No matter the season, couples are always searching for the perfect romantic getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of city living. And recently, Airbnb put together a list of the most beautiful (and affordable) romantic escapes on offer in Australia, New Zealand and Asia. Whether you're looking for quaint forest treehouses, luxurious ocean view villas or a country cabin, this list of getaways has you covered. Pictured left is forest retreat in New Zealand, right is a luxury getaway in Indonesia and inset is a piece of paradise in the Philippines. ...read ...read
So how does YOUR loaf rate?
So how does YOUR loaf rate?
IN FEMAIL TODAY...
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- The beach hack EVERY parent needs to know this summer
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THIS WEEK WE'RE LOVING: SUMMER BAGS
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It would be safe to say that this Cult Gaia bag has been *the* must-have social media accessory of 2017. It's almost impossible to scroll through your Instagram feed without this amazing handbag popping up in at least one - or ten - pictures, so it should come as no surprise that the brand keeps selling out of the famous design, which is available in small ($128) and large ($138), as well as in an assortment of colors. Needless to say we plan on adding several to our closets before the summer season is over.
Who doesn't love adding a personal touch to their favorite accessories? We can think of no better way to inject some fun into your favorite summer bag than by decorating it with one of your favorite words or phrases, whether that's a nickname, an Instagram handle, or even your phone number (just us?). This customizable clutch from Poolside ($175) offers you the ideal opportunity to put your stamp on a stylish summer accessory, and is the perfect alternative to a classic straw beach bag. The only issue? Deciding what word to go for...
There can be no chic-er way to carry around all your beach essentials than in this straw indigo&lavender; tote from Madewell ($60). Whether it's a bunch of flowers from the farmer's market, or a soggy towel and damp bikini, this beautiful bag will ensure that you look effortlessly stylish, whatever your cargo.
Excuse us for a moment while we swoon our socks off at this amazing bag from Naghedi, on sale at fitness favorite Bandier ($210). Putting an oh-so chic spin on the more traditional woven basket bags, this vibrant tote is made out of strands of neoprene, making it an incredibly durable everyday bag. Plus it comes complete with a matching cosmetics case for all of your make-up must-haves. And if blue and orange isn't your favorite color palette, never fear - it comes in pink and blue, and black and white, meaning there is an option to suit every style.
Pom poms - check; chic bamboo weave - check; perfect basket shape - check. We're not sure there's much more you could ask for in a summer bag, to be honest, and that's why we have fallen hook, line, and sinker for this adorable accessory from Mehry Mu (€555). Also available in a more bright and bold rainbow option, the Fey Basket Bag is our idea of the perfect warm weather tote, combining functionality with fashion and fun in a totally unique way.
These days you would be hard pressed to find a fashion lover who hasn't heard of/lusted after/desperately searched for an Hermes Birkin bag. The leather handbag is arguably one of the most sought-after style items in the world and, undoubtedly, one of the priciest purses on the market. However, we are thrilled to report that there is a new Birkin on the block, and it comes in the form of this chic Le Birkin Basket, an adorable bucket-style bag that is inspired by the basket bag the Jane Birkin carried during the 60's and 70'. Available in four sizes and starting at just $99, this handcrafted handbag shot to the top of our wishlists the moment we laid eyes on it - bumping even the iconic Hermes Birkin from that number one spot.
We're not sure about you, but when a fashion item is so popular it flies off the shelves and becomes impossible to get hold of, that just makes us want it even more. So is the case with Bembien's amazing Rose Bag ($185), a perfectly proportioned purse that has proven so successful it has sold out entirely and won't be available again until August. Does that stop us from lusting after it, however? Absolutely not - in fact we're pretty sure we were the first people to whack our name on the waitlist. Now we're just busy counting down the days until August...
When it comes to summer sayings, 'long live the beach' is about as perfect as it gets - so why not wear it loud and proud on your handbag during the warm weather season? And the seasonal slogan isn't the only thing that this bag from Madewell's cute collaboration with Surfrider Foundation ($79.50) has going for it. Handmade from sustainable abaca straw, and roomy enough to fit all your summer essentials, it can serve as the perfect go-to bag, ideal to reach for on an everyday basis - as well as all those summer beach days.
We all scream for this adorable ice cream bag from Buji Baja by Hat Attack ($78). A super sweet design that will inject the perfect dose of whimsy into your summer ensembles, we just can't get enough of this fun-filled accessory.
This cute-as-a-button basket bag from Reese Witherspoon's fashion range Draper James ($195) is fun, fashionable, and - thanks to the cute mirror concealed in its lid - incredibly functional. The pink and blue accents mean it will add a fun boost of color into your outfit, while the dual straps mean it can be worn in a variety of ways and with a whole host of different ensembles. Unsurprisingly, it's selling out quick, so many sure you snap yours up now - while you still can...
You don't need to break the bank in order to snap up a stylish summer bag this season - just opt for this chic backpack from Claire's ($34.99) and land yourself a fashion-forward piece for a very wallet-friendly price. Roomy enough to house all of your everyday essentials, the Aztec print will add the perfect dose of fun to your summer outfits.
If a classic option is your bag (get it?) then look no further than this nautical-themed basket from Vineyard Vines ($138). Complete with beautiful blue embroidery detail and pom pom embellishments on the front, this colorful bag is a must-have for any beachgoers this season.
Without a doubt the most interesting and unique piece on our summer bag wishlist is this #TheRoadWeTravel Backpack from Joey Wolffer ($265). Made from patchworked vintage traditional Indian Banjara fabrics, each one of these backpacks has its own individual look - a truly one-of-a-kind find. Fill it full to the brim with anything and everything you might need for a fun-filled summer adventure, or throw it on as a beautiful accessory with just your wallet and a few make-up bits inside. Either way, it's sure to steal the show this summer.
How could you fail to be totally captivated by the neon pink tassel on this cute Eloquii number ($59.90)? Needless to say it drew us right in, and this bag quickly found its way onto our lust list. Wear it in any number of ways - to the beach, to a barbecue, or even on a fun night out with friends. Whatever the occasion, this bag is sure to add some colorful flair into your ensemble.
MUST READ
Age is nothing but a number! Grandmas strut their stuff down the runway in bikinis for China's senior swimsuit competition
More than 400 men and women aged 55 and over competed in the Grandbikini, which was held at a water park in Tianjin on Saturday. Ma Jing, a 78-year-old cancer survivor, was the oldest competitor. Seniors got a chance to walk down the runway, which was in a pool, before posing for the judges. Winners were selected based on their stage presence, smiles, and gestures.
WHERE TO EAT THIS WEEK
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By day, it's Redroaster, an ultra-hip coffee spot in Brighton. But by night, it turns into Pike & Pine: and that's when the magic starts. Run by Matt Gillan, who has appeared on Great British Menu twice and won it, you have the choice of a table or sitting on the pass and watching the chefs in action - much like courtside seats at a basketball game. It was fascinating watching them plate up and we were salivating. We chose the eight-course tasting menu (£65) and almost every dish was like a flavour explosion in your mouth. Highlights though were the mushroom and fregola (like a risotto), the delicious pigeon caesar salad, and melt-in-the-mouth pork rump. A shout out though for the fluffy homemade bread. The accompanying wine flight (£45) matched every dish exquisitely. The perfect place for a special occasion dinner - or even a midweek indulgence.
IMOGEN BLAKE
The sun was beaming down and the temperatures were high as my friend and I sat outside at The Salt Room, overlooking Brighton's long pebbly beach. What a perfect location for some of the best seafood in the country. I started with the Rock Pool, a collection of mussels, crab meat, langoustines and even an oyster in a refreshing cold clear soup that let the flavours of the seafood shine. It tasted like the ocean. We then tucked into half a lobster - meaty, buttery, delicious - and a delicate piece of hake. After such sophistication, the fun and silliness of the Taste of the Pier dessert was welcome and there is more than enough for two here: a cherry '99, jam doughnuts, raspberry and white chocolate fudge, a gooey marshmallow, chocolate pebbles and a large stick of candyfloss. The perfect end to a meal that really epitomises Brighton in all its glory.
IMOGEN BLAKE
Treat your loved one to one of the best afternoon teas in London at the Chelsea Harbour Hotel. My friend and I felt like royalty as we sat down in front of the gorgeous view of the harbour itself while a pianist played live music in the relaxing restaurant. My vegetarian friend was brought her own plate of off-menu sandwiches with no fuss, allowing us both to enjoy the well-seasoned fillings. The scones were warm and exactly as they should be, served with plenty of clotted cream and jam - and two each. The final tier, the cakes, was also generous with four each and a jelly - and I confess I was struggling by the end. Among the cakes included in the Wimbledon-themed tea by Whittard and served with Whittard drinks, was a fresh strawberry tart, a delightfully tangy Pimm's jelly and a mellow lime mousse. Two hours spent blissfully as we watched the world go by. It would make a perfect present. £22 pp, £30 with a bellini.
IMOGEN BLAKE
Hot, sunny days in London are rarer than perhaps many would like - and when they come, you can be sure millions will be flocking outdoors. Camino - the chain of Spanish tapas restaurants - has cottoned on to this and has opened up a special bar in partnership with Fever Tree serving refreshing Spanish cocktails that opens every evening at its Camino Bankside branch near the Tate Modern on the Southbank. They've called these drinks Spanish Serves, and they truly are a taste of the Mediterranean. Our favourite is its 5th Gin Fire - a bright pink gin infused with red fruits that is served with tonic and strawberry. It's peppery, sweet, and utterly delicious. We line our stomachs with some of Camino's famous tapas, including the crispy Calamari and the salty Padron peppers. But the star dish is the Presa Iberica - pieces of melt-in-the-mouth shoulder of Ibérico pig. A perfect spot for people-watching in the summer or a post exhibition drink.
IMOGEN BLAKE
Aperol Spritz fans, rejoice! The world’s most Instagrammable drink now has its very own night out. Thursday July 13 will see the biggest Aperol Spritz Social to date taking place in east London, and there’s no better place to enjoy the delicious orange-coloured aperitif. Guests can enjoy a ‘sunset spritz’ set with renowned DJ Norman Jay MBE, as well as one of the world’s biggest cicchetti (Italian small plates) spreads courtesy of Italian dining hall Forza Win. Diehard fans can even enjoy Aperol-infused ice cream, orange manicures and hands-on Aperol Spritz masterclasses with Italian bartenders. Tickets are free but you’ll need to sign up by midnight Thursday to be in with a chance.
UNITY BLOTT
Dine like a royal in the sublime settings of Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire. This grand abode - the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and now home to the Duke of Marlborough - boasts stunning gardens and gaping vistas. Keep your eyes peeled for events happening throughout the year. Most recently top caterer Searcys hosted a divine dinner in the palace's orangery and luxury perfumer Penhaligon's is set to run a mouth-watering afternoon tea over summer. A swift train and taxi ride from London makes this a doable trip to do in a day.
SADIE WHITELOCKS
It was a rainy night on the Southbank when we ventured to pop up king Jimmy GarciaÂ’s latest pop up, but with food this good itÂ’s impossible for the not-so-great British summertime to put a dampener on things. Diners cook the six-course tasting menu themselves on table-top BBQs, but itÂ’s nowhere near as labour intensive as it sounds. If you fancy channelling your inner chef then youÂ’re welcome to get busy with the timer and tongs, but the friendly staff will watch your lamb chops if youÂ’re too busy catching up to keep an eye on the grill. This is all about simple flavours with high quality ingredients such as hand-dived Dorset scallop with cauliflower, hazelnut and pickled red onion. The chicken thigh and chorizo kebab was worth going for alone, but be sure to leave room for two indulgent desserts in the form of pannacotta with BBQ pineapple and sÂ’mores. Go very, very hungry and you wonÂ’t leave disappointed.
SIOFRA BRENNAN
If you are looking for a typical curry then Vineet Bhatia London is not for you. However, if you are after an extraordinary adventure into Indian cuisine then I suggest you book immediately. Set in the heart of Chelsea this intimate restaurant offers an 11 course aptly named Experience Menu. From the moment you arrive you feel as though this is no ordinary A La Carte dinner from having to ring a doorbell to enter to being treated to a personal sommelier, eating at VBL is certainly out of the ordinary. And the food, my gosh! This restaurant has every right to crow about their dishes and slap a hefty price tag on top. Look out for the Raan Uttapam and the Glazed Pork Chop as you make your way through a meal that will have you binning every takeaway menu as soon as you get home – and you might need a taxi to do so, you’ll find you’ll be scraping your plates.
Martha Cliff
If you want to experience Italian food at its finest, then don't hesitate to book a table at Avista. Located at the Millennium Hotel Mayfair, it offers a seven-course tasting menu that is a homage to both seasonality and the country that has inspired the talented chef here. Every plate is worthy of an Instagram post in its own right. But the dishes don't just captivate the eye - they delight the tastebuds (and rightly so). Stone bass tartare is a fresh taste of the sea, while the glazed quail with goat's cheese is rich and moreish. Saffron and coffee tagliatelle sounds bizarre but is light and oh-so-Italian. But my favourite course was the smoked pigeon with celeriac and plum - earthy, meaty, and lick-the-plate good. Desserts were also a triumph - the deconstructed take on tiramisu in particular. This is Michelin star-quality food. It doesn't come cheap at £75 (£55 for vegetarians) - but for a special occasion, it's worth the blow-out.
IMOGEN BLAKE
Indian food hasn't quite managed to corner the lunch market yet, but Talli Joe believe they've cracked it with their new dabba menu - a three tier lunch box of home prepared, authentic cuisine. Each box comes with a half plate of a meat, fish or vegetarian dish, a side and a carb for a balanced meal. The Mangalore fish curry was rich and bursting with flavour, without being too heavy for lunchtime and the sides of south Indian pickle and coconut rice were the perfect complement. If youÂ’re feeling especially hungry, go for the laal maas, or lamb curry that comes with a flaky, deep fried pastry stuffed with peas and it will definitely keep you going until dinner. Served in pretty, colourful lunch boxes a lunchtime trip to Talli Joe, where the dabba menu changes daily, is certainly a lot more appealing than a tired sandwich!
SIOFRA BRENNAN
Being spoiled for choice often has bad connotations when it comes to fine dining with overloaded pub menu always regarded as a big no-no. However, Picture in Marylebone really know how to spoil a gal. Their six course menu changes from season to season but yet the premise remains the same – food you will want to wolf down in small enough portions to leave you wanting more. Not to be sniffed at is the A La Carte menu where diners are recommended to choose three dishes – not forgetting of course to start with the mouth-watering beef bites. What Picture can truly be applauded for is its positively charming members of staff whose welcome will be hard to compete with in the borough of Westminster. Visit this restaurant and you will notice table upon table of returning diners – eat at this restaurant and you will discover why.
MARTHA CLIFF
I've never been to the Duck and Waffle 'Proper' on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower. So when its fast casual cousin, Duck and Waffle Local, opened in Piccadilly earlier this month, I saw it as a more accessible way to try the food. It's a fast food style approach (meaning you can't book). The menu is at the till and you have to choose then and there. But it works - we were in and out in under an hour. The eponymous duck and waffle (we had to try it) for £12 is a bizarre combination, particularly with the fried egg and mustard seed-peppered sweet maple syrup. But that strangely works too. In fact, it's lip-smackingly delicious. Sides are good also. The £6 pickled and baked beetroot is a celebration of the vegetable, and I reccommend the sticky duck necks (only £4). With prices much lower than the flagship branch and service speedy, the D&W; Local is a great way to see what all the fuss is about.
IMOGEN BLAKE
With miniature plastic bento boxes littering the shelves of every supermarket, food hall and coffee chain it is easy to become jaded by not-so-authentic California rolls and lacklustre sashimi. And while good Japanese can be had at Yo Sushi for a truly excellent Omakase experience head straight to Kikuchi. So focused on quality is this restaurant that my first attempt to visit was foiled when the chef closed for the day after receiving a less than perfect fish delivery. While this may seem extreme the proof is in the pudding – or in this case the nigiri. Chef Masayuki Kikuchi delivers on the very freshest, melt in the mouth sashimi I have had since my return from Tokyo and not only is the food beautifully flavoured and presented it is among the rarest of haute cuisine – plentiful. The charming staff must also be commended on their expertise and friendliness right down to the ‘arigatou gozaimasu’ as you leave the door.
MARTHA CLIFF
Start your day on a high with the wellness breakfast at St. James’s Hotel & Club. The tucked-away Mayfair gem has a detox menu which is perfect as bikini season approaches. It includes a smoothie that was specially designed for Dita von Teese when she visited the luxury haunt. It was a little like sipping grass clippings at first, but the coriander concoction gradually got more drinkable as I persevered. Other treats include cottage cheese pancakes with smoked salmon and quinoa crumpets with baked banana. Even better, is indulging in the summery spread while lying in bed. The full wellness breakfast - three dishes and a green smoothie - is priced at £27 per person.
SADIE WHITELOCKS
If you're new to the world of fine dining, then Michelin-starred Kitchen W8 in Kensington is a good place to dip your toe. As soon as you walk in the door, you know you've entered somewhere special and my friend and I were at first conscious we hadn't dressed up for the occasion. But the staff couldn't be more welcoming and soon we felt as comfortable as if we were in a gastopub. The food itself is some of the prettiest I have ever seen. Scallop ceviche was dotted with delicious blobs (for want of a better word) of fennel and apple. My main, the chicken, was poached to perfection and ever so tender. But it was my friend's mouthwatering lamb that made both of us want to lick the plate clean. With a fresh-tasting, seasonal menu at surprisingly affordable prices, Kitchen W8 focuses on subtlety and cleverness than punchy and bold flavours. An excellent introduction to the world of posh grub.
IMOGEN BLAKE
- Rise above the rest! The best breads for nutrition and taste revealed... so how does YOUR loaf rate?
- 'We're trying to have babies with the SAME MAN': Identical twins who sleep in the same bed with their shared boyfriend reveal plans to fall pregnant with him
- From choosing your seat wisely to lounging for less: How to make flying Economy feel like First Class
- How to holiday with your ex (without killing him!Â): The divorced parents who take their children on their summer breaks TOGETHER
- From forest treehouses and country cabins to luxury oceanside villas: The most romantic (and affordable) Airbnb getaways in Australia, New Zealand and Asia
- The 'naked truth' about SWINGERS: Photographer goes behind the scenes at a series of sex parties to capture intimate details about the taboo community in very revealing picturesÂ
- 'I can see my hair getting thinner and thinner': Kayla Itsines reveals female pattern baldness runs in her family as she says she often wears a CLIP-IN ponytail
- The 'naked truth' about SWINGERS: Photographer goes behind the scenes at a series of sex parties to capture intimate details about the taboo community in very revealing picturesÂ
- Singaporean male model defies the ageing process with ripped abs and baby-face skin – so, can YOU guess how old he is?
- 'You don't like that song? Get over it!' Hilarious texts between neighbours reveal how people take liberties with those living next door - including playing loud music and begging for food
- It's a dog's life! From pole dancing to pay off loans to despairing at traffic jams hilarious Snapchats document canines who are more human than their owners
- Say ost! Swedish royal family gather in pastels for new portrait as they send out summer greetings (but it's little Prince Oscar who steals the show)
- The kids' menu EVERY parent can relate to: Restaurant translates whiny children's complaints into dishes (so if they’re 'not hungry', it means they want the chicken)
- Facebook erupts in fury after mother shares a shocking photo of herself smoking from a BONG - while breastfeeding her newborn baby
- MOST READ IN DETAIL
FEMAIL BLOGS
CELEBRITY STYLE WATCH... MARGOT ROBBIE
CELEBRITY STYLE WATCH...MARGOT ROBBIEIt isn't always easy to maintain glamour while at a festival but Margot hit the nail on the head. She mixes utilitarian essentials such as wellies and a rain coat with fun motifs and pops of colour to give her ensemble a high fashion finish. Here we show you how to bag her look for less...
Margot Robbie nailed the cool girl festival vibe at Glastonbury
SHAPE UP: The latest fitness news and products
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- Buy BRA-VO!
- Buy BAG FIT FOR ALL
- Buy MISSFITS PROTEIN
- Buy IT'S ACE
- Buy STYLISH SUPPORT
- CASH IN OLD TRAINERS
- Buy WIRELESS EARPHONES
- MASTER THE MARATHON
- Buy NEW BALANCE
- Buy RUN YOURSELF FIT
- TIME FOR TENNIS
- Buy FASHIONABLE FITNESS
- Buy HIKING BOOTS
- Buy PROTEIN ON THE GO
- Buy IGNITE YOUR WORKOUT
- Buy FE FITNESS
- Buy SCHOOL OF STRUT
- Buy BERRY BOOST
- Buy BRA-VO!
- Buy BAG FIT FOR ALL
Shhh! This is a man's bag but it looks great on gals too and its the ultimate bag for the gym or to take on long hikes. The carrier, made by the Alaskan luxury outfitter Filson can be used as a duffel or backpack with handy pull-out straps. It is crafted out of a lightweight nylon material that's perfect come rain or shine. Its roomy interiors include a padded compartment for a laptop and a 'mud proof' pocket for the more adventurous user. It is currently available from the Filson London flagship store with a UK website set to launch in August. We love the 'whiskey' colour but it also comes in 'otter green'.
The Multitasker from MissFits Nutrition is the first perfectly portioned, lean-pea protein shake designed just for women. Presented in a nifty single sachet, it will help you feel stronger and recover faster after a workout. With four flavours to choose from, Chocolate, Vanilla, Berry and Coffee, there's a treat for every taste bud - with no added sugars. The superfood sachets are also packed with cacao powder, vanilla beans, fruit and coffee beans. Suitable for vegans, the shakes are gluten and GMO free. Prices start at £16 for 12.
Looking for your tennis fix now that Wimbledon is over for another year? With 23,000 tennis courts available up and down the country, thereÂ’s no excuse not to dust off your racket and channel your inner Jo Ko! Head to GoHitIt.com to find your nearest facility. Hone your skills with one of the female-only Tennis Tuesdays sessions, or, ditch your usual gym class for some Cardio Tennis. The Great British Tennis Weekend returns this weekend (22nd/23rd July) for free fun tennis in clubs and parks around Britain. Come along for a taster of whatÂ’s on offer; see www.greatbritishtennisweekend.com for full details.
While all the workouts in the world might not be able to help you achieve the enviable physique of a Victoria's Secret model - you can at the very least steal their sporty style courtesy of Pink's chic new range of sports bras ($24.95 each). Show off your figure to full effect in one of the flattering and colorful designs, all of which are sure to have you eagerly awaiting your next trip to the gym.
Ever wondered that to do with your old running trainers? Instead of throwing them in the bin or keeping them buried at the back of your closet, you can now recycle them thanks to Runners Need. The running store are inviting people to bring their old trainers in to their stores across the country from October 9th to be recycled. As an extra incentive, anyone bringing old trainers in before 9 November will get a £20 voucher to spend in store towards a new pair. Visit www.runnersneed.com/about-us/recyclemyrun.html for more info.
iFrogz Charisma are a brand new type of fitness headphone. They're wireless, bluetooth, sweat resistent, lightweight, and have been designed by female athletes to suit the needs of active women. They deliver solid bass and chiming highs for awesome sound. £29.99
Sportswear brand New Balance just opened its European flagship store on London's Oxford Street (near John Lewis) meaning we can all look amazing in the gym. Shop for your new workout outfit in the largest New Balance store in the world, which stocks the full range of products over three floors, including running, football, the uber-cool lifestyle ranges, women's tech training and even kids' shoes.
If you want to start running to get fit in 2016 and don't know where to start, then buy a copy of Run Yourself Fit, out now published by Summersdale. The book is written by former editor of Women's Running magazine Christina Macdonald, who practises what she preaches having completed a number of races from 5k to marathon distance. The beginner-friendly tome has training plans, tips and advice on how to avoid injury. RRP £6.99
Fashion blogger extraordinaire Danielle Bernstein of We Wore What lent her sensational sense of style to a workoutwear collaboration with Strut This, available exclusively at Bandier. And while all of the pieces are sure to wow your fellow gym-goers, it's this marble-print sports bra ($88) that has our heart all aflutter. Stylish and comfortable, it's a must-have for any and all fashionable fitness fans out there.
Structure, stability and suspension define this women's hiking boot, designed for all-around trail comfort while you head further past the horizon. It's reinforced at the heel and toe, and the high-traction, low-profile lugs let go of debris for lighter travel. KEEN WOMEN'S APHLEX WATERPROOF BOOT, £119.99
Ignite is a new ebook from fitness expert Julia Buckley, the author of the bestselling, The Fat Burn Revolution. The series of six 30-minute workouts claim to deliver astonishing fat loss and fitness gains after just four weeks. Best of all, you don't need to join a gym as you can do all the workouts in the comfort of your own home.
A slick new gym in the City will make sure you stay on track with your progress - because if you don't, you may be suspended. You can sign up for their 12-week Metamorphosis Membership at Fe Fitness for a reduced rate of £960. As if you needed more motivation. In January, it goes up to £1,450.
In this sassy dance class attendees, aka 'strutters', are taught a dance routine while wearing trainers. But once the routine has been mastered, they can slip on their high heels if they wish! There's some strut practice (the strut-off) and then the routine is performed in heels. It's designed to help women find their inner diva and embrace their femininity. Find out more about Strutology classes, launching soon, as well as how to become an InStrutter Trainer, on Zoe McNulty's website.
9BAR have introduced a new fruity flavour to their range of energy bars. Carob Hit Chia Berry combines sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, hemp and chia seed and the flavour of raspberry and a chocolate carob coating. It's high in fibre, vegan-friendly, gluten-free and made with no artificial colours or preservatives. RRP: £10.80 (16 x 50g
When it comes to choosing the perfect ensemble for your next sporting adventure, nothing could be more important than finding the ideal sports bra to provide you with ample support - while also adding a fashionable flair to your outfit. Enter Aerie's latest sports bra offering, a chic zipped number ($39.95) that will not only ensure total comfort, but also inject some extra style into your look. Snap (or zip!) it up quickly, and who knows, this chic addition to your workoutwear wardrobe may provide you with the extra boost of motivation you need to hit the gym...
IN GOOD HEALTH TODAY
- WE INVENTED OUR WAY BACK TO HEALTH: How these patients' clever DIY wheezes could now help you too.. including bunion busting shoes
- HOW TO TELL IF YOUR LOVER, BOSS OR FRIEND IS A PSYCHOPATH: And how to make sure they don't destroy YOU - as the Mail's psychiatrist explains
- THE VERY UNUSAL WAY TO GET RID OF A GUT INFECTION: Pat explains how a radical bacteria transplant tackled her illness
- WHY ARE WOMEN BEING DENIED A 25p THYROID PILL?: Ellen tells of her fears she will no long get liothyronine tablets
- BULL'S EYE!: The dramatic reaction to a tick bite... and why it's a sign of Lyme disease
DON'T MISS
'We just clicked': Couple who were set up with TWELVE possible partners in one night at a roaming dinner party on how it led them to finding the one - and now they're getting married
Sophie Walker (pictured left, right and inset), 30, from Sydney, met her fiancé, Shannon (right), at a roaming dinner party during which she met twelve possible partners (inset). She spoke to FEMAIL about the experience and why it works. 'We just clicked,' she said of the night they first met (inset). 'Shannon was the life and soul of the party, which I liked.'
FASHION AND BEAUTY FAVOURITES
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Jo Malone London's Iris & Lady Moore Charity Candle will brighten up every coffee table. For every candle sold the beauty giant will make a donation directly to their charity partners equal to 75% of the retail price (less VAT). Gardens are at the heart of communities all over the world and represent a major source of inspiration for Jo Malone London. The brand support people living with mental ill health through the cultivation and care of therapeutic gardens. Each garden is a place to recover, grow and reconnect with a community. A peaceful, safe haven for rehabilitation.
L'Oreal Paris Paradise Mascara has made its way to UK shelves after becoming an overnight success in the US. The slick mascara helps give your lashes intense volume and spectacular length. The ultra-soft brush coats lashes with a silky smooth formula and it's enriched with lash-loving castor oil.
Monsoon has unveiled an exciting new homeware collection called HOME that was made right here in London. Handcrafted by artisans, the 80-piece range takes inspiration from global destinations combined with a contemporary design aesthetic. Think knitted throws in gorgeous hues, plush velvet cushions and beautifully carved mango wood trunks.
From oils to cooking ingredients, AldiÂ’s new range of coconut products launch in store this week. The delicious healthy superfood has long been praised for its versatility and benefits, and now, from Thursday 20th July, you can enjoy all the goodness this humble nut has to offer, at truly humbling prices.
Taking the humble mud mask to luxurious new heights, this Vital Clay mask by Immunocologie harnesses the healing properties of raw French green clay, to deeply cleanse and refine pores. It delivers a cocktail of minerals and antioxidants via a special Vital Oligo Science system that mimics the skinÂ’s own metabolic process to protect and heal the skin from environmental aggressors. The ultimate kiss of life for congested, stressed and fatigued complexions.
If you're looking for somewhere to chill out away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Landmark London Spa is the ideal retreat. FEMAIL can highly recommend the Mediterranean by Candlelight massage, which uses energising crystals to calm the body and mind. The warm wax from the candle is poured over the body and massaged in to reduce tension and relax the mind. For ladies looking for a skin boost, try the Diamond Noir Facial, which uses stones, crystals and minerals to boost youth in an instant.
For a deep skin cleanse, Skin Republic Bubble Charcoal Face Sheet Mask is our go-to. The purifying bubble face mask sheet is made from Activated Charcoal. When exposed to air the oxygenating mask begins to bubble and foam diving deep into the skinÂ’s pores eliminating impurities, while Fruit Acids exfoliate dead skin cells for a bright, fresh and luminous complexion in an instant.
She's the ultimate beauty guru and Charlotte Tilbury has yet another hit on her hands. Meet her Unisex Healthy Glow Hydrating Tint, which brings tired skin to life in an instant! The beauty buff, who every A-lister has on speed dial, says: 'My Healthy Glow tinted moisturiser features ingredients for healthy, natural glowing skin. This fabulous unisex cream is SO natural, no one will suspect youÂ’re wearing it!' Buy one for yourself - and your man - this summer.
Stationery addicts, rejoice! The Time is Now collection from kikki.K is now available online - and it's full of chic deskside staples. We love this gorgeous B5 Daily Notes Pad complete with gold foil detailing. With allocated space to plan your day by the hour, note top priorities and tasks to do, enjoy the calm that comes with being organised.
NeoStrata Bio-Hydrating Face Cream is ideal for ladies with problem skin. The super-charged emollient and nourishing cream reduces the visible signs of aging, repairs the barrier function of skin while delivering long-lasting hydration. Use it alongside the brand's Oily Skin Solution - a gentle tonic with oil-controlling properties that clarifies oily and acne-prone skin.
'Yeah I did it!' The heartwarming moment a mother sees her newborn baby girl for the very first time is captured on camera by photographer
A photographer captured the moment an Australian woman met her baby girl for the very first time (right). Amanda Shenk, 40, chose to have the natural birth of her daughter, Chloé (left), photographed seven months ago. 'wanted someone to be able to capture the moment of "yeah I did it" in all it's glory so that was where the initial motivation came from,' she told Daily Mail Australia.
From 'makeover mirrors' to virtual reality and HOLOGRAMS: The clever new retail technologies set to make your shopping experience a breeze
Tech specialists, including a number of talented Australians, have created some new technologies that will change the face of retail in the coming months and years. Ahead of the Online Retailer Conference and Expo in Sydney on Wednesday, FEMAIL has rounded up some of these exciting new inventions and looked at how they will improve your shopping experience. They include virtual reality (left), mirrors that record your makeover (centre) and holograms (right).
FOOD, RECIPES & COOKING
SUPER SALMON recipes by Signe Johanson for the Norwegian Seafood Council, www.seafoodfromnorway.co.uk
Click on image for recipe
FOOD BITES: This month's wish list
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Aldi is introducing a small range of strictly adult-only lollies which are infused with the flavour of classic alcoholic drinks. At just £2.99 for a four pack, the popsicles come in two flavours: Gin and Tonic and Peach Bellini. With a 4.5 per cent ABV, these lollies are just for those 18 and over.
Outer Space Vodka is a five times distilled, premium vodka that has been filtered through a 4-billion-year-old meteorite and then decanted into a very unique alien-inspired bottle. Outer Space Vodka launched in the U.S. just 18 months ago, the brand is now available in 42 states and has gone on to sell over 40,000 cases. It is now launching in the UK for £34.95 - and we're awaiting a sample eagerly.
Lindt launches two new bars into its premium Excellence range: Intense Raspberry and Roasted Hazelnut. Both are dark chocolate bars infused with their respective flavours. Both went down a treat in our FEMAIL taste test - though the raspberry was the winner in our books. Available in supermarkets or lindt.co.uk at £1.99 each.
It's not exactly synonymous with the healthy trend for vegetarian and vegan dishes, but now classic pub group Harvester has launched an entirely vegetarian and vegan menu. It features eight new dishes, including Harvester's first ever vegan dessert: a coconut and raspberry rice pudding. The new menu means it is now possible to have three courses of entirely vegan fare.
It's the biggest food festival in the UK: London Food Month, in June. And the crescendo of the foodie paradise is the Night Market, where food trucks, street vendors and entertainers will gather to feed and entertain as many as 10,000 people. Experiences include making your own Bloody Mary at The Ketel One Vodka Kitchen. Get your tickets now, £15 for adults.
Naked Juice have launched a range of cold-pressed drinks in flavours including 'lively carrot,' 'bold beet,' and 'bright greens'. The juices are a blend of up to seven different vegetables and fruits and are designed to refresh and invigorate. On offer at Sainsbury's for £3 a bottle.
Morrisons have launched a new range of blended wines called Workshop. The range includes a blended Chardonnay to pair with roast chicken or salmon; a blended Viognier; a blended Shiraz; and a blended Merlot.
A new branch of healthy fast food chain Leon where the staff are all trained singers has opened in the West End of London. The cafe staff will not only serve burgers to the hungry masses, but also occasionally break out into song. Leon said it wanted to give a platform for up-and-coming talent.