Affinity Luxury Lifestyle October 2021

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PRICELESS

www.affinitymag.co.uk AFFINITY LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

ISSUE 124

Pumpkin Spice We've taken a little pumpkin inspiration to help you transition into the new season and beyond

WWW.AFFINITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

MANAGING A MIGRANE

ISSUE 124

THINK PINK

AUTUMN FASHION EDIT Floral Dresses Stylish Sweaters Chelsea Boots Shackets

IT'S ALL ABOUT YOUR BREASTS

We Chat to an Expert

Best Beauty Buys this Autumn Winter Getaways We choose our favourites

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LETTER EDITOR’S

Autumn is well and truly here; the nights are drawing in and the leaves are changing colour. It gives us the perfect excuse to update our wardrobes (page 23) as well as our home (page 30).

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The foods we eat change, we go from light salads and BBQ’s to comfort food, such as casseroles and one pot delights, this month’s recipes (page 32) are full of hearty goodness that’ll make perfect autumn suppers for all the family.

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October is officially Breast Cancer Awareness month, and with the current pandemic happening around the world many charities have missed out on vital fund raising, so it is crucial now more than ever that we show our support. It’s easy to do, just purchase one of the many fabulous products that are donating a percentage of sales to Breast Cancer Charities – we’ve rounded up some of our favourites (page 18).

Do you suffer from migraines? There are so many reasons for this, turn to page 14 to find out what you can do.

Are you one of the many people that now accessorise their interiors depending on the season? Pumpkins now play a big part in this, they’re not just for Halloween. We’ve sourced some of our favourites (page 42) that’ll add style and elegance to any home.

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Next month will be the start of our countdown to Christmas, so be sure to look out for our festive issue.

Until then………

Take Care

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Jane x

1. Longines Mother of Pearl Diamond Watch, £1,090, www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com 2. Believe you Can Planner, £37.95, www.marthabrook.com 3. Bottega Leather Coat, £5,450, Selfridges 4. Camel Bag, £140, Dune London 5. ESPA Soothing Candle, £55, www.espaskincare.com Don’t forget to join us on social media, we love getting to know you!

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Editor: Jane Fry jane@affinitymag.co.uk 07507 602401 Advertising: affinitymagstewart@gmail.com 07595 894557 Graphic Design and Photography: David Zita dave@affinitymag.co.uk

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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 54 Affinity

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October 2021

10 13 18 21 24 27 30 35 38 45 50 54 58

Circle of Influence Hot Picks Wear it Pink Body Beautiful Keeping up with the Knits Stomp Away Foodie News Simply The Best Dark and Moody Puff Up Travel for the Soul The Langham, Jakarta Your Stars

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On The Cover Aspiga

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Circle of Influence After the last year and a half, I think we can safely say that we have all experienced stress, uncertainty, unpredictability and perhaps feelings of being out of control. Some of us are likely to have coped with such things much better than others. There are a wide range of things that may cause us concern, worry anxiety, and very often they are things we can do nothing about.

It is very easy to say ‘don’t worry’ to others or ourselves. Many of us know when we worry that it is pretty pointless but that doesn’t mean stopping is easy.

However, when we worry or are particularly anxious lots of other things can become very difficult. Even for people who have pretty good self-care routines, almost certainly when we get very anxious or worried they tend to go out of the window. It can become very difficult to plan things, we may find that concentrating is hard and we may become easily distracted. These things can begin to have an impact on our work, wellbeing and relationships. It can all become a bit exhausting and overwhelming.

But of course, at any one time there may be a whole bunch of things that cause us worry, particularly perhaps at the present time.

Take a moment to note down some of things that may be playing on your mind right now or over recent days.

You may think about very general things like the weather (if you’d planned a BBQ tomorrow) health of yourself or others, the traffic if you have a long journey planned or certain decisions that the government may have taken that will have an impact on you or yours.

But they are all things that we can do nothing about.

You may also have mentioned more specific things like a friend who has misinterpreted what you’ve said and is upset, or perhaps things others have said about you but not to you – both can be very upsetting but again they are not things that we can have a particular influence over, nor should we. Other people’s opinions of or about us, are not really our concern –they may have an impact on us but only if we allow them to.

The problem is that when we pay attention to or focus on things we can’t influence then we can become very frustrated, effectively we are putting our energy into things we can’t change. Whatever we do for example

we can’t ‘make’ people like us or agree with what we say.

Whatever we do, we can’t individually make the government change their mind – unless Marcus Rashford is reading this! So, the impact of concentrating on the things that we can’t influence can be very negative and puts us a position where we constantly being reactive.

So, let’s think for a moment about what we can have some control or influence over. Again, there will be some things that are quite general and others that may be quite specific. We can control the habits and routines we set up for ourselves, the friends we have, what we choose to fill our minds with and how we respond to others. We might not be able to control what others say about us but we can control how we talk about others, we can’t control what’s on the news but we can choose whether we watch or listen, or not.

When we start to make conscious choices about we do in those areas where we do have control, life can begin to feel a lot more positive and a lot less stressful. As I said at the beginning that doesn’t mean it is easy – but it might be well worth the effort if it will improve your wellbeing and reduce stress and fatigue.

One of the best ways to start is by gradually learning to be in the present, the ‘now’, the moment. Let’s be honest a lot of our worries stem from either things that have happened in the past or things that will happen in the future. Learning to be in the present can be a great support for wellbeing. There are lots of ways you can learn to do this such as mindfulness and meditation, getting ‘lost’ in music or art, creativity or connecting with nature and many more.

If life is starting to feel exhausting, perhaps at times overwhelming then try thinking about your worries in terms of what you do and don’t have influence over.

Separating them out and consciously taking action or changing our attitudes and thoughts about situations, learning to be in the now and concentrating on the circle of influence could have appositive impact on your mental and physical wellbeing.

For tips and hints to help you live a more fulfilling positive life join our face book group www.facebook.com/groups/AAYGroup

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BEAUTY UPDATES Natural Haircare ESPA have launched their new haircare products which includes Optimal Hair ProShampoo (£22) and Optimal Hair ProConditioner (£22). Packed with high-performance ingredients to help you achieve Hair Bliss, bringing a lustrous brilliance and revitalised appearance to your tresses, with improved manageability and a sleek, salon finish.

Twin Set With us spending more time at home investing in beautifully designed, highly effective hand and body care products has brought us a little sense of joy.

Never did we think that a beautifully scented hand wash and a luxurious hand cream could become as important as our daily face cream.

With this in mind Grown Alchemist have launched their new Hand and Body care Twin Sets (www.grownalchemist.com) in their iconic, apothecary-style bottles. The perfect accessory to elevate your bathroom shelves or kitchen sink. .

New Fruit in Town We’ve got some rather juicy news…..there’s a new fruit joining the Glow Recipe Glow Gang, let us introduce you to the brand new Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum (£41, and available exclusively at Cultbeauty.co.uk).

The first of its kind, the Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum is an antioxidant-rich treatment that brightens skin instantly treats and prevents dark spots with a clinically advance complex of Vitamin C. This super silky (but not sticky) gel serum goes on smoothly without a greasy, oily feeling, leaving the skin even, smooth, and glowing. What more could your skin dream of?!

Time to Tan Now the sun has gone away for another year, there is no way of being able to maintain our tans!

Rose & Caramel have a wide range of self-tanning products all containing various undertones which will suit any skin tone. As well as their gorgeous self-tanning products, Rose & Caramel have a wide range of tan remover which has gone viral in recent years. their Purity Excel 3 Minute Tan Remover removes self-tan in as little as 3 minutes – What more could we want?

The Rose & Caramel Premium Self Tan Range is available from www.roseandcaramel.co.uk.

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Amber Glass Pumpkin Vase, £4, Heavenly Homes and Gardens

Pink Swan, £19.99, Very

AFFINITY HOT PICKS

Platinum Sapphire & Diamond Eternity Ring, £1,295.00, www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

Snood Shawl, £180, www.celticandco.com

Camel Boot, £175, Dune London

Gold Double Star Hoops, £75, www.screampretty.com

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

Autumn Oak Wreath, £44.99, Dobbies

Dragonfly Cushion , £50, www.uk.mmlinen.com

Crayola Cashmere Logo Sweater, £175, www.chintiandparker.com

The Halloween Collection, £25, Hotel Chocolat

Trick or Treat Plate, £17.95, Emma Bridgewater

Timex Coca-Cola Watch, £79, www.watchshop.com

Yellow Gold Diamond Earrings, £2,766.46, Cervin Blanc

Winnie-the-Pooh - Once There Was a Bear, £14.99, Amazon

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Managing Migraine Attacks

With migraine sufferers topping over 10 million in the UK alone we caught up with Suzie Sawyer, Clinical Nutritionist (www.feelaliveuk.com) who shares her tips with us:

Migraines are severe, throbbing headaches that may or may not be accompanied by nausea, visual disturbances, and other symptoms. And make no mistake, they cause immense pain, disrupt lives and are debilitating. Migraines can occur anywhere from once a week to once or twice a year, are often caused by a familial pre-disposition and tend to be more common in women. This is partly due to their hormonal fluctuations, especially when oestrogen levels are low pre-menstrual and post menopause. Latest research[1] has found that COVID-19 has caused a surge in migraine attacks for sufferers so these stats are only going the wrong way.

The brain of a person with migraine is always sensitive to change because of the genetic link with this condition. The changes may be in our internal or our external environments; even changes in barometric pressure can be a trigger. It is true to say that the lockdowns have caused many changes in our daily lives due to a number of factors.

Broken Sleep Sleep is vital and when it comes to migraines; a lack of sleep can trigger an attack. Anxiety, stress, and low mood are key contributors to restless sleep, which have all been factors during the pandemic and continue to be problematic.

Effectively we have another major health issue, now

referred to as ‘coronasomnia’. Sleep is vital for our overall health but is especially important for migraine sufferers.

Research is still evolving as to why poor sleep affects migraine sufferers so acutely but it may be down to changes in the central nervous system and to brain neurotransmitter regulation[2].

Snack Attack Mealtimes may also have altered with the temptation to snack, cravings for comfort food and the simplicity of takeaways leading to a change in the balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. This may lead to blood sugar imbalances alongside alcohol and caffeine intake possibly increasing, further exacerbating the issues. Dips in blood sugar levels, often caused by erratic eating patterns, can trigger attacks, therefore, it’s important to eat every three to four hours.

One of the keys to balancing blood sugar levels is to eat protein with every meal and snack. Great suggestions for snacks are some chopped apple with a few nuts and seeds, sliced chicken pieces with oatcakes, or rice cakes with humus and chopped carrots and cucumber. If you’re on the run frequently or away from healthy food, then try to plan ahead and pack what you need to avoid blood sugar dips.

Fitness Fluctuations All the changes to internal and external environmental factors from sleep to fitness fluctuations can impact and irritate the brain of a migraine sufferer. Trying to control

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early evening. It’s important not to miss meals either. Think about the balance between the food groups and try and reduce refined carbohydrates like sugar, cakes, biscuits, and fizzy drinks. Focus on low glycaemic carbs such as whole grains, beans, lentils, and starchy vegetables. You can never eat too many vegetables, whatever the variety! Snacks of nuts, seeds, cherries, olives, chopped veggies and hummus are great choices.

4. Practise Mindfulness, relaxation breathing exercises (both slow inhalations and exhalations), yoga stretches and other techniques like meditation can all help reduce anxiety and improve restorative sleep quality.

them as much as you can is key – it’s all about keeping to a routine and staying on top of your nutritional intake.

Keeping fit and active is especially important for migraine sufferers as it can help to reduce stress and anxiety and maintains good circulation. We know that high levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, can be a major migraine trigger, partly down to how it affects other hormones, especially oestrogen levels. High cortisol reduces oestrogen; hence this can be a major issue for women. When the going gets tough, how much better do we feel just from taking some time out and walking around the block in the fresh air?

Suzie’s quick fixes to control the frequency and severity of migraine attacks post-lockdown and beyond:

1. Stick to a routine sleep pattern by wherever possible going to sleep and waking up at the same time each day – even at weekends. Once awake in the morning, try to get outside into the daylight and fresh air for your exercise even if this is just a simple walk round the block.

2. Exercise little and often, which is often better than an occasional full-on 2-hour workout. Go gently at the start, eat and drink to maintain blood glucose levels and hydration and stretch out gently afterwards. But do remember, that just because you’ve done a half-hour walk, you don’t need to take on board lots of additional food.

3. Eat regularly every 3-4 hours and introduce a bedtime snack, especially if you eat your main meal in the

5. Beware of caffeine and alcohol. It is tempting to have these to relieve our stress or perk us up, but both are not helpful for sleep quality and may result in triggering a migraine attack. This is especially important for women struggling with hormonal fluctuations (around menopause, for example).

6. Supplement your diet with Vitamin D. There’s been so much research and information around the unequivocal need for vitamin D supplements to protect the immune system, especially against Covid19. However, research has also found serum vitamin D levels (25(OH)D), to be low in migraine sufferers. It’s a no brainer for supplementation!

Choose a high potency complete multivitamin and mineral, with good levels of vitamin D for your daily supplementation such as Alive!

Ultra Wholefood Plus or Alive!

Vitamin D3 Gummies with added Calcium and phosphorus – w w w. f e e l a l i v e u k . c o m .

Alternatively try sugar-free Nature’s Way Vitamin D3 High Strength 50µg Chocolate Chewable Tablets. All suitable for vegetarians.

7. Understand your food triggers. Certain foods are known to be problematic for many migraine sufferers, with yeast and wheat being frequent offenders. Food high in histamine including shellfish, dried fruits, fermented foods including yoghurt, unripe bananas, avocados, and aubergines are also to be watched. Elimination diets are often helpful and it maybe you need to consult a nutritionist for further guidance.

8. Don’t upset yourself. Avoid reading, watching, or listening to depressing or anxiety-provoking news stories which can often circulate widely on social media too. Find a trusted news source and only update yourself once a day - preferably not just before going to bed. It is very easy to get overly upset and that will raise stress hormone levels

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which in turn can make migraine attacks more likely.

9. Stay hydrated. Dehydration is often a migraine trigger, and replenishing fluids can restore your body’s balance of water and electrolytes If you find it a struggle to drink enough water, try adding a slice of lemon or lime to make your water taste better. Also, watch your caffeine intake, which can be dehydrating in large amounts.

10. Consider Feverfew. The herb Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) contains a wealth of plant compounds with anti-inflammatory and other properties, including the ability to reduce production of histamine. Research suggests that the parthenolide compounds may also help reduce blood vessel constriction as well as acting on the brain’s serotonin system in a similar way to medications used to treat migraine[3]. By inhibiting the production of inflammatory prostaglandins severity of attacks are reduced. MigraHerb® Feverfew Migraine Relief capsules is a traditional herbal medicine used for the prevention of migraine headaches. www.migraherb.co.uk. Suitable for vegans.

Many migraine triggers are connected to certain foods.

Here’s some foods to consider which are known to reduce migraine attacks and lessen severity as well as those to avoid.

consuming foods that contain lots of water — will help you stay hydrated. Getting enough fluids is important for all aspects of health, including migraine.

Herbal teas - Tea can help with overall hydration, which can prevent or relieve a headache, and depending on the type of tea, there are other benefits as well. Peppermint oil is used as an essential oil for headache or migraine. You could put peppermint oil or fresh peppermint in a cup of hot water and inhale the steam and also drink the liquid. A study published in 2019[4] in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine found that a drop of diluted peppermint oil dripped into the nose was effective in decreasing the intensity of headaches caused by migraine in about 42 percent of participants who tried it. There is some evidence that ginger tea can help with a tension headache. Also, a study published in Phytotherapy Research[5] found that drinking a half teaspoon of powdered ginger in warm water helped reduce migraine severity.

Mushrooms - Adding foods that are high in riboflavin (vitamin B2) such as mushrooms, quinoa, nuts, and eggs help with that. There is research[6] to suggest that riboflavin may help in preventing migraines. Try this Mushroom brunch recipe - it's comforting yet healthy, lowcalorie, and gluten-free too! www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/mushroom-brunch Broccoli - Changes in hormone levels can lead to headaches, especially for women with menstrual migraine or headaches. Falling levels of oestrogen, which occur just before menstruation begins, can trigger an attack. Women who have this type of migraine would benefit from increasing their intake of cruciferous vegetables, because of their effects on oestrogen. Cruciferous vegetables contain hormonally active compounds called phytoestrogens, which have a balancing effect on oestrogen, naturally filling up oestrogen-receptor sites around the body and hopefully preventing migraine attacks.

The foods that trigger migraines will vary from person to person, and some individuals may not have any foodrelated migraine triggers.

However, common foods to AVOID, especially during a migraine attack, including foods that contain the amino acid tyramine are:

Foods and Drinks that HELP Pineapple – Fresh pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain which is has often been cited as natural pain relief. Bromelain has anti-inflammatory properties and has long been used to calm the pain of migraine and headaches.

Watermelon - Watermelon is actually 92 percent water.

Getting plenty of water — both by drinking it and by

• • • • •

Aged cheeses Alcohol, particularly beer and red wine Chocolate Cured meats Food preservatives, such as nitrates, nitrites, MSG, and artificial sweeteners • Smoked fish • Yeast extract

Not eating anything at all can also lead to an increased incidence of migraines. For some people, prolonged hunger and not eating enough are known headache triggers. This may be due to a link between low blood sugar levels and worsening migraine headaches.

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oct21.qxp_Jan 2014 Aff 30/09/2021 22:27 Page 16 Heartbeat Gold Necklace, £75 (Donation - 100% of sales in October), www.withlovedarling.co.uk

Trinny London Pia Lip2Cheek, £25, (Donation - 10%), www.trinnylondon.com

t i r

k n i P

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Breast Cancer Awareness month is upon us, which means lots of lovely products are on sale with a percentage being donated to this great cause, here’s some of our favourites.

Pink Bezel Bracelet, £75, (Donation 100% of sales in October), www.withlovedarling.co.uk Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede Cologne, £102 (Donation - £20 per purchase), www.jomalone.co.uk

Cath Kidston Heart Spot Pyjamas, £60, (Donation - 10% per purchase), www.cathkidston.com

Pink Sweatshirt, £16, ASDA

ghd Platinum Pink Limited Edition, £189, (Donation - £10 per purchase), www.ghdhair.com

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Midlife Madness A couple of months ago we made the decision, fuelled largely by grandsons desire, to get a kitten. Yes, he is incredibly cute, (kitten as well as grandson) and in terms of the kitten, just as well. In terms of pros and cons, the pros, probably, on a good day at least outweigh, the cons BUT that is not to say there are no cons!!!

In line with my determination in all things in life to focus on the positive, let me start with the pros. I can’t think of a nicer way to wake up than with kitty jumping on our bed and purring madly as I stroke him. Even if it is before 6am!!! He is such a loveable bundle of fun, and watching him play and explore, well, not a day goes by when he doesn’t make us smile, or laugh out loud – usually while rushing to his rescue. Like the time he upturned a washing up bowl that trapped him – in fact we wouldn’t have known he was under it if it hadn’t been that our rational brains knew that washing up bowls don’t move around on their own. And even though we’ve only had him a few months to come home after being out and have him coming bounding over to say ‘hi’ is wonderful.

I have however, concluded that kittens are cute for a purpose, some of their other antics could be life threatening (to the kitten) if their human folk weren’t completely besotted with them often because of their cuteness!

Let’s start with fleas. Sadly, when we got him he had them so as responsible kitten parents we got some fleas stuff from vet, he was too small for a tablet so they gave us something to apply on the back of his neck. Didn’t do a bit of good but we didn’t realise at first being sucked in by the view that vets like doctors probably know best – definitely not the case. I had had a few flea bites notice the ‘I’ – I still

don’t understand why I am so very attractive to every biting insect that exists yet hubby isn’t. About a week after the treatment I must have had 100. We started combing him and got gazillions of fleas. Thankfully a couple of weeks later he was old enough for a tablet and though we kept combing out a lot of fleas they were deceased. But isn’t it crazy that I would keep stroking and cuddling this cute bundle of black flea infested fur, well that’s love I guess.

The financial cost of that wasn’t great but the cost of one of his less desirable habits is mounting. He loves wires and to date has bitten through numerous headphone and phone charging wires, fairy light wires, a standard light wire and goodness knows what other as yet undiscovered, wires. I assume he hasn’t had an electric shock but if he has it certainly didn’t teach him anything!

But the trickiest thing is coping with what is turning out to be his adventurous spirit. He is still a tiny thing but has had vaccinations and the ‘snips’ so is ‘allowed’ to go out, but we are far too worried to let him stray beyond the garden. He has however learned to climb the trees in our garden, well up them anyway, down he’s not so good at, but a carefully positioned ladder usually does the trick, yes, we mollycoddle the wee bundle. But he can also get over our back fence into an area of garages- literally over the fence but getting there without vaulting the fence is quite a long distance and he can’t get back over the fence so we end up walking round to rescue him! But just like any other young thing he thinks he knows best so does it again but doesn’t know his way home and like a pair of mugs we keep rescuing him – why because he is cute and we love him. But seriously we need to toughen up or it will be a dogs life for us!!

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Apothecary Aloe Vera Body Lotion, £15, ARRAN Sense of Scotland

Noble Isle Rhubarb Rhubarb Body Hydrator, £26, www.nobleisle.com

Forever Living Aloe Body Lotion, £22.09, www.foreverliving.com

ESPA Bergamont & Jasmine Body Lotion, £21, www.espaskincare.com

Body Beautiful

Autumn and extra layers doesn’t mean you should neglect moisturising your skin, which is why we’ve rounded up our favourite body lotions that smell divine Watermelon Glow Pink Body Cream, £25, www.cultbeauty.co.uk Frangipani & Grapefruit Body Lotion, £22, www.thebathhouseshop.co.uk

Imachar Body Lotion, £16, ARRAN Sense of Scotland

Gingerlilly Body Lotion, £26, www.moltonbrown.co.uk Jo Loves White Rose & Lemon Leaves Body Lotion, £40, www.joloves.com

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FASHION

Sonder

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Keeping up with the Knits Gone are the days of sweaters being just for warmth, they’re now a serious style upgrade to any outfit.

Caramel Stripe Jumper, £55, Sonder Studio

Barbour Jumper, £89.95, www.barbour.com Blue Turtleneck Wool Jumper, £180, Samsoe Samsoe

Cable Knit Jumper, £435, Selfridges

M&Co

M&Co

Embroidered Cable Jumper, £22, F&F

Fluffy Fairisle Jumper, £34.99, M&Co Fringe Sweater, £300, YANA K

Pattern Jumper, £230, Samsoe Samsoe

Stripe Frill Shoulder Jumper, £14, F&F

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Shacket Style If there’s only one item you add to your wardrobe this season it has to be a shacket aka an overshirt. The ultimate layer that effortlessly combines a shirt and a jacket. From lightweight fabrics to warm wooly textiles, we’ve got our favourites right here.

Black Check Shirt, £39.99, New Look

Check Boucle Shacket, £29, F&F

Shacket, £33.99, New Look

TU

Check Shacket, £55, Very Pink Shacket, £29, F&F

Oversized Shacket, £275, Ted Baker

Grey Shacket, £39, F&F

Brown Check Shacket, £13, Primark

Grey Shacket, £20,

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Floral Fancies

Floral dresses are still playing a big part in Autumn wardrobe updates, just think autumnal greens, muted browns and denim blues.

Green Floral Dress, £16.99, TK Maxx

Blue Floral Dress, £34.99, M&Co

Floral High Neck Dress, £25.99, New Look

Floral Shirred Dress, £16, Matalan

Green Floral Dress, £65, Monsoon

Oliver Bonas

Floral Print Midi Dress, £52, Freemans

Blue Floral Dress, £65, Monsoon

Green Floral Midi dress, £39.99, M&Co

Floral Tiered Dress, £20, F&F

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Stomp Away Flat ankle boots are high on the fashion trend for this season, they can even add a little oomph to a floaty dress or skirt.

£89, Office

£45, Marks & Spencer

£30, F&F

£150, Dune

£20, Primark

£89, Office

£150, Timberland

£60, River Island

£155, Dune

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food & drink

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FOODIE NEWS

Family Comforts

Rebecca Wilson’s highly anticipated cookbook Family Comforts is now out. With over 100 comforting meals suitable for all ages, her flavourful recipes are simple to cook, easy to share and perfect for busy families. From breakfast, lunch and dinner, snacks and puds, it’s the cookbook that will keep on serving for decades to come.

Available from Amazon.

Mixology at Home

Award-winning bottled cocktail specialist, World of Zing, has unveiled a fresh new look with an eyecatching new bottle design, as well as the launch of an exciting new flavour, Saffron & Rose Gimlet. Using premium spirits, bespoke bitters and liqueurs, World of Zing makes party planning easy. Whether you are entertaining at home or socialising with friends in the park, cocktail lovers can now grab a bottle from their nearest Majestic Wines (prices from £22) and enjoy bartender quality cocktails without the effort!

Because Cake is Made for Sharing

Clementina Cakes have launched their first vegan and gluten-free collection. The Salted Caramel Chockablock Brownie is the definition of pure indulgence, smothered in heavenly sticky salted caramel, then lovingly handstrewn with cubes of double chocolate chunk cookie and finished with oodles of crisp chocolate chips. delivered straight to your door. The Salted Caramel Chockablock Brownie is £19.99 for a box of 12 available from www.clementinacakes.co.uk.

The Name is Rose. Rock Rose

To celebrate the UK release of the keenly awaited James Bond film, No Time To Die, the Scottish distillery, Dunnet Bay Distillers, has released a new Vesper Martini elegantly combining its Rock Rose Gin Old Tom Pink Grapefruit Edition (£34) and Holy Grass Vodka (£34).

The Vesper Martini cocktail has to be one of the most famous drinks ever ordered.

50ml Rock Rose Old Tom Pink Grapefruit edition 15ml Holy Grass Vodka 10 mls Lillet Blanc white vermouth Place all the ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice and stir with a bar-spoon for 30 seconds.

Strain into a frozen martini glass and garnish with a twist of lemon peel.

We hate to disagree with Mr Bond, but it's stirred not shaken. You should never shake a classic martini, as it can result in over dilution.

Available direct from www.dunnetbaydistillers.co.uk

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Cider-Roasted Chicken with Streaky Bacon, Apples and Potatoes

“This hearty one-pot is ready in under an hour and is perfect on a chilly day” Ingredients

700g potatoes, sliced (skin can be left on) 2 onions, cut into thin wedges 4 thyme sprigs, plus 1 tbsp extra leaves 80ml olive oil, plus extra for drizzling 4 chicken breasts, with winglet attached (200g each), skin on 8 rashers of streaky bacon 2 South African Pink Lady apples, cut into thin wedges, core removed (skin can be left on) 100ml dry apple cider (or apple/pear juice if to be non-alcoholic) 100ml chicken stock 2 tbsp cider vinegar, or to taste

Method

Preheat oven to 200°C, fan oven 180°C, Gas Mark 6. Combine potatoes, onions, thyme sprigs and 60ml oil in a roasting pan, season to taste and roast until starting to colour (15-20 minutes).

Meanwhile, season chicken to taste and scatter with thyme leaves. Wrap each chicken breast in two bacon rashers, place on top of potato mixture with the apples and drizzle with remaining oil.

Add cider and stock to the roasting pan and roast until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender (35-40 minutes). Stir through vinegar, serve hot.

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Plum, Pumpkin and Lentil Korma

“This delicious curry is a rainbow of colours and the perfect dish for an autumnal supper with family or friends”

Ingredients

500g pumpkin or butternut squash, cut into chunks 1 large red onion, chopped 2tbsp olive oil 1tsp cumin seeds 6 South African plums, pitted and sliced 2 x 400g cans green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained 4tsp vegetable stock powder or 1 vegetable stock cube 4tbsp Korma curry paste 200g coconut cream 2tbsp chopped fresh coriander Salt and freshly ground black pepper 4tbsp natural yogurt (dairy-free for vegans) Fresh coriander, to garnish Naan bread, to serve

Method

Preheat the oven to 200°C, Fan Oven 180°C, Gas Mark 6.

Put the chunks of pumpkin or butternut squash and red onion into a roasting tin and add the olive oil, tossing to coat. Roast for 25-30 minutes, until just tender.

Add the cumin seeds and South African plums to the roasting tin and roast for 5 more minutes. Meanwhile, tip the lentils into a large saucepan and stir in the stock powder or crumble in the cube. Add the curry paste, coconut cream and chopped coriander. Heat, stirring occasionally until simmering.

Tip the roasted vegetable mixture into the saucepan and stir gently to mix. Season to taste with salt and pepper and cook for a few minutes. Serve, garnished with natural yogurt and coriander sprigs, accompanied by warm naan bread.

TIP: If you want to keep the curry vegan, be sure to use a dairy-free yogurt for the garnish. If you need an alternative to pumpkin or butternut squash, try sweet potatoes instead.

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Sticky Apple Cake with Drunk Currants “A great treat for a seasonal supper party, a mix of tarte Tatin and good old-fashioned cake in one mouthful”

Ingredients 250 g butter, softened 100 g molasses or dark brown sugar 2 -3 apples, peeled, cored and sliced 150 g light brown soft sugar 2 eggs, lightly beaten 250 g self-raising flour 2 tsp ground cinnamon 0.25 tsp ground allspice Pinch of salt Crème fraîche, to serve For the currants: 100 g caster sugar 150 ml dark rum 100 g currants

Method

Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas 4. Grease a 20cmdiameter cake tin. Melt 50g of the butter in a small saucepan, add the molasses or sugar and stir until dissolved. Gently simmer until rich and dark, then tip into the cake tin. Arrange the apple slices on top.

Beat the light brown sugar and the remaining butter together until light and fluffy, then beat in the eggs, a little at a time. Fold in the flour, spices and salt, and spread over the apples. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until springy to the touch. Leave to cool in the tin.

For the boozy currants, mix the caster sugar and rum in a small pan, add the currants and simmer gently for 10 minutes, then set aside.

To serve, gently warm the cake in a low oven, if you fancy, though it's just as good served cold. Warm the currants over a gentle heat. Turn the cake out on to a plate, slice and serve with a blob of crème fraîche and a spoonful of currants.

RECIPE FROM: Sainsbury’s

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Simply the Best

“We’ve rounded up some of the ‘Best’ bubbles to enjoy this autumn.

All available from Morrisons ‘Best’ wine collection”

The Best Etienne Leclair Brut Champagne An all buttery, toasty and lemony flavour with a lovely floral aroma, perfect for a celebration. £20.00

The Best Prosecco Rose A bespoke blend of wines made from Glera, giving stone fruit flavours, with wines made from Pinot Noir, giving redcurrant fruit and a delicate pale pink colour and aromas of wild strawberry with red berry and white peach flavours. £7.00

The Best Etienne Leclair Brut Rose Champagne A generous red-fruited style champagne, with fine and delicate creamy strawberry mousse flavours. £21.00

The Best Prosecco Valdobbiadene DOCG Made with grapes sourced from two of the best areas, Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, which combine to deliver a superb wine with intensity, finesse, apple blossom aromas with vibrant green apple and pear flavours. £8.00

The Best Cremant De Limoux A blend of Chardonnay gives an elegant style with honey and apple blossom aromas with apple crumble and lemon curd flavours. £12.00

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interiors

Covet House

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Dark & Moody Dark kitchens create a luxurious aesthetic and are easy to match with different interior styles. We have gathered the very best dark kitchen accessories to inspire you.

Hario Buono Kettle, £75, Coffee & Cloth

Sideboard, £2,580, Sweetpea & Willow

Oven Gauntlet, £10, Walton & Co Kitchen Stool, £99, Cult Furniture

Marble Dining Table, POA, Essential Home

Storage Canister, £24, Garden Trading Grey Glass Coffee Cup, £8, Coffee & Cloth

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3 Light Bar, £72, Dar Lighting Group

Black Kitchen Tray, £75, Beaumonde

Marble Pestle and Mortar, £12, Naural History Museum

Raw Dining Table, £1,749, Beaumonde

Metal Dining Chair, £99, Cult Furniture

Circle Placemats (set 4), £19.99, Coffee & Cloth

Triple Recycling Bin, £119, Made.com

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Pumpkin Spice With Autumn and Halloween just around the corner, we've taken a little inspiration to bring you a collection of pumpkins to help you transition into the new season and beyond.

Felt Pumpkins (set of 4), £19.99, We Love Seasons

Ceramic Pumpkin Pot, £9, Heavenly Homes and Gardens

Lights4Fun

Light Up Rattan Pumpkins, £55, Beaumonde

Set of 3 Felt Pumpkins, £14.99, Lights4Fun

Velvet Pumpkin, £10, Home Luxe Co

Linen Pumpkins, £8, Hudson Home

Antique White LED Pumpkin, £19.99, Lights4Fun

Orange Straw Pumpkin, £15.99, We Love Seasons

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Fry’s Footie Corner It seems bizarre to suggest, but this time next year, the country will be preparing for a World Cup! I have to be honest, I don’t quite see how this is going to fit into the schedule and when a tournament as big as the World Cup starts to become a challenge, you know you have a few problems.

I have no issue with the competition going to a new country, although, like so many others, there are reservations about this particular location, however, what I am struggling to get my head round is how this particular World Cup is going to affect major European nations in terms of their domestic calendars.

The proposals I have seen suggest that the Premier League and the Championship, of which we are one of the teams competing in, will break for around a month in November and begin again on Boxing Day.

That is an incredibly long time without domestic football. I know that it is highly unlikely that any of our players at Peterborough United will be involved in the World Cup, so what do we do? Do we just give the players some time off?

Do they do another pre-season? How do you keep your players fit?

There are so many unanswered questions. Then you put yourselves in the shoes of Premier League clubs. Say England get to the final against Brazil. Do the players just return to the clubs straight after the final and are expected to be at peak performance for a Boxing Day fixture?

How do the Premier League clubs prepare for those fixtures with players halfway round the world? It just doesn’t make any sense to me. And then you hear that Arsene Wenger wants a World Cup every two years. I am not a fan of that myself and I love football!

Playing in a World Cup is the pinnacle of any players’ career, but I feel that is because it is over four years – you work towards it. Every two years, I think just belittles it a little bit. You look forward to a major competition like that, just like the Olympics.

It will be interesting to see how that pans out over the next few months and we look forward to seeing more detail about how the calendar is going to look.

Barry Fry

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Puff Up

Keep it stylish and warm in a men's puffer jacket. Style with jeans and trainers for a casual but cool look or opt for an all-black outfit for a sleek appearance.

£89.95, Joules

£30, Primark

£100, Jack Wolfskin

Regatta

£119, Barbour International

£200, The North Face

£825, Canada Goose

£265, Ralph Lauren

£319, BOSS

£260, GANT

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TRAVEL

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Follow the Sunshine to Marrakech this Winter with

Riad Elegancia

Why wait until next summer for the sun to shine when you can follow it to Marrakech this winter? Just over three hours’ flight from the UK, or a day and a half by land for the slow traveller, discover the enchanting “Red City” with Riad Elegancia, one of the most authentic riad experiences in the city.

Riad Elegancia is the latest addition to Cenizaro Hotels & Resorts’ luxury hotel portfolio. This charming 11-room property offers all the modern touches of a five-star, boutique hotel whilst remaining loyal to its ArabAndalusian architectural roots. Standout features include a marble hammam and two treatment rooms, a high-tech gym, a heated rooftop pool, and hand-carved or painted ceilings in each en-suite bedroom. Located in the heart of the Medina, it’s a short walk from famous landmarks like the Bab Doukkala mosque and Jemaa el-Fna square.

Riad Elegancia’s three-night ‘Discover Marrakech’ package takes guests on an insider’s tour of this historic city with a knowledgeable and friendly guide.

Walk alongside Marrakech’s towering pink walls in the Medina and slip through winding alleyways; sit back in a horse-drawn carriage as you breathe in heady wafts of orange blossom and jasmine in the air; marvel at pyramids of rainbow spices while you shop for textiles and trinkets in the souks; visit the city’s famed gardens and architectural wonders which inspired many artists including fashion royalty like Yves Saint Laurent.

At the end of each day, head back for some peace and quiet at Riad Elegancia. Take a dip in the rooftop pool or jacuzzi, or watch the sun go down with a refreshing cocktail. Book in for a traditional hammam and massage experience to

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relax and restore you, before dining under the stars on the rooftop. Taste delicious Moroccan food prepared by the riad’s resident ‘Tabakha’ (Moroccan chef) who combines Moroccan-inspired flavours with a hint of Mediterranean influences.

The ‘Discover Marrakech’ package at Riad Elegancia costs from 590 Euros for three nights based on two people sharing a Classic room on a B&B basis, plus the following excursions: •. Day 1 – A visit to the souks and ancient monuments of the Medina • Day 2 – A tour of the famous gardens of Marrakech including Marjorelle, Menara, and Agdal, by horse-drawn carriage • Day 3 – A visit to the city’s opulent palaces, riads and homes for a sense of history Rooftop dinner and hammam experience are at an additional cost.

For more information visit www.riadelegancia.com

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New Travel Brand that Benefits the Soul and the Planet Bringing travel, nature, and wellbeing together, Yonder is a global platform offering sustainable rural holidays - in the UK and overseas - that bring nature, travel, and wellbeing together.

Supporting rural tourism around the world by putting people in touch with nature. It is a global platform offering responsible, authentic, nature-rich stays and experiences that inspire discovery, comfort, joy, curiosity, surprise, and importantly, respect for nature and for the people who steward it.

Established in the US in 2018 and expanding across Europe, Yonder was founded on the principles of connection, community and coexistence between people and nature. Its mission is to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world, a greater sense of responsibility to protect it, and to create a positive shift that has the potential to heal both the planet and humankind.

Andy Woodward, Executive Director Yonder UK, says: “From humble beginnings in the US, Yonder has experienced phenomenal growth as we become

increasingly aware of the positive impact of connecting with nature and of how we can play our part in protecting and enhancing it. At Yonder, it is as much about the people as the properties; we actively welcome the positive role Stewards and guests alike can play in caring for the places they reside in or visit.”

Helen Rudge is a Yonder Steward of The Hideaway Huts in The South Tyne Valley close to Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland, and provides cosy “grande roulette” shepherd’s huts for self-catering stays.

Helen says: “Yonder’s ethos perfectly aligns with my own values around sustainability, working with nature, and supporting the land. I am originally from a farming background and have run Stangegate Hideaways for over 10 years, creating The Hideaway Huts five years ago. The huts are set in wild-flower meadows, providing a haven for wildlife, and offering guests fabulous views across The Tyne Valley. We are also developing a wild-life pond on the site to compliment the meadow.

“We’ve received rave reviews from guests staying in this

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area of rural Northumberland; people have felt a real connection to the outside world and enjoyed unique experiences such as star gazing and walking on Hadrian’s Wall.

Spending time in nature can be awe-inspiring yet humbling, it reminds us that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves, keeping us grounded and curious. Yonder has played a key role in helping more people experience the power of nature.”

Suzy Reading, Yonder Wellbeing Expert, says: “The importance of nature cannot be underestimated when it comes to the positive influence it can have on our wellbeing, and this is a concept Yonder has wholly embraced.

A Yonder experience is authentic, local, wholesome, enriching, and restorative; it provides everything we need to restore and rejuvenate our minds and bodies.”

Yonder currently boasts over 7,500 properties across the UK and Republic of Ireland, accommodating between 2 and 24 guests.

Each with its own unique charm, accommodation ranges from cosy cottages, to beautifully appointed yurts, shepherd huts or luxury glamping pods. Guests can choose to escape to the countryside, hills or mountains, forests and woodlands, vineyards, rural villages, or a waterside setting.

Providing the ideal holiday solution for those looking to spend quality downtime, reconnect with family or friends, enjoy a digital detox, relieve stress or anxiety, experience the positive impact of nature, learn a new skill, or acquire new knowledge, and create lasting memories… All with the peace of mind that they are doing so responsibly, sustainably, and are not only protecting the environment, but benefitting it.

The Yonder team carefully vets and selects properties, Stewards, and activities to ensure each meet stringent sustainable goals. Many of the Yonder Stewards demonstrate a commitment beyond simply hosting guests.

Yonder's mission is to inspire all Stewards to be more regenerative in their approach; not just sustaining, but actively restoring and regenerating their local ecosystems and supporting their communities.

Further bolstering its sustainable credentials, Yonder is a member of the 1% for the Planet and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. It is also in the process of achieving Certified B Corporation status, helping to drive a global movement using business as a force for good.

To find out more, visit: www.yonder.com.

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Pan Pacific London Is Now Open Pan Pacific London takes innovation and understated luxury to new heights. This haven in the heart of the City fuses together architecture, contemporary design, boundary-pushing wellbeing, and leading destination restaurants and bars, with sincere Singaporean hospitality to create a lifestyle destination in London.

Location Located in Liverpool Street, Pan Pacific London is on the doorstep of world-renowned locations yet also home to its own inner world.

Sitting proudly in the landmark tower at One Bishopsgate Plaza, the hotel is situated near many of the City’s finest attractions including high-end shopping in Spitalfields, the Barbican cultural hub, and the stylish Shoreditch neighbourhood.

Epitomising the juxtaposition of old and new London architecture, Bishopsgate Plaza encapsulates not only a 43-storey bronze tower encompassing Pan Pacific London and private Sky Residence apartments, but also the 144-year old Devonshire House featuring designer shops, a destination restaurant and a contemporary cocktail bar. A landscaped public plaza seamlessly connects these two cultural hubs together, making it a 24-hour destination for meeting, living, working and discovering.

Design The hotel, including its accommodations, event spaces and public areas, has been created by esteemed design duo Yabu Pushelberg, who bring their signature style to the hotel sparked by the fusion of south-east Asian vibrancy and the refined elegance of traditional British design. A unique sanctuary in the middle of The City of London, modern lines and artistic flair run throughout the hotel’s public spaces whilst guest rooms offer a sense of peace and calm with curved walls and neutral colour palettes.

Guest Rooms and Suites Led by a team of seasoned industry veterans, Pan Pacific Hotels Group’s acclaimed attention to detail and a proactive approach to environmental sustainability and wellness can be seen in the 237guest rooms and suites which offer some of London’s finest accommodation. The signature Pan Pacific Suite, perched on the 19th floor, is the essence of luxury with spectacular views of city landmark, The Gherkin.

Guest rooms have been designed as retreats from the bustling city and feature a lighter colour palette offering peace and tranquillity

to the private spaces while the omission of 90-degree angles in bedrooms and washrooms creates a gentle embrace where guests can seek rest and comfort. Custom headboards act as personalised art pieces, adding a layer of calm through the depiction of oak, elder, elm and maple trees while accessories introduce small bursts of colour and organic forms to reinforce the tonal and tranquil nature of each guest room.

Diptyque amenities, a hot and cold minibar, and a curated library of books are just a few of the touches which ensure guests’ comfort.

For ultimate wellbeing, an innovative ChiliSleep™ Ooler Sleep Cooling System to aid better sleep via temperature regulation is available upon request, and rooms come complete with yoga mats and on demand virtual yoga sessions, as well as health-benefiting botanical planting.

Food & Beverage The hospitality offering at Pan Pacific London is unparalleled, with each of its five venues incorporating unique elements of the flavour, diversity and elegance of modern Singapore. Led by multi awardwinning Executive Chef Lorraine Sinclair and renowned Executive Pastry Chef Cherish Finden, the hotel’s Straits Kitchen restaurant, Ginger Lily bar and The Orchid Lounge drawing room delights guests with new and innovative flavours. The team are working closely with British producers, Nurtured in Norfolk, to grow their own high quality Asian ingredients as well as sourcing local produce to help minimise the carbon footprint whilst bringing authentic flavours to the table.

Located at the top of the lobby’s spiral staircase, Straits Kitchen is an ode to Southeast Asia both through design and cuisine.

Embracing a respectful approach to cooking inspired by heritage recipes, the menu at Straits Kitchen has been carefully crafted by the hotel’s Executive Chef Lorraine Sinclair working alongside Singaporean Group Executive Chef Tony Khoo and showcases the melting pot of cuisines represented in multicultural Singapore.

Quirky, bold and bright, Straits Kitchen stands as a gem of the hotel, featuring two private dining spaces, custom dining tables and a custom wine-cabinet-as-art. Custom murals have been brought to life by En Viu which further enforce the restaurant’s Eastern influence, depicting Asian botanicals mirroring the unique flavours on the menu. The floor-to-ceiling glass windows offer guests unparalleled views of The City.

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Located on the first floor, The Orchid Lounge offers a uniquely sumptuous and serene Afternoon Tea from award-winning Executive Pastry Chef Cherish Finden. Cherish brings her unique flair for Asian flavours to the traditional British tea with the Singaporean-inspired Kopi Tiam, celebrating bao, dim sum and choux. The afternoon tea is accompanied by exclusive tea blends from the Rare Tea Company as well as Champagnes and world-renowned English Sparkling Wines, further supporting the best of British produce.

Bottling the buzz and excitement of Singaporean bar culture for London, Ginger Lily boasts an extensive Champagne list from over 200 houses, the largest list of by-the-glass bubbles in the City of London, and also house over 150 rums. The carefully curated cocktail menu showcases an eclectic selection of signature classics inspired by Singaporean flavours and culture.

Events Spaces Pan Pacific London includes the most technologically advanced and largest ballroom in the area, accommodating up to 400 guests. The hotel also features an Event Emporium alongside a further nine innovative and flexible meeting and events venues, with a dedicated in-house events management team plus state-of-the-art technology, superfast WiFi and 5G receivers.

The extensive 464sqm smart Pacific Ballroom has direct access from Bishopsgate Plaza via a glass escalator and elevator as well as direct access via the hotel. A custom Lasvit chandelier designed by Yabu Pushelberg hangs sumptuously above the expansive ballroom and is composed of floating crystal orbs creating a starry night’s sky under which any occasion may be celebrated.

Wellbeing The stylish design aesthetic combines with an unmatched wellness programme to offer the most innovative health and wellbeing haven in the capital. Integrating fitness, nutrition, treatments and mindfulness, the hotel is one of the first in London to include an impressive 1,083m² floor dedicated to holistic wellness, featuring an 18.5m infinity pool and the latest equipment from TecnoBody®, including the D-Wall and conditioning gym, making it one of the most technologically advanced facilities showcased by any hotel gym in the UK.

In addition to high-performance training, aqua fitness in the hotel’s infinity pool is a unique addition to the wellbeing floor, along with mindful workshops and sustainable nutrition. Spa treatments infuse Western science and clinical research with South East Asian tradition of clean beauty focusing on resultdriven relaxation techniques, pregnancy treatments, and personal grooming rituals. As part of the programming, guests may choose to enjoy Pan Pacific London’s in-room Wellbeing Experience as part of the integrative approach, comprising a wide range of equipment selection and digital content.

Pan Pacific London offers a serene haven away from the hustle and bustle, with every element carefully crafted and tailored to offer one of London’s most complete contemporary and luxury hotel experiences. The panelled wood screens which wrap the ground floor reception have been carried up and throughout the wellbeing floor to create continuity. Tall ceilings lend an inviting feel to the space whilst the spectacular poolside fireplace and sofas create a homely feeling making guests want to relax and linger.

BOOK IT

Opening offer room rates start from £325 per night, room only.

For more information or reservations please visit: www.panpacificlondon.com.

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The Langham, Jakarta is now Open The hotel’s opening offer “Celebration” will allow guests to experience the best of the hotel. The package starts at IDR3,400,000++ per night and includes an overnight stay in a beautifully appointed room with early check-in and late check-out privileges, a IDR500,000++ dining gift at the stand-out restaurant Tom’s or at Alice. The special offer features breakfast at Tom’s at Level 62 with a stunning sunrise panoramic view across Jakarta.

Guests are welcomed by a 10-metre-high lobby with magnificent interior detailing and chandeliers by Lasvit, the renowned creators of breathtaking bespoke light installations. The Langham, Jakarta features exceptional celebrity restaurant partnerships that include Tom’s by Tom Aikens, the culinary maestro who has guided his restaurants to accolades by the Michelin Guide, and T’ang Court, inspired by its Three Michelin Starred Cantonese restaurant namesake at The Langham, Hong Kong, will make its debut into Southeast Asia.

Afternoon tea aficionados may bask at the beautiful environs at Alice, the grand dining emporium; those familiar with the Artesian at The Langham, London –

recognized as the World’s Best Bar for several years – will delight in knowing that its latest outpost will be at the dazzling rooftop of The Langham, Jakarta where the best views of the sunsets can be enjoyed with signature cocktails.

Featuring 223 guest rooms including the splendid and elegantly appointed 336-square metre Presidential Suite, The Langham is strategically located within the prestigious new complex of District 8 at SCBD (Sudirman Central Business District) with easy access and close proximity to the city’s most important financial, cultural and entertainment centres.

The Langham Club lounge on the hotel’s 59th floor will be a private and luxurious haven for guests who prefer a discerning level of comfort with panoramic and unobstructed views of Jakarta City. There is a writer’s corner, a reading library and private arrival and departure facilities with dedicated butlers for personalized service.

Chuan Spa provides treatments inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) philosophies in a serene, meditative setting. The 670 square metre (7,211 square

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foot) spa will offer private treatment rooms as well as a fully-equipped fitness centre and Jakarta’s highest indoor infinity pool with spectacular views of the city.

The Langham, Jakarta is the new iconic venue for social events, weddings, high-level conferences and luxury product launches. Featuring more than 2,100 square metres of flexible space, including a magnificent 688 square metre ballroom and a beautiful outdoor garden, there are an additional eleven meeting rooms that can be configured for events of different sizes.

Guests who wish to stay or hold their event at The Langham, Jakarta Telephone +62 21 2708 7888 Email: tljkt.reservation@langhamhotels.com or visit: www.langhamhotels.com/en/langham/jakarta/

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Magic, Mischief and Carefully Controlled Mayhem…

As hit West End show Magic Goes Wrong embarks on a national tour, legendary magicians Penn and Teller reveal how they found themselves working with the team behind The Play That Goes Wrong, and how they came to cast their spell on audiences...

Over five decades, legendary magicians Penn & Teller have been sawing the magic rulebook in half. Their shows combine bamboozling illusions with dark comedy, their magic often seems to go horribly wrong, and they have become notorious for repeatedly revealing to the audience exactly how their tricks are done - which has long prevented them from being members of the Magic Circle.

Not that they mind. In fact, they revel in the illusion of chaos: one of their stage shows began with a giant fridge falling on the pair, apparently crushing them.

So, when they announced in 2019 that they were teaming up with Mischief, the British team behind theatre smash hits The Play That Goes Wrong, Peter Pan Goes Wrong and The Comedy About a Bank Robbery, as well as the BBC One TV series The Goes Wrong Show, it seemed like a perfect match. The result was Magic Goes Wrong, which opened in the West End to rave reviews and is now casting its spell on audiences across the UK. In Penn & Teller's live shows, Penn Jillette takes the role of motormouth patter-merchant, while Teller (that one word is now his legal name) remains silent as they perform various breathtaking illusions. Many of their acts have become iconic - check out the cup and ball trick on YouTube, where Penn reveals exactly how the trick is done, and still manages to make it dazzling - and many involve comic danger, gore and violence. In one trick they aim guns at each other’s face, fire and catch the bullets in their teeth.

A few years ago they were performing in London, and Penn’s family decided they wanted to see a show in the West End. “I don't go to comedy theatre at all,” says Penn.

“I like theatre to be deadly dull, slow and depressing. But my wife and children picked The Play That Goes Wrong. I realized that not only was my family laughing harder than I've ever seen them, but I was too.” He immediately told Teller to book a ticket.

Despite being known for his onstage silence, it was Teller who started discussions with Jonathan Sayer, Henry Shields and Henry Lewis, the artistic directors of Mischief. “I am more shy than Teller so it never crossed my mind to go backstage,” Penn jokes, “but Teller took himself backstage and said, ‘hey I'm a star!’”

Teller insists it wasn’t quite like that: “As I was sitting in my seat, someone tapped me on the shoulder and said, ‘You're Teller, aren't you? The cast wants to give you free ice cream.’

So afterwards I went backstage to thank the cast and compliment them, because it really was one of the finest shows I've ever seen.”

What’s more, Penn had mentioned to Teller that the show featured a magic trick. “He told me there's a moment where a person reappears in a grandfather clock, and it’s going to fool you,” Teller explains. “And he was right, it absolutely fooled me. So, I said to the Mischief guys, ‘You do stuff that is so much like magic, we should do something together sometime’.”

A few months later, all five of them were eating homemade pancakes at Teller’s Las Vegas house and plotting a brandnew show.

After a few sessions, the show had come together. But, by

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adding the trademark Goes Wrong approach, all the tricks in the show had to work on two levels: there had to be the trick that goes wrong, and then the trick that actually dazzles the audience. So how did they devise these illusions?

Teller explains that it’s often quite a laborious process. “You get an idea, which is usually quite grand, then you find that it's impossible, and you revise it over and over again until it works. There's a trick in the show where one of the cast members gets accidentally sawed in half by a buzzsaw. That was more than a year of work. Part of the trick involves blood, but if you just show the blood on stage it looks boring, it has no impact at all. So a big part of the buzzsaw trick for us was developing it in such a way that when the blood came, it would be sprayed up against a huge backdrop where you could truly enjoy the bright red colour.”

Speaking of blood and buzzsaws, Magic Goes Wrong - which takes the form of a disastrous fundraising benefit - is definitely more comically gory than Mischief’s previous work. Was that Penn and Teller’s influence?

“Guilty,” says Penn with a huge grin.

“I'm afraid it might have something to do with us,” Teller adds. “We think that gore is essentially funny. It's really hard to pull off serious gore in the theatre because people tend to want to laugh. They know that it's fake, but they see that it looks real. And that's very much like a magic trick.”

That clash - of instinct and intellect - is what Penn & Teller's work thrives on. “What you want to do is get the visceral and the intellectual to collide as fast as possible,” says Penn. “It's like being on a rollercoaster: I'm safe, no I'm not, I'm safe, no I'm not. Those two parts of your body are fighting.”

But despite the fact that Mischief and Penn & Teller have built their careers on making it look like everything is going horrifically wrong, they all insist that mishaps are incredibly rare in real life. “While we're rehearsing we might get a minor cut or bruise,” Teller says. “But we don't ever allow the possibility of something going seriously wrong because if we did, we wouldn't have been working successfully for 46 years.”

For Penn, what makes Magic Goes Wrong seem so right is the combination of magic and comedy. “It's a full magic show and a full comedy show happening at the same time.”

Teller explains that there is a deeper, more unexpected layer to the show: “What's interesting to me is how well the show reflects the actual culture of the magic world. It’s mostly populated by well meaning, very nice amateurs. And

there is a great, heart-tugging beauty about that to me. The poignancy of the magic trick that isn't quite achieved, where your aspirations are to behave in a godlike manner, and instead you're slapped in the face by reality - I think that's such a beautiful thing. That's what this show is about.

It has all these laughs and all these wild crazy moments, but when it lands at the end, it's about the sweetness of friends who love magic.”

Magic Goes wrong is appearing at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday 19th to Saturday 23rd October 2021, 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

Libra (23 September – 22 October) You come up with lots of new ideas that you’re enthusiastic about, are excited by mental projects, and share all of the information that you have. You like talking with others and can be a bit chatty. You can finish a project that helps further you along your career path, achieve a goal, or give up on a goal. The focus is on having fun, enjoying hobbies and pleasurable pastimes, children and love.

Favourable Dates: October 6, 9, 15, 18, 24, 27 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Blue

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Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) You can be presented with a new opportunity to advance further in your career, achieve a goal, are in the spotlight for something you’ve done, and feel good about the direction you’re going in. Your intuition is strong, so listen to what your gut is trying to tell you. Your deep sensitivity presents you with valuable and illuminating intuitions, especially regarding those you care for.

Favourable Dates: October 1, 5, 10, 14, 19, 23 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) You may find that you are now able to walk a new path that you have been preparing for. Some of you may come into new opportunities for travel and movement while others will find that such doors will close and new ones will have to be opened. Pragmatic and goal-oriented, you soon learn how to get things done, for you aspire to positions of power and authority and admire others who attain such positions. Favourable Dates: October 1, 5, 10, 14, 19, 23 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue Capricorn (22 December – 19 January) You can begin a research project, are presented with an opportunity to do something that benefits you and other people. You’re better able to express how you feel emotionally through your words, but you may lack objectivity. Home and family ties will be significant in your life and developing a secure, comfortable home environment will be a boon to your state of mind, irrespective of your marital state.

Favourable Dates: October 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow Aquarius (20 January – 18 February) This month is encouraging you to see past your current concerns and to look into the future knowing your choices now will impact others or yourself at a later date. Your nearest and dearest or those close to you will need attention. There could be strong emotional concerns. You might find partnership responsibilities or demands wearing at this time. You can find other people to be mentally draining and need time alone to recover.

Favourable Dates: October 3, 7, 12, 15, 21, 25 Favourable Colours: Blue & Yellow

Pisces (19 February – 20 March) You may derive income from unusual sources or from suggestions or ideas from those with whom you would not normally associate. If single, you may be on a high this month with lots of opportunities for romance in the circle of friends. Surprising developments or unexpected additions to the circle may add spice to the already strong flavour. You feel good about your future, your hopes and your dreams, and are a little idealistic.

Favourable Dates: October 2, 7, 11, 16, 20, 25 Favourable Colours: White & Green

Aries (21 March – 19 April) You’re likely to enjoy a peaceful and stress-free month. All aspects of your life have the potential to effortlessly fall into place, with seemingly little effort from you. This period is encouraging a time of personal growth through sharing of love and affections. You can work well on

creative projects now and find inspiration everywhere.

You’re dramatic when you converse, and you command attention for what you say, your ideas, and your thoughts.

Favourable Dates: October 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26 Favourable Colours: Red & Green Taurus (20 April – 20 May) You get organized, keep everything in its place, and can focus on the details. You do well with your work now, and can have an important conversation about your work, or more communications at work. If single, you can meet lots of new people but keep it casual, if in a relationship, you try to make it feel like it did when you first got together.

Favourable Dates: October 1, 4, 10, 13, 19, 22 Favourable Colours: Red & Grey

Gemini (21 May – 20 June) You can be presented with a new money-making opportunity, start a second job, side gig for extra cash, or turn a hobby into a money-making venture. You can rework your budget so you have more leftover, and you feel more confident in yourself. Emotionally, you’re even and calm. Singles could find this a time when love really does walk into your life or if in a relationship you finally realise how much someone means to you.

Favourable Dates: October 1, 3, 10, 12, 19, 21 Favourable Colours: White & Green

Cancer (21 June – 22 July) You are easily engrossed by special subjects and projects this month, and eagerly throw yourself into learning and producing. You can have more communications at or about your work and can get through the grunt work with ease.

You get along well with others, and can begin a new relationship, personal or professional. The need for challenges, whether these are mental or physical, becomes palpable from the 16th forward.

Favourable Dates: October 3, 9, 12, 18, 21, 27 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Brown

Leo (23 July – 22 August) This month could see a shift in your financial circumstances. The financial results won’t necessarily be immediate, but at the very least, you’ll lay the groundwork for a more prosperous future. A loan or other form of support is on the agenda by the last week of the month.

You need to push forward with important projects, and if it means getting a little help, the cosmos is shining on you.

Favourable Dates: October 1, 4, 10, 13, 19, 22 F Favourable Colours: White & Blue Virgo (23 August – 22 September) You will embark on a new project or you’ll get a promotion at work. There may be a need to let go of something or someone at this time, but it’s also a good period for gaining new information that helps you to move forward, including great advice, so stay connected and listen attentively. You may find yourself wanting to explore other cultures more or do things to broaden your way of thinking.

Favourable Dates: October 1, 3, 10, 12, 19, 21 Favourable Colours: Red & Blue

manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

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Weekend Starts Here....

The Burning by Jonathan & Jesse Kellerman When a wealthy man is found murdered in his hilltop home, Deputy Coroner Clay Edison is shocked to discover a link to his own brother Luke on the scene.

Luke is fresh out of prison and struggling to stay on the straight and narrow. But surely he's not a killer?

When Luke goes missing, the case becomes even more fraught for Clay. He knows that the conflict between family and the truth could take him down the wrong path.

Is his brother capable of murder? Or could he be a victim too?

No Time to Die (Film) In No Time To Die, Bond has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica. His peace is short-lived when his old friend Felix Leiter from the CIA turns up asking for help.

The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology.

Release Date: 30th September

Six Minutes to Midnight (DVD) In the mere days before the start of World War Two, Thomas Miller accepts a teaching position at a finishing school in England. His students consist of the daughters of the most high-ranking German officers and officials, and the most influential families in Nazi Germany. In this bubble, the tension between England and Nazi Germany is swept under the rug, and the girls are taught and brought up to be prepared members of Hitler's League of German Girls. With war on the horizon, Miller attempts to infiltrate the school and find out what is going on behind closed doors.

Release Date: 5th October

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