UPDATE REVIEW: The Cricketers, Kew Green, Surrey

Sometimes, when a bar, restaurant or hotel review goes a little TOO well, we like to sneakily head back without anyone knowing to see if all is as it seems. So one Friday night we headed over to The Cricketers in Richmond to see if the food is still as good, the service still as first class and the atmoshphere as cosy.

We travelled in from Waterloo to Kew Gardens using the mainline instead of TFL's District Line. Last time we had to settle with a taxi as it's miles away from the nearest tube station. After a brisk five minute walk, we were back at the front doors, wondering what to expect.

As soon as we entered, a cheery chap behind the bar greeted us and asked us to sit where we liked. The seats by the fireplace we'd eaten in before were free, but fancied a change and settled for a little round table in the middle of the pub. I personally really wanted to sit by the window, but all of these table were taken up; one with a group of friends speaking all manner of languages, another by a couple with her dad, another with a solo diner reading a book, and the lastly, a getting-fairly-sozzled couple with a few sharing platters.

We decided on drinks, a Fentiman's Ginger Beer with a dram/shot/whatever of rum and a craft beer. Food was next, and this was the read hard decision. The menu had changed slightly since our last visit and these updates haven't transferred over to the web, which posed a problem. Should we go for the same again, or try one of the new offerings? We settled for a rib eye burger and chips, medium, and beer battered cod fillet.

The burger was divine, cooked perfectly and served with a smoky, peppery sauce which was so succulent. The fish dish was huge. HUGE. But surprisingly, both were polished off with nothing left over. Our choices should have been typical stodgy food leaving us unable to finish that last chip, but everything from the batter to the bun was light and delicious. We were stuffed, true, but still managed to eat every morsel

Service was spot on throughout. When our drinks ran dry we were asked if we'd like another. This time I decided to sample one of the gins on offer, and was sold right away. Using Fentiman's Tonic Water and either Boodles Gin or Greenalls Bloom (I can't remember which it was. BUT I WILL FIND OUT) the gin and tonic was like no other. It was very much like lavender cocktails I've had  before. Flowery, fruity and so refreshing.

On our last visit, Paulo had said they wanted to be the place anyone could walk in and feel comfortable. It's certainly the case and true no matter who's gracing its doors - when plates had been taken and desserts were being chosen a couple walked in with their greyhound, took a seat by the fireplace and ordered drinks. I don't really know any other place that offers literal creature comforts like The Cricketers.

After a brief rest, we decided on dessert, chocolate fondant with a berry compote, and a good ol' apple crumble and custard. The fondant was perfect, cake-like on the outside but with a rich, gooey centre. Not being a fan of berries, I left most of these. The crumble went down just as well, and tasted homemade.

We paid the bill, said our goodbyes, and were happy in the realisation that The Cricketers really is just a great all-round place. We can't wait to head back in spring and take a seat outside with a cool glass of Prosecco. If you're headed west, definitely give this little place a visit.

The Cricketers |79 Kew Green, Kew, Richmond, Surrey | 020 8940 2078

Interested? Read on...

Here's How To... buy yourself some decent underwear

Love it or hate it, the last few weeks have all been about boys and girls displaying their love in the most soppiest of ways. But why should the fun end at Valentine's? What if you're a single lady who loves wearing flirty, sexy underwear just for your own personal enjoyment? We asked stylist Courtney Smith, to come up with her top suggestions on high street lingerie this season. Well, she has styled celebs, doncha know...

I’m not usually the Valentine’s type… the flowers, the chocolates, the cupcakes with love-hearts, the sickly cute messages coming up on my social media news feeds every 2 seconds. It’s all just a big Hallmark occasion invented to encourage us to spend even more money, right? On the 14th last year I was all about ignoring the day.

I'll admit, my viewpoint on this once-despised holiday has changed this year; new boy, new start and a WHOLE NEW OUTLOOK on lingerie and underwear. So now it’s time to indulge and make up for all the times I missed out on and use the excuse to go lingerie shopping. Yeah, I know it was technically two weeks ago. But why limit yourself to being sexy for your other half on one day of the year?

I adore lingerie – the idea that you could have the most sexy, sensual items underneath your clothes and nobody has a clue gives it, dare I say, a naughty feeling. It is the perfect way to play up your personality from flirty lace, to vampy black suspenders, to girly pinks and feminine nudes, sexy red satins and sultry demi-cup cleavages. The variety is endless.

For the vampish amongst you, try www.petitsbisous.com for the most stunning bodysuits and two-pieces like this sheer lace red bodysuit - the perfect under-garment for a sheer shirt or plunging neckline dress to showcase what’s underneath. But definitely an eye-catching look for the bedroom too, and if you channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw, you could even have some fun with their fluffy mules..

One of my personal favourites is a sweet set from Next; not an obvious Valentine’s choice, but it’s super-wearable and will last in your wardrobe but not only that, the soft nude/peach tone is really flattering against a tan and the sheer lace elements make it alluring in a very subtle way. The briefs matching this are great for a little more coverage if you are not a fan of the thong kind!

Primark does playful like nobody else; this season they featured cute sets in a vibrant yet sexy Victoria’s Secret kind of way. Balconette-style bras are the biggest sellers because they give you ample support and cleavage at the same time and seem to suit both small and bigger busts. For someone looking for more of a colour pop, try harnessing the flirty nature of colourful lace against nude lining… definitely one for the free spirits amongst you.

New Look has gone a little sporty yet still sexy with their ranges this season; think deep teal satin making the lucy wearer feel nothing grown up and sophisticated. Little cut-out details and black piping give their collectin a sporty fresh take - add in a flash of lace and it’s ultimately sexed up. Who says sexy has to be flimsy?

For fun and frills, look no further than online fashion mecca ASOS; its cute and girly frilly sets won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but this cropped cami-style bralet and the low-cut briefs are a welcome break from the obvious black and red lace we usually see around Valentines.

My must-have Valentine’s lingerie brand has to be Elle MacPherson; it just oozes sex appeal, it’s cheeky and saucy with peekaboo nipples and sheer lace. You won’t get a whole lot of support with this but these ones aren’t really for practicality and more for a bedroom mood.

The newest lingerie brand on the market is L'Agent, which is the diffusion line from Agent Provocateur designed by the sexy sisters Penelope and Monica Cruz. Much more affordable prices and yet the same vavavoom effect we expect with Agent Provocateur, with a killer array of colours and styles. This navy lace 3-piece set is the perfect alternative to a black lace set and the floral lace applique gives it just the right amount of softness to counteract the sexiness. This one is on my wish list.

So there you have it, my must-have boudoir beauties for women wanting to surprise their partner whne they least expect, or for ladies who love to wear nothing but the best just for themselves.

I think the most important tip of all is to be comfortable – there are a million different styles and fits of lingerie – make sure you choose one to complement your curves, and your attitude!

Interested? Read on...

Dear everyone: stop telling me I'll change my mind about having kids one day, yeah?

In case you haven't realised, and unless you've been indoors all week then you may not have, it was half term last week. As kids, it was great. It was freedom. It was playing out with friends until dusk then mum having pie, chips and peas ready. It was mentioned on 8 Out Of 10 Cats as being the most favourite memory of being at school (which is stupid as unless you were in boarding school and lived at school (such hell) then school holidays were precisely all about not being in school).

Now, as a bona fide twenty-something, I can see just how annoying half terms are. Why? Because kids are annoying. They're like those half dead flies that no swatting will remove. They totally oblivious to the fact I'm walking behind them and then they stop to look at who knows what on the floor, a stone or something, causing me to trip over them and subsequently get glares off mother for harming precious little idiot Henry. They hang around McDonald's getting in the way, and make the queue in Starbucks a thirty minute ordeal. They're loud, dirty and in my way.

I recently found myself in charge of three children, from age 10 to age 3. It was a fate worse that death. The littlest kid got her dirty hands all over the glass doors. The oldest one, in fairness, sat there. The middle one ran around doing skids on his knees nearly knocking over a lady in his path. The ordeal lasted 20 minutes and by the end I was done for life, and done with life. The worst part though? Mother dearest telling me I'll know what her life's like when I have my own. I laughed, saying it wasn't going to happen in my lifetime. Then I got, The Lecture. If you're a childless woman who would rather spend her days trapped in a rat infested Room 101, you'll know what I mean.

So here are five reasons why I don't want kids and why parents need to stop telling me I should want them so we can all just get along. And because I don't think babies or children are cute (really) this feature shall have nothing but kittens and puppies and perhaps a rabbit.

1. I'm selfish

I love living my life on a whim. Fancy a trip to London? Let's go! Don't feel like staying in the country this weekend? Pack a bag and join me, baby! Except if you actually have a baby. In which case you'll need twenty bags, an arsenal of toys, a breast milk expresser, dummies of all shapes and sizes, formulas of all kinds, and those pink weird-smelling nappy bags. I would hate to lose that freedom, and to me, a kid is a massive millstone around my neck, keeping me in one planned home-by-7pm-because-of-the-baby night out to the next. I appreciate the sacrifices my parents made, purely because I can't imagine the number of plans they put on hold when they had me.

2. I just don't like kids. I never ever have.

'BUT YOU'LL CHANGE YOUR MIND' I hear a thousand mummy bloggers yell at me. 'WHEN IT'S YOUR OWN FLESH AND BLOOD YOU KNOW A BOND LIKE NO OTHER'. Well, Mrs Mumsnet, I happen to have a cat I love and that's good enough for me. The great thing about cats is they mind themselves, they take themselves out when they want and they're actually nice to cuddle and so damn cute and fluffy. But yeah, you carry on telling me how adorable Bobby is while he's screaming for literally no reason and little Alice is vomming all over you in Starbucks (actual experience).

3. I'm selfish, but not that selfish.

I don't see the need to carry on my bloodline, nor do I care if I'm the last of my family. I don't have that urge to breed, like a lion or mongoose, or jellyfish, or any other being with half a brain cell. So when people are all like, OMG UR SEH SELFISH, I remind them that the selfish thing to do would be bringing up a child I don't want in a world that's pretty crowded already to please the inane babble of friends who tell me I'm a moron for making a decision they don't personally agree with. Yeah, they may think it's my role to have babies and it's my PURPOSE as a lady. I say we're not in the 1800s any more and women are more than just baby machines. Way to champion feminism there, sisters.

4. Contrary to your beliefs, I know myself.

I'll change my mind. How many times have I heard that. Does having children automatically make parents spew this nonsense out at those who don't have them? Like zombies, crying out for norms to jooooooooin ussssssssssss, brrrraaaaaaaaains and bbbbaaaaaaaaaaaabyyyyyy foooooooooooddd, they just can't accept we're not all like them, craving a baby like a heroin addict craves his next fix. As a child, playing mummies and babies made me physically sick. I know I don't want children, thank you. I have a lovely boy in my life, I'm as settled as I'll ever be, and yes, those wrinkles tell me I'm not getting any younger! I don't care if that clock stops. I never asked for the batteries in the first place. Saying I'll change my mind just shows how arrogant they are in thinking I don't know my own self - thanks for that.

5. You'll never know the joy a mother and baby can have.

Nope. I'll also never know the joy of a private island with a butler called Leigh Halfpenny, nor the joy of what it's like to have wings and fly, nor the joy of my own personal Mr Whippy machine for 99s on demand, nor the joy being able to drink a milkshake without agonising stomach cramps, or the joy of painting. There are lots of things I'll probably never get to enjoy or experience, but, OMG this is so weird, life goes on merrily without them. Just because I'll never experience the joy in a semi-naked curly-haired Leigh Halfpenny bringing me a candyfloss cocktail doesn't mean I can't find joy in other things. Like a good night's sleep, an uninterrupted dinner with family, or knowing my life is mine for the next decade or two.

So please, keep the pictures of your kids on Facebook and out of my day. Remember that your little baby isn't the first one to have ever weed in a potty and some (most) people just don't care about this, and please don't assume I'll want to hold your newborn because not only am I terrified, I just don't see the point of it. Like, what am I meant to do, have a life-changing experience because I'm holding a smaller version of you with no teeth or hair?

So parents, you enjoy your life, I'll enjoy mine. Live, and let live. Right? Right.

Interested? Read on...

Lavender chocolates, phone booth libraries and ornate trinkets: three of the best kept secrets in South London

After challenging Why Waste Annual Leave to come up with three quirky things to do in London if you're penny pinching and just a bit skint, we asked her to get down and dirty in the South, and suggest three things South Londoners have kept secret. Here's what she's come up with...

Brockley Market

I don’t know about you but there’s nothing I enjoy more on a weekend morning than a stroll to a local food market. It ticks all the boxes – fresh food, fresh air and most importantly, it prevents that shameful sense of guilt I would otherwise be burdening for surfacing after noon, socially acceptable as an angsty teenager perhaps but most definitely not acceptable in ones thirties.

Let’s be honest, nothing heals a Saturday morning hangover quite like a greasy fry up but what about those Saturdays when one is sober? For a city so cosmopolitan, London has a disproportionate number of food markets lurking in all zones, encompassing those with an emphasis on street food as well as farmers’ markets, swarming with fresh produce.

The turn-off, as with many London locations on a Saturday, is the crowd. You haven’t worked your socks off all week and suffered the underground’s sardine-tin commute to then spend your Saturday morning sandwiched between hordes of hungry tourists but unfortunately for visitors (rather more fortunate for traders), many longer established markets have become too darn popular for their own good.

Cue Brockley Market. I whisper the precious name to you with cautious trepidation, wary of what may happen if I let it out of the bag. This is the baby of London food markets and has only been gracing the South London food crowds for a couple of years so has a unique vantage point in being relatively undiscovered.

Here, you will find everything from hot Schnitzel sandwiches, peanut butter flavoured whoopie pies, handmade lavender-flavoured chocolates and my ultimate favourite find – the fish dog. Think retro fish-finger sandwich – now picture it with fresh white fish, battered in front of your eyes and lashings of perfectly tangy tartare sauce all shoved in a roll. If you’re not already sold, then you’re not reading it right or you’re allergic to fish - and if you are laden with such an affliction, you may still wish to hang around this van to try their Churros dipped in salted caramel sauce, which is every bit as rich and sinfully sweet as it sounds. One of my visits here fell on a gloomy winter’s morning when the rain was as stop-start as the District Line in rush hour but it takes a larger obstacle than this to deter me from ice cream and you will find yourself in an arduous dilemma at Ruby Violet’s ice cream van.

Her range of eclectic flavours includes apricot rice pudding and gingerbread (sorry folks, I think it may have been a Christmas special unless you ask her nicely.) Have you ever managed to make breakfast a 3 course meal? A few months ago, I’d have judged you for answering affirmatively. Unfortunately for the waistline, Brockley market has helped me to master the art of 3 course morning feasts. Come hungry, that’s all I’m saying.

Every Saturday from 10am. More details can be found here.

The Lewisham Micro Library In A Phonebox

It’s shameful how long it had been since I went to a library until I stumbled upon this quirky gem in leafy Brockley in South East London. It’s not that books have lost their allure; it’s more an issue of digital versus manual, noughties versus nineties – many of us have become reliant on e-readers and the internet for our book acquisition purposes.

My re-acquaintance with a library took place unexpectedly one Saturday morning when I was ambling along, somewhat in a daze after a draining week at work. If you’re walking around in London, it takes more than a red phone box to surprise you but when I caught sight of shelves and books, the mystery deepened. Was this an art exhibit? Was it part of a film set? I cautiously tried to open the door, apprehensive and wary, as if I was doing something wrong.

There were books on all shelves, mainly fictional, a few educational books. I was intrigued and then I spotted the sign on the front of the door.

This charming library is free for all and open 24 hours a day. Visitors are welcomed endearingly into the world of the micro-library and are encouraged to bring an old book of their own to replenish it but in return, they are free to take a book of their choosing from the phonebox. Recently renovated by a local resident, this is rapidly gathering a loyal following in the local community. There are no opening hours here, no library cards, no late return fees and no spectacled and smartly-dressed librarians. This is a must-see for adults and children, book lovers and bloggers, visitors to Brockley and to be honest, for anyone who happens to be walking past.

I would challenge you to find anyone walking down that street who notices the books and doesn’t pause curiously. Furthermore, looking beyond the originality of the concept, let’s not forget that the book exchange, like all libraries, provides an educational resource for us to learn from, expanding our horizons and vocabulary whilst we immerse ourselves in the books we pick up (and a great way to de-clutter our shelves at home).

At the corner of Lewisham Way and Tyrwhitt Road.

Aladdin’s Cave

Think you need to head to Spitalfields or Portobello to find the best antiques in London town? You could venture there by all means but you’d be fighting the crowds. You may also be paying the premiums for antique furniture. As an alternative, you could head south of the river to Brockley, which is easily becoming one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in London and keep your eyes peeled for a tiny treasure trove of antiques, known as Aladdin’s Cave.

A family business located on the grounds of an old Lewisham railway station, this little alcove is as stooped in history as it is in ornate trinkets, unique furniture and oodles of character. As with many family businesses, the service is helpful and unobtrusive and their commitment to the cause is exemplified by their willingness to remain open even on Sundays and bank holidays.

I'll warn you now that you’ll wander in purely for the purposes of a browse and you’ll leave convinced that you need the silver serving dish complete with 6 engraved goblets. Many items are eccentric but that only adds to its charm. If you thrive on unconventionality, unique décor and quirky interior design, you will feel sinfully lustful here. I’ve never particularly considered myself an antique lover but it’s as if Aladdin casts a spell to draw you into a web of charm here and I kept mentally mapping my home, wondering where I could slot in the vibrantly coloured, graffiti-esque chest of drawers with eclectic shapes, patterns and hues.

It looks quite small externally but step inside and follow around the dimly lit, meandering alleys, paying your respects to a giant jade Buddha as you do, and you’ll find an elusive depth to it. In fact, when I first spotted it, I had mistaken it for a hardware store. Deservedly, sources far more influential than myself have acknowledged its treasures, being included in Time Out Magazine’s top London furniture shops. Come and see for yourself but my advice would be to have a glance around your home to see where you could best slot in some impulse purchases.

Find your next treasure here.

Interested? Read on...

Review: The Folly, Gracechurch Street, London

When Lise, of Bitten Bug Writes, got in touch about a spur-of-the-moment meal at The Drift Bar's sister restaurant, we just had to let you guys know about another little gem in the city. Perched right by the river and with views of the Monument to the fire of London, it's a place I've walked past and longed to visit...

Nestled amongst the grim façades of London’s financial hub, the wide windows of The Folly are an oasis of twinkly gorgeousness and charm. Having first spotted it from the far less salubrious settings of the 381 bus, I was instantly seduced by the inviting décor (I react to fairy-lights the way most five-year-olds respond to Santa) and promised myself it wouldn’t be long before I was pushing open the heavy glass doors.

Thankfully, a graduation ceremony in Barbican provided us with a handy excuse. Less than a minute from Monument station and a short potter from London Bridge, The Folly is ready to be your Edenic escape from the big, bad world. Lit by soft, tear drop bulbs, candles, and the afore-squealed-over fairy-lights, the atmosphere is a sparkling union of relaxation and buzz. Tables tucked between tree bowers or cushioned hanging chairs make for cosy corners, while longer tables on the lower level provide the perfect space for larger parties. Sliding onto one of these purpley-plush benches and grinning at your companion through silver candlesticks and basil pots certainly makes you feel like one of the cool crowd, attendees of an elite summer garden party or university may ball.

We were greeted cheerfully and seated immediately. That said; it was a Monday night. After a quick chat with a regular in the ladies' I was warned that come Thursday or Friday the place is heaving, and you find yourself engaged in an intense battle with the bankers to get hold of a seat for dinner. Booking advised.

The drinks menu offers a great range of innovative cocktails, and helpfully provides flavour wheels to help you match a drink to your particular tastes. Rather too helpfully, however, was the list of ‘skinny cocktails’, calorie count determinedly displayed. Now I don’t approve of calorie-counting on nights out, and when it comes to cocktails, ignorance is bliss. Bliss it certainly was though, as the waitress cheerfully reminded us (twice!) that it was Mojito-Monday, where their gorgeously-balanced cocktails (including a kumquat mojito and a lavender and strawberry concoction) are two for the price of one.

Delivered to your table, glowing like jewels in pretty glass jars, this is not an offer to be refused.

The food was an Asian-Italian-British fusion range, sourcing from local suppliers to create dishes like the slightly-alarming sounding “London sausages” (cue Sweeney Todd associations, anyone?). We decided against a starter of flatbread in the end; some of the options sounded interesting (particularly the borough market flatbread, with brindisa chorizo and piquillo peppers) but at nearly £10 it was too risky a choice. The diners around us had selfishly refrained from ordering it so we couldn’t see how much bang (or bread) you got for your buck.

Instead, we headed straight to the main courses, choosing the Crispy Duck Salad for me, while The Graduate opted for the Steak Sandwich. To test the full variety on offer, we also chose a Mac & Cheese side (hey, all in the name of research…)The food arrived quickly (again, a by-product of the Monday night lull I suspect) and was truly wonderful.

Served up to me in a gorgeous ceramic dish, my warm noodle salad came with succulently sweet red peppers and crunchy kale, and was altogether a fresh, filling and fabulous dinner. At £9.45 it was only a pound or two more than the same meal from somewhere like Noodle Nation, but without the greasy regret.

The duck was honestly perfect, crispy at the edges but succulent, not a trace of fat, and drizzled with a heady hoisin sauce far richer than what you’d find in your usual Chinese takeaway. My companion was pleased by the finely sliced Scottish beef on his ciabatta, but the waitress forgot to ask how he liked his meat (it came rare) and the £8.45 portion was reasonably small, without any accompanying chips or fries (or, as I like to call them, “the good bits”).

The side dish, though, was a triumph: made with salty bacon and tenderly cooked leeks, the macaroni swam in a delectable cheese sauce made with what tasted like 1000% cream. If the Folly is Eden, the Macaroni is surely the forbidden fruit; too sinfully tempting to resist.

We had a great night at The Folly. The scrummy food, beautiful cocktails and carefully-detailed décor make you feel like you’ve achieved the glittering lifestyle of the city-worker, without the matching price tag. Drake and Morgan have opened another bar, The Fable on Holborn Viaduct, and after my experience at the Folly, I am truly excited to see what these guys are serving up next.

The Folly Bar | 41 Gracechurch Street, London, EC3V 0BT | 0845 468 0102

Interested? Read on...

MANCHESTER | Review: Malmaison Manchester Boutique Hotel

As part of our #VIB blogger collaboration, we sent Charl, of Ginger Girl Says, to review Malmaison Manchester. Here's what she has to say about her stay. The good, the bad, and the revolving doors...



One of the things that you need to know about me is that I'm the kind of girl who pores over booking.com and Trip Advisor before I'll commit my name to any kind of reservation, be it for one night in Blackpool or a week in Venice. In short, I'm fussy. When I first found out I would be staying at the Malmaison in Manchester I didn't need to do that, purely because word of mouth and prior knowledge of the chain meant that the praises had already been well and truly sung.

The Malmaison chain currently has 12 hotels scattered around some of the UK's biggest cities, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Belfast and of course, Manchester.

The brands premise is "hotels that dare to be different" and they certainly are. From the rich colour palettes of deep purple, red and black in luxurious textures to the rather risqué but fabulous décor throughout the floors of the hotel, the Malmaison certainly appeared to see no detail too small.

Getting there

If you're a little concerned about heading into a big city and getting lost trying to find your hotel through side streets whilst also trying to hang onto your luggage then this hotel is most definitely for you. The Malmaison is a short stroll from Manchester Piccadilly train station. When I say short, I mean "I didn't even have time to finish my Starbucks to go" before we had arrived at the beautiful red brick building and my home away from home for the night. If you're not arriving into Manchester through Piccadilly station, then the hotel is easily accessible from one of the main focal points of Manchester - Piccadilly gardens.

Check in

I always think that the reception of a hotel should set the standard for what you should expect for the rest of your stay. A revolving door on the front of the hotel made the inner six year old in me woop with excitement and the 26 year old in me appreciated the beautiful décor and the extremely friendly and helpful staff on the front desk. The whole check in process took no more than five minutes with the assistant manager of the hotel coming down to welcome us to the hotel and to offer any assistance during our stay.

First impressions

Our corner suite, 538 *wink* was located on the 5th floor of the building and even the elevator of this hotel was chic, I half expected a sofa in there for two a la Pretty Woman. Actually, I had my own Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman moment when entering the suite. "Ooooh The Penthouse" I gasped as the door opened onto our sitting room where our massive LCD TV provided some atmospheric surround sound music (atmospheric = Beyonce). This suite was beautiful. Remember the "fussy" comment from earlier? Well, I was blown away. The entire room was decorated in deep and rich purples, luxurious floor to ceiling curtains, crocodile effect wardrobe doors, a TV in the bedroom as well as the suite and a switch which controlled the curtains. Could this BE any more luxurious? Even the smallest touches in the hotel rang true of its "dare to be different" premise with its quirky literature. From the complimentary toiletries, the breakfast cards to the room door hangers - the little details really added a touch of fun to our stay.

The good

When I first clambered into the queen size bed, I felt like I was in the princess and the pea fairytale. The mattress was firm but comfortable, the pillows were plump and the sheets were crisp. Is there anything that beat a freshly made bed? Despite the hustle and bustle below of Manchester on a Friday night, I drifted sound asleep and woke to light streaming through the flowing drapes of the bedroom.

I'm a hot chocolate before bed time and tea in the morning kind of girl, and the selection of hot drinks, a kettle and "a proper mug" for my tea, as well as ginger biscuits (they must have known) included. A hairdryer, an iron and ironing board was provided which helped to save me from stepping out in my slightly crumpled suitcase dress - its the little touches like these which made this hotel a little like a home from home.

After checking in and taking a walk around Manchester, we decided that our dinner reservation was a little earlier than we would have liked (the bed looked so enticing and a disco nap was required). A call to reception resulted in a "no problem at all" rearrangement of our original booking which I always feel is important. Sometimes plans change and a little flexibility goes a long way.

I'm a little bit of a fussy bathroom person, I love my bathtime. With a large bath and a tiled slate shower at my disposal I was in my element. A soak in the tub before dinner allowed me the perfect place to relax and despite the glamour and the sumptuousness of the suite (I'd even call it, dare I say, sexy) I really was able to unwind.

Checkout the next day wasn't until 12pm, which, as far as check outs go is pretty generous. It meant we had time to enjoy breakfast and spend some time in the suite before we had to check out rather than being turfed out by a disgruntled cleaning lady at 10am like some hotels. Luggage can be stored at reception on check out to enable you to enjoy a little more shopping or lunch within the city without having to drag the kitchen sink behind you.

The bad

I've two negative points which makes me feel like the fussiest person ever. Mirrors and lighting. During the daytime light streams in through the windows of this suite and at night time the luxurious lighting only adds to the glamour which is delivered in abundance from this suite. The negative point? The lack of full lighting in the suite made make up application in the evening difficult and I found myself having to angle myself under a spotlight to find the light (as Tyra Banks would say). If I was being even more picky it would be for a full length mirror (perhaps on the inside of one of the wardrobe doors) but that's me and my vanity talking. The mirror in the bathroom and a small vanity mirror on the desk would probably be sufficient for most people.

All in all...

If you're looking for a hotel with personality that you simply must stop by the Malmaison. The entire hotel oozes glamour and luxury and with the city centre only a hop, skip and a jump from your room, train links almost on your doorstep and a cocktail menu to please everybody, the Malmaison is most definitely the way to do Manchester in style.

Interested? Read on...

Review: Sound Bath at Lush Spa, King's Road, Chelsea

You're sitting at a wooden country table surrounded by white kitchen cabinets, a well-used wooden counter top and an old butler sink that reminds you of your grandma's house. All around are pipettes, Mason jars and glass tea pots. You know you're in a spa. But you half expect to see chickens clucking around your feet and wild roses growing outside the window. The reality is you're in a basement on King's Road, about to experience something truly mind-blowing.

You sit there, your jacket and scarf hanging on an ornate coat hook, and wait for a lady dressed in black to finish her pottering around. The lady approaches with a wooden box, clouds of white smoke pouring from it and pooling in whispy trails on the table. She opens the box and tells you to eat and drink. Once the smoke clears, falling softly to your feet, you see moss and heather. At the bottom is a tiny bottle. 'Drink Me', it invites. The clear liquid will start the experience and balance your body ready for what awaits. You drink the liquid, not knowing what to expect. Next is a mushroom. This is all part of the experience, you tell yourself, as you're led down a small corridor to a room.

The lady asks you to get as comfortable as possible, leaving clothes on or off, and invites you to lay on the warm bed. A soft blanket is pulled up to your chest as you settle in for the hour-long therapy. This isn't about hands-on massage, the lady says. The treatment will drench you in sound, causing a deep state of relaxation and a natural high. You watch as she burns incense called Inhale and Exhale and wafts more smoke over your body.

While she prepares the tools needed for your experience, you listen to the sounds playing. A bird chirps behind you. A bee buzzes past your right ear, following the bird. You wonder just how and where these sounds are coming from, but as you twist your neck to try and see the lady takes her place at your head, and gently helps you relax. You close your eyes as she uses two hot stones to start the massage, using them expertly to help you get into the experience.

You have no idea how long you've been enjoying the sensation of her hands and the stones on your face. But you can breathe clearer, and you start to nod off to sleep. The sounds are louder now, filled with guitars and birds, bees and tambourines. The sounds brings long-forgotten memories to your mind - an afternoon in the park basking in the sun, that holiday to Asia, relaxing on a beach on some tiny island.



Just as you feel your head sinking further down, deeper into the pillow, you hear the lady set off the tuning forks. The forks are placed by your ears, and you feel the low tones more than hear them. She places them on your head, your temples, your chest. The feeling is strange. You can hear guitars now, and coupled with the vibration of the forks, you're left wondering whether you're in a weird lucid dream rather than a basement in King's Road.

With the vibrations long gone, the lady rolls you onto your side to start the ear candling. A tube is placed in your ear and set alight. You hear slight cracking sounds, and then your ears feel warm and start to pop. The glow of the flame takes your mind to Finland, sitting by a warm fire, listening to the sounds of snow creaking on the outside lake. You realise this is another memory that was lost, long-forgotten, and the Sound Bath treatment has somehow brought it crashing back.

The music changes into ohms and chants you don't recognise, in a language you're not sure what to call. You try to stay awake, but the sounds are pulling you into a deep sleep. You try to resist, but you slowly let yourself drift away. You feel detached from reality, in a dream world of your own imagination.

You wake up on your back to the sound of birdsong, the music jaunty and rousing. You feel overjoyed, happy, ecstatic, and you have no idea why. You think, 'can music really be this powerful? Can it take you into a deep sleep then rouse you in a matter of moments?'

The lady starts massaging your head, using the tuning forks and cold stones in quick succession. With each new touch you start to feel more awake, like you can take on the world. She shakes something over your body and leaves the room for you to get ready. You sit there wondering what happened. The birds are chirping behind you once again, the bees whizzing past your ears.

You take a seat back at the kitchen table, and the lady offers you a steaming post of honey and mint tea. An hour later you're sat in your hotel room, having planning a night of greasy food and chocolate, you put another fork of beans, peas and feta salad into your mouth. The treatment's over. But the experience will stay for a long time.


The Sound Bath costs £65 for a sixty-minute treatment, and you'll get to take home your Eat Me, Drink Me goodies. To mess with your head and reality and give it a go, head to www.lush.co.uk/spa

Interested? Read on...

#LFW: Cocktail Recipes for London Fashion Week

It's London Fashion Week, in case you haven't heard. And while you lot all bang on about Burberry this, and 'why has she got Duplo all over her person' that, and while I wonder how to mute that damned hashtag, and while I'm sitting here in my boyfriend's grey Next tracksuit bottoms and milk-stained red dressing gown (it's how us writers roll, ok?) cocktails are always something I can get on board with. Even if fashion confuses and bores me.

Benares Bar, located in Mayfair, have created these cocktails suitable for any budding fashionista. I've been privileged to meet Atul Kochhar in his Kent restaurant, so we're so pleased to be able to bring you guys these delicious LFW concoctions. I'm definitely feeling the Milan, dahlink.

London

50ml gin
Handful of fresh berries
10ml vanilla sugar
100ml approx sparkling wine or prosecco to top

Muddle the berries with the sugar, add the Gin and shake hard. Top with sparkling wine. Serve in a long glass.


















New York

40ml vodka (infused with strawberries)
20ml Visciolata Cherry Wine
30ml passion fruit puree
10ml gomme syrup

Mix all the ingredients together and shake hard. Serve in a long glass.


















Paris

40ml Martell VS
20ml Frangelico Liqueur,
30ml chocolate (infused with chilli)
10 fresh mint leaves
20ml whipped cream

Mix the Martell, Frangelico, chocolate and mint leaves together, shake hard and double strain. Top with cream and serve in a martini glass

















Milan

30ml Bitter Campari
30ml Cocchi Vermouth
10ml fresh ginger
10ml fresh orange juice
2 dashes homemade bitters

Mix all the ingredients together, shake hard and double strain. Serve in a Martini glass.

Interested? Read on...

And now for the reviews that didn't quite make it...

We all know the internet can sometimes really rave about products that are mediocre at best. Really? That lipstick changed your life? You bagged a new job and got a boyfriend because of RED LIPS you say? I'VE BEEN DOING IT ALL WRONG, ALL I NEEDED WAS RED LIPS? Not so much.

We love talking about things you, the reader, the one who makes it all possible, get excited about. And every brand we feature has been personally tried and tested by an expert panel of the most fussiest of eaters, the most high-maintenance of boys and the most demanding of girls. But hey, we're not going to tell you to go out and try something if we thought it was a waste of time and money. Everyone has off days, though. So equally, we weren't going name and shame with a cutting review without at least letting them know.

So here are a few products and places we reviewed that left us a bit disappointed. Some were sent to us in the hopes we'd feature them, some were paid for by us. Can you guess who we're talking about?

1. An apartment that fell apart

Touted as a luxury set of apartments for anyone wanting to experience living like trust fund girls without the millionaire parents, we turned up expecting the high life but were left feeling mega low. From an oven that fell out of its housing when we opened it, to the cleaner who barged in on me having a shower half an hour before check out and then STAYED IN THE APARTMENT WHEN I WAS GETTING TOWELLED AND DRESSED WATCHING ME LIKE A WEIRD CREEP, it was a nightmare of massive proportions.

We spoke to the brand and explained our issues, offering a choice of a less than flattering but 100% honest review or nothing at all. They chose the latter.

2. A health supplement that made us green at the gills

We all know smoothies and shakes designed for good taste can pretty bad. But this was something else. It was meant to be added to your food to kick start a detox. But it honestly made me gag, it tasted halfway between pond water and plastic. I gave it my very best shot and stuck with it for a week, but the constant gagging was killing my stomach muscles. My body obviously didn't want this green goo in me, so I gave up.

We wrote the review and forwarded it over the the brand for consideration. They thanked us for the feedback and said they'd use it to improve their product in the next phase of testing.

3. A foundation that didn't build up

Ever since getting a pot of perfect foundation as a sample about ten years ago, I've been looking for base cover that will hide my red cheeks and won't make me look like Barbie. Some have been great, some have been disappointing. This was something else. After shelling out muchos dollar on this brand, I excitedly got home to try it out and started writing it up in true beauty blogger style. The consistency was perfect, but it gave no cover. Like, none at all. As in, I was slathering it on my face, but it wasn't working. Two weeks after buying it, it was gone.

We emailed the brand to let them know of our disappointment and a draft of the copy. They haven't replied.

So these are the most memorable disappointments we've had. Have you ever tried anything you were certain was perfect for you but fell flat? Have you ever had to send THAT email? Let us know below!

Interested? Read on...

If you're not a fan of love hearts, this is for you

We paired with Shannon to find the best anti-Valentine's events happening up and down the country. From man-hate to girlie dates, we've picked what we think is a rather lovely way to spend this most hated love fest.

We all know when it’s that time of year. Everything in the shops has turned pink and red, all the merchandise has transformed into heart shapes, and flowers are filling up the windows. Yes, you know it and I know it, it’s nearly Valentine’s Day.

If you’re in a relationship you're probably busy stressing out over whether or not to buy your partner a present (and then once that's decided, you need to work out WHAT to actually get), you’re frantically trying to book a table in what will definitely be an overcrowded restaurant and no doubt you’re just completely buying into the commercialisation of the day in order to prove your love is real.

If you're single, you have a choice: stay in and hide, or hold your head high and join in with all the fun. We've got a few great ideas for you, but let us know what your plans are in the comments below!

Enchanted Burlesque
Birmingham

Ok ok, so you're not getting any at the moment. But who knows when that will change? We prescribe an evening called An Affair to Remember, full of frivolity, feathers and full on fun. Wear your best gladrags, pick up seduction techniques (and nipple tassels), and have a great time at The Old Rep Theatre. You save £3 by buying tickets now. More details here.

St Valentine’s Day Massacre
Manchester

The Printworks in Manchester are hosting a completely different kind of event to completely distract you. The vintage style evening will see live music from bands such as 52 Skidoo and DJ Katz Korner performing. Not to forget the fantastic food and drinks that will be on offer throughout the gala event. Happening on THE day, Friday 14th February, from 6pm. More info here.



Rocky Horror Picture Show Anti-Valentine’s Delight
Dublin

Following the sell out shows from last year, The Rocky Horror Picture Show Ireland is returning for the eighth time in order to provide the perfect retreat from the love struck couples of the world. AND there are prizes for the best dressed, so what other excuse do you need? It is definitely set to be a night to remember and the perfect way to avoid any gooey-eyed couples. At The Sugar Club. Show starts at 8pm, only suitable for over 18s. It'll set you back €15 and more info can be found here.

Juniper’s Thank God I’m Single Party
Edinburgh

Featuring an array of aptly named cocktails such as the ‘Bitter and Twisted’ the evening is set to be a good way to avoid the sickly sweetness of the season. And with free entry on offer anyway, how can you really say no? The event starts at 6pm and table reservations are recommended, click here to book.



Dinner and a Movie
Cardiff

It can be tempting to stay in, invite the girls over, order a take away and stick on a romcom. But why let a Hallmark holiday dictate your weekend plans? The Pot Cafe is offering all this, without the pjs. For £7.50 you'll be fed a choice of food, from nachos to salad and get a movie to boot. You can tweet your reservation, more details here.

Interested? Read on...

Gin cocktails even cupid would approve of

Yeah, we know. Everything heart-shaped and smelling of strawberries at the moment. But the one good thing that comes of it all is finding out awesome new cocktail recipes to drink while laughing with your [choose: best friend/significant other/parents] on the most 'romantic' day of the year.

Bonus points: We've also linked to two recipes that make awesome gifts if you're looking for a handmade present for your partner.







Raspberry and Lavender fizz

Ingredients
25ml Tanqueray London Dry (try your local supermarket/Waitrose)
15ml Lavender Liqueur (click for recipe - it's super simple)
Prosecco to top
Four fresh raspberries

Method: shake all ingredients together and pour into a coupette, top with prosecco and garnish with a raspberry or rose petal









Clover Club

Ingredients:
35ml Tanqueray London Dry
15ml raspberry syrup (recipe here - takes max 40 minutes)
20ml fresh lemon juice
Dash of egg white

Method: shake all ingredients together and strain into a martini glass, garnish with a raspberry

Interested? Read on...

Valentine's Day on the cheap. In London. Cheap. London.

Living in London is not cheap, and Valentine's Day is one of those holidays we don't really have a choice in recognising - but Valentine's Day in London? The mere thought alone is enough to send me into overdraft. But, there's hope for us. If you live in London and you're lost for thrifty things to do this Valentine's Day, or simply don't want to fall into the expensive 'dinner and movie' trap this year - I have you covered. I have compiled a list of my favourite budget friendly and totally datable spots around town that anyone would be pretty happy to be taken to on a date this coming Valentine's Day.



If there's one thing London has an array of, it's markets. If you read my blog at all [HINT, you can find images from Erica's picnic below wot I pinched - Laura], you'll know I am rather fond of Borough Market for a pavement picnic, and Camden's stable market for it's hidden gems like the secret tea rooms, but what of some of the other - more unique markets on offer? There's Alfie's Antique Market in north London - the capital's biggest indoor market, and renowned for it's quirky antiques, vintage treasures and - upstairs, the Handmade By You studios for craft workshops and handmade gems. On Valentine's weekend you can book in for the stage one bookbinding workshop that I attended myself last year. Tell me you've never been on a get-crafty date before?





I've touched on my penchant for picnic-ing. A picnic on the big day; it's cliché, sure, but cute as hell. Go somewhere idyllic and quiet, perhaps not the middle of Primrose Hill on a Saturday. What about Richmond Park or Kew Gardens? The park is free to enter, and you'll find yourself wandering among the wild deer and water fowl and taking in some amazing views of the city. And maybe - if you're lucky, be serenaded by the geezer practising his bagpiping skills in the open air. If you're on a budget, this is perfect (except the zone 6 travel... weekends are off-peak though!); pack up some of your Tesco's Finest, some charity shop sourced tea cups and saucers and a big old blanket and hit up some of London's finest parks or gardens. we're sure as hell not short of them!





Saving your date for the evening? Don't worry, I've got you covered here too. Ever heard of the 'lates' phenomenon that's taken the city by storm? Basically, a handful of the treasure houses around the city reopen their doors after home time, put on some booze and nibbles, turn down the lights and let you wander their halls in an 'adults only' environment. The Museum of London has a special Valentine's event booked for the 14th - if this is more your thing, then hurry up and get booking now!

This list is not fully compiled, but if you're stuck for budget ideas that won't leave your date feeling like those petrol-garage flowers you bought them last year, then trust me when I say these date ideas are all winners... you might even get a valentine's kiss after...

Boyfriends of London take note!

By Erica, of www.imbeingerica.com

Interested? Read on...

Review: Five Guys Burgers, Covent Garden, London

Friday nights in Covent Garden are often categorised by two things; how long the line is into a restaurant, or how irrelevant the costume is of the flyer-er employed by it. Generally, the more redundant the costume, the better the deal. The same can be said for the lines; the longer they are, the more you want to join the them. Rarely will you see people flyer-ing to people already in the line for their place, but that's exactly what I encountered last Friday night - and he was without a costume, if you can believe that!

We'd made arrangements to meet with Pali over at Five Guys at 6pm, and when we'd blown in like drowned rats shortly after, there was already a lengthy line out the door; inside at the counter the line was longer still. that's when I saw the flyer monger, mongering his flyers to those already lining up for the place. Sranger still, the people in the line were grabbing for them like they'd never been flyer-ed before. This had me curious!

Breezing past the giggling couple at the head of the line, we spoke to the chief flyer-er, announcing our arrival. While he ran off to find Pali, I helped myself to his stack; what I'd mistook for restaurant propaganda was actually just a copy of the menu. It was... short. All the research (all five minutes of it) I'd put into this place led me to believe there were over 250,000 kinds of burger options and over 100 drinks choices! Impossible to include at length on a menu, yes, but this hand out merely described a handful of burger options, and not a lot else.




With my previously high hopes dashed, we were escorted by Pali into the heart of the restaurant; some secret underground burger lair, walls adorned with gratuitously positive reviews of the restaurant - both overseas and here at home. Words like "Yum!", "Delicious!" and "Tasty!" shouted at me from the red and white walls, and I wondered if it was subliminal messaging at its finest, or something to be taken ironically - this décor was not that of a modest family restaurant, rather a bratty burger-bar heir shouting "LOOK HOW GOOD I AM, DAD!".

When Pali explained the menu to us, it all became clear. From the staple menu we'd seen, you can ultimately customise your burger, however you like. Ketchup or BBQ, Chipotle or mayo, jalapeños or tomatoes - pick your burger, and build. So, with the endless combinations of options, I'm told their are over 250,000 ways to have your burger. Genius! With the option to add more patties to your burger too, Pali described for us the classic Man vs Food moment when some (stupid) person tried to eat a burger with seven patties and every possible extra on the menu. We did not question that person's current health situation. Pali shrugged though, and starred off to the distance wistfully... enough said?

I'd chosen the bacon cheese burger with added BBQ sauce, mayo, lettuce and tomatoes, while my date for the night had gone for a bacon cheese with ketchup, grilled mushrooms and onions. Basic. We'd also opted for a portion of the regular fries as well as a portion of the cajun fries - and, a cupful (or two) of the complimentary peanuts that spill out of their confines on both levels of the restaurant. I'll admit, they're a fun way to kill time while you're waiting for your burger; shelling those nuts is bloody therapeutic, but, must be careful not to overdo it on the peanut front - the short wait is totally worth it.




While we waited, we debated the drinks selection. We were told that the magic soda fountain contains over 100 drink options; here was me thinking it was one of those machines that lets you add your own flavours to create a specialised and totally original flavour (orange and red Fanta ftw!) - but no! it literally contains 102 different flavours of soda. I was told to try the peach Sprite, so that was the first of many a drink from that machine. Tasting exactly like peach iced tea (but bubbly!), it was refreshing and sweet, and definitely did not disappoint. With options like Strawberry Coke and Vanilla Fanta on display, we were torn about where to stop. Turns out though, once you go Grape Soda you never go back.





And then there were burgers. Delivered by the attentive Pali in brown paper bags reminiscent of any drive through order, ever, the mere smell had us salivating. Now, you know when you order a burger from a picture, and when your burger comes, it never looks anything like the picture? Not here, man. My burger was perfectly symmetrical. There was no overhang; the patty was the perfect size for the burger bun. The streaky bacon was cooked to a crisp; deliciously crunchy morsels were evident in every bit I took. The cheese was not too melted, but melted just enough to not run out all over the wrapping or drip down my hands. Let me be clear: these burgers are game changers.






Stuffed after a few measly mouthfuls, I powered on. The perfectly cooked and juicy patty was seasoned to a tee - the flavours of the BBQ sauce, cheese and bacon danced in my mouth, while the mayo and salads balanced the whole deal out. This burger, was the only burger I ever wanted in my mouth. It has shamed all burgers before it, and I doubt there will ever be another burger after it.

By Erica, of www.imbeingerica.com

Five Guys | 1-3 Long Acre, London WC2E 9LH and also Islington, Reading, with Bluewater opening soon, Guilford opening February 2014 and Kingston opening March 2014

Interested? Read on...