Results for: Lifestyle

The travel industry, particularly the cruise sector, has been plagued by environmental concerns. However, a wave of change is sweeping through the industry as operators implement initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices. In this article, we highlight cruise companies that are leading the charge in environmental stewardship. By nominating them for the Sailawaze Excellence Awards and voting for your favorites, you can support their efforts and be entered into a draw to win a luxurious cruise.

A couple who were told they had a 5% chance of getting pregnant through IVF treatment on the NHS decided to travel abroad for treatment. Emma Haslam, 43, and her husband from North Yorkshire were told they were not eligible for IVF on the NHS due to Emma’s high BMI. The couple then decided to travel to the Czech Republic for treatment, where they ended up pregnant after years of fertility issues. Emma hopes to help others in their own fertility journeys by sharing her story and offering support through her business and podcast.

Poundland has closed its store in Jackson Square, less than seven months after it opened. The closure is part of a wider trend of Poundland store closures in recent months, with several other branches shutting down since the company took over former Wilko shops in September 2023. The Jackson Square closure has shocked some locals and employees, as it follows a similar closure in Alfreton, Derbyshire, earlier this month. Poundland claims that it will look for other opportunities for those affected by the store closure, but it is unclear how many jobs will be lost as a result.

McDonald’s is implementing new measures to reduce late-night disturbances by creating a more sophisticated and relaxing atmosphere. Some branches, like the one in Wrexham, have begun playing classical music after 5 pm to deter young people from congregating. This strategy has been successfully employed in other countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, along with disabling Wi-Fi in restaurants.

For a limited time, Airbnb is offering an exclusive opportunity to spend a night surrounded by art at the renowned Musée d’Orsay in Paris. This unique experience is part of Airbnb’s new ‘Icons’ category, featuring extraordinary destinations available for booking. From May 21, 2024, travelers can enter a lottery system for a chance to secure the one-night stay, which coincides with the Opening Ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games on July 26. The lucky winners will enjoy a complimentary stay in a transformed clock room within the museum, designed by Mathieu Lehanneur, the visionary behind this year’s Olympic Torch. Along with private access to the museum’s Impressionist collection and an exclusive tour of a hidden space, guests will have breathtaking views of Paris from their suspended bed, framed by ceramic flowers and organic-shaped sofas.

TikTok channel @soprettycars revealed hidden features of Audi A1 cars that can enhance the driving experience. Some of the tips include a button that prevents alarms from sounding when pets are inside the vehicle, updating the navigation system for the latest information, and a fuel cap tip to avoid scratching paint.

As we age, wrinkles naturally develop on our skin. While there are numerous products and procedures that promise to minimize wrinkles and rejuvenate skin, aloe vera, a common household plant, has emerged as a remarkable natural alternative. Studies have consistently shown that consuming or applying aloe vera gel significantly reduces wrinkles and enhances skin elasticity.

This BBC Good Food recipe has garnered a four out of five-star review online. It is a simple Indian marinade that coats the meat and requires minimal preparation for “juicy” results. It is easy to whip up in a hurry as it cooks in just 20 minutes. All you need are chicken thighs, lemon juice, butter, and a few spices such as red chili powder, cumin powder, and garam masala.

According to Daniel Forsberg, Marketing Manager at CTEK, classic petrol and diesel cars could continue to be used in an all-electric future through conversions. ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) to EV (Electric Vehicle) conversions are already available in the UK, but their high cost, often tens of thousands of pounds, makes them unaffordable for most drivers. To address this issue, CTEK has proposed a 10-point plan aimed at making EV conversions more accessible and affordable. The plan includes measures such as standardized requirements for conversions, financial subsidies, eco-friendly loans, and additional training for mechanics. Forsberg emphasizes the environmental, economic, and employment benefits of incentivizing EV conversions in the UK, highlighting successful examples in Sweden and France. By making EV conversions more affordable and practical, the UK can extend the lifespan of its classic petrol and diesel fleet, reduce carbon emissions, and support the growth of the automotive industry.

Automotive experts have criticized the government’s decision to leave car tax rates unchanged, describing it as a “considerable step backwards” in promoting electric vehicles (EVs). Key concerns raised include the inequity between VAT rates for charging at home (5%) and at public bays (20%), particularly disadvantaging drivers without access to off-street parking who face higher costs. While the government cited fiscal constraints as a reason for not equalizing VAT rates, industry leaders such as the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and the AA are calling for a revision to encourage EV adoption and reduce disparities in charging costs.