Affinity Luxury Lifestyle Magazine November 2024

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PRICELESS AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

www.affinitymag.co.uk ISSUE 169

GIFT GUIDES GALORE

WWW.AFFINITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

- The Lady Loves - Mens Room - Foodie Lovers - Stocking Fillers under £30 - Little One's

TIME TO TRAVEL

We're Here to Inspire

Festive Food

And not a turkey in sight

BEAUTY ADVENTS What one will you choose?

ISSUE 169

Enjoy The Magic Everything you need for a sparkling season

Decorations to Dazzle

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Editor’s

LETTER With approximately seven weeks to go until the big day, we feel it’s quite acceptable to mention that word – Christmas and fill this issue with all that glitters and more.

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I especially love this time of year, it’s lovely to reflect on Christmas past and the traditions you had as a child that you have now brought into adulthood and your own family. I for one get terribly nostalgic with my childhood memories - I swear to this day I heard Santa’s bells on Christmas Eve. The countdown’s well and truly on to when you open day 1 of your advent calendar, gone are the days of just a picture or a bit of chocolate, now calendars are full of beauty products, alcohol and food – You literally are spoilt for choice, turn to page 10 for a roundup of our favourite beauty advents - what one will you choose?

Padded Bra, £48, Knickers, £22, UK. Triumph.com

Feather Pyjamas, £90, www.identitylingerie.com

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I think there’s something just as magical about giving a gift as there is receiving one. The look on the person’s face as they unwrap it is a joy to watch, but I hear you ask “I don’t know what to buy? “Look no further than our Christmas Gift Guide, (page 25) this year it’s back bigger and better than before and has gifts everyone will love.

How do you decorate your tree? Do you keep it traditional and luxe or go all out novelty, whatever you choose we’ve got looks that’ll inspire you to create that WOW factor this Christmastime (page 44.

Diamond Initial Necklace, £75, www.yumiyujewelry.co

Remember, it’s the season of goodwill, a little kindness goes a long way!

Until Next Month

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Jane x

Samantha Siu Bohemia Earrings, £379, www.samanthasiu.com

3 Wine Glasses, £55 (set of 2), Black by Design

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Contents

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Affinity

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november 2024

12 hot picks 17 autumn fashion edit 19 black is black 21 lady in red 28 festive foodie 32 stocking fillers 39 foodie news 43 merlot wines 50 midnight baubles 54 white christmas 58 lord of the snow 62 delano opens in dubai 68 now! that’s what i call a musical 70 your stars 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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Affinity affinitymag.co.uk Luxury Lifestyle Living On The Cover River Island affinitymagz

facebook.com/AffinityMag @affinitymagz Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 07507 602401 Advertising: jane@affinitymag.co.uk Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita

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Life is Short: Stop Putting Up with Things That Don’t Serve You Life is short. It’s a phrase that echoes through our collective consciousness, but often, we fail to fully internalise its meaning until something significant happens—like the loss of a loved one, a life-altering event, or a personal realisation.

The truth is, time is limited, and how we spend it matters.

Yet, many of us persist in situations, relationships, or habits that drain our energy, hold us back, or make us unhappy. We put up with things that don’t serve us, sometimes out of habit, fear, or a misguided sense of obligation. But in doing so, we sacrifice our own well-being and fulfilment. The reality is that we owe it to ourselves to stop tolerating the things that no longer serve us, and instead, live our lives with intention, passion, and purpose.

The Illusion of Endless Time When we’re young, it feels like we have all the time in the world. We tell ourselves there’s no rush—that we can change things later, pursue our dreams when the time is right, or let go of toxic situations when we’re “ready.” But this is a dangerous illusion. Time doesn’t stop for anyone, and the future isn’t guaranteed. We may find ourselves looking back one day, realizing we spent far too long enduring things we never should have tolerated in the first place.

There is no “right” time to make a change; there is only now.

By continuously putting off the decisions and actions that could bring us closer to a more fulfilling life, we surrender our agency to a future that might never come. The belief that we have an endless supply of tomorrows is comforting, but it is also a trap. Life is short, and every moment we waste is one we’ll never get back.

The Cost of Tolerating the Unacceptable When we put up with things that don’t serve us, there is always a cost—emotionally, physically, or mentally. Whether it’s staying in an unfulfilling relationship, enduring a job that drains us, or holding onto unhealthy habits, the toll on our overall well-being can be significant. Over time, these things accumulate and can lead to burnout, stress, anxiety, and even depression. The longer we tolerate them, the deeper they root themselves into our lives, making it harder to break free.

The cost of enduring things that don’t serve us can be insidious. It chips away at our vitality, creativity, and sense of self. Eventually, we may wake up one day feeling as though we’ve wasted years on things that never truly mattered to us.

Why We Tolerate So why do we continue to put up with things that don’t serve us? The answer often lies in fear and conditioning. Many of us are raised to believe that endurance is a virtue—that we should be patient, that we shouldn’t rock the boat, and that discomfort is just part of life. This conditioning can lead us to believe that it’s selfish to prioritize our own happiness, or that we should always put others’ needs before our own.

Fear is another powerful force. Fear of the unknown, fear of

failure, fear of rejection, fear of being judged—these anxieties can keep us rooted in situations that no longer serve us. We convince ourselves that it’s safer to stay in the comfort of the familiar, even if that comfort is tinged with dissatisfaction and frustration.

But what we often fail to realize is that fear is temporary, while regret can last a lifetime. The discomfort of change or confrontation is fleeting compared to the long-term consequences of remaining stuck in situations that drain us.

The Power of Letting Go Letting go of the things that no longer serve us is one of the most empowering decisions we can make. It allows us to reclaim our time, energy, and emotional bandwidth, freeing us to focus on the things that truly matter. When we stop putting up with what drains us, we create space for what nourishes us.

Imagine the possibilities that open up when you stop tolerating mediocrity in your life. When you let go of a toxic relationship, you make room for healthier connections.

When you leave a soul-sucking job, you open yourself to opportunities that align with your passions and talents.

When you release unhealthy habits, you reclaim your physical and mental well-being.

Letting go doesn’t mean giving up or failing—it means recognizing when something has run its course and no longer aligns with who you are or who you want to become.

It’s about choosing yourself, your growth, and your happiness over comfort, fear, or obligation.

Taking Responsibility for Our Happiness It’s easy to blame external factors for our unhappiness—to point to the toxic boss, the unsupportive partner, or the overwhelming responsibilities. But ultimately, we are responsible for the choices we make and the things we tolerate. No one else can decide for us what we are willing to endure or when it’s time to walk away.

Taking responsibility for our happiness means recognizing that we have the power to change our circumstances. It means setting boundaries, making difficult decisions, and, sometimes, walking away from things that no longer serve us, even if it’s painful in the short term.

This doesn’t mean that every situation requires drastic action. Sometimes, change comes from within—by shifting our mindset, practicing gratitude, or learning new ways to cope with stress. But more often than not, the key to living a more fulfilling life is letting go of what no longer aligns with our values, desires, or well-being.

Life is short. Embrace life with intention. Stop putting up with things that hold you back.

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

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The Best Beauty Advents 2024 It’s never too early to start the Christmas countdown, and what better way to begin than with a Beauty Advent Calendar, what one will you choose?

Elemis Advent Calendar, £199, www.uk.elemis.com

Liberty Advent Calendar, £260, www.libertylondon.com

Jo Malone Advent Calendar, £360, www.jomalone.co.uk

Ormonde Jayne Advent Calendar, £395, Selfridges

DIOR Advent Calendar, £570, Harrods

Clarins Advent Calendar, £155, www.clarins.co.uk

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Rituals The Premium Advent Calendar, £172, www.rituals.com

Bobbi Brown Advent Calendar, £160, www.bobbibrown.co.uk

Molton Brown Advent Calendar, £225, www.moltonbrown.co.uk Rituals Classic Advent Calendar, £91.90, www.rituals.com

Fortnum & Mason Advent Calendar, £265, www.fortnumandmason.com

Selfridges Advent Calendar, £250, Selfridges

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Teddy Coat, £110, FatFace

Stripe Vase, £30, John Lewis

Sycamore Ring, £170, lucyqdesigns.co.uk

Coeur De Lion Watch, £297, coeur-de-lion.org

AFFINITY Faux Fur Throw, £24, Primark

HOT PICKS This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Woodwick Tomato Leaf & Basil Candle, £34.99, woodwick.yankeecandle.co.uk

Gemstone Drop Earrings, £25, Monsoon

Hot Water Bottle, £14, Next

Boucle Jacket, £60, Very

Cocktail Shaker, £35, The Roost

Shimmer Pave Clover Bracelet, £79, www.abbottlyon.com

Feather Bag, £32, River Island

Gloves, £12.99, TK Maxx

Kitten Heel Boots, £69, Marks & Spencer

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Fragrance Layering: Elevate Your Daily Routine Liza Linvill, is not just a skincare enthusiast, but also deeply passionate about the captivating world of fragrances, we caught up with her to tell us about fragrance layering and how to achieve it in your daily routine.

The art of layering fragrances is a sophisticated way to elevate your daily routine, creating a personalized scent that lasts from morning till night. By carefully combining different fragrances, you can develop a unique signature scent that not only expresses your personality but also has the staying power to keep you smelling great all day. In this guide, we’ll explore how to master the technique of scent layering for a long-lasting fragrance experience.

Understanding the Basics of Fragrance Layering Fragrance layering involves applying multiple scented products to build a more complex and enduring scent. The key to successful layering lies in understanding the different notes that make up a fragrance. Perfumes are typically composed of top, middle, and base notes, each contributing to the scent's overall character and longevity. Top notes are the first to be noticed but also the first to fade, while middle notes from the heart of the fragrance, and base notes linger the longest.

Start with a Scented Body Wash or Shower Gel The foundation of any layered fragrance routine begins in the shower. Using a scented body wash or shower gel helps to create the first layer of fragrance. Choose a scent that aligns with the perfume you plan to use later, focusing on complementary notes. For example, if your main fragrance has notes of vanilla, a vanilla-scented body wash would be an excellent choice. This initial layer will subtly infuse your skin with fragrance, setting the stage for the next steps.

Apply a Matching or Complementary Body Lotion After your shower, while your skin is still slightly damp, apply a scented body lotion or cream. This step not only moisturizes your skin, which helps to hold the fragrance longer, but also adds depth to the scent. The body lotion should either match the scent of your body wash or complement it. For instance, if you used a citrus-scented body wash, a floral or woody lotion could create a balanced and layered effect.

Layer with a Fragrance Mist or Eau de Toilette Next, apply a fragrance mist or eau de toilette. These lighter formulations are perfect for building layers without overwhelming the senses. Spray the mist or eau de toilette over your body, focusing on pulse points like your wrists, neck, and behind your ears.

This step adds another dimension to your fragrance, ensuring it evolves throughout the day. Remember to choose a mist that harmonizes with the scents you've already applied.

Finish with Your Favorite Perfume The final step in layering is applying your favorite perfume. This should be the most potent and longlasting fragrance in your routine. Spray it on your pulse points where the heat will help diffuse the scent over time. Because you’ve already built up layers with the body wash, lotion, and mist, the perfume will last longer and reveal its full complexity. This finishing touch will ensure your fragrance stays with you all day, adapting and evolving as the hours pass.

Experiment with Different Combinations One of the joys of fragrance layering is the freedom to experiment with different combinations. Don’t be afraid to mix and match scents to create something truly unique. You might discover that pairing a spicy oriental fragrance with a fresh citrus scent creates an unexpected and delightful result. The possibilities are endless, and the more you experiment, the better you’ll understand what works best for your skin and style.

Tips for Long-Lasting Fragrance To ensure your layered fragrance lasts even longer, here are a few additional tips:

● Apply Vaseline: Dab a small amount of Vaseline on your pulse points before spraying your perfume.

The balm helps to lock in the fragrance and slow down its evaporation.

Spray Perfume on Clothes: Lightly mist your clothes with perfume for an extra layer of scent. Just be careful to avoid staining delicate fabrics.

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Carry a Rollerball Perfume: For touch-ups throughout the day, carry a rollerball version of your perfume. It’s easy to apply and perfect for reapplying on the go.

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www.pooky.com

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FASHION

very

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Berry Beautiful

Set to become a new autumn favourite, burgundy covers everything from deep oxblood shades to rich merlot colours - there are so many variations of this deep, reddish-brown hue you’ll be spoilt for choice

Frill Dress, £45, River Island

Tweed Jacket, £80, Joe Browns

Coat, £50, Tu

Top, £30, Very

Faux Leather Skirt, £38, River Island

Marks & Spencer

Jumpsuit, £89.50, Oliver Bonas

Boots, £200, Dune London

Satin Skirt, £40, Threadbare

Cardigan, £26.99, New Look Chunky Bag, £55, River Island

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Black is Black

Black, such a useful and versatile staple in your wardrobe, from the classic little black dress to a forever cool biker jacket, it’s fashions last word in chic.

Frill Sleeve Blouse, £48, River Island

Very

Sequin Dress, £30 George

Leather Bomber Jacket, £110, Monsoon

Dress, £435, Staud

Sparkly Feathere Skirt, POA, Monsoon

Beaded Cuff, £20, Monsoon Suede Ankle Boots, £120, www.dunelondon.com

Jacket, £45, Very

Gem Drop Earrings, £12, Accessorize

Velvet Top, POA, Monsoon

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Faux-Fabulous

Whether it’s a walk in the woods or cocktails with friends, wrap yourself in fluffy elegance with a gorgeous faux fur coat

Cream Faux Fur Coat, £179, John Lewis

Neutral Faux Fur Coat, £89, Marks & Spencer

Grey Faux Fur Coat, £40, Tu

Mink Faux Fur Coat, £89.99, New Look

White Faux Fur Coat, £88, Next

Cream Faux Fur Cropped Jacket, £65, Very

River Island

Cream Faux Fur Coat, £199, Marks & Spencer

Red Faux Fur Short Jacket, £69, River Island

Brown Faux Fur Jacket, £79, Marks & Spencer

Black Faux Fur Coat, £89, River Island

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Lady in Red

Red can be so versatile, it pairs nicely with neutrals like olive, stone, khaki or even ivory, but you can also be bold and pair red with other bright hues like hot pink

Cardigan, £39.50, Marks & Spencer

Dress, £850, Victoria Beckham

Heart Button Cardigan, £350, Harrods Satin Dress,£25, Tu

One Shoulder Top, £20, Very

Quilted Bag, £35, Marks & Spencer

Reiss

Dress, POA, Monsoon

Scalloped Leather Gloves, £45, Oliver Bonas Velvet Headband, £7.50, Marks & spencer

Satin Blouse, £275, Simkhai

Satin Crinkle Dress, £39, Next

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Boot Room

As essential and timeless as the little black dress, black boots have been designed to fit effortlessly into your life and your wardrobe 1. £1,570, Valentino 2. £50, Linzi 3. £65, Tu 4. £66, River Island 5. £110, Marks & Spencer 6. £120, Joe Browns 7. £180, Dune London 8. £190, Jones Bootmaker 9. £200, Dune London 10. £449, LK Bennett

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Christmas Gift Guide We’ve rounded up some of our favourite gifts everyone will love

John Lewis

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The Serpent Earrings, £250, www.thechariteslondon.com

Loop Cashmere Blanket Stitch Cardigan, £300, www.loopcashmere.co.uk

Merrel Trainers, £125, www.merrell.com Aria Balcony Bra, £165, Briefs, £100, www.vollers-corsets.com

Marc Jacobs Daisy Wild Eau de Parfum, £60, www.theperfumeshop.com

Camilla Sacred Symbols Bracelet, £186, www.uk.camilla.com

The Glove Boot, £329, www.essenthelabel.com

WOLF Card Case, £85.01, www.wolf1834.com

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Samantha Siu Glistening Necklace, £1,607, www.samanthasiu.com

Neom Winter Wellbeing Trio, £48, www.neomwellbeing.com

Maya Midi Handbag in Taupe, £875, www.lalagebeaumont.com

The Lady

loves Any lady in your life will love to find one of these gifts under the tree this Christmastime

Shleep Knitted Fleece Travel Kit, £449, Harrods

Silk'n SonicYou Electric Toothbrush, £89, www.lookfantastic.com Dolly Slippers, £29, www.prettyyoulondon.com Bamboo Pyjamas, £50, www.prettyyoulondon.com

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Charbonnel et Walker Bond Street Christmas Hamper, £225, www.charbonnel.co.uk

Salter Chocolatier, £39.99, www.salter.com

Salter Bakes Stand Mixer, £82.99, www.salter.com

Jingle Bells Musical Biscuit Tin, £16.95, Fortnum & Mason

Afternoon Tea Tray Ornament, £25.95, Fortnum & Mason

Cartwright & Butler Afternoon Tea Selection, £24, Harrods

Plum Pudding in Spode Basin, £60, Fortnum & Mason

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Steins Sweet Stocking, £55, www.shop.rickstein.com .

Eataly Tagliere Bundle, £65.90, www.eataly.slerp.com

festive

foodie Perfect gifts to indulge your inner foodie this Festive season

Bubbleology Fruit Tea Mixology Kit, £8.50, www.bubbleology.co.uk

Peanut Butter Cups Cracker, £12, Harrods

Venchi Prestige Chocolate Hamper, £115, www.uk.venchi.com

Black & White Truffle Oil, £16.35, Amazon

Pasta Making Kit, £50, www.pastaevangelists.com

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Barbour Howe Sweatshirt, £99.95, www.barbour.com

Beats Solo 4, £199, Amazon

Marques de Casa Noble Tequila, £240, hedonism.co.uk

Tweed Cap, £16, Marks & Spencer

Charbonnel et Walker Truffles, £20, Amazon

CREED Millesime Imperial, from £190, www.creedfragrances.co.uk

Roberts Radio, £149, Amazon

Cashmere Jumper, £275, www.loopcashmere.co.uk

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Wax Holdall, £179, www.barbour.com

CREED Delphinus, from £235, www.creedfragrances.co.uk

mens

Orient Star Skeleton Watch, £1,064, www.orientwatch.co.uk

room

What do you get the men in your life? We’ve found gifts they’re going to love

Chopard Steering Wheel Cufflinks, £510, Harrods

Lumi Therapy Ice Bath, £85, www.lumitherapy.co.uk

Coffee Liqueur, £29.89, Amazon

WOLF Watch Box, £495, www.wolf1834.com

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Blomus Sea Salt & Sage Candle,£11.15, Amazon

Jellycat Amuseables Hot Chocolate, £28, www.jellycat.com

Satin Slip, £20, Marks & Spencer

Sol de Janeiro Body Minis, £24, www.

Large Clip Belt, £25, River Island

Sausage Dog Coin Purse, £14, Accessorize

Faux Fur Hot Water Bottle, £18, Next

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Necklace, £23, Betty & Biddy

Microwaveable Avocado Warmer, £19.99, warmies.co.uk

Stocking

fillers We’ve found the perfect gifts to pop in those stockings, and all for under £30!

Venchi Gift Box, £25, www.uk.venchi.com

STYLPRO Mini Microcurrent Facial Toning Device, £29.99, www.stylpro.co.uk

Brown Bag, £22, River Island

Oversized Sweatshirt, £22, Very Personalised Christmas Cookies, £25, www.bakedbysteph.co.uk

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Floral Doll Pram £49, www.jojomammanbebe.co.uk

Pooh Bear, £26.99, Rainbow Designs

Edurino Numbers and Shapes Starter Set, £44, www.edurino.co.uk

Janod Brico'Kids Robot Tool Box, £35, www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Jellycat Amuseable Peanut Reindeer £20, www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Elf Lotto, £6, www.orchardtoys.com

Infantino Penguin Bath Toy, £13, Argos

Infantino Kick N Keys Gym, £60, Argos

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Reindeer Sequin Tulle Frill Sweatshirt £26, www.jojomamman.co.uk

Spencer Bear Hat & Mittens Set, £12, Marks & Spencer Just Bee Kids Wooden Xylophone, £17.99, Amazon

small

wonders Santa’s been busy choosing gifts that your little ones will love to open on Christmas morning.

Sylvanian Families Secret Forest Falls, £59.99, John Lewis

Lilliputiens Animated Music Box, £30.50, John Lewis

Bartholomew Bear in Winter Pyjamas, £40, www.jellycat.com

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The Night Before Christmas Add a personalised gift from My 1st Years (www.my1styears.com)this Christmastime and watch your little one’s face light up

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Wooden Tool Box, £27.00 Pink Bunny Back Pack, £25.00 Red Reindeer Christmas Jumper, £30.00 Santa Sleigh Gift Sack, £26.00 Wooden Train Set, £76.00 Christmas Eve Decorating Set, £65.00 Wooden Animal Ark Set, £45.00 Wooden Dolls Pram & Doll Set, £100.00 Santa Christmas Platter, £20.00

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Food & Drink

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FOODIE NEWS Celebrate the Festive Season With the festive season fast approaching it’s the perfect time to spotlight one of the most exquisite champagnes, Champagne Lallier R.020 (£44.95, www.thewhiskyexchange.com) to enjoy with your friends and family.

Whether you’re looking for a way to elevate your celebration or simply indulge in a moment of luxury, offering an unmatched experience that will make the occasion truly unforgettable.

A Sparkling Wonderland Embrace the spirit of the season at Forbes five-star hotel, Pan Pacific London with exceptional dining set against a magical festive backdrop.

From 13 November, enjoy a picture-perfect festive afternoon tea at Pan Pacific London, featuring seasonal delights like a Rudolph pecan tart, a mint chocolate macaron wreath and a plum and chestnut mousse ‘bauble’ alongside delicate finger sandwiches and orange and cranberry scones. And for the little ones? They’ll love getting handson with the children’s afternoon tea, complete with fun interactive activities like biscuit decorating and cupcake crafting. It’s a magical experience for all ages!

For bookings and further information, visit www.panpacificlondon.com.

The Life, Soul, and Tastes of Italy From the rugged Alpine mountains to the glistening shores of the Amalfi Coast, new book Appetito paints a vivid portrait of a country rich in passion, tradition, and simply good food. Weaving colourful food stories with heartfelt anecdotes over 50 recipes, Alison Ranwell welcomes readers into her Italian family kitchen in this fabulously delicious book.

Chop it Up Perfectly suited to any elegant kitchen decor, Stellar’s brand new Pure Oak Chopping Boards (from £27, www.stellar.co.uk) are the statement pieces you’ll want to own.

Combining practicality with beauty, the new Pure Red Oak Boards make an attractive addition to any kitchen.

Designed to last, they’re carefully crafted from naturally strong, 100% pure red oak, and boast unique grain patterns and a beautifully-carved design with soft curves, making it perfect for food prep, as a serving platter, or simply to add a touch of style to your kitchen.

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Roasted Brussels Sprout Pasta An autumn-inspired Brussels sprouts dish that’s so scrumptious, even the skeptics might come back for seconds!

Ingredients 1 pound brussels sprouts, bottom stemmed trimmed and thinly sliced lengthwise 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 8oz pasta 1 tbsp olive oil 2 garlic cloves, minced Pinch of red pepper flakes 1/4 tsp kosher salt 1/4 tsp black pepper 1 lemon, juice and zest 1/4 cup grated pecorino cheese (about 1/2 ounce), plus more for serving 1 tbsp chopped parsley, plus more for serving Method Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F with a sheet pan on the center rack.

Stir the brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Carefully spread them across the preheated pan. Roast for 1520 minutes until brown and crisp at the edges using a spatula to flip and toss them about halfway through cooking.

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions. (You can start this while the brussels sprouts are roasting. Keep in mind that the pasta will take less time than the sprouts to cook.)

In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper sautéing until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir in the pasta and lemon juice, coating them in the garlic, spices and olive oil. Stir in the roasted brussels sprouts, lemon zest, pecorino and parsley.

Top with additional cheese and parsley as desired before serving.

Recipe from: www.lastingredient.com

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Butternut squash and Chestnut Strudel Sweet and spicy squash and chestnuts encased in rich pancakes and flaky pastry make a fabulous vegetarian alternative to a nut roast which will steal the show on Christmas Day.

Ingredients 5 Clarence Court Burford Brown eggs 1.5kg butternut squash Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon chilli flakes ½ teaspoon smoked paprika plus a little for sprinkling ½ teaspoon ground cumin Whole nutmeg 1 onion peeled and grated 150g vac pac chestnuts 50g breadcrumbs 2 sprigs rosemary, leaves picked 3 ready-made crepes 2 500g blocks ready-made puff pastry

Method

Pre-heat the oven to 180c/360f/gas mark 4. Roast the squash in the oven for around 1 hour until cooked through. Halve the squash, scoop out the seeds.

Scoop the flesh out and place in a large mixing bowl. Add the spices, grated onion and crumble in the chestnuts and pick in the rosemary, stir in the crumbs. Allow the mixture to cool.

Soft boil 4 of the eggs, cool and peel. Pre-heat the oven to 200c/400f/gas mark 6. Line a baking tray with greaseproof paper.

Roll out the pastry into a 35cm x 20cm rectangle and place on the lined baking tray. Lay over 2 of the crepes so they slightly overlap on top of the pastry. Spoon half the mixture to make a log shape on to the crepes leaving a 3cm border around the edge. Arrange the eggs in a line over the mixture and spoon over the remaining mixture to encase the eggs. Lay a crepe over the top of the mixture and wrap the edges of the base crepes up over the top.

Whisk the remaining egg and brush a little over the crepes to secure them in place. Brush beaten egg around the border. Roll out the second pastry block and drape the pastry over the crepe wrapped mix. Carefully pat the pastry over the filling pressing out any air bubbles. Trim the pastry around the border and use a fork to crimp all around the edges. Brush the pastry all over with the beaten egg and cut 3 slits in the top. Sprinkle over a little sea salt and smoked paprika.

Place the pastry in the oven and bake for around 50 minutes to 1 hour or until golden and cooked through. Once baked allow to sit for 5 minutes. Slice and serve with steamed greens.

Recipe from: www.clarencecourt.co.uk

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Chocolate Orange Cake Add a modern seasonal twist to your yuletide baking that's sure to go down a storm over this festive season.

Ingredients 2 oranges 200g sugar 5 tbsp water 50g cocoa 75ml boiling water 1 tsp vanilla extract 175g caster sugar 3 eggs 100ml olive oil 1 tbsp orange rind from above 150g Doves Farm Organic Self Raising White Flour Oil for tin 75g plain chocolate 25ml cream

Method Peel some orange zest strips into a small bowl, and finely grate the remaining rind into another bowl. Thinly slice the oranges and half the slices.

Put the sugar and water into a saucepan, over a medium heat and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add the orange halves and boil gently until translucent and soft, about 15 minutes. Carefully lift the orange slices out of the syrup onto a plate.

Put the orange zest into the syrup (reserve the grated rind for later) and cook for 4-5 minutes. Remove the caramelised zest onto another plate.

Insert a cake liner in a 20cm/8" deep, round cake tin and pre-heat the oven. Lay the prepared orange slices in a circular pattern in the bottom of the tin.

Measure the cocoa into a bowl, add the boiling water and vanilla extract and stir until smooth. Put the sugar and eggs into a mixing bowl and beat until smooth and creamy.

Beat in the prepared cocoa followed by the olive oil and reserved grated rind. Add the flour and stir to combine. Tip the mixture onto the oranges and smooth the top.

Bake for 45-50 minutes - 180°C / Fan 160°C / 350°F / Gas 4.

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You Had Me at Merlot

Celebrate National Merlot Day (7th November) with a selection of Merlot’s. These delicious, smooth and fruitforward reds, are all available from Tesco.

Barefoot Merlot Packed with tempting flavours of blackberry, raspberry and chocolate, with a silky smooth finish. Great served with beef, poultry, pasta with tomato sauces, cheese and dessert. £8.00

Dark Horse Merlot A medium-bodied Merlot with notes of dark berry and a layered finish.

Flavourful, Vibrant, Aromatic. £10.00

Apothic Merlot This Merlot with untamed notes of blackberry and vanilla, and a plush, velvety finish that soars at first sip. £10.00

Oyster Bay Merlot Oyster Bay captures the special character of New Zealand's cool climate viticulture... elegant, assertive wines with glorious fruit flavours. £11.50

Hardys VR Merlot A soft Australian red wine with flavours of intense plum and dark cherries, with toasty oak on the finish. £5.50 All bottles available from Tesco

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Deck the Halls

Whether it’s traditional or elegant, we’ve got Christmas decor for everyone

John Lewis

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Glass Bauble, £6.99, Dobbies

Acorn Bauble, £16 (set of 6), Marquis & Dawe

Hanging Glass Bauble, £21, Heavenly Homes and Gardens

Ribbed Bauble, £3.99, Gisela Graham London

Diamante Bauble, £4.99, Gisela Graham London

GOLD & SILVER

OPULENCE Heart Bauble, £5.99 (set of 3), Homesense

Showcase the grandeur of the season with a collection of Christmas decorations in lustrous silver and gold

Hanging Pear, £2.99, Dobbies

Clear Gold Glass Bauble, £4.99, Gisela Graham London

Beaded Leaf Bauble, £4.99, The Christmas Decoration Shop.

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Beaded Bauble, £2.99, Homesense

Sparkling Stripes Bauble, £3.49, Gisela Graham London

Glittered Glass Bauble, £28 (set of 6), Cox & Cox

Marks & Spencer

Dew Drop Bauble, £7, Heavenly Homes and Gardens

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Drop Bauble, £12, B&Q

Flock Harlequin Glass Bauble £4.99, Gisela Graham London

Feather Bauble, £2.99, Homesense

Navy with Copper Bauble, £2, B&Q

Unicorn Bauble, £7.99, The Christmas Decoration Shop

MIDNIGHT blue Deep blue and accents of gold create a bold and decadent look that fits with any colour scheme

Velvet Cone Tree, £1.99, Home Bargains

Glass Jewel Bauble, £4.99, Gisela Graham London

Studded Bauble, £5.99, Homesense

Snowflake, £6, National Trust

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Glass Spinner Bauble, £21, Heavenly Homes and Garden

Hand Marbled Bauble, £40, Webb & Gray

Celestial Baubles, £9, Heavenly Homes and Gardens

Velvet Bauble, £1.50, B&M

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Ribbed Glass Bauble, £4.49, Gisela Graham London Glass Egg Bauble, £5.99, Gisela Graham

Berry Bauble, £3, B&M

Paper Mache Bauble, £5, John Lewis Decoupage Bauble, £2, B&Q Velvet Tree, £30, Harrods

NATURAL GREEN

Leaf Bauble, £2, B&Q

Marble Bauble, £8.50, Heavenly Homes and Gardens

Capture a little Scandi hygge, with pale greens, perfect for cosy festive nights in front of the fire

Farley Glass Bauble (£24.99, set of 6), Wayfair Snowflake Bauble, £25, Harrods

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Textured Bauble, £5, Heavenly Homes and Gardens

Diamante & Glitter Bauble, £4.99, Gisela Graham London

Ovel Bauble, £24, Harrods

Lights4fun

Glass Bauble, £3.99, TK Maxx

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Crystal Bauble, £3.99, TK Maxx

Handblown Glass Bauble, £25 (set of 4), Cox & Cox

Diamante Bauble, £3.99, TK Max

Glass Bauble, £5, Habitat

Faux Fur Bauble, £12 (set of 3), Next

Marble Bauble, £4.99, Dobbies

Diamond Bauble, £3, B&M

white christmas

Classic white is a pure and simple yuletide look that always creates a luxury look everyone will love

Star Bauble, £4.99, Gisela Graham

White Bauble, £10 (set of 3), Habitat

Tear Drop Bauble, £32, Harrods

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Lace Bauble, £25, Harrods

Pearl Bauble, £4.49, Gisela Graham London

Glass Bauble, £25, Harrods

Swan with Crown, £19.99, Homesense Lights4fun

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Dragon, £7, John Lewis

Glass Elephant, £8, John Lewis

Mexican Chilli, £3.99, TK Maxx

Nutcracker, £15.95, Fortnum & Mason

Felt Christmas Tree, £4, Habitat

Rollerskating Giraffe, £5, Habitat

NOVEL & NICE

Make your house a grotto of gorgeousness with a rainbow of colours and novelties hanging on your tree

Mince Pie Bauble, £3.99, Homesense

Cake Stand, £25.95, Fortnum & Mason

Dinosaur, £5, Marks & Spencer

Glass Books, £5.99, Dobbies

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Dancing Zebra, £5, Marks & Spencer

Hot sauce decoration £5, Marks & Spencer

Macaron Stack, £3.99, TK Maxx

Dobbies

Ice Cream, £5.99, Dobbies

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TRAVEL

Switzerland

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Lord of Snow in Courchevel 1850 This winter season, Haute Montagne – the ultra-lux sister company to Bramble Ski – announces its launch into Courchevel 1850 with the brand-new opening of Lord of Snow; a showstopping ski-in, skiout super chalet just off the famed Bellecote Piste.

A design project of four years, this architectural marvel has been led by acclaimed French architect Sophie Decoopman, famous for her ability to sensitively infuse tradition with refined modernity.

Spanning six floors and an impressive 1,200 square metres, every inch of the chalet has been meticulously designed. Natural, traditional materials such as European Larch cladding, oak parquet flooring and lauze slate roofing, have been used in the chalet’s construction, tastefully harmonising with the alpine surroundings to deliver a refined, chocolate-box aesthetic.

Accommodating up to 14 guests in seven exquisitely appointed bedrooms, including a stunning master suite, it’s at the centre of the chalet which lies the heart; a unique collection of hand selected, antique furniture, many of which sourced from museums with some dating back to the 18th century. Complementing these timeless treasures are new bespoke creations, including a custom dining table by L'Atelier des Freres, alongside contemporary designs from celebrated names like Francesco Binfaré and Patricia Urquiola.

After a day on the slopes, guests can unwind in the private in-chalet

spa, complete with an indoor swimming pool, hammam, sauna, and state-of-the-art gym. For those seeking entertainment, guests can gather in the private cinema room for a cosy movie night or enjoy a game in the stylishly appointed Billiards room whilst a private chef prepares favourite canapes and cocktails.

With private catering, chauffeur service and housekeeping already a staple of luxury ski holidays, guests of Lord of Snow are offered a truly unparalleled level of service with Haute Montagne’s dedicated pre-arrival and in-resort concierge, where they can decide exactly what they want out of their trip; from adrenaline-fuelling Heli-skiing to breath-taking picnics in the snow, no request is too extravagant.

With its number one desired location, impeccable design, and worldclass amenities, Lord of Snow by Haute Montagne adds to its prestigious portfolio of “superyachts in the snow” this season.

BOOK IT

Rates for Lord of Snow start from £126,862 per week on a fully serviced basis, inclusive of private concierge, private chef, in-chalet ski, and boot delivery.

For more information, please visit www.hautemontagne.com

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The Ancient Art of

Greek Winemaking

From saunas, winter bathing and festive fairy-lit kayak parades to fællesspisning (communal feasting) and the iconic traditional Christmas markets of Tivoli and Nyhavn, Copenhagen is the ultimate Christmas destination.

Christmas Stay The Kurhotel Skodsborg Christmas Stay takes place on 24th December - Christmas Eve (or Juleaften), the night that Danes traditionally celebrate Christmas. The package includes:

Kurhotel Skodsborg is synonymous with SaunaGus: the spa hotel’s signature experience that combines breathwork, meditation and hot-cold therapy. This extraordinary – and genuinely transformative - sauna experience is led by a Gusmaster and is best described as an aromatherapy sauna set to music, followed by a dip in The Sound. This authentic Danish tradition is a key part of the spa hotel’s Christmas offering, which spans the following packages:

New Year’s Stay The Kurhotel Skodsborg New Year’s Stay on 31st December includes: - A one-night stay for two in a standard room - A champagne reception to toast her Majesty The Queen of Denmark’s traditional New Year’s speech - A five course New Year’s Eve dinner – paired with wines – in Brasserie Carl - An open bar, DJ and dancing late into the night - A New Year firework display followed by some delicious midnight snacks to re-fuel the revellers - A New Year’s breakfast - Full access to Kurhotel Skodsborg’s 100m² hydrospa offering an impressive 16 different cooling and warming experiences

This year, Denmark’s original spa Kurhotel Skodsborg - located just up to coast from Copenhagen between The Sound and the UNESCO heritage nature reserve, Dyrehaven – offers an alternative take on a festive Danish city break. A short train ride from the city centre, Kurhotel Skodsborg is an award-winning, 125-year old spa hotel and retreat based on the simple Nordic traditions of founder Dr Carl Ottosen. A refreshing change from the season’s festive mayhem, but just a stone’s throw away from the action.

Ultimate Festive Stay Kurhotel Skodsborg’s one-night Ultimate Festive Stay runs throughout the festive period. The stay is based on the early nineteenthly century philosophies of Founder, Dr Carl Ottosen and his belief that the fundamental principles for a healthy life simply boil down to: light, air, water, nutrition, exercise and rest. As such, the package includes:

- An exclusive 60-minute SaunaGus session – Kurhotel Skodsborg’s signature spa experience - led by a Gusmaster (allowing enough time for three rounds of sauna and cold dipping) - Full access to Kurhotel Skodsborg’s 100m² hydrospa offering an impressive 16 different cooling and warming experiences, plus access to all fitness classes (must be booked in advance; T&Cs apply).

- A festive afternoon tea in the hotel’s lounge, The Lobby.

- A festive three-course dinner with wine pairing at hotel restaurant, Brasserie Carl - Breakfast in Brasserie Carl

- A one-night stay for two in a superior room - A traditional Danish afternoon of mulled wine and Christmas cake by the fire - A three-course Christmas Eve dinner – paired with wines – in Brasserie Carl followed by coffee and cake by the tree - A Christmas Day breakfast - Full access to Kurhotel Skodsborg’s 100m² hydrospa offering an impressive 16 different cooling and warming experiences

BOOK IT

The Kurhotel Skodsborg Ultimate Festive Stay starts from DKK 3,050 (approx. £350) per night per person in a shared standard double room.

The Kurhotel Skodsborg Christmas Stay starts from DKK6,499 (approx. £743 per night based on two sharing).

The Kurhotel Skodsborg New Year’s Stay starts from DKK8,199 (approx. £938 per night based on two sharing).

For more information or to book, visit www.skodsborg.dk/en

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A New Icon:

Delano Opens in Dubai

The opening of Delano Dubai writes a new chapter for a storied brand and introduces a fresh hotel and resort experience, underscored by a singular blend of social magnetism and chic elegance.

Set on the pristine shores of Bluewaters Dubai and perfectly placed between the vibrant dynamism of the city’s skyline and the exquisite tranquillity of the Arabian Gulf, Delano Dubai reimagines the Miami signatures that captivated the world and redefined luxury hospitality thirty years ago. The hotel features 251 guest rooms including 84 spectacular suites, all designed in Delano’s signature, sublimely understated style.

Exceptional restaurant and bar concepts are at the heart of the Delano experience, including a reawakened Rose Bar and return of the legendary Blue Door restaurant, bringing something entirely unique to the city’s dining and mixology scene and establishing the hotel as a veritable social hub. A stylish wellness studio, and of course the famous Delano Pool with its iconic sunken furniture, complete the scene for Dubai’s most exclusive new destination.

Upon entry, the apparent simplicity of the bright, light-filled public areas unfurls into a layered, tactile aesthetic informed by a soft minimalism crafted through brand design signatures. In the lobby, the interplay between dark and light is explored through architectural lighting and the juxtaposition of the crisp ‘Delano White’ walls with dark wide-board timber flooring.

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The dark to light motif continues through to the private guest areas, as softly lit monochrome corridors lead guests into spacious rooms and suites streaming with natural daylight, captured in room names like Rising Light and Waking Eclipse. The design of each room is guided by a chic, tonal palette and embraces fluidity in soft, curved silhouettes and rich textures.

Think: white oak flooring dotted with custom wool rugs, luxurious king-size beds framed by fluted, oversized headboards and cocoon-like clusters of textured boucle sofas and chairs in the living areas of the suites. Each guestroom has a blissfully secluded balcony or terrace overlooking the resort’s verdant, tree-studded gardens or the shimmering waters of the Arabian Gulf, while the ground-floor Breaking Waves Suites also offer private pools set just steps away from the pristine beach.

At the heart of Delano Dubai lies its culinary offerings. The reimagined Rose Bar and the soon-toopen Blue Door restaurant promise to invigorate the city's dining scene. The famous Delano Pool, complete with its distinctive sunken furniture, anchors the resort experience.

With its prime location on 250 meters of private beachfront, stylish wellness studio, and array of dining options, Delano Dubai is poised to become a new social hub in the emirate's ever-evolving luxury landscape.

For more information or to book, visit www.delanodubai.com

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Uga Halloowella Opens in Hatton, Sri Lanka

Uga, the boutique Sri Lankan hotel group renowned for its world-class hospitality, have announced the upcoming launch of its sixth property, Uga Halloowella, in January 2025.

Perched on a hilltop within a 252-acre tea estate in Sri Lanka’s historic central tea trails region, Uga Halloowella will offer six luxurious suites alongside impeccable indoor and al-fresco dining experiences, expansive lawns, and a large, tempting infinity pool.

Located 146km from Colombo, Uga Halloowella is accessible via helicopter or by scenic drive and is on the doorstep of some of the region’s must-visit attractions, including the famous Pekoe Trail.

Nestled within the cool climes and quiet hills of Hatton and overlooking the stunning Castlereagh Reservoir, the colonialera bungalow sits 1,444m above sea level on the sprawling former estate of Major Elton Lane, a World War I fighter pilot for the British Royal Air Force. Steeped in history and heritage and enveloped by lush tea estates, the property has been lovingly restored to its former glory by Uga alongside renowned Sri Lankan architect Channa Daswatte.

Accommodation The six exclusive guest suites at Halloowella will provide oldworld sophistication together with all the luxurious comforts for which Uga is renowned. Three categories of suites – Planter’s, Pekoe and Lane – feature design cues taken from the property’s colonial history combined with ultra-modern amenities: The Lane Suites (843 – 958 sq ft) – Paying homage to the

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original owners of the bungalow, Elton and Violet Lane, the sprawling Lane Suites showcase the very best of Sri Lankan hospitality, with a large living room, four-poster bed and a wood-burning fireplace perfect for chillier evenings in the highlands. Airy en-suite bathrooms feature ornate clawfoot bathtubs in the optimal vantage point for enjoying the spectacular landscapes of the hill country.

The Pekoe Suites (398 – 439 sq ft) – Named after the worldfamous Pekoe Trail that winds its way around the property, the charming Pekoe Suites offer four-poster beds, ornate furnishings, and luxurious claw-foot bathtubs along with a private garden providing incredible views of the surrounding lush mountains.

The Planter’s Suites (416 – 444 sq ft) – Taking their name from the talented planters who have worked on the Halloowella estate over the years, the well-appointed Planter’s Suites offer panoramic views of Castlereagh and a cosy ambiance filled with plush furnishings and modern amenities to ensure comfort and convenience.

Dining and Activities The signature restaurant at Uga Halloowella, which will feature an indoor dining room and outdoor terrace, will take guests on a culinary adventure around Sri Lanka using the freshest of produce from the surrounding highlands.

With dining experiences ranging from a secret sundowner experience and a degustation and wine pairing dinner to Sri Lankan cooking masterclasses and garden barbeques, a true gastronomic journey awaits.

Endless adventure surrounds the property, which is ideally located to explore the authentic spirit of the highlands. A range of carefully curated experiences, including kayaking in the cool waters of Castlereagh Reservoir, guided tea country hikes, educational visits to a historic tea factory and the chance to uncover Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity by bike, provide an unparalleled opportunity to escape the stresses of urban life and embrace a slower-paced way of life.

BOOK IT

Nightly rates at Uga Halloowella will start from $1,125 (£875*) on an all-inclusive basis.

For more information or to book, visit www.ugaescapes.com

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An Enchanted Festive Season at

Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris’s Enchanted Christmas will don its winter coat, bringing out dazzling decorations, greetings with Santa and iconic Disney characters in festive fashions, as well as enchanting shows including the renamed Mickey's Dazzling Christmas Parade. This fairytale atmosphere will extend into the parks, stores, restaurants and even the Disney Hotels, especially Disneyland Hotel, which will dress up in the gentlest Yuletide colours to offer kids and grown-ups a royal dream.

What's more, all guests to Disneyland Paris will have the unique opportunity to greet the new year in a magical, festive setting on 31st December 2024.

On the way into Disneyland Park, a majestic 24-metre-high Christmas tree towers over Main Street, U.S.A., adorned by almost 1,000 Christmas ornaments. This central avenue, where snow will fall several times a day, will shine dazzlingly bright, leading guests as far as Sleeping Beauty Castle. Once a day in the Castle Courtyard, children and grown-ups will be able to greet Aurora and her Prince Philip from Disney Animation's “Sleeping Beauty”, present from 16th November, before heading off to meet other beloved Disney characters such as Chip 'n' Dale or Winnie the Pooh. Some of these characters – like Stitch, Goofy and Jack Skellington – will even dare to dress up like Santa! And he will most definitely be at Disneyland Paris, listening to last-minute Christmas gift wishes before embarking on his yearly long-haul journey.

The legendary end-of-year Mickey's Dazzling Christmas Parade will be staging its big comeback. Twice daily, several floats will parade along Main Street, U.S.A. to the sound of exhilarating music, accompanied by Mickey Mouse and his friends, Disney Princesses and Santa Claus.

After this high-spirited ceremony, it's time for the musical “Let's Sing Christmas” staged in Videopolis Theatre and featuring Mickey, Minnie and their friends – an opportunity to come and sing traditional Christmas carols such as Little Santa Claus or Jingle Bells, with lyrics displayed in real-time onscreen. Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy and Goofy will be joined this year by a new friend, to kindle a festive Christmas spirit in a cheerfully warm-hearted atmosphere.

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Christmas is the ideal time to step inside a fully-fledged fairytale.

And what could be better than admiring Disney Princesses, in their most beautiful dresses greeting guests with an elegant waltz at the foot of Sleeping Beauty Castle?

But the magic of Christmas doesn't end there! From 16th November, once daily, guests can also watch an exuberant get-together in Town Square, where Mickey, Minnie and their friends, Santa Claus, Horace and Clarabelle will all make appearances and relish a sparkling, highspirited reunion as well as Disney Animation characters such as Stitch and Pinocchio!

Just before the nighttime spectacular Disney Illuminations begins, the spirit of Christmas will be celebrated over Sleeping Beauty Castle with the famous Disney Electrical Sky Parade, with Christmas colours lighting up the castle, the famous Nutcrackers, decorated Christmas trees, gifts, and even giant candy canes.

A short stroll away from Disneyland Park, the magic of Christmas will come alive at Disneyland Hotel. This royal hotel, with its traditional Christmas décor, offers the most heartwarming family experience imaginable. During the Christmas season, a new show will replace La Troupe Royale Disney in the lobby, featuring the

appearance of The Keeper of Time and the Winter Light. This magical moment will transport guests into the heart of Christmas storytelling that is as funny as it is enchanting! The guards will teach young guests the magic words needed to open the magical book of time, releasing the Winter Light, which will illuminate the Christmas tree.

Disneyland Hotel will offer refined Christmas-inspired gourmet dining, with themed desserts available at the Royal Banquet Buffet Restaurant, as well as a selection of exclusive drinks at the Fleur de Lys Bar. Festive menus will also be available for both Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.

On 31st December, Disneyland Paris invites guests to bid farewell to 2024 in a unique and festive way, whether with family or friends.

The new year will be welcomed with a spectacular firework display in Disneyland Park, which will remain open until 1.00am to ring in 2025.

BOOK IT Enjoy a two-night stay at Disneyland Paris from £382 per person, including accommodation at Disney Hotel Santa Fe® with access to the Disney Parks for three days and direct return flights with EasyJet. To book visit: http://www.disneylandparis.com

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Inspired by the 40th Anniversary of the iconic CD series, the premiere tour of NOW That’s What I Call A Musical comes to Milton Keynes Theatre this month.

This brand-new British musical written by award-winning comedian Pippa Evans and directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood, tells the beautiful and funny story about two schoolgirls navigating life through their shared love of music.

We caught up with Craig Revel Horwood to discuss pop music, pinups and fashion.

What sort of night are audiences in for when they come to see NOW That's What I Call A Musical?

They can expect some fantastic tunes, a blast from the past, some amazing dancing, some great singing and a great story. It's a little bit like Stephen Sondheim's Follies in the fact that it's set at a reunion and there are flashbacks. The main characters flash back to how they were as teenagers, the music they listened to back in the 80s and the things that led them to live their lives the way they have. It explores all of that and we also have a twist towards the end where we go ahead in time too. It goes through various time zones [laughs] so it's a little bit like Back to the Future.

How does it tie in with the NOW brand?

The flashbacks are all about the time when the NOW albums were so famous and so beloved, and the story is about two girls exploring how they've lived their lives through music. So those albums and that music were a big part of the leading characters' teenage years.

The show is written by Pippa Evans. How is it collaborating with her?

She's fun and she's funny. She's got a really great sense of humour and she's a fantastic writer, not to mention a fantastic comic writer.

She's come up with some great twists in the tale and she's quite sensitive as a writer towards young teenage girls and their relationship with their parents whilst they’re growing up.

It's a brand-new musical. That must be an exciting thing to be a part of?

It's really exciting because with a brand-new musical there's nothing to really base it on, so when you get into the rehearsal room you can be really creative and you have an open mind. That's what I love about doing new work. With this it's about weaving all the great songs through the story. That's one of the challenges, as well as making sure the story is strong. Comedy is a huge element in the show as well as a lot of heartfelt moments, and we're using songs from the 80s to help push the story forward. There are so many creative opportunities with a new show and when I'm directing I really let everyone have a bit of a say. We all create the show together in the room and I think that's really important. The actors can bring their creativity and their thoughts and ideas for the characters, then it's about structuring it.

How are the guest artists like Sinitta, Sonia, Carol Decker and Jay Osmond weaved into the story?

[Laughs] It's sort of a moment of madness really, where the musical goes into a little bit of fantasy. The singers the girls idolised and were totally in love with come to life to offer them wisdom and advice. It's a bit like Beauty School Dropout from Grease only the advice they give is much kinder!

Why do you think pop music is so important to everyone's lives?

The 80s was a great time for pop and music in general helps people through lots of emotional journeys in their lives, especially with teenagers because their hormones are running riot. As an older person you look back to those moments that made you happy and music is a huge part of that. This show taps into that nostalgia but it

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will also appeal to younger audiences because a lot of the 80s tunes are coming back or they've been covered by other artists. There's something in it for absolutely everyone and I think teenagers will associate with the two girls - how they're living their lives, their hopes and their dreams, and their aspirations - as much as adults will. Those are themes that are universal.

NOW That's What I Call Music is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Why do you think it's such an iconic brand?

Again it's because music is so important to people's lives and also the NOW albums first came along at a time when people would make compilations for friends and lovers. They were like ready-made mixtapes, where you'd get so many amazing hits on one album, cassette tape or on CD whereas before you'd have to buy individual singles or albums. I think a lot of teenagers now will be shocked and surprised that we had tape decks back in the day! Before the NOW albums you'd wait for a song to come on the radio, then record it onto a cassette, and you'd never manage to get the full version of it.

What was the first single and the first album you ever bought?

The first single I ever bought was Monster Mash, bizarrely, when I was growing up in Australia. And I think the first album I totally fell in love with was Dare by the Human League. I loved all the songs on

that album, the tone of it and the freedom of it. It was like a whole new experience because it was so modern.

Which pop pin-ups did you have on your wall during the 80s?

Coming after ABBA and going into the 80s it was Whitney Houston because I thought 'How can someone sing like that and look like that?' She was like a supermodel with this incredible voice. I loved Annie Lennox and the Eurythmics as well, plus Duran Duran.

What were your 80s fashion choices?

I used to have headbands and I had a long side parting, sort of like curtains. Looking back, my fashion was pretty bad actually but of course at the time I thought I was cool. I used to tie rags around my feet as well, around my calves, over my boots. It was a bit weird. I never got completely punky with it but I used to love that trendy headband and long hair combination. That and baggy jeans.

Have you ever met any of your popstar idols? And who would you most like to meet?

I've met Boy George, who was a real inspiration to me growing up. I just loved how outspoken he was and how he dressed. I've met him a few times actually and he's great company. I got to meet Whitney Houston before she died, which was amazing, and Olivia NewtonJohn. I've also met Liza Minnelli, Bette Midler, Annie Lennox... quite a few people, in fact. I haven't met Barbra Streisand yet but I'd really like to because I've been listening to her music my entire life.

What do you hope people take away from seeing NOW That's What I Call A Musical?

I think people will learn something about themselves.

The story will prompt them to reflect on their lives to date and how it's all worked out for them - what their hopes and aspirations were and how that fuelled whatever passion they had to help them become who they are today. People will see themselves in the show and that's one of the many things that's really great about it, along with the story, the costumes, the dancing, the comedy and all that fantastic music.

NOW That’s What I Call a Musical comes to Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday 12th – Saturday 16th November 2024.

Tickets are available from www.atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes

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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

Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) It will be a month of ups and downs as a conflict between your emotions and your nature will seem very noticeable. Someone’s tendency to be clingy could bring out the stubborn side of you as you will feel in need of some space and yet later you could find that you’re the one making demands. Take a breather, step back, see what you have to accomplish, and ask yourself what you really want to finish this month.

Favourable Dates: November 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23, 29 Favourable Colours: Purple & White

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Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) Everything you‘ve been working towards is finally shaping up into what you envisioned in the first place. You‘ll find it easier to connect to your intuition or your sixth sense. Any explosion you are headed for will be averted with your natural diplomacy and grace. If you are not already feeling calm and relaxed, don’t worry, you will soon be in situation like that. Your natural flexibility to see the "other side" of the coin is part of your charm.

Favourable Dates: November 2, 3, 11, 12, 20, 21, 29 Favourable Colours: Red & White Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) You can expect a little windfall, or a lucky break. Luck is on your side. That better opportunity you‘ve been looking for on the career front is finally here. You see yourself in a whole new light, and have discovered areas of yourself that are extraordinary and other parts that are not so great. Goals you‘ve set out to accomplish are becoming easier. Love will be optimistic and relaxed for you so you can concentrate now more on career.

Favourable Dates: November 1, 3, 10, 12, 19, 21, 28 Favourable Colours: Red &Yellow Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) You show great consideration towards others and are willing to compromise with them in order to build a stronger relationship or partnership. It's a time of celebrations and you may find yourself in groups and organizations. You could actually build a long-term friendship or close connection that could benefit you in many ways. Committed relationships will blossom further. If you are single, make yourself available for romantic liaisons. New romance may come soon.

Favourable Dates: November 3, 8, 12, 17, 21, 26 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow

Pisces (19 February – 20 March) Great changes are coming and will have a bearing upon your circumstance. This period marks the conclusion of one phase and the beginning of another. You are taking initially required steps to begin a new phase of life or career. Move away from looking at things on a mundane or physical level; try a spiritual viewpoint to help you move ahead. Don’t waste your time with projects which are not worthy of your attention, nor of value to your aspirations.

Favourable Dates: November 1, 8, 10, 17, 19, 26 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow Aries (21 March – 19 April) There is a scene of new opportunities and growth and they may come through unexpected resources or connections.

The next four weeks will bring a time for you to connect with friends and like-minded fellows. This may be a time for you to lead a group or branch out on your own. Finances look positive and this could be a time when you may gain financially through a job offer or opportunity to make money.

Favourable Dates: November 4, 7, 13, 16, 22, 25 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue

Taurus (20 April – 20 May) This month will bring a time for you to find and chase love, or spend time with children. It will also be a time for you to focus on a partner including a lover, spouse, friend or employee. It is a great time for you to collaborate and work closely with others to build a project or business venture. It

may bring some light-hearted moments – a new friend is on the horizon, although it’s doubtful you’ll hit it off at first.

Favourable Dates: November 1, 3, 10, 13, 21, 28 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow

Gemini (21 May – 20 June) You can make progress especially if your work has to do with beauty and pleasure or if you use your charm and connections to get where you want. Besides that, it will take a lot of fight, courage and enterprising spirit, because there will be many obstacles thrown in your way. The month will have strong financial connotations: there will appear a large amount of money or an important investment initiative.

Favourable Dates: November 1, 9, 10, 18, 27, 28 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow

Cancer (21 June – 22 July) You will be highly motivated and active to get projects done.

Your tone may be a bit aggressive so be careful not to come out to be pushy towards others. The next four weeks may bring a time for you to discuss issues and problems with a friend and lover. Friends from the past may pop up and want to communicate with you. You may run into friends and family through social networks, internet, text messages and phone calls.

Favourable Dates: November 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26 Favourable Colours: Blue & Green Leo (23 July – 22 August) Some illusions and glamorous notions that you have are painfully removed. You feel inclined to speak to others about your innermost feelings, your past, and other personal subjects, which builds closeness and trust in your relationships, especially with women. You may hear from someone from the past or reach out to someone you have a long history with or who was once very important in your life.

Favourable Dates: November 1, 3, 10, 12, 18, 21, 28 Favourable Colours: Red & White Virgo (23 August – 22 September) This month is all about you and your personal wants and needs. You are about to pay off that large loan or that you have managed to save enough money for the large purchase that you have been planning for a while now. The wealth or better finances are on the way. You may collaborate to further your career, finances, education or personal relationships. It is a time for you to receive plenty of praise and attention.

Favourable Dates: November 3, 5, 12, 14, 21, 23, 30 Favourable Colours: Green & White

Libra (23 September – 22 October) This period will bring a time for you to gain financially or materialistically through gifts or rewards. It could be that someone lends you money or you gain through a loan or credit card. Also, your sex life will improve at this time. This month will help you to focus on financial and material matters relating to taxes, credit, loans, child support, alimony and any other financial obligations to others or to yourself.

Favourable Dates: November 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23, 29 Favourable Colours: Purple & White manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

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Weekend Starts Here....

All I want for Christmas by Karen Swan Can she find love this Christmas?

Christmas in Copenhagen is a magical time of year but Darcy Cotterell isn’t feeling festive. Newly single, again, she's not even going home for Christmas. Instead she will be spending her holiday finishing her art history PhD. Her best friend, Freja, has other ideas. She signs Darcy up to a dating app, determined that she won't be lonely this Christmas.

Darcy agrees to three dates – but her mind is on work, not play: an unknown portrait by Denmark’s greatest painter has been found and she is tasked with identifying the woman in the painting. During her research, she encounters sexy, arrogant lawyer Max Lorensen – who happens to be bachelor number one! The attraction is instant but, knowing they must work together, they abandon the match. Or try to.

But their feelings are undeniable - until Darcy discovers Max has an agenda . . .

Juror #2

Set in the courtroom of a murder trial, “Juror #2” focuses on one of the jurors as he realises during the case that he killed the victim in a driving accident, and desperately attempts to get the defendant off without going to jail himself.

Release Date: 1 November

Someone Like You

Shocking news hits after young architect Dawson loses his best friend London. In his heartbreak, Dawson is compelled to launch an impossible search for London's secret sister, twins separated as embryos. But along the way, Dawson never planned to fall in love.

Release Date: 5 November

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PRICELESS AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

www.affinitymag.co.uk ISSUE 169

GIFT GUIDES GALORE

WWW.AFFINITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

- The Lady Loves - Mens Room - Foodie Lovers - Stocking Fillers under £30 - Little One's

TIME TO TRAVEL

We're Here to Inspire

Festive Food

And not a turkey in sight

BEAUTY ADVENTS What one will you choose?

ISSUE 169

Enjoy The Magic Everything you need for a sparkling season

Decorations to Dazzle