The Cheshire Magazine - July/August 22

JULY/AUGUST 2022 s ISSUE 097

MAKING WAVES

in the Superyacht WORLD Njord by Bergman Design House

It’s Very Nice Here, SHALL WE STAY?

Why a relocation to Marbella may be the best move for you

The frameless insulated sliding doors by Swiss manufacturer Sky-Frame blend naturally into their surroundings, creating a seamless continuity between indoors and outdoors and blurring the line between where the living space ends and the view begins. SKY-FRAME.COM

Authorised Sky-Frame distribution partner for the UK

CLEAR LIVING LTD. Ellesmore House | Wincham Avenue | Northwich | Cheshire | CW9 6GH +44 1606 45109 | info@clear-living.co.uk | www.clear-living.co.uk

A Luxury Health Club that dares to be

di fferent!

CYCLO

One of the world’s best skill bike studios with a 10m2 video wall

INFERNO

Home to one of the toughest bootcamp sessions in Cheshire

OXYGEN

Find your sense of balance, peace and purpose

Access All Areas Inclusive Membership available at:

CPASE.CO.UK

BRAND NEW Signature swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool and wellness area allows you to relax, recover and rejuvenate in serene • Salt crystal steam room • Sauna • Infrared sauna • On-site cryotherapy chamber -140oC • UK’s first beauty light therapy machine • Subsidised elite personal training sessions • Unique changing rooms, amenities include towels/beauty products etc.

• APRIL’S Kitchen dedicated members’ private dining

0156 533 2022 INFO@CPASE.CO.UK Find us at Mobberley / Knutsford / WA16 7RN

CPASE @claresspacecheshire

J U L Y / AU G U S T 2 0 2 2 s ISSUE 097 s

Managing Director Kathryn Otto Editor Craig Hough Editorial Team Kevin Evans Toby Taylor Isla Wilson Contributers James Fossdyke Clare Stobart Martine Alexander Phil Aird-Mash James Dutfield Design & Production Kate Woods Picture Editor Kat Hannon Account Manager Charlotte Ducie Brand Ambassadors Keely Barrett Sarah Irlam Charity and Event’s Coordinator Rachel O’Hare

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A Note From...

F

or many of us, this summer represents a thrilling return to serious travel and in this issue we get you prepped for a season of globetrotting. From three of the best new hotels (p.20) to our list of ultra-luxurious villas available to rent (p.60) we have you covered.

We start with Sarah Colbon (p.22), who discusses her latest superyacht project, Galaxy, which was completed after a record-breaking five-month refit, and is the first-ever superyacht to have a private member’s club designed onboard that turns into a multi-sensory space and cinema lounge.

Over in Style, Powells Jewellery takes us on a trip around the globe showcasing a variety of nature’s gemstones (p.28) and we look at adding a little colour to your summer with RIANNA + NINA’s new collection (p.34).

In Family, we highlight the travel essentials you need for the summer holidays (p.48), look at some pawsum travel products for pets (p.50) and our Resident Vet advises on Animal Health Certificates (p.52).

This month our Travel Insider offers his advice on booking your bucket-list experiences (p.61), we spend a weekend of fun in the sun at Meliá Jardines Del Teide in Costa Adeje (p.69) and Mark FR Wilkins breaks down why relocating to Marbella may be the best move for you (p.90).

Also this issue, we have chosen our favourite outdoor dining essentials in Food and Drink (p.54), James Fossdyke test drives the Aston Martin DBX in Drive (p. 76) and we have a look around a million dollar penthouse in Miami in Home (p.85).

There is so much to enjoy in our travel issue, so climb on board, kick back and enjoy.

Where to find us...

CHESTER 1539 Restaurant DD Clinical Gieves & Hawkes Opera Bar & Grill Piccolino’s Oddfellows Pied Bull The White Horse Powells Jewellery

LIVERPOOL Harvey Nichols Beauty Bazaar David M Robinson

MANCHESTER David M Robinson Gotham Hotel Kimpton Clock Tower Harvey Nichols Hilton Manchester Deansgate King Street Townhouse Mappin & Webb Rosso Restaurant Bar & Grill Watches of Switzerland 20 Stories Oddfellows on the Park

CHESHIRE Carden Park Hotel Mottram Hall Spa Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet The Mere Cottons Hotel The Colony Wilmslow Luciano Alderley Edge Guncast Pools & Wellness

Happy reading,

Havwoods International Knutsford Sofas and Stuff Knutsford

Team Cheshire Magazine

PROUD TO

PARTNER

Cpase Knutsford

cover On the

Woman in bikini relaxes on a yacht Photograph - Sven Hansche

Follow us @thecheshiremagazine @TheCheshireMagazine @TheCheshireMag

Would you like to be part of the family, receiving Cheshire’s premiere lifestyle magazine right to your front door each month, you can now subscribe easily online. Get your own, beautifully printed copy from as little as £3.50

Subscribe today by visiting: www.thecheshiremagazine.co.uk/subscribe

Stars of the Llyn Peninsula Collection...

As night falls in the Llyn Peninsula, stargazers are awed by celestial beauty. Inspired by the Welsh skies that provide this spectacular light show, these sterling silver and 9ct rose gold pieces containing rare Welsh are set with dazzling genuine faceted white topaz. It’s a beautiful symbol of nature’s capacity to calm and enthral us.

www.clogau.co.uk

Contents

A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITES

22

MAKING WAVES

28

GEMS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

90

IT’S NICE HERE, SHALL WE STAY?

50

With Njord by Bergman Design Housey

FAMILY

PETS CORNER

Pawsum products for travelling with your furry friend

FOOD & DRINK

57

From Powells Jewellery

ALL ABOARD

East Lancashire Railway’s dining experiences

TRAVEL

Why a relocation to Marbella may be the best move for you

STYLE

33

FAHION FORWARD

34

COLOURS FOR SUMMER

Top tips on packing efficiently for your summer holiday

66

40 WINKS

69

THE ISLAND OF ETERNAL SPRING

Treat yourself to a restful retreat with Pride of Britain Hotels

A weekend of fun in the sun at Meliá Jardines Del Teide

RIANNA + NINA’s new collection

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLNESS

45 REGULARS

13 20 51

MY LIFE IN...

FIND YOUR FIT

How lifting burns calories and helps you feel leaner

DRIVE

76

Sharon Cameron on her life in Manchester

3 OF THE BEST

New luxury breaks for 2022

ASK THE VET

Top advice for pet travel

NO, MR BOND, I EXPECT YOU TO FLY We test drive the Aston Martin DBX707

HOME

88

COASTAL COLOURS Create paradise in your own home

AM M II LL Y AA FF A Y SS TT O O RR YY A FAMILY STORY

Yasmin and Amber Le Bon wear Raindance Yasmin and Amber Le Bon wear Raindance Yasmin and Amber Le Bon wear Raindance

My life ...

SHARON CAMERON, REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF SALES AT KIMPTON CLOCKTOWER HOTEL

How would you describe yourself ?

I’m passionate with strong family values and an amazing work ethic. I’ve got an open heart and I’m not precious to who or when I give my time to people. I’m very grounded, quite robust, fiercely loyal and extremely proud to be a Mancunian. I’m very self-motivated and always full of energy and love nurturing people and sharing our hospitality industry with the new generations. The biggest rewards are seeing people reconnecting together and having a wonderful experience and knowing that I played a very small part in making that happen.

Where is home? And work?

Home is between Manchester and Northern Ireland, work is in Manchester at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.

What did you want to be when you were younger?

I always wanted to be a dancer.

“

The biggest rewards are seeing people reconnecting together and having a wonderful experience

”

Name a few of your favourite places to be...

I love being on the coast of both Northern Ireland and Norway What or who inspires you?

My husband is my biggest inspiration and my go-to. He has a wealth of knowledge and always keeps me right.

What was the last gift you gave someone?

Doll and Tractor to my beautiful grandchildren.

Tell us a secret/fun fact?

I had the honour of meeting Lord Richard Attenborough.

Who or what would you place in room 101?

Litter Louts.

What would your Mastermind subject be?

Coco Chanel.

What’s been your biggest life lesson?

Do one thing every day that makes you happy. www.kimptonclocktowerhotel.com

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Free Reader Event

SAVE 20 THE 10 DATE 22 Enjoy an evening of champagne tasting A celebration of Kitchen Architecture’s 20th year and The Cheshire Magazine’s 100th issue.

Join us on Thursday 20 October for an exclusive Champagne Masterclass delivered by the world’s most admired Grande Marque – La Maison de Louis Roederer. Under the tutelage of their Master of Wine, learn how to savour this maison’s most prestige cuvées.

Hosted by Kitchen Architecture in conjunction with The Cheshire Magazine and Gaggenau, you will have the opportunity to discuss home renovations with expert design consultants who will be on hand to guide, inspire and answer any questions you may have. Don’t forget to bring along plans if you’d like individual input and advice. Gaggenau advisers will also be available to demonstrate their market-leading kitchen appliances.

Kitchen Architecture understands how good design can add value to your lifestyle and home. Visiting their Wilmslow design centre, you will experience high-end kitchen-living spaces curated for family and friends to enjoy more time together – be it cooking, dining, or relaxing, including an outdoor kitchen and entertaining area.

As a celebration of Kitchen Architecture’s 20th year, they are offering five free design consultations for readers planning home renovations and wanting to embrace a sociable lifestyle at home.

The evening is completely free but places are limited so please book now: email events@kitchenarchitecture.co.uk.

Date: 6-8 pm, Thursday 20 October 2022 Location: Kitchen Architecture, The Colony, Altrincham Road, Wilmslow, SK9 4LY To book: events@kitchenarchitecture.co.uk

Where life is calm and connected...

Kitchen Architecture is a family-run business that specialises in creating sociable living spaces that add value to your lifestyle and home. If you’re planning a home renovation, come along and chat to an expert design consultant.

LIVERPOOL

FRANKFURT

THE WORLD

B O O K N O W AT L U F T H A N S A . C O M

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CM

MY

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

NOTEBOOK WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

Cake by the La Lake

Manchester's Heaton Park has revealed the

all-new summer Lakeside Dining Domes in partnership with Life Cafés & Resorts. Fitted with shaded glazing and air conditioning to keep guests cool, the Lakeside Dining Domes are available to book for a unique Afternoon Tea experience and a new summer evening menu, giving guests the option of dining up until 7pm. www.heatonparkcafes.com

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Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

12 - 14 AUG

Deva Fest Chester Lakes

What’s O n ?

Pint-size grooving to Ibiza sounds at a family rave.

Trips into space calling at the sun, moon and stars.

Swashbuckling shenanigans with pirates. Plus fairground rides, messy play, and Europe’s largest mermaid tank... It's all going on for kids at Deva Fest this year. The weekend line-up of top pop talent includes headliners Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Heather Small, Scouting for Girls and Dodgy. www.devafest.co.uk

5 AUG

An Evening with Harry Guy Parade at Chester Racecourse In a special pop-up event, prestigious chef, Harry Guy will showcase his exciting new menu. Guests can expect the finest seasonal ingredients and British produce from his six-course tasting menu, which includes dishes such as brown butter poached halibut, broad beans, trombetta courgette and mussel sauce followed by buttermilk, raspberry, beetroot and rose. www.chester-races.com

29-30 JUL & 12-13 AUG

Into The Night Chester Zoo The zoo’s new Into the Night evenings will provide the rare opportunity to experience the zoo until sunset across four exclusive nights. With live acrobatic and dance performances, music and a specially nature-themed food and drinks menu, this exclusive event is not to be missed. www.chesterzoo.org 18

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

27 - 28 AUG

Cheshire Festival of Power Ashley Hall Showground A brand-new action-packed two days of live entertainment will take over Ashley Hall.

Festivalgoers can expect an all-star music line-up, automotive marques, food and drink pop-ups and enjoy performances from the UK’s top freestyle motocross display unit - the Bolddog Lings FMX Team. www.cheshirefestivalofpower.co.uk 6 - 7 AUG

Woodland Wilding Yoga Retreat Lunts Moss A deeply healing and restorative retreat, perfect for those with little time to spare. Through yoga and meditation, you will harness the mystical world of trees, earth, and animals deep in the ancient woodlands of Lunts Moss. Your evening will be spent next to a crackling log fire beneath the stars doing gentle breathwork and enjoying a sumptuous vegan dinner by candlelight. www.basubu.com

IMAGE © TENEIGHT

1 - 4 SEP

Trentham Live 2022 The Trentham Estate

19 - 21 AUG

Enjoy 4 days of live music set amongst the beautiful grounds of The Trentham Estate in Staffordshire.

Performers include pop legends Steps, Louise, McFly, Craig David, Scouting For Girls and Secret Symphony and much, much more. www.ticketmaster.co.uk/trentham-live

Just So Festival Rode Hall A whirl of literature, theatre, dance, music, comedy and arts and crafts takes place in the enchanting grounds of Rode Hall between breakfast and midnight feasts. www.justsofestival.org.uk

26 - 29 AUG

Geronimo Arley Hall They call it Glastonbury for under-13s and on the bill this year are tween idols Sam and Mark from CBBC’s Big Friday Wind Up, street dancer Junior Frood, and singalong sensations Johnny & the Raindrops. Plus, there’ll be monster trucks, the world’s biggest bouncy castle and more. www.geronimofest.com 19

Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

oof

The Best...

New Luxury Hotel Openi ngs

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3

Cullinan Belek, Turkey

Having recently opened in June 2022, this Instagram-worthy, brand-new luxury all-inclusive hotel is a must-visit for holidaymakers seeking sun, fun and a memorable stay. Cullinan Belek, named after the largest rough diamond ever found, is located on the beautiful Turkish Riviera in Antalya, on a long stretch of white sandy beach. With something for families, golfers, sun worshippers, nightlife lovers and more, this hotel should be top of your holiday list this summer. www.cullinanhotels.com

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7Pines Resort, Sardinia

Set to open in July 2022, this luxury beachfront resort is ideally located in Baja Sardinia, within the neighbourhood of Porto Cervo. Guests can choose from 76 individually designed rooms, all with a choice between sea views or beautifully landscaped Mediterranean gardens.

At the heart of the resort will be the Pure Seven Spa: an 800 square metre haven of wellbeing with five treatment cabins for individual or couples’ treatments, relaxation area, steam room, sauna, emotional shower, ice room and outdoor areas for Kneipp therapy.

7Pines Yachting Services will provide access to an exclusive fleet of luxury yachts for guests keen to explore the most beautiful coves of the Costa Smeralda or the archipelago of La Maddalena. www.7pines.com

20

Asterion Suites & Spa, Crete

Having opened at the beginning of May, the new Asterion Suites & Spa is a hidden sanctuary situated on an idyllic sandy beach on the north west coast of Crete with incredible views over the sparkling blue Aegean.

Catch some rays at the beach or on the bean bags and daybeds by the expansive outdoor pool overlooking the sea. Unwind, be pampered and find your inner peace at the state-of-the-art Orion Spa with its holistic wellness concept and range of rejuvenating treatments that use natural products sourced from the island itself.

Celebrate the flavours and aromas of Cretan cuisine at the hotel's two restaurants and sip local wines and cocktails at the two Bohemian bars in the lobby and by the pool with stunning sea views. www.asterionsuitesandspa.com

YOUR ULTIMATE LONDON ADDRESS To book your summer staycation, email biltmore.reservations@hilton.com www.thebiltmoremayfair.com The Biltmore Mayfair 44 Grosvenor Sqaure Mayfair, London W1K 2HP 020 7629 9400

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

M ak akii ng Wav Wa v es in the

Super peryyacht World Sarah Colbon discusses her latest project and how Njord by Bergman Design House is making a big splash in the superyacht world

N

jord by Bergman Design House, the superyacht interior architecture and design studio co-founded by Marie Soliman, Albin Berglund and Sarah Colbon, is celebrating completing their latest project, a refit 56m Benetti Galaxy. Using the highest levels of eco-friendly design and technique, the yachting arm of London’s award-winning interior design studio Bergman Design House, Njord by Bergman Design House is spearheading a new era of sustainable superyacht design.

Galaxy Galaxy was completed by Njord by Bergman Design House in February 2022 after a record-breaking five-month refit, a project that would typically take a minimum of 18 months.

Designed with cosmic inspiration to fit the client’s desire to create a spaceship to entertain in and yet also call home, the yacht’s interior has been completely transformed to include: a private nightclub, multi-sensory saloon, meditation and wellness space, a cinema room and private music studio, touch-and-go helipad, and a private party deck. Refit in recordbreaking time, Galaxy is the first-ever superyacht to have a private member’s club designed onboard that turns into a multi-sensory space

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and cinema lounge. The luxurious cosmic superyacht was redelivered to her owner last month, ready to transform anyone who steps on board to another universe.

The Brief Galaxy’s concept came from our clients’ love of life, entertainment, and creativity. With their love of out-of-world experiences and the Burning Man community, Galaxy was to become their very own spaceship. A platform that could be multifunctional, a place to celebrate life and become a permanent home for them, the first-ever private members’ club theme and festival space. Galaxy, whilst keeping this universe theme, took every step of how they lived their lives and made each space onboard

a place of moving senses and magical and cosmic energy.

Personally, my favourite feature is the ‘wow’ experience of the main salon that turns into a private nightclub. During the day, it serves as a place for meditation space and a lounge to gather friends and watch movies. It’s a very special place, one I’ve never experienced on a yacht before now. The art piece by Joseph Klibansky of ‘The Thinker’ is the main inspiration for this space. Dylan Cole, whose work features in Disney blockbusters such as Avatar, designed the incredible wall covering.

It is the first time he has ever worked on a yacht.

With everything in the space created like a piece of art, it’s truly an out-of-world experience; it’s a gallery within itself.

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Overcoming Challenges There are always challenges with any project - you are dealing with such a high-pressured environment, crew, shipyards, suppliers, and so on, but if you have an incredible team as we did, challenges are always met with solutions.

Remember our main challenge was working through a pandemic, travelling when restrictions were on and trying to get suppliers to deliver on time during Brexit, but we got through all of this and she is truly a marvel of design - she is a new yacht with an even bigger energy.

The Result Galaxy is no longer just another white Superyacht gracing the ocean along the French

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Riviera, she has been transformed into the private owners’ own floating entertainment spaceship, their own universe, a home which encapsulates their lifestyle and a design that has never been done before onboard a yacht of this kind. Galaxy is now a destination, a marvel that touches all your body’s senses and excites and embraces you with its energy during each step you take onboard. Galaxy will now transport her new owners into another dimension.

Trust is everything, in design, in relationships, you build this by excelling in your execution in what you do. We had this with Galaxy, hence the outcome. We are extremely well known for getting to know our clients so well that when it comes to the design we nail it every time. This builds the trust that we can be able to get the

TheCHESHIRE CHESHIREMagazine Magazine| Regulars | Feature The

job done and of course, sometimes we are lucky enough to become close friends with our clients and the yachts become our family. Fun is always on the agenda, what comes from that is genuine hard work and beautifully designed yachts such as Galaxy.

A Passion Project Galaxy took only five months to refit as opposed to the usual 18 months. The Galaxy project was a refit broken down into phases. This allowed the client to live and enjoy their new yacht while Njord simultaneously worked their magic on the interior design. Phase one of the project took place in Spring 2021 and saw the addition of new rugs, artwork, exterior seating, cushions and a general up-styling of the interior so the client could enjoy a summer season onboard whilst living in a space that felt more like home.

This allowed the owner to live in the space and give feedback to Njord first-hand on which areas they found most comfortable and which they used less, all of which helped to inform the second full refit phase.

Every piece placed on board during phase one flowed into phase two, ensuring nothing was wasted. Once the concept was agreed, a full interior refit of the main guest areas took place alongside exterior styling, giving the yacht a new lease of life. With a goal to complete the project within five months, this would be the shortest time frame in which any superyacht has ever undergone a refit. Together with the trust and can-do attitude of the owners, the Monaco Marine shipyard and the formidable crew, Galaxy has done just that. www.bergmandesignhouse.com

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It’ s fi n di n g e v er yt hi n g I n e e d b ut fi n di n g it t o g et h er

T HI S I S M Y KI N D O F E X T R A O R DI N A R Y. dis c o v er y o urs.

U P T O 6 0 % L E S S, E V E R Y TI M E c h e s hir e o a k s d e si g n er o utl et. c o m

Style NONC ONCH H ALAN ALANT T Eleg lega ance Born from the convergence of new trends and artisan expertise, the Brunello Cucinelli Spring Summer 2023 Men’s Collection fully expresses a taste for laid-back elegance, founded on a refined yet relaxed balance between sophistication and verve. The pleasure and prestige of the sartorial world are transferred to elements with a relaxed style, effortlessly enriching everyday life. The real protagonist of the season is the suit. An interpreter of business elegance as much as of daily, leisure and summer dressing. www.brunellocucinelli.com

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Gems fr f rom A r ound th the Worl orld d Powells Jewellery has put together an exquisite selection of vintage, antique and contemporary fine jewellery, showcasing a variety of nature’s gemstones from all around the world

J

oin us as we journey through Brazil, Sri Lanka, Thailand and more, feasting your eyes on some of the luxury pieces we have to offer at Powells. Fine sapphires of all colours are found in Madagascar, Thailand and Sri Lanka. Blues range from a light cornflower to a deep-sea blue. Sapphires are also found in every other colour of the rainbow except for red which would make it ruby.

The most desired emeralds in the world come from Colombia, a rare find indeed. Other fine emeralds we offer can be found in Brazil, India and Zambia.

Rubies such as those in our art deco ‘showstopper’ come from fascinating locations such as Thailand, Sri Lanka and of course Myanmar where the most exceptional gemstones are discovered. Such rarities can be discovered in Powells’ antique collection.

Perhaps the most famous of all gemstones, the diamond, is sourced from numerous locations around the globe, but most notably from South Africa. You will find it as the ‘hero’ gemstone in many of pieces and it is also used to complement other gems in rare and one-of-a-kind designs.

We cannot forget to mention the Queen of the gems, the pearl, her lustrous beauty comes from being grown in the warm waters of the South Sea, Japanese waters and for the most decadent black pearls, Tahiti.

Tourmalines in greens, pinks and blues come mostly from Brazil as do aquamarines. You can see beautiful examples in our pink and green tourmaline dress ring.

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CHESHIRE Magazine | Stlye TheThe CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Discover more by scanning the codes and uncover your next piece www.powellsfinejewellery.com www.powellsvintagejewellery.com www.loweandsons.co.uk

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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Get ready for your nex ne xt summer summe r event with £500 to spend spend at Metqu etqua arter Metquarter is delighted to offer The Cheshire Magazine readers the chance to win an exclusive party prep package this summer

S

ituated in the heart of Liverpool, Metquarter is a one-stop destination for shopping, food and entertainment and home to iconic local brands including Kids Cavern and Cricket Fashion alongside Everyman Cinema and lots of other independent retailers and crafters.

One reader will get the chance to experience a luxury afternoon inside Metquarter where experts in the field of ‘glam’ will help you get prepped for your next big event, whether that be a wedding, the races, or a summer ball. The lucky winner will receive a £250 voucher against a full priced dress at Fairytale Endings, a £100 voucher for a treatment redeemable at Liverpool’s very own spa, Urban Calm, and a £150 voucher to spend at red carpet favourite for shoes and accessories, Kurt Geiger. www.metquarter.com

To win all you need to do is answer the following question:

What is the name of the cinema at Metquarter?

E-mail your answer alongside your Full Name and Phone Number to:

hello@thecheshiremagazine

Deadline for competition entries is 31st August 2022 Winners will be notified week commencing 5th September 2022 Terms and conditions apply.

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

Fash ashiion Forw orwa a rd w ith M a r t i ne A lexa nder

Summer holidays are nearly upon us and whether you’re heading away on a girls’ trip or a family va-cay, we’re all guilty of over packing and taking far too much with us!

This month I’m going to give you my top tips on how to pack efficiently

HUNZA G

OUTDAZL

OUTDAZL

O

L_AGENCE AT NET A PORTER

LOVE SHACKK FANCY AT NET A PORTER

SLEEPER AT NET A PORTER

every outfit you have), an evening heel or wedge plus a trainers (to fly in) will cover all bases • Invest in travel bags and separate your lingerie, swimwear and accessories into them. They make life a lot easier when packing and also when you arrive at your destination • When it comes to packing your clothes, lay sections of clothes on top of one another and then roll them. It minimises creasing and saves on room Email: martine@martinealexander.co.uk Instagram: @martinealexander Twitter: @yourstylist

LOEWE AT NET A PORTER

AMINA MUADDI AT NET A PORTER

REFORMATION AT NET A PORTER

ne of my most popular wardrobe concierge services is shopping for my client’s upcoming holidays, packing their suitcases and giving them enough outfits that cater for every occasion whilst they’re in sunnier climes. It’s a great solution for my clients, because they’re busy packing for the rest of the family, plus they don’t want to think about what to take themselves. If this sounds like you, then read on…

Here’s my top ten tips on how to pack light but also have enough options for every day you’re away: • Know what you’re going to be doing each day/night. Is there a dress code for certain places or activities? Do your research and make sure you’re not caught short on the day • For every night you’re away, pack a separate outfit, plus a couple (and I mean, a couple, not ten!) of backups, just in case • Plan your in-flight outfit first and keep to one side • Try on each outfit and photograph it for reference whilst you’re away • Mix and match your tops and bottoms to create more room in your suitcase and where possible, have a colour palette for your outfits. It makes interchanging and co-ordinating a lot easier • Keep print to a minimum if you’re short on space. Block colours are a lot easier to style up or down • Make sure you have a couple of items with longer sleeves in case the temperature drops at night • Take minimal pairs of shoes – a daytime sandal like a flip flop, an evening flat sandal (tan is always the best colour as it can be classed as nude and will go with

What I’ve Been up to…

This month I’ve been taking my own advice - shopping and sourcing wardrobe options for clients that are going on holiday, styling a celebrity client for an upcoming presenting project and attending press events as I’m one of the judges for the ‘This is Manchester’ Awards.

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

Add a Li L i t tle

C O L OU OU R t o your you r

SUMMER M

ake a statement this summer with the new RIANNA + NINA collection.

KOSMIMA, Greek for ‘jewellery,’ is a collection influenced by the renowned history of Greek craftsmanship. With themed motifs and spectacular embroidery performed by hand in India, this elegant series captures the immaculate beauty of the isles’ many wares.

For centuries, jewellery has given the women of Greece an unparalleled style, charm, and sense of empowerment. As Rianna herself can attest, a Greek woman’s look is not complete without an assortment of vibrant and stunning necklaces — a tradition that traces its roots deep into the nation’s storied history.

Over time, such a tradition has produced an incredible array of distinct and characterful treasures.

Now, RIANNA + NINA take that breadth of beautiful work and imbue it into their own, in a collection called KOSMIMA. Every sophisticated look is crafted in subtle hues,

allowing for a versatility and grace that makes a wearer feel good from morning through to the night. Imagery across the collection takes inspiration from discoveries in the city of Knossos on Crete, where archaeologists have unearthed innumerable ancient treasures — the arresting beauty of which continues to captivate to this day. Alongside their new hand-embroidered designs, this collection also presents quilted pieces and a continuation of their knitted works. KOSMIMA additionally explores refined silk looks, made from the highest quality silk in Como, Italy. Distinguished men’s styles also make an appearance, possessing the same quality and style found throughout the collection.

To complement this jewellery-themed series, RIANNA + NINA are joined by one of Greece’s oldest and most acclaimed jewellers: LALAoUNIS. No story of Greek jewellery is complete without Ilias Lalaounis and his multi-generational family of jewellers — and today, the label bearing that family name has created a special collection inspired by the looks of KOSMIMA.

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www.riannaandnina.com

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Health, Beauty

Wellness

Mov oviing M ount unta ains

Don’t miss the new immersive experience recently launched at each of Tshchuggen Hotel Group’s properties, encompassing all the pillars which make for memorable and lasting wellbeing. Experts in sleep, nutrition, wellness and sports have come together to form the programme incorporating spa treatments and the beautiful landscapes of each of the hotel locations. The hotel compliment the Moving Mountains spa therapies with yoga, hiking, wild swimming and nourishing, plant-based menus to ensure that guests experience true wellbeing during a restorative holiday break. www.tschuggen.ch

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25 Years of Organic Beauty 2022 marks 25 years since Charlotte Vøhtz founded Green People as part of her quest to help others embrace a truly organic lifestyle.

To celebrate this milestone, Green People introduces the new Organic Heritage Beauty Trio. This special-edition skincare set features three 50ml organic beauty products that work in synergy to cleanse, smooth and hydrate, whilst gently nourishing and replenishing all skin types. Presented in a floral-themed boxset, this ready-made routine celebrates 25 years of organic beauty and is ideal for gifting. £44.25 (3 x 50ml), www.greenpeople.co.uk

Health &

Beauty Fla wless Finish Who doesn’t feel better with a tan? Crazy Angel’s Self-Tan Lotion is the secret to glowing skin. Enhanced with prolong and protect tanning agent, firming caffeine and hydrating shea butter, the formula develops in 6-8 hours and will leave you with a perfectly bronzed, flawless finish, from top to toe.

Medium/Dark, £19.00 for 200ml, www.crazy-angel.co.uk

loves

NEW Miller Harris Myrica Muse Eau de Parfum

Otherwise known as bayberry, myrica is the starring ingredient of Miller Harris’ new fragrance. Opening with an energetic burst of bayberry and strawberry, it oozes confidence with a tangle of tangerine and pink pepper. With a musky heart of rose and patchouli, these two notes have been upcycled as a by-product from the extraction of freshly harvested plants. £125 (100ml) /£95 (50ml), Available from September from www.millerharris.com

A Treat from the Tropics Illuminate your skin and replenish after a long day, or cleanse and brighten for the day ahead with Dr. Organic Guava Exfoliating Face Wash. Guava contains antioxidants that can protect skin from UV damage and potentially delay the signs of aging. The vitamins A and C in guava also play a role in enhancing skin firmness. Prepare yourself for a treat from the tropics £7.49 (150ml), www.hollandandbarrett.com

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Health & Beauty

ASK THE EXPERT Optometrist, Nicola Alexander-Cross shares her product recommendations from Peep Club to help soothe and protect eyes over hay fever season Gracing us with all those itchy, puffy, sneazy symptoms, hay fever is the seasonal side-effect we could really do without. In fact, symptoms like these are the main reason I, along with co-founder Natasha, created Peep Club.

Here are my three top tips to help soothe and protect eyes in hay fever season.

POLLEN PROTECTION The key cause of hay fever is a reaction to pollen, and the best way to defend eyes from this powdery substance is to create a layer of protection. The natural way to do this is to create tears and Peep Club Instant Relief Eye Spray, £15 / 17ml (approx. 300 doses), can help. It uses Sea Buckthorn Oil, designed to lock in the moisture of tears and naturally protect eyes from drying over time. It also contains Sodium Hyaluronate to strengthen tears at a cellular level for better hydration throughout the day. Simply hold the spray 15-20 cm from the face and spritz across closed eyes, applying 1-2 times per eye. The Instant Relief Eye Spray can be used up to 4 times per day, or as often as needed.

ROUND-THE-CLOCK REHYDRATION Summer in the UK is usually a time of low humidity and that can prove problematic for eyes that are susceptible to irritation. With its moisture-replacing mist action, compact size and cable-free design, Peep Club Hydrating Portable Humidifier, £55, is ready to rehydrate and subsequently soothe irritated eyes. It works by naturally re-establishing a healthier environment for your eyes by replacing lost moisture into the air around them. Before hay fever season starts, place this handy hydrator on your bedtime table. When used overnight, your eyes - even when closed - soak up the benefits of this continuous rehydration. It’s a sure way to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to face the day.

CLEANSING WITH CARE If eyes are irritated, it may be tempting to rinse the pain away, but you could end up causing more harm than good, especially when using soap or cleansers. “Fragrance, alcohol, preservatives and even essential oils can cause issues when used on alreadyirritated eyes,” warns Nicola. That’s why she advises stepping away from these types of products and instead treating eyes to Peep Club’s 100% organic Soothing Coconut Eye Balm, £20. It’s free from all known eye irritants, and instead is packed with antibacterial coconut and soothing chamomile.

The star of the balm, however, has to be Cureberry. Lauded as a powerful antioxidant, this superhero ingredient helps shield the eye area from external aggressors, pollen included. www.peepclub.com

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Wellness

F I N D YO U R F I T with C la larr e S tob toba a rt

Lift to be Lean We are all blessed with 24 hours in a day, and as many of you can relate, we need to make sure each of them reach their full potential. Efficiency can often be key to this, and that principle can be extended to your workouts. Squats, lunges and deadlifts are all known as compound movements and exercises. They help target and work the biggest muscle groups in your body including your glutes, quads, hamstrings and core - at the same time! By incorporating them into your workouts, you can see some amazing results, fast. It is one of the quickest ways to get in shape, make your body lean and burn body fat. It also helps you to keep fat off and maintain a healthy body weight.

Here’s why: This form of exercise can even speed up your metabolism, as muscle is the type of tissue in your body that burns the most calories.

Strength training develops “fast-twitch” muscle fibres which provide bigger and more powerful forces. Which in turn, can keep burning calories up to eight hours after you’ve worked out (Women’s Fitness).

Building muscle works differently depending on gender. Testosterone and growth hormones are a huge part of muscle building, therefore it is easier for men to build muscle or “bulk” more quickly due to having an overall increased muscle mass. In the female body, building muscle works differently due to lower testosterone and higher oestrogen levels. Thus resulting in women developing muscle tone and definition as opposed to bulking up.

By engaging more muscle groups, squats, deadlifts and other compound exercises contribute to burning more calories,

encouraging a lean body. In turn, the more muscle you have, the quicker your metabolism will work. Strength training also maintains your overall fitness. It is great for your vital organs such as your heart because it gives your cardiovascular system places to send the blood being pumped, which reduces the pressure on your arteries, therefore, improving your overall heart health. Lifting weights for under one hour per week can reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke by between 40-70% (Iowa State University). With consistent strength training, you’re likely to stay heart healthy for years to come.

Lifting burns calories efficiently, decreases abdominal fat and can help you feel leaner. It reduces visceral fat which can be found around your internal organs and is great for your posture. Through strengthening your bones and joints, coordination and flexibility, compound movements really are the way forward. The health benefits are unrivalled, as they even increase your bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

By following my step-by-step guide on how to perform weighted squats, you can ensure you get the very best out of all your hard work. Now let’s go!

Step 1: Safely rest the barbell onto the fleshy part of your back (onto your traps and shoulders). Stand straight, feet hip-width apart, toes turned very slightly out, the barbell on the fleshy part of your back with head up, chin facing forward and elbows facing forward, core engaged and chest up.

Step 2: Lower down, as though you are sitting on a chair. Go to 90 degrees (if you have no injuries) pause for a moment, and push the knees out.

Step 3: Drive up through the heels, keeping the core engaged, shoulders back, chest up - and don’t forget to squeeze the glutes Step 4: Repeat.

www.cpase.co.uk 45

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Family S pl pla a sh shii ng into int o S umme ummerr With the heatwave well and truly here, Polarn O. Pyret has got all little ones covered for any swimming pool shenanigans this summer! Following last year’s popular debut, Sarah Sheppard’s vibrant prints are back and this season it spans into the swimwear too! The bright, gorgeous prints are available in a variety of styles; from the Underwater Print Kids Swimsuit, the Shark Print Swim Shorts, to the Rash Vest, there is something for all stylish babas. www.polarnopyret.co.uk

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Snoozeshade SnoozeShade is the original breathable, blackout sun and sleep solution for prams, buggies, car seats and travel cots – a simpler, easier, lightweight and secure alternative to a draped coat or blankets.

Designed for use from birth, their sleep and sunshade blocks 99% of UV rays, whilst keeping little ones undisturbed on any family outing, whether in the car, on a walk or in exotic locations. The airpermeable fabrics that are used, allow air to circulate whilst shielding against the elements of rain, wind and chills – it even blocks out any access for insects too.

What’s more, each of the products have a handy front zip so you can have a sneak peek at your little one when needed. Also, SnoozeShade for travel cot is a real saviour on holiday when putting your baby down for bed to create a safe and dark sleeping environment whilst on holiday.

From £19.99, www.snoozeshade.com

Family news WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

SMART TRAVEL GAMES SmartGames, the worldwide leader in multi-level logic games, have challenges from the very easy, to the very challenging; perfect for players of all ages and locations. The games can be taken anywhere with their travel friendly options such as the IQ range, which come in a handy portable format for on-the-go and the Magnetics, for brain teasing fun on the plane, bus, train, car, beach, swimming pool and so much more!

From £8.99, www.smarttoysandgames.co.uk

Cheeky Chompers Multimuslin Struggle to pack light?

The MultiMuslin by Cheeky Chompers cleverly brings together six baby essentials in one. Incorporating a nursing cover, burp cloth, attachable shade for pushchairs, blanket, swaddle, and two soft silicone teething rings attached, your little one can chew away during the flight or poolside. The MultiMuslin is sure to be an essential, with six clever uses, there is no need to pack everything but the kitchen sink.

RRP £22.99, www.cheekychompers.com

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

DOONA INFANT CAR SEAT (0+) The Doona Car Seat is the world’s first complete and fully integrated travel system, allowing you to move from car seat to stroller in seconds. Having been TUV and FAA aircraft approved for travel, it is an essential for jet setting parents to nip through the airport worry free! It’s the only car seat to have been tested and certified as an Infant Car Seat, a stroller and an infant carrier providing overarching safety for your child in all circumstances.

With its unique 3-layer side impact protection, anti-rebound bar crash technology, superior 5-point safety harness and ergonomic infant insert, the Doona car seat is one of the safest car seats available today.

From £299, www.doona.shop

Infantino StayCool 4-in-1 Convertible Carrier Cool down this summer with Infantino’s brand new StayCool 4-in-1 Convertible Carrier. Offering a StayCool future-fabric that’s proven to be measurably cooler than other leading carrier materials, including standalone mesh, this carrier’s unique temperature conditioned performance composition will help keep you and baby regulated on the warmest of days! With 4-positions, infant-to-toddler carrying, a supportive waistbelt and adjustable head support, it is an essential for any hands-free adventures this summer.

RRP £69.99, www.amazon.co.uk

The Ultimate Travel Cleaning Collection Nimble’s plant-based solutions, you can keep the holiday home, naturally clean and germ free!

From wiping away ice cream stains to protecting mucky hands or cleaning the restaurant table… Nimble has it all covered in handy travel sized essentials available in the Ultimate Travel Cleaning Collection.

RRP £11.99, www.nimblebabies.com

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Pets’ Corner ‘Pawfect’ Travel Products For Dogs this Summer

Dog-Friendly Weekends Written by travel writer and dog lover Lottie Gross, and in partnership with the UK’s dog friendly holiday booking website PetsPyjamas, the book showcases 50 breaks in Britain for dogs and their owners. Covering ground from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands, it features guidance on a well-rounded weekend away inclusive of dog-friendly accommodation, pubs, attractions and walks for all abilities.

As revealed in a PetsPyjamas survey, 87% of pet owners plan to take their dog on holiday in the UK this year, so whether you’re looking for a way to treat your furry friend or planning a dog-suitable getaway for the summer, Lottie Gross’s comprehensive guide to pet-friendly adventure is here to help.

RRP £16.99, www.bradtguides.com

Travel Organiser Kit This is a brilliant bag that can contain all of the necessary pet essentials you need when you’re out and about having fun. Fully loaded, it’s large enough to hold up to one week’s worth of dry food for a medium-size dog, up to a full day’s supply of water and other items such as a lead, food mat, chew toys, medications and first aid supplies – making it another fabulous holiday companion.

RRP £46.99, www.petsafe.com/UK

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Happy Ride Quilted Dog Safety Seat Not only does this safety seat allow our four-legged friends to relax and enjoy sleeping the miles away on the comfy quilted liner and cushion, but it also keeps them safely contained in one place whilst driving – reducing driver distractions. The safety seat connects securely to the vehicle’s seat belt and is ideal for smaller pups and more bijou breeds that weigh up to 14kg.

RRP £81.99, www.petsafe.com/UK

Happy Ride Quilted Booster Seat Booster seats like the Happy Ride Quilted Booster Seat are another ‘pawfect’ purchase for road trips with the more petite pooches. It’s available in two sizes – for dogs up to 8kg and those up to 11kg. The quilted microsuede pairs with a quilted pad liner for an extra-soft, comfortable drive and the included safety tether attaches to your dog’s harness, keeping roaming pets secure to provide a safer, more enjoyable, ride for everyone.

RRP £35.99 for the 8kg version to £45.99 for the 11kg model, www.petsafe.com/UK

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

Ask the

VET

This month I focus my attention on pet travel and Animal Health Certificates (AHC)

For those of us who enjoy taking our pets with us on our European summer holidays, you may have noticed a lot has changed since Brexit. Gone are the pet passports, they have been replaced with Animal Health Certificates, these are considerably more complicated and expensive!

Below I will break down the process into easy steps to make it easier to navigate and plan your trips. #1 - First and foremost, your pet needs to be microchipped, the chip needs to be IOS standard for travelling. It is a legal requirement for all UK dogs to be chipped anyway, and in 2023 all cats will need to be microchipped by law. #2 - All pets will then require a rabies vaccination. Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old to receive this vaccination. #3 - 21 days after the rabies vaccine you can then apply for an Animal Health Certificate. I would advise

booking this appointment in advance as the certificates can take up to an hour to complete. Only an Official Veterinarian can fill in an AHC. Make sure you bring your pet’s proof of rabies vaccination and the address abroad where you will be staying, and bring this proof of rabies vaccine with you when travelling. #4 - The signed AHC will then be valid for 10 days to travel into Europe, you will need to travel through a specific port of entry, this depends on the country you are intending to travel to. #5 - The certificate is valid for travel around Europe for 4 months, this includes your return visit to the UK. #6 - When returning to the UK, or entering one of these specific countries – Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Norway or Malta, you will need your dog to be wormed by an Official Veterinarian. This must be done no less than 24 hours and no more than 5 days prior to travel. Your certificate will be signed by the vet to prove your pet has been wormed.

AHC can cost anywhere from £100-£250, per certificate per trip, so if you are travelling with multiple animals this can get quite expensive.

If you are a frequent traveller with your pets, it may be worth investing in an EU passport, but in order to keep the passport valid, it must be dispensed in an EU country and also have its rabies vaccinations kept up to date in an EU country.

You may have an animal that was originally rescued or exported from an EU country.

These passports can still be valid provided the rabies vaccine is up to date and follow-up rabies boosters are performed by an Official Veterinarian in Europe. Remember to protect your pet whilst you are on holiday from a variety of parasites that some countries have.

Happy travels!

James Dutfield BVSC MRCVS Resident Vet, If you have a question for James you can email him at, james-the-vet@thecheshiremag.co.uk www.goostreylanevets.co.uk

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Luxury wood flooring and cladding

info@havwoods.com | +44 (0) 01524 737000 | www.havwoods.com/uk Havwoods Knutsford Showroom, 12-18 Regent Street, Knutsford, WA16 6GR Product: HW601 European Oak Character

Food Drink A Taste of Loch Lomond Scotland is the ideal destination for food

seeking adventure and a holiday close to home. Cameron House, a five-star resort on Loch Lomond, has recently launched Tamburrini & Wishart, a new fine dining restaurant that offers a contemporary and innovative dining experience with seasonal produce at its heart.

Guests can enjoy a five-course tasting menu or a three-course lunch menu embracing modern techniques while celebrating classical flavours. Each menu is exquisitely paired with wine chosen by the on-site Sommelier. www.cameronhouse.co.uk

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loves New from K i tc h e n A i d

Food & Drink news

The new ice cream maker attachment quickly and easily turns the 4.3L and 4.8L tilt-head mixer as well as the 6.9L bowl-lift mixer into an expert treat maker. With an updated churning dasher inside the bowl - for scraping down the sides and thorough mixing - the sturdy, elegantly crafted 1.9L bowl is designed to stay colder for longer. Powered by the iconic Stand Mixer, with redesigned assembly and new handles, the Ice Cream Maker Attachment can churn thick and creamy ice cream at home in less than 30 minutes.

RRP £129 from www.kitchenaid.co.uk

WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

S i z z l i ng S u m m e r D i n i ng To celebrate the summer we’ve chosen our favourite outdoor dining essentials - everything you need to create an al fresco feast for friends or family.

American BBQ Rubs, From £4.95 Channel the spirit of world-championship BBQ, with this range of award-winning American rubs and seasonings.

Colour Pop Enamel Plates, £22.99 each Hardy enamel is brilliant for eating outdoors, but it’s not often as beautiful as this range! The dip-dye and splatter effect is bang on trend for 2022, and will really bring your dishes to life pile them high with vibrant summer salads, homemade kebabs or sizzled seafood dressed with olive oil and herbs to life. www.souschef.co.uk 54

Pro Q Flatdog Foldable & Portable BBQ, £89.99 This BBQ is perfect for camping and hiking, trips to the beach with a revolutionary design, this lightweight stainless steel BBQ flat-packs down to the thickness of a laptop, so you can easily transport it anywhere.

ProQ Cocoshell Briquettes 10KG, £22.99 These briquettes are a revolutionary natural, sustainable and CO2 neutral barbecue charcoal made from coconut husks. The compact bricks burn for up to three times longer than standard lump wood charcoal, which means fewer top-ups and less time spent waiting for fresh coals to light.

ProQ Frontier Elite 3 in 1 BBQ Smoker, £349.00 Transform your garden into a Kansas City smokehouse with this all-in-one piece of summer kit. The ProQ Frontier Elite 3 in 1 allows you to hot smoke ingredients such as brisket, ribs and pulled pork; grill smaller cuts of meat such as steaks, vegetables and seafood; and also cold smoke fish, cheese and butter. The stacked grill has hot coals in the base, a water compartment in the middle to regulate temperature, and two cooking levels. www.proqsmokers.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

MEET THE M I XO L O GI S T

A NGELO SPARVOLI Head Bartender at St James Bar at Sofitel, London What is the cocktail you would recommend right now on your menu?

I would recommend the ‘Look at You’ cocktail, a twist on a classic rum sour made with Zacapa 23yo rum, Cadello 88 liqueur, lemon juice and banana and chocolate syrup, garnished with golden dark chocolate. Perfect for summer days with a nice sweet and sour balance.

Where do you look to find new trends and inspirations to develop new cocktails?

Usually visiting other bars, connecting with the industry and trying out new cocktails around the city is the best way to figure out the trends. Obviously, these days Instagram makes it easier in a way, as we can find pictures and recipes of cocktails from all around the world.

Besides making cocktails I love cooking too and I follow many high-end restaurants to find inspiration. Pastry is probably where I find most of the ideas though. After all, making cocktails is just “cooking” with ice.

What do you order in a bar when you have a rare night off?

I like to go out to visit friends in other bars and try new cocktails if a new menu has just been launched. Otherwise, I’m very classic: Gin Martini and Negroni are usually my top choices, but I love a good Sazerac as a nightcap or a Brooklyn.

Could you name an underrated cocktail?

Horse’s Neck is probably one of the most underrated cocktails. So simple (brandy and ginger ale) but so tasty and refreshing...I just love it.

What tips would you give our readers for a signature cocktail to serve friends at a dinner party?

Keep it simple! I’m a big believer that “less is more” and you can still impress your guests following some simple steps.

For example; You can follow an easy ratio: 1 part sweet, 2 parts sour, 4 parts spirit for a sour style of cocktail or add a mixer to top up for a more refreshing style of drink.

Pre-batch your signature cocktail in advance: this will allow you to quickly serve your guests without making any mess in your kitchen as you would measure and mix your ingredients in advance and bottle them.

If you’re mixing only alcoholic ingredients you can also add water for dilution, skipping the stirring for example; all you’ll need is to keep your mix refrigerated and pour it over ice, job done.

Choose 2 or 3 key flavours. Too many flavours will cover each other making it harder to distinguish them.

Try not use perishable ingredients or pre-mix. If there’ll be some leftovers you can keep your alcohol bottled without a problem. On the other hand, if you include fresh citrus juices in the mix, they may spoil the whole batch, ending up wasting your precious liquid and money.

Go seasonal: fresh fruit will taste much better!

The home of modern French luxury in London, Sofitel London St James is located on Waterloo Place on the corner of Pall Mall, close to the internationally recognised landmarks of Trafalgar Square and Regent Street. The 125,000 sq ft. Grade II listed building, owned by the Crown Estate, represents one of the most prestigious hotel addresses in London. www.sofitelstjames.com

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LIFE LIFE LIFE LIFE LIFE

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Leven Manchester, 40 Chorlton Street, Manchester, M1 3HW

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

All A Aboard board E ast L ancashi ancashirr e Railwa Railw a y Mike Kelly, Chairman at the East Lancashire Railway, comments on why the dining experiences at ELR are so popular and why people keep revisiting?

O

ur Dining experiences offer guests an opportunity to step back in time, to a bygone era of luxury, by travelling in style and enjoying the whole ambience of heritage travel. It’s also a way of escapism for guests, who can enjoy a first-class service while journeying through the picturesque Lancashire countryside at a gentle pace behind one of our historic steam engines.

Dining with Distinction is perfect for families, couples and those looking for unique never to be forgotten experiences that are special and a real treat after not going anywhere for a long time.

Through the passion of our diner team and support crew, we are very proud to be part of our guests’ experience in delivering a first-class service which fundamentally is at the heart of what we do. Our commitment to quality is nonnegotiable, which is why we only source quality local produce, wines and spirits -

whether it’s a four-course meal, a quintessentially British afternoon tea or one of our unique murder mystery nights.

It's very pleasing to see a real diverse mix of people enjoying our various diner options - from couples celebrating anniversaries, birthdays or having unique date themed nights, to families and groups of friends. People would often come for one occasion and shortly after book for a future personal event, inspired by the unique experience. www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

UPCOMING EVENTS Red Rose Diners - Fridays and Saturdays throughout the rest of the year Afternoon tea - several dates throughout the rest of the year Several murder mystery nights - several dates throughout the rest of the year Gin tasting - 19th August Festive Dining - several lunches and dinner slots in December 57

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Travel New Wav Wave of Lux Lu xury on The Gol Gold Coa Coast

With design inspiration drawn from the facets of a jewel,

the recently opened Langham, Gold Coast is located in a towering architectural gem, which rises between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. From the expansive balconies of each of the 339 suites and rooms, guests will discover uninterrupted panoramic views of pristine beaches, surf perfect waves, as well as the raw beauty of Queensland’s landscape. They’ll also enjoy inviting views of the two lagoon pools with infinity edges which drop off into the Pacific. www.langhamhotels.com/goldcoast

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Travel news

WORDS:CRAIG HOUGH

LIVE LIKE A STAR THIS SUMMER What could be better than an ultra-luxurious villa all to yourself, that has previously welcomed A-list celebrities? Luxury villa rental specialist, The Villa Edit invites you to live like a star this summer and to explore their curated portfolio of the most luxurious homes and villas in the Mediterranean. www.thevillaedit.com

Family Trip To The Capital Perfectly combining privacy and ultra-luxury surroundings, Villa Ulysses is run like your own five-star deluxe hotel, where the only guests are your friends and family. This world-class luxury villa prides itself on being a cut above the rest, with around 95% of guests arriving at the villa on the stunning island of Corfu by private jet. With its own private boat to take you to the villa, you’ll be sure to be arriving in style.

The villa consists of the main house as well as a separate guest house with unforgettable 180-degree view of the sea. Each level of the house has an infinity pool, plus there is a tower with a warm and bubbling jacuzzi shaded by olive trees and a gazebo.

What’s more, there is a private movie room with tiered seating, a sauna and a gym too.

Villa Benita, Lake Como Recently featured in the 2021 film ‘House of Gucci’, Villa Benita stood in as Al Pacino’s Aldo Gucci’s home, and it makes complete sense why this awe-inspiring Lakefront villa was chosen.

Transporting you to the height of ‘90s Italian opulence, Villa Benita is full of history and character. Built by Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio at the end of the 16th-century Villa Benita, this luxury Italian villa was recently restored, whilst maintaining its distinctive character and timeless beauty. The Villa’s grand entrance halls and reception areas are decorated with original floor to ceiling baroque frescoes, and throughout the villa, you discover beautiful antiques, paintings, silks and exotic velvets.

Water’s Edge, St Tropez This opulent Saint Tropez villa, sitting right on the picturesque shores of the Côte d’Azur, has long attracted the wealthy and glamorous, drawn to its exclusive, jet-set reputation, lavish beach clubs and three Michelin-starred dinings.

Villa Water’s Edge will feel like your own private hotel thanks to the fabulous facilities, large ground and incredible staff. The villa offers a truly tailor-made 24-hour service provided by a team of world-class hoteliers, which means you can ensure your stay is exactly as you like it.

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

T he Tra Tr a vel Insid Insi d er This month Phil Aird-Mash, Aird-Mash, CEO of ITC Travel Group offers advice on booking in your bucket-list experiences

A

BLUE LAGOON, OLUDENIZ FETHIYE TURKEY

NAVAGIO BEACH, GREECE

ICELAND IN SUMMER

make sure you see it at its best in 2023.

Our experts at Regent Holidays have all the knowledge you need to create your own personalised self-drive tour to see the most incredible sights.

Wildlife lovers should also make sure they plan their bucket-list experiences with plenty of time. Many areas require permits, which are limited in number to protect conservation efforts. From gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s misty forests to the mesmerising sights of Namibia, planning early ensures you don’t miss out. By speaking with our Rainbow team, you’ll also get the best insider tips to ensure you make the most of any sighting opportunities.

So, whether you’ve been thinking about adding some luxurious winter sun to your calendar, or have something special in mind for next year, don’t delay – by booking ahead you’ll not only give yourself something wonderful to look forward to but should save some money too. www.inspiringtravelcompany.co.uk www.regent-holidays.co.uk www.rainbowtours.co.uk

SELJALANDSFOSS WATERFALL, ICELAND

NAMIBIA

s summer approaches, I’m sure many of you have travel plans in place for a break in the sun. After the past couple of years with limited opportunity for a getaway, many of us have jumped at the chance to make an escape.

However, as we look forward to our upcoming holidays, it’s worth noting that the travel landscape has changed a lot recently. Whereas once last-minute deals could be snapped up, booking well in advance now pays off. With reduced capacity across airlines, and hotels filling up fast, planning early allows you to benefit from the best early booking discounts – especially for top European resorts across Greece, Spain, Cyprus and Turkey.

So, while many holidaymakers are focussed on this summer, I recommend thinking ahead to avoid missing out.

One destination we’ve seen a surge in popularity lately is Iceland. Summer is particularly popular, with hotels and car hire this year almost fully booked.

So, if you’d like to experience the magical midnight sun, book now to

MOUNTAIN GORILLAS, VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK, RWANDA

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Holidays Holidays to to Plan Plan Now Now While summer is in full swing, don’t forget While summer is in full swing,holiday don’t forget to book your winter or 2023 well to book your winter or 2023 holiday well in advance. in advance.

This year, planning your luxury holiday early really pays This year, planning luxuryof holiday early really pays off. Whether you’reyour dreaming a winter adventure, a off .

Whether you’re dreaming of a winter adventure, a sun-soaked new year escape or something extra special, sun-soaked new year escape or something extra special, it’s best to plan early to get exactly what you want. it’s best to plan early to get exactly what you want.

At ITC, we’re the experts in arranging tailor-made, At ITC, we’re travel the experts in arranging personalised experiences.

So, if tailor-made, your next trip is on personalised travel experiences. if your next trip is on your mind, we’re here to make it So, happen.

Our specialist your mind, we’re here to make it happen.

Our specialist travel brands each offer something exceptional – from travel brands each off er something exceptional – from Iceland to Australia, Abu Dhabi to Botswana – so you’re Iceland to Australia, Abu Dhabi to Botswana – so you’re sure to find something to inspire you. sure to find something to inspire you.

Take a look at our top travel ideas that we recommend Take a look at our booking before it’stop tootravel late. ideas that we recommend booking before it’s too late.

Luxury Australia Adventure Luxury Australia Adventure

For the trip of a lifetime, and to soak up For the trip of a lifetime, and soak sights up some winter sun, discover thetoiconic

some winter–sun, sights of Australia seendiscover at their the besticonic between of Australia – seen at their best between November and April. Inspiring Travel can create November April.

Inspiring Travel can create an expertlyand crafted luxury itinerary that’s an expertly crafted luxury itinerary that’s from uniquely personalised to you.

Journeying uniquely personalised to you.

Journeying glamorous Sydney, deep into the outbackfrom to glamorous Sydney, deep into the to Ayer’s Rock and over to the Greatoutback Barrier Reef, Ayer’s Rock and overof toathe Great Barrier Reef, this is surely the trip lifetime. this is surely the trip of a lifetime.

Book it with inspiringtravel.co.uk Book it with inspiringtravel.co.uk

The F1 Grand Prix Finale The F1 Grand Prix Finale

For the ultimate sporting experience this For the ultimate sporting November, experience theexperience Abu Dhabithis Grand November, experience the Abuplatinum Dhabi Grand Prix with Spectate’s exclusive Prix with Spectate’s exclusive platinum hospitality package. You’ll get the full VIP hospitality in package. get thesuite full VIP treatment a privateYou’ll hospitality for treatment in a private hospitality suite for the whole race weekend, with outstanding

the whole race weekend,cuisine with outstanding track views, all-inclusive and luxury track views, all-inclusive cuisine luxurybest. accommodation. This is F1 at its and absolute accommodation. This is F1 at its absolute best.

Book it with spectatetravel.co.uk Book it with spectatetravel.co.uk

Iceland Winter Magic Iceland Winter Magic

With direct flights from Manchester to North With direct ights from Manchester North Iceland nowfltaking off, you can see atodiff erent Iceland nowwinter takingwonderland. off, you can Discover see a diffthe erent side of this side of this winter wonderland.

Discover the geothermal sights of the Diamond Circle and geothermal sights of thelights Diamond Circle and search for the northern dancing across search for the northern lights dancing across the night sky, all without the flock of tourists.

the nightour sky,experts all without the ockordinary of tourists.

Regent, in out of flthe Regent, our experts in out of the ordinary adventures, will make sure you experience it at adventures, will make sure you experience it at its best. its best.

Book it with regent-holidays.co.uk Book it with regent-holidays.co.uk

Beautiful Botswana Beautiful Botswana

If you’re looking for exceptional wildlife tours If you’re looking forofexceptional amongst a variety landscapes,wildlife a safaritours ticks amongst a variety of landscapes, safari ticks all your boxes.

Botswana is at its fianest during all yourseason boxes.from Botswana is at its finest to during green November through

green from November March,season when dramatic colours,through amazingtobirdlife, March, when dramatic colours, amazing and baby animals emerge. As experts in birdlife, Africa, and animals As experts in Africa, Latinbaby America andemerge.

Madagascar, Rainbow will Latin America and Madagascar, Rainbow will create your own authentic experience. create your own authentic experience.

Book it with rainbowtours.co.uk Book it with rainbowtours.co.uk

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

S H OW O W CA S I N G Sofitel London St James Why you should make Sofitel your next London stay

“B

ehind a stunning neoclassical façade in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities lies our exceptional 5-star hotel.

Welcome to Sofitel London St James. The magnificent architecture, the glamorous West End lifestyle, British refinement with just a touch of audacity... Everything you love about London is showcased here. Parisian elegance, which Sofitel embodies so well, only enhances your experience.”

Marie-Paule Nowlis, General Manager The home of modern French luxury in London, Sofitel London St James is located on Waterloo Place on the corner of Pall Mall, close to the internationally recognised landmarks of Trafalgar Square and Regent Street. The 125,000 sq ft. Grade II listed building, owned by the Crown Estate, represents one of the most prestigious hotel addresses in London.

This landmark hotel in the heart of

London’s West End combines British design with a contemporary style that is unmistakably French. A masterpiece by renowned French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, in 2019 the designer updated his original 2002 design to mark a new era for the five-star hotel. The hotel features a restaurant, Wild Honey St James, The Rose Lounge, the St James Bar, a large choice of conference suites and an award-winning spa.

Sofitel London St James is perfect for a London business meeting, event or private celebration. With amenities like the SoSPA (designed over three floors with original historic features), visitors are offered a luxury experience in an original setting.

This is the perfect choice of hotel for modern business travellers as the location is ideal, right opposite the offices of the IOD. Rooms are cool and well equipped to ensure you have a stress-free stay while working away from home. And the hotel bar is a perfect hidden gem to unwind after a long day.

Families can enjoy the luxury of a spacious lounge during a stay in one of their Family Rooms. With a separate king-size bedroom, perfect for families looking for space and supreme comfort during a London getaway. www.sofitelstjames.com 65

GRAVETYE MANOR

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

40 W inks with wit h P ride of Brit rita a in Hote otell s

Treat yourself to a restful retreat where you can switch off, breathe easy, and reconnect with nature for a naturally restorative night’s sleep

P

ride of Britain Hotels understands that few things in life are more important than a good night’s sleep. In celebration of their 40th birthday, they are launching 40 Sleep Specials from their hotels across the British Isles this autumn (from 1st September to 30th November 2022).

Relaxation is the key to the slumber of your dreams, so with 40 blissful packages to choose from, Pride of Britain Hotels will whisk you away to a restful retreat where you can switch off, breathe easy, and reconnect with nature for a naturally restorative night’s sleep.

Take your pick from their serene sleep specials to reset your circadian rhythm, including:

Get Back to Nature in the Cotswolds

CALCOT & SPA

Indulge in the most restful of surroundings at beautiful Calcot & Spa this autumn, set within 220 acres of rewilded Cotswold meadowland. Experience a unique Bee Calm guided walk and feel the rhythmic buzzing of the bees instantly calm you. Explore 220 acres of meadowland on Calcot’s nature trail, breathing in the fresh Cotswold air. Retreat to the spa for the most blissful and sleepinducing treatment, then retire to your room with eye mask and sleep mist in hand.

HAMBLETON HALL

Restore Yourself at Rutland Water Retreat to the peace and tranquillity of Rutland Water with a half-day bird watching and nature walk. Feel the wellbeing benefits of reconnecting with nature and soak up some vitamin D, then indulge in a spoiling meal before retiring for a sumptuous sleep at Hambleton Hall. Embrace the day with a rejuvenating cycle around the water, leaving you feeling energised and immersed in peaceful countryside.

BOVEY CASTLE - DARTMOOR PONIES

Find YourSleep Heaven in Devon

Escape to the wilds of Dartmoor and revitalise with wild swimming, find your inner peace with forest bathing, or admire the tranquil views from the Tors. Indulge a little with afternoon tea by the lake at Bovey Castle, then ease any tension from your body with an aromatherapy massage. Enhance your sleep-like state with a restful pulse point oil and pillow mist, before drifting off to the deepest sleep.

Visit www.prideofbritainhotels.com to book your autumn Sleep Special now 67

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

T he I sl sla a nd of E terna ternall S prin pring g Kathryn Otto and partner enjoyed a weekend of fun in the sun at Meliá Jardines Del Teide in Costa Adeje Tenerife Location

Facilities

Just one mile from Playa del Duque beach, Melia Jardines del Teide sits on the slope of a hill in 12,000 m2 of gardens, providing panoramic views. Take a short stroll to the nearby shopping centres for some retail therapy, or Siam Park is a short taxi ride away.

The Tenerife Reina Sofia South airport is just 12 miles away.

Guests have a choice of 42 junior suites and 258 double rooms located in two 4-storey buildings with lifts. The multilingual staff at the reception desk in the lobby are ready to assist you with check-in and check-out. Amenities include a cloakroom, baggage storage service, safe, currency exchange service and cash machine.

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The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. There are a number of shops, including a souvenir shop, that is great for shopping or just browsing. The grounds of the complex feature a playground and a lovely garden, with additional amenities including a TV room and a playroom. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the garage or in the car park. Further services and facilities include a childcare service, medical assistance, room service, a laundry service, a hairdresser, a coin-operated laundry and a hotel shuttle bus. A bicycle hire service provides all the necessary equipment for exploring the surrounding area.

Guest Rooms and Suites Rooms at the hotel are bright and spacious.

They all have air conditioning and satellite TV. Each room has a balcony or terrace, with views of the pool, sea or mountains.

Free WiFi is available throughout.

The Level services are available in some rooms, including a private lounge with complimentary coffee and tea, a private check-in area and a daily cocktail hour, as well as a private pool and rooms with a pillow menu, and a coffee maker with a selection of coffees and designer toiletries.

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Our Visit The Canary Islands are always on the top of our list to visit when looking for a long weekend away in the sun. As there is a direct flight from Liverpool to Tenerife, we decided to head off to the island for a bit of sun and relaxation and Meliá Jardines Del Teide fulfilled our needs in every way. Centrally located in Costa Adeje we had everything we could need on our doorstep.

The hotel itself was situated on several levels which gave you the most spectacular view of the sea from our balcony, two great swimming pools, with one exclusive to level guests that also offered you bar service. Our room was spacious with a lounge area, large bathroom and a really large balcony where we spent most of our time just soaking up the view and enjoying the sun.

The hotel has everything you would need in a holiday, catering for families with the kid’s club and children’s food menu in the restaurant and plenty of quiet areas for couples to relax and spend time. Our only regret was not booking to stay for longer.

Restaurants and Bars Dining options include a buffet restaurant, a la carte restaurant, lobby bar and a restaurant serving snacks.

Personal Note For added luxury, look no further than The Level Rooms, where you’ll get extra special touches like access to an exclusive lounge, pool and VIP services. www.melia.com

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Drive Stron trongger, Better Better, Faster… Longer?

Nobody could ever accuse the Land Rover Defender of being small, but even the five-door 110 model has been eclipsed by this. It’s called the 130, and it’s essentially a stretched version of the 110 that has proved so popular with buyers. Offering seating for up to eight people, the rear part of the car is more than 30cm longer than that of the existing model. And that space has been put to good use. Land Rover claims all eight seats will accommodate adults with relative ease, while five-seat models provide a maximum boot capacity of more than 2,500 litres. That’s more than you’d get from a fleet of six VW Golfs.

Land Rover Defender 130, www.landrover.co.uk

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DRIVE LIGHT SPEED

Keeping you up to date with all the latest motoring and technology news WORDS: JAMES FOSSDYKE

BMW’s new hardcore M4 CSL brings racing pedigree to the road and track for customers with a need for speed

A

cronyms can always get a bit murky for the uninitiated, but some do better than others. The GTI suffix has a folkloric reputation, and BMW’s CSL branding has become almost as famous among enthusiasts. It stands for Competition, Sport and Lightweight, and that should give you some idea of the CSL ethos. It’s all about the hardcore, performance-orientated versions of BMW’s fastest models.

The latest car to receive the CSL treatment is the latest-generation M4. It’s already a two-door, 3.0-litre sports coupe that’s fast enough to rival supercars, but the CSL model is stripped out and lightened to make the car even faster and more responsive. It still has the same 3.0-litre, six-cylinder engine sending 503bhp to the rear wheels, but with 100kg less weight to lug around, the CSL is two tenths of a second faster from 0-62mph.

That weight-shedding comes courtesy of new carbonfibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) body panels, carbon bucket seats and the removal of the rear seats, which alone has cut a massive 21kg from the total kerb weight. And that doesn’t just make the M4 CSL fast in a straight line; it should corner well too.

All this sounds great, but there will certainly be some disappointed faces in BMW dealers over the coming months.

That’s because the German company will build just 1,000 CSLs, and just 10 will come to the UK. You’d better move fast.

BMW M4 CSL, from £128,820, www.bmw.co.uk 74

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Drive

OUTDOOR STYLE

loves

The GLC-Class mid-size SUV has been a sales sensation for Mercedes-Benz. Enormously popular with customers, it offers a blend of style and comfort that’s difficult to beat. But Mercedes reckons this new model can do just that. It too is called the GLC, and it’s hoping to better its predecessor’s record with hybrid power and updated infotainment systems, as well as a new interior borrowed from the C-Class saloon. It also comes with more off-road capability than its forebears, and there’s some natty new technology to help the driver whether they’re in the Serengheti or suburbia.

Mercedes-Benz GLC, £TBC, www.merecedes-benz.co.uk

BLUE-EYED BENTLEY BOYS Bentley’s reputation is built on sporting success and high luxury, but it’s the latter attribute that’s the focus with the new Azure range. Available across the whole range, including the Bentayga SUV and Continental GT sports coupe, Bentley says the Azure models are designed to offer “wellbeing behind the wheel”. That means the cars get 22-way adjustable seats for maximum comfort and bags of safety equipment to help relax the driver and occupants. There’s also a panoramic roof to let in the maximum amount of ambient light into the cabin, while the exterior is finished with classy, “timeless” bright chrome exterior trim.

Bentley Azure, £POA, www.bentleymotors.com

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Drive | The CHESHIRE Magazine

No, Mr Mr B Bo ond, I Expect

You to F ly

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Drive

The go-faster Aston Martin DBX shares its name with an old airliner, and it’s almost as powerful, as James Fossdyke has been finding out

S

teve Miller once told us his heart kept calling him backwards as he got on the [Boeing] 707, but I had absolutely no such compunction about slipping into the Aston Martin of the same name. That’s partly because it’s a brand new SUV, rather than a 65-year-old airliner, and partly because it’s among the most exciting new Aston Martins of the past decade.

The product of a new deal between the fabled British manufacturer and Mercedes-AMG, the new DBX707 is an evolution of the DBX SUV that caused such a stir when it was revealed in 2019.

The original car had a 542bhp 4.0-litre Mercedes-AMG petrol engine, which Aston’s engineers desperately wanted to fettle. But Mercedes said no, until a new deal was struck between the two companies.

Now, Aston Martin’s engineers have had their wicked way with the engine and indeed the rest of the car, creating the astounding new ‘707’ model. With modified turbochargers and revised software, the new car produces a mind-blowing 697bhp (that’s 707PS for those who prefer metric measurements – hence the name), but Aston couldn’t just give the car more power and have done with it.

Producing more power means sucking more air into the engine, both to mix with the petrol and cool the whole thing down. That meant expanding the front grille to draw more air into the engine bay, which dramatically altered the design of the front end. Not only is the grille now enormous, but the car is so thirsty for cooling air that the daytime running lights in the lower part of the bumper have been completely redesigned to free up more air intake space.

But the front end is only part of the overhaul.

Everywhere you look, the DBX707 has new additions, from the side skirts to the rear bumper and from the vents on the flanks to the spoiler at the back of the roof, it’s all new and improved.

All of which means the 707 is no more aerodynamic than the standard DBX. That

sounds like a criticism, but when you consider the need for drag-inducing cooling vents, it’s an impressive achievement.

But while the 707 is styled partly by science, the effect is somewhat more emotional. The high-powered car looks much meaner than the ‘standard’ DBX, which is now known as the ‘550’. It’s much more aggressive and, to my eyes at least, much easier on the eye. Maybe the grille is a bit much, but as DBXs go, this is the gold standard.

Yet while the exterior is vastly different, the interior is much the same as before. Sure, there’s a new driving mode selector and some new buttons for various suspension and exhaust settings, but it’s largely the same as before.

Which means you get some lovely leather upholstery and a navigation system more or less lifted from Mercedes-Benz. Perhaps it isn’t the greatest infotainment screen in the world – there’s quite a fiddly laptop-style touchpad to control it with – but it looks good and it works well.

The big surprise is the space. The boot measures 632 litres, which means there’s more space in the Aston Martin than in a Lamborghini Urus or a Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT. Of course, all three are more than capable of carrying your holiday luggage, but the Aston is still a very practical thing. It’s spacious in the cabin, too. Carrying four adults is no hardship, and all the luxury features you expect are present and correct.

That’s partly because, despite the DBX707’s sporting intent, the engineers were adamant that the high-performance version should lose none of the standard car’s capability on- or off-road.

Although it’s clearly much faster, Aston Martin decided it should be just as comfortable as the standard DBX and just as good over rough terrain. That meant the ground clearance would have to remain unchanged in normal and off-road modes, while the 707 can also be specified with a tow bar for customers who

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Drive | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Aston Martin DBX707 Price: From £189,000 Engine: 4.0-litre twinturbocharged petrol V8 Top speed: 193mph 0-62mph: 3.3 secs Power: 697bhp

regularly pull horses or race cars. Or both.

Which is why in its ‘standard’ setting, known as GT mode, the 707 doesn’t feel especially sporty.

When you start off, it’s every bit as comfortable and as approachable as its less powerful sister, but ramping it up into the sportier settings allows the car to bare its teeth. The engine note becomes more aggressive, turning the V8 engine from a snoring guard dog to a snarling wolf, and the car becomes more responsive.

Prodding the throttle will lead to an instant surge forwards, while the steering and brakes feel sharper and more direct.

The suspension gets stiffer, too, giving the DBX greater control of its bulk. Even when you corner hard, the body doesn’t wallow or lean excessively, although there’s more pitch and roll than you’d find in a Lamborghini Urus.

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But grip is plentiful and cornering speeds are still immense. It feels more like a GT car than an SUV. It rides like one too. The Urus is stiff and unyielding on anything but the smoothest road surface, but the DBX707 just glides over the bumps. Even when you switch into one of the sportier settings, Aston’s engineers decided the 707 should lose none of the DBX’s refinement, and they have achieved that brilliantly.

Whether you want to drive fast or cruise around, the DBX707 is properly capable, and that makes it a better all-rounder than pretty much anything else out there.

We’re lucky to have a slew of great luxury super-SUVs to choose from at the moment. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT is one of the best, as is the Lamborghini Urus, while the new Range Rover Sport looks likely to be quite spectacular. The DBX707, however, eclipses pretty much all comers. It may not have the breathtaking cornering ability of the Urus or the cabin quality of the Bentley Bentayga, but when it comes to performance and driving, the 707 has only one rival: the Porsche. I’ve spent all month wondering which one I’d choose, and I still can’t make my mind up.

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Visit our beautiful Wilmslow Showroom to discover everything you need to refresh your garden just in time for summer. Alternately, call 01625 529585 or visit bridgman.co.uk to shop online.

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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

CLEAR LIVING With over 25 years of industry experience, Clear Living is a market leader in the design, supply and installation of structural and frameless glass for residential and commercial clients

N

o home would be complete without windows and doors. But with more architects opting to explore the structural qualities of glass in their designs, glazing is being placed firmly at the heart of modern home building.

Clear Living is a market leader in the design, supply and installation of structural and frameless glass to residential and commercial clients. Based in Cheshire, where they have undertaken some of their most impressive projects as well as working throughout the UK, Channel Isles and into Europe.

Visually light yet structurally strong, glass has long been favoured by architects as a means of opening a building up to its environment while still protecting it from the elements. Whether your home is set in the beautiful Cheshire countryside or a more urban

environment, your view can be seen from your kitchen, living or bedroom.

Clear Living specialises in only the highest rated glazing systems meaning they can adapt their systems and designs to both modern and contemporary buildings whilst also being able to adapt and work with historical and listed buildings. With their own in-house specialist glazing

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Homes and Interiors

engineers, they are able to ensure their glazing designs and installations meet the requirements of even the most challenging buildings.

Sky-Frame represents the ultimate in glazing innovation, design and technology. Featuring a diverse variety of beautiful sliding doors, this range is the result of years of glazing research, knowledge and experience. Sky-Frame sliding doors feature narrow sightlines as low as 20mm, no framework at the edges, minimalist handles and locks with options for sloped and curved panels as well as automation.

One of the great appeals of structural glazing is that it gives the feeling of bringing the outdoors

inside and creating a connection which hasn’t been possible until now. Typically used at the rear of the property, where people put their kitchen, dining and living spaces – areas where the view are usually the best and the whole experience of connecting the inside with the outside becomes more meaningful.

Glass Box extensions can create a completely clear, frameless extension space with no metal supports visible. The use of frameless structural glass with laminated glass fins and beams allows the entire construction to be completely glass, thus allowing you to extend your house with an ultra-modern structure capable of bringing more light and space into your home and enabling you to enjoy your garden and views throughout each season.

01606 45109, www.clear-living.co.uk

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Home | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Case Study

Pepe Ca C a lder lderii n’s M a jestic M illio illion n Dollar Penth entho ouse in Miam iamii MIAMI - CAPITAL OF LATIN AMERICA

Located in Miami this wonderful house by Pepe Calderin is a dream home, facing one of the most luxurious marinas in the city, it presents an incredible view. Miami is known for its tropical climate, warm most of the year, without major fluctuations, perfect to live and also to spend a beautiful long vacation. Located in a quiet area, this house is close to major business centres as well as nightlife venues, with easy access to beautiful beaches. This city is host and home to many major world companies, economically very developed is a place for those who can, and this house can.

Inspired by the elegance and light of Miami contrasted with the eccentricity of the designer Pepe Calderin we can check out the best of both worlds.

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ABOUT PEPE CALDERIN Pepe Calderin is a Cuban Interior Designer who has lived in Miami for over 30 years. At the age of 21 he lost his way and his career and found himself working for an Architecture and Interior Design firm as an errand boy where he began to learn how to read plans and help designers with their different tasks. Years later, after working as a designer for the company, he teamed up with the architect who headed the firm to create Levine Calderin Associates which later became Pepe Calderin Design once his former partner retired.

Today, Pepe Calderin is a renowned interior designer based in New York and Miami. Responsible for large, high-profile projects, the designer has over 20 years of national and international experience, working in America, Europe and Saudi Arabia. With a path full of awards, Pepe is recognized for his innovative, energetic and visionary approach to the modern design process, based on the philosophy that

Homes and Interiors

“A space has no limits and has unlimited possibilities”.

His team includes five outstanding professionals who strive daily to create open and dynamic environments that connect with their clients, making each project a reflection of the client’s personality and lifestyle. Pepe comments, “My priority is making my clients part of the process to really understand their needs and to have their styles be part of the process which always leads me to challenge myself in the process of creating the spaces. Thinking out of my box is the key to every project”.

HOME Pepe embarked on this adventure and designed this beautiful house in Miami — “Creating this project was so much fun. This was a project to think out of the box and manifest how great and limitless a space can be. Being free and having an open mind and heart for every project is my main creative process. I open myself to the unknown”, stated Pepe.

Taking a short tour of this house composed of two bedrooms for children and the master bedroom, with a kitchen accompanied by the dining room, living

room plus the family room and an office, still presents us with a cute playroom for children, a bar area with pool table and a cinema. Throughout the house we can see that art is highly valued, we can see statuettes, several paintings and decor that are authentic works of art. All products in this project were meticulously chosen, and are of excellent quality and finish, with international luxury brands such as Essential Home, DelightFULL and Mid Century Club.

LIVING ROOM Starting with the living room, we see a huge rug in shades of green with a snake pattern contrasting with the black of the Marco armchairs and the white of the Fitzgerald modular sofa, highlighting the golds of the centre table that give a glamorous touch to the room.

Fitzgerald was the perfect choice for this living room because it is completely adaptable to the measurements of the spaces. It is the perfect modular sofa that can be the true shapeshifter. Rounded and oversized, with a low backrest and a cockpit structure, the new version of the Fitzgerald sofa by Studiopepe is modular in shape, colour and design, providing

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Home | The CHESHIRE Magazine

FINISHING TOUCHES AD EXCESTIS MAIO BERIBUSCIM VOLUM ACCABOR MOD ET ACCULLUPTUS ET UT QUAS UNTIO EXCERERFERUM VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS EST UT ET RE RE, SAM LAUT QUUNTIOS MOD MAIO. ITAE QUISTOT ATEMPOR EHENDIT EIUNT

FAMILY ROOM

individual comfort like no other. With the same Italian architectural inspiration, the sectional module series can be arranged in virtually any desired shape for any space.

DINING ROOM In the dining room, gold tones predominate, both in the Lane suspension lamp by DelightFULL and in the Monocles sideboard by Essential Home, which contrasts with the black of the Collins dining chairs. Highlights include the Monocles, a piece full of history, inspired by the Bond film. With its solid walnut wood frames and gilded brass legs, it is the ideal piece for retro lovers and Mid-Century style admirers.

“A space has no boundaries and has endless possibilities”, Pepe Calderin

KITCHEN Again in golden tones, with red accents, this kitchen is incredibly modern and current. With Kelly bar chairs, best sellers from Essential Home, who wouldn’t want to enjoy this kitchen? Inspired by the sculpted arches of the bar in the classic movie Casablanca, it is an unforgettable international piece, besides being stylish, it was made to be comfortable and to withstand long periods of sitting.

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A room dedicated to the family, where socialising and entertainment are enjoyed. In lighter tones than we have seen, we have in the foreground the beige colour with a touch of peach colour in the bench and armchairs. This room has a cleaner look, perfect for the whole family to sit and be in harmony.

MASTER BEDROOM Going through to the master bedroom, we can see a different environment from the other areas we have seen so far, we see a room in darker and cleaner tones, without big patterns and colours. Pepe opted for a palette of blue tones combined with whites and golds. The bed made especially for this project was inspired by the Loren armchair from Essentia Home, lit by Gallianos suspension lamps and the Karlotta armchair designed by Karim Rashid.

OFFICE Finally, we have the office, a more professional place where you can keep all the household distractions outside the door. It’s a very spacious office, with two beautiful statues created from scratch on purpose for this project. Accompanied by the Minelli armchair, a classic-looking armchair that is both stunning and timeless, proving that Mid Century style hasn’t gone out of style yet. www.essentialhome.eu

Your local care homes

Our highly trained care teams are specialists in residential, dementia and respite care, including nursing care at many locations. With some of the highest care ratings in the UK, we’re trusted to help you and your family at every step of your journey.

If you’re considering permanent care for yourself or a loved one, call 0333 230 4989 to arrange a tour or one-to-one chat, or visit careuk.com

Trusted to care.

Abney Court, Cheadle Deewater Grange, Chester Ladybrook Manor, Bramhall Oakfield Croft, Sale Metchley Manor, Edgbaston

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M arbell arbella a:

It Is Very Ni N ice Here, Shall We Stay Stay?

Mark FR Wilkins breaks down why a relocation to Marbella may be the best move for you

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here is, of course, an ocean of difference between being a holidaymaker and choosing to relocate. The very idea of a holiday is to take you away from your everyday life to enjoy quality time with family and friends and recharge your batteries.

Many of you will be very familiar with the “resort” of Marbella - and its Costa del Sol neighbours - with your favourite beach clubs, bars and restaurants but less may have a more detailed experience that includes locally schooling your children, pool and garden maintenance services and those building companies who can transform your living environment. This picture of daily reality sits alongside the contentment that comes from an appreciation of a hugely privileged lifestyle, in a majestic environment while soaking up the cool, almost bohemian, vibe.

The picture postcard dream of waking up to the Spanish sunshine is high on the wish lists of many but enjoying all of the seasons of the year, which are less defined, is a constant joy.

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The prevailing themes that we hear from clients seeking to enjoy their version of a ‘Life in the Sun’, is as a direct result of two unconnected issues. The first is a new reality that has arrived post-Covid and is summed up in the expression “life is too short”. Putting off to tomorrow - or the day after - is now no longer an option, grasping at the chance of enjoying life to the full is no longer limited by procrastination. There is a new positivity that the worst is behind us and the success of the vaccine programme has meant that if you do contract the virus your likely experience will, hopefully, be no more severe than a bad case of the flu. So why not go for it and live the life that you have always dreamt of!

The second is that for many the prospect of retirement is not something they perhaps ever want to consider but why would they when their work makes them happy and fulfilled as part of an active lifestyle.

Their only limitation is that they may not live in their chosen environment. Teleworking and wideband fiber optic cables have liberated many from the tiresome drudgery of being desk-bound. Choosing a property with a home office - as so many now have - releases you from the need to be present, in the physical sense, for five days a week or more. Combined with perhaps the best infrastructure of toll roads and airports in Europe returning to attend a meeting in the UK in the morning and returning to Marbella in the evening is now entirely feasible.

The one limiting factor that is now just an issue that requires dealing with is the post-Brexit legacy that holding a UK passport makes you a resident of a non-European Union (EU) country. It is therefore

Homes and Interiors

necessary to consider your options and to consider whether there is interest in applying for a visa that can turn a limited number of days stay into a more attractive lifestyle solution. Without the requisite visa, your ability to stay in the EU is limited to 90 days in any 180 day period. By successfully applying for say, a Spanish-issued so-called “Golden Visa”, you are permitted to live in Spain for any period you chose.

As a result, if you live in Spain for less than 183 days there is no consequential obligation, in Spain, to file a tax return of your worldwide income. Any longer than 183 days and you will become a Spanish tax resident with all that entails.

There are criteria that you need to fulfil to apply and be successful in the Golden Visa process and one of the best ways of satisfying this is with the correct purchase of a qualifying property. Care needs to be taken when making your purchase and your advisors need to have a thorough understanding of the legislation.

In my experience of over twenty years of living in this region, you will never regret your decision and many kick themselves for not doing it sooner. The profile of new settlers in Marbella is changing with many now being in their thirties and forties.

The Spanish state has decided that it wants to be at the forefront of the tech revolution and has a slate of new legislation designed at making it easier to open new companies and to attract people to Spain to work in the entrepreneurial economy.

In Malaga, the provincial capital about half an hour by car from Marbella, the Andalusia Technology Park (Parque Tecnologico) is a massive success. It has

become the hub for both international businesses whose staff have been presented with a lifestyle choice to be based in Southern Spain but also an epicentre for new and innovative start-up businesses taking on the challenges of the new economy. The region has been known for years as the California of Europe but more recently Malaga is now being referred to as “New Silicon Valley”.

Of course, it depends through whose eyes you see it, but many have a fixed view of what Marbella was but then again many are looking with great optimism to a future in the Marbella region. Is it perhaps something you’d like to consider? Come and see us, even for a few days’ vacation, my suspicion is that you may choose to stay longer.

Should you be interested in discussing the legal process involved in buying a property in the Marbella region, we would be delighted to assist you. Our multi-disciplinary team of bi-lingual, highly experienced and wholly independent Abogados and Asesores Fiscales are ready to help you.

Please call me, Mark FR Wilkins, during usual business hours on +34 600 343 917 or, if you prefer, e-mail me at mark@roslegal.es Please note that our posts are for general interest. There is no substitute for proper legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances as provided by a qualified Abogado who is experienced in the application of Spanish Law. www.MarbellaPropertyLawyers.home.blog

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Hot Property

DUNHAM HOUSE DUNHAM-ON-THE-HILL, FRODSHAM, CHESHIRE AN IMPRESSIVE FAMILY RESIDENCE COMPLETE WITH COMPREHENSIVE LEISURE FACILITIES SET IN PRIVATE GROUNDS CLOSE TO CHESTER

£2,750,000

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unham House is situated in the rural hamlet of Dunham-on-the-Hill some 6 miles to the north east of Chester. It comprises a relatively modern country house dating back to the latter part of the 20th century which has been improved and adapted of late. The property offers generous family accommodation with open plan living space and 5 bedroom suites. In addition to the main residence there is an attached leisure complex with indoor swimming pool, hot tub, solarium, sauna and treatment room.

The property stands in a private mature garden setting surrounded by sweeping lawns and a series of ponds enclosed by established trees and shrubs. The whole extending to approximately 5.92 acres (2.39 hectares). www.jackson-stops.co.uk

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Key Features • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

•

Reception Hall Cloakroom/W.C. Drawing Room Inner Hall Cinema Room Snooker Room Boot Room Utility Room Open plan Kitchen with dining and living areas Rear Hall with Cloakroom off Office with Kitchenette off Master Bedroom with en-suite dressing and bathroom Guest Bedroom with en-suite shower room - 3 Further Bedrooms with dressing rooms and en-suite bathrooms Walk-in Linen cupboard

The Leisure Complex • Heated indoor Swimming Pool & Hot Tub • Solarium • Changing room with shower & W.C. • Sauna • Treatment Room • Entertaining Room with Bar & Kitchenette

Gardens • • • • •

& Grounds

Formal lawned gardens Interconnecting ponds Garaging & Garden Store Tennis Court Specimen Trees & Shrubs

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Hot Property

ADVERT SOUTH QUAY PLAZA CANARY WHARF, E14 9WS THE DEVELOPMENT IS PERFECTLY LOCATED FOR SOUTH QUAY DLR AND JUST 500M FROM THE CANARY WHARF JUBILEE LINE GIVING EASY ACCESS TO THE HEART OF THE CAPITAL, MAKING IT A GREAT BASE FROM WHICH TO EXPLORE OR COMMUTE.

£1,722,500

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he property is set within 2.6 acres of beautiful, landscaped gardens, on the waterfront of South Dock, with views from apartments overlooking the famed and iconic London city skyline. Each resident is provided automatic membership to The Quay Club, an exclusive onsite array of world-class resident facilities which include outdoor hot tubs (part of its ‘Bamboo Sanctuary’), and sky meadow gardens. For those in the mood, the 56th-floor rooftop bar and terrace are for residents only and are unbelievable.

The Canary Wharf area has lots

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going on also, making it a wise investment choice – from the new Eden Project London base that opened a couple of months ago giving people the opportunity to open water swim in the water

around the Wharf to the announcement of the building of a new science lab that will be Europe’s largest commercial lab, bringing jobs and opportunities with it. www.berkeleygroup.co.uk

Home Homes and Interiors The CHESHIRE Magazine |

FINISHING TOUCHES AD EXCESTIS MAIO BERIBUSCIM VOLUM ACCABOR MOD ET ACCULLUPTUS ET UT QUAS UNTIO EXCERERFERUM VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS EST UT ET RE RE, SAM LAUT QUUNTIOS MOD MAIO. ITAE QUISTOT ATEMPOR EHENDIT EIUNT

Key Information • Perfectly located for South Quay DLR and just 500m from the Canary Wharf Jubilee line, with plans for a footbridge linking to the Elizabeth line • Set within 2.6 acres of beautiful, landscaped gardens • The waterfront of South Dock is the glittering backdrop to SQP • Views over London through floor-to-ceiling glazing • A choice of interiors in three colour palettes: Adriatic, Aegean and Levantine • Access to residents’ only 56th-floor bar and terrace • Access to residents’ ‘The Quay Club’ offers incredible resident facilities • The Bamboo Sanctuary offers a luxury spa, sauna, outside hot tubs, gym and health suite • The iGarden offers modern and flexible work and study space • Private dining and meeting rooms • Stunning roof garden, boasting views across London – including vibrant roof gardens every 19 floors (56 floors total) such as the Sky Meadow • SQP will also benefit from new retail space at the ground floor, including bars, restaurants and local convenience stores

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Home | Homes and Interiors The CHESHIRE Magazine

And Finally ...

Channel the spirit of resort glamour with Jonathan Adler’s generously sized, thick and thirsty beach towels in four new designs. Brighten up your beach day with the boldest colourway there is: the rainbow. Get twice the looks with two signature Muse visages on a bold jewel-toned blue background. Make sure your towel matches your oversized sunnies with 60s inspired concentric squares in cool and hot hues or keep cool with the colours of Capri and a Colosseum-inspired motif. White sand beach to infinity pool to patio or park, they look as good draped across a chaise lounge as they do wrapped around your shoulders.

Jonathan Adler Beach Towels, £120 each, www.uk.jonathanadler.com

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