It tastes of nostalgia, Sundays with the family, and slightly soggy Yorkshire puddings.
Now you bring that iconic taste right into your living room, as the chain launch a takeaway service, allowing you to order your favourite roast online
The seven-day service means roast dinners no longer have to be reserved for the weekend. Fancy some gammon on a Tuesday? Craving roast potatoes on a Thursday? No problem.
The only snag is that you have to pick it up yourself, but roast-enthusiasts will agree that it’s worth the effort.
(Picture: Facebook/Toby Carvery)
Make week night dinners great again with a selection of all your favourite trimmings. Mini pigs in blankets or glazed bacon belly bites would make the perfect starter for a self-professed carnivore.
And when it comes to the main course, you can pick from four different kinds of meat. Just like in the restaurant.
Turkey, beef, gammon or pork, whatever you choose it will come complete with four kinds of steamed or roasted veg, gravy and the all-important Yorkshire pudding.
For vegetarians there’s a broccoli and brie parcel, stuffed with mushrooms and finished with a creamy sauce.
There’s even a vegan option – roast mushroom and ale pie, with the option to add vegetarian gravy.
(Picture: Facebook/Toby Carvery)
One weird glitch is that customers aren’t allowed to choose which vegetables they want – they will just be randomly allocated four kinds of veg. Like it or lump it.
But if you end up disappointed with your vegetables, just get stuck in to the dessert menu.
For chocolate fans there’s the millionaire brownie or the chocolate and raspberry fondant. Or opt for the baked cheesecake with orange curd mousse.
The tracker tool on the website allows you to find your closest branch, then all you have to do is place your order and wait with bated breath for your weeknight meal of dreams.
It’ll likely be at 12.01am that you can bag a bargain online, although you’ll have to check your local store’s opening time if you want to shop in person.
They currently have a Black Friday placeholder up on the site, but aren’t hinting at what kind of discounts might be available when the time comes.
Last year, there was up to 50% in every department, so we can likely expect more of the same in 2018.
Due to the brand’s Never Knowingly Undersold policy, it’s also expected that they’ll be matching competitor prices for the same product where possible.
That’s a great sign when brands like Apple, Samsung, and Sony are involved, as you’ll be able to snag big discounts on high price items.
It’s not just electricals, though, as clothes (including brands such as Jaeger and Warehouse) and luxury cosmetics will be included in the sale too.
There are currently offers available on the website, but who knows if you’ll make a bigger saving if you wait.
(Illustration: Liberty Antonia Sadler for Metro.co.uk)
Many women have concerns about ovulation, as it is often a cryptic, hidden event. How much do you think you know about ovulation?
We asked fertility expert Zita West – known as the fertility fairy godmother – to answer the most questions she is most frequently asked by women who are trying to conceive.
Q Can you ovulate twice in one month?
Yes, although this is fairly rare, and is what happens in the case of non-identical twins. If ovulation happens twice it is always within 24 hours so your fertile time will still be over the same few days of your cycle.
Q How long can the sperm survive?
Sperm can live for 2-5 days inside a woman’s body. However, during the optimum conditions which accompany the ovulation time it can survive for up to a week.
Q How long am I fertile for each month?
The vast majority of pregnancies occur due to intercourse in the six-day period before ovulation occurs. This fertile window will generally occur earlier in shorter cycles and later in longer cycles.
Q I have regular periods. Does this prove my ovulation is normal?
Regular periods can occur even if ovulation has not occurred, so are not necessarily a sign you have ovulated during your cycle.
Q How can be certain I have ovulated?
With great difficulty! Currently there are only three ways to confirm that ovulation is occurring: being pregnant: an ultrasound scan showing a collapsed follicle or a blood test showing a raised progesterone level.
Q What is a progesterone test and should I have one?
A progesterone test can show ovulation has occurred but needs to be taken on day 21 of a 28-day cycle. At this time, raised progesterone levels will show that ovulation has occurred, while the absence of raised levels will show if no ovulation has taken place.
Q How accurate is temperature at indicating ovulation?
An accurately taken waking temperature can give some idea of the possible presence or absence of ovulation and any ovulatory problems, but temperature recordings are not conclusive and can be stressful so are not generally recommended long term.
Q Should I use a predictor kit?
Some women find these useful, but they should be used alongside understanding of how your cervical secretions change during fertile times. An ovulation predictor kit tests for a surge in luteinising hormone. Ovulation normally follows within 36 hours of the LH surge, but a positive LH test does not always indicate that ovulation will follow.
Q What should I be looking for in my cervical secretions?
During fertile times oestrogen changes cervical secretions to allow sperm to live longer in the woman’s body and enter the womb more easily. Typically, fertile secretions are wetter, slippery and stretchier. To maximise the chance of conception, sex should occur on days with optimal mucus quality, regardless of the exact timing relative to ovulation.
Q I’ve noticed as I get older I have less secretions – is this a problem?
But it is very important to ascertain whether secretions have diminished due to age, or other factors such as hormonal imbalance
Q The time between ovulation and my period seems to have got shorter. Why is this?
As women age, ovulation becomes less frequent and the interval between ovulation and the next period (luteal phase) may be deficient or shortened. This may be a normal part of the ageing process or may have other causes. However, if there are less than 10 days from ovulation to the next period, there is not enough time for a fertilised egg to implant in the endometrium (womb lining).
Q Which lifestyle factors most impact on ovulation?
Stress and exhaustion can have a large impact because it disrupts hormones associated with fertility. Weight fluctuations can also have an impact and being underweight can be more detrimental to fertility than being slightly overweight.
Other health issues such as anaemia and medications can have an impact. As can smoking, excess alcohol and poor diet. I see many exhausted clients who are running on empty.
It requires energy to ovulate so if you are really depleted, it’s not a matter of survival to your body if you produce and ovulate an egg each month.
Q I think I might have a problem with my thyroid. Can that affect fertility?
The thyroid gland is like the body’s thermostat, releasing hormones to speed up your metabolism and burn more fuel, or slow down and conserve energy. Issues like stress and illness can affect the thyroid, disrupting its natural processes and since your hormones are interrelated this can affect fertility.
Q I’ve just come off the pill. How long will it take for my cycles to return?
This varies from person to person. The first month after you stop taking the pill is usually a particularly fertile cycle. After this, ovulation can be disrupted for a few months in most women. For others it may take longer for ovulation to return to a normal pattern, despite regular periods.
Q I’m breastfeeding. What effect does this have on my fertility?
Breast-feeding suppresses ovulation and it may take a while after stopping breast-feeding for a normal ovulatory pattern to return, despite seemingly normal periods.
Q Can I time intercourse to affect the sex of the baby?
No. When you have sex makes no difference to the gender of the baby.
You can find more by Zita West at zitawest.com, or you can make an appointment to visit the Zita West Clinic (020 7224 0017), where Zita and her team specialise in natural fertility and IVF as well as working with couples who have already had failed IVF cycles.
Fertility Month
This story is part of Fertility Month, a month-long series covering all aspects of fertility.
For the next four weeks, we will be speaking to people at all stages of the fertility journey as well as doctors, lawyers and fertility experts who can shed light on the most important issues.
‘I wasn’t treated with the care and consideration a mother delivering her child deserves.’ (Picture: Erin Aniker)
My pregnancy seemed nothing but easy, joyful and it exceeded my expectations. I glowed from the inside out, and was astounded by how I carried my child-bearing journey with ease.
That was until I experienced a traumatic delivery day.
I left the hospital overjoyed with my new bundle of joy convinced that I had not received adequate care – and I couldn’t shake the feeling that it was because I am black.
In the US it is becoming better known that black mothers are three to four times more likely to die than white mothers.
And in the UK, a shocking report by Charles Anawo Ameh found evidence to suggest that care given to women from ethnic minority backgrounds is substandard.
His report included figures like, 28 out of every 100,000 births for black women result in the death of the mother – compared to the seven for white women.
While I am fortunate that my pregnancy did not result in lasting damage to me or my baby, I definitely agree that the care was substandard.
After being sent home twice in excruciating pain, my contractions were frequent and regular. I howled and bellowed in agony – I could no longer take the pain.
It was my second pregnancy and I was adamant that I wanted an epidural. When giving birth to my firstborn, I had initially opted for a serene water birth but, due to a failed epidural, the labour process took 24 hours. I wasn’t making that mistake again.
However, I was informed that there was a queue, and that I would have to wait ‘a very long while’.
I begged in between short breaths and at any moment that I could gather energy to speak – ‘please, I NEED an epidural.’
‘You’re fine, you’re ok – you don’t need one right now,’ they repeatedly explained.
They thought I had a long way to go, despite me telling them that I felt like my baby was coming.
Left in the room alone without any painkillers, I pulled the edges of my hair off – anything to relieve pain – absolutely anything.
‘I need to push!’ I screamed repeatedly in frustration; they did not believe me.
‘No, you don’t need to p –‘, my baby’s head started to crown – she was coming.
As my baby was being delivered, she passed a meconium stool – the first stool that a baby passes, which usually only happens when babies are under stress.
I was relieved that my horrific delivery seemed to be over and tried to bear the pain of having my tear stitched up.
Was I the only person who had thought this, or experienced this type of treatment?
I laid on the ward as my husband was sent home, despite begging for him to be allowed to stay.
Pondering alone, I was struck by the fact that the nurses did not seem to believe me.
I wasn’t treated with the care and consideration a mother delivering her child deserves.
I felt ignored, denounced – my words and pain did not matter – as though I was exaggerating.
Perhaps they saw me as a frantic and hysterical, confused that I wasn’t the indestructible female who should be able to handle all the pain in the world, especially since I’m black?
Was I the only person who had thought this, or experienced this type of treatment?
When I read Charles Anawo Ameh’s report I felt disappointed and greatly saddened that so many BAME mothers had felt disrespect and neglect when accessing maternity services.
Being treated that way stays with you; it’s been 10 months since my daughter was born and I still feel unsettled about my delivery.
Recently, I asked followers of The Motherhood Group – a social enterprise for mothers – whether they feel that black mums-to-be are discriminated against by health services and over half of them said yes.
Given, this wasn’t the biggest sample size – I received 147 replies – but the stories I heard from women whose experiences echoed mine highlighted how common and heart-breaking this treatment can be.
It would be unfair of me to only shine a light on the bad. There were good accounts too from mothers who said their nurses did the utmost to accommodate them and make them feel comfortable.
But so many other women felt as if they were being judged and were deemed by medical professionals to be over-exaggerating the pain they were in. Some felt as if doctors assumed they had a higher pain threshold.
One mum even had pre-eclampsia which wasn’t spotted, and doctors ignored her insistence that there was something wrong.
What really stood out to me though was the mother who said, ‘I am a nurse. I have witnessed discrimination against ethnic minority patients who are not listened to.’
These accounts proved to me how vital platforms that support ethnic minority mothers are – and I am grateful to have my network, without which I don’t know how I would have coped with the trauma of my delivery.
You can find out more about The Motherhood Group here.
Fertility Month
This story is part of Fertility Month, a month-long series covering all aspects of fertility.
For the next four weeks, we will be speaking to people at all stages of the fertility journey as well as doctors, lawyers and fertility experts who can shed light on the most important issues.
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas this week on our Instagram page.
With festive lights being turned on across the city and the air chilling, London is quickly turning into a winter wonderland.
Our Instagram feed @Metro.co.uk champions amateur photography from London and across the UK and shares your images on a daily basis to our thousands of followers. Here are some of our best photos from the beginning of November.
There’s this running joke that anybody who owns a Fiat 500 is basic.
Think pumpkin spiced lattes and tweets ending with sarcastic x’s on the end.
And it seems Boots is jumping on this ‘basic’ trend, by releasing Fiat 500 inspired perfumes for him and for her for £29.
The Fiat 500 ‘For Her’ comes in white and is shaped like the front of a Fiat 500.
(Picture: Boots)
According to Boots, it has top notes of pink pepper, mandarin and lychee, while the heart notes are white bouquet of gardenia, magnolia and jasmine and the base notes are woody and white musk.
Lovely.
The description reads: ‘Fresh and full of floral notes, the fragrance opens with spicy top notes of Pink Pepper, Mandarin and Lychee and persists with a white bouquet of Gardenia, Magnolia and Jasmine flowers.
‘A combination of woody and white musk base notes complete the floral cocktail inspired by the Dolce Vita spirit of Fiat 500.’
As we mentioned, there’s also a ‘For Him’ version. This comes in grey, and the scents are totally different.
(Picture: Boots)
Apparently, the fragrance begins with an ‘explosion of freshness’ which comes from a grapefruit scent combined with a mix of Timur pepper and pink pepper.
The description continues: ‘Florentine Iris butter and Geranium lend texture and refinement to the sensual heart.
‘The precious combination of Benzoin and Patchouli combined with notes of Vanilla gives the fragrance a decisive and captivating character.’
So basically, it doesn’t matter who decides you’re ‘basic’ because of the car you own – how many people can say they’re wearing perfume inspired by their own car?
A mum is warning others to always get a second opinion after claiming she was encouraged to terminate her healthy pregnancy when doctors believed her unborn baby had Downs Syndrome.
22-year-old Jordan Squires, from Middlesborough, says she was told by doctors at her 12-week scan that her baby was highly likely to have Downs Syndrome due to the large amount of fluid on the back of his neck.
Jordan says that doctors encouraged her to have an immediate abortion without giving her any other options to consider.
Jordan and her partner Johnathan, 30, who had already suffered a miscarriage, were both infuriated by the doctor’s response and refused an abortion.
They were left shocked when their baby boy Jay was born completely healthy.
Jordan, a stay-at-home mum, said: ‘When we attended my 12-week-scan, I knew straight away something was wrong because the midwife seemed to be concerned.
‘She asked if we could go into a side room and that someone would be along to talk to us.
‘They told us that the baby was highly likely to have Downs Syndrome due to the large amount of fluid that was placed high on the back of his neck.
(Picture: Mercury Press)
‘Straight away I was told that they advised terminating the pregnancy without giving us any other options or support.
‘We were so angry and we told them where to go.
‘There was no way I was going to do that, we had waited so long for this baby and we would love our child regardless of the disability.
‘I was furious that they were encouraging people to do that and if it had been someone different then they could of been persuaded by the doctors, then they would have ended a healthy pregnancy.’
The couple were so determined to carry on with the pregnancy that they refused to have an amniocentesis test, which involves using a large needle to extract and test amniotic fluid from the uterus and can cause miscarriages.
Jordan was admitted to hospital and induced over five days but eventually had an emergency c-section.
The mum claims that the doctors never acknowledged their mistake when Jay was born without Downs Syndrome, a healthy 9lbs 2oz.
She said: ‘We were just so shocked because the doctors who told us he had Downs Syndrome at the scan seemed so adamant.
‘They didn’t even seem to acknowledge that he was healthy.
‘We were just so happy he was with us even if he didn’t want to come out.’
The couple could now never imagine life without Jay, who will be two in February, and says that mothers should look to get a second opinion before considering a termination.
Jordan said: ‘Call it mothers instinct but there was never any doubt that I would carry to full term.
‘There was so much pressure on us to have a termination with no offer of us having support or advice should we want to carry on.
‘They even said we could get the ball rolling then and there and it just doesn’t give people time to take everything in.
‘When you’ve been told your baby has a disability you’re obviously in a vulnerable position and it can be easy to make quick rash decisions.
‘I understand they need to make people fully aware of the commitment and challenges that they can face but for us he would have always been loved.
‘He is such an amazing little boy and never been sick a day in his life.
‘We could have lost a healthy baby if we had decided otherwise.’
New research has found that weightlifting protects against heart disease better than walking and cycling.
Everyone knows that exercise is good for the heart but previous research or advice does not differentiate between the benefits of different types of exercise.
There is static activity, such as strength training involving lifting weights to build up muscles or dynamic activities which involve movement.
Now a new study by St George’s University in Grenada has found that while all physical activity is beneficial, static activities were more strongly associated with reducing heart disease risks than dynamic activities.
The research was presented at the American College of Cardiology Latin America Conference 2018 in Lima, Peru.
(Picture: Getty)
Assistant Professor Dr Maia Smith in the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine said: ‘Both strength training and aerobic activity appeared to be heart healthy, even in small amounts, at the population level.
‘Clinicians should counsel patients to exercise regardless – both activity types were beneficial.
‘However, static activity appeared more beneficial than dynamic, and patients who did both types of physical activity fared better than patients who simply increased the level of one type of activity.’
Researchers analysed cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure, being overweight, having diabetes and high cholesterol, as a function of self-reported static and/or dynamic activity in 4,086 American adults.
They took part in the 2005 to 2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
(Picture: Getty)
The researchers then adjusted for age, ethnicity, gender and smoking and stratified by age, 21 to 44 years old or over 45.
In total, 36% of younger and 25% of older adults engaged in static activity, and 28% of younger and 21% of older adults engaged in dynamic activity.
Researchers found engaging in either type of activity was associated with 30 to 70% lower rates of cardiovascular disease risk factors, but associations were strongest for static activity and in youth.
Professor Smith said: ‘One interesting takeaway was that both static and dynamic activity were almost as popular in older people as younger.
‘I believe this gives clinicians the opportunity to counsel their older patients that they will fit into the gym or the road race just fine.
‘The important thing is to make sure they are engaging in physical activity.’
Yo! Sushi is famous for its conveyor belt of culinary delights – and now there are even more delicious dishes for sushi-lovers to try.
The Japanese chain has launched a jam-packed new menu to see us through the winter months – and our mouths are watering already.
The new dishes have been inspired by authentic Japanese street food, and there are some seriously warming options, perfect for when the weather gets really cold.
(Picture: Yo! Sushi/Metro.co.uk)
For the first time ever, Yo! Sushi will be serving meals on big plates. If the thought of diddy dishes puts you off, this season you can get a super-sized portion of raman, or katsu curry – which will certainly warm you up.
Another new addition are the bao burgers. A western, recognisable twist on the Japanese classic bao buns, the hearty burgers are stuffed with chicken teriyaki or chicken katsu.
And if you’re dining with a big group, you can now order giant sharing platters to take the confusion out of picking multiple dishes.
New research conducted on behalf of Yo! found that 53% of the UK have never tried sushi before, and over half of ‘sushi virgins’ believe it’s just raw fish.
But if you don’t like the thought of raw fish, that’s no problem because the huge menu has plenty of other Asian delicacies on offer.
Even the sushi rolls aren’t off limits – with veggie and non-fish options available. A new favourite has to be the chicken and avocado rolls, which are already selling really well.
(Picture: Yo! Sushi/Metro.co.uk)
The new Korean fried chicken is a surprise hit, doused in an addictive sweet chilli sauce.
And if you have any room left, there’s the new chocolate brownie or the light and fluffy Japanese cheesecake, drizzled in an indulgent salted caramel sauce.
Wash it all down with a crisp glass of sake to really make an evening of it.
The winter menu features 30 new dishes, and has made us reevaluate Yo! Sushi as more than just a quick lunchtime spot.
He formed a close bond with UK-based American miniature Digby and the pair were often pictured strolling through Northallerton, North Yorkshire, in February this year.
It had been hoped Digby – who initially stood at 29 inches – would become Mohammed’s guide horse following a two-year-long training programme.
However, concerns were raised about Digby’s size after he had an unpredictable growth spurt and grew to 33 inches.
(Picture: Caters News)
Mohammed has now visited the US to test out guide horses which were 30 inches high or under.
Horses began being used for guiding roles as an experimental programme in the early 2000s in the US.
With an average lifespan of 30 to 40 years they can remain with their owner for much longer than a guide dog.
Mohammed went to the US last month for ten days to see fully-trained guide horses in action and work with them.
A recent video showed him being walked through Lansing, Michigan by a guide horse called Cali who is both house and toilet trained.
He said: ‘It’s not a case of Digby is not suitable for just me, he has sadly grown to 33 inches. As a guide horse he would not have a future fulfilling the role properly because of his size.
‘It’s a kick in the teeth, my story was such I never would have thought I would benefit from a service animal.
‘I read about guide horses and over time had Digby in mind to be my service horse but then he grew.
(Picture: Caters News)
‘As time went on we were going into supermarkets, offices and it was more of a squeeze. I would be knocking things over on shelves and walking sideways to accommodate both of us and that’s not practical.
‘It’s nobody’s fault, that did mean my visions to have Digby by my side long-term are not going to come to fruition anymore.
‘If I had not gone to the US it would have been a setback. I don’t see it as a setback, I’m still going to get a guide horse and it’s still going to be the same time frame.
‘If it was the case that he was the only candidate it would have been a setback.
‘I saw four guide horses while I was in the US, all of them were between 27 and 29 inches. If we would have known this we would not have embarked on this.’
Digby was being trained by Katy Smith and there were hopes he would eventually be able to unload the washing machine and mop the floor.
Mohammed went out to Lansing, Michigan, and Albany, New York, to work with, walk with and see what a fully-trained guide horse could actually do.
(Picture: SWNS)
‘My trip to America would allow me to see the stature of their horses, and therefore compare Digby to them,’ Mohammed said.
‘This would then help with making my decision on his suitability.
‘Feeling Cali for the first time was breathtaking but it also added to my feelings that Digby would no longer be suitable for me.
‘I also met miniature horses Willow, Maya and Panda. Seeing their size cemented my knowledge that a guide horse needs to be within the universally accepted and agreed size of 30 inches high or under.
‘I’m gutted that Digby isn’t going to be my guide horse. I had formed a bond with him and saw the amazing potential he had as a guide, due to his temperament.
‘Being led by a guide horse allowed me to walk at speeds and with confidence that I’ve never had when being guided by a human or using a cane. It was like I wasn’t blind when I had the harness for Cali in my hand.’
Vicky’s daughter Amelia was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour earlier this year (Photo: Vicky Robinson)
There’s a tradition among young cancer patients that sees them ringing a special bell at the end of their treatment.
When that gong sounds, everyone in the ward knows that another little boy or girl has finally had their last gruelling session of chemo or radiotherapy.
Last month, at a clinic in Germany, it was the turn of my five year old daughter, Amelia, who was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour earlier this year.
Except – true to form – Amelia didn’t want to ring her bell. If anything, she looked scared of it.
And as her mum, I was terrified too.
Yes, that bell marked the end of Amelia’s treatment, but what that bell also signified is that we now have to wait until January for a follow-up MRI scan, which will tell us if Amelia’s cancer has been kept at bay.
Our journey is, then, only just beginning. And I’m sure it’s the same for lots of other families in our position.
‘We surrendered ourselves to the routine of treatment and put our faith in the healthcare professionals.’ (Photo: Vicky Robinson)
In the meantime we, as a family unit, have to find a new way of living, establishing new ‘normal’ routines. We always with one eye on what comes next, despite the fact that our lives have pretty much been exploded and then crudely pieced back together again.
Our nightmare began in June this year, when Amelia suffered a seizure at school.
You don’t naturally assume the worst. I remember thinking, ‘perhaps she overheated, or she might have epilepsy?’
But Amelia didn’t have epilepsy. She actually had a ‘neuroepithelial’ tumour measuring 2cm in the upper part of her brain – one of only 30 known cases in Europe.
She underwent a seven hour operation at Leeds General Infirmary to successfully remove it, amazing everyone with her courage and energy despite her extended stays in hospital.
And seven weeks ago we flew to Essen, Germany, for Amelia to have something called proton beam therapy – a less damaging form of radiotherapy – to try and make sure her cancer doesn’t come back.
We’re not alone in having this treatment. A recent Freedom of Information request undertaken by the Proton Therapy Center in Prague – another clinic who take patients from the UK – revealed how the NHS has approved 737 people to travel abroad for proton treatment since 2008, with almost three quarters of those being children.
In Germany, there was an odd sense of detachment from the situation. We surrendered ourselves to the routine of treatment and put our faith in the healthcare professionals.
But, the closer it came to coming home, the more reality started to creep back in.
‘If you are affected, chances are you can’t do this on your own, either.’ (Photo: Vicky Robinson)
I had to go back to work to make sure we had money coming in, and I knew Amelia would have to start returning to school – something she’s beyond excited about.
Yet how on earth would we just pick up our lives where we left off and continue as before?
It didn’t help that when returned to the UK, it felt like events were conspiring against us.
My washing machine broke down, my boiler broke down, my car broke down – things that just thrust us back into mundane, everyday life.
What’s more, the situation has been particularly hard on my son, Amelia’s 11-year-old big brother Lewis.
He’s always been quite slow to process information, and he’s always had a bit of a nervous tick, too.
But since we’ve been away, his tick has got much worse. I got him to the doctors, who said, ‘Let’s get him for an MRI, just to check everything out.’
So now, on top of Amelia’s MRI scan in January, my son Lewis will also have one, as I worry that he might have a brain tumour, too.
The doctors say it’s unlikely – his tick has probably just been exacerbated from the stress and anxiety caused by Amelia’s diagnosis – but it’s heaped on extra pressure, that’s for sure.
Now it’s a case of admitting that I can’t do this on my own. I’ve had to fight off my natural instinct to withdraw into myself.
I need help from family and I need support from the charities who are always there and offer invaluable assistance.
I’d urge anyone in our position to do the same – because if you are affected, chances are you can’t do this on your own, either.
We all need to reach out for help, even if it’s just someone to listen at the end of the phone.
There are people out there who know what you’re going through, and life goes on – especially for a child fighting cancer.
Cuffing season is dead and gone, and it’s Ariana Grande who killed it.
The time for finding someone to snuggle up with, settling down, seeking out crushes and enjoying the thrill of something new was already in a perilous state.
First we were hit by the #MeToo movement, which managed to put straight women off the prospect of dating men not simply by providing reminders of how awful they can be, but by providing a quick litmus test for any crushes from afar.
That guy who artfully paired sensitivity with a side of cocky – ruined the moment he tweeted that #MeToo had ‘gone too far’ or said he’d still stanned Louis CK. The sweet angel you’d been crushing on since the heady days of 2016, torn apart when he shared an article wondering if men can even talk to women anymore, if kisses in emails are dangerous, if flirting is dead.
Then the simmering pot of self-love turned on to full blast.
Self-care has been a thing since the 70s, but in the face of miserable world happenings, dire politics, and an increasing awareness of the mental health crisis, it’s become part of our necessary lexicon. As part of that, self-love is screamed from the hilltops and mentioned in everything from marketing emails to personal essays.
We’re encouraged to treat ourselves. To cut out toxic people and habits from our lives. To do what feels good.
But the current climate of loving yourself goes beyond standard self-love. What’s hot right now isn’t simply loving yourself as you would a family member or shaping your internal monologue as you would speak to a friend.
Cuffing season is cancelled because it’s no longer cool.
Agonising over a text to send someone who fails to respect your time? Embarrassing.
Putting up with someone engaging in every terrible dating trend in the book, from stashing to firedooring? A waste of your wonders.
(Picture: Daniella Birtley/Metro.co.uk)
What’s cool is being in love with yourself. Romancing yourself. Ditching the need for external romantic interests and showering yourself with the emotional power of crushing on someone, hard.
The nail in cuffing season’s coffin; these wise words from Ariana Grande:
‘I know they say I move on too fast,
‘But this one gon’ last,
‘Cause her name is Ari,
‘And I’m so good with that (so good with that).’
Paired with the call to say an appreciative but firm ‘thank u, next’ to partners past and present, the message is clear: cut out the toxicity of dating entirely and spend all that romantic energy on yourself.
Shit, I’m in a healthy, loving relationship for the first time in my life, and even I briefly considered calling things off just so I could post a selfie with the caption ‘thank u, next’.* Such is the strength of Ariana’s power.
*Don’t panic, partner reading this, we’re still together and very happy, but it’s best to come to terms with the fact that this relationship is a threeway of me, myself, and also you.
What does that sort of self-love look like, exactly?
It’s beyond a gentle contentment in your own sense of self, feeling comfortable in your skin.
It’s knowing full well that you’re f***ing hot.
It’s posting a thirst trap with no secret hope of it sparking flirtation in your DMs, but so you can look at it and appreciate how damn good you look. No self-deprecation in the caption, please.
Self-dating season is not just about being okay alone, but thriving.
(Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)
It’s taking yourself out on dates (masturdating, if you will), buying yourself cashmere sweatpants that feel better than the embrace of another person ever could, hyping yourself up to a standard that few can reach.
It’s not so much about being strong, independent, cold and stern, but accepting that you need the joy of love and romance – but knowing you’re entirely capable of providing that yourself.
It’s not ‘loving yourself before someone else can’, but investing in loving yourself fully, knowing the greatest benefit is not the possibility of meeting someone great, but getting to know yourself on a whole new level.
Have ‘better discussions’ with yourself, slow dance alone in the living room like Lorde, have a party for one, but remember that this season is about more than settling in for a wank, but fulfilling every loving need with more of yourself.
You don’t need to bother with seeking out a date for the colder months or trawling through Tinder to find someone you can take to Winter Wonderland (you can deny you want to go all you want, but we know the truth. It’s cute).
You can buy yourself the cosiest blanket, you can get dressed up and take yourself out for cinnamon covered doughnuts.
What can another person provide that you’re not already doing for yourself?
Sink into solitude like it’s a bath filled with Lush products and luxuriate in it. Then have a bath that’s not a simile.
Take selfies not to send to others, but to gaze upon in admiration. Embrace self-obsession.
Cuffing season is cancelled. Long live your relationship with yourself.
We’ve all had that heartbreaking moment of seeing someone we really, really fancy and suspect to be our soulmates, only to let them walk away without saying a word.
Most of us ponder what could have been and lament our misfortune.
Nadine Bonnard took action – and it paid off.
Back in August, 28-year-old French native Nadine was shopping at her local Woolworths supermarket in Fremantle, Australia, when she spotted a man in the detergent section.
‘As soon as I saw him I felt something spark inside of me,’ she said.
‘But I had no idea what I was going to say to him, and just didn’t have the courage. My English is not as good as I’d like it to be either, so I didn’t want to sound stupid.
‘I loved his long hair, big beard and cheeky eyes. There was just something special about him.
(Picture: Nadine Bonnard/Caters News)
‘I had a really good feeling. We both made eye contact and something special happened between us but we just didn’t say anything. I know he felt it too.’
Nadine’s hopes shattered as she spotted the man making his way out through the checkout. Struck by a need to find out more, she wrote down his license plate number as he drove away, thinking she could take it to the police for information.
Thankfully, rather than getting the police involved, Nadine took to social media to find her mystery man.
She posted in a Fremantle community page describing the magic moment she locked eyes with a bearded man carrying a basket with a carton of soy milk inside. Within twenty minutes a man named Joel commented to say he might be the guy she’d felt a spark with.
‘I made him recite his licence plate number to me,’ says Nadine. ‘It was the only way I could know for sure if it was truly him.
(Picture: Nadine Bonnard/Caters News)
‘He looked a little bit different on his Facebook, so I really needed that confirmation.’
It turns out that the man Nadine had spotted in the supermarket was indeed 39-year-old boiler maker Joel Seinor. He was impressed by the efforts Nadine had made to track him down, and agreed to meet and chat.
‘We hit it off straight away,’ says Nadine. ‘We had so much in common, it felt so easy and natural. It was just meant to be.’
The pair have now moved in together, to the joy of all their fans in the Facebook group. They now share regular photos of themselves in the group to keep everyone who helped them get together updated.
(Picture: Nadine Bonnard/Caters News)
‘It’s crazy where you can meet people, and at the end of the day it all comes down to fate,’ said Nadine.
‘Some girls might think it is the man’s job to pursue someone, but I think when you want something you need to go after it. So I did.
‘Life is too short for regrets. It’s important to take risks as you never know what can happen in life.
‘I’m so thankful to the entire community who helped bring us together. They were so happy to see all the updates.
‘It feels like they were truly a part of the journey.
‘I’m so happy to have finally found my “cute guy at Woolworths” and we’re both looking forward to the future.’
The monks of Affligem know their beer (Picture: Affligem Global)
Belgium is famous for some pretty great things – chocolate, waffles, fries, but the real highlight of the food and drink experience in the country is its incredible history of beer.
The Belgians are renowned the world over for rustling up many of the finest beers you can find, with some breweries still in operation dating back a frankly ridiculous amount of time.
Whilst a lot of the craft beers floating about these days may have only popped up in the last decade, it’s pretty common for the traditional Belgian beverages to date back hundreds and hundreds of years.
There is something reassuring about the fact that, despite how much the world has changed over the last millennium, this beer has withstood the test of time.
And who do we have to thank for this epoch-spanning history of the glorious drink in Western Europe? The heroic monks of the Belgian Abbeys, that’s who. And you can still go and thank them for it to this very day.
Beer was by no means invented in the monasteries of Belgium – there is actually some evidence of beer as far back as 5,000 BC in Iran – but the distinctive taste which is still alive today was crafted by the men in their habits in Flanders, Brussels and Wallonia.
There are only a handful of Abbey beers left in Belgium as many have fallen by the wayside over the years, but one that is still going strong and where you can go and see how the monastery works today, is Allfigem.
(Picture: Affligem Global)
While you might recognise the distinctive Affligem bottles, you may be less aware of the place itself, which is just a short drive to the west of Brussels. The Abbey is set in the beautiful Belgian countryside and the building itself is an incredible experience.
Seeing how the monks live, largely in silence, maintaining the stunning building and grounds, is such a contrasting way of life to what most of us are used to these days.
This is part of the reason they get so many visitors looking to get away from the hectic nature of their existence elsewhere. I was lucky enough to talk to a 93-year-old monk who had been in the Abbey for 75 years – it’d be tricky to meet a more content man if you searched the entire humdrum experience of London.
While a huge amount has changed at the Abbey over the years, mainly thanks to the various wars that have engulfed this part of the world, the tradition of beer lives on. It may not be brewed at the Abbey anymore, but the monks still treat themselves to it, and crucially, it is still made using the same recipe it began with all the way back in 1074.
For context, William the Conqueror was on the throne of England having won the Battle of Hastings 12 years prior. Beer was being brewed in Affligem a full 418 years before Christopher Columbus stepped foot on American soil. This is a very, very long time ago.
The grounds of the Affligem Abbey are stunning (Picture: Phil Haigh/Metro.co.uk)
Of course, modern practices are very different to those used by the monks that were around nearly a millennium ago, and that is clear when you visit the Affligem brewery. This is now a thoroughly professional, 21st century set-up that ships to a wide-range of countries around the globe.
But crucially, it’s the monks that still own the brand and they are consulted to this day on the taste. The recipe was traditionally passed down for centuries, but was recorded after World War Two, and this is still used, and will continue to be for hundreds of years to come.
For the average beer drinker from the UK, what you quickly have to get used to when diving into the Belgian market, is that these monks do not muck about. It is certainly not considered ungodly for a beer to be 9%, and that is exactly what the Affligem Tripel is. In fact, we were informed that the weakest of the options was the Affligem Blonde, which was ‘not too strong at all’ at a meagre 6.7%.
These beers pack a punch that require the restraint of a monk not to be slurring your words within the hour.
But, like all high quality Belgian beers, they do not taste like a ridiculously strong lager you’d find in your corner shop favoured by students and the homeless. These are not made at a whopping strength solely to get you drunk, they are meant to be enjoyed and appreciated, and they should be.
(Picture: Phil Haigh/Metro.co.uk)
The Blonde, Double and Triple tick very different boxes depending on how light, hoppy and malty you want your beer.
If you’re lucky enough to be there while it’s in season, the Affligem Patersvat Cuvee Des Peres was probably the highlight of all the beers on offer.
Being so close to Brussels, a trip to Affligem is the ideal day activity for anyone who enjoys a beer and with even a passing interest in history – two things that Belgium does incredibly well.
Travelling to Affligem
The Abdij Affligem is located 21km from Brussels city centre and is reached most easily by a short drive.
The Affligem brewery is actually in Opwijk, a short drive to the north-east of the Abbey.
The health store has revealed their list of the ten food trends that’ll be big next year, so we can all stock our cupboards with the most fashionable snacks.
As you’d expect, they’re all super healthy, with veganism and unusual greens both featured on the list.
Here are the nine eating choices Whole Foods reckons we’ll be making in 2019.
1. Pacific Rim flavours
Sadly this has nothing to do with fighting giant robots.
Instead Whole Foods is recommending taking inspiration from the flavours of Asia, Oceania, and South America.
Think cuttlefish, shrimp, guava, passionfruit, and jackfruit.
2. Probiotics
Everyone’s banging on about gut health recently, so no surprise here.
Apparently rather than supplements we’ll be taking in probiotics integrated in our foods; in granola, nut butters, soups, and nutrition bars.
(Picture: Getty)
3. Fats
Blame the keto and paleo diets, but fats are back. Healthy ones, of course.
Look out for snacks packed with coconut butter and snacks made with ghee.
4. Hemp and CBD oil
Well, we already knew this one would be on the list.
Unfortunately CBD oil is still prohibited for use in food and dietary supplements, but you’ll spot hemp in beauty products and more.
5. Fake meat
The cries of plant-based people are finally being met, with loads of retailers and restaurants offering new vegan options.
Rather than glazing mushrooms or frying sweet potato, now people are looking to vegan items that recreate the tastes and textures of meat.
Fake bacon snacks, seitan steaks, and veggie burgers packed with umami flavours will be big next year.
(Picture: Getty)
6. Environmentally conscious packaging
The war on plastic rages on, and now the target is food packaging.
Expect to see an increase in reusable options and eco-friendly alternative to plastic containers.
7. Unusual frozen treats
Waitrose suggests ice cream, Whole Foods recommends more unusual takes on frozen desserts, made with bases of avocado, tahini, and coconut water.
Mochi, rolled ice cream, crushed ice, and chewy Turkish ice creams will see a rise in popularity.
8. Sea greens
You’ll spot seaweed snacks and kelp noodles lining the aisles of your favourite healthy food stores next year.
More out-there sea-based treats include crispy salmon skins, puffed snacks made with water lily seeds, and salty sea fennel.
9. Fancy snacks
Now, snacking is a trend we can get on board with.
Whole Foods plans to sell more fancy snacks for people on the go, such as cheese boards for one and mini charcuterie selections.
Many of us have a complicated relationship with fitness.
Often we don’t want to go to the gym, we hate every second of it, but we go, out of guilt.
The moment you see fitness as a punishment, is the moment it stops being effective.
Treating a workout as penance for ‘bad’ behaviour, or ‘naughty’ food, perpetuates a toxic and damaging relationship with exercise – but it’s so easy to fall into this trap.
We’re bombarded with irresponsible messaging about fitness and food – ‘it takes X-many sit ups to burn off half a Kit-Kat!’ – so it’s no wonder so many of feel burdened with this guilt.
But it’s unsustainable, unhelpful and ineffective. Far too many of us get sucked in to this negative spiral.
(Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)
You might think that your motivation for going to the gym doesn’t matter. As long as you’re in there, putting in the work, getting active – that’s what counts.
But your intentions are more important than you might think. And having positive intentions going in to exercise can be the key to helping you sustain your fitness goals over a long period of time.
Studies have shown that feelings of guilt can impact performance and make your work out less effective.
Psychotherapist Maud Purcell suggested in 2012 that guilt is a ‘destroyer of emotional energy,’ which ‘leaves you feeling immobilised in the present by something that has already occurred.’
Immobilised is not how you want to feel in the gym.
Feelings of guilt also lead to an accumulation of stress – which is going to increase the tension in your muscles, increase your risk of injury and make working out seem even more of a chore.
A lot of this guilt is tied up in our relationship with food – and a belief that we must be punished for eating something ‘bad’.
We all know the feeling. You indulge in a second slice of office birthday cake, feel an instant wave of shame and regret, and resolve to hit the gym at 6am to make up for it.
But with negative intentions, you’re more likely to hit the snooze button, sack off the gym and then beat yourself up later for not making it to spin class.
(Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)
Jessica, 21, knows this cycle all too well. She says her principle motivation for going to the gym is guilt.
‘I think I feel guilty about the gym because I piled on a lot of weight at university and now I’m really unhappy about the way I look,’ Jessica tells Metro.co.uk.
‘So now, I feel guilty all the while for eating poorly or for not going to the gym. I think that’s also down to the fact that I feel really good after I’ve been though, so when I don’t go, I feel bad because I know how I’d feel if I did go.’
She says the guilt has lead to a complicated relationship with exercise, which she knows isn’t always healthy.
‘Sometimes guilt affects my workout in a positive light, as I’m more inclined to work harder knowing I’ll feel better for it afterwards.
‘But I think sometimes it can be a bad thing, as I rarely give myself a break.
‘I make myself feel awful every day that I don’t go the gym, and often find myself getting up at 5am so I can fit it in – I guess I’ve just become a bit obsessed with the feeling of going and working out.
‘I constantly feel like I should be doing something to change my appearance.
‘I guess to create a more positive relationship I do need to give myself a break and realise I don’t need to go every single day for the gym to have an effect.
‘I do enjoy the gym, and it doesn’t make me dread going or anything, but I also believe that if I saw it as more of a hobby than a commitment then I would have a better relationship with the whole affair in general.’
There needs to be a change in intention. Positive energy is unequivocally more powerful than negative energy. If you set fitness goals based on positive progress, rather than a negative sense of atonement, you’re much more likely to stick to them.
Personal trainer, Nick Finney, agrees that it all comes down to goal-setting.
‘Without a positive goal, we can only see the pain. So people can view the gym as three hours per week they simply need to “get through”.
‘If they don’t hit these perceived markers they feel guilty. They feel guilty seeing how hard others train on Instagram, they read about new intense classes and constantly search for new fixes.
‘With the rise in popularity of HIIT, there is a sense that harder is better; if you feel sick and are sweating a lot this is good. The less sick you feel, the less worthwhile and effective it must be. More guilt.
Attainable gym goals
Instead of just trying to put yourself in pain three times every week, consider improving a tangible aspect of your fitness:
Perhaps try a new skill like martial arts
Learn to deadlift your bodyweight or more
Master a pull-up
Skip for 30 minutes straight
Build glute and hip strength
Work with a trainer to improve posture, take progress photos
‘This is a bootcamp-obsessive psyche, and it isn’t good for a long term structured plan of progress.
‘In practical terms, it isn’t fashionable, but goals, balance and consistency are key.
‘Working towards a strength goal, or a speed or fitness marker, even a flexibility target are what pass the time with things that require effort. Guilt-associated exercise never ultimately lasts or gets results.’
(Picture: Irene Palacio for Metro.co.uk)
The key is in enjoyment. If you can transform fitness into something that you love, the spiral of guilt and punishment comes crashing down.
If the gym doesn’t do it for you, try running or join a netball team. You might be shocked to see how much fun and enjoyment can change your attitude to exercise.
Another option is to work towards a positive goal. Sign up for a half-marathon, a bike ride or an open-water swim.
When you have a tangible event to work towards, exercise becomes about achieving this target – rather than working off the biscuits you ate at your desk.
Marcela will do any cosmetic procedure she fancies to stop the ageing process (Picture: MARCELA IGLESIAS / CATERS NEWS)
Marcela Iglesias doesn’t want to age.
She’ll do a lot of stuff to stay looking young – including getting 100 injections in her bum cheeks.
Worrying that her bum might sag and droop, Marcela, who won’t reveal her real age, opted to have a ‘spider web’ butt lift, which involves injecting threads in a spider’s web pattern all over the bum. The idea is that these threads keep the bum lifted as well as stimulating cellular renewal and collagen production.
The procedure cost $3,000 (£2,300), but for Marcela that’s a small price to pay to maintain a youthful appearance.
‘I want to maintain the way I look and keep people guessing how old I am, people can’t believe I have a 17-year-old son,’ says Marcela.
‘For the past five years I have done a lot of research to maintain youthful skin from leech treatment to taking care of my body, quitting soda and meat.
(Picture: MARCELA IGLESIAS / CATERS NEWS)
‘I know with ageing of the muscles you start to lose volume in every part of your body, so I know this will help me.
‘The Spider Web Butt Lift prevents sagging and stimulates collagen so will give a bit of extra volume too.
‘I felt no pain at all, I encourage anyone who is scared of plastic surgery to try the treatment.
‘I want to keep looking as young as I can with procedures and a healthy lifestyle, I feel more confident.
‘I’m looking for the eternal fountain of youth, a new way of life, so I look the best I can be without modifying or changing my body through surgery.
‘I’m doing all I can to avoid ageing, I like to say I’m ageing beautifully.’
A spider’s web design is drawn on the bum to mark where injections will be placed (Picture: MARCELA IGLESIAS / CATERS NEWS)
The procedure typically takes 45 minutes and uses polydioxanone (PDO), a strong flexible fibre that breaks down in the body within two months. The creators say the effects can last for up to a year, and the same technique could be used in any area of the body.
Dr. Aleix Bazzi of L’Artiste Aesthetics said: ‘The threads are inserted apart from each other and don’t touch or tie one to another once they are inserted into the skin, in the dermis.
‘It produces collagen, leaving the skin lifted, tight and more youthful.
‘If you look at the butt it’s a circular object, so we create a swirl so to speak.
‘The way I did it with the web allows it all to connect and form a web-like collagenesis in a circular fashion.
‘The threads will enhance the skin colour and texture but improves the cellulite dimpling affect too.
‘When adding collagen, which is a stimulating substance, you improve the texture and the cellulites appearance.
‘Because of the number of threads used, Marcela will have a better duration of improvement.’
Marcela says the treatment was completely painless.
‘For this procedure, I was literally working on my phone and making jokes,’ she said.
‘I felt nothing, I was completely comfortable during the procedure and I will do it again if I want to.’
Marcela’s bum immediately after the treatment (Picture: MARCELA IGLESIAS / CATERS NEWS)
Of course, just as with procedures such as fillers, the spider web butt lift procedure is not a permanent solution and will require top-ups, which could end up being a very pricey investment.
There’s always a risk of mistakes and infection with cosmetic procedures, even non-invasive ones, so it’s crucial to make sure you do your research and only go to licensed practitioners in clean, medical environments.
Marcela says that she grew up in a culture that prevented her from changing the way she looked, so when she had independence she quickly invested in her body.
She says she’s never had any plastic surgery, instead opting for non-invasive procedures such as leech therapy.
The mum has created an online platform for those investing in altering their looks, called Plastics of Hollywood, so people can chat about procedures without judgement.
‘My mother never bought me a Barbie doll to play with as a child because she said they looked fake, but now I have the real human dolls to have fun with,’ she explains.
‘I am amazed by people who can achieve certain looks or turn themselves into characters and couldn’t believe these people didn’t have a platform like mine that supports them unconditionally.’
You don’t need to look this serious (Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)
It’s the weekend, and thus it is time to swap your standard missionary before bedtime for something slightly more adventurous.
Finally, you don’t have to worry about falling asleep by 10pm. You can spend your Sunday morning snuggling and sex-ing for hours without getting a call from your boss asking why you haven’t shown up. Dreamy.
This week we recommend trying a classic: the coital alignment technique, also known as CAT.
You may well have already been doing the CAT, possibly unaware you were doing it. Or you’re a pro-sex-haver and have been CAT-ing it up since the nineties.
Either way, we could all do with an explainer.
So, what is the coital alignment technique?
Put simply, it’s the act of changing the position the penis penetrates the vagina (yes, pals, unfortunately this position is specifically for P in V action, although you may feel free to swap out the penis for a dildo). It’s credited for being one of the few guy on top positions in which women are likely to orgasm.
The woman lies on her back with her legs open, the man goes on top, same as your usual missionary position.
But rather than thrusting in and out, the man instead moves his body forward so his head is slightly above her head, a few inches higher up than usual. Take a look at the illustration at the top of this post for some guidance.
The idea is that by doing this the penis will be angled slightly downwards, hitting the back wall of the vagina, while the base of the penis rubs against the clitoris.
Her hips will be slightly tilted upwards – and she can wrap her legs around the guy’s body or ankles to add some intimacy.
Then he moves in a steady rocking motion rather than going in and out. The woman can grind against him during this, so she’s getting extra clitoral stimulation.
It’s best to take it slow rather than doing any jack hammer motions. Tune in to your partner to see what rhythm’s working, get verbal and ask what they like, and stay steady. Orgasms aplenty await.
The coital alignment technique is a simple tweak on classic missionary, but it works magic. Take a second to find your position and bring it out whenever you want a romantic, intimate bone session with all kinds of stimulation.
On the hunt for the destination for your next trip away?
We’d recommend Peru.
It’s a place packed with natural and cultural spots of wonder, from Machu Picchu to Cordillera Blanca.
We’ve rounded up nine reasons you should go.
1. Take in Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is one of the 7 wonders of the modern world, located in the Cusco Region near the little town Aguas Calientes
Also known as the ‘Lost city’ was built without the use of mortar, metal tools, or the wheel, Machu Picchu is an engineering marvel as it is above 2,430m above sea leave.
Over 4,000 tourists visit Machu Picchu daily. For ease I would recommended booking with a tour group, as everything is organised in advance, including ticket entrance to Machu Picchu, train tickets, bus transfers, and accommodation in the town Aguas Calientes. Try Tour Radar or Bamba Experience.
Entering Machu Picchu is a military operation. It starts at 5am where hundreds of tourists line up in the cold waiting for buses to take them to the entrance to the site. You could either wait for over an hour to get the bus or take the road less travelled and walk in darkness to the base of the mountain and start the journey into the ‘lost city’.
The tour guide advised us that those who are fit can do the peak in 45 mins and those who are slower a little over an hour. Needless to say it took me a little over an hour (and then some).
(Picture: Connie Sideras/Metro.co.uk)
What they don’t tell you is the steps are 90 degrees and endless. This upward hill battle is challenge that you also face in the dark, while also struggling to breathe and acclimatise to the high altitude. Not easy.
As the sun starts to rise the journey to the entrance becomes exhilarating, and the scenery of the surrounding mountains and valleys is utterly stunning.
For those who are a little more adventurous and thrive off a challenge, go the extra mile and climb to one of the peaks of Machu Picchu for a bird’s eye view.
The Machu Picchu Montana trail is rated moderate but it’s definitely challenging – and difficult to breathe. Adjusting to the high altitude was a real struggle for me and most of the other hikers.
At the start of trail is a slow but steady ascent of about 30-35 degrees in angle for one hour (but it feels like two). Gradually and steadily the paths become narrower and the steps become steeper, narrower again and more challenging. A good level of fitness is definitely required for this trek.
After trekking for what seems like an eternity (roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes) reaching the top of the peak is nothing short of breathtaking.
Pro tip: There are only 400 tickets to the trail sold per day and tickets book out months in advance. Get in early so you don’t miss out.
Oh, and make sure you take snacks, plenty of water, and hiking sticks if you feel you may need extra support.
2. Pop to Cusco
(Picture: Connie Sideras/Metro.co.uk)
Cusco is a beautiful gateway to the history of the Inca Empire. The streets are filled with Peruvians in Inca outfits and alpacas striding by.
Cusco is 3,399 m above sea level, so you need a couple of days to acclimatise. Remember to take it easy, even when there’s so much available to do.
Head to the San Pedro Markets, the Inca museum and the Machu Picchu museum, then stroll to Cusco city centre the Plaza de Armas to visit churches, shops, restaurants, and bars.
3. Stay in Palacio del Inka
(Picture: Connie Sideras/Metro.co.uk)
My hotel pick for Cusco would be the Palacio Del Inka. The hotel is rustic with an inca influence, and is designed to showcase a centuries-old, magical blend of pre-Columbian, Incan, Spaniard, Colonial, and modern cultures.
It is a hidden oasis in the city of Cusco, presenting a captivating variety of rare opportunities and state-of-the-art amenities.
Dating back nearly five centuries, Palacio Del Inka stands in the historic centre of Cusco. Directly across from the Koricancha, it is a five-minute walk from the main square and less than a mile from an array of museums, markets, and restaurants.
4. Go to the festival of the sun
(Picture: Connie Sideras/Metro.co.uk)
Festival of the sun is a religious ceremony of the Inca Empire held on 24 June in the Cusco region.
This year the festival attracted record numbers of 50,000 people on the surrounding hills of Cusco in Peru. The festival takes place on three scenes staged in three different places in and around areas of Cusco. The first ceremony is in Coricancha Temple, where the Inca – escorted by his entourage – sings to the Inti (Sun God).The second takes place at Cusco’s main square, where the Inca re-enact the famous two worlds encounter scene. The main ceremony is performed at Sacsayhuaman Fortress, one of Cusco’s emblematic attractions.
The festival showcases Peruvian costumes and dances. It’s full of colour and excitement.
The triple height ceilings, stone wall chimney and weavings found in this hotel’s reception area are straight up stunning. There’s no reason to leave the hotel as the grounds are so beautiful to take a hike.
The spa features provide the ultimate in relaxation, from the exquisite pool to the sauna.
Make sure to eat at Hawa, the fine-dining restaurant, which served one of the best meals I had in Peru.
There is no better way to experience the Peruvian Amazonian Jungle, than sleeping 20 Feet above ground in a tree. The location provides an amazing backdrop as you discover the serene protected Yarapa and Cumaceba rivers near the Pacaya Samiria Reserve.
Every bungalow has its own aerial space in the jungle with own views and privacy.
It’s surprisingly comfy considering you’re in a tree. There is running cold water to shower, brush and flush and plenty of space to enjoy the views.
Your personal treehouse bungalow gets you up off the jungle floor, meaning you get some relief from the heat and humidity, and waking up to the tweeting of birds is a truly magical experience.
7. Have an adventure in the jungle
Picture: Connie Sideras/Metro.co.uk)
Book an excursion to have a personalised experience.
Our tour guide was a local from the depths of a village in the Peruvian jungle, who helped us through night jungle walks, 6am bird watching, kayaking, swimming in the amazon, watching the sunset, strolling through the villages, meeting sloths, spotting caimans, and feeding monkeys.
(Picture: Connie Sideras/Metro.co.uk)
8. Enjoy the hidden oasis of Huacachina
Huacachina is a desert oasis and tiny village just west of the city of Inca in southwestern Peru. It’s surrounded by golden sand dunes and at the centre of it all is a lagoon, ringed by palm trees, restaurants and epic sunsets.
Although it is a small town, don’t be fooled, as there are plenty of adventures to be had.
By far the most fun is the sand dunes. Head through the gold arches to discover an endless horizon of sand dunes.
Not many tourists know about Huacachina but this little magical spot within Peru should not be missed.
(Picture: Connie Sideras/Metro.co.uk)
9. Hang out in Lima – the busy capital city
Lima has a population of 10 million people that spans over 43 districts – it’s the city that never ends. Luckily taxis are cheap, making it easy to explore a good handful of the districts in a small amount of time.
Key sights to see are the old town, main square, coastal beaches, Huaca Pucllana ruins, the impressively huge Jockey shopping mall, the bohemian quarter and the park reserve to watch the water fountains (be sure to check times).
You go out after work, get hammered, then manage to miss your last train home – what do you do?
For drunken businessmen in the fast-paced city of Tokyo, the answer is simple: Find a comfortable position on the pavement and snooze until it’s time to go to work again.
It’s a common phenomenon that’s captured in High Fashion, a new book from photographer Pawel Jaszczuk.
Pawel cycled around the streets of Tokyo past midnight, documenting men in suits sprawled out on the streets.
He explains that spotting suited men sleeping on the pavement is so common because of Tokyo’s hardworking culture, which encourages early starts, late finishes, and drinking once you leave your desk.
A hotel room each time a businessman misses the train is an unneccessary expense, so settling down on a bench or pavement seems like a logical option.
(Picture: Pawel Jaszczuk)
Pawel likes the contrast of seeing powerful men sprawled out like babies, their fancy suits against dirty pavement.
‘For this is simply a man, like all of us,’ he says. ‘The suit may be yesteryear’s and in need of a laundry but who cares, it is but a mandated masculinity.
‘Here in the street there is nothing reigned, why is he falling, littered and torn; is it really his excess or theirs?’
The photographer wants his book to capture the culture of the city, showing men who are stressed, overworked, and burned out in their most vulnerable moments.
What does it say about us that success is measured by how tirelessly we work? How should we feel seeing men working endlessly so they can afford to live, only to sleep on the streets when they leave their desks?
