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SEPTEMBER 2019 | ISSUE 05
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Welcome....
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Welcome to our September issue of Inside Flintshire Villages magazine. We do hope you’ve had a great Summer holidays? If your anything like me then your probably looking forward to the kids going back to school for a bit of peace and quite and to save a few pennies from the great expensive of trying to keep them entertained all Summer. So what do we have in this months issue? There’s plenty going on in this months issue, including the return of our popular restaurant review, see pages 6-7 to see what our thoughts were on the Travellers Inn near Caerwys. Its still not too late to book a last minute sun holiday so why not take a look at the top ten secret beaches in Europe on pages 10-11. We have more amazing competitions to giveaway including tickets to see Berlinda Carlisle, Alexander O’Neal and the South, see pages 24-25 to see how you can enter. You can also find our usual house to home, tech, motoring, health, fitness, films, in this month and gardening features all inside this months issue.
restaurant so full credit to the chef in producing two very dierent dishes but both ďŹ rst class!
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his month we were keen to visit the all new Gastro style pub the Travellers Inn which is conveniently situated junction 30 on the A55 Expressway, Caerwys. After undergoing a major transformation from a ďŹ re which broke out in the kitchen on February 18th, 2018, thankfully no one was seriously hurt but the kitchen was completely destroyed and the whole building was severely smoke damaged. The owner Doug Gelder whilst recovering from injuries caused by the ďŹ re made the decision to radically transform the main dining area and toilet facilities which a substantial investment was needed. With much hard work from local tradesmen the Travellers inn doors re opened exactly 6 months after the tragic ďŹ re. Previously predominately a Carvery eatery this is
For starters Reg immediately chose the ďŹ rst thing on the menu Black pudding and bacon stack ,I choose the last but deďŹ nitely not the least , Mussels and King Prawns in a white wine sauce. The starters took ample time to come out which we have no problem with as this suggests the food is being freshly cooked and not placed in a microwave oven.
now only served on a Sunday, they now focus on a great selection of food from lite bites ,traditional and a few unique specials, all home cooked using local fresh produce supporting local businesses.
We were greeted with a warm welcome from the sta and were surprised at the dierence in the overall feel to the Travellers; it was extremely light and airy with a modern feel, although still keeping some rustic charm in the ďŹ xtures and ďŹ ttings. The new dining area has a modern log burner and in the seated bar area a much more traditional one, both I imagine to be extremely cosy in the chillier months.
We were certainly not disappointed when the food arrived the presentation was incredible! The Black pudding and Bacon stack which was topped with a cooked to perfection poached egg with a brilliant orange yolk, in Regs contentment he
decided that this was the best black pudding stack he had ever tasted as he swiftly cleared the plate. I had plumped for the King Prawn and Mussels in White wine sauce, again the presentation was amazing and the portion size huge, the Prawns and Mussels were steamed in creamy white wine sauce which was beautiful, the Mussels were served with a chunk of warm sour Dough bread a perfect accompaniment to mop up the indulgent White wine sauce. For our Mains, Reg opted for freshly battered Jumbo Cod and I decided on Sizzling Steak stir fry noodles with Garlic and Broccoli. On arrival we were astounded at the portion sizes in all the years we have been doing the food reviews we have never had such huge portions. In the description it did say “Jumbo� but by gosh this was a sea monster of a cod,
it was by far the biggest we have ever had. The ďŹ sh was fresh and tasty but let’s face it without the crispy coating of the batter this is irrelevant, this one certainly lived up to being the star of the show! This was served with mountains of crispy homemade chunky chips and a massive pot of mushy peas, Perfect!
The Bill Black pudding & bacon stack ......................................................ÂŁ5.95
A RARTWORK TWORK DEADLINE DATE DEADLINE DATE 18TH SEPTEMBER 17TH AUGUST
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Sizzling steak stir broccoli & noodles ................................ÂŁ12.95 Total............................................ÂŁ37.80
Europe’s top ten
10 S
San Fruttuoso, Liguria
lidays secret beaches revealed Ho
ummer means a beach holiday abroad, but for an unforgettable trip you should steer clear of overcrowded European beaches and escape to one of these lesser known slices of paradise. It’s peak season for beach holidays, and the Mediterranean is one of our most popular destinations. But rather than head to the crowded beaches of the French Riviera or Majorca, where you may struggle to find a spot to place your towel, why not look for something a little more intimate? There are many unspoilt alternatives just waiting for your weary bones, where you won’t be overwhelmed by crowds.
These 10 European beaches are away from the main tourist trails and are all
beloved by locals. Many are perfect for families, while others are off the beaten track and well suited a more intrepid traveller, whose effort will be richly rewarded.
San Fruttuoso, Liguria, Italy This magical location was featured in the Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon TV programme ‘The Trip to Italy’. One scene showed the pair sitting on a terrace gazing at the water with a mediaeval abbey for a backdrop. It’s also easy to access, as it’s halfway between the family resort of Camogli and classy Portofino.
CĂes Islands, Galicia, Spain The top ranked Spanish beach was the CĂes Islands in Galicia, and Rodas in particular, which is the longest beach on the archipelago. It’s part of a national park so visitors are limited to 2,200 and there are no hotels, just a campsite.
Makarska, Dalmatian Coast, Croatia According to the experts, visitors to Croatia shouldn’t ignore the 38-mile Makarska Riviera between Split and Dubrovnik. At the centre is Makarska where you can visit the main square, but the biggest draw is undoubtedly the beach.
Île de Porquerolles, Côte d’Azur, France Porquerolles is a 20-minute boat ride off the French Riviera between Marseille and Cannes. Because it was bought by the French state in the 1970s, it hasn’t been overdeveloped, resulting in an old world charm that is intimate and captivating. The jewel in the region’s crown is the Plage de Notre Dame on the north-eastern corner.
Voutoumi, Antipaxos, Greece While in the Greek Islands, don’t overlook Antipaxos, the smallest of the islands. Voutoumi is a pretty sandy beach surrounded by picturesque clifftops and welcoming tavernas. It’s sparsely populated - the local population is below 100, and there are no shops. If you’re looking for seclusion, you’ve found it.
Caneiros, Algarve, Portugal Caneiros on the Algarve is just 30 minutes from Faro airport and our travel experts say it’s perfect for all ages, with safe water, plenty of sand to play in, pedalos and kayaks to rent, caves to explore and a chic beachside
restaurant. The beach also hires out day beds, and can organise a massage on the beach or a bottle of champagne.
Le Grau-du-Roi, Languedoc, France Le Grau-du-Roi near the Petit Camargue is a favourite for French holidaymakers, but is far less known in the UK. Cycle south out of town to Espiguette and you will be amazed to discover six miles of sandy dunes. A good choice for families.
Cirali, Antalya, Turkey Cirali, Antalya in south-west Turkey is home to endangered loggerhead turtles that lay their eggs there each summer. Development is minimal, making it a perfect choice for nature lovers.
Spiaggia del Laurito, Positano, Italy Italy’s Amalfi Coast is stunningly beautiful but those high cliffs and gorgeous views mean that beaches are often hard to access. Laurito, though, is in the middle of town and is accessible by a steep track or by boat from Positano. Once you’re there, you’re greeted by an enclosed beach and a seafood restaurant to die for.
Cala Codolar, Ibiza, Spain Cala Codolar is recommended because it’s fairly close to Ibiza’s popular Cala Comte, but much less busy. It’s also a good choice for families, which isn’t always the case on the party island.
Cirali, Antalya
Le Grau-du-Roi, Languedoc
Caneiros, Algarve
CĂes Islands, Spain
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PRIZE
24
COMPETITIONS WIN a pair of tickets to see
Belinda Carlisle at Wrexham - William Aston Hall Sunday September 29, 2019
WIN two tickets to see
With their chart-topping debut release Beauty and the Beat in 1981, the group helped popularize new wave music in the United States, and were the first all-female band in history who wrote their own songs and played their own instruments to achieve a No. 1 album. The Go-Go’s have sold over 7 million records worldwide.
The South
To be in with a chance of winning the tickets, just answer the following question:
“How many band members are in The South?� To celebrate their 10th anniversary and 30 years since The Beautiful South released ‘Song For Whoever’, The South are back this Summer, with a 2019 UK Tour playing shows up and down the whole of the UK. The South are an impressive ninepiece band who feature former members of The Beautiful South
To win the tickets, just answer the following question:
including singer Alison Wheeler and lifelong sax player Gaz Birtles. They play the songs made famous by The Beautiful South and bring back the full flavour and arrangements with this exciting live band. After a successful year of touring up and down the country, The South are keeping alive all those timeless songs - A Little Time (the number
one single), Perfect 10, Rotterdam, Song For Whoever, Old Red Eyes Is Back, Good as Gold, Don’t Marry Her plus many more singles and album tracks. All performed again live, these songs span an impressive 20 year career starting way back in 1989!
Come on! Let’s Carry On‌ Regardless!
Friday October 4, 2019; Southport - Atkinson; Box Office No: 01704 533333; Tickets: From ÂŁ22.50; Doors: 7.00pm; Website: www.theatkinson.co.uk/events/the-south-2019/
Alexander O’Neal
WIN two tickets to see at Wrexham - William Aston Hall Friday September 20, 2019
Now she’s back on the road with a very special UK tour this Autumn with the ‘Runaway Horses 30th Anniversary Tour’ in September and October 2019 performing a selection of tracks taken from her 3rd solo album ‘Runaway Horses’.
“What is the name of Berlinda Carlisle’s UK tour?� tour
(featuring former members of The Beautiful South)
at Southport - Atkinson Friday October 4, 2019
Raised in Southern California, Belinda Carlisle began her music career in 1977 as the drummer of the Los Angeles punk band the Germs, going on to join the Go-Go’s as lead singer after the band’s formation in 1978.
After dissolution of the Go-Go’s in 1985, Belinda went on to have a successful solo career with radio hits such as “Mad About You�, “I Get Weak�, “Circle in the Sand�, “Leave a Light On� and “Heaven Is a Place on Earth�, among others, which were major successes in the United States, United Kingdom and internationally as well.
To win the family passes, answer the following question:
“What is the name of Alexander O’Neal’s famous dance floor hit released over 30 years ago?�
Securing his name in the R&B history books, Alexander O’Neal is one of the genres most iconic names. With chart smash ‘Criticize’ lighting up dance floors across the world thirty years after its release, his sound has transcended generations. Working with Prince back in the early days as part of ‘The Time’ his journey in and out of various band formations propelled him to be the solo artist that we best know him for today.
2018 saw the release of Alexander’s first original studio album for 15 years, and fans are in for a treat when they hear how one of the greatest voices of all time has matured into a sensational soul and blues sound. With the release of his hard hitting, blockbuster autobiography in early 2017 and a 50 date UK tour to celebrate 30 years of the iconic Hearsay album, it’s safe to say that fans still can’t get enough of the man from Minneapolis!
Sunday September 29, 2019; Wrexham - William Aston Hall; Box Office No: 0844 249 1000; Tickets: ÂŁ35.75; Doors: 7.30pm; Website: www.vmstickets.co.uk
Friday September 20, 2019; Wrexham - William Aston Hall; Box Office No: 0844 249 1000; Tickets: ÂŁ32.45; Doors: 7.00pm; Website: www.thewilliamastonhall.com/
To enter our competitions please send your full name, address and contact details to
To enter our competitions please send your full name, address and contact details to
reg@insideflintshiremagazine.co.uk (Closing date Friday September 13)
reg@insideflintshiremagazine.co.uk (Closing date Friday September 13) To advertise text ADVERT to: 07446 778 482
30 W
ELCOME TO THE GOOD LIFE...
When we launched the festival back in 2014 (remember that?), we made a conscious choice to focus on more than just music, or food, or craft. Instead we poured our energy into creating a festival full of powerful, memorable and -most importantly- FUN experiences. This is the story of how The Good Life Experience was born... We’ve had boom and bust, mindless consumption and enforced austerity. And interesting things have come out of that austerity; a retreat to values and fashions that seem to encapsulate simpler times, the good old days. We’ve found ourselves yearning for the more honest and straightforward world enjoyed by our parents and grandparents.
Until next month. Reg - Editor Inside Flintshire Magazines T: 01352 870 760 E: reg@insideflintshiremagazine.co.uk Copyright No part of this publication may be reproduced, resold or stored in a retrieval system without the express permission of “Inside Flintshire Magazine� Adverts When providing advertising copy, artwork or photographs from existing sources, it is our customers’ responsibility to ensure that all the appropriate permissions regarding copyright have been obtained from the originator :Inside Flintshire Magazine accepts no liability for copyright issues regarding adverts published in good faith. For full terms and conditions see our web site www.insideflintshiremagazine.co.uk
Freshly battered jumbo cod ......................................................ÂŁ11.95
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Jess Glynne - C -Macaulay Berlinda Carlisle Boyzlife H Fletcher The South Mold FoodO’Neal Festival Alexander - - J Jones
Mussels & King Prawns in White wine sauce ..............................ÂŁ6.95
want not! The Steak was extremely tender and stir fried with fresh courgettes, mushrooms, onions, peppers and garlic. It was just as good as a Chinese stir fry from a Chinese
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Don’t forget to support our local businesses within and please give us a mention if you do use any of their services.
Last months competition winner’s.
We both agreed that we had eaten far too much so declined dessert but if the starters and main courses are anything to go by I’m sure they are superb! We agreed that we will deďŹ nitely return soon and share a starter so we can save room for a dessert. Thanks to the Travelers Inn for a beautiful meal a must try when your next out on your travels.
The Sizzling Steak noodles were just as good and again the portion size was that huge I had to ask for a takeout box, waste not
SuperďŹ cially, this has meant that bicycles and baking, beards and tweed, vintage style and gardening are now more popular than ever; on a deeper level it has meant that millions of people
are returning to craft as a source of solace and comfort, that more people than ever want to get outdoors, to discover and consume things that are made with passion by small business. People are trying to discover what makes them truly happy. At its core this movement can best be deďŹ ned, perhaps, as The Search for The Good Life; a life that’s fulďŹ lled and considered, yes, but is also fun and values the things that matter... family, friends, a real connection with The Great Outdoors, proper food and drink, discovery, music that comes from the soul, great books, craft. All the things that don’t cost a great deal but that make life richer, more rewarding and better fun. SO, WHAT IS THE GOOD LIFE? If it ďŹ ts in with the founders' idea of The
Good Life, it features at the festival; great food, axe throwing, campďŹ re cooking, mass sing-alongs, comedy, beer served by experts, talks by explorers, raucous music, abseiling, a 1930s fairground, butchery displays, poetry, literature, endless How To‌ talks. Everything is aimed at adults and children alike. SOUND LIKE FUN? JOIN US! Tickets to The Good Life Experience are on sale now. Our site is now closer to both Hawarden Old & New Castles, with events taking place in both. Alongside talks and demonstrations in the castle gardens, lake, woodlands and wider parkland. This has made TGLE one of Britain’s most beautiful festivals while retaining our unique mix of talks, craft, food, music and outdoor activities.
and night of Saturday. Camp or stay o-site, book a glamping pitch or bring the campervan. The choice is yours. When we started this festival we had two simple aims; to create something truly unique and to try our very hardest to do things really, really well. So that's the story of how we got here. Stay tuned for line-up announcements, site updates, latest news, pictures and videos of festivals past, and a whole lot more. Sign up for our weekly newsletters and we'll email you once a week to keep you in the loop of all the latest TGLE goings on. We'll never share your information with third parties. And we'll always try our best to bring a smile to your face. You can unsubscribe any time.
The Good Life Experience takes place in the ďŹ elds, woods and lake of the Hawarden Estate.
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38
Nissan Juke: retro with a twist T he Nissan Juke is the SUV that kick-started the trend for jacked-up small cars. It displays the influence of some of Nissan’s crazy late-80s designs, such as the Pao, S-Cargo and Figaro. The idea of the Juke was to combine retro looks with a modern twist and, while ‘retro’ might not immediately spring to mind at first sight, the Juke certainly isn’t afraid of standing out from the pack with its exaggerated and unmistakable visual identity.
However, while the characterful Juke has become a familiar sight on Britain’s roads, it doesn’t seem to have dated since being first showcased over ten years ago. Its distinctive nature, combined with strong resale values, lots of on-board technology and reasonable fuel economy, have helped it remain a big seller even though many other car makers have followed in its footsteps.
Interior
Driving position and dashboard
Motoring around town and helps the car to feel darty and nimble at low speeds. However, it weights up inconsistently as more lock is applied in corners, robbing its driver of confidence.
Suspension and ride comfort The Juke’s suspension is too firm and jittery. Even at low speeds, the car jars harshly over sharp-edged bumps and crests and when negotiating speed bumps in town. Hit a bump at higher speeds, and things get very unsettled. Top versions come with larger alloy wheels that exacerbate this problem.
Handling The Juke’s steering is quick to respond
The steering wheel can be moved up and down, but not in and out, so if you have short arms, you’ll have to slide the seat forward to reach it. Consequently many drivers will find their seating position is compromised and not as comfortable as it should be.
Visibility, parking sensors and cameras A 360-degree Around View monitor is standard on Tekna models, and optional on Nismo RS and Acenta Premium versions. It gives the driver a bird’s eye view of the car when trying to park in a tight spot. It’s a great feature if you find parking a chore.
Performance & drive The Nissan Juke comes with a wide variety of petrol engines but only one diesel. The entry-level 1.6-litre petrol is fine around town but has to be worked very hard on the motorway. A more powerful version is offered, but it’s only available with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT automatic gearbox, which doesn’t suit it.
Getting comfortable in the Nissan Juke won’t be easy for everyone. The front seats are relatively supportive but the backrest adjusts via a plastic handle, with stepped adjustment that means you’ll struggle to find the perfect position.
All but entry-level Visia models come with variable steering that has three different settings, but all this really does is add more resistance to the wheel’s movements. The front tyres also wash wide quite easily through faster bends, while the rear of the car doesn’t feel particularly stable during high-speed direction changes - not a desirable quality in a small family car. The high-performance Nismo version is, again, a slightly sharper car to drive with less body lean in corners, but it still lacks the grip to compete with conventional hatchbacks such as the Ford Fiesta.
The view of the road ahead is otherwise much better than from a conventional hatchback, with the higher seating position enabling you to see farther.
Sat nav and infotainment When it comes to infotainment, there are clear distinctions between trim levels. Entry-level Visia goes without Bluetooth and even a USB connection, while, to gain steering wheel-mounted audio controls, you need to step up to Acenta. Premium and Tekna versions are much better equipped. Their features include a 5.8-inch touchscreen media system with sat-nav, a DAB radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The sat-nav is fairly responsive to inputs and the menus in the media system are simple and easy to navigate.
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tel: 01244 784122 www.thegoodlife experience.co.uk
You can head to TGLE for two or three nights of The Good Life. Or you can head here for the day
To advertise text ADVERT to: 07446 778 482
Visibility, parking sensors and cameras A 360-degree Around View monitor is standard on Tekna models, and optional on Nismo RS and Acenta Premium versions. It gives the driver a bird’s eye view of the car when trying to park in a tight spot. It’s a great feature if you find parking a chore. The view of the road ahead is otherwise much better than from a conventional hatchback, with the higher seating position enabling you to see farther.
Sat nav and infotainment
Boot space
When it comes to infotainment, there are clear distinctions between trim levels. Entry-level Visia goes without Bluetooth and even a USB connection, while, to gain steering wheel-mounted audio controls, you need to step up to Acenta.
One of the biggest improvements made to the Juke during its mid-life refresh was an increase to the size of its luggage area. Barring the fourwheel-drive versions, every Juke now comes with an adjustable boot floor. In its lowest setting you can just about fit a set of golf clubs or a buggy behind the rear bench.
Premium and Tekna versions are much better equipped. Their features include a 5.8-inch touchscreen media system with sat-nav, a DAB radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, as well as an upgraded stereo system.
If you fold the back seats down, the false floor removes the deep lip in the load bay, but the seat backs don’t quite fold flat.
Passenger and boot space
Reliability
Front space
Nissan as a brand disappointed in the most recent What Car? Reliability Survey, finishing 26th out of 31 manufacturers - below Skoda, Seat, Peugeot and Vauxhall.
Every model in the Nissan Juke range comes with driver’s seat height adjustment as standard. However, the low roofline and high driving position mean it feels a little more snug inside than, say, the Kia Soul. There is just about enough elbow room to avoid brushing your passenger by accident but only just.
The warranty is nothing special, though: you get a three-year/60,000mile warranty that includes breakdown cover as standard. Kia and Hyundai offer the longest warranties in the class - up to seven years for the former.
Safety and security Although it lacks hill-hold assist, the reasonably priced Tech Pack includes a 360-degree parking camera, lanekeeping assistance and a moving object detection system. There’s a less expensive Safety Pack that includes the 360-degree parking camera and lane keeping assistance, too. Few cars in the Juke’s price range and class are offered with such an extensive range of safety equipment. scored highly for everything except pedestrian protection.
The Juke itself performed better, however, coming 5th out of 11 other small SUVs.
Rear space If you’re taller than average, you’ll be more comfortable in the front of the Juke than in the back. Its roof is steeply sloped, so head room is really tight, and the narrow, tinted rear windows and dark roof lining make occupants feel even more hemmed in. On the plus side, there’s a pair of useful, bottle-shaped door bins, and the central tunnel doesn’t obstruct the foot wells, even in fourwheel-drive variants. To advertise text ADVERT to: 07446 778 482
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his month we were keen to visit the all new Gastro style pub the Travellers Inn which is conveniently situated junction 30 on the A55 Expressway, Caerwys. After undergoing a major transformation from a ďŹ re which broke out in the kitchen on February 18th, 2018, thankfully no one was seriously hurt but the kitchen was completely destroyed and the whole building was severely smoke damaged. The owner Doug Gelder whilst recovering from injuries caused by the ďŹ re made the decision to radically transform the main dining area and toilet facilities which a substantial investment was needed. With much hard work from local tradesmen the Travellers inn doors re opened exactly 6 months after the tragic ďŹ re. Previously predominately a Carvery eatery this is
6
now only served on a Sunday, they now focus on a great selection of food from lite bites ,traditional and a few unique specials, all home cooked using local fresh produce supporting local businesses.
We were greeted with a warm welcome from the sta and were surprised at the dierence in the overall feel to the Travellers; it was extremely light and airy with a modern feel, although still keeping some rustic charm in the ďŹ xtures and ďŹ ttings. The new dining area has a modern log burner and in the seated bar area a much more traditional one, both I imagine to be extremely cosy in the chillier months.
For starters Reg immediately chose the ďŹ rst thing on the menu Black pudding and bacon stack ,I choose the last but deďŹ nitely not the least , Mussels and King Prawns in a white wine sauce. The starters took ample time to come out which we have no problem with as this suggests the food is being freshly cooked and not placed in a microwave oven.
We were certainly not disappointed when the food arrived the presentation was incredible! The Black pudding and Bacon stack which was topped with a cooked to perfection poached egg with a brilliant orange yolk, in Regs contentment he
Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements
restaurant so full credit to the chef in producing two very different dishes but both first class!
decided that this was the best black pudding stack he had ever tasted as he swiftly cleared the plate. I had plumped for the King Prawn and Mussels in White wine sauce, again the presentation was amazing and the portion size huge, the Prawns and Mussels were steamed in creamy white wine sauce which was beautiful, the Mussels were served with a chunk of warm sour Dough bread a perfect accompaniment to mop up the indulgent White wine sauce. For our Mains, Reg opted for freshly battered Jumbo Cod and I decided on Sizzling Steak stir fry noodles with Garlic and Broccoli. On arrival we were astounded at the portion sizes in all the years we have been doing the food reviews we have never had such huge portions. In the description it did say “Jumbo” but by gosh this was a sea monster of a cod,
it was by far the biggest we have ever had. The fish was fresh and tasty but let’s face it without the crispy coating of the batter this is irrelevant, this one certainly lived up to being the star of the show! This was served with mountains of crispy homemade chunky chips and a massive pot of mushy peas, Perfect! The Sizzling Steak noodles were just as good and again the portion size was that huge I had to ask for a takeout box, waste not
We both agreed that we had eaten far too much so declined dessert but if the starters and main courses are anything to go by I’m sure they are superb! We agreed that we will definitely return soon and share a starter so we can save room for a dessert. Thanks to the Travelers Inn for a beautiful meal a must try when your next out on your travels.
The Bill Black pudding & bacon stack ......................................................£5.95
want not! The Steak was extremely tender and stir fried with fresh courgettes, mushrooms, onions, peppers and garlic. It was just as good as a Chinese stir fry from a Chinese
Mussels & King Prawns in White wine sauce ..............................£6.95 Freshly battered jumbo cod ......................................................£11.95 Sizzling steak stir broccoli & noodles ................................£12.95 Total............................................£37.80
To advertise text ADVERT to: 07446 778 482
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Europe’s top ten lo idays secret beaches revealed H
ummer means a beach holiday abroad, but for an unforgettable trip you should steer clear of overcrowded European beaches and escape to one of these lesser known slices of paradise. It’s peak season for beach holidays, and the Mediterranean is one of our most popular destinations. But rather than head to the crowded beaches of the French Riviera or Majorca, where you may struggle to find a spot to place your towel, why not look for something a little more intimate? There are many unspoilt alternatives just waiting for your weary bones, where you won’t be overwhelmed by crowds.
These 10 European beaches are away from the main tourist trails and are all
beloved by locals. Many are perfect for families, while others are off the beaten track and well suited a more intrepid traveller, whose effort will be richly rewarded.
San Fruttuoso, Liguria, Italy This magical location was featured in the Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon TV programme ‘The Trip to Italy’. One scene showed the pair sitting on a terrace gazing at the water with a mediaeval abbey for a backdrop. It’s also easy to access, as it’s halfway between the family resort of Camogli and classy Portofino.
Cíes Islands, Galicia, Spain The top ranked Spanish beach was the Cíes Islands in Galicia, and Rodas in particular, which is the longest beach on the archipelago. It’s part of a national park so visitors are limited to 2,200 and there are no hotels, just a campsite.
Makarska, Dalmatian Coast, Croatia According to the experts, visitors to Croatia shouldn’t ignore the 38-mile Makarska Riviera between Split and Dubrovnik. At the centre is Makarska where you can visit the main square, but the biggest draw is undoubtedly the beach.
Île de Porquerolles, Côte d’Azur, France Porquerolles is a 20-minute boat ride off the French Riviera between Marseille and Cannes. Because it was bought by the French state in the 1970s, it hasn’t been overdeveloped, resulting in an old world charm that is intimate and captivating. The jewel in the region’s crown is the Plage de Notre Dame on the north-eastern corner.
Le Grau-du-Roi, Languedoc 10
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San Fruttuoso, Liguria
Voutoumi, Antipaxos, Greece While in the Greek Islands, don’t overlook Antipaxos, the smallest of the islands. Voutoumi is a pretty sandy beach surrounded by picturesque clifftops and welcoming tavernas. It’s sparsely populated - the local population is below 100, and there are no shops. If you’re looking for seclusion, you’ve found it.
Caneiros, Algarve, Portugal Caneiros on the Algarve is just 30 minutes from Faro airport and our travel experts say it’s perfect for all ages, with safe water, plenty of sand to play in, pedalos and kayaks to rent, caves to explore and a chic beachside
restaurant. The beach also hires out day beds, and can organise a massage on the beach or a bottle of champagne.
Le Grau-du-Roi, Languedoc, France Le Grau-du-Roi near the Petit Camargue is a favourite for French holidaymakers, but is far less known in the UK. Cycle south out of town to Espiguette and you will be amazed to discover six miles of sandy dunes. A good choice for families.
Cirali, Antalya, Turkey Cirali, Antalya in south-west Turkey is home to endangered loggerhead turtles that lay their eggs there each summer. Development is minimal, making it a perfect choice for nature lovers.
Spiaggia del Laurito, Positano, Italy Italy’s Amalfi Coast is stunningly beautiful but those high cliffs and gorgeous views mean that beaches are often hard to access. Laurito, though, is in the middle of town and is accessible by a steep track or by boat from Positano. Once you’re there, you’re greeted by an enclosed beach and a seafood restaurant to die for.
Cala Codolar, Ibiza, Spain Cala Codolar is recommended because it’s fairly close to Ibiza’s popular Cala Comte, but much less busy. It’s also a good choice for families, which isn’t always the case on the party island.
Cirali, Antalya
Caneiros, Algarve
Cíes Islands, Spain To advertise text ADVERT to: 07446 778 482
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How to hide your TV with style! build a box and add some doors to it to accomplish the same thing. This also gives you the flexibility to finish it however you want. You could even use artwork or mirrors on the front if you really want to jazz it up a bit.
Looking for an easy way to disguise or hide the TV in your room? Whether you want to DIY a TV art cover or buy a TV cabinet, this list of ideas will help. Televisions have long been the Achilles heel of interior decorators, with most homes having at least one. They tend to be installed and watched in the main room in the house. And they aren’t that pretty to look at.
Hide it behind a DIY painting If the TV is hung on a fairly large wall (at least twice the width of the screen), then this sliding artwork could be a good way to hide the TV. It’s built like a mini version of a barn door that is just big enough to cover your television. Creating the art as two pictures that can hang on their own means that it looks really good when the artwork is open, too …like it is meant to be there!
Make a DIY TV art cover Another option for hiding the TV behind a painting is to make a DIY TV art cover. It is hidden by what looks like a framed picture. Get a photograph printed on a canvas and hang it on the wall over the TV with a roller shade kit. Then build a frame around the edge of the picture that hides the sides of the TV and the chain
Hang it on a dark-coloured wall
from the roller shade.
Buy a TV that IS art If you really want to go all out (and don’t mind spending a little money), you can actually buy a TV that looks like art when it is turned off. They are available with pre-installed artwork that you can choose from, or you can upload your own pictures if you prefer. It even has different frame color options if you want to make sure the “art” blends in with the rest of your pictures.
A wall-hung TV cabinet Flat screen TV covers are boxes that are intended to be installed over the television. They have doors that fold back when you want to watch TV, and can be closed when you don’t want to see the TV. If you prefer a DIY project, you could
Now we are on to the options that are disguising the TV rather than totally hiding it. One of the easiest ways to do this is to hang the TV on a dark colored wall. That way the dark color of the TV screen blends into the background and doesn’t stand out as much.
Get a TV lift cabinet If you really want to get fancy about hiding your TV, a TV lift cabinet is the way to go. The television slides down into the box when you’re not using it and pops up when you are. It is a little more expensive than some of the other options, but it definitely keeps the television set out of view.
Buy a TV mirror You can also buy televisions that have a mirror front. When they are turned off they look just like a large mirror. When you turn them on the mirror disappears and you see only the television picture. Your Christmas decorations on the fireplace mantel will look much better with this hanging over top of them!
Left: TV as art Top right: TV cabinet Right: TV mirror
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Health
How to get a good night’s sleep
W
hether you’re a full eight hours person or can get by on a mean lean four, quality sleep time is the key to a productive and happy day. We spend about a third of our lives asleep. Up to one third of the population suffers from insomnia, with common mental health problems such as stress, anxiety and depression often underpinning sleep problems, and likewise, poor sleep often leading to poor mental health.’ So put a spring in your step with our top tips for restful snoozing. Read on to discover how to sleep better.
Invest in blackout blinds Black-out blinds or curtains will limit light at night time. This is crucial, as
light interferes with melatonin production. Melatonin, incidentally, is the hormone that encourages us to go to sleep.
Put away your phone It’s useful to avoid looking at phones/ screens/TVs for at least half an hour before you’re due for some shut eye. Try to avoid having electronic devices in the bedroom, full stop - or use a blue-light filtering app or mode.’ Again, this is because that blue light will stop your body from producing melatonin, the hormone that induces sleep.
Stick to a routine This one might be easier said than done, but try your best to stick to a similar bedtime routine - this means going to bed at the same time each evening and getting up at the same time each morning. Try to keep to a similar wind-down routine before you go to sleep so your body and mind knows when its time for shut eye.
Get the right amount of sleep You need to know how much sleep you need to feel good. It’s likely to be seven to eight hours, but it could be as little as four. Try keeping a sleep diary or tracking your sleep with a wearable device (ideally not your phone). If you have a good idea of how much sleep you need to feel good and what affects your sleep, you can make sure you establish good habits, or pinpoint issues.
Watch what and when you eat and drink As a rule, eating less than two hours before bed means that food hasn’t had time to digest before we try
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and sleep. This can lead to discomfort and indigestion. Fatty or spicy foods can take longer to process and stimulants like caffeine or sugar can give us a boost of energy when we want to be winding down. Rice, oats and dairy products can encourage us to feel sleepy.
Avoid alcohol We like to think that alcohol makes us sleep better. It may help us nod off, but the quality of the sleep you get may be poor, and dehydration or a late-night takeaway can further impair our sleep.
Don’t exercise in the evening Exercise is great for mental health and regular light exercise is a good way to improve sleep. Exercise floods the body with feel-good hormones that stimulate our minds and bodies, so beware of exercising late at night as it can actually keep us awake.
Don’t take a nap Sometimes it’s easy to give in to sleep on the train or bus home after a busy day. And a short can gee you up. But that’s just it …they have literally stolen some of your sleep ‘fuel’. If you nod off, even for a short time, you can short circuit the natural hormone surges that set us up for our main sleep. Therefore you need to regain it again if you still expect to sleep a solid 8 hours of quality sleep.
Find ways to address anxiety and worry Health is one of our biggest worries. If you lie awake mulling over concerns about your health, or the health of a loved one, you could try meditation or a mindfulness technique to help settle your internal worries. They won’t necessarily make you sleep instantly, but they will help you avoid stress, and therefore prevent sleep problems in the future.
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The Laura Ashley Kitchen Collection is now available to view at:
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PRIZE
COMPETITIONS WIN a pair of tickets to see
Belinda Carlisle at Wrexham - William Aston Hall Sunday September 29, 2019
Raised in Southern California, Belinda Carlisle began her music career in 1977 as the drummer of the Los Angeles punk band the Germs, going on to join the Go-Go’s as lead singer after the band’s formation in 1978. With their chart-topping debut release Beauty and the Beat in 1981, the group helped popularize new wave music in the United States, and were the first all-female band in history who wrote their own songs and played their own instruments to achieve a No. 1 album. The Go-Go’s have sold over 7 million records worldwide. After dissolution of the Go-Go’s in 1985, Belinda went on to have a successful solo career with radio hits such as “Mad About You”, “I Get Weak”, “Circle in the Sand”, “Leave a Light On” and “Heaven Is a Place on Earth”, among others, which were major successes in the United States, United Kingdom and internationally as well. Now she’s back on the road with a very special UK tour this Autumn with the ‘Runaway Horses 30th Anniversary Tour’ in September and October 2019 performing a selection of tracks taken from her 3rd solo album ‘Runaway Horses’.
To win the tickets, just answer the following question:
“What is the name of Berlinda Carlisle’s UK tour?” tour Sunday September 29, 2019; Wrexham - William Aston Hall; Box Office No: 0844 249 1000; Tickets: £35.75; Doors: 7.30pm; Website: www.vmstickets.co.uk
To enter our competitions please send your full name, address and contact details to
reg@insideflintshiremagazine.co.uk (Closing date Friday September 13) 24
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WIN two tickets to see
The South
(featuring former members of The Beautiful South)
at Southport - Atkinson Friday October 4, 2019
To be in with a chance of winning the tickets, just answer the following question:
“How many band members are in The South?” To celebrate their 10th anniversary and 30 years since The Beautiful South released ‘Song For Whoever’, The South are back this Summer, with a 2019 UK Tour playing shows up and down the whole of the UK. The South are an impressive ninepiece band who feature former members of The Beautiful South
including singer Alison Wheeler and lifelong sax player Gaz Birtles. They play the songs made famous by The Beautiful South and bring back the full flavour and arrangements with this exciting live band. After a successful year of touring up and down the country, The South are keeping alive all those timeless songs - A Little Time (the number
one single), Perfect 10, Rotterdam, Song For Whoever, Old Red Eyes Is Back, Good as Gold, Don’t Marry Her plus many more singles and album tracks. All performed again live, these songs span an impressive 20 year career starting way back in 1989!
Come on! Let’s Carry On… Regardless!
Friday October 4, 2019; Southport - Atkinson; Box Office No: 01704 533333; Tickets: From £22.50; Doors: 7.00pm; Website: www.theatkinson.co.uk/events/the-south-2019/
Alexander O’Neal
WIN two tickets to see at Wrexham - William Aston Hall Friday September 20, 2019
To win the family passes, answer the following question:
“What is the name of Alexander O’Neal’s famous dance floor hit released over 30 years ago?”
Securing his name in the R&B history books, Alexander O’Neal is one of the genres most iconic names. With chart smash ‘Criticize’ lighting up dance floors across the world thirty years after its release, his sound has transcended generations. Working with Prince back in the early days as part of ‘The Time’ his journey in and out of various band formations propelled him to be the solo artist that we best know him for today.
2018 saw the release of Alexander’s first original studio album for 15 years, and fans are in for a treat when they hear how one of the greatest voices of all time has matured into a sensational soul and blues sound. With the release of his hard hitting, blockbuster autobiography in early 2017 and a 50 date UK tour to celebrate 30 years of the iconic Hearsay album, it’s safe to say that fans still can’t get enough of the man from Minneapolis!
Friday September 20, 2019; Wrexham - William Aston Hall; Box Office No: 0844 249 1000; Tickets: £32.45; Doors: 7.00pm; Website: www.thewilliamastonhall.com/
To enter our competitions please send your full name, address and contact details to
reg@insideflintshiremagazine.co.uk (Closing date Friday September 13) Last months winner’s on page 4
To advertise text ADVERT to: 07446 778 482
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Lasagne Al Forno This classic lasagne recipe has been perfected over the years. For the best results leave lasagne to stand for six hours before cooking.
Method 1 Preheat the oven to160C/325F/ Gas 3. 2 For the ragu, heat a large frying pan until hot and add the oil. Cook the mince until browned all over. Remove from the heat and transfer to a plate. Add the onion, celery (if using) and garlic to the pan and
cook until softened. Return the meat to the pan and stir in the flour. Add the stock and bring to the boil. Add the redcurrant jelly (or sugar), tomato purée and thyme, then stir well.
base of a 2.3 litre/4 pint shallow ovenproof dish. Spoon one third of the white sauce on top. Arrange one layer of lasagne sheets on top. Season. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce on top and then half of the white sauce. Put another layer of lasagne sheets on top, then the remaining meat sauce and remaining white sauce. Sprinkle over the cheddar cheese.
3 Stir in the canned tomatoes. Bring to the boil again, cover and simmer in the oven for 1-½ hours, or until the beef is tender. 4 For the white sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan. Add the flour and cook over the heat for one minute. Gradually whisk in the hot milk, whisking until thickened. Add the Dijon mustard and parmesan cheese and season well with salt and pepper.
6 Leave for six hours before cooking so that the pasta can start to soften. 7 Preheat the oven temperature to 200C/400F/Gas 6. 8 Cook in the middle of the oven for about 45 minutes- or until golden brown on top, bubbling around the edges and the pasta is soft.
5 For the lasagne, put one third of the meat sauce in the
Ingredients For the ragu ● 2 tbsp olive oil ● 900g/2lb beef mince ● 2 onions, roughly chopped ● 4 sticks celery, diced (optional) ● 2 garlic cloves, crushed ● 2 level tbsp plain flour ● 150ml/¼ pint beef stock ● 1 tbsp redcurrant jelly or 1 tsp caster sugar ● 3 tbsp tomato purée ● 1 tbsp chopped thyme ● 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
For the white sauce ● 50g/2oz butter ● 50g/2oz plain flour ● 750ml/1¼ pints hot milk ● 2 tsp Dijon mustard ● 50g/2oz Parmesan, finely grated ● salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the lasagne ● 12 lasagne sheets ● 75g/3oz mature cheddar, grated
Prep: Under 30min
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Cook: Over 2 hours
Serves: 8
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40 YEARS IN MOLD
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ELCOME TO THE GOOD LIFE...
When we launched the festival back in 2014 (remember that?), we made a conscious choice to focus on more than just music, or food, or craft. Instead we poured our energy into creating a festival full of powerful, memorable and -most importantly- FUN experiences. This is the story of how The Good Life Experience was born... We’ve had boom and bust, mindless consumption and enforced austerity. And interesting things have come out of that austerity; a retreat to values and fashions that seem to encapsulate simpler times, the good old days. We’ve found ourselves yearning for the more honest and straightforward world enjoyed by our parents and grandparents. Superficially, this has meant that bicycles and baking, beards and tweed, vintage style and gardening are now more popular than ever; on a deeper level it has meant that millions of people
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are returning to craft as a source of solace and comfort, that more people than ever want to get outdoors, to discover and consume things that are made with passion by small business. People are trying to discover what makes them truly happy. At its core this movement can best be defined, perhaps, as The Search for The Good Life; a life that’s fulfilled and considered, yes, but is also fun and values the things that matter... family, friends, a real connection with The Great Outdoors, proper food and drink, discovery, music that comes from the soul, great books, craft. All the things that don’t cost a great deal but that make life richer, more rewarding and better fun. SO, WHAT IS THE GOOD LIFE? If it fits in with the founders' idea of The
Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements
Good Life, it features at the festival; great food, axe throwing, campfire cooking, mass sing-alongs, comedy, beer served by experts, talks by explorers, raucous music, abseiling, a 1930s fairground, butchery displays, poetry, literature, endless How To… talks. Everything is aimed at adults and children alike. SOUND LIKE FUN? JOIN US! Tickets to The Good Life Experience are on sale now. Our site is now closer to both Hawarden Old & New Castles, with events taking place in both. Alongside talks and demonstrations in the castle gardens, lake, woodlands and wider parkland. This has made TGLE one of Britain’s most beautiful festivals while retaining our unique mix of talks, craft, food, music and outdoor activities. You can head to TGLE for two or three nights of The Good Life. Or you can head here for the day
and night of Saturday. Camp or stay off-site, book a glamping pitch or bring the campervan. The choice is yours. When we started this festival we had two simple aims; to create something truly unique and to try our very hardest to do things really, really well. So that's the story of how we got here. Stay tuned for line-up announcements, site updates, latest news, pictures and videos of festivals past, and a whole lot more. Sign up for our weekly newsletters and we'll email you once a week to keep you in the loop of all the latest TGLE goings on. We'll never share your information with third parties. And we'll always try our best to bring a smile to your face. You can unsubscribe any time.
tel: 01244 784122 www.thegoodlife experience.co.uk The Good Life Experience takes place in the fields, woods and lake of the Hawarden Estate.
To advertise text ADVERT to: 07446 778 482
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Films
The pick of the new movies
Ad Astra Astronaut Roy McBride (Brad Pitt) travels to the outer edges of the solar system to find his father and unravel a mystery that threatens the survival of our planet. He uncovers secrets which challenge the nature of human existence and our place in the cosmos. Roy also unearths some shocking revelations about his father over the course of the story, delving deeper into his past as he searches for the truth about his father's whereabouts. Writer-director James Gray was inspired to write Ad Astra after researching the first nuclear chain reaction in Stagg Field in the 1940s. At the time, some feared
The Goldfinch Theodore “Theo” Decker was 13 years old when his mother was killed in a bombing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The tragedy changes the course of his life, sending him on a stirring odyssey of grief and guilt, reinvention and redemption, and even love. Through it all, he holds on to one tangible piece of hope from that terrible day...a painting of a tiny bird chained to its perch, 'The Goldfinch'.
Released: September 27, 2019 Genre: Drama
that the experiment would set off a dangerous, unstoppable reaction: “science out of control,”
Genre: Adventure, Drama Director: James Gray Cast: Brad Pitt, Liv Tyler, Tommy
Released: September 18, 2019
Lee Jones
It: Chapter Two
themselves “The Losers Club”. In chapter two, the gang is 27 years older, and determined to put an end to It.
A sequel to the 2017 film, this second chapter is yet another long-awaited, Stephen King-based, creeps-inducing production. The first film followed the disappearance of seven-year old Georgie and the ensuing persecution by an unknown force, called “It”, of his teenage brother and his gang, who call
Released: September 6, 2019 Genre: Horror, Thriller Director: Andy Muschietti Cast: Finn Wolfhard, Bill Skarsgård, Jessica Chastain
Director: John Crowley Cast: Finn Wolfhard, Nicole Kidman, Sarah Paulson
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Nissan Juke: retro with a twist T he Nissan Juke is the SUV that kick-started the trend for jacked-up small cars. It displays the influence of some of Nissan’s crazy late-80s designs, such as the Pao, S-Cargo and Figaro. The idea of the Juke was to combine retro looks with a modern twist and, while ‘retro’ might not immediately spring to mind at first sight, the Juke certainly isn’t afraid of standing out from the pack with its exaggerated and unmistakable visual identity.
However, while the characterful Juke has become a familiar sight on Britain’s roads, it doesn’t seem to have dated since being first showcased over ten years ago. Its distinctive nature, combined with strong resale values, lots of on-board technology and reasonable fuel economy, have helped it remain a big seller even though many other car makers have followed in its footsteps.
Interior
Driving position and dashboard
Motoring around town and helps the car to feel darty and nimble at low speeds. However, it weights up inconsistently as more lock is applied in corners, robbing its driver of confidence.
Suspension and ride comfort The Juke’s suspension is too firm and jittery. Even at low speeds, the car jars harshly over sharp-edged bumps and crests and when negotiating speed bumps in town. Hit a bump at higher speeds, and things get very unsettled. Top versions come with larger alloy wheels that exacerbate this problem.
Handling The Juke’s steering is quick to respond
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The steering wheel can be moved up and down, but not in and out, so if you have short arms, you’ll have to slide the seat forward to reach it. Consequently many drivers will find their seating position is compromised and not as comfortable as it should be.
Visibility, parking sensors and cameras A 360-degree Around View monitor is standard on Tekna models, and optional on Nismo RS and Acenta Premium versions. It gives the driver a bird’s eye view of the car when trying to park in a tight spot. It’s a great feature if you find parking a chore.
Performance & drive The Nissan Juke comes with a wide variety of petrol engines but only one diesel. The entry-level 1.6-litre petrol is fine around town but has to be worked very hard on the motorway. A more powerful version is offered, but it’s only available with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT automatic gearbox, which doesn’t suit it.
Getting comfortable in the Nissan Juke won’t be easy for everyone. The front seats are relatively supportive but the backrest adjusts via a plastic handle, with stepped adjustment that means you’ll struggle to find the perfect position.
All but entry-level Visia models come with variable steering that has three different settings, but all this really does is add more resistance to the wheel’s movements. The front tyres also wash wide quite easily through faster bends, while the rear of the car doesn’t feel particularly stable during high-speed direction changes - not a desirable quality in a small family car. The high-performance Nismo version is, again, a slightly sharper car to drive with less body lean in corners, but it still lacks the grip to compete with conventional hatchbacks such as the Ford Fiesta.
The view of the road ahead is otherwise much better than from a conventional hatchback, with the higher seating position enabling you to see farther.
Sat nav and infotainment When it comes to infotainment, there are clear distinctions between trim levels. Entry-level Visia goes without Bluetooth and even a USB connection, while, to gain steering wheel-mounted audio controls, you need to step up to Acenta. Premium and Tekna versions are much better equipped. Their features include a 5.8-inch touchscreen media system with sat-nav, a DAB radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The sat-nav is fairly responsive to inputs and the menus in the media system are simple and easy to navigate.
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Passenger and boot space Front space Every model in the Nissan Juke range comes with driver’s seat height adjustment as standard. However, the low roofline and high driving position mean it feels a little more snug inside than, say, the Kia Soul. There is just about enough elbow room to avoid brushing your passenger by accident but only just.
Rear space If you’re taller than average, you’ll be more comfortable in the front of the Juke than in the back. Its roof is steeply sloped, so head room is really tight, and the narrow, tinted rear windows and dark roof lining make occupants feel even more hemmed in. On the plus side, there’s a pair of useful, bottle-shaped door bins, and the central tunnel doesn’t obstruct the foot wells, even in four-wheel-drive variants.
Boot space One of the biggest improvements made to the Juke during its mid-life refresh was an increase to the size of its luggage area. Barring the fourwheel-drive versions, every Juke now comes with an adjustable boot floor. In its lowest setting you can just about fit a set of golf clubs or a buggy behind the rear bench.
Reliability Nissan as a brand disappointed in the most recent What Car? Reliability Survey, finishing 26th out of 31 manufacturers - below Skoda, Seat, Peugeot and Vauxhall. The Juke itself performed better, however, coming 5thout of 11 other small SUVs. The warranty is nothing special, though: you get a three-year/60,000mile warranty that includes breakdown cover as standard. Kia and Hyundai offer the longest warranties in the class - up to seven years for the former.
lane-keeping assistance and a moving object detection system. There’s a less expensive Safety Pack that includes the 360-degree parking camera and lane keeping assistance, too. Few cars in the Juke’s price range and class are offered with such an extensive range of safety equipment. scored highly for everything except pedestrian protection.
Safety and security Although it lacks hill-hold assist, the reasonably priced Tech Pack includes a 360-degree parking camera,
If you fold the back seats down, the false floor removes the deep lip in the load bay, but the seat backs don’t quite fold flat.
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Garden path ideas
Find some inspiration for your yard with one of these beautiful garden path ideas and learn which ones will fit your budget and which ones will break your back!
Cons
1 Composite wood tile pathway
3 Brick garden pathway
Pros
Most tile gets pretty slippery when it’s wet, so these wouldn’t be a good option for a main walkway. And lugging around all of the concrete blocks to install the tiles on does not sound like a lot of fun!
Pros
Composite wood tiles are very easy to install (it can be done in less than a day), require very little maintenance and they are flat (no problems rolling the cart across this area).
Bricks have the same positive features as flagstones. They are durable and easy to maintain. And since they’re all the same thickness, they should be easier to install than flagstones.
Cons
Cons
They do have one drawback, however. Even when installing a light color to minimise the heat they attract, they can get really, really hot in the sun. It’s impossible to walk on them in bare feet and they are also more expensive than regular wood.
You do need to make sure that your base material is totally level or your walkway will look wavy. This may be harder than it sounds. Bricks can also be fairly expensive.
2 Stepping stone garden path
Pros
Pros if you have leftover tile from previous projects, get it all out of the garage and add some whimsy to your garden path at the same time... which definitely makes this an inexpensive project!
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4 Pebble mosaic walkway Since it’s based in concrete, this mosaic pathway is durable and easy to navigate. And you can make it in whatever pattern or size you want, so it can fit into any garden space.
Cons Positioning all of those stones in the
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right pattern is pretty time consuming, so it’s not something t to do on a big scale.
5 Wood walkway Pros A wood path is easy to roll over with a cart, easy on the feet and about middle of the pack when it comes to amount of installation work and expense it requires.
Cons The main drawback for using wood is the amount of annual maintenance it needs.
6 Mulch garden path Pros Mulch garden paths are really easy and relatively inexpensive way to create a pathway. Put down some landscape fabric, spread the mulch over and you’re done.
Cons You do have to replace the mulch every year or two. And when you put a fresh batch down, it’s hard to wheel over until it gets beat down a bit. Plus, the weeds seem to think the mulch on the garden path is the perfect place to grow!
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