American in Britain Autumn 2023

Helen Elliott

Ben Everson

Puffins (see

Photo credit: Alastair Humphreys

EATING OUT

Launceston Place

1a Launceston Place, London, W8 5RL

Hidden away, and slightly off the beaten track, in a back street surrounded by terraced houses, sits Launceston Place, a three AA Rosetted restaurant which has undergone a number of changes over the years. In the 1980’s it was a firm favourite of Princess Diana, probably due to its private location away from prying eyes, and it was in 2017 that Ben Murphy joined as Head Chef, and in 2021 was promoted further to Chef Patron. Ben started his career under Pierre Koffmann at his restaurant at the Berkeley, and he remains a mentor to this day, which has helped shape Ben’s distinctive style of cooking.

In the early days of his tenure at Launceston Place the dining experience was probably as well known for a number of gimmicks, including emojis on the menu and portions of chips arriving in miniature shopping trolleys, as it was for the quality of the food. I am delighted to say that now the food is truly the star, but there is still a hint of a playfulness, but the play is now draughts, and much more understated!

The reference to draughts is that the menu is in the form of a draughts board, with 9 spaces where the diner can cover up the dishes they do not want to order, leaving those you do uncovered. The concept was based on Chef Ben’s grandmother Phyllis, as he used to play the game with her, and gives a nice personal touch to the menu.

The restaurant has high ceilings and plush crisp white tableclothed tables, and the mint blue walls are adorned with abstract paintings giving a real homely and relaxed feel, which perfectly complements the food and attentive service. On the draughts board there are 3 starters, 3 mains and 3 desserts, and the first move is to select 3 dishes for £75.

The diner can choose any combination, so if you have a particularly sweet tooth, you can select 3 desserts, if that is what you want! The other option is the Tasting Menu, where you have 6 courses for £99.

Either way, your meal starts with a few amuse bouches to get you under way, the first of which was a trio of a Smoked Haddock Tube, a Beef Tartare Taco and Tomato Stem Water. The smoked haddock cream was light and really held that wonderful fishy taste, all surrounded by the crispy tube. The beef tartare had just enough horseradish to give it that zing, and the tomato stem water, with a hint of thyme, was a clever dish with a fresh and delicate taste. Following this was a second amuse bouche of a grilled pink Lamb Rib, that was served with a lightly spiced vibrant salsa verde. Vegetarians don’t worry, you are well catered for here as well, with the lamb substituted by a smoky aubergine. Accompanying these lovely starters was a generous chunk of freshly baked sourdough served with two wonderful butters, the first a slightly piquant red pepper offering, which is a firm favourite with regulars, and the second, an almost pâté like brown butter with onion dust.

The food is clever and innovative, worthy of a Head Chef who has been crowned National Chef of the Year 2022, by the Craft Guild of Chefs.

Our next course was ‘Egg & Soldiers’ which I haven’t had since I was a child. This was a massive cut above the eggy soldiers I used to have, as it is actually a scooped out egg shell that is filled with a smooth chicken liver parfait, and to keep the egg theme, topped with a little scrambled egg mousse accompanied by a moreish crispy ‘soldier’, totally indulgent, and wonderful theatre, as the ‘egg’ is served in an egg holder shaped like a chicken’s foot!

My next choice was the Cod, which was fresh and crisp and covered by thin strips

of courgette and lemon, providing colour as well as tart and crunch to the fleshy cod. My wife chose the Sea Bass Ceviche with Granny Smith apple and calamansi (a Philippine lime), and again the sharpness of the calamansi and the slight sweetness of the Granny Smith took the mild and delicate sea bass flavour to a new level.

My Veal Loin was perfectly cooked, being a rich pink, and was accompanied by a potato gratin which had been infused by vinegar. The infusion was a clever idea, but unfortunately for me the strength of the infused vinegar, whilst making the gratin very tasty, was slightly too dominant a flavour and slightly detracted from the richness of the veal loin and cheek. Our other choice was the Mushroom Tart, which was bursting with a variety of mushrooms and flavours and covered a light sep mousse and a runny egg.

The desserts are equally innovative and the attention to detail on the lemon dessert made it not just taste spectacular, it looked spectacular as well, with the attention to detail such that the dessert didn’t just have the shape of a lemon it even had the skin texture!

The wine list is extensive and will cater for every taste, and do ask the sommelier for advice, as he selected a few glasses of wine we would never have thought would go with our dishes, but complemented them perfectly and were delicious.

This restaurant ticks every box with respect to all aspects of a diner’s experience. The service is great, with knowledgeable staff who are clearly invested in the restaurant and its diners, but thankfully the food is the jewel in the crown here, and I would be very surprised if London doesn’t have another Michelin starred restaurant very soon, and it would be richly deserved.

www.launcestonplace-restaurant.co.uk

Straits Kitchen

80 Houndsditch, London, EC3A 7AB

The area around Liverpool Street has come a long way since I used to work near there about 10 years ago, and a number of stylish restaurants, bars and hotels have sprung up, and one of the more luxurious is the Pan Pacific Hotel, London, where the all-day dining Straits Kitchen is located, which in their own words ‘showcases the melting pot of cuisines represented in multicultural Singapore’.

The Pan Pacific Hotel is luxury with a capital L, and its signature restaurant, Straits Kitchen, also oozes class and sophistication. On entering the hotel, you walk up a curved wooden staircase to the first floor on which the restaurant and bar are located, and it was in the bar that we started our meal with a glass of something cold (and alcoholic!), whilst looking through the floor to ceiling windows at the hustle and bustle of the city and its workers wending their way home. The atmosphere is relaxed and serene and the décor is classy, but minimalistic, which enables the food to be the star of this show, and provides a real contrast to the fervent activity outside.

Straits Kitchen’s raison d’etre is to take its diners on a journey through the rich food culture of South East Asia and bring the eclectic tastes and flavours of Singapore’s local dishes to their door, and it does that in style. Throughout the day, they offer breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, and a number of set menus.

To start we chose the Strait’s Kitchen Platter (£28), that provides a selection of their starters including Morel Golden Cups, Chilli Prawns, Aromatic Duck

Rolls and Asian Tamarind Black Cod. The presentation is impeccable, as you would expect, and matched the tastes on the plate. The duck was rich and succulent and surrounded in crispy batter, the golden cups had an abundance of the nutty meatiness of the morels, and the chilli prawns were delightfully sticky (although I would suggest they provide wet wipes with them). To go with these my wife also selected 3 pieces of Chicken Satay (£15,) which were crispy on the outside and moist on the inside and were accompanied by an indulgent peanut sauce.

For the mains options, chef Jun offers a selection of his special dishes made from some of the finest ingredients, including Lobster, Crab and Wagyu Beef, and a few are again delightfully messy to eat, which is a first for me in such a plush restaurant, but are authentic to the way they would be eaten in Singapore, and it took me back to a much earlier time in my life when I first tried chilli crab on Singapore’s Orchard Road. Despite these happy memories my eyes were tempted by the Rendang Jacob’s Ladder (£29) and my wife’s by the Spicy King Prawns (£35), accompanied by Char Kway Teow (£25) and some Hainanese Chicken Rice (£6).

Although not the most attractive dish I have ever been served, the Rendang Jacob’s Ladder tasted amazing. To create such a rich and moreish dish, the beef has to be slow cooked and braised in some coconut milk, until all of the liquid has evaporated, allowing the beef to absorb all the flavour, and boy did this dish pack flavour. The King Prawns were large and meaty and perfectly cooked with a good heat, which was offset by the sweet pineapple salsa. These mains were ably supported by the Char Kway Teow, consisting of flat rice noodles packed with Chinese vegetables, prawns, Chinese pork sausage and crunchy scallions, and the Hainanese Chicken Rice, which is considered one of the national dishes of Singapore, as it became popular with the working class, as by using the chicken juice in the rice it stretched out the taste of the chicken which was a delicacy at that time.

My dessert was a light and rich Guanacoa Chocolate Mousse with brownies and hazelnut praline crunchy (£16), which was as easy on the eye as it was on the tongue, and my wife’s Mango Panna Cotta (£14) was smooth and sharp in equal measure, and a great finish to a wonderful meal.

Singapore, because of its location, has always been a hub for a multitude of eclectic tastes and flavours and so why not take that journey though South East Asia’s rich food culture in luxury at Straits Kitchen without having to travel so far?

www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/ pp-london/dining/straits-kitchen.html

Theo Randall at The Intercontinental

1 Hamilton Place, London W1J 7QY

Italian food is one of the nation’s favourites, and who doesn’t love a fulfilling bowl of pasta brimming with flavour? I have made many a pasta dish myself, and we all feel that we can easily cook Italian food, but the true diversity of flavours and textures of this wonderful cuisine only truly emerge in the hands of a master, and there is none better than Theo Randall to do this.

Theo has been described as the ‘unsung hero’ of the River Café, creating its signature dishes which catapulted it into the forefront of Britain’s restaurant culture whilst earning him a Michelin star in the process, before leaving to set up his eponymously titled restaurant at The Intercontinental when the hotel was refurbished in 2007.

Since then, he has been delighting his diners with the most flavoursome dishes, and as you would expect from both Theo and The Intercontinental, the food and the restaurant itself ooze class, and while many restaurants have come and gone, this one continues to go from strength to strength. If I had a blueprint for what makes a successful restaurant, I would be a rich man and very much in demand, but two critical ingredients are passion for the food and attention to detail, and these are abundantly evident here.

The restaurant is situated on the ground floor just as you enter the hotel lobby, and although windowless, the designers have created a welcoming and plush space with the use of clever lighting avoiding the trap of that dreaded ‘hotel restaurant’ feel, and when we arrived early evening in the middle of the week there was a pleasant murmur from the many diners who were enjoying Italian food the way it should taste.

A good adage I live by is ‘if it isn’t broke don’t fix it’, and Theo clearly also agrees with me, as here there is a good sprinkling of tried

and tested dishes on his menu that have been there for years, and when you return (and you will) they are like old friends you can reacquaint yourself with. For those who always want a new experience, there are also many new offerings, and every month there is an incredible value regional Tasting Menu which gastronomically transports the diner around a different region of Italy, showcasing all that region has to offer (£75 for 4 courses which includes wine pairing).

When we visited, the region being highlighted was Sardegna or Sardinia as it is better known, and the second largest island in the Mediterranean boasts many fine wines and a simple tasty cuisine full of meats, cheese and honey, and although this menu was extremely tempting, we opted for dishes from the À La Carte menu.

Dining the Italian way means 4 courses, starting with Antipasta, then a Primi, through to the Secondi and ending with a Dolce, with each course leading you along a wonderful path, but before these courses our journey started with a few nibbles, including a large plate of Zucchine Fritte (£7) and Bruschetta and Focaccia (£7). The zucchine were light and well flavoured and the focaccia was light, but the bruschetta was the best, as here Theo uses Altai tomatoes whose sweet and distinctive taste, along with the garlic, is a marriage made in heaven.

Our Antipasta choices were the Sformato di Fontina (£15) and Calamari in Padella (£19). Hailing from Tuscany, this baked fontina cheese soufflé with Italian spinach, cream and parmesan was wonderfully creamy without overpowering the distinctive nuttiness of the cheese and slight bitterness of the spinach. The generous portion of calamari was soft and slightly spiced, and its delicate flavour well supported by the earthy Cannellini beansa wonderful start to the meal.

Pasta is a very underrated food as many of us think of it as something that you buy in packets from the supermarket, but

when it is hand-made and accompanied by wonderful sauces, it is elevated exponentially. For our Primi my wife selected the Cappelletti di Anatra (£18), and I the Pappardelle con Ragu di Manzo ((£18). The Cappaletti consisted of handmade pasta stuffed with slow cooked duck with porcini and parmesan bathing in a rich sauce. This was one of the best dishes I have tasted, with the soft rich duck, the al dente pasta, and the sauce combining to create something magical. I love the chunkiness of pappardelle pasta, and when accompanied by the rich and meaty slow cooked beef in chianti served here, is also delicious, but the duck just pipped it!

For the Secondi I selected from the meat section choosing the marinated Lake District Lamb Rump with slow cooked potato, green beans, aubergine, tomatoes, grilled peppers and lamb jus (£35), and my wife stayed with the pasta section and selected the Porcini Risotto with creamed spinach and mascarpone (£24). The lamb was pink and succulent and the mixtures of taste and textures from the accompanying vegetables were an able accompaniment. Risotto is a firm favourite in our household and Theo’s didn’t disappoint, as it was very rich and indulgent.

After all that food it was difficult to see how we could fit in a dessert, but luckily we managed it, as the Lemon Tart is frankly a must have. The pastry is light and crumbly and the lemon filling is just sharp enough to awaken every one of your taste buds without being too strong, and it melts in your mouth. SImply divine!

Looking back, having dined at Theo Randall at The InterContinental, I now fully understand why it continues to go from strength to strength, as they produce deceptively simple dishes packed with top quality ingredients, expertly cooked, and made with a love and respect for the food, and that is a heady combination which will bring you back time after time.

www.theorandall.com

Americana Haymarket

11 Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4BP

Americana is London’s new Southern American restaurant perfectly located in Haymarket right in the heart of Theatreland, and if its exterior and interior décor is anything to go by, then it certainly captures that Southern restaurant charm.

The restaurant spans two floors, and there is an equal mix of greenery, American diner décor, along with a healthy dose of art deco, with an open kitchen in the front section of the ground floor and a wellstocked bar in the back section.

Tables are marbled topped, and the seats, comfortable velvet banquettes, perfect for sinking into to enjoy the southern hospitality on offer.

On arrival, diners are greeted with a wide selection of signature cocktails reflecting the deep south with a West End twist, or a number of craft beers, great to start your meal with whilst perusing the menu.

The Southern US encompasses a wide number of cuisines, including Tidewater, Cajun and Creole, and Americana’s menu encompasses all of these within its dishes. Americana offers all day dining until 1am Monday to Saturday and till 8pm on Sunday, and when we visited early evening on a Tuesday there was already a number of happy diners tucking into their meals, providing a nice murmur of conversation mixing well with the relaxing American soul music.

For our starters my friend and I opted for the American Cajun Gumbo (£12) and the Trio of Salmon Tostadas. Gumbo is a hearty stew which is so popular in Louisiana they have made it their official state cuisine, and here smoked sausage, chunks of tender chicken and holy trinity (celery, bell peppers and onions) are surrounded by a strongly flavoured stock creating a hearty, slightly spicy and warming hug in a bowl, all served with moreish cornbread. Tostadas are fried corn tortillas and mine

were lovely and crunchy and topped with chucks of fresh meaty salmon, avocado cream and salsa, and these ingredients were very fresh and flavoursome. Other firm southern favourites on the starter section include Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail (£15) and Nashville Cauliflower Bites (£7.5), the healthier alternative to Chicken Wings!

The choice of mains is extensive, with a trio of very tempting burgers made either with beef, buttermilk chicken or slow cooked pork, but my eyes were firmly pointed at the Southern Classics section and my friend’s at something from the grill. My friend’s prime Fillet Steak (£42) was juicy and bursting with rich buttery flavour, and his French Fries (£5) and Onion Rings (£5) were fluffy and light. I opted for the Americana Platter (£21.5) as I always like to get a variety of dishes, and here I received a half rack of slow Smoked Baby Back Pork Ribs as well as 5 Ranch Chicken Wings and a side of fries. To accompany this feast I selected a side of Mac & Cheese (£7) as this is a firm favourite of mine. The ribs were succulent and bathed in rich sweet BBQ sauce, as were the chicken wings, and the mac & cheese was rich and gooey, just as it should be.

The dessert menu won’t disappoint those with a sweet tooth, with offerings such as Americana Brownies and Alabama Pecan, both with Chantilly cream, but I opted for the Deep-Filled Apple Pie with salted caramel sauce, vanilla ice cream and cinnamon crumbs (£8), and my friend the Vanilla Lemon Cheesecake mixed berries, strawberry coulis and granola crumbs (£8). Apple and salted caramel are a match made in heaven, and add to that a rich vanilla ice cream and the crunch from the crumb and you get perfection!

When you visit Americana you will receive a warm Southern welcome and eat tasty southern soul food, in comfortable surroundings, whilst in close proximity to many of London’s best known theatres, providing a perfect night out.

www.americanalondon.com

THEATRE REVIEWS

By Tim Baros

Crazy For You

A good ole razzle dazzle, tap-dancing and memorable show is what you’ll get when you go to see ‘Crazy For You’.

Now playing at Covent Garden’s Gillian Lynne Theatre, it’s a show with lyrics by Ira Gershwin, and music by George Gershwin, based on the songwriting team’s 1930 musical Girl Crazy, and first performed in 1992, and it’s still a fun watch even to this day!

Luckily, we got Charlie Stemp as Bobby Child, who is the son of very wealthy parents. Stemp is the heart and soul of the show – and he’s so so good. Anyhoo, Child’s mother, makes him go to Nevada to take over a theatre that needs to be foreclosed on, but what does he do? He impersonates theatre producer wonderkind Bela Zangler, and with the locals, including the town beauty Polly (Carly Anderson), intends to put on a show to save the theatre, and to save the deadbeat town in the middle of the desert. But the real Zangler shows up (Tom Edden) and Child’s mother comes looking for him, as does his fiancé, meanwhile

Child has fallen in love with Polly, putting him in a few very sticky situations.

Kudos to the cast who winningly tap and sing throughout the show, giving us one spectacular song after another (‘I Got Rhythm’ had the audience on their feet). And world re-known choreographer Susan Stroman (who worked on the original show) is back, and it shows! Under the direction of Stroman, and with a cast who really live up to their hard work, the old fashioned musical has finally returned. You’re going to have a crazy and fun time while the cast and crew do all the hard work. Enjoy! www.crazyforyoumusical.com

Mrs Doubtfire

Gabriel Vick is perfect as Mrs. Doubtfire in the new show of the same name - it’s laugh out loud hilarious!

While no one can come close to Robin Williams, Vick nails it, down to the physical comedy, voice impressions, likability, charm and overall performance - Vick wins us over, and the show is his (with the help of some adorable children).

Daniel and Miranda (Laura Tebbutt) are having trouble in their marriage, as Daniel - a freelance voice actor - is irresponsible and can’t get enough work, and with three

Crazy For You at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. London cast. Photo credit Johan Persson

Doubtfire the musical (original London cast).

Photo credit Manuel Harlan

children to raise it’s not easy. When Miranda announces she wants a divorce, Daniel has to move out of their San Francisco home to a small run down flat. There’s another hitch, he needs a job to prove he can provide for his children, and his visitation rights to his children are very limited. So, when Daniel finds out that Miranda is looking for a nanny for their children (after hacking into her phone), he does what any father would do - he applies for the nanny’s position!

With the help of his makeup/hairstylist brother Frank (Cameron Blakely) and partner Andre (Marcus Collins), Daniel wins over Miranda with his English nanny accent, sensibility and smarts, and so he is hired right on the spot.

The children and Miranda don’t suspect a thing, and life goes on until the jig is up! But through winning songs (I Want To Be There, Letting Go and Playing with Fire), and very, very funny skits (we get 9 Mrs. Doubtfire’s at one point), Mrs. Doubtfire the musical becomes an instant classic!

This show is certain to be a sure fire hit, and has just announced an extension to its run until June 2024. This shows that word of mouth has spread as to how fun and entertaining this show is, namely - the funniest show now in the west end! It’s all down to Vick in the lead role, though Tebbutt is very good as his wife and aspiring clothing designer, and the various actors who play the children are well worth the mention (Carla Dixon-Hernandez is the oldest daughter Lydia and is fantastic).

Thanks to a very funny book by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell, and songs by Wayne and Karey Kirkpatrick, Mrs Doubtfire is a must see!

Photos by Manuel Harlan www.mrsdoubtfiremusical.co.uk

A Strange Loop

A Strange Loop is a story about an usher at a Broadway theatre writing a musical about an usher who is writing a musical about an usher - you get the picture - it’s a strange loop.

This show was written extraordinarily by ex-usher Michael R. Jackson, who is now a Tony and Pulitzer Prize winner for this show. The protagonist in this show, like Jackson, happens to be gay, very large, young (25) and black (played by Kyle Ramar-Freeman), and he is only known by usher in this show, left alone with his thoughts (six of them played by various actors).

A Strange Loop starts hilariously enough pushing all of the buttons of the life of a horny young gay black man living in Manhattan, his sex life, a pickup on Grindr (a queasy scene where usher bottoms for a daddy type), and a visit to his doctor (who excruciatingly tells him to go get laid no matter what), and, more realistically, hit on by a hot Black guy on the subway, only for it be revealed that he’s actually a sneery white guy who isn’t even interested in him.

But then the show delves dark and deep, and preachy, when his parents tell him about the

dangers of being gay and catching HIV, and if that message wasn’t searing enough, we get a preacher and his gospel singers who extoll the fact that being gay means getting AIDS, and to hit the nail in the coffin a huge HIV+ sign comes down from the ceiling just to pound the message - that if you’re gay you’re going to die of this disease, no matter what.

I really don’t understand how this show won Best Musical at the Tony Awards - perhaps because it was edgy and unlike anything anyone has ever seen? To be fair, the cast in the London production are fantastic, with Nathan Amarkwei Laryea as ’Thought 2,’ while Freeman owns the stage once the curtain goes up - he’s a born natural. I would’ve like to have seen more monologues dealing with theatregoers at the theatre where he works - now that would’ve been a fun show! The songs, which along with the script, start out funny, but as the show delves deeper and darker the laughs (at least for me) came to a halt, and I really don’t know how mainstream audiences will take to this show.

Photos by Marc Brenner

www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2023/ event/a-strange-loop

Mrs. Doubtfire the musical (original London cast). Photo credit Manuel Harlan

L-R_ Nathan Armarkwei-Laryea (Thought 2), Sharlene Hector (Thought 1), Eddie Elliott (Thought 6), Kyle Ramar Freeman (Usher), Tendai Humphrey Sitima (Thought 4), Danny Bailey (Thought 5), Yeukayi Ushe (Thought 3) Photographer Credit_ Marc Brenner

Looking for a professional Quiz Master?

Ben Everson has many years experience in compiling and compering quizzes, and has a great reputation for hosting fun, entertaining evenings.

Ben ensures that the questions will be tailored to your audience, and ensures that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to their team, as well as providing informative and amusing context to some of the answers.

A great quiz doesn’t just happen, it needs careful planning and research, so if you are looking to hold a successful Quiz Night and would like to someone to create a memorable quiz and host the evening for you, please call Ben Everson on 07921 694823, or email beneverson@hotmail.com

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Empowered Transitions: Women Navigating Wealth Acquisition

There are a broad range of life events, big and small, that impact our financial and emotional wellbeing. Quite like the investment markets, things that change the direction of travel in our lives can be unpredictable and often unplanned for. By 2025, 60% of the wealth in the UK will be in the hands of women(1), through the generation of wealth, with more women in the workforce and business owners than ever before, but also for some women this will be through the death of a loved one or following a divorce.

Going through a time as turbulent as the death of a spouse or breakdown of a marriage are two of the most emotionally taxing events in life, and seeking financial advice is not likely to be high on the list of things to do. Especially in relationships where women have not taken the lead on their finances, the transition to managing their own wealth can be intimidating. Although more women are investing now than ever before, now at 67% in 2021 up from 44% in 2018(2), there is still a large cohort of women who have not previously had to navigate the wealth management landscape. Coupled with the fact that women are more likely to outlive their male peers, this transition of wealth will affect more and more of us in the years to come.

So, what can women do now and in the future to protect themselves against situations that nobody likes to keep at the forefront of their minds?

Develop Your Financial Education

Taking a seat at the table early on with your family’s wealth management is key. Having the opportunity to fully understand your family assets and finances, as well as the plans and structures in place will help to give you confidence during a time when the ground feels as if it is shifting beneath you. Having the knowledge of your assets and your current balance sheet removes one element of uncertainty during transitionary periods.

A study by Fidelity Investments (2021) found(3) that whilst women feel confident in balancing the day-to-day finances for their household (75%), they are far less confident in; selecting investments to meet their goals (19%), in investing for their short and medium-term goals (29%), or planning for

their financial needs in retirement (31%). It is often said that knowledge is power, and in this case confidence; by taking the time to self-educate, become more involved in your finances or employ the services of a professional, if you have not done so already, can provide a feeling of security during turbulent times.

Employ Professional Expertise

Research has shown that only 3% of couples turn to a financial adviser during divorce(4), leaving themselves to navigate the process without the specialist insight. This advice can have particular importance to women who see their income fall by 33% following divorce compared to just 18% for men in the UK(5), which holds true with studies from the other side of the Atlantic, where women experienced a 45% decline in their standard of living following a “grey divorce” compared to just 21% for men(6)

their wealth. However, this can be a costly decision, leveraging the expertise of a financial adviser during the process can help to highlight key areas of consideration in settlement proceedings.

During this vulnerable time for couples, the focus tends to be drawn to the family home with less thought taken into retirement accounts. A survey by Which? (7) found that 7 out of 10 couples did not include pensions in their financial settlements. Retirement savings are a key source of income in later life for many, with women’s retirement assets continuing to lag men. In the US, research into 401(k)s found that women’s account balances were 65% less than men, with a number of factors contributing to the gap(8). Therefore, reaching an agreement on the splitting of retirement assets is even more important for women, who should consider the knock on effects of forfeiting rights to the tax-deferred benefit of a liquid asset in favour of the illiquid asset which cannot necessarily be relied on as a source of income when needed in later life.

Where the transition into managing wealth is through the loss of a loved one, if your family is already engaged with a financial adviser, as we note earlier, it is essential to be part of the conversation and decision making in your family’s wealth. In doing so, you can ensure that plans have been put in place for that terrible “what if?” scenario, for both partners, and you will be guided by a professional who is keeping their ear to the ground with legislation that could affect your family’s financial wellbeing in future.

In both the UK and the US, probate can be a lengthy process, increasing equally in time and cost depending on the complexity of the estate that is being settled. This uncertainty of the process and the timeline involved can no doubt exacerbate an already daunting situation. By starting the conversation early with an adviser, you can safeguard yourself and understand any financial hurdles you might be up against.

As part of the dissolution of a marriage a divorce lawyer is an obvious need, with many leaving the dust to settle before looking for professional management of

Once estates have been settled, women find themselves left to explore their new financial freedom, and part of this will mean making large financial decisions for themselves and their family. If your family does not currently have a financial adviser, or one you feel you connect with, you may want to meet with a number of professionals to see who is best suited to your needs.

As part of the dissolution of a marriage a divorce lawyer is an obvious need, with many leaving the dust to settle before looking for professional management of their wealth

Approximately a third of women with wealth say they would only work with an investment professional they trusted, 10% more than their male counterparts, and over half of women putting a high level of importance to personality match (9). This evidences that finding the right financial support for women is essential. The key piece of the puzzle, as with any relationship, is finding an adviser who you can trust and is able to walk with you in understanding your needs, goals, and how to meet them.

Define Your Life Goals

This will be an area of life that will have no doubt been flipped upside down during this transitionary time, as we know the best laid plans can often go awry. Although unsettling at first, defining your new normal and new goals can be an empowering experience. Women tend to be more concerned about meeting their financial life goals than men. In the US, a study found that in a range of categories from healthcare needs to tax reduction, and lifestyle maintenance(10) , women were focused on achieving a number of goals which also align with their values. Men on the other hand place more emphasis on pure performance, basing their investment decisions on track records and yields(11)

Taking the time for self-reflection and shaping your goals with your trusted adviser is essential and provides you clarity of your new direction of travel. Although an area that might be hard to think of at first, taking the time early on to take the steps in the right direction will give you peace of mind that you have a plan in place for the long-term.

Finding an adviser that understands the importance of taking the time to learn your values and your goals, and guiding you through that journey, is just as important as connecting with their personality.

Build Out Your Support Network

Building out your support network and speaking with others who have experienced similar transitions to you, learning from their past results and pitfalls, can help to alleviate the fear of the unknown. You might have a friend or family member who is more versed in the financial world that can support you and provide recommendations of advisers who can help. In particular, McKinsey found that women, more so than men, are more inclined to only work with investment professionals who were recommended by someone that they knew and trusted (12) . To feel greater confidence in your onward journey using your networks for guidance can be extremely beneficial. We are seeing more and more community networks aimed at supporting women on their financial path, offering a space for them to both learn and become more empowered.

The stories of women who acquire wealth through divorce or spousal death are testaments to their strength and resilience. These women navigate intricate financial landscapes, especially those with complex cross-border requirements, while dealing with the emotional impact of significant life changes. As societal norms evolve and women continue to assert their financial independence, their journeys serve as inspirations for others and offer as a support network to those starting out on their financial journey.

References:

1) www.schroders.com/en-gb/uk/ intermediary/insights/are-women-key-toyour-future-business/

2) www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_ fidelity_com/documents/about-fidelity/ FidelityInvestmentsWomen&InvestingSt udy2021.pdf

3) www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_ fidelity_com/documents/about-fidelity/ FidelityInvestmentsWomen&InvestingSt udy2021.pdf

4) www.legalandgeneral.com/adviser/ retirement/adviser-academy/insightand-articles/divorce-in-later-life/findingfinancial-fairness-supporting-womenin-later-life-divorce/#:~:text=Only%20 3%25%20of%20people%20seek,couple%20 find%20financial%20fairness6

5) www.legalandgeneral.com/adviser/ retirement/adviser-academy/insightand-articles/divorce-in-later-life/findingfinancial-fairness-supporting-womenin-later-life-divorce/#:~:text=Only%20 3%25%20of%20people%20seek,couple%20 find%20financial%20fairness6

6) www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/ PMC8599059/

7) www.which.co.uk/news/article/sevenin-10-divorcing-couples-dont-sharepensions-aDHbd4A9tStW

8) www.troweprice.com/content/dam/ iinvestor/resources/insights/pdfs/closingthe-gender-retirement-savings-gap.pdf

9) www.mckinsey.com/industries/financialservices/our-insights/women-as-thenext-wave-of-growth-in-us-wealthmanagement

10) www.mckinsey.com/industries/financialservices/our-insights/women-as-thenext-wave-of-growth-in-us-wealthmanagement

11) www.bcg.com/publications/2020/ managing-next-decade-women-wealth

12) www.mckinsey.com/industries/financialservices/our-insights/women-as-thenext-wave-of-growth-in-us-wealthmanagement

Jennifer Eathorne

Jen Eathorne is a Wealth Manager at MASECO Private Wealth specialising in cross border financial planning and investment management.

E: Jennifer.eathorne@masecopw.com

THE LEGAL STUFF

This document may not be forwarded, copied or distributed without our prior consent. This document has been prepared by MASECO LLP for information purposes only and does not constitute investment, tax or any other type of advice and should not be construed as such. The information contained herein is subject to copyright with all rights reserved.

The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of MASECO as a whole or any part thereof. All investments involve risk and may lose value. The value of your investment can go down depending upon market conditions and you may not get back the original amount invested. Your capital is always at risk. Information about potential tax benefits is based on our understanding of current tax law and practice and may be subject to change. The levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation is subject to change. The tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each individual and may be subject to change in the future.

MASECO LLP (trading as MASECO Private Wealth and MASECO Institutional) is established as a limited liability partnership under the laws of England and Wales (Companies House No. OC337650) and has its registered office at Burleigh House, 357 Strand, London WC2R 0HS. The individual partners are Mr J E Matthews, Mr J R D Sellon, Mr A Benson, Mr D R B Dorman, Mr H Q A Findlater, Mr T Flonaes, Mr E A Howison and Ms A L Solana. For your protection and for training purposes, calls are usually recorded.

MASECO LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the conduct of investment business in the UK and is registered with the US Securities and Exchange Commission as a Registered Investment Advisor.

TAXING ISSUES

Retirement Considerations For Americans In The United Kingdom

The following is designed to provide general tax information for Americans living in or contemplating a move to the United Kingdom, and does not constitute legal advice. As with all legal issues, seeking tailored advice from qualified counsel is advisable.

Developing an efficient retirement savings strategy is an ongoing challenge encountered by American expats who spend considerable time living abroad during their careers. In many countries, retirement savings options for Americans are limited, and those available may be plagued by onerous reporting challenges and punitive tax exposure back home. Fortunately, American expats in the United Kingdom have access to a number of retirement savings options that can be managed effectively from a US tax perspective on account of the US/UK Income Tax Treaty.

With tax implications manageable, handling the additional information reporting that will be required in the US to disclose UK pensions will generally be worth the effort. But, even here, working with a qualified tax or financial adviser to design a personalised retirement savings strategy is crucial.

This article will offer a brief overview of the options available to Americans in the United Kingdom and explain the tax relief that applies. It will go on to discuss information reporting and tax implications in the United States and identify several of the key decision-making factors that should be considered when developing an individualised retirement savings strategy that incorporates UK pensions.

1. Overview Of UK Pension Rules

Types of Pensions. In many ways, the private pension system in the United Kingdom is quite similar to that of the United States. Contributions are tax protected and earnings grow tax-free until the individual reaches retirement age and begins taking distributions.

There are two primary categories of private pensions that will be encountered in the UK: workplace pensions and personal pensions. Employer-funded or workplace arrangements can have a variety of different features, and every company will offer unique funding options.

Personal pensions are established separately from employment, though it is possible for certain companies to fund

personal pensions as a benefit to employees. These pensions may offer broad latitude with investment options, but can require more effort and expense to set up.

Tax Benefits. The tax benefits provided in the United Kingdom for contributions to pension schemes are significant. Pension guidelines have been dynamic in recent years and UK taxpayers can now obtain tax relief on up to £60,000 of contributions to a registered pension scheme. This allowance is reduced, or “tapered”, for individuals with incomes greater than £200,000. The high rate of 40% in the United Kingdom for anyone earning over £50,270 (2023/24) means that maximising the full contribution can produce up to £24,000 in tax savings annually.

Importantly, the lifetime allowance that would have resulted in additional charges on UK pension balances over £1,073,100 has been removed as of April 6, 2023.

With such meaningful savings produced by UK pension participation, Americans will inevitably be faced with the obligation of having to coordinate the benefits provided in the United Kingdom with the tax and reporting challenges that can arise in the United States.

2. Obligations As An American With A UK Pension

The general rule for Americans who are participating in pension schemes outside the United States, is that contributions to any non-US plan are not eligible for deferral from US tax. Even if pension contributions are tax protected in the country where the plan is organised, the amount contributed will remain taxable as wages in the United States.

With this type of arrangement, undistributed income earned within the pension each year will escape US taxation only if the plan has been funded predominantly with employer contributions, and additional strict requirements are met with respect to the plan’s treatment of highly compensated individuals.

Employer pensions that do not meet this standard and private, non-employer pensions, will be afforded no tax protection on planlevel earnings in the United States and will generally be taxed as foreign trusts. The annual compliance costs, lack of tax protection, and potential for double taxation can undermine any retirement savings strategy.

US/UK Income Tax Treaty. Fortunately, the US/UK Income Tax Treaty offers generous protection against US taxation for American participants in UK registered pension schemes. This treaty is one of only a handful that offers Americans the ability to participate in local pensions without the tax challenges described above.

The treaty provides that contributions made to a UK pension will qualify for exemption from US tax up to the amount that would be tax protected if it had been made to a US qualified plan. Combining employer and employee contributions as well as other additions to the plan, up to $66,000 (2023) could be contributed to an employer funded arrangement each year with protection from the treaty.

The treaty also provides that plan-level earnings within all registered UK pension schemes will be protected from US tax until funds are actually distributed. This provision expressly covers transfers between UK arrangements allowing for plan rollovers without fear of triggering a US tax liability.

Once retirement age is reached and distributions begin, the treaty ensures that tax obligations are coordinated between the United States and the United Kingdom and gives priority to the recipient’s country of residence at the time of distribution to tax the payment for periodic pension distributions. Special rules apply to distributions considered to be a “lumpsum”. This means that Americans who move back to the United States may be able to claim protection from UK tax by leveraging the benefits available under the Treaty.

Foreign Asset Reporting. Americans with non-US accounts are required to file an FBAR report when the combined balance of all accounts exceeds $10,000 at any point during the year. UK pension arrangements should be disclosed on the FBAR report each year if the threshold is passed. No tax is assessed on the maximum value but penalties as great as $10,000 per unfiled report can be assessed for negligent late filings.

UK pensions would also need to be disclosed on the Statement of Specified Foreign Financial Assets (Form 8938) that is included with the annual tax return but has higher reporting limits than the FBAR. Again, no tax is assessed with this report, but a $10,000 flat fee penalty can apply for failing to file.

Of mention, arguments can likely be made that defined benefit workplace pensions that

do not have any type of cash surrender value would not be FBAR reportable and would be valued at zero for purposes of the Form 8938 if no distributions were received during the year. Regardless, a conservative approach is generally recommended with foreign account and asset reporting given that reporting is informational in nature and strict noncompliance penalties can be assessed.

Foreign Trust Reporting. For personal pension schemes that are not established and funded through a UK employer, there has historically been a grey area as to whether Forms 3520 and 3520-A would need to be filed with respect to certain transactions associated with this type of arrangement.

The Internal Revenue Service has been making efforts to alleviate the burden of the additional foreign trust reporting for owners of foreign pension schemes, publishing Revenue Procedure 2020-17 in March 2020. In this Revenue Procedure, certain foreign pension schemes are exempted from foreign trust reporting provided the plan is registered as a retirement vehicle in the country where established and specific plan requirements are met. While clearly indicative of a more favourable policy for these types of accounts, and easing the foreign trust reporting responsibilities, the lack of specific guidance or any list of exempted foreign plans does not eliminate this grey area entirely.

Ultimately, American owners of personal pensions in the UK will want to come up with a tax planning and compliance approach with their US tax adviser.

3. Strategy And Decision-Making Factors

With the UK tax benefits applicable to participation largely outweighing the additional compliance challenges arising in the US, establishing an individualised strategy based on plans for the future and retirement savings goals will be key.

Interaction with UK Inheritance Tax. UK inheritance tax is outside the scope of this article, but it should be noted that registered pension schemes are an important tool in mitigating any inheritance tax exposure. Americans who do intend to remain in the United Kingdom indefinitely would be advised to develop an understanding of how pension vehicles can be leveraged to reduce exposure to inheritance tax. With UK inheritance tax kicking in for estates valued at £325,000, compared to the $12.92 million (2023) estate tax threshold in the US, exposure to UK inheritance tax will be a concern for many individuals residing permanently in the United Kingdom.

UK Pension Access Limitations. Though almost never advisable, many American taxpayers are forced at some point in their

lives to access a portion of the funds they have contributed to a 401(k) or IRA in the United States. When this happens, any portion of the distribution that is not treated as a return of capital from the retirement arrangement will be subject to income tax as well as a 10% penalty. By contrast, accessing UK pensions before retirement age (currently age 55) is generally not an option. While the pension can be tapped in certain scenarios, the amount forfeited through penalties and other charges can be as much as half of the amount of the distribution.

Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs). While not qualified as registered pension schemes, Individual Savings Accounts can be another way for Americans to save money without permanent tax and reporting requirements. These arrangements do not qualify as pension schemes and can be accessed without penalty at any point after the account was funded. Keep in mind, however, that while the earnings in an ISA are not taxed for UK purposes, they will remain taxable for US purposes as they are afforded no protection under the treaty. Accordingly, avoiding stocks and shares ISAs that will be actively traded and invested in unit trusts and mutual funds is wise, as such investments can create a US tax nightmare.

Options for Self-Employed Individuals. The decision to participate in a UK pension scheme may not always be so easy for self-employed individuals who receive no employer support and are obligated to establish personal pensions independently. For Americans in the United Kingdom on a short-term basis, when inheritance tax planning is not on the horizon, the lack of early access to UK pension arrangements coupled with the potential for increased information reporting may render other options more favourable.

One option would be to continue making contributions to a traditional or Roth IRA in the United States. Note, however, that this may not be possible if the foreign earned income exclusion is being used to reduce US taxation, as this benefit can eliminate the taxable income that creates eligibility for making these contributions. The maximum IRA contribution that can be made in 2023 was $6,500.

Additional reporting aside, the tax savings in the United Kingdom, even for selfemployed individuals, will make personal pensions very interesting. With a small amount of planning, these arrangements can still be effectively used to produce UK tax savings without creating a US tax and information reporting burden.

Decision to Elect Treaty Protection. For most American expats, the decision will be made to participate in employer pension schemes while working in the UK if the option avails itself. An entirely separate question is whether to elect to defer contributions to the arrangement under the treaty. As with

all non-US pensions, a possibility exists that even without the US/UK treaty, planlevel earnings would still escape annual US taxation pursuant to the rules for nonexempt employees trusts and highly compensated individuals. If these rules were applicable, contributions would remain taxable on the US side, but earnings would still escape US taxation until distribution.

However, the tax rates applicable in the United Kingdom will be considerably higher than in the United States at every level of income. Many scenarios will arise where foreign tax credits available will eliminate US tax exposure on the contribution even if no tax is assessed on that amount during that year in the UK. The higher rate of tax on the other income and carryovers from prior years will often be sufficient to cover any shortfall.

Utilising this strategy could result in a considerable amount of after-tax contributions having been made to the UK pension for US tax reporting purposes without triggering US tax in the year of contribution. Consequently, highly tax efficient results could be produced if distributions are claimed periodically after a move back to the United States.

Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS). Unfortunately, applying this strategy will almost never be a plausible solution for Americans with UK pensions. At a very high level, the QROPS strategy allows individuals to transfer their UK pension holdings to a country with more advantageous tax rules without paying current tax in the UK on the transfer. From a US perspective, this is a fully taxable transfer. This may not have deterred Americans with considerable foreign tax credit carryovers who were approaching the lifetime pension limit in the UK; however, with this limitation having been removed, the benefits of such transaction are not apparent.

Ultimately, while participation in UK pension schemes is not entirely without compliance challenges for American expats, the tremendous tax savings options offered in the UK will generally make participation a smart economic decision.

Roland A. Sabates, Expat Legal Services Group

Expat Legal Services Group offers unique legal services for American expatriates and foreign nationals with financial interests in the United States. Our firm serves the expat community in the areas of international tax, immigration law, and cross border business and estate planning leveraging a suite of modern technology solutions. Contact Expat Legal Services Group today at info@expatlegal.com or visit the website at www.expatlegal.com.

The choice of an attorney is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising.

PROPERTY

Encouraging Words For Relocated Americans In The UK

As the head of a global relocation services team for one of the largest independent real estate brokerages in the United States, I have worked with our partners at the London-based firm Knight Frank Residential to help innumerable American clients relocate to the United Kingdom.

And as the daughter of parents who relocated from a small town in Connecticut and spent seven years living in Europe, I suppose you could say expatriation is in my blood.

As a result, I know intimately how exciting and enriching - as well as frustrating and downright demoralising - it can be for Americans who decide to make a life outside of the USA, particularly in the UK. After all, how hard can it be when everyone speaks English?

So, whether you’re getting ready to go, you’ve just arrived, you’re well established,

or you’re preparing to pull up stakes and head back home, I want to share some pro tips and lessons learned that I’ve collected from clients in the hope that they’ll help you make the most of your time on the other side of the pond.

1. Yes, You Are In A Different Country!

While you have perhaps vacationed in the UK or elsewhere in Europe, taking in the sites and eating different foods, it probably was not a thoroughly deep dive into the culture. The little things you may have missed were only briefly out of reach, and there was comfort in knowing you would return home to your “normal” life, with its homey habits and familiar foods. This will be different, whether it lasts several months or several years. Yes, the coffee

is stronger! The sooner you embrace your “new normal,” the better the transition will be for you and yours.

2. What To Bring

File this one under “Know Before You Go”: If you plan to go light and leave many of your possessions at home, you’ll likely be able to find clothing, furniture, dishes, and other items in the UK. Unless you have a plethora of adaptors, leave your appliances and plan on buying new ones (I can’t tell you how many people pack their favourite blender only to realise they can’t use it). However, one essential appliance for many Americans turns out to be rather scarce in Great Britain: the air conditioner. So, if you’re not prepared to adapt to an AC-free lifestyle, consider bringing your trusty window unit - along with the proper adaptor, of course.

3. What To Leave Behind

As for the things you decide to leave behind in storage, you would be wise to channel Marie Kondo and be ruthlessly honest about what you think will still spark joy years later, when -or if - you ever come back to reclaim it. Take it from my parents, whose reunion with their gold-green and beige ‘70s-era couch was truly tearful - with regret at having paid for seven years of storage.

4. Don’t Be Shy

This good advice for life in general is especially vital for any expat who wants to maximise their experience in their host country. Get out there and meet people, make new friends, try new foods and activities, travel, do things you’ve always thought you were afraid to do - embrace the enviable opportunity to be something of a stranger in a strange land. And if your kids are along for the ride, allow them the opportunity to embrace this potentially lifechanging experience!

5. Don’t Be A Stranger

Even as you make an effort to immerse yourself in your new social and cultural environment, do not neglect the importance of staying connected with your family and friends back home. And even though you may be having the time of your life, do not assume your family and friends will appreciate you regaling them with tales of your daily culinary adventures or regular excursions through the easily traversable European Union. Ask what they are up to and let them know you’re thinking about them. And try your best to reach out regularly, beyond the holiday card.

6. Don’t Be Forgotten

This one is for those of you who have relocated in order to work in the UK while most, if not all of your managers and colleagues remain in the US. Even if you may be succeeding at the job you were sent here to do, the power of “out of sight, out of mind” is real. Keep in close contact with your stateside managers and colleagues, make your presence known, and don’t let them forget that you’re still an integral part of the team. How? Make the effort to work around their schedule. Participate on that conference call, even if it’s 9pm your time. Continue to invite them to your meetings, so they feel they are still involved with your new direction or decisions. Be the glue that keeps everything and everyone connected.

7. The Perils Of Re-Entry

When/if the time comes for you to return to the US, do not underestimate the enormity of the adjustment you’ll be facing. You may

understand already that you cannot simply pick up where you left off. But even if you have been diligent about staying in touch with your family, friends, and colleagues back home, reacclimatising to life in the States may be every bit as disorienting and stressful as it was when you were first settling in as a newly relocated American in the UK. Everything will be different.

8. Embrace The New You - But Don’t Force Everyone Else To!

With your newfound wealth of experiences and lifestyle changes, you may be eager to share the ‘New You’ with everyone back home. But, hard to believe as it may be, not everyone will be ready (or willing) to meet this person. Be considerate, and put their lives first before gradually introducing them to your new persona.

9. Ask For Help

If your company is sending you back home, be sure the relocation package offers the same support as when you left. Employers often assume returning colleagues don’t need as much help as they did when they left - as my parents told me, they were sort of “dropped on their heads” with little support. Well, things will be different, and you will need help. Your children will be older and have to matriculate into a completely different educational system. Your relocation benefits should also include area tours - even if you are returning to the same town. And if you are not interested in returning to the same town you left behind, see if there is a different location you can work from. Finally, does your company offer internal resources or groups for those returning home? Having someone to talk to who can relate to your experience will go a long way.

Whether you’re moving abroad or getting ready to head back home, let the Douglas Elliman and Knight Frank Residential team help you. From selling your current home to buying a new one to settling in wherever you land, our relocation experts will be with you every step of the way.

Christine Haney, Executive Vice President, Global Relocation and Referral Services, Douglas Elliman

Christine brings her client relations expertise and business-building results to Douglas Elliman as Executive Vice President of Global Relocation and Referral Services. Christine is responsible for global strategic design and implementation of programmes to provide exceptional service and increase business opportunities, while forging relationships with customers,

corporate clients and brokers alike. Notable contributions include the implementation of a Destination Services programme for international clients; The Elliman Advantage programme, an affinity programme offered to direct corporate clients; the partnership with Knight Frank Residential, bringing Douglas Elliman’s coverage to almost 50 countries worldwide.

Christine spent 15 years on the Prudential team prior to joining Douglas Elliman. During this time Christine acted as Director, Prudential Referral Services for the USA, Canada and Mexico, Director, Business Development for Prudential Home Connections, USA, an employee affinity programme. Other positions included management of the Northeast Broker Network; Team Leader of Appraisal/Inspection and Real Estate Services. Prior to her career in relocation, she spent nine years as a Financial Manager for several smaller companies, handling various aspects of financial and strategic planning.

Christine holds a BS in Business Management from Albertus Magnus College, New Haven, Connecticut, and has her SCRP, SGMS and SGDS industry designations. She currently sits on the Executive Board of RDC and held the role of President of NYCorp, for two consecutive terms. Christine is still active on this board.

DOUGLAS ELLIMAN

575 Madison Avenue, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10022

Telephone: 212-303-5250

Email: chaney@elliman.com

HEALTHCARE The

Of the five senses, a majority of people would miss sight the most, yet many of us don’t really know how to best look after our eyes.

Did You Know?

• Over 2 million people in the UK are living with sight loss severe enough to have a significant impact on their daily lives. Half of this sight loss is avoidable

• An eye test can detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, which can be treated if found soon enough. Other health conditions, such as high blood pressure can also be detected. We asked Dr Nick Koutroumanos FRCOphth, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Ophthalmic Plastic Surgeon at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, to share his top tips for maintaining healthy eyes:

Have Your Eyes Checked

Regular eye tests are a straightforward way to stay on top of your eye health and everyone over the age of 16 should have their eyesight checked every two years, even if they are not experiencing any problems. I would

Secret To 20/20 Vision

recommend that children have their eyes tested more frequently – once every year. As well as routine eye tests, there are plenty of other things you can do to look after your eyes:

Eat Well

Studies show what we eat can affect our vision. Keep your eyes in top shape by eating plenty of:

• Oily fish, such as mackerel, sardines, and herring. These are rich in essential fatty acids (such as omega-3) which are the building blocks of fat. These important nutrients are essential for the normal functioning of our cells. As our bodies can’t produce essential fatty acids, we have to obtain them from our food. Omega-3 in particular has been found to reduce the risk of dry eyes, macular degeneration, and glaucoma

• Seeds, such as chia, flax, and hemp. These are also rich in omega-3 as well as vitamin E, which is beneficial for eye health

• Carrots, and other orange-coloured fruit and veg such as sweet potatoes and mangoes. These are high in betacarotene, a type of vitamin A that can

help the eyes see better in the dark

• Eggs. The yolks contain antioxidants called lutein and zeaxanthin. These compounds help the eyes filter out blue light which can damage the retina

• Dark leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale, which contain high levels of antioxidants called carotenoids. These are thought to reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration, which is the most frequent cause of sight loss in people over 55.

Stay Active

Maintaining a good exercise regime can reduce the risk of sight loss from narrowing or hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure, and diabetes. In fact, research has shown people who walk, or cycle regularly, have a 10% lower risk of developing cataracts than people who have more sedentary lifestyles.

Make Positive

Lifestyle Choices

Heavy drinking increases the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and coronary heart disease. High blood pressure

can contribute to a whole host of eye problems, including glaucoma, so drink alcohol in moderation.

Research consistently shows that smoking increases the risk of developing macular degeneration, with current smokers up to four times more likely to have it than people who have never smoked. Being a smoker also increases the risk of developing cataracts. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health.

Wear Sunglasses

Protecting your eyes from the sun is very important. This is because UV light is damaging to all parts of the eye, including the eyelid, which has the thinnest skin in the body. Corneal damage, cataracts and macular degeneration are all possible consequence of long-term UV exposure, and UV damage can also cause skin dryness, wrinkles, pigmentation, and cancers that can spread to the inside of the eye.

As such, invest in a good pair of sunglasses! Look for the CE mark which ensures they provide the right level of UV protection.

At John & Lizzie’s Eye Clinic, I diagnose and treat all sorts of eye conditions, including dry or watery eyes and cataracts. However, I specialise in blepharoplasty surgery and other plastic and reconstructive procedures of the eyelids, tear ducts and eye sockets.

Having completed three post-residency oculoplastics fellowships and extensive oculoplastics training in London, Vancouver, New York, and San Fransisco, I decided to set a private practice here in St John’s Wood, London.

The hospital’s Eye Clinic has recently expanded and invested in new equipment for treating a wide range of eye conditions, and also benefits from having access to the hospital’s newly built theatres.

Most people who have an eye problem won’t need surgery, but should this be the case, most of my eye surgeries are done as a day case, meaning you can be treated and go home the same day.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

If you would like to book a routine eye exam or have a specific eye issue you’d like checked out, call the Eye Clinic on 020 7078 3848 and ask to book in with me.

EXCELLENT HEALTHCARE, IMPECCABLE STANDARDS

Founded in 1856, St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is one of the UK’s largest independent private hospitals. Over the years, the hospital has earned a reputation for delivering the best possible outcomes with compassionate care.

All treatments in the hospital help fund the onsite St John’s Hospice, which provides free quality-of-life care to over 4,500 people and their families each year. St John & St Elizabeth Hospital

60 Grove End Road, London, NW8 9NH www.hje.org.uk

Dr Nick Koutroumanos FRCOphth, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Ophthalmic Plastic Surgeon.

HOTEL REVIEW

The Montagu Arms Hotel, Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire

The New Forest is famous for its ponies and horses wandering around the roads and streets, and its beautiful scenery, so whether it’s enjoying a riverside picnic, exploring the charming High Street or visiting the incredible Motor Museum, the village of Beaulieu and its surrounding area provides a great day out, weekend away or longer holiday for couples and families, and The Montagu Arms Hotel is a perfect place to stay whilst exploring this picturesque area.

Beaulieu itself is situated at the head of the tidal Beaulieu River, and dates back to the 13th century. The village initially grew up around the Abbey which was founded in 1204 by Cistercian monks, on land given to them by King John, who had a royal hunting lodge at Beaulieu. It was given the name of ‘Bellus Locus Regis’, or the beautiful place of the King. King John had quarrelled with the Cistercian Order early in his reign and decided to establish an Abbey to atone for his past oppressions. This generosity made him the subject of prayers in every Cistercian monastery. For centuries, Beaulieu flourished as the monks traded goods and tended medicinal gardens (which can still be seen to this day at the Abbey).

A stone’s throw from this Abbey is the charming Montagu Arms Hotel, a lovely English Country House hotel, with 22 bedrooms and suites in the main house, and a modern offering of 2 Hayloft Suites and 9 Courtyard rooms, all built around the beautiful gardens.

On arrival at The Montagu Arms Hotel you can either enter via the front entrance, straight into the oak panelled, polished, herringbone parquet floored reception, or as we did, via the car park at the back, and through the beautiful gardens and courtyard, with lovely tables and chairs around a beautiful pond and fountain (which is where we were lucky enough to have breakfast the next day, as it is an idyllic, peaceful spot). Many of the guests, and some with their dogs, were enjoying a refreshing drink, and quietly reading newspapers, whilst others were enjoying Afternoon Tea in the Victorian-style Magnolia Lounge, and the conservatory overlooking the garden.

We were shown to our Courtyard Suite ‘Fig’, by one of the many charming members of staff, and our room, for me, really had the wow factor. A beautifully appointed Courtyard Suite, it has its own terrace at the

front, and a shared garden at the back, both directly accessible from the room, and I have to say is one of the nicest rooms I have ever had the pleasure of staying in.

Like most of the best hotel’s, The Montagu Arms Hotel believe it’s the little touches that make stays so special, so they provide freshly-brewed tea or coffee brought to you with their compliments, a beautiful little box with delicious flapjacks, scented goodies from The White Company, and fluffy bathrobes for every guest.

Each room is different, with some including four-poster beds, and every one is designed to make you feel completely at home. The luxury suites feature freestanding baths, walk-in drench showers, Nespresso coffee machines, and a complimentary decanter of seasonal gin.

The hotel can be enjoyed throughout the year, as in the spring and summer the flowers are stunning in the Gertrude Jekyll styled gardens, where you can listen to the pond fountain designed by Giuseppe Lund, play a game of croquet on the upper terrace or take a look at the kitchen garden and wonder about what garden inspired dishes you will enjoy later in the day, whilst

in the winter you can settle down and relax in front of a roaring fire.

One of the major attractions of a hotel like The Montagu Arms Hotel, is the culinary delights that await you, and The Montagu Arms Hotel offers two main options, The Terrace restaurant and Montys Inn.

The Terrace restaurant, that is situated within the main house, offers an unparalleled dining experience overseen by Executive Chef, Daniel Burrell, who has over 15 years of experience working in top restaurants across the UK, and has spent time spent in Spain and France.

Overseeing a team of 12, Daniel is responsible for the development and execution of the hotel’s menus for both its fine-dining restaurant The Terrace, and its quintessentially British pub Monty’s Inn, creating rich, English dishes, using the finest local ingredients with touches of innovation, to create an exciting range of flavours, textures and aromas.

We had a fabulous dinner at The Terrace, and enjoyed Chicken Liver Parfait and Chicken and Ham Terrine, followed by Stuffed Courgette Flowers, and the most dreamy Mushroom Risotto, that was rich and indulgent and totally delicious. We were tempted by the Chocolate Fondant for dessert, but instead chose a selection of British cheeses that completed our delicious meal perfectly.

If you have enjoyed a few more calories than you normally would, or you fancy relaxing in a different environment, you can

head 6 miles up the road to Brockenhurst, to The SenSpa at Careys Manor, The Montagu Arms Hotel sister hotel, for a swim or gym session, a relaxing massage or treatment, or to enjoy their fabulous hydrotherapy suite, which we have enjoyed several times in the past, and did again whilst staying at The Montagu Arms Hotel.

We did do a review of Careys Manor last year that can be read online on www. theamericanhour.com in our Spring 2022 issue, so we were absolutely delighted to head back and enjoy their swimming pool, and spa facilities.

Use of the pool and jacuzzi are complimentary, and the hydrotherapy area and spa facilities are available at preferential rates for guests of The Montagu Arms Hotel.

Do take time to take a stroll through the beautiful streets of Beaulieu, where you will find quaint coffee shops with outdoor seating, ice cream parlours and few little boutique shops. You can also walk around the lovely Beaulieu Millpond where you will find horses and ponies, and other interesting wildlife.

We thoroughly enjoyed our night at The Montagu Arms Hotel, and left feeling relaxed, refreshed and wanting to return very soon.

For rates and special offers and events, please visit www.montaguarmshotel.co.uk The Montagu Arms Hotel, Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire. SO42 7ZL

Tel: 01590 612324

Central Reservations: 01590 624467

DAYS OUT WITH THE FAMILY

Hever Castle, Edenbridge, Kent

Hever Castle is one of my favourite places to visit with my family, as it has history, great play areas for children, a lake where you can hire a boat, a lovely shop and tea room, and beautiful gardens to wander around or picnic in, as well as activities and special events throughout the year.

English history is littered with amazing stories of skulduggery and betrayal, and Hever Castle has played a key part in some of the more lurid stories. Hever’s history spans more than 700 years as it was built in 1270, but the real interest started in the 15th and 16th Centuries when it was the home to one of the most powerful families in England, the Boleyns.

It was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, one of the most famous Queen’s of England, whose affair and eventual marriage to Henry VIII sparked scandal, as well as the birth of the Church of England when Henry renounced Catholicism. The Henry VIII connection was then renewed when another of his wives, Anne of Cleeves, owned the castle.

This colourful episode in English history is expertly handled on the tour of the castle, and you get a real feeling of what life would have been for the Anne’s before one of their lives was brutally cut short (at the age of 29). Radio guides and curators in the rooms provide you with additional information, so by the end of your tour you and your children will be experts in this fascinating period of history, along with knowledge of the torture instruments used in the day, and the workings of the castle toilets in the 15th Century!

Hever Castle has not rested on its historical laurels, and has turned itself into an entertaining family day out, as in addition to the truly beautiful castle there are other attractions which will keep the most demanding of children occupied for hours. I am not sure that wonderful gardens ever kept me amused as a child, but whilst the adults enjoy the design and colours of the various gardens, children can play hide and seek in the less formal areas which lead you away from the castle and down to the lake. For those budding Steve Redgrave’s there are rowing boats for hire, or for the more sedate, pedalos. A quick tip - before venturing into the heart of the lake, go left from where you set off, past the pagoda and row/pedal down a narrow water way as you get a lovely view of the castle from the water, and if you are lucky see ducklings and cygnets paddling through the lilies.

Children are well catered for at Hever Castle with a water maze that will result in a wet rebuke, and there is only one way to reach the centre and keep dry, but I suspect that for many it is more fun to get wet! For the older children there is also an adventure playground with a fort, ropes etc., which will not only keep them occupied, but tire them out, leaving you free to enjoy the stunning grounds and all the ornamental gardens.

If that wasn’t enough, Hever Castle has a host of events throughout the year, so

keep an eye on their website and you will be treated to a wide range of events including jousting tournaments and a host of other medieval activities.

The castle did fall into disrepair over the years, but was lovingly restored by the Astor family in the early 1900’s, and the magnificent gardens and lake were constructed along with the ‘Tudor Village’, now called the Astor Wing, where you can stay. I am sure this is the most historic B&B in the UK, and along with the sumptuous bedrooms it allows you to enjoy Hever’s

grounds and castle before and after all of the day visitors have arrived and left which is a real treat.

What also makes Hever Castle special, is that all the staff you meet really love what they do and where they work, and that love is infectious and will leave you marvelling at Hever’s history and beauty.

For further information, please visit: www.hevercastle.co.uk

Hever Castle, Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

TRAVEL

Devon, Featuring Thurlestone Hotel, Thurlsetone, Devon

For those of you who love obscure facts, Devon is the only county in England that has two separate coastlines, one of them being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the other one falling within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so you are never too far away from an incredible beach to either swim, relax, explore rock pools or go for walks on, but Devon has so much more to do than just that.

It must be so frustrating for the Devonians that many tourists who travel South West drive straight through Devon to get to its better-known neighbour Cornwall, rather than taking in all Devon has to offer. Much has been written about many of Devon’s well known sights including Dartmoor, Plymouth and Exeter, and believe me they are all worth visiting, but in this article I want to provide you with a few of Devon’s lesser known attractions to visit, both man-made and natural, as well as a wonderful place to stay whilst enjoying them, (the Thurlsestone Hotel) as Devon is easily reachable from the rest of England either by air (into Exeter Airport), train or by car, via the M3 or M5, and has something for everyone.

English Riviera

Devon is primarily known for its beaches and is home to the English Riviera (made up of the towns of Brixham, Torquay and Paignton), where you can either relax with the family on the extensive blue flag beaches, or if nature is more your thing, you can find a stretch of stunning coastline recognised by UNESCO as a Global Geopark, created over 400 million years ago, which provides stunning walks along some of the most striking coastline in the world. Part of this Global Geopark is the Kents Caverns, which allows visitors to marvel at the extensive caves which were home to ancient humans, shaping tools and

hunting Ice Age animals, and experience a little of what life was like all those years ago. www.kents-cavern.co.uk www.englishriviera.co.uk

Agatha Christie’s Hideaway

On the banks of the River Dart sits Greenway House, which was the beloved holiday home of Agatha Christie, Britain’s most famous mystery writer. Visitors can walk through the rooms and gardens where Agatha dreamt up many of her complex plots for her books, and it is also the home of her Steinway piano (you may not know Agatha trained as a concert pianist, but was too shy to perform in public!). www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/ greenway

Torre Abbey

Torre Abbey, near to Torquay, was founded in 1196, and became the wealthiest English Monastery of the order of Premonstratensian Canons. It survived almost intact from Henry VIIIth’s closure of churches (apart from all the roofing lead he took!), and remained the family home of the Cary family until 1930, when it became an award-winning visitor attraction housing an impressive art collection boasting over 600 works of art from the 18th Century to the present day. Throughout the year Torre Abbey also holds a programme of contemporary art exhibitions which has included such luminaries as Antony Gormley and Damian Hirst so check what is on and plan your visit accordingly. www.torre-abbey.org.uk

Castle Drogo

Famously, the last castle to be built in England, Castle Drogo was built between 1910 and 1930 by the architect and garden

designer Edwin Lutyens, for the wealthy owner of Home and Colonial Stores

Julius Drewe. It is near the village of Drewsteignton (near Exeter), and walks take you down to the beautiful Fingle Bridge beauty spot with its ancient bridge across the bubbling River Teign.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/ castle-drogo

England’s Only Breeding Wild Population Of Beavers

This one really is a secret, and well worth the effort to try and see these wonderful creatures! It is unknown where they came from initially, but in 2008, a population of beavers were found on the River Otter (not sure why they haven’t renamed the river now!), which was unusual as these gentle and cute creatures had been hunted to extinction in the 16th century for their fur. In 2014, it was discovered that they had bred and given birth to kits. On this discovery, the UK Government initially planned to have them removed from the river, but the animal loving public was not happy, so now England’s only breeding wild population of beavers is watched over

Greenway House, the residence of Agatha Christie

Torre Abbey

Castle Drogo

Beaver

by Devon Wildlife Trust, and there are eight family groups living on the River Otter. You cannot visit the project itself without a formal invitation, but you can see the beavers and the dams they have built along the 12 mile stretch from Budleigh Salterton to Honiton.

Lundy Island

In this world of technology and electronic gadgets, we all dream of getting away from it all and heading somewhere far, far away to relax and forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As it turns out you don’t need to travel too far away, 10 nautical miles to be exact, to get this peace and tranquillity and to reacquaint yourself with nature on the Island of Lundy. Lundy is the largest island in the Bristol Channel and has a residential population of only 28 people, but has a much larger population of seabirds, marine wildlife and even deer.

You can visit Lundy on a day trip to experience this wild and rugged unspoilt outcrop, or if you want to get the full experience, there are a number of holiday properties to stay in so you can enjoy the tranquillity when all the day trippers have left.

Lundy is not only known for its population of Puffins and Grey seals that live on the island, but visitors can also enjoy a variety of dolphin species and sometimes Minke whales and leatherback sea turtles. Lundy is also unique as it doesn’t have any wifi, no television, and no phone reception, so you truly can get back to nature on this unforgettable island.

www.landmarktrust.org.uk/lundyisland/

Steam Railway And River Cruise

Everyone loves the bygone age of Steam, and when this magical mode of transport is combined with a river cruise down the picturesque River Dart, and an open top bus journey, you have a truly memorable day exploring the South of Devon.

You start with a bus journey from Paignton to Totnes, a quaint Devon town known for its environmental and sustainability credentials overlooked by a Norman motte and bailey Castle. From there you take a relaxing 1½ hr river cruise down the River Dart to Dartmouth where you can enjoy the plethora of shops and cafés before taking the ferry across to Kingswear, where you take the steam train back to Paignton - a great throwback to how train travel used to be, and this trip will certainly be a firm favourite for the whole family.

www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk

Torcross Beach/ Slapton Sands

On top of being an extremely picturesque and popular beach, Slapton Sands and Torcross hides a moving bit of history that is forever commemorated by a memorial and a Sherman Tank.

On the night of 27th April, 1944, 946 American Servicemen died during Exercise Tiger, the rehearsals for the D-Day landings on Utah beach, Normandy, which was more than died in the actual landings. Slapton Sands was selected to practice on due to its similarity to the beaches in Normandy, and heavily ladened landing boats sailed from Plymouth to land at Slapton, but unfortunately a number of German e-boats intercepted their radio communications and torpedoed the boats sinking two, and killing hundreds of American servicemen. Adding to this, to make the practice as realistic as possible, live ammunition was also used which killed many others, contributing to the large casualty list.

To commemorate one of the worst training exercises of all time, a memorial of a Sherman Tank, recovered from the sea from a sunk landing craft, sits at Torcross, along with a memorial thanking the people of the area from the American people for leaving

their homes to keep the practice exercise secret. Reading the names of all those who perished and realising that they all made the ultimate sacrifice to keep the world safe is sobering, and well worth a visit.

www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk/places/ torcross-and-slapton-p440973

Burgh Island

Burgh Island is a tidal island which is accessible at low tide by a strip of sand which is completely covered at high tide. This enables visitors to walk to the island at times, but at others you need to reach, or leave the island, by a unique sea tractor that ploughs through the waves.

The island has a few buildings on it, the largest being an art deco hotel along with 3 private houses, and the 14th century Pilchards Inn, that serves tasty food and drink.

The island is closely linked with Agatha Christie who often visited and stayed at the island, and the island inspired two famous novels, ‘And Then There Were None’ and ‘Evil Under The Sun’.

There are many footpaths for keen hikers over the island to enjoy the wildlife and the stunning views.

www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk/things-to-do/ burgh-island-p1541123

Lundy Island

Sherman Tank

Slapton Sands

Puffin

Steam Railway

Thurlsetone Hotel

As part of our visit to Devon we needed somewhere to stay to enjoy all that Devon has to offer, and there is nowhere better than the Thurlestone Hotel. Based in the little village of the same name, in South Devon, west of Thurlestone, it takes its name from the famous arched-shaped Thurlestone Rock, just offshore in Thurlestone Bay.

Thurlsetone Hotel is the perfect place to stay for both couples and families, and has one of the homeliest feelings from a topclass hotel that I have ever experienced. This may be due to the fact that the hotel has been run by the same family for over 130 years, and it was very evident that many of the families staying at the hotel are regular visitors and return year after year.

We were shown to our immaculate and spacious room, that had a very comfortable bed, and all the amenities a guest could ask for, plus a partial view of the sea (many have wonderful views over the bay).

Luckily for us, the day we stayed at the hotel, the sun had come out and the temperature was around the mid-20’s, so we spent a very pleasant few hours lying on very comfortable sunloungers around the outside pool, whilst looking at the most beautiful view of fields and the sea that is a short walk away. There is an outdoor restaurant by the pool, and a bar where drinks and snacks will be brought to your lounger. It really has the feel of a top-class country club, and is one of the many reasons we personally will return to the hotel, and clearly why most of the guests are return visitors.

The amenities for families continue. There is a fabulous indoor pool that looks like it has just been renovated although it hasn’t, and this just reflects the quality of the hotel, with everything being spotless and very welcoming. The indoor pool can be found in the spa area of the hotel, which is where guests who fancy some pampering can find a wide choice of treatments, although early booking is recommended.

Outside in the hotel grounds, there is a croquet lawn, tennis courts, and a 9-hole pitch and putt golf course, where we spent an hour practising our short game, although a few of the holes are long enough to enable the shorter hitters to get their driver out!

The hotel is also linked to Thurlestone Golf Club, and they do offer complimentary rounds of golf on this stunning links course, where nearly every hole has a view of the sea, and Thurlestone Rock. You can hire golf buggys or trolleys, and do beware of the walkers when you play, as the area is very popular with dog walkers. Unfortunately, when we were there, we were unable to play golf on this course, so the hotel very kindly arranged for us to play at Bigbury Golf Club, which is about 20 minutes away and another great golf course. Discounted rates are offered here by the hotel, so if you fancy a round or two on lovely links courses, with stunning views, don’t forget your golf clubs!

Thurlestone Hotel continues to amaze, as it also has a fabulous children’s room, in fact the best I have ever seen in a hotel, with a large screen, dvds, games, and table football. The room is so great we even spent about 20 minutes there playing table football ourselves, and we had no children in tow!

Guests staying at the hotel dine either in their award winning Trevilder Restaurant, where diners can enjoy spectacular views out over the sea via ceiling to floor windows, that also provide wonderful light to the art deco room. The food provides seasonal fare, but if you prefer something a little lower key or a pub classic you can eat at the Village Inn Pub, that is also owned by the hotel.

The room choices are wide, but my recommendation is to splash out a little and book a luxurious suite with a balcony overlooking the sea and the surrounding coastline, as you will never tire of the view. Every room has a luxurious bed, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities and lovely fluffy towels (a firm favourite of mine).

Although the facilities are modern, Thurlestone Hotel’s attitude to its guests is a throwback to bygone times, where guests are friends, and this personal attitude and attention to detail is so welcome it is not surprising guests come back year after year, and having now stayed once, my wife and I will certainly be returning, as it really is that good!

Thurlestone Sands, Kingsbridge, Devon, TQ7 3NN

Telephone: 01548 560382

Website: www.thurlsetone.co.uk

AMERICAN CLUBS’ NEWS

KCWC - Kensington & Chelsea Women’s Club

KCWC is a vibrant community of friendly, dynamic women from over 50 countries who enjoy London life to its fullest! Join us to fill your diary with exciting events in the company of new friends, like expert-guided museum and walking tours, a Latin dance class or tennis lesson, coffee mornings or evening cocktails, cooking classes, a night at the theatre, and so much more.

You’re invited to be our special guest at the autumn General Meetings on October 6th or November 9th, where you can meet the KCWC community, hear high-profile speakers, like award-winning interior designer Alidad, and learn more about our fantastic member activities and benefits. Register today at info@kcwc.org.uk, or visit KCWC.org.uk to view our events calendar and learn how you can be a part of London’s premiere women’s social club for over forty years. We look forward to meeting you!

CAWC International

CAWC International had a busy time at the end of the Club year. In May we held our annual Tea Party in the gorgeous surroundings of Great Missenden Abbey. Members decorated themed tables and a delicious Afternoon Tea was served, and members had the opportunity of visiting the grounds and the walled garden. In June we held our end of year celebration aboard a Mississippi paddle steamer. Leaving from Henley, members enjoyed a four-hour cruise on the Thames in glorious weather which also included a delightful lunch on board.

The new Club Year for CAWC International started on 1st September, and the Board has been busy during the summer break organising activities and events for members.

For further information, please contact: cawcpruk@gmail.com.

AWC London

Are you looking to expand your connections and make new friends? Explore new interests or discuss current events? The American Women’s Club of London provides a wide range of programmes and social networks for our diverse membership of 250+ women, along with opportunities to serve others in the London community.

We have welcomed over 60 new members since the start of the year! Join us!

AWBS International Women’s Club

Welcome to AWBS International Women’s Club – where culture, camaraderie, and community unite. Established in 1981 as an American women’s club, today we are a vibrant international community with 300+ women from 46 countries. Whether you’re new to the UK, a returning British expat, or seeking international friendships, AWBS extends a warm welcome.

With over 25 monthly activities, we cater to all passions and interests. From tennis, golf, and horse riding, to country walks, English history and art appreciation, to exploring all that London and Europe have to offer – there’s something for everyone. Our signature General Meetings feature renowned speakers and local vendors, creating unique experiences every

month in some of Berkshire and Surrey’s most stunning venues.

AWBS has woven a strong philanthropic thread into our fabric, nurturing local charities. With over £150,000+ donated in the last decade and £650,000+ since our inception, our impact is profound, bolstered by countless hours of volunteer dedication.

Join AWBS to connect with accomplished women offering friendship, support, and fresh possibilities. Reach us at membership@ awbs.org.uk. Learn more at www.awbs.org.uk and follow our journey on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

AWS International Women’s Group

AWS International Women’s Group welcomes new members from near or far to the Surrey area!

Whether you have just landed or have been here for 20+ years, AWS International Women’s Group is here for you. We have been welcoming members from all over the world for over 45 years and are proud to represent over 37 nationalities.

Based in Surrey, we’re here to create social connections and support for expatriates, while also providing philanthropic support to local charities. We would love for you to join us!

We have a wide variety of events and activities - everything from English hikes and pub lunches, to art gallery tours and date nights. Come meet new people, share passions, explore gardens, visit historical attractions and so much more!

Our members and sponsors have a wealth of information for you as well; they can help you to obtain a driving license, move house, find a dentist, obtain healthcare and much more. We are here to help you get the most out of what Surrey has to offer.

For more information visit our website AWSurrey.org or contact us directly at membership@awsurrey.org or president@ awsurrey.org.

USEFUL CONTACTS

CHARITABLE GIVING

CAF AMERICAN DONOR FUND

10 St Bride Street

London

EC4A 4AD

Contact: Joe Crome, Senior Manager, CAF American Donor Fund

Telephone: +44 (0) 3000 123 150

(Telephone lines are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm excluding UK bank holidays).

Email: cadf@cafonline.org

Website www.cafonline.org/cadf

With over 20 years’ experience, we are the smart, tax-effective way for dual UK and US taxpayers to achieve greater impact with their charitable giving.

The CAF American Donor Fund is a dual qualified Donor Advised Fund which can help you maximise the value of your gifts to charitable organisations. If you pay tax in the UK and the US, the CAF American Donor Fund enables you to claim eligible UK and US tax relief on your global giving, including adding 25% through UK Gift Aid where applicable.

We have a range of flexible products available, starting at one-off giving through to long-term invested funds. We accept donations of cash (any major currency); stocks and shares as well as non-cash gifts.

Whatever stage you’re at with your philanthropy journey, we can help. Our specialist team of Relationship Managers will be with you every step of the way to guide you quickly and efficiently throughout the management and administration of your giving, using our established and trusted service.

EDUCATION - SCHOOLS

gain acceptance to their first- or secondchoice university in the US, the UK, and worldwide. Extensive summer opportunities are also offered to students from all schools. Located close to London on a beautiful and historic 46-acre estate.

TAXATION

BUZZACOTT LLP

130 Wood Street, London, EC2V 6DL

Contact: Carlo Gray

Partner - Expatriate Tax Services team

Telephone: +44 (0)20 7556 1200

Email: enquiries@buzzacott.co.uk

Website: www.buzzacott.co.uk

Buzzacott is a top 20 UK accountancy firm in London, with a team in Hong Kong. For more than 50 years, our dual-qualified US/UK tax experts have helped individuals, companies, partnerships and trusts to comply with everincreasing tax regulations and minimise their tax liabilities. We specialise in preparing US/UK tax returns and providing bespoke advice tailored to individual circumstances. Rely on us for exceptional service with empathy and authenticity.

EXPAT LEGAL SERVICES GROUP

Website: Expatlegal.com

Telephone: +1.888.502.8579

Contact: Roland Sabates

Email: roland@expatlegal.com

Expat Legal Services Group, with its background in international taxation, offers unique legal services for American expatriates and foreign nationals with financial interests in the United States. We leverage a suite of modern technology solutions that enable us to bring our international expertise directly to you no matter where in the world you might be living.

The core of our expertise at London & Capital is managing investments for wealthy families and our clients generally share similar requirements; they have amassed wealth or capital and now need it to be structured and invested in a way that preserves and grows it for the future.

We build investment strategies that are designed to be resilient and help clients achieve their long-term financial goals. Many of our clients are international, with finances, business interests, property and family across multiple countries. We provide clear comprehensive financial strategies and global reporting regardless of currency or location.

US CONNECTED FAMILIES AND INDIVIDUALS

We are also one of the few wealth managers who actively welcome US clients and are both SEC (US) and FCA (UK) regulated, with a dedicated team looking after the wealth of international American families since 1989. Whether you are a US Citizen or Green Card holder living abroad, a British expat in the US or a foreign entity with US reporting, we are uniquely positioned to work you to organise your wealth into a coherent global strategy, invest with a focus on capital preservation and provide clear, concise global reporting.

MASECO PRIVATE WEALTH

Burleigh House, 357 Strand, London, WC2R 0HS

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Email: enquiries@masecopw.com

Website: www.masecoprivatewealth.com

TASIS

THE AMERICAN SCHOOL IN ENGLAND

Coldharbour Lane, Thorpe, Surrey, TW20 8TE

Contact: Sarah Travis

Telephone: 01932 582316

Email: ukadmissions@tasisengland.org

Website www.tasisengland.org

The educational pathways TASIS England offers to day (3-18) and boarding (13-18) students include a broad-based American curriculum, AP courses, the International Baccalaureate Diploma, and EAL support. Taught in small classes, every student in our diverse community from 50 nations is encouraged to reach their academic potential. Participation in co-curricular activities, the arts, athletics, and leadership programs provides balance, fosters curiosity, and develops Individual talents. With excellent exam results and one-to-one college counseling, 97% of TASIS graduates

USTAXFS

3 Harbour Exchange Square, London, E14 9GE

Telephone: +44 20 7357 8220

Contact: Joni Trulock

Email: j.trulock@ustaxfs.com

Website: ustaxfs.com

Twitter: @ustaxfs

With over 35 years’ experience, our US/UK expat tax specialists provide US and UK tax return preparation, planning, compliance, and expatriation as well as all US business tax services, wherever you are in the world.

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

LONDON & CAPITAL

Two Fitzroy Place, 8 Mortimer Street, London, W1T 3JJ

Telephone: +44 (0) 207 396 3200

Email: invest@londonandcapital.com

Website: londonandcapital.com

MASECO Private Wealth gives peace of mind by providing expert guidance to US families on how to simplify their cross-border wealth management needs. We serve and care for Americans living at home or abroad through the planning and implementation of rational, practical and tax efficient wealth management strategies.

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