Affinity Luxury Lifestyle Magazine July 2023

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PRICELESS

www.affinitymag.co.uk AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE WWW.AFFINITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

SUMMER ESCAPES SORTED

. Portugal . Egypt . Meribel . Savoie . Cornwall

Sun-Kissed Glow With the best fake tans around

ISSUE 150

Hangxiety How to prevent the fear

ISSUE 150

STYLISH SWIMWEAR

Styles to suit everyone

Coastal Chic Transport your interiors

to carefree beach days.

Last Minute Suppers

Mouthwatering Recipes you'll Love

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LETTER EDITOR’S

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Wherever you’re spending summer this year and whatever you’re doing, I like to think you’ll grab a copy of Affinity and let us inspire you.

From Coastal interiors to swimwear that’ll have you looking holiday chic, we’ve got something for everyone – Even a tan without having to go anywhere.

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Are you inspired and in awe of certain things that happen? Very often those awe-inspiring moments happen by accident we see an amazing sunset or witness a heroic act. But what if we were to seek out moments of awe and wonder, how would we feel? Page 16 explains how to go in search of awesomeness.

There’s still time to book your summer getaway, or maybe you’re waiting until later in the year, whatever you’re doing we’ve got some amazing places to add to your list; Shepherd Huts in Cornwall, The Wonders of the World in Egypt, Luxury Suites in Portugal and soak up the sun in the French Mountains.

Summer is also a time when we all make the most of outdoor living, it’s when we decide to pour ourselves a chilled glass of wine and just enjoy. It’s an extension of our indoor living space, and most of our dining is done alfresco, we have some great recipes (page 28) and wines (page 31) that are perfect to serve to family and friends this summertime.

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Until next month – Have fun in the Sun!

Jane x 1. Tutti Fruity Dress, £195, Rebecca Rhodes 2. Cluster Ring, £69, Amelia Scott 3. Rose Gold Luggage, From £79, www.dunelondon.com 4. Earrings, £8.99, New Look 5. Straw Bag, £50, Accessorize Don’t forget to join us on social media, we love getting to know you!

www.affinitymag.co.uk

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Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 07507 602401 Advertising: jane@affinitymag.co.uk Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita dave@affinitymag.co.uk

@affinitymagz

All adverts are printed in good faith. Affinity cannot take responsibility for the content of adverts. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are accurate. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

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Contents Affinity

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July 2023

8 Midlife Skin Changes 15 Hot Picks 18 Glowing & Gorgeous 21 Making Waves 23 Splash of Colour 27 Foodie News 32 Rooftop Wine 34 Coastal Calm 38 It’s a Hard Knock Life 44 Ancient Wonders 50 Sun in the Mountains 54 Weekend Starts Here

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On The Cover Pretty Little Thing

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Crucial Skin Changes

in your 40s Our forties seem to be game-changing years when it comes to our skin. Hada Labo Tokyo Japan’s top selling skincare brand - has found that 48% of women noticed more lines on their face when they hit this decade, with 39% noticing more dryness and 34% spotting a lack of elasticity.

It’s certainly a turning point for our skin care regime too as the Hada Labo Tokyo research discovered how more than half of women changed their skincare routine when they hit their forties with 88% of women who are not yet 40, anticipating making changes when they hit this age.

Sadly, the same research has found that fewer than one in 10 of us always feel happy with our skin’s appearance. As we age, our skin- the body’s largest organ- naturally loses moisture, which can cause wrinkles to form. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and pollution can also cause changes to our skin as can our dietary choices. Plus, hormonal changes can also have an impact on our skin such as the hormonal changes that occur during the menopause.

The Menopause This huge hormonal life change tends to occur in women aged between 45 and 55 and it can cause noticeable changes in the skin’s appearance.

During perimenopause - the period leading up to menopause - a woman’s ovaries produce less oestrogen, causing an imbalance with the hormone progesterone. It’s oestrogen that helps skin to maintain its plumpness and moisture, so when we lose it, our skin can dry out, this lack of oestrogen also means lower collagen levels.

Collagen helps our skin remain firm. It’s important to work with these skin changes that are caused by the menopause, so we can help keep our skin in great condition.

Change in Routines Our daily routines really have experienced a serious shake up in recent years, mainly due to

the lifestyle changes that were borne from the Covid-19 pandemic. According to the latest Hada Labo Tokyo research, over a quarter of women feel their routine has changed a lot due to an increase in working from home.

Nearly half of women are washing their hair less, 43% have noticed a change in their sleep patterns and 40% have changed the hours in which they have meals. In fact, 42% blame a poorer diet for negatively affecting their skin health.

Along with wholefoods, antioxidant-rich diet, packed with colourful fruits and vegetables, cleansing facial skin twice a day is vital. A quick cleanse is fine in the morning, but a deep cleanse is essential in the evening. Try massaging cleanser into facial skin for a minute or two before removing.

Sun Damage UV light from the sun can also play a big role in the health of our skin. Worryingly, research shows that 67% of women don’t use a daily sunscreen. Plus, on warm summer days in the UK, 38% admitted that they would only apply sunscreen once before they leave the house, and nearly a quarter of women admit that they don’t carry around sunscreen during the summer months.

Try applying sunscreen to your face at least 3 times a day.

Too Much Screen Time Always on zoom calls? We’re scrunching up our faces as we sit on calls, leading to more fine lines and wrinkles. All the light from our screens can also lead to a dull appearance, with the rise in working from home only contributing to the rise in zoom calls and screen time.

Anti-ageing Skin Facial Sheet Mask A DIY facial massage at least twice a week, works the 40 or more muscles in the face. The more you move them, the more lifted, tightened and toned they become, busting stress at the same time.

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Beauty NEWS Consciously Created

Summer Soothers

Zelens Glacier Foam Renewing Cleanser (£48) and Zelens Aqua Shisho Hydrating Gel Cream (£65) available from www.zelens.com are the perfect combination for cool, quenched skin this summer.

The Glacier Foam Renewing Cleanser is refreshing and clarifying, formulated to effectively remove environmental pollutants, surface impurities, excess oil and all traces of makeup while respecting skin’s moisture balance.

Whilst the Aqua Shisho Hydrating Gel Cream is rich in fermented extract from green Shiso leaves. Fortified with low molecular weight hyaluronic acid and a complex of natural, plant-derived sugars, and delivers water to thirsty skin.

Woodwick have Introduced a collection of candles consciously created to help you make a thoughtful choice that reflects your discerning style. Each fragrance within the collection has been designed with sustainability in mind and features a plantbased, soy and coconut wax blend that is free of dyes.

Elegant and stylish, the ReNew vessels are produced using 55% post-consumer recycled glass and feature a cork lid made from responsibly sourced trees; The collection comprises six beautifully unique fragrances and include; Cherry Blossom & Vanilla, Ginger & Turmeric, Lavender & Cypress, Tomato Leaf & Basil, Incense & Myrrh and Black Currant & Rose Priced from £26.99 and available from www.woodwick.yankeecandle.co.uk

Glow Up

Get ready to leave your skin feeling fresh and radiant with the newest launch from Ella & Jo, the Glow Up Enzyme Mask (£34, www.ellaandjo.co.uk) formulated with gentle exfoliating fruit acids, hydrating Hyaluronic Acid and brightening Vitamin C - formulated together to brighten and rejuvenate the skin, unblock pores and accelerate cell renewal, leaving your skin feeling fresh, smooth and naturally radiant!

The Perfect Palette

BPerfect Cosmetics have released their brand new eyeshadow palette featuring 15 cool and neutral matte shades, each with light-reflecting pigments and intense metallic shimmers.

The Gravity Shadow Palette (£19.95, www.bperfectcosmetics.com) is the perfect palette to take to any festival this summer, enabling users to create beautiful smokey colour stories, statement eyes frosted nineties eyeshadow trend. With high-pigmentation and a luxe formula, eyeshadow looks will last all day while the light-reflecting pigments will catch stage lights to create a gorgeous sparkling effect.

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Hangxiety: How to Prevent The Fear Google searches for the term "hangxiety" have risen by 120% in the past year, suggesting many of us are left feeling anxious the morning after.

Alcohol is hard on the brain and body. Dehydration is certainly a factor, but there are less well known effects at play as well. On average it takes about a day to fully metabolise the alcohol after a night out.

Alcohol compromises our ability to hold back emotions - a brain factor called "gating". Combined with other weakening factors such as fatigue from staying up late and poor quality of sleep that alcohol gives us, emotions can be unusually close to the surface the following day.

While alcohol is still in the system new neural nets don't form properly, and learning is compromised.

Rather than making solid new connections while learning, the dendrites (the little neuron arms) tend to miss their targets and connect where they shouldn't. It is the same effect as seen in foetal alcohol syndrome, when there is alcohol in the system new neural nets struggle to form. Even in an adult this can cause shrinkage to the brain and damage the nervous system.

As a result a hangover gives us a glimpse as to what lies under the surface of our conscious mind. If anger is the underlying propensity, after a night out "hangry-ness" will be the result. If anxiety is your underlying habit (as it is for so many), "hangxiety" will be at the forefront. For others, low mood or depression can come to the fore.

We spoke to the experts at Brainworks Neurotherapy who share their 7 tips to help with 7 “hangxiety”

1. Prevent the Dehydration The dehydration alcohol causes is normally to blame for the inevitable next day headache. While you’re out, remember to keep yourself hydrated. Keep drinking water throughout the night in between the alcoholic drinks. Although it may not stop the headache all together, the added hydration will certainly help relieve some of the anxiety.

2. Line your Stomach Before going out make sure to eat something.

Drinking on an empty stomach can be dangerous.

Not only will people become drunk quicker, but there

is an increased risk of getting sick the next day. The lack of food will make the alcohol more difficult to process in the body and then detox, prolonging the “hangxiety” symptoms.

3. Sleep it Off Alcohol can negatively impact quality of sleep. A 2013 study found that sleep deprivation amplified reactions in the amygdala and anterior insula. These are parts of the brain that are associated with anxiety. By sleeping and resting, the body will calm down and alleviate some of the anxious feelings.

Sleeping will also give the reactions in amygdala and anterior insula time to regulate.

4. Rehydrate Yourself Consumption of alcohol causes dehydration and also stops the production of electrolytes. The brain needs electrolytes to function, keep balanced, carry electrical charges and importantly regulate hydration. After a night out, reach for a sports drink to rehydrate quickly. These are packed with electrolytes which will increase the body’s low electrolyte levels, rehydrate and improve brain function.

5. Eat to Regulate Blood Sugars Alcohol can play havoc with the body’s blood sugar levels. A slump in blood sugars can cause nausea, which contributes to the “hangxiety” symptoms. To help with this opt for a lighter meal, containing complex carbs to increase blood sugars. This will help the body regulate the blood sugar levels and alleviate any feelings of nausea.

6. Speak to your Friends for Reassurance To ease your mind, speak to the people you went out with for some reassurance about the previous night's events. Getting your thoughts and worries out there will help ease the “hangxiety” and your friends can provide some reassurance and hopefully put your mind at rest.

7. Set Yourself a Limit for Next Time Even after the hangover symptoms have passed there may be lingering “hangxiety”. Ahead of the next night out think about how to prevent the “hangxiety”.

Set yourself a limit, for some this could be a number of drinks across the night. For others, it may be a time limit for each drink to avoid drinking too quickly.

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Midlife Madness As we go thought life we collect certain badges of honour.

It may start simple with literal badges for achievement or effort – I am not a proud Blue Peter badge owner but I wish I was! As we get older the badges change a bit and we collect certificates and qualifications. But we might also get our ears (or other places) pierced, get tattoos, or wear particular clothes that somehow add to our sense of identity and may be worn with a great sense of pride.

Lots of people would wear an engagement or wedding ring with pride and of course ‘labels’ may be a great source of pride/honour to many – you wouldn’t hide a Louis Vuitton jacket or a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes. They can be a badge that says look at me aren’t I doing well!

There are other less glamourous badges of honour too – children may have a sense of pride in a plaster following a break or even scuffed knees or minor injuries from sporting ‘heroism’.

Being pregnant is something most people feel immensely proud of and clearly, it’s something that becomes quite tough to hide, but many women enjoy the extra attention that being pregnant can bring -having a baby is a wonderfully life affirming thing and many people will chat and comment on brand new babies.

As we age, these badges may change, grey hair can be something that is seen as a bit of a badge (wrinkles less so perhaps) and even things like a walking stick can be seen as a ‘badge’ whilst having enormous practical advantages too.

As a grandma I have collected a number of badges lately though not all as tasteful as others.

Obviously, I love pushing the pram proudly or when in cafes wandering around with our little fairly newborn

grandson and I delight in the oohs and aahs from perfect strangers who tell me how cute he is – I mean he is and that is clearly a very unbiased opinion.

But ‘baby’ badges don’t just end with pram pushing. I saw a brilliant meme the other day referring to the fact that new mums may talk of their baby being stinky – I mean they do eject a lot of bodily fluids from almost every orifice but many of us will remember that as a new mum finding times to shower may be tough and I bet we have all ventured out with some unseen baby puke down or back or even some very questionable stains on our jeans that we may not have noticed before leaving the house.

Having recently spent time with a fairly wee one I forgot how these tiny humans can create messes that far outweigh their size.

The poonamie that a new one can create has to be seen to be believed and of course one mess doesn’t stop another one so while trying to sort the first which pretty much spread over whole body – I do not believe they make a nappy that can cope with such an event this little chap chose that precise moment to unleash a wee of immense quantity too!

We all know too that babies are given to being sick – they know no moderation and will feed in a way to rival Roman orgies as in take way too much sick it up then go again. But that too can spread all over the place. The other thing babies do is choose their moments for these tsunami-like events. Usually just as you’ve got them and you ready to go out. Now I can wear a badge of grandmotherly honour in the form of a small stain but being covered in a variety of bodily fluids is a bit too much even for this very proud grandmother. So we change and the whole cycle begins again – such is life!

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Glass Candle Holders, £24.99, Ivyline

Blue Playsuit, £23.99, New Look

Woven Slider, £205, www.office.co.uk

AFFINITY HOT PICKS

Rose Gold & Diamond Earrings, £425, www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

Ice Lolly Biscuits, £25, www.biscuiteers.com

Seedlip Grove, £22, Amazon

Chunky Necklace, £29.50, Oliver Bonas

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Orange Knit Top, £55, Oliver Bonas

One Piece Swimsuit, £110, www.bikini-bible.com

Fedora Straw Hat, £12, George

Tissot Pearl Watch, £295, www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

Flower Headband, £18, River Island

Raffia Pearl Wedge Sandals, £95, www.dunelondon.com

Jute Tote Bag, £39.99, Belissh

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The Awesomeness of

Awe Its not a word we may use too much theses days but Awe is an important part of life.

The online dictionary defines it as “a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder”

There are all sorts of situations where we might feel awe and they may happen accidentally but increasingly actually searching out situations that leave is filled with awe are thought to be good for our mental health.

Very often those awe-inspiring moments happen by accident we see an amazing sunset or witness a heroic act. But what if we were to seek out moments of awe and wonder.

Nature Without doubt nature is full of things that inspire awe. We’ve probably all gasped in awe at a wonderful view from a mountain, a wild sea, a beautiful forest or the magic that may be hidden in the depths of the ocean. Perhaps we have marvelled at the serenity of trees that have stood for hundreds of years or the amazing beauty of a dragonfly or butterfly. The colours of exotic birds or the amazing songs they ‘sing’.

Storms are something else that can inspire awe. The power the fact that we have no control over them and although at times obviously they can wreak havoc they can also be things that inspire awe.

Awe can inspire us and remind us in some ways of our smallness – it’s a great way to put things into perspective. So many of our worries can pale into insignificance in the face of the awesomeness of nature. Nature feeds our soul in many different ways so making time to be in nature putting ourselves into positions where we can be inspired by the awesomeness of nature is something we can all do to support our mental health and well-being and give us a more helpful perspective on our lives.

Kindness One of the other things that can inspire awe is human kindness and heroism. The achievements of others can inspire us whether it is our children performing in a school play after months of practice

or watching a child dote on a small helpless animal.

But also we can be inspired by people who put themselves out there to support others whether it is training to run a marathon to raise money for cancer research or going out of your way to support friends and relatives or doing what you would to raise awareness about the environment. Humans can definitely inspire awe in other humans.

Overcoming the odds Seeing others overcome odds –overcoming cancer, surviving being stuck on a mountain, experiencing life changing injuries and somehow manging to not just survive but adapt and thrive can humble us and leave us filled with awe. We all have our heroes and they are the subject of hundreds of wonderful movies that we have probably all loved.

As humans we can delight in the heroism or overcoming of others. Being inspired by others again helps us to experience awe and inspiration.

Seek out awe Experiencing moments of awe can improve our mood and leave us feeling more satisfied with our life. There is also a thought that it can be good for our health it can help us be more critical and even reduce materialism. When faced with a magnificent sunset lots of ‘things’ feel less important.

But we also need to be careful to make sure we can be in awe of ourselves. We are pretty amazing humans. We have all overcome odds, we have all kept going through dark times, we have all been kind to others, acted selflessly, protected the more vulnerable done things to support the environment.

So, when seeking awe to inspire us don’t forget to hold up a mirror.

Making time to put yourself in positions where you can experience awe is good for us in all sorts of ways. So try to make time to seek out those aweinspiring moments, walks in the forest watching others triumph enjoying the achievements of those we love – it will do us good.

For more about living your life to the fullest check out my book Make it Magnificent available on Amazon.

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Glowing & Gorgeous

Of course a sun-kissed glow is best created sunbathing on a dreamy beach.

But failing that, acquainting yourself with the best fake tan out there is the easiest (and safest way) to keep that bronze look all year round

BPerfect 10 Second Tan, £19.95, www.bperfectcosmetics.com

Bali Body Self TanningMousse, £25.95, Look Fantastic

Skinny Tan 1 Hour Express Mousse, £24.99, Boots

Bondi Sands Aero Aerated Self-Tanning Foam, £19.99, Boots

Dove Visible Glow Body Lotion, £3.79, Sephora

TAN TRUTH Anti- Age Tanning Face Serum, £10, www.tantruth.co.uk St Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse, £34, Very

Rimmel Sunshimmer Water Resistant Wash Off Instant Tan, £6.99, Look Fantastic

TAN TRUTH Clear SelfTan Mousse, £19, www.tantruth.co.uk

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FASHION

Monsoon

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bikini babe

“From scalloped hems to feminine florals, gingham prints to colour block we’ve got the perfect bikinis to pack in your suitcase this summer”

Colour Block Bikini, £21, Matalan Contrast Bikini, £41, Next

Floral Bikini, £48, Next

Plunge Bikini, £40, Marks & Spencer Printed Bikini, £65, Monsoon

Yellow Tie Side Bikini, £24, F&F

Scallop Bikini, £75, Monsoon

Zebra Print Bikini, £24, F&F

Next

Ring Detail Bikini, £30, Very

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Making Waves “A summer wardrobe isn’t complete without a swimsuit or two. From fresh colour palettes to flattering shapes there’s a style for everyone”

Ruched Swimsuit, £40, Lipsy

Yellow Swimsuit, £20, F&F

Cut Out Swimsuit, £32, Matalan

Royal Blue Swimsuit, £159, Ralph Lauren

Swirl Print Swimsuit, £98, Reiss

Green Swimsuit, £39, Next

Reiss One Shoulder Swimsuit, £20, Pretty Little Thing

Floral Swimsuit, £23, Matalan

Paisley Swimsuit, £52.50, Boden

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High Waist Summer

“The high waisted bikini is not only chic and stylish but is the perfect choice to cover up a little more whilst still wearing a bikini” Gingham Bikini, £37.50, Marks & Spencer

Print Bikini, £85, Monsoon

Palm Print Bikini, £21, Matalan

High Waist Black Bikini, £40, Marks & Spencer

Recycled Bikini, £56, Pour Moi

Twist Detail Bikini, £44, Very

Animal Green Bikini, £20, F&F

Underwired Bikini, £40, Very

Peacocks

Blue Floral Bikini, £54, Pour Moi

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Bead Earrings, £19.50, Oliver Bonas

Embellished Earrings, £38, Boden

splash of colour “The perfect earrings to pair with your poolside look this summer”

, Drop Earrings, £416, Mignonne Gavigan Crystal Fringe Earrings, £221, Elizabeth Cole

NEXT Red Earrings, £209, Mignonne Gavigan

Tassel Earrings, £14, Accessorize Raffia Earrings, £22.80, Boden

Pink Fan Earrings, £10, Monsoon

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food & drink

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FOODIE NEWS

Fresh Seafood to your Door

Just in time for the beginning of grilling season, sustainable seafood experts Rockfish have relaunched their Summer BBQ Box (£29.95, www.therockfish.co.uk), encouraging cooks of all levels to give seafood a go on the grill this summer!

A celebration of British seafood, the Rockfish Summer BBQ Box has everything you need to grill up a delicious fishy feast for family and friends and even includes a booklet of expert grilling tips from seafood chef Mitch Tonks. The box includes 8 butterflied Cornish sardines, 6 super sustainable diver scallops and large succulent prawns along with a jar of Rockfish’s homemade garlic butter to melt and pour over your barbecued fish, so all that’s left to do is to whip up your favourite sides.

There will also be a bumper Premium Barbecue Box for bigger feasts, which will contain sea bass and squid, monkfish tails, prawns and scallops and more.

Coffee & Cocktails

Whether you enjoy a midmorning iced coffee, or an evening cocktail to cool you down, Judge’s DoubleWalled glassware is the perfect way to keep drinks chilled for longer so you can quench your thirst at your leisure.

Its Latte Glass Set (£17.60) to its Grande Latte glasses (£12) are perfect for delicious iced coffees to enjoy al desko or whilst soaking up the sun, whilst its High Ball Glass Set (£15.80) is perfect for a chilled G&T or long cocktail, or use its 200ml (£14.20) tumbler set for shorts.

The double walled design keeps iced drinks cool without condensation making them perfect for garden parties or gatherings, available from www. judge.co.uk

Underground Opulence

Escape the stifling heat this summer and relax in an elegant and stylish art deco bar steeped in history and enjoy a decadent cocktail in the comfort of cool air conditioning.

Disrepute is ‘the’ members bar to enjoy high-class, refreshing cocktails and is ranked within the top 50 bars worldwide. Inspired by the sixties underground scene it is unique and sophisticated in style, with opulent leather and velvet furnishings and a seductive atmosphere.

Each drink is created by world class bar tenders and is served in an elegant glass garnished with style and a touch of theatre, so it’s one for the discerning cocktail connoisseur!

Be sure to book in to secure the best seats in the house, www.disrepute.co.uk

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Upside Down Fish Pie “Summer suppers don’t get any better than this”

Method

Ingredients

1 kg potatoes 320 g sprouting broccoli 100 g tartare sauce Olive oil 400 g piece of salmon , skin off, pin-boned 320 g ripe mixed-colour cherry tomatoes 1 bunch of chives (20g) 165 g raw peeled king prawns ½ a lemon

Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/gas 6. Boil the kettle. Scrub the potatoes, chop into 3cm chunks, place in a large shallow casserole pan and cover with boiling kettle water. Bring back to the boil and cook for 15 minutes, or until tender, trimming and adding the broccoli for the last 4 minutes. Drain, put the broccoli aside, return the spuds to the pan and mash well with the tartare sauce and ½ a tablespoon of olive oil, then season to perfection. Put back on a medium heat and use the back of a spoon to spread the mash across the base and sides of the pan. Drizzle with oil, then transfer to the oven to bake for 20 minutes, or until golden.

Meanwhile, slice the salmon lengthways just under 1cm thick. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Finely chop the chives. Toss it all with the prawns, lemon juice and a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. When the mash is golden, arrange the blanched broccoli on top, then lay over the dressed salmon, prawns and tomatoes. Return to the oven for 10 minutes, or until the fish and prawns are cooked through.

Recipe from, www.jamieoliver.com

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Spring Chicken & Citrus Stew

“A brilliant transitional dish that takes you from one season to the other”

Method

Ingredients

1 large free-range chicken Olive oil 6 cloves of garlic 1 large onion 1 bulb of fennel 1 leek 1 handful of asparagus spears 1 handful of fresh peas 1 handful of broad beans ½ a bunch of fresh flat-leaf parsley ½ a bunch of fresh dill Few sprigs of fresh tarragon 600 ml organic chicken stock 1 large handful of green olives 1 handful of tinned cannellini beans 2 lemons 2 large free-range eggs 2 tablespoons natural yoghurt Extra virgin olive oil Parmesan cheese

Joint the chicken into legs, thighs, breasts and wings. Put a large casserole pan over a medium heat and add 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the chicken portions and place in the pan. Cook for 10 minutes, until browned on all sides, turning regularly, then remove to a plate.

Meanwhile, prep your veg. Peel and finely chop the garlic and onion. Trim and finely chop the fennel, trim and finely slice the leek and snap the woody ends off the asparagus. Pod the peas and broad beans, then pick the herb leaves and finely chop the stalks.

There should be a few tablespoons of fat left in the pan; if you have more, get rid of most of it. Add the garlic, onion, leek, fennel and herb stalks and cook until softened, stirring occasionally.

Place the chicken back in the pan, pour in the stock and season with black pepper. Cover with a lid, then cook over medium-low for around 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone. Bring the mixture back up to a boil, destone and stir in the olives, peas, broad beans and cannellini beans. When the vegetables are done, add most of the herb leaves, reserving some for garnish.

Remove the chicken from the stew and use 2 forks to pull the meat off the bones. Discard the bones, return the meat to the pan, then season to perfection and remove from the heat.

Beat the juice of 2 lemons and the eggs together well, then pour slowly into the stew – don’t let it boil or the egg mixture with scramble – it should just add a gorgeous shine.

Stir in the yoghurt before ladling the stew into bowls. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over each bowl, grate over a little Parmesan and serve sprinkled with the reserved herbs.

Recipe from, www.jamieoliver.com

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Black Forest Cheesecake

“Taking 1970’s flavours and bringing it up to modern-day” Ingredients

90g butter, softened 40g caster sugar 100g plain flour 1½ tbsp cocoa powder 200g double cream 280g full fat cream cheese 100g icing sugar Juice ½ lemon 1 jar of Opies Black Cherries with Kirsch, syrup reserved 3 sheets of gelatine 100g best quality dark chocolate, melted 100g best quality dark chocolate, peeled to create curls

Method

Pre-heat oven to 180°C /160°C fan/gas 4.

Rub together the butter, sugar, flour and cocoa powder in a bowl or pulse in a food processor until a dough forms. Press the mixture down into the base of the lined cake tin and smooth the surface over with the back of a spoon. Prick with a fork then bake in the oven for 20 minutes until golden. Remove and leave to cool completely in the tin. Beat the cream, cream cheese, icing sugar and lemon juice together in a clean bowl until thickened.

Drain the cherries over a bowl and reserve the syrup as well as half of the cherries. Mix the remaining cherries into the cream cheese, then add to the tin. Smooth the surface over and chill in the fridge.

Meanwhile, place the gelatine leaves in a small bowl of water to soften for around 10 minutes. Add the reserved kirsch syrup to a small saucepan and gently heat for 3-4 minutes.

Remove the gelatine sheets, squeezing out the excess water, then add to the syrup and heat through until completely dissolved, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool completely. Once cooled, pour the syrup over the top of your cheesecake and chill for at least 3 hours but ideally overnight until completely set.

When ready to serve, remove from the fridge and dot with the remaining cherries. Drizzle over the melted chocolate and sprinkle the chocolate peelings on top before serving.

Recipe from: www.opiesfoods.com

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Summertime with Bordeaux Wines “With longer, brighter and warmer days now here, it’s the perfect time to explore the fruity rosés and fresh sparkling Crémants of Bordeaux”

B de Bonhoste, Crémant de Bordeaux Rosé This wine evokes red. berries and fresh bread crust on the nose and is fresh, lively and well balanced with a pleasant fruity finish. Bright and bubbly, enjoy this as a relaxing drink at the end of the day. £17.00, Hourlier Wines

Château Tour de Mirambeau, Bordeaux Rosé, 2021 A blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this is a delicious strawberry scented rosé with great balance. The palate is fresh and succulent, with hints of chassis and strawberry with a long, clean finish. This refreshing rosé pairs well with chicken Caesar salad. £13.80, Tanners Wine Merchants

Celene Cuvée Royale Crémant de Bordeaux is a must-have bubbly. A blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, this Rosé Crémant has a persistent and fine bubble and is full of blackcurrant notes and aromas of candied fruit. Pair with some light nibbles or seafood canapés. £16.00, Waddesdon Wine

Clarendelle, Bordeaux Rosé, 2022 A top-end rosé. Not only are the tantalising berry and citrus flavours of this pink just perfect, but it’s also a wine of serious pedigree. The wine is deliciously crisp. Floral, red berries and stone fruit nose, refreshing and full flavoured, packed with red berries and a grapefruit finish. £17.99, Laithwaites

Premius Bordeaux Rosé, 2021 Premius rosé has an elegant raspberry colour, followed by fresh notes of redcurrant and strawberry.

The impression on the palate is fruity and crisp, with red fruit flavours leading into a lovely long, fresh finish.

The perfect accompaniment to those summer salads and imminent barbecues. £12.95, Slurp.co.uk

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Whispering Angel at The Rooftop The Rooftop – the seventh-floor bar and restaurant at The Trafalgar St. James hotel have launched Whispering Angel @ The Rooftop. The collaboration sees The Rooftop’s alfresco terrace transformed into a floral summer space with a special wine menu from Château d’Esclans, home of Whispering Angel. A perfect destination for long summer lunches, brunches, evening meals and sunset drinks with unbeatable skyline views across Trafalgar Square and central London.

The drinks menu will showcase a range of the best Provence rosé wines from Château d’Esclans, including the eponymous Whispering Angel, and the high energy Rock Angel.

For cocktail lovers there will also be rosé based cocktails available including the Taste of Provence; inspired by the Provence region of France delicate homemade lavender syrup blends beautifully with the fresh notes of Whispering Angel Rosé, finished with a touch of soda.

An ideal accompaniment to rosé sipping, The Rooftop’s European-inspired summer food menu features small and, large plates, sharing platters and desserts. Dishes range from light summery seafood dishes and salads through to classic burgers and original vegan dishes including: Whispering Angel @ The Rooftop will also be serving brunch every weekend. The new brunch menu features luxury takes on hearty brunch classics alongside some lighter options. Guests can indulge in dishes that include:

The Rooftop Muffin - Crab and Crayfish Brioche.

Crispy Cauliflower & Charred Asparagus - Cured Salmon and Seaweed Salad - Grilled Minute Steak.

BOOK IT

The Whispering Angel @ The Rooftop Brunch has small plates available from £14 which can be enjoyed with a glass of Whispering Angel from £15.

Brunch bookings are available between 11am – 2.45pm.

For more information and bookings visit: www.trafalgarstjames.com/the-rooftop

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interiors

Dobbies

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Coastal Calm

Create a calming coastal inspired space that will transport you to carefree beach days, with colours, patterns and textures you associate with being by the seaside.

This stunning wallpaper mural (£29 a roll, www.bobbibeck.com) would make a simply stunning backdrop to all sorts of styles of space.

The crisp, detailed line work is used to build the illustrated octopi. The design is kept simple in black and white to accentuate the fine details of the drawing style. 'Kraken' would make a simply stunning backdrop to all sorts of styles of space.

Beach Wave Picture, £9.95, Desenio

These circular coral pictures will bring home beach holidays in Cornwall and dreams of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and even the stunning Maldives.

A modern twist on vintage Spode design tea plates, these seaside prints (£140, www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk) make a perfect pairing with both contemporary and rustic interiors. The deep frame features a twisted fluted design which brings a contemporary air to the classic botanical drawing of flora.

Nautical Dinner Plates, £15, Marks & Spencer

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Driftwood Lamp, £250, Ideal Lux

Wrap yourself in this cosy beach house blanket/throw (£46, www.thecoastallifestylecompany.co.uk) Beautiful beachy white and blue tones finished with a lovely boho fringe.

Great for cold nights in on the sofa or keeping toasty in the late summer evenings outdoors.

Large Ammonite Sculpture, £39, Marquis & Dawe

Seashells Wool Throw, £117, J.J.Textiles

Fish, shells, crabs and seagulls play happily across the cushion collection (£34.99 each) from Perkins & Morley. There are 4 designs available that are printed on cotton linen and will add a coastal feel to any room.

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Take a Moment Use wicker and seagrass furniture and accessories to create the perfect spot to relax, unwind and immerse yourself in a good book.

Natural Wicker Lampshade, £110, Nedgis Tray, £9, George

Set of 4 Placemats, £25, Marks & Spencer

Carafe and Glass Set, £150, OKA Mirror, £125, Sweetpea & Willow

Weave Chair, £79.99, Homesense

Rattan Lantern, £90, OKA

Wicker Side Table, £149.99, Wayfair

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Annie The World’s Favourite Family Musical

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Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts and is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of the orphanage.

Meanwhile, spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her true family but with the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations and finds a new home and family in billionaire, Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy.

With its Tony® Award-winning book and score, including the unforgettable songs It’s The Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow, you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll love it!

Annie comes to Milton Keynes Theatre from Monday 7 Saturday 12 August.

Tickets are available from www.atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes

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Fry’s Footie Corner

I am writing these notes at the start of July and thankfully it is only a few weeks away from the start of the new season. Although the transfer window has only just technically opened, deals have been done throughout the month of June and speculation was rife at the highest level about a host of Premier League stars including Declan Rice.

Declan and West Ham United enjoyed a fine end to the season with success in Europe and it was probably an ideal time for him to leave his boyhood club – on a high. Clubs have been fighting for his services and you can certainly see why – he is a precocious English talent and he will only get better.

Arsenal have been busy in the transfer market with the arrival of Kai Havertz and whilst there were a few raised eyebrows, I can certainly see where he will fit in because he is a typical Arsenal player, stylish on the ball, times his runs into the box cleverly and can operate in a number of different positions.

Liverpool have also been fairly busy with the arrival of World Cup winner Alexis McCallister from Brighton and Hove Albion. It was a pretty good deal too, less than £40m for a player of his ability and he will help eradicate a problem area for Jurgen Klopp’s men.

Closer to me, we have been busy in the transfer market at Peterborough United with three new arrivals at the time of writing. My job has been to try and move some of our players on who are on the transfer list and whilst we have succeeded in some of those, it is hard because clubs continue to struggle financially outside of the top two divisions.

Agents continue to demand the earth and have unrealistic expectations of what their players are worth, but that is football, you have to roll with the punches. I still love the challenge of getting the best deal for my football club. My chairman does not allow players to leave on the cheap, it is about negotiation. Some agents are good agents and some are bad and don’t have the best interests of their player at heart, but you are always going to have to fight for what is right.

I have been in the game a long time, but I still love the buzz, I still love what I do. I still love going to watch games at whatever level and I can’t see that ever changing while I am on this earth!

Barry

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Poolside Posing Whether you’re swapping St Ives for Saint-Tropez we’ll get you back in the water with some of our favourite swim-shorts that’ll have you posing poolside perfectly.

Hawaiian Swim Shorts, £40, Superdry

Leaf Print Swim Shorts, £18, Next

Leaf Print Swim Shorts, £36, FatFace

Palm Print Swim Shorts, £47, Quicksilver Threadbare

Yellow Fruit Shorts, £19.99, TK Maxx

Shark Swim Shorts, £18, Next

Stripe Swim Shorts, £109, Ralph Lauren

Palm Tree Swim Shorts, £45, FatFace

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TRAVEL

Egypt

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Ancient Wonders and Modern Luxury at Four Seasons Egypt A fixture on any serious traveller’s itinerary for centuries thanks to its abundant architectural marvels and important historic sites, Egypt is now a favoured destination for those seeking deep cultural immersion, craving the thrill of adventure, treasure hunting in the markets, thirsting for pan-Arab dining and delighting in Insta-worthy views at every turn.

This summer, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano and Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh invites travellers to discover – and rediscover – it all.

Well-established in Egypt for more than two decades, Four Seasons can customize the perfect holiday for families, couples and friends in one, two or more Egyptian destinations, completely tailored to individual needs and wants. With insider access, trusted local guides and seamless travel arrangements – not to mention the comfort of luxurious accommodations at the end of each adventurefilled day - all that’s left to do is enjoy every moment.

Top of the list for any visitor to Egypt is the highly anticipated opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Cairo. None other than Ramses II (in the form of an 11metre statue carved 32 centuries ago) welcomes visitors to the largest archaeological museum in the world.

From there, the opportunities are endless. Here is a taste of the possibilities and ways to get started on planning an Egyptian adventure this summer.

Cairo: An Ever-Changing City of Secrets “The Pyramids of Giza are a must of course, and particularly for those who have seen them before, we offer the opportunity to experience their majesty in a new light with a very special private dinner under the stars amid one of the Seven Wonders of the World,” says Yves Giacometti,

Regional Vice President and General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza. “And to see something that much fewer have seen until now, we suggest the Step Pyramid at Djoser, recently reopened after a 14 yearrestoration and the centre of a tomb complex that is older even than the Pyramids of Giza, by several hundred years.”

To journey even deeper into history, a trip to Luxor and the paradise city of Arwan is a day not soon forgotten. Four Seasons offers a door-to-door experience, including limo transfers and a Four Seasons escort through the airport.

Then, after a short flight, Four Seasons guests are met with a carefully chosen guide who will be at their side for the entire day before returning to Cairo that evening or the next day. Often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, treasures are continuing to be discovered.

Those preferring to stay in the city will be spoiled for choice, from the city’s many restored palaces to its performing arts centres, contemporary art galleries (tip: check out the extensive art collection at Four Seasons as an introduction to the city’s burgeoning arts scene), numerous museums and the Cairo Opera House, home to international and local musical performances with first class productions of ballet, opera and symphonic works.

No visit to the city is complete without a trip the Moez area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Khan El Khalili, the 1,000-year-old markets, in search of everything from artisan pieces to funky souvenirs. Then as the sun sets, a leisurely cruise on calm waters of the Nile in a traditional felucca takes you past the evening-lit Cairo Opera House, sparkling Cairo Tower, the celebrated Cairo Yacht Club and several palaces as you sip on Bedouin-style mint tea.

To begin planning exploration of the city and its surroundings, book a getaway by the Nile at the riverside Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza.

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Alexandria: The Pearl of the Mediterranean Relatively youthful in comparison to Cairo, Alexandria was founded by, and named for, Alexander the Great in 331 BC. The arrival of the Macedonians in Egypt was just another moment in a long history of cross-cultural influences that can be seen all over the city.

For example, take Pompey’s Pillar, erected to honour the Roman Emperor Diocletian around 300 AD. “Climbing it is forbidden of course, but it’s fun to think about those who did in the past, and the stories of its construction and its role in many periods of history are fascinating,” says Chief Concierge Shaimaa Youssry, Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano.

A visit to the Roman Amphitheatre takes one through the remains of the ancient city of Alexandria during the Roman Period. Then, venture on a tour of where the legendary Pharos Lighthouse once stood - The Citadel Qaitbay. The 15th-century landmark is now a naval museum with lookout towers and a unique collection of weapons.

A must-see landmark is the Bibliotheca Alexandrina; one of the major cultural centres in the world with space for eight million books and a massive main reading room.

Another of the many attractions in Alexandria is the Royal Jewelry Museum, set within an opulent palace built about a century ago. Here, Four Seasons can arrange an expert guide through its magnificent rooms and priceless treasures on display including gold objects and jewellery once worn by the queens and princesses of Egypt’s royal family. For something truly special, Chef Concierge Shaimaa Youssry hints at the possibilities afforded by a private evening tour of the palace, followed by dinner and live music in the Royal Gardens.

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Those who want to experience modern day Alexandria at its best will enjoy an evening at the beautiful Alexandria Opera House.

To begin planning the perfect seaside vacation, book a Mediterranean getaway at the beachfront Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano.

Sharm El Sheikh: An Oasis for Adventurers For those who shun darkened museums, busy markets and crowded tourist sites, Egypt’s Peninsula is a vast wilderness for adventurers on land and underwater. The Red Sea waters surrounding the southern tip of the peninsula are teeming with marine life and intriguing shipwrecks, making it popular with divers and snorkelers of all levels. First stop: the new dive centre at Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh, where training and first glimpses of colourful aquatic life can be seen in the Resort’s private reef.

From there, escorted trips and yacht charters to the area’s 76 recognised dive sites await. “Try night diving too,” says Leo Baum, the Resort’s General Manager. “On a moonlit night you can see as far as 10 metres or 32 feet deep and witnessing the glittering bioluminescence of tiny particles of glowing plankton is something you’ll never forget.

Beyond diving and the dramatic reefs, guests will enjoy water activities on a sea kayak and stand-up paddle boarding.”

Recently expanded to double its original size, Four Seasons now offers numerous pools, 12 diverse culinary experiences, a new spa fitness centre with floor-to-ceiling windows, tennis and squash courts – but for those who want to expand their horizons, there’s as much to do in the desert as at the beach. Quad biking the dunes, a sunset camel safari, or a Bedouin-style dinner under the stars are all easily arranged, and the region’s historic sites are worth a look too.

For a look at modern Sharm El Sheikh, a visit to the Heavenly Cathedral with its elaborately painted ceiling, stained galls windows and Biblical illustrations will have cameras snapping, as will the glorious Al Sahaba Mosque with its striking minarets – both were built in the 21st century, with the latter being close to the Old Market for souvenirs, spices and local handicrafts.

To begin planning the adventure – or simply a few days of sun-soaked relaxation – book a Red Sea getaway at Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh.

Trip Customization in the Palm of One’s Hand

Take advantage of the Four Seasons App, and chat in real-time with Four Seasons team members in 100+ languages for more advice and ideas, and throughout your stay in Egypt.

For more information and reservations, please visit www.fourseasons.com.

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Relax, Recharge and Refresh with a

Unique Padstow Getaway Unwind this summer with the Heat, Sleep, Retreat Staycation at Rick Stein’s Shepherd’s Huts near Padstow. In collaboration with Saunas By The Sea, enjoy a 50-minute wood-fired sauna experience overlooking Cornwall’s beautiful Harlyn Bay, alongside a cosy two-night stay in a luxurious and unique Shepherd Hut, with a complimentary breakfast hamper, pizzas and Cornish lagers for two.

Starting from £446 for a two-night weekend stay for two guests, soak up the spectacular north Cornish coast in one of the UK’s most desired holiday destinations. With panoramic views across the beach, relax in the sauna’s dry heat for a full body recharge, followed by a revitalising dip in the sea, promoting good circulation, balance and tranquillity.

Return to a Shepherd’s Hut in St Merryn – a short fiveminute drive from Harlyn Bay – sheltered by woodlands and located on private grounds of Rick Stein’s quintessentially Cornish Pub, The Cornish Arms.

Beautifully designed by Jill, Kate and Ed Stein, the huts ooze Cornish charm and come complete with a kitchenette, double bed, ensuite shower room with Jill’s Porthdune skincare, underfloor heating and boutique fixtures. There’s also a private patio to sip your morning coffee or for drinks under the stars.

A generous breakfast spread is available in your hut to be enjoyed each morning, plus guests will receive two freshly made pizzas from the pub’s on-site pizza oven as well as four bottles of Cornish Korev lager during the stay.

The Heat, Sleep, Retreat Staycation at the Shepherd’s Huts starts at £446 based on a two-night stay for two people on weekends, available for Friday – Sunday and Saturday – Monday bookings.

To book, visit www.rickstein.com/heat-sleep-retreatstaycation/.

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Soak up the Sun in the Mountains Luxury villa and chalet specialists Purple Summer and Purple Ski are delighted to unveil the newest properties to join their French summer roster, Méribel’s Chalet Iona and Savoie’s Château de Candie.

Offering luxurious alpine accommodation for groups of up to 15 and 60 respectively, Chalet Iona and Château de Candie cater to every type of holiday, from romantic weekends away and family adventures to wedding celebrations and honeymoons. The duo compliment one another perfectly, with Château de Candie perfectly positioned on the foothills of the alps, proving the ideal stop for a long weekend or breaking up the journey into the mountains.

As with all Purple Summer and Purple Ski holidays, each property has been carefully hand-picked and offers firstclass service and facilities, family essentials and a distinctive personality.

Purple Ski’s Chalet Iona, Méribel Valley (Sleeps up to 15) Set in its own secluded orchards, Chalet Iona offers unparalleled views across 13 pretty villages and settlements – stretching towards the Vanoise National Park and the magnificent Grand Bec mountain. Perfect for large groups, Iona has an annexe property for use; accommodating up to 15 guests in total.

Completely rebuilt in 2017, there are two charming yet stylish master bedrooms and four twin or double guest

rooms. The entrance opens into a large, high-ceilinged living dining area featuring a dramatic, suspended fireplace and a huge, hand-made oak dining table close to the large east-facing panoramic windows. A second spacious living room on the lower level with board games, large screen TV and an extensive selection of vinyl records are on offer for guests to enjoy along with the sauna and outdoor hot tub.

The chalet is surrounded by idyllic gardens, where deer graze in nearby meadows as guests soak in the private hot tub, and three barbecue areas and sun decks provide space for unhurried breakfasts in the morning sun. Children will love the swings and treehouse, where they can play surrounded by apple, pear, plum and cherry trees and old carts from the last century.

For those wishing to venture outside of their mountaintop sanctuary, Méribel offers an abundance of activities to enjoy throughout the summer. From mountain-biking on e-bikes to horseback riding, hiking and yoga, the Purple Summer team can arrange all activities as well as any transfers, restaurant bookings and in-chalet treatments guests desire.

On the chalet’s doorstep, the quaint hamlet of Le Villard is many centuries old, with its chapel dating to 1645. It is rich with farming history and one of the village’s four fresh water sources is located immediately in front of the chalet, while the town’s ancient bread-oven, stoked-up once a month in olden times, is also right next to the chalet A seven-night stay at Chalet Iona, Méribel during the Summer season starts from €20,995 on a catered basis.

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Purple Summer’s Chateau de Candie, Savoie (Sleeps up to 60) Perched on the hillside overlooking the capital of Savoie and yet a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Château de Candie’s ivy-cloaked façade and 14th-century fortifications are enchanting. Surrounded by evergreen forest, beautiful gardens, fountains, and rows of grape vines, it commands magnificent views of the Chartreuse Mountain range. Conveniently positioned close to many of the major alpine resorts and the largest natural lake in France, the castle is ideal for a short stop en-route to the Alps (or further south into Italy or onto the French Riviera), or a longer stay exploring the local area.

The historic château offers a choice of 25 lovely, individually decorated rooms and suites bookable by room or on an exclusive-hire basis, all filled with antiques and period features. For a romantic getaway or just a little extra treat, the château’s impossibly quaint tower contains a truly luxurious suite spread across three floors.

Dining at the hotel’s own restaurant proves to be an unforgettable experience, with an ever-changing menu of exceptional quality dishes created using locally sourced ingredients. Guests can even sample the Viognier wine made from grapes picked from the château’s own vineyard, at a fascinating wine tasting workshop.

Tucked away in the sun-soaked gardens amidst statues and flowers, the glistening swimming pool is the perfect place to cool off after a long day of hiking, cycling or sightseeing. For the ultimate evening relaxation, indulge in a restorative massage or simply curl up in the cosy bar area with a digestif.

For those looking to elope and tie the knot in true fairy-tale style, Château de Candie provides an extraordinary wedding venue option. Whether couples are dreaming of an intimate ceremony in the vineyards or a big white wedding for over 120 guests, Purple Summer offers a variety of spoiling packages including a wedding planning service and is on hand to help plan the affair from beginning to happily ever after!

Nightly rates at Château de Candie start from €200 per room on a Bed and Breakfast basis. The property is available on an exclusive hire basis from €15,000.

For more information and to book, please visit www.purplesummer.com.

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STARS Manish Kumar Arora (K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant) reveals what’s in store for you this month

Cancer (21 June – 22 July) You can make great progress professionally. There will be a good opportunity to come into contact with compatible persons in the course of your official duties/ travels. You will have a friendly nature and feel very comfortable enjoying the group dynamics of different social scenes. The boss and someone special will be admiring your achievements and will help you acclimate to your newly elevated status.

You will need to be more responsible in your attitude towards family relationships.

Favourable Dates: July 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20 Favourable ColoUrs: White & Purple

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Leo (23 July – 22 August) You will feel very romantic and will take your work as an art and reach out for new ideas. Contacts and communication will bring more opportunities and this adds to the great potential for expansion. Actions of courage and your sheer genius will bring you money and spirituality in equal measure. Your friends and family will just make your personal life so much richer and more fulfilling.

Favourable Dates: July 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23 Favourable Colours: Red & Green

Virgo (23 August – 22 September) Your outlook will be confident and you will feel positive.

This is a good time for self-expression and the use of your creative abilities in various fields. You will be spending more time and attention to friends and family than normal during the month although you will want to focus on home issues and security instead. There is enough of you to go around. You will enjoy respect and honour from learned people.

Favourable Dates: July 4, 7, 13, 16, 22, 25 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Green Libra (23 September – 22 October) You will radiate great energy which will definitely attract lots of supportive people in your life. You will be heroic in strife. You will be able to balance professional and domestic commitments intelligently and give your best to both these vital aspects of life. Your cherished desires will be fulfilled and bring you prosperity fame and good income. Your financial luck will be excellent provided you avoid dubious speculative activities.

Favourable Dates: July 1, 8, 10, 17, 19, 26 Favourable Colours: White & Red

Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) This is a good time to start new ventures. This phase indicates new friendships and relationships and gain through them. Previous work, as well as newly starting works will bring good and desired results and your cherished desires will be fulfilled. Stars are very complimentary for you to enjoy the conjugal bliss and married life. The spiritual world can open its gates before you, but it requires some preparation to make use of the opportunities.

Favourable Dates: July 1, 5, 10, 14, 19, 23 Favourable Colours: White & Green Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) The most unexpected changes could be expected in your work area and in professional activities which are outstanding for you. You can be more affectionate in the month if in a relationship and you enjoy the time you spend together being romantic, seeing the sparks again, or making the love a priority. If single, you can have an easier time meeting someone new. All you have to do is be sociable and let yourself be seen.

Favourable Dates: July 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23 Favourable Colours: Red & Grey Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) This is an excellent time for you work-wise, and you can create any sort of work opportunity that you want with a little elbow grease. You can tackle money issues, settling financial problems, completing financial agreements or arrangements. This month gives you some extra pleasant energy, and you can focus on having the kind of work life

that you want. You can be very successful in expressing your higher principles, whether it is work related or community oriented.

Favourable Dates: July 2, 3, 11, 12, 20, 21 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) You can have new work opportunities, improve your work environment, get along better with co-workers, streamline your daily life to become more productive and efficient, or work on improving your lifestyle to live healthier. It's also a good time to work on having healthy outlets for stress so you don't get so stressed out in the future. This is a favourable time for love and romance. You will develop new friendship which will be very rewarding and helpful.

Favourable Dates: July 1, 9, 10, 18, 19, 27 Favourable Colours: Blue & Red

Pisces (19 February – 20 March) You want to bring more joy into your life, through spending more time with the people you love. If in a relationship, you can make things fun again, and focus on reconnecting and reigniting the flame. If single, you have great energy to meet someone new and exciting, and you're ready for whatever comes your way. You can experience a positive increase in the level of respect that you enjoy.

Favourable Dates: July 2, 6, 11, 15, 20, 26 Favourable Colours: Purple & Grey Aries (21 March – 19 April) This is a highly productive month that will leave you feeling satisfied with what you have achieved There is certain amount of wish fulfilment which generally means gains in dealings or promotions in the hierarchy of the organization you work for. Money will definitely be coming your way and will greatly influence your personal beliefs, dreams and philosophies. You will enjoy the life with full optimism and vivacity.

Favourable Dates: July 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23 Favourable Colours: Blue & Grey Taurus (20 April – 20 May) You will come up with new ideas for dealing with your challenges. Dealings and transactions will work out smoothly and effortlessly for you, as you score one over your competitors. The people around you will realize your true worth and this will be gladdening to you and will be a strong motivating factor for you to keep giving your best consistently. Your loved ones will rely on you for providing support to them and comforting them.

Favourable Dates: July 2, 7, 11, 16, 20, 25 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow

Gemini (21 May – 20 June) The period will begin with a phase of volatility and pressure in career. New project and risks should be avoided. You need to curb new investments and commitment. There are chances of gain but swings in work environment which will not be entirely comfortable. You are advised to be very calm and balanced in your approach towards different situations in life. Your self-discipline, self-monitoring and control over your daily routine will be beneficial to you.

Favourable Dates: July 2, 3, 11, 12, 20, 21 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue

manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

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Weekend Starts Here....

Bad Summer People by Emma Rosenblum You are cordially invited to summer on New York State's idyllic Fire Island. Thirty miles of golden sand - No traffic. No tourists. No trash.

The city elite gather here every year, trailing kids, their nannies, wine and seafood imported from Manhattan: hard workers need their playtime.

Take the Parkers and the Weinsteins. Lauren and Jen hold sway on the beach and the tennis court. Their husbands are childhood friends bearing grudges as deep as they are secret.

Their lone single friend, Rachel Woolf, is looking to meet her match, whether he's the new tennis pro - or someone else's husband. She's not picky.

And while this season starts out quietly as any other, it soon changes when beneath the boardwalk, a body is found.

No Hard Feelings On the brink of losing her childhood home, Maddie discovers an intriguing job listing: wealthy helicopter parents looking for someone to 'date' their introverted 19-year-old son, Percy, before he leaves for college. To her surprise, Maddie soon discovers the awkward Percy is no sure thing.

Release Date: 30th June

Greatest Days Greatest Days follows five best friends who have the night of their lives seeing their favourite boy band in concert.

Twenty-five years later their lives have changed in many different ways as they reunite for one more epic show by their beloved band, to relight their friendship and discover that maybe their greatest days are ahead of them.

Release Date: 15th June

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PRICELESS

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