hers joined the Silverberg team to celebrate 60 years of business in the city.

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n 1957, Harold Silverberg started a small optical practice, Silverberg Opticians, above a pharmacy on Spellow Lane in Walton.

Sixty years later that business has become a household name in Liverpool, looking after thousands of patients' eyesight.

Ian Silverberg, who took over from his father in 1983, with his wife and business partner, Martine, is proud to be one of the city’s independent success stories. He says that: “Over the years, we’ve really seen the high street change; so many businesses, especially independents, have come and gone.

There have been a few hard times, but many more fantastic times”. Asked why he thinks Silverberg Opticians has lasted so well, he adds: “We put ourselves alongside other great customer service based companies. Liverpool has always homed some amazing luxury branded stores and we include ourselves amongst the elite. We create an ‘optical experience’.

It hasn’t always been this way; after starting in Spellow Lane, Silverberg Opticians expanded to six sites across the city’s suburbs opening up their patient base. However, when Ian took over the business, he wanted to fulfil his dream of owning one of the most prestigious practices in the country.

He made the decision to sell the suburban practices and focus on one high end store, in the city centre.

He remembers when he moved to Silverberg’s current location, Forty Whitechapel, nearly 15

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HIS&HERS Accessories years ago; “When we opened, we had people from all over the country coming to see the new practice, from optical magazines to global optical chain stores. We pushed the boundaries of what an opticians can be”.

Having set the bar so high back then, Ian has invested heavily in his team and store to keep it ahead of the rest; “I’m aware that times change and as a business owner I need to keep up. Over recent years I have brought in new team members to help us push the business forward, with a strong online presence to help grow our brand, as well as invest in new technology and equipment for the practice so that we are always giving the highest level of service.”

To help celebrate their 60th Anniversary, Ian and Martine Silverberg hosted a party in store on Thursday 30th November.

To book an appointment, call: 0151 709 2012 or visit: silverbergopticians.co.uk

Ian and Martine Silverberg

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An interview with

Words: Jean Hill

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HIS&HERS FOOD & DRINK

Gary Usher This winter, food & drink editor Jean Hill conducted a leisurely interview with Gary Usher.

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urnt Truffle in Heswall is an unassuming space, but it has its own stark beauty. Gary Usher, owner and head chef, explained his take on classic cuisine. He is not an innovator. His argument is: if you can make Crème Brûlée perfectly, why mess with it. I get it. I am often a ‘no dessert’ kind of a guy, until someone tells me Crème Brûlée is on the menu.

Gary Usher had a brilliant apprenticeship in classic cuisine, and had some great mentors: Angela Hartnett, and Matt Christmas from Chez Bruce.

When I interviewed Gary, he was about to launch Wreckfish in Liverpool. He managed to do this through crowd-funding. He explained that people who supported this venture were able to choose the kind of restaurant they wanted. The launch was spectacular.

The building has been lovingly restored and reveals a rich heritage: open spaces, vintage wood and leaded lights. The beautiful green tiled kitchen is centre

stage on the ground floor. Downstairs has a gallery feel, with photographs and paintings that relate a personal history. We were treated to feather blade beef canapés: a fierce flavour with moist delicious after taste. It was breathtaking.

There is a deli feel at Wreckfish, with great cheeses, and sausage, with piquant relishes. A green tomato chutney carried sharp flavour and heat with star anise. It is the attention to detail that impresses. There are very early morning or lazy later breakfasts to be had. Ultimately it is that classic dining experience that will thrill. One chef seems to be creating a movement: he wants to create opportunities for his chefs. His staff love being there: you can feel the buzz in the air. The food is special, and it will crystallise Liverpool’s reputation for fine dining.

Wreckfish: www.wreckfish.co/book 33

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Enjoy cocktails & classic dishes WHY NOT START YOUR NIGHT WITH TWO COURSES & A GLASS OF WINE FOR JUST £20 BETWEEN 5PM – 7PM

CALL US 0151 945 1010 OR EMAIL INFO@WHEELERSLIVERPOOL.COM MPWRESTAURANTS.COM

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HIS&HERS INTERIORS

Words: Emma Hill

Interior Design Inspiration: Update your home for the New Year with Style Studio As temperatures continue to dip, you’ll find lots of interior design features advising you to cosy up with tactile throws, candles, fairy lights and cushions, all in the name of hygge. And although I love all of those finishing touches, sometimes you need to tackle the fundamentals to get your home to look and feel more welcoming in the winter months.

Despite my years as an interior design journalist, I’ve been known to avoid making big decisions around the home. In much the same way that I’d far rather treat myself to something small and perfectly formed from a beauty counter than go jeans shopping (or try on any kind of clothing), I’m much more comfortable hiding out by the candles in Ikea than thinking about things like sofas that require a person to make proper decisions (and to have a relatively accurate recollection of how large their living room and the doors through which furniture 36

must fit actually are).

In my youth, I once found myself in a store attempting to buy curtains having neglected to measure up my windows (which, it transpires, really slows up the curtain-buying process). Still, there’s a limit to how much you can cosy up your home with candles and nicely arranged beauty products and I’d hit that limit.

I knew that some new blinds would make my home feel warmer and look better and above all would finally resolve the shortcomings of the flimsy blinds

in my bedroom (which faces out directly onto a lamp-post), an issue I’d been vaguely meaning to deal with for seven years or so.

I finally bit the bullet when the owner of Style Studio, an incredibly friendly local blinds company, explained that they’d do all of the measuring-up, would recommend the most suitable blinds and would also install them, leaving me to simply choose the fabrics from a big selection of look books (the kind of challenge I genuinely relish).

Satisfied with this division of labour, I enjoyed a really happy half hour or so flicking through look books and asking Jeff from Style Studio a few quick questions about which style of blinds he felt would work best in my home. He recommended semitransparent Mirage blinds (which I’ve since learnt are selling like hotcakes) to sit inside the window frame and classic Roman blinds to sit outside the window.

It turns out that this combination will instantly make your home feel warm in winter (but conversely cooler in summer, when the black-out lining works its magic to stop your home looking or feeling like a greenhouse). I love the simple, modern finish of the blinds and liked the fact that Style Studio also offer the option

to have lamp-shades and cushion covers made up in the same fabric as your blinds or curtains (such a clever way to tie the room together).

It was a treat to be able to entrust somebody else with the measuring up and ultimate installation of the blinds, both of which were done swiftly and efficiently, plus Jeff and Phill who I dealt with were so friendly, helpful and nice to chat to that it was like having a (very design-savvy) friend round to visit.

The blinds are British made, very high quality, and if you’re trying to improve your sleep pattern and don’t yet have blackout blinds, I’d recommend them as one of the best investments in a good night’s sleep you’ll ever make!

I appreciate the style and functionality of the blinds every day, but as well as the end product, I think the professionalism of the blind fitting service made a big difference. If you want your old blinds to be removed, Style Studio will do that in a heartbeat and they’ll also leave your home dusted, hoovered and looking immaculate so that there’s no sign of any drilling or disruption from the installation of your blinds.

If you love it when your home looks great, but know that realistically 2018 probably won’t be the year in which you buy a sewing machine and start hemming your own curtains or blinds, please consider giving Style Studio a call. You’ll be giving your business to a lovely independent local company, they’ll make your home look better, and you won’t have to raise a finger unless it’s to flick through fabric samples. Now that’s my kind of domestic godessing!

Tel. 0141 814 3500, website: www.stylestudio.co.uk 37

HIS&HERS FOOD & DRINK

Words: Jean Hill

T

he origins of Graffiti Spirits are legendary.

His & Hers knew a little of the history.

Our editor seeks out Salt Dog Slim’s when in search of the perfect Mojito. Two young guys had a vision for hospitality in Liverpool that has already changed the face of the city. Matt Farrell and John Ennis are a perfect match because their skills and expert knowledge complement each other. John is all about sourcing the finest drinks and cocktails for their bars and venues. Matt is committed to delivering high quality food. It is an extraordinary success story. They started out with £200. They basically ran out of money and had to open their first venue, Santa Chupitos, there and then or go bust.

Graffiti Spirits is based on sourcing the best ingredients and delivering what people want with grace and flair. They now have six venues in the city.

El Bandito is a basement tequileria straight from the heart of Mexico. The tequila (as with other spirits and beers) has been sourced through John’s extensive travels. It is all about being ambitious, in the best sense of the word, and authentic. Both men have a keen awareness of the food and drink scene in Liverpool. A great deal happens in house. The décor in all venues is original and interesting.

A little bit about the venues. As someone who lived in Canada and America, I have eaten my fair share of hot-dogs. Believe me when I tell you, seek out the best at Salt Dog Slim’s. There are classic combinations like chili cheese, pickles and pulled pork. Or you can go for some adventurous toppings, such as char sui, or peanut butter and jelly. We have been to Santa Maluco several times, and we love it. There are consistent themes with Graffiti Spirits. They do brilliant cocktails: and they specialise with the cuisine. Santa Maluco makes pizza and it has become a firm favourite with foodies. They use a Neapolitan recipe for their pizza dough, and it is something quite special. They also do Vegan Mondays, which come totally recommended. Apparently the mozzarella cheese is rice based, but it tastes fabulous. Slim’s Pork Chop Express has a fine reputation.

Matt and John are trail-blazers and innovators.

38

Graffiti Spirits is poised for

an exciting 2018 Ground-breaking Plans Underway for an Artisan Food Market in Duke Street. An Interview with Matt Farrell: joint Founder with John Ennis of Graffiti Spirits.

They will open up a new ground-breaking market in Duke Street in 2018. Broadly their ambitions are to encourage independent artisans and make space for start-ups, a butcher, a delicatessen and hopefully a bistro. This harks back to the best of traditions. I suspect it will also be quirky, perhaps a little futuristic, and great fun, which is in the Graffiti Spirit.

HIS&HERS FOOD & DRINK

www.graffitispiritsgroup.com

39

8, 15 & 16 DECEMBER, 2017 ALL-INCLUSIVE FESTIVE NIGHTS ONLY AT ANFIELD We know how to celebrate here at the home of Liverpool FC. And Christmas is no exception.

Enjoy unlimited drinks, a three-course meal, brilliant live entertainment and fun casinos all for just £75per head.

So whether it’s an office get-together with colleagues, or a Christmas night out with friends, look no further than The Ultimate Christmas Ball, hosted exclusively in the expanded Main Stand, Anfield.

Book early to avoid disappointment.

0151 264 2222 or liverpoolfc.com/christmas T&Cs apply. See website for full details.

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Sassoon Salon, in The Metquarter Liverpool, has

Cutting Edge Colour and Style

Words: Jean Hill

in Spades.

His & Hers believes the elements need to be right in all respects to have a good hair salon experience. Sassoon does this in spades.

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hey pride themselves on giving you a warm welcome. There is an in-depth consultation, where colour and cut can be determined.

Staff tend to stay at Sassoon, because they feel valued. And they have the space and time to develop their skills. Because of initial discussion, I ended up with exactly the cut and style I wanted.

That sounds obvious: ask for what you want, and that is what you will get. I have been blonde for some time and really wanted something more subtle. Now I have that.

Jasmine, my colourist, was informative, friendly and a total professional. She gave me warm tones, and streaks of blonde, and I love it. Nathan, who did the cut and style, discussed options. He recommended just below chin length, with restrained layers. It is a salon where after-care, home-care and optimal results are part of the process. It was a totally enjoyable experience.

Luxury hairdressing brand, Sassoon, has recently announced the opening of Sassoon Men, the first to open outside of London. The Male Salon occupies the upper level of its already existing Metquarter branch. Sassoon Men will help build awareness around treatments, products and services available.

It will be delivering technical male haircuts and bespoke consultations.

The salon, which opened on 1st N o v e m b e r, will offer all male clients the chance to receive a loyalty card permitting one complimentary treatment after every five visits. Jon Webster, Liverpool Salon Director at Sassoon, explained the history. “We’ve noticed a growing demand for men’s hair design throughout Liverpool…We wanted to provide them with an exclusive space where they can…benefit from our men’s hair experts.”

Jennina O’Neill, Metquarter Centre Manager, said: “(This is) the perfect addition to the premium retailers we have in the Centre… Having an exclusive men’s space is an acknowledgement that we understand men look for that luxurious service.”

Sassoon Men will join a whole host of fantastic brands in the Metquarter. Existing brands include: MAC, Jo Malone, Hugo Boss, TM Lewin, Illamasqua, Mococo, and Links of London. And I can’t resist a quick mention for Paperchase, the one I cannot walk past.

0151 2271450 41

HIS&HERS FOOD & DRINK

Second McCooley’s site now open in Cavern Quarter, Liverpool Over the past few months, anyone who walks along Mathew Street or Stanley Street will have spotted a lot of activity going on. Well, all was revealed in November with the second McCooley’s in the Pub Invest Group stable opening its doors in the cavern quarter of the city centre.

The latest opening created 80 new jobs. From part time bar staff to full time supervisors and bar managers.

Tam Williams, Head of Marketing, commented: “We are pleased to open our second McCooley’s site in the cavern quarter of the city.

McCooley’s in Concert Square has been such a huge hit in Liverpool over the past two years, with the perfect mix of sports and Irish bar, we now thought the time was right to expand over on the other side of the city centre.”

The new McCooley’s takes over two existing sites in the city centre.

What was Jamie Carragher’s Cafe Sports England on Stanley Street as well as one of Pub Invest Group’s current existing sites, Smokies on Mathew Street. The new venue is a total of 6,500 square feet over several floors and mirrors the same offering as the first site. You’ll find a great range of drinks, food, live music and sports – with an Irish twist at the new McCooley’s.

For more information, please visit: mccooleys.co.uk/contact-us 42

43

His & Hers Magazine’s 2017 highlights: A Garden Party fit for a Queen at Allerton Manor Golf Club It was an English Garden Party fit for the glamourous ladies of Liverpool, hosted in the brand-new event space at Allerton Manor, The Hay Loft, in aid of Radio City’s Cash for Kids.

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arlier in the year, guests were greeted with a glass of Summer Pimms cocktail as they got selfie-ready in front of a flower wall of peonies and roses at Allerton Manor.

Dressed in their summer finery, ladies gathered in the beautiful new space- it’s original beams adorned with garlands of English flowers overhead, whilst quirky centrepieces featured vintage tea pots overflowing with bright posies and even a garden rake strewn with colourful blooms!

Guests including Cash for Kids ambassadors, Mandy Molby, Claire Gallagher and Trudi Brooks, enjoyed a delicious three-course meal as they were entertained by local singing sensation Claire Sophia. The new event space enjoyed its first outing during the event, which raised money for Radio City’s Cash for Kids, in aid of Incubabies. Incubabies is a new charity raising money to fund a new extension of the neonatal intensive care unit at Arrowe Park Hospital, Wirral, and has been passionately supported by the charity’s prolific fundraisers.

Lia Kennedy, Sales & Marketing Manager at Allerton Manor, said: ‘it has been a real honour to not only reveal our brand-new event space to such a fabulous gathering of ladies, but to do so supporting such a fantastic cause. We have tried to create a venue 44

which celebrates the original features of the building whilst adding plenty of modern style, making it the perfect place for a celebration of any kind!’.

Emmerdale’s Gillian Kearney and blogger and model Jade Ainsworth watched on as the Met Quarter’s latest fashion import, Smudge Boutique, showcased their newest trends for the holiday season as models strutted their stuff in the most up to date summer fashions. Guests were treated to goodie bags jam packed with treats including VIP tickets to The British Style Collective taking place across the city this weekend, and a miniature bottle of Liverpool Gin. The afternoon, which was hosted by Radio City’s Claire Simmo, culminated with a delicious array of cream scones and afternoon tea fancies, served on stylish stands, which were soon devoured and washed down with plenty of prosecco. The ladies enjoyed the warm weather on the venue’s brand-new terrace, and shopped ‘til they dropped in the pop up retail lounge, as the afternoon continued late into the evening, with some taking the party into Allerton Manor’s restaurant, The Old Stables, until midnight!

Tel. 0151 421 2610, www.allertonmanorgolfclub.com

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Words: Jean Hill

lifestyle, diet, and general well-being. The Spa is a warm and welcoming environment. It radiates subtle fragrances, peace and calm. We were booked in for Decléor Aroma massage and Glow facial. My therapist, Ellen, began with a deep muscle massage.

Tensions melted away. A storm was brewing outside, but I was cocooned in a world of well-being. Ellen recommended regular sessions of massage to deal with the everyday stresses and strains. We moved on to the facial. It was a surprise that I had been harbouring residual tension. I had expected to hear that my skin was dry and not hydrated. Turns out it is fine, but there is a cream to suit all skin types. The component parts of the facial: toning, cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising are gentle and soothing. I loved the sheen and the glow of: Orexcellence day cream, and was advised to try Oxrexcellence night balm, and Phytepeel exfoliator.

Pay a visit to the

Suites Spa

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and prepare to make your December or January (much) more relaxing

he package chosen for us It is part ritual, part was Festive indulgence, and yet I suspect Escape Weekend. it is an essential element As our lives tend to get of feeling good about There are Christmas Party Nights packages, a Murder increasingly hectic throughout ourselves. We enjoyed a Mystery evening or up and whispered December, the Suites Spa’s gift catch Festive Family Night. The exchanges (so as not to vouchers become ever more disturb those napping) facilities boast a relaxation room, a swimming pool, popular with those who want whilst we lounged. We refreshments on tap, and about beauty routines to give the gift of relaxation this learnt stone and mud treatments. that are more than skin year. In the run-up to Christmas, deep. Check through the For me, the clincher is that we can enjoy a bistro lunch His & Hers Magazine was invited packages on offer, which are or afternoon tea, wearing a day or overnight pamper to experience a ‘Festive Escape’. robe and flip-flops. Totally sessions. The Christmas liberating. The afternoon food menus offer festive tea came with bite sized sandwiches and luscious lunches, fine dining, and buffet options. There is cakes, with strawberries and cream. There are something for everyone.

Champagne lunches, and Prosecco is available in the Relaxation room, and in the bistro.

Tel. 0151 549 5400 On a deeper level, it is a chance to consider your 46

www.suiteshotelgroup.com/spa

47

HIS&HERS TRAVEL

As we count down to the

Chelsea Flower show

which takes place on 22nd-26th May 2018, we look back on a very special visit to this year’s show.

The London Experience: Cocktails at The Savoy’s American Bar and Dinner at Kaspar’s Seafood Grill, The London Hilton Park Lane for Afternoon Tea and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. His & Hers travelled by Virgin West Coast Pendolino Train Service and stayed at: La Suite West, K West and The Marriott Park Lane.

Words: Jean Hill

VIRGIN TRAINS His & Hers stepped on board Virgin Trains first class return from Liverpool to London and there was a point in our outward journey when our rail manager announced that if we glanced to the right we could see cars struggling to maintain any speed in really heavy traffic on the M1. ‘We’re cruising in comfort at 120 miles an hour, and they are not, and that’s the difference’. It’s a compelling argument. You can check your e-mails or not, recharge your smart phone, and there is ample table-top space to use a device of choice: laptop, kindle, or tablet.

On weekdays the menu is extensive: a breakfast of smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, or Eggs Benedict, or possibly a bacon roll. The choice is yours. Brunch might be Covent Garden soup or fresh fruit salad. Evening options are: confit chicken, or layered fish pie, or wild mushroom risotto and warm chocolate brownie for dessert. There are cheeky tipples which include: Wreckless bitter or a NIXD Mojito. At weekends tasty snacks are on offer. It’s totally relaxing, the service is excellent, and the journey passes in a pleasant, stress free fashion. We chatted and caught up with one or two e-mails and because it was a Pendolino service, it was ridiculously smooth and speedy.We arrived in London, refreshed and ready to enjoy every moment of the visit.

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La Suite West

La Suite West

La Suite West

It has become a ritual to head off for a late lunch at Covent Garden. The weather had warmed dramatically whilst we lingered over food, and we made our way to our hotels via the Tube, stepping out into glorious sunshine. La Suite West is located close to Bayswater Tube Station in Inverness Terrace.

I registered and was escorted to my junior suite.

The hotel is described as minimalist boutique in style, which it is, but that is not all it is: this was very much a room with a view, with a balcony overlooking a leafy street, and there was everything you could possibly need for an enjoyable stay, including the kitchen sink, and a cafetiere. It was elegant and spacious, and the bathroom definitely had the wow factor: marble décor with a long trough-shaped marble basin, and bath with shower option, and an extravagance of luxurious fluffy bath towels. There was a bath robe and mules to relax in later and watch Liverpool FC finish the season in style with a 3–0 win, but no time for lolling around yet, because it was a quick change into something très chic, because we had a date with cocktails at the Savoy, American Bar. 49

The Savoy The Savoy has a proud heritage: the American Bar is world renowned: it was winner of ‘Best International Bar Team 2016’. It does Art Deco elegance, in spades.

The menu for cocktails is a journey through Britain: London reflects the ‘Roaring Twenties’ era. The Pennines reflect the Industrial Revolution: I chose an intriguing non-alcoholic cocktail from this region, with seedlip, coffee cordial, pink grapefruit juice and salted Cascara soda, which was delicious, and totally refreshing. My companion chose a Mojito, which is, of course, a traditional Cuban highball (our editor has always been a bit of a rebel). There are enchanting options from Sherwood Forest, enticing whiskey options from Castle Rock Edinburgh, and, moving on to Kent, the garden of England, there are wines infused with herbs and spices, and fruit and rum based cocktails. Bartenders’ notes help the novice to navigate their way through all the enticing options.

It is probably the most famous Art Deco bar in Britain, and as we sip our cocktails, Cole Porter’s music drifts across the room, beautifully played on a grand piano, that takes pride of place: there are appetizing bar snacks to be had, and I cannot think of a better way to while away an hour or two.

It was time to check in for dinner at the Savoy’s Kaspar’s Seafood Bar. It is a spectacular venue: it is like stepping into the ‘Roaring Twenties’. The bar and sparkling chandeliers take centre stage, whilst the polished Art Deco décor denotes sheer style and opulence. You can sample a small selection of dishes 50

at very affordable prices: two courses for £26.00, or three courses for £29.00. When you consider the quality of the food, it is a steal. Menu prices vary: there is something for almost everyone: there is Royal Beluga Caviar served with blinis/sour cream, seasonal oysters, Cornish crab, scallops and poached prawns and much more. My starter was French onion soup and I chose a glass of sumptuous Argentinian Malbec to accompany it. The soup had a strong, beef broth, depth of flavour with that wonderful unravelling of gruyère cheese, that added silky texture and saltiness to the dish: perfect. My companion had chosen fresh pan roasted scallops with beetroot risotto as her main: and we were reliably informed by our very knowledgeable waiter, Malcolm, that it was the best dish on the menu, so I felt impelled to spear one or two from her plate, and it was true, they were soft, gently cooked and slid down the throat in a moment of deliciousness. My main was the ‘catch of the day’: pollock, with poached egg, asparagus and cream sauce. The fish, which was mild with large firm flakes and a slightly lemony flavour, was perfectly cooked, and the asparagus was crisp yet tender. There should not have been room for dessert, but…when we spied strawberry and rhubarb “Eton Mess”, it proved irresistible. The meringue was crisp on the outside and soft and squishy (technical term) on the inside: the rhubarb added an astringent layer to the overall sweetness. Memorable. The sommelier’s wine list is well worth investigating, and you can be sure of expert advice if you need it. It is a very special place and we intend returning very soon.

HIS&HERS TRAVEL

Afternoon Tea at The London Hilton Park Lane

The Savoy

K West Hotel & Spa

A new day dawned and it was a perfect English summer day. We took a meandering stroll through the park, to arrive at The London Hilton Park Lane.

We were here to enjoy a champagne afternoon tea.

The service was superb, and had the personal touch: the attention to detail was impressive, the food was beautifully presented and tasted wonderful. The sandwiches were dainty, with substantial fillings: Coronation chicken, prawns with a cocktail sauce, ham, and veggie options. You can order more sandwiches, but you probably shouldn’t because the scones, pastries and miniature fancies are unmissable.

The champagne was a lovely, dry sparkly treat, and the leaf tea (Harney & Sons) was beautifully refreshing. The fancies were to die for, and panic not, if you can’t manage to eat it all, and it is a challenge, you will be given a takeaway box. We were smiling with contentment as we made our way to Oxford Street, to window shop, and I was beginning to feel that sense of excitement and anticipation that is the lead up to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

As we don’t get the chance to visit London as often as we’d like, we always aim to pack as much variety into our annual Chelsea trip as we can, so we really enjoyed the contrast between the Savoy’s charm and heritage and K West’s modern, minimalist appeal.

When we arrived at the hotel, there was a lovely lively buzz of chatter at the bar (where you’ll often spot a famous musician, or several, shooting the breeze. K West has a well-earned reputation for attracting both the old guard and the rising talents of the music scene and they’ve created a relaxed informal atmosphere which encourages guests to take their time and linger awhile at the bar.

Upstairs, our room had a refreshingly simple interior design scheme, and was very spacious (which is always a bonus!) You’ll find your very own smartphone for free calls during your stay, a tablet, and Philippe Stark fittings in the bathroom. Basically, if you like the finer things in life, you’ll be pleased you booked a stay here. We enjoyed all of the sleek design touches during our stay, but will confess that by the time we’d noticed some of the clever finishing touches in our room, we’d already had our head turned by the oh-so-cosy waffle robe and super-comfy bed. We’d recommend the K West for getting the simple things, and the more sophisticated flourishes, just right.

The London

Hilton

K West Hotel

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HIS&HERS TRAVEL

The Marriott Park Lane After an exciting few days in the capital, our energy levels were lagging slightly by the time we reached the beautiful Marriott Park Lane. However, a very warm welcome from the team on reception soon revived us!

If you haven’t stayed at the Marriott Park Lane yet, we’d heartily recommend adding it to your life list. It’s a lovely looking hotel inside and out (with lots of kerb appeal!) and the team here are so accommodating that you’ll find yourself relaxing in no time.

Our room was stunning, and every detail, from the wallpaper to the textiles, bed and bathroom fittings, had clearly been very carefully considered. If it’s understated luxury you crave, The Marriott Park Lane certainly delivers. As our London visit neared its end, we lingered for a continental breakfast at the Marriott (which comes highly recommended), then made our way to the Virgin First Class lounge at Euston where we awaited our train back to Liverpool. We’re already counting down to our next trip to the Chelsea Flower Show in May!

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HIS&HERS TRAVEL

The Chelsea Flower Show I arrived early at RHS Chelsea, and as my pass took me through the turnstile, I was thrilled to take in the vista. It’s always breath-taking: and the weather was calm and sunny, which meant the display gardens were at their absolute best. Cottage garden planting is always intricate, and bewitching, though the overall effect looks natural. This year there was a theme of sustainable planting in arid and inhospitable landscapes, which addresses the challenges of climate change on a global level. The exhibits were spectacular In the Grand Pavilion: some of the most beautiful displays of orchids I have ever seen, David Austen old-fashioned roses with glorious scents, and delicate native water lilies. There were traditional plants: foxgloves, lupins, old-fashioned roses, and a glorious small, perfectly formed, white clematis (UK plant collectors brought clematis specimens back from Spain and China over 400 years ago).

Best Artisan Garden, which also won Gold, echoed the theme of converting a derelict space into a garden: this time an ‘industrial wharf’ was transformed using recycled materials, understated planting, and featured pines and larch. I left with my senses in a whirl: visions of enormous crimson peonies, rosy purple native orchids, beautifully scented cabbage roses, delicate blue delphiniums, luminous purple passion flowers, and a rather lovely small white clematis are all imprinted on my memory. There is a whole community of enterprise brought together at RHS Chelsea: BBC Radio, charities, banks, a glimpse of China, the Greening of Grey Britain, and the sense of differing landscapes, and yet, in the end, it is the sheer beauty of the plants that dazzles. That is the skill of all of the gifted designers that come to RHS Chelsea: to create an environment where the planting plays the star role.

The M & G Garden, won Gold and Best in Show: it was inspired by the vision of transforming a disused limestone quarry into a vibrant garden. It boasted limestone columns, and a botanical range of native plants from Malta, including the Carob Tree, which is a protected species in Malta. The designer James Basson used native planting, sustainable water supplies and composting to engage with a neglected fragile environment.

There were BBC 2 Radio themed gardens (it is a 50 year anniversary): which included a Chris Evans Taste Garden, which featured 50 different vegetables, and show-cased a dahlia named Cheyenne as a tribute to Chris Evans’ vibrant hair colour. The Zoe Ball Listening Garden, was a real favourite with the public. The water in the troughs danced as underwater speakers beat out a set of Radio 2 music.

This was designed by James Alexander-Sinclair, and it’s a stunning concept. The Welcome to Yorkshire Garden was one of my favourites: it evoked a cliff walk where woodland met coastline, as it spilled down from a ruined abbey to the sea, and contained some beautiful natural planting. The World Horse Welfare Artisan Garden won a People’s Choice Award. The designers, Adam Woolcott and Jon Smith and those involved with the charity really engaged with the public: the sculpture of Clippy (a rescued horse) was made from donated horse shoes, and the plot moved from darkness and poisonous plants to the safety of light, fragrant herbs and grasses. The

Chelsea Flower

Show

Virgin InterCity West Coast: 03331031031, www.virgintrains.co.uk La Suite West Hotel: www.lasuitewest.com The London Hilton Park Lane Hotel: www.afternoontea.co.uk/london/mayfair K West Hotel & Spa: www.k-west.co.uk The Savoy American Bar, and Kaspar’s Seafood Restaurant: www.kaspars.co.uk www.fairmont.com/savoy-london/dining The Marriott Park Lane: www.marriott.co.uk RHS Flower Shows: www.rhs.org.uk 53

HIS&HERS TRAVEL

WORDS: Emma Hill

Unwind in style at Cavo Tagoo,

Mykonos The Greek islands are always a firm favourite with anyone who likes their skies like they like their ocean views, endlessly and bewitchingly blue.

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or years, I’ve had vague plans to visit Mykonos, inspired largely by my friends’ Instagram posts from the island, featuring the kind of ocean views, pools and skylines that I’d be willing to travel far further than the Greek islands to see.

However, due to Mykonos’s growing popularity, I’d never managed to get my hands on direct flights to the island at the last minute. This year, I finally decided to start my holiday planning nice and early and discovered that if you book your flights in advance, there are some great deals to be had.

A direct flight from Manchester Airport to Mykonos takes just four hours and Cavo Tagoo provides a car to and from the airport for all of their guests, making the short trip from the airport to the hotel entirely stress-free.

If you like your interior design simple and fuss-free (which I happen to), you’ll find lots to love within Cavo Tagoo’s stylish whitewashed walls. The interiors are stunning in their simplicity and this hotel proves that modern luxury does not have to be stuffy.

The accommodation is spacious, ridiculously easy on the eye and soon makes you feel like you’ve somehow wandered into your dream beach home, rather

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HIS&HERS TRAVEL

55

than a hotel. From the sleek bathrooms to the elegant living areas, the designers get everything right. However, when you occupy the location that Cavo Tagoo does, no matter how talented your design team is (and they really are talented), the pools and the views beyond will always be the stars of the show. Don’t believe me? Just try googling Cavo Tagoo and you’ll see countless photographs taken by guests showing the hotel’s stunning infinity pools and the ocean beyond.

Like most of the other guests, much of my time at Cavo Tagoo was spent soaking up the incredible views, which just never get old. However, even in an area of such outstanding natural beauty, I can never go very long without thinking about food, and I couldn’t resist sampling the hotel’s breakfast, which had been highly recommended and fully lived up to the hype. There’s something incredibly indulgent about tucking in to a delicious breakfast as you gaze across at the ocean while the sun gently warms you.

The hotel’s drivers are available to take guests into town at any time, and the hotel manager had recommended several excellent local restaurants. If you take your food seriously (and why wouldn’t you!) you’ll love Mykonos, where you’ll find a surprisingly 56

high number of fantastic restaurants in a relatively small space.

The architecture is beautiful, with so many amazing views around every corner that it’s tempting to take photographs incessantly. And once you’ve found a good coffee bar or restaurant, you’d be hard pressed to find a more relaxing place to sit and watch the world go by.

If you’re seeking some sunshine, views that you’ll never tire of, great food and a few days of ocean living, I’d thoroughly recommend Mykonos and if you’re looking for the ultimate base to make your stay special, Cavo Tagoo delivers in spades. The hotel looks great, it’s somehow utterly luxurious yet completely relaxing all at once and the team who work at the hotel go above and beyond to make sure that all of their guests enjoy their time on the island.

As both Cavo Tagoo and flights to Mykonos tend to book up very fast (with good reason!) it’s worth planning your visit to the island early, even if this means you have to break a bit of a lifetime obsession with last-minute breaks (as I did). I promise this is one trip that’s worth getting organised for!

www.cavotagoo.com/mykonos

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2018 Travel Inspiration:

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Do New York in Style!

HIS&HERS TRAVEL

Earlier this year, Shaun Troke took a break from writing his own travel blog to pay a visit to New York for His & Hers Magazine. Here are five of Shaun’s favourite NYC hotels, which he has written about for this edition. bbbTHE QUIN After a seven-hour flight from Manchester Airport, The Quin Hotel, located in Midtown Manhattan, offers the warmest of welcomes to New York City! And, the pleasantries don't stop at the reception desk. Surrounding the reception area is the peaceful lobby. With high & wide windows looking out onto 57th Street, it provides the perfect backdrop for guests to conduct business meetings, or to lounge leisurely by themselves or with companions.

If you're feeling peckish, The Wayfarer restaurant and bar adjoins the hotel lobby, serving a variety of dishes, from Greek yoghurt and granola to their All-American Breakfast (which I was told was like the traditional English Breakfast, only bigger!)

My Premier Room, like every room in the Quin, featured a stress-free bedside gadget. From your extremely comfortable DUX bed, you can control the room’s lighting, temperature and blinds with the touch of a button. There's even a privacy option that, when selected, pops up on a mini-screen outside your room, informing callers that you don't want to be disturbed (there's none of that hanging a sign on the doorhandle lark at The Quin!)

And, while there's a conveniently placed tabletop Nespresso machine in every room, free tea and coffee is also available from 7-9am in the cosy Drawing Room, to accompany your early morning email checks, courtesy of two Mac desktop computers.

Truly in the heart of Manhattan, The Quin is a twominute walk from Central Park, with a variety of finedining establishments nearby. And within the hotel entrance space, you’ll find a generous water dispenser, sometimes filled with limes, sometimes filled with limes and strawberries. So, if you're parched after a stroll around the city, you'll have the freshest and fruitiest water on tap (literally!)

www.thequinhotel.com 59

HIS&HERS TRAVEL

bbbTHE LIBRARY HOTEL I'd only been in the building for five minutes, and the brilliant staff and concierge had already made sure that I was informed about everything that their hotel has to offer (which is a lot!) Standing one block opposite its namesake, The New York Public Library, the Library Hotel on Madison Avenue, like most, has complimentary WiFi. However, the thoughtful complimentary touches for guests do not end there. The Library Hotel offers a delicious breakfast buffet and complimentary tea, coffee, fruit, pastries and cakes 24 hours a day. Not to mention complimentary cheese & wine (including Prosecco) every evening. As it says in the heading on their website: ‘It's All Included!’

The high speed WiFi is strong throughout the building, from the ground floor lobby to the rooftop terrace & bar on the 14th floor. Guests can access the 14th floor at any time of the day, to work and relax in the Writer’s Den or the beautiful outdoor Poetry Garden, and the bar is open for refreshments from 5pm. And, let's not forget the main inspiration behind this hotel’s décor: books. Over 6,000 of them, organised by the Dewey Decimal System. From the vintage telephones to the old-fashioned furniture in the rooms, the sophisticated interior design scheme adds character to every corner of the building.

When you do decide to venture out, behind the nearby 'real library' is the welcoming green expanse of Bryant Park; and, behind the hotel itself is Grand Central Terminal, an interesting building to observe and walk around.

When it comes to saying goodbye, the Library Hotel will always give you a lie-in, with their checkout time being 1pm. And in yet another generous gesture, guests can take books with them upon departure. So, if there's a book that takes your fancy, and, no-one else wants it, you can take a piece of The Library hotel home with you!

www.libraryhotel.com

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BBBTHE JEWEL Should you ever find yourself in New York city combining business with pleasure, The Jewel is the perfect hotel to cater to all of your requirements for work or play. My Deluxe Suite with kitchenette was more than a room, it was more like having my own stylish New York apartment.

As someone who often likes to self-cater, I was impressed by the amount of equipment provided (including a microwave, coffee machine and toaster, plus cutlery, plates and glasses) that the room’s useful kitchenette provided. One thing I did wonder, though, is why there was no bottled water in the fridge, which is usually a guarantee in New York City hotels.

The Jewel, it seems, like to bring the self-catering option to their water, too. On every floor, not far from your room, is a chilled purified water dispenser, with empty bottles stacked above it. That's right, do-it-yourself water bottles! Which does seem like a clever, not to mention environmentally friendly, way to distribute water. And means you never have to worry about running out of purified water during your stay.

Being in the middle of Midtown Manhattan, with Rockefeller Centre as a neighbour, this bustling neighbourhood puts you within walking distance of all of the main attractions: nine blocks from Central Park and only three blocks from Times Square. Two doors down from The Jewel, located in the company's own Club Quarters Hotel, is The Terrace Club.

This indoor/outdoor restaurant & bar has rooftop views, overlooking St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where you can sip on a cocktail that'll definitely hit the spot!

The Jewel Hotel can be the perfect base for anyone: for those staying here on business, it'll provide all that you'd ever want in a productive working environment; for those staying here on vacation, you'd have a base close to everything that there is to do in New York. For those staying here for both... well now you're just being greedy!

www.thejewelny.com

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HIS&HERS TRAVEL

BBBHOTEL GIRAFFE As I approached the Hotel Giraffe on the corner of Park Avenue, I looked up at the towering balconies rising up against the side of the building and into the sky, wondering, 'which one will be mine'. Because, I do love a room with a balcony.

As it turned out, I had a room that you could live in. As part of the Library Hotel Collection, Hotel Giraffe mirrors the same qualities as its sister hotels, offering a true home-away-from-home experience.

And, should you forget to bring anything from home, a 'Sleep Essentials Menu' which can be found in the room, will come to your rescue. This features a list of complimentary items, ranging from toiletries to ear plugs to eye masks and hypo-allergenic or memory foam pillows, to ensure that your stay is a comfortable one!

You can also request a tea and coffee making machine, should you desire that first cup of tea of the morning in your room. And if having my own balcony wasn't rewarding enough, guests can also access the peaceful rooftop terrace upstairs, and the large luxurious lobby downstairs, the latter providing 24-hour complimentary beverages and snacks, along with its cheese & wine reception sessions in the evening.

The local Gramercy neighbourhood caters for anyone and everyone. Madison Square Park is the main focal point of places to hang out, and you'd be hard-pressed not to find somewhere to eat around the perimeter of the park. Inside the park itself, there's the Shake Shack. Nestled under trees decorated by fairy lights after dark, this very popular outdoor venue attracts the crowds up until midnight.

There's something very discreet yet welcoming about the Library Hotel Collection properties – rarely will you see a housekeeping staff member, or spot anyone making service visits to a room, yet somehow the Hotel Giraffe team will always make sure that you and your room are magically looked after!

www.hotelgiraffe.com

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HIS&HERS TRAVEL

BBBcitizenM You only have to browse the citizenM website to see that this hotel is ‘with the times’ and I don't mean 'times' as in Times Square, its fitting neighbourhood!

On their homepage, citizenM claim that check-in will take one minute, and it most certainly does (even less, if you've managed to figure out computers in the last century!) Their touchscreen check-in procedure activates your key-card and it prints your room number - all you really need to know is how to spell your surname and you're done!

The ground floor lobby is probably what a hotel lobby would look like if it were managed by Google, featuring a sophisticated coffee shop crossed with the most technically equipped living room you could ever wish for.

CanteenM is open 24/7 and is home to the hotel’s complimentary breakfast (a must if you enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast). A mezzanine level hosts four Mac desktops and there's more than enough indoor and outdoor seating on both levels.

My room was on the 19th floor, officially the highest floor in citizenM, and was 'the best room in the house', according to a staff member. He wasn't lying. Because, positioned above the length of the extra-large bed was a large wall-to-wall window overlooking the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan.

The view was incredible!

On that first evening, there was nothing more soothing than watching a New York City thunderstorm from behind the huge triple-glazed window, as fork lightning struck down over the Hudson and a rainbow formed over Times Square.

From top to bottom, citizenM impresses, with lower level social areas, modern gadgetry, and a rooftop bar with 360 degree panoramic views. As a company that prides itself on being different, citizenM delivers in spades. Parental Advisory: your kids would love this place, too!

www.citizenm.com

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HIS&HERS BEAUTY

Why Aveda’s

Stress Fix Body Crème is our top beauty buy of the season

At this hectic time of year, we’re trying to make more time for the simple things in life, like a nice bedtime wind-down ritual to keep us smiling on even the busiest of days. Packed with certified organic lavender, this rich cream will help to hydrate your skin overnight and may also help you to drift off.

I

f you were one of the first people to get your hands on a copy of this edition, you will already have a sample of Aveda’s popular Stress Fix Body Crème. This product has become a firm His & Hers favourite for its moisturising and relaxing qualities (always a winning combo at this busy time of the year!)

The body cream has an RRP of £36 for 200ml and is available from Aveda within the Debenhams, Liverpool ONE beauty hall. Please just tell the friendly team that His & Hers sent you and they’ll offer you a free mini-treatment and tailored skincare advice (and they just might slather you in some Stress Fix Body Crème, too!)

We’d love to hear how you get on with this product, so please do keep us posted on Facebook or Twitter!

AVEDA Blow Dry Bar Liverpool Unit 15 (inside Debenhams Liverpool One) 42 Lord Street Liverpool L2 1TA 66

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