Latest news with #AperolSpritzes
Business Insider
04-08-2025
- Business Insider
My sister and I took my mom to London for her 70th birthday. It reminded me of our childhood trips together.
My mom, sister, and I went to London for my mom's 70th birthday. We hadn't traveled together for a while, and it was a relaxing, nostalgic trip. We took turns picking where to eat and my mom made friends wherever we went. Sitting in deep leather armchairs surrounded by Art Deco décor and old-school glamour, we listened as the pianist sang "Happy Birthday" to my mom. It had been 20 years since we'd last stepped inside London's longest-surviving cocktail bar — the American Bar at The Savoy. We clinked our fancy cocktails together to mark the occasion and toast our mother-daughter adventure in London. To celebrate my mom's 70th birthday, my sister and I left our everyday lives behind — husbands, kids, and dogs — to spend six days in one of my mom's favorite cities. She was born in England and immigrated to the US as a little girl. Growing up, we made regular trips back to the UK to visit family, but as life got busier, those trips became fewer and farther between. Traveling back to London with my mom — now as a mother to my own 8-year-old — felt equal parts nostalgic, fun, and refreshing. We didn't pack our itinerary, but still managed to explore Our family trip didn't have a jam-packed itinerary full of the most popular sights. We'd seen London's main attractions as kids, and my mom was never one to worry about checking things off a list. She'd rather experience a new place than rush to see every landmark. As a kid, I hated sitting still for too long when there was something new to explore. My son's exactly the same. I didn't realize just how relaxing it would be to slow down — to take our time over tea in the afternoon and linger over cocktails in the evening. One of my favorite parts about our London trip was the variety. Though we didn't plan everything or stay super busy, no two days felt the same, and my mom was up for anything. We navigated the city on foot, on the Tube, and in taxis. We sipped tea at Claridge's and coffee at Pret. We cooled off with Aperol Spritzes at the rooftop bar atop Selfridges and got cozy in old London pubs. We saw the world in Notting Hill and browsed antique maps at the amazing Portobello Print & Map Shop. We also shopped on Carnaby Street, saw Mrs. Warren's Profession in the West End, and spent an afternoon at the Victoria and Albert Museum. And we went to the V&A café, which is both the world's oldest museum restaurant and the most beautiful café I've ever been to, with its colorful ceramic tiles covering the walls and pillars, bright stained-glass windows, and sparkly globe-shaped chandeliers dangling from the ceiling. When it came to meals, we took turns picking. Mom chose La mia Mamma, where Italian "mammas" cook your dinner, and wow — the pasta did not disappoint. One night, we donned our fanciest fits for a fine dining experience inside Gordon Ramsay 's Savoy Grill. Another night, we ate Marks and Spencer's ham sandwiches in our pajamas in bed. My mom made friends with strangers wherever we went One thing that surprised me, though maybe it shouldn't have, was that my mom talked to everyone. Completely contrasting to her own advice when we were kids, my mom loves chatting with strangers. Taxi drivers, waiters — you name it. She made friends wherever we went. Because of that, we got tips about good restaurants, learned tidbits about London history, and overall, we met lovely people we might otherwise never crossed paths with. We did have our share of hiccups on our London vacation: a hotel-bound illness, a lost jacket, a stolen phone. But my mom focused on what went right, not what went wrong. Her positivity made the bad things seem, well… less bad. And a little extra positivity and a friendly attitude can go a long way — especially when traveling.
Scottish Sun
01-08-2025
- Scottish Sun
Four cost-free measures to secure your home and stop burglars when you're on holiday
Read on to find out how to track down some cheap drinks this weekend SUN SAVERS Four cost-free measures to secure your home and stop burglars when you're on holiday Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) HOLIDAY season can mean rich pickings for thieves, so make sure your home is secure when you go away. These measures cost nothing but should help save you the heavy price of a break-in. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up KEEP SCHTUM: Don't tell the world when you're going away for a few days. You never know who is listening, so avoid broadcasting an upcoming holiday to friends in the pub or telling half the town in the local shop. The same goes for social media. If you can't resist sharing your sunny pictures, make sure your posts aren't public so that they can only be seen by your friends. Better still, hold off posting until you're safely back home. SWAP FAVOURS WITH A FRIEND: Making your home look lived in is an important line of defence against thieves. Ask a friend if they can pop by to pick up your post, park on your drive and close the curtains after dark. If it seems like a big ask, offer to return the favour when they take their own trip. You can also put your lights on a timer switch to make it look like someone is home in the evening. SECURE YOUR STUFF: Don't put valuables on display. Hide tech and other expensive items, or leave them with someone you trust. Place keys out of sight, shut away in a drawer, and clear your hallway of handbags. Lock away ladders and tools so they can't be used to get into your home and bring expensive bikes and outdoor kit inside. Why You Should Blur Your Home on Google Maps – Safety Tips for Homeowners Take photos of jewellery and register your precious items for free at the national property register ( CHECK, MATE: Make sure you have up-to-date building and contents insurance. Read your policy in case you should take specific measures before you go away. And while you are at it, you may as well unplug all unnecessary appliances to save on energy bills and cut the risk of electrical fires. All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability. 6 Want to keep your home safe while away? Don't broadcast to all and sundry that you're enjoying some pool time Credit: Getty Deal of day 6 Kick off the deal hunting with big savings on these Kickers Credit: M&S LOOK after little feet in the sturdy Kickers rip-tape leather shoes, down from £50 to £30 at M&S. SAVE: £20 Cheap treat 6 Track down £3 Aperol Spritzes this weekend with the Greene King app for National Spritz Day Credit: Greene King USE the Greene King app to track down £3 Aperol Spritzes this weekend. They are being served to celebrate National Spritz Day. SAVE: Up to £6 WHAT'S NEW UNTIL August 20 at Lidl, scan the Lidl Plus app at the checkout with any purchase for the chance to play spin the wheel and win a free croissant or cake. Top swap 6 Sweep on Benefit's £27 mascara, left or try Aldi's £5.99 dupe for bold lashes on a budget, right SWEEP Benefit's Bad Gal Bang mascara, left, £27 from through your lashes or open your eyes to Aldi's Lacura Girl Gone Bad mascara, right, £5.99. SAVE: £21.01 Shop & save 6 Drop into Sainsbury's for weekend deals on Laila – 10kg basmati rice now £9.50 with Nectar card Credit: Sainsburys HEAD to Sainsbury's this weekend for savings on 35 Laila products. A 10kg bag of basmati rice is down from £19 to £9.50 with a Nectar card. SAVE: £9.50 LITTLE HELPER FILL the freezer with eight for £10 on family favourites at Iceland and The Food Warehouse, such as Goodfella's pepperoni pizza, £2, and Birds Eye crispy chicken dippers, £2.75. Hot right now GET ready for next school term with three selected stationery products for the price of two at Ryman. PLAY NOW TO WIN £200 6 Join thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle. Every month we're giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers - whether you're saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered. Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket. The more codes you enter, the more tickets you'll earn an
Global News
23-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Global News
9 small summer décor swaps that instantly lighten up your space
The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms. You don't need to overhaul your space to make it feel like summer – just a few smart décor swaps can shift the whole vibe. Think airy textiles, brighter palettes, and touches of natural texture that instantly lighten the mood. Whether it's a linen throw, a citrus-hued candle, or a new vase that looks like it belongs in a sun-soaked villa, the right pieces can bring that breezy, just-back-from-vacation energy home. M&SENSE Oceanic Breeze Candle Made with a sustainable blend of soy and vegetable wax, this candle from M&SENSE evokes the calm of a quiet Sunday morning, with soft, clean scents that linger gently in the air. $36.99 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement White Throw Blanket It's time to ditch the heavy fleece and embrace lightweight blankets. Inspired by quiet mornings and slow afternoons, this knit throw from Battilo is crafted from 100% soft acrylic for a breathable, skin-friendly feel that's gentle enough for all ages. $36.99 on Amazon Tropicana Striped Fruit Handle Ceramic Serving Tray Start planning those warm-weather brunches! This striped fruit serving tray is bright, adorable and adds a bit of summer fun to any table. $37.80 at Urban Outfitters Front Door Green Wreath With natural wood beads and soft green leaves, this handcrafted wreath brings a touch of rustic charm to any space. Designed with a warm 'hello' and 'welcome' message, it's a perfect everyday accent for your front door, kitchen, or mantel – equally at home in modern, farmhouse, or cozy cottage interiors. $42.99 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement You may also like: Long Box Planter – $179.99 Outdoor Side Tables – $49.69 Patio Umbrella – $459.00 Patio Furniture Covers – $69.95 Aperol Spritz Cocktail Outdoor Cushion If you love sipping on Aperol Spritzes, this outdoor cushion is a fun and affordable way to liven up your patio space. Compliments guaranteed. $35.00 at Simons Cotton Rope Woven Baskets These woven rope baskets are a fresh way to whisk away any clutter and will blend right in with any clean home decor. $47.99 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement Umbra Touch Waste Can with Lid The sleek design and soft-touch finish of this waste can offers a simple decor swap that keeps your room feeling clean and modern. $29.99 on Amazon Floral Welcome Doormat Don't forget about your doorstep! This floral welcome mat will give a warm summer greeting to every guest it meets. $23.99 on Amazon Marais Outdoor Low Planter - Taupe The Marais planter is your sun-loving sidekick, happily soaking up rays while keeping your herbs cozy and thriving this summer. $179 at Article Story continues below advertisement You may also like: Solar String Lights – $49.99 Rattan Patio Furniture Set – $232.99 Console Table – $56.99 Patio Novagarden Balcony Railing Table – $106.24
Cosmopolitan
14-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Cosmopolitan
There's a summer spritz for everyone! 6 cocktails to try if you don't like Aperol
It wouldn't be summer without a spritz in hand. And in the last few years, Aperol Spritzes have dominated the summer drinks scene. From the moment the sun first properly arrives in April, to those last hazy days of September, you can't walk past a pub garden, BBQ or after work drinks without spotting an Aperol Spritz. But if you just don't get the hype around the often bitter cocktail then do not worry as there's still plenty of ways to experience the spritz summer in 2025. A spritz cocktail is essentially, some variation of prosecco/other fizzy wine, soda water and liqueur, oh and topped with lots of ice of course. Thankfully, many of our favourite bars and restaurants have caught on to the fact that not everyone loves an Aperol, and offer a variety of different flavours to try. So whether you're making one at home, or ordering one next time you head to the pub, these are the six best Aperol Spritz alternatives to try.
Irish Examiner
04-07-2025
- Irish Examiner
Diary of a Gen Z Student: The differences between Irish and Portugese men when it comes to flirting
'Stay away from those Portuguese boys', was the sage advice my father gave to me as he kindly dropped me to Terminal 1 of Dublin airport last week. Classic fatherly advice. And classic daughterly reaction: I laughed at him. I was going to Lisbon with one of the girls for a few days of sun and Aperol Spritzes. And spending evenings bar hopping in a city means that it's pretty difficult to avoid interacting with the opposite sex. Now, I wasn't born yesterday (it was 2004, thank you very much). So, I wasn't naïve about how these interactions may play out. And we all know that there are some stark differences between how Irish men and men from the continent attempt to gain the attention of someone they may find attractive. Throughout my trip, I was taking note of these differences. Here are my takeaways. In Ireland, alcohol is a necessary prerequisite for most romantic advances. A sober Irish person expressing any sort of attraction is a rarity. Instead, guys will tend to look nervously into their pint glass, waiting for the liquid courage to kick in. Alcohol is the perfect defence mechanism. If things go awry, 'Oh I didn't know what I was saying!' will shield the failed suitor from most embarrassment. But while most Irish people will require at least three drinks before they could even consider flirting with someone, the rest of Europe seems to wake up ready for action. Maybe it's all the espresso. Maybe it's the heat. But Portuguese men have no fear of rejection that I could detect. If you're walking down a nice cobblestone street, crowded with people going about their day in Lisbon, a Portuguese man will not be deterred by the idea of people witnessing his possible rejection. Being serenaded at 10am on a busy street was not on my Bingo card for 2025. Nevertheless, spontaneous serenading seemed to be a go to move for Portuguese men. I wish I was joking. In reality, I found myself oddly impressed with the confidence of these men. They were not concerned about any sort of rules for romance. Browsing in a shop, ordering a coffee, reapplying sun cream, burning my feet on scorching hot sand. Everything was an opportunity for love, I soon learned. One aspect of flirting by Portuguese men that I struggled with, was their approach to romance. Irish men don't tend to progress beyond the schoolyard stuff. In primary school, you're told that 'He's only being mean to you because he likes you'. And that's usually correct. I spent my youth assuming that boys would grow out of that stuff. However, I have been proven very wrong in this regard. I swear, if my hair was in pigtails, they would pull it and run away. Irish men will slag you for almost anything. Your accent, your secondary school, your tiny handbag, I've heard it all. A man trying to flirt by acting like he actually likes me? Now that's just weird. What do you mean, you 'like my dress'? You're not going to slag me? I don't know how to react to anything other than mild bullying. That's just how I was raised. Being too nice has got to be a red flag. Because all I'm thinking is, this niceness can't be genuine. You don't really care if I've got green eyes. Laugh at me for looking like I've never left the Pale, for god's sake! Basically, I was being forced to traverse some rocky terrain on my travels. Turning around to listen to a street performer, only to realise it was a man in flipflops, serenading you in Portuguese, ready to ask you if being from Ireland makes you British. Again, I wish I was joking. Sure, the cocktails were cheaper in Lisbon. But no six euro Aperol Spritz could fill the craic-shaped hole in my heart. I know I do a serious amount of complaining about Irish men in this column. And frankly, I think most of it is more than warranted. But you know when you're a kid, you beg your parents for a takeaway, and they inevitable respond by saying, 'We have food at home.' What I'm getting at is, maybe we should bring that kind of thinking on our holidays. They may be shy, but we do have boys at home. And they'll at least understand that compliments without slagging are just a little off-putting for the modern Irish woman. This has got to be some sort of Stockholm Syndrome… Read More Bernard O'Shea: Observe the Constitution of the Irish Family Holiday
