twitter instagram linkedin
  • Home
  • Contact
  • Topics
    • Beauty
    • Food + Drink
    • Lifestyle
    • Home + Interiors
    • Fashion
    • Health + Fitness
    • Travel
    • Relationships + Dating
    • Business, Education + Finance
    • Blogging Tips
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy Policy
  • Features

● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

GUEST POST| Eating, sleeping and drinking can usually be found at the top of most student’s list of priorities. Students aren’t known for being flush with cash though, so although sleep is free, food and drink can make a big dent in their student loan or wages from a part-time job. 

There are ways to get free food though and below we’ll share five ways everyone can get free food, not just students. 

food buffet

Mystery Shopping/Dining
Have you ever fancied being a spy? Then mystery shopping is for you. Mystery shoppers go undercover to report back on a restaurant’s food, service and facilities and in return you’ll get your meal paid for and sometimes a bit of cash on top. Yes, that’s right - you’ll be paid to eat. You don’t have to limit yourself to mystery shopping for food - all kinds of companies use mystery shoppers to find out if everything’s as it should be but as this article is about free food, that’s what I’m concentrating on here. 

If you fancy giving mystery shopping a go and getting some free food, just Google ‘mystery shopping’ and you’ll find dozens of agencies you can sign up with. As an added bonus, if you take along one of your housemates in your student accommodation for a free feast, they’ll love you forever and maybe cook you something in return - meaning more free food for you! Just be aware though that you’ll be reimbursed for your food, not paid in advance, so remember to keep all receipts as you’ll need them for proof. 

Shopium App
The Shopium app contains a regularly-changing range of items for free or heavily discounted at all the major supermarkets. Download the app and have a look at what they’re offering in your local supermarkets either in-store or online. If there’s anything there you like the look of, buy it, scan the barcode, upload a photo of your receipt and Shopium will reimburse you within a couple of days. 

Olio App
The Olio app is like a Freecycle for food. People in your local community who hate waste give away their leftovers on Olio. When I say ‘leftovers’, I don’t mean you’re getting the scrapings from their plates but, for example, if someone’s got too many carrots in their veg box (which is every single person who’s ever had a veg box) and don’t have any horses nearby, they can offload them to a carrot-loving neighbour. 

It’s not just local residents who are using the Olio app though. Restaurants, retailers and bakeries are all getting on board with volunteers picking up the leftover goods from the stores and uploading them to the app for anyone to claim. A friend of mine got a whole case of Hellmann’s mayo on Olio. True story. 

Foraging
Foraging works better in the countryside rather than cities. You won’t find many blackberry bushes in central London, that’s for sure. But if you are in a more rural location or you fancy a day trip somewhere green, do a spot of foraging for free food that’s as fresh as fresh can be. 

Although some things are easier to spot than others, e.g. blackberries or wild garlic, some things you will need to know what you’re doing before picking them unless you want to poison yourself, so take someone knowledgeable with you. Also, it’s a good idea not to forage on busy roads that have spewed exhaust fumes all over the bushes or had dogs going about their business on them. 

Shoplift It
If you’re really desperate, you can always shoplift your dinner. This is obviously a joke. Do not do this. Do not steal your housemate’s food from the fridge either.

These are just five ways to get free food but, if you dig around, you’ll find plenty more. And, of course, there’ll be loads of restaurants, bars and cafes in your area offering student discounts as well as lots of ways to save money when you shop online. 

What other ways have you got free food before?
12:00 1 comments
AD| People all across the world are becoming more environmentally-conscious, more eco-friendly and helping to contribute to a more sustainable way of living. By making some changes into your day to day lifestyle, not only are you helping to protect the environment, you can even save you money at the same time. Here are some easy and small changes you can make in your everyday life to help live a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

eco friendly recycling

Recycle Where Possible - This is probably one of the easiest and quickest ways to become more eco friendly and make a bigger impact on the environment. Recycling simply prevents the waste of potentially useful materials and allows them to be reused and made into something else. Materials like plastic bottles, glass jars, paper, cardboard and metal can all be recycled and reused, helping to decrease the amount of landfill waste and allowing these recyclable materials are reprocessed into new products.

Avoiding Single Use Plastic - Eliminating single use plastics from your life is a perfect place to start and is something that doesn't have to be hard work to maintain. Some changes that can be easily added to your day to day life include investing in a reusable water bottle, using metal straws, purchasing loose fruit and vegetables, using reusable canvas shopping bags for your weekly shop. The list is endless, but just adding a few of these to your normal routine will slowly begin to help the environment.

Less Food Waste - Being more mindful of the food we purchase and consume can have a good impact on our environment, as well as your bank account. One of the simplest ways to avoid food waste as a consumer is to buy less. Simply things like batch cooking/freezing, trying out new recipes with ingredients you already have, checking your cupboards for ingredients before going food shopping, writing a shopping list, and even growing your own food can help you become more eco-friendly and eco-conscious.  

insulated home

Replace Old Windows / Insulation- Investing in new double-glazed windows can help to make your home more energy efficient - meaning that your home retains more of its heat, and you'll save money on heating. Good insulation means you don’t need to burn energy reheating the home all of the time. As well as changing existing windows, insulating your walls, roof and flooring can have a big impact on keeping your home warm and can save you money in the long run. Three Counties Windows specialise in windows, doors and conservatories, offering high performance and cutting edge technologies to get the best out of home improvements.

Turn Off Electricity - Another simple task that can be done everyday, and help you save money. By checking all appliances, electronics, light switches and plug sockets are turned off when not in use or when leaving a specific room of the house that isn't occupied. We can also draw open the curtains and use natural lighting to keep our rooms lit up and save electricity this way.

Hang Clothes Out To Dry - Avoiding using the tumble dryer is a perfect way to save money on your electricity bills as tumble dryers are one of the most expensive appliances to run in the home. When we get the occasion sunny warm autumn/winter day, it's a great opportunity to allow your clothes to air dry on the washing line.

Invest In A Compost Bin - By simply having a compost bin in your garden, you can recycle your food waste and turn them into compost. There's so many food items that can be composted, you would be surprised. From potato peelings, banana skins, egg shells and much more, this tip will have you cutting food waste dramatically and help you make your own compost for your garden.

What changes have you made to become more eco friendly at home?
14:31 1 comments

AD| Dubai is an international destination known for its diverse multiculturalism, the wide variety of elaborate traditions and cultures, as well as the range of cuisines available there, and these definitely represents that. With Dubai being one holiday destination on my travel bucket list, it's definitely a place I've dreamt about visiting and have done plenty of research into things to do and places to visit. 

 Not only does the warm weather, phenomenal views and luxurious lifestyle making Dubai such attractive and must-visit destination, but the extensive range of food is what draws me in closer. From middle eastern food to Indian meals to north African to Asian and much much more, there's such a diverse selection that it's definitely any foodies heaven!

dubai

Through extensive research, recommendations and website visits, I've compiled a list of some of the top restaurants that I would love to visit when holidaying in Dubai. I've included a variety of cuisines as I'm not too fussy when it comes to food, to emphasise the diversity of flavours that Dubai restaurants have to offer and can accommodate everyone's eating preferences.

MEZZALUNA
For lovers of authentic Italian flavours, Mezzaluna will be the perfect restaurant for you. Head down to this Dubai Festival City based restaurant serving a selection hand-crafted, regional Italian specialties. With a spectacular menu bursting with some of the best Italian dishes, made with the finest ingredients sourced throughout Italy, it's one not to miss out on!

ASIL RESTAURANT
Located at Rixos Premium Dubai, this fine-dining styled restaurant merges a blend of Lebanese, Moroccan and Turkish cuisines, making it the perfect dining experience for loves of middle eastern cooking. Asil blends innovation, elegance and tradition in they way they they present their food, décor and musical style.

SOUL STREET
Based at FIVE Jumeirah Village, Soul Street is home to some of the best new authentic gourmet street food you can find in Dubai. Incorporating dishes from all over the world from places such as Latin America, India, Levant, Europe and Asia. As well as great flavoured food, Soul Street is also home to live DJ performances and the best of international street art, making it an exciting, and unforgettable experience.

BEBEMOS
Bebemos at Le Meridien, Dubai is a Spanish themed tapas restaurant, perfect for those who love a range of vibrant, and mouth-watering flavours. This Spanish restaurant brings a range of exotic favourites; from the North's seafood to Central Spain's roast meats.

MAIDEN SHANGHAI
Located at FIVE Palm Jumeirah, this restaurant high quality, authentic Chinese cooking. Drawing from Cantonese, Sichuan, Shanghai and Beijing influences, Maiden Shanghai aims to revitalise Chinese culinary traditions. With such a wide variety and extensive menu, Maiden Shanghai brings the real taste of Asia to the heart of Dubai.

To summarise, if you're a foodie like myself, this could definitely be the next holiday destination to add to your future travel bucket list. Dubai hosts such a selection of beautiful restaurants, from middle eastern, Italian, Indian and African restaurants, even steakhouses and European cuisines, so there is bound to be something for everyone!
 
Have you visited Dubai? What is your favourite cuisine style?

10:00 No comments
AD - GIFTED | Gousto is a food subscription box service that brings you quality, simplicity and variety, with 30+ recipes a week to choose from to create your very own recipe box. You get to pick something exciting from the recipe selections each week, and have all the ingredients delivered to your door. How great is that?! 

No more wandering around the supermarkets for hours getting inspiration and selecting what you will eat for dinner, you can simply log onto Gousto and pick whatever you fancy or try something you wouldn't usually go for.

gousto box

How does Gousto work?
- You pick from over 20 recipes a week. You also have the option to pause or skip boxes whenever you like, so it completely up to you when and how often you receive your food delivery.

- Gousto deliver to you perfectly measured ingredients, any day of the week, that allows this subscription service to fit in with your lifestyle.

- You cook get to cook new and impressive meals that you’re proud to share with the people you love, as well as your Instagram!

Below are the 4 recipes that I have chosen to receive in my box, and I can't wait to get stuck right in! With Gousto, you have such a variety of recipes to decide from; wholesome, adventurous, vegetarian, meat and fish. For me, this is a great idea. I love to be adventurous when it comes to cooking, so getting to pick new recipes and try new ingredients is perfect. That's what is simply great about Gousto, there is always something new and fresh to pick from, you'll be spoilt for choice!
gousto box

When your recipe box arrives, it has everything you need to cook up to 4 delicious recipes that you have picked from the website. Your box will come with insulated packaging to keep food cool, this is perfect if you aren't at home when your box is delivered, as your food is guaranteed to stay cool and fresh until you get home.

 You'll receive all the ingredients for the recipes, and they are perfectly measured from trusted suppliers, helping you to have no food waste! Also containing you easy-to-follow recipe cards to help you prepare and cook your dish with step-by-step instructions, what more could you want?

Have you used Gousto before? What recipes would you love to try from the site? 
10:00 No comments
I am going to be sharing 5 simple tips, that you can incorporate into your everyday life, that can get you on your journey to leading a healthier and fitter lifestyle! I am no way an expert in this field, but what I have learnt in the past, is what I shall be sharing with you!

healthy workout routine

1. Walk, Jog, Run, Cycle (if you have a bike), Its Free!
A great way to keep fit and healthy, is to do exercises such as walking, jogging, running and cycling, which can all cost nothing and can be done any time and anywhere. This is perfect for those who don't have time to use the gym, have a small living area or have lots of commitments, which means they just don't simply have the time. Even taking the stairs instead of the lift/escalator, getting off the bus a stop early or walking to the shops etc, can all add up to your daily exercise and help you to become that little bit fitter and healthier.

2. Plan Your Food Shop and Weekly Meals
I'm sure we all know how stressful and time consuming weekly shop can be sometimes, but writing a list and making a plan is an easy way to make this chore more enjoyable. Planning a weekly menu can help reduce food waste in your home, as well as keep you on a diet plan/healthy eating schedule, as well as helping you to avoid distractions and purchasing anything that you don't actually need. You may even save yourself a little bit of money by planning your shop!

3. Use YouTube/Blogs For Inspiration
If you aren't feeling motivated or inspired by doing the same workouts each time or using the gym all the day, taking time to browse through YouTube videos or fitness blogs can help you gain some new ideas and new inspiration of things to add into your everyday life. I recently posted about using YouTube as a workout inspiration guide, and shared some exercise videos that can be done in the comfort of your own home. 

4. Boost Your Metabolism
There are many different ways to boost your metabolism, which helps to burn calories and help with weight loss. Eating more protein is the simplest way of increasing your metabolic rate. Food such as eggs are a great source of protein and beneficial saturated fats, as well as salmon which is highly enriched with Omega 3. Another idea is to replace your snacks with small handfuls of nuts, which makes your digestive system work harder throughout the day and therefore use more calories. By seasoning our food with spices such as chilli, ginger and turmeric, these are great metabolism boosters that aid to burning calories and aids weight loss. Also, eating little-and-often is a beneficial in the role of helping to maintain a healthy weight and keeping hunger/snacking at bay.

5. Use Home Furniture For Workout Equipment
Working out at home doesn't have to cost a fortune, and neither does your equipment. If you're on a tight budget, don't have time to hit the gym or just find exercising hard to fit into your schedule, using home furniture/interiors/objects can help you with your workouts. You could use tins and cans as weights, use your stairs as a step up, use chairs or tables for exercising, as well as spacious floor space.

If you missed part one, you can view that post here.

How do you get fit and healthy at home? What tips and tricks do you have?
13:00 No comments
AD| Plastics are causing a multitude of issues in our oceans and natural environments, ultimately contributing to health problems in humans and animals. They can last around in the environment for such a long time; with specific plastic items can take up to 1,000 years to decompose - causing problems with threatening wildlife, spreading toxins, and contributes to factors such as global warming. 

Becoming more eco friendly at home, living a more sustainable life and helping preserve the environment may seem like it can be a lot of work, but by changing a few parts of your daily routine can make such a big impact. Whether you start to recycle paper, glass and plastics, purchase loose fruit and vegetables on your weekly shop or even use sustainable coffee pods, all these small changes really add up in the long run.

environment

 An easy switch for many of us coffee lovers would be being more careful with the type of plastic coffee pods we purchase for our coffee machines. Just by spending a few minutes researching about the materials used in an everyday items like coffee pods, and making sure they are biodegradable and sustainable will help protect the environment. 

Switching to a brand like Halo coffee pods is a small change with a big impact. They sell their products with the claim - "The world's best coffees, in a way that's best for the world". The founders of Halo are on a mission to not only make great coffee but also to rid the world of discarded plastic and aluminium coffee capsules. With its fully recyclable range of coffee capsules made from waste sugarcane, these coffee pods are super eco-friendly, will degrade in as little as four weeks and you'll still end up with a greatest tasting cup of coffee.

halo coffee pods

Single use plastic pollution is probably the most widespread problem in our current ocean and marine ecosystem. Marine species such as turtles, birds and fish are ingesting/entangled by plastic debris such as straws and food/drink containers, which causes severe injuries and can lead to a significant amount of deaths. Not only does this affect ocean health, this type of pollution can also affect food safety and quality, human health, coastal tourism, and contributes to climate change.

As well as single use plastics, microplastics also have such damaging effects on people, animals and the environment. Microplastics affects our food chain,  including the soils where we grow food, in the water we drink and the air we breathe. Ingested microplastic particles can physically damage organs and expose hazardous chemicals, leading to health and environmental problems.

As a whole, I think it's important that we act differently, efficiently and be more knowledgeable around environmental issues in the world and how we can be more eco friendly at home. By changing small parts of our routines, research into new products or adapting the way we shop, these little steps can have a big impact on the world around us and help to change the way we deal with products/materials in the environment.

What changes have you made to be more eco-friendly and to help the environment?
18:18 No comments
AD| With Springtime ahead, I'm dreaming already of my next Summer Holiday. An ideal chance at a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, and swapping it for some sun, sea and sand. If you're looking for a great place to book your next vacation, Holiday Gems* might be the one for you. A great website that has everything you need to book your next holiday destination, with your flights, hotels and transfers included, Holiday Gems offers an independent and impartial travel service tailored to your individual needs.

Let's rewind to May 2017. I visited the beautiful, picturesque Greek island of Zakynthos, however you may know it as Zante, for a relaxing few days. Located in the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos offers plenty of activities for all ages, relaxing by the beach, boat tours or even a trip to Laganas for your next night out, a perfect destination for your next holiday, with bright blue seas and perfectly soft sand, Zakynthos is Instagram heaven. 

Kalamaki Beach Hotel Zakynthos
 
On my visit, I stayed in the beautiful beach town of Kalamaki, situated on the islands south coast. An ideal destination for those wanting a relaxed and peaceful getaway, but also giving you the chance to visit places including Zakynthos Town and Laganas, only a short taxi ride away. I stayed at the Kalamaki Beach Hotel, an amazing, small hotel located within 2.5 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens with magnificent views over the lonian sea, and only a few footsteps away from the gorgeous sandy beaches. Kalamaki Beach Hotel boasts a great poolside snack bar, an on-site taverna and cocktail bar, swimming pool and sun loungers too.

Kalamaki Beach Hotel Zakynthos

Kalamaki Beach Hotel Pool Zakynthos

Kalamaki Beach Hotel Breakfast Zakynthos

Kalamaki Beach Hotel Pool Zakynthos

One excursion that we stumbled upon was horse riding with Nanas Horses; A small family run business catering for both beginners and expert horse riders, allowing you to enjoy some outdoor activity, whilst taking in the stunning scenery around Kalamaki. We booked to go to Nana's Horse riding through the hotel we stayed at, and were kindly picked up and dropped off back, even though it was only a short car ride away. We opted for a 1.5 hour long trip, which saw us ride through fields, alongside the road and ending upon the beach at sunset, which was an absolutely amazing experience which beautiful views. So if you have an afternoon spare, I would highly recommend a short horse riding trip, a great holiday experience and a great way to take in the picturesque views of Kalamaki.

Nana's Horses Riding Excursion Kalamaki

Kalamaki Beach Zakynthos

 One of our days consisted of a tour of the beautiful island, allowing us to view some of the amazing sights of Zakynthos and learn all about history and culture of the island. One stop along the island saw us having breath-taking, panoramic views over Zakynthos Town. Further along the tour, we stopped off at Strani Hill, overlooking the plains of the island, walking though the olive trees, and arriving at the statue of Dionysius Solomos, a Greek poet from Zakynthos.

A View of Zakynthos Town

Dionysios Solomos Statue Zakynthos

I also visited the world famous Navagio Shipwreck Beach, a tucked away little cove in the north of the island, with a beautiful pristine beach and crystal clear waters probably one of the most famous beach in Greece and can only be accessed by boat. The iconic image of an abandoned, rusty shipwreck washed upon the pure white sands is something not to be missed when visiting Zakynthos. On the boat ride back to the port, we spent some time the Keri Caves, a group of sea caves and rock arches on the coast of Zakynthos, a place with some of the deepest blue coloured water I have ever seen. 

Navagio Shipwreck Beach Zakynthos

Navagio Shipwreck Beach Zakynthos

Navagio Shipwreck Beach Zakynthos

Navagio Shipwreck Beach Zakynthos

Zakynthos Blue Caves

Lastly, is to mention the absolutely amazing Greek food that I had tasted during my stay. Kalamaki hosts some amazing restaurants and places to get some delicious Greek cuisine. We dined at the Kalamaki Beach Hotel on-site Greek Taverna, tucking in to some tasty Greek Gyros, Greek Meatballs, Spinach and Feta Parcels and Homemade Red Pepper Hummus, washed down with a fruity Strawberry Mojito!

I also dined at the Paolo Restaurant in Kalamaki, an amazing, warm welcomed place to eat, with affordable prices and super friendly staff. I opted for the traditional dish of Souvlaki; a popular Greek fast food consisting of small pieces of meat grilled on a skewer. Another restaurant I dined in on my trip was The Family Restaurant, with a fabulous meal and great hospitality, it's one not to miss out on.

One night we headed into Laganas, another beach resort on the island famous for its nightlife; a definite place for the youngsters with various lively bars and tavernas, it's a must visit. A quick food stop in Peri Heaven, Zante's equivalent of Nando's. Amazing food, great portions and really affordable. Afterwards, we headed to the lovely Angels Bar for some quick cocktails, a great place to start your night out if you will be heading to the Laganas strip.

Kalamaki Beach Hotel Taverna Zakynthos

Kalamaki Beach Hotel Taverna Zakynthos

Kalamaki Beach Hotel Taverna Mojito Zakynthos

Paolo Restaurant Kalamaki Zakynthos

Peri Heaven Laganas Zakynthos

So whether you're looking on planning your summer holiday, or would just like a short weekend break, Holiday Gems has a wide range of low cost holidays to choose from, with an amazing selection of destinations available to suit all tastes and budgets, you can book your next break to suit all your preferences, without breaking the bank!
11:00 No comments
 AD| Improving your dental heath and sustaining healthy teeth really does takes a lifetime of care, but can be fairly straightforward if you follow a good routine. It's important to take the necessary steps in your daily routine in order to properly take care of your teeth and prevent any dental problems occurring in the future. Listed below are a number of easy ways in which we can all improve our dental health with a few simple lifestyle changes.

dental health

- Change Your Diet and Lifestyle -
The choices we make when it comes to what we eat and drink is important for those looking to improve their dental health. Eating too much of the wrong types of food and drink can cause tooth decay, and lead to poor dental hygiene. Leading a healthier lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and tracking your alcohol and sugar intake are all beneficial for good dental health. 

For those who have made poor diet or lifestyle choices, it can be extremely hard to get your white smile back after years of bad habits. Drinking certain drinks like tea/coffee and smoking can lead to tooth discoloration and bad breath. In this case, many people lacking confidence due to their bad dental health may look at getting help with cosmetic procedures to try and boost themselves. Many people opt for private dental cosmetic procedures or even dental treatments in Turkey due to their high-quality, affordable dental work, which is bound to get you smiling again.

- Brush Properly -
Aiming to brush your teeth after every meal clean away any food/debris from becoming stuck in-between your teeth and gums. The way in which we brush out teeth is extremely important. When brushing, you should ensure you take your time to make sure you cover all areas of your teeth, gums and tongue. Making sure to move your toothbrush slowly in gentle, circular motions will help to remove any debris, stains or plaque.

However, brushing your teeth too hard and aggressively, or even using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause damage to your teeth and gums. The effects of over-brushing can include many dental problems such as tooth sensitivity, damage to the protective enamel, and bleeding gums and erosion

- Visit Your Dentist Regularly -
Dentists typically recommend that you make an appointment to see your dentist at least every 6 months for a routine check-up. Many people often skip dentist appointments due to fear, costs or having no free time to attend, or even simply avoid going all together. Scheduling regular visits to your dentist are essential for the maintenance of your overall dental health, and both your teeth and gums. Regular dental check-ups can not only keep your teeth in a good, healthy condition now, but dentists are also able to check for any future issues that can be treated asap. Dentists can also recommend any treatments that they feel are necessary, including teeth whitening, braces and dental veneers, to help keep your teeth healthy and strong. 

- Consider Using Chewing Gum/Mouthwash -
For those of you who are constantly on-the-go and may be unable to brush your teeth after eating/drinking, chewing gum can help prevent plaque tooth decay, protect your teeth and promotes good oral health, as long as you opt for a sugar-free gum. Chewing gum allows your mouth to increase the amount of saliva that is produced, this then helps to neutralise some of the acid that forms when you break down food or drink, as well as rinsing it away. 

Incorporating mouthwash into your daily dental routine will give you that extra help when looking to remove unwanted bacteria/debris from inside your mouth. As mouthwash is a liquid, it is able to reach areas of your mouth that you may not have access to or you don't always brush. There are also specific mouthwashes available online and in-stores that may be able to help those suffering with bad breath and any unwanted dental problems.

What other ways do you look after your teeth and overall dental health?
10:00 No comments
AD| One of the most joyful yet saddening experiences is watching others around you celebrate another year of life. While the celebration itself should be a happy occasion, it can also be a reminder that everyone is growing up and will one day have a life of their own. Despite the bittersweet nature that this can bring, we all want to make each birthday memorable and fun.

birthday party

Sometimes, schedule conflicts can prevent proper advance planning. In other cases, financial woes may make it difficult to put all of the pieces of the birthday puzzle together ahead of time. Whatever the reason or cause, even a last-minute birthday party – when planned appropriately – can be an exciting and fun-filled experience. If you're in need of last-minute ideas and plans for a great birthday party, then keep reading.

Secure Your Funds
Before you can begin preparing for any birthday party, you need to have an idea of the budget – and of course, you need to have the funds. In many cases, waiting until the last minute is due to a financial struggle. There are ways to get around this, however. Take the concept of payday loans for instance. The payday loans that are available from a place like Cash Lady can be secured in virtually no time at all, can be customised for the exact amount needed, and easily paid back in the short term without a massive interest rate. If possible, you can also consider borrowing the funds for a birthday party from a family member or close friend. What's important is that you only borrow what you need and that you ensure the funds are there in time for the big day.

Ditch the Complexity
Planning a great birthday party often creates mental imagery that is beautiful, complex and dazzling. Ultimately, most last-minute planned events don't work out when focused on micromanaging everything. Whether it's the cake, decorations, other menu items, party games or even the venue itself, simpler tends to be better here. Children – younger ones in particular – can be easy to please: rather than making things too complex, focus on a few key points and strive to make them as great as possible.

Ask for Help
Putting together a great birthday party isn't just about securing the money and drumming up a plan: it also takes real work to make it happen! Since time is your enemy, asking for volunteers among family members and friends is an absolute must for creating the best party possible.  Whether it's help from grandparents or even a hand from your other children, never be afraid to ask for help at the last minute. An extra volunteer or two can make a huge difference in the outcome of the party, what gets done and how memorable the event is for your child.

Focus on Food, Music and Games
If you can deliver great music, fun games and delicious food, then the party itself is almost guaranteed to be a success (the only other concern is getting invites out!). If you have spare time to focus on any aspect of a birthday party, then put that energy here. Everybody loves music, games will ensure all of the guests are entertained, and good food will ensure both parents and children alike are happy. These three elements combined help make or break the party atmosphere and entertainment value of any birthday gathering.

The thought of planning everything at the last minute can be stressful and worrisome. However, planning the perfect birthday party can be done in relatively no time at all. By simplifying the process, focusing on the key ingredients of a good party, securing your party budget and asking for help, you can bring everything together quickly and efficiently!

How do you plan for birthday parties?
10:00 No comments
 AD| Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, many individuals have begun creating their own small businesses and opportunities to help them financially whilst struggling to survive due to job loss, reduced wages or being put on furlough. Running a small business might seem extremely easy, but did you know it can have a surprisingly big impact on the environment? Whether these businesses include selling homemade food, jewellery making, selling artwork or even offering online assistance, there are many ways to help your small business be more eco-friendly and sustainable for the future.

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS

For those small businesses selling physical products, using eco-friendly packaging is a great way to begin making your brand more sustainable. Packaging is an important visual part of your brand experience and it's how your customers first come into contact with your products. Having sustainable packaging is important as it helps to reduce the footprint in the product's life-cycle. By making it from biodegradable or sustainable materials, you’ll leave an even better impression on those consumers who choose to shop sustainably and want to make a positive impact on the environment. Companies such as Tyler Packaging are specialist suppliers of paper and plastic flexible packaging for items such as food, pet food, garden & leisure and industrial products. They also have a 100% recyclable packaging range and a compostable packaging range, with an overall strong focus on waste manage and encouraging a circular economy.

Another way to make your small business more sustainable is to aim to go paperless when it comes to invoices, delivery notes and receipts. By having everything online, with things such as billing and paperwork, it drastically cuts down on paper waste and keeps everything virtual, meaning important documents are less likely to get lost. However, there is definitely times where we need to physically write or type things onto paper, and for this, supplying your home or office with some sustainably sourced recycled paper helps keep your business eco-friendly.

For those who's businesses are ran from home or small offices, your working environment can also be made sustainable with a few easier steps. Firstly, by reducing the amount of electricity you use is not only good for the environment, it’s also good for your bank account. Making sure to switch off any lights or equipment whilst they’re not being used, use laptops as they use less energy instead of desktops, and make sure the temperature of the room is suitable for the time of the year. Another way to make your office more sustainable is by adding some plants and greenery to help brighten up your office, as well as helping to make the air cleaner and healthier to breathe.

Finally, making sure to research suppliers for your products, whether that's cooking ingredients, clothing fabrics or other materials, you should always be on the lookout for a more sustainable option. By making sure to keep your products as ethically and sustainably sources as possible, this will help to reduce your carbon footprint and make sure you're being as environmentally friendly as possible. Consumers of products are much more aware of the items they are purchasing, and many are opting to choose brands that do their best to protect and save the environment from unnecessary harm.

What other ways can small businesses become more sustainable?
10:00 No comments

AD| Starting to plan your summer holidays, but not sure where to travel to? Why not consider visiting Santorini, Greece.

One of Europe's most popular tourist destinations, Greece. This country is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world - Zakynthos, Mykonos and Santorini, to name a few. Santorini is probably one of the most instantly recognisable and iconic Greek islands out there. It's well known for its 5-star offerings, including luxury hotels, spectacular restaurants, high-end shopping, picturesque scenery, and delicious food, making it a great destination for a romantic getaway or a holiday to remember. If you're in need of some European holiday inspiration, here are 5 reasons to visit Santorini, Greece this summer.

santorini

Easy To Explore
 If you truly want to discover the islands' beauty, without paying expensive fares for each taxi ride, or local bus trip, you should consider renting a car in Santorini. There are plenty of car hire companies in Santorini to choose from, so always research ahead to ensure you get the best deals. Santorini is a relatively small Greek island, and driving from one side of the island to the other takes around 40 minutes. Having your own rental car whilst on the island can make your trip extremely easy and convenient, as you are in total control of places you visit and things you do. By having your own rental car, you can explore the island in the best possible way without worrying about public transport timings.

Luxury Hotels
The island of Santorini boasts some of the very best hotels in Greece. It’s always a good idea to pre-book accommodation when visiting Santorini. Some of the most popular places to stay on the island of Santorini include Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani. These towns are located along the caldera cliff on the western side of the island, boasting views of the famous volcano and caldera. Many hotels and apartments across the island of Santorini have simply stunning views of the Aegean Sea and if you're lucky enough, you could even find yourself booking a room with an infinity pool!

santorini

Architecture and Landscape
Santorini is incredibly photogenic, and wherever you are on the island, the views are just breathtaking. The most recognisable being the blue domes and white-painted cave houses, which is the iconic image of Santorini. As well as these, the volcanic island of Santorini is home to some of the world’s unique beaches, featuring volcanic rocks and sand, making it completely distinctive to travellers from all around the world.

Sensational Sunsets
One thing that Santorini is famous for is the spectacular sunsets you can view from all over the island. Your trip to the island of Santorini won't be complete until you physically witness the beautiful sunset. The town of Oia is known as the perfect location to witness the island’s infamous sunset.

Amazing, Fresh Greek Food
If you're a big foodie or like trying new cuisines, you'll love what Santorini, has to offer, for sure! You will find so many restaurants on the island, where you can try out a whole range of delicious Greek food. Here are just a few suggestions of the best foods to try while you are in Santorini;
— Saganaki; a simple Greek recipe of pan-seared cheese.

— Tomato Keftedes; fried tomato balls, with a combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and feta cheese, typically served as an appetiser. 

— Fava; probably the most famous and iconic traditional dish in Santorini. Another simple and healthy Greek dip appetiser consisting of yellow split peas, cooked with onions, garlic, and herbs.

Have you visited Santorini before?

20:00 No comments
AD| Traveling and going on holiday abroad can be extremely expensive if you fail to do enough research and come up with a detailed, planned itinerary. With many of us browsing online and looking to start booking summer holidays and trips away now some travel is allowed, you can already start saving some money before you've even left you're own home. There are so many decisions to make and things to consider when holiday searching, and sometimes you just don't need the added stress of everything happening all at once.

BEACH HOLIDAY DESTINATION

Before even thinking about going on holiday, the most important thing is to save up enough money to be able to afford the trip. You obviously want to make sure you are financially stable, and can actually afford to go on holiday. Make sure to set a budget for the total cost of the holiday, as well as for each day of your trip, will help you when it comes to planning and saving money. By having a set budget, this will help you when searching for your perfect getaway, as you have a price range to work with.

It's also really important to make sure to research your destination so you know what to expect when you get there. You will need to decide where you want to stay, the length of your trip and also find out what the weather conditions are like before you go. You can also look online to find recommendations and reviews of places to go and stay. This allows you to get real peoples thoughts and opinions, and you'll also be able to see where you should be spending your money.

A big way to save money when booking your holidays abroad is by being as flexible as possible with your travel dates. Traveling during off-peak times can be a lot cheaper than during the busiest times of the year, so if you have the time flexibility, it's worth looking at cheaper dates. You can also have a look at special offers and deals that travel companies offer that are scheduled for specific dates, so if you have full flexibility, this could be something to look out for.

FLIGHT TRAVEL

When you have finalised your travel dates and destination, you'll then want to go ahead and begin to book your flights and accommodation. During this stage of your booking process, you'll be able to research and find out if booking your holiday in a package or separately will be cheaper for you. I'd recommend using price comparison websites that can search the internet for flights and hotels, suiting your dates, time and budget.

If you're going to be exploring your destination by bus/tube/train etc, it may be more cost effective for you by buying travel passes for the duration of your stay. Depending on what you have planned for your trip, having a travel card already purchased can save you a lot of time and money, so you have more time to go sightseeing and and exploring. It can also be worth having if you decide upon some unexpected last-minute plans and venture out of the local area.

If your accommodation allows you to have access to a kitchen, that is an extremely easy way to save money once you're away. You can pick up your ingredients quite cheaply from local supermarkets and make your own food. However, if you are looking at eating out most of the time, why not get some recommendations from locals and enjoy local food and drinks. Many restaurants, pubs and bars are situated in very popular, tourist areas, and visiting these locations may be quite expensive. Many destinations will have places to eat and drink that are super popular with the locals and residents, so it may be worth asking around for some ideas of places to enjoy your meals.

TAPAS BAR FOOD

If you're visiting somewhere where you want to take sightseeing at your own pace, looking at car rental services might be a good option to save you money on public transport and taxi fees. Many rental companies have special offers and discounts when booked in advance, and offer a variety of sized vehicles for your own personal needs. If you're looking at island holidays, for example, such as Santorini, Ibiza or even Cyprus, I'd highly recommend looking at hiring your own car to help you get about and explore your next holiday destination.

Exchange rates for currency are always changing and are in constant fluctuation everyday. Obviously as a buyer of currency, we want to get the best deals and prices when looking at getting foreign currency. Probably the easiest and cheapest way to buy your foreign currency is going online, and comparing banks and travel agents, to make sure you get a good exchange. By making sure to organise and collect currency before travel, you can save yourself some money by not purchasing at the airport, or at your final destination, as the conversion rates are usually not great. 

Finally, when you're on holiday, you may want to look at finding some day trips or visiting attractions, as these can prove costly if not pre-planned and booked ahead. If you to fill up your travel itinerary, it might be worth researching some free excursions and activities that your travel destination has to offer. Many tourist destinations will have plenty of parks, museums and shops that you can visit for free. You could even ask in your hotel or accommodation centre if there are any activities going on during your stay that you might find interesting.

How do you save money whilst travelling? Have you got any holidays planned soon?
10:00 No comments
Next Posts Home

About me


Hello!
Welcome to lthornberry.co.uk, my personal corner on the internet where I write about all things lifestyle.

Please visit my contact page for sponsorships, collaborations and general enquiries.

Follow Me

Kudd.ly

Contact Form

Name

Email *

Message *

POPULAR POSTS

  • The Most Magical Family Disney Gifts for All Ages
  • 5 Things To Consider Before Getting Back Into Dating After a Long Break
  • 5 Exciting Outdoor Date Ideas For An Afternoon In Surrey
  • 5 Reasons You Need Silk Pyjamas in Your Wardrobe
  • 3 Reasons To Include One-Piece Swimsuits in Your Swimwear Collection

Designed By | Distributed By Laura Thornberry 2021