Latest news with #British-inspired
Cosmopolitan
28-05-2025
- Cosmopolitan
Pubs, vintage markets and more: Why Deal, Kent, should be your next long weekend location
If you were to describe your ideal weekend staycation, the chances are Deal would tick every single box. We're talking brilliant pub gardens with draft beer on tap. A Saturday morning market with antique glassware and vintage leather jackets. Long beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see - in both directions. So next time you're planning a long weekend away (but are keen to jump in the car rather than go anywhere near an airport) consider this quaint coastal town in Kent - which is so lovely, we almost didn't want to tell you about it. While hotels have their place and B&Bs come with the added bonus of someone frying your eggs for you, nothing comes close to having your own place during a weekend away with friends. Step forward: Keepers Cottages, a selection of hand-picked places in the county, perfect for making yourself at home. We stayed at Farrier Beach Cottage, a beautiful Grade II listed building situated between the seafront and the town centre. It had two well sized bedrooms, and all of the charm you'd hope for from a mid-1600s cottage, but with a Soho House-styling twist. We're talking a wood burner, exposed beams and panelling, as well as comfy armchairs you can squish into as the evening draws in. It also has a secret weapon in the shape of an enclosed courtyard out back - the perfect sun trap if you get lucky with the Kent weather. The cottage comfortably sleeps four, and has the perfect kitchen/dining set up for your own cooked meals. Although when you see what's on offer on the restaurant front, that maybe doesn't matter so much... Farrier Beach Cottage is available from £755 for seven nights, or £575 for two nights. Find out more information here. A charming spot set back from the beach, you'll be hard pushed not to order one of everything from Frog and Scot's sharing plates menu. A mix of Asian / British-inspired dishes, we genuinely could've eaten everything on offer - we're talking crispy tempura scallops, a melt-in-the-mouth katsu pork dish, crab arancini balls and homemade foccacia. The decor is equally photogenic, while we were blown away by the whisky soda cocktail. Another round, please! The Port Arms Truly, what is nicer than an afternoon spent sat by the sea, with a cold pint in hand, watching the world go by? The picnic tables in front of The Port Arms - but also served by a couple of other pubs - is a great place to settle in and enjoy some great British weather (read: try not to blow away in the wind.) A shabby chic pub slap-bang in the middle of the high street, which serves exceptionally good cocktails and food. The decor mixes together high and low - think farmhouse table with velvet banquette - while the menu ticks all the right boxes, whatever you're in the mood for. From a pan-roasted rack of lamb, to charred leeks, fat chips and skate wing, to a cherry and almond tart. Wash everything down with a dirty martini or two and a classic negroni - go on, we insist. For your morning caffeine fix, head to Popup Cafe - a great spot with a Scandi vibe and incredible coffee and pastries. We had an almond croissant to write home about, as well as a piece of banana bread and two iced oat lattes. Yes please. Whether you hit up Deal Castle or Walmer Castle and Gardens, be sure to carve out some time for a bit of history within your weekend. Walmer was an artillery fort originally constructed by Henry VIII, and has gorgeous and well kept gardens, while both castles overlook the sea. If you're lucky enough to have beautiful sunshine during your weekend away, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to coastline. The pebble beach stretches for three whole miles between Kingsdown and Sandwich, so whether you settle down with a picnic blanket or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, this is not an activity to be missed. It's a well known fact that you can't go to a British seaside town without heading to the arcades. And thankfully, Deal has enough 2p machines to see you through a whole afternoon.. So indulge in some good old fashioned nostalgia and see if you can win enough raffle tickets to take home a cuddly toy. If you happen to be in Deal on a weekend, the Saturday market is a great way to start your way. Whether you fancy a sausage roll or a Flat White, be sure to browse the various different stalls after you've fuelled up. There's an amazing selection of vintage leather jackets (very Hailey Bieber) as well as antiques and homeware. Also, a flea market sometimes takes place in the village hall. See you there! Dusty Baxter-Wright is an award-winning journalist and the Entertainment and Lifestyle Director at Cosmopolitan, having previously worked at Sugarscape. She was named one of PPA's 30 Under 30 for her work covering pop culture, careers, interiors and travel, and oversees the site's Entertainment and Lifestyle strategy across print, digital and video. As a journalist for the best part of a decade, she has interviewed everyone from Louis Theroux and Channing Tatum to Margot Robbie and Ncuti Gatwa, while she has also spoken on Times Radio and BBC Radio. You can find her on Twitter and Instagram here.
Zawya
30-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai real estate enters a new growth phase as market nears pre-2008 highs
Dubai, United Arab Emirates - As Dubai's property market surges toward pre-2008 peak levels, real estate developers are adopting a more calculated approach to expansion in 2025, pivoting from aggressive growth. [1] LEOS Developments, in the past 18 months, has launched nine distinctive projects across Dubai, each reflecting a shift toward diversification, sustainability, and design-led living. With rising prices, saturated prime districts, and increased competition for investor attention, industry leaders are recalibrating strategies to spread risk and maintain long-term value. This strategic approach is most visible in newly emerging districts. For example, in Dubailand, where average price-per-square-foot rose 38% in 2024 according to primary data, LEOS recently unveiled Weybridge Gardens 4, a mid-rise residential development offering 294 units, including private-pool sky villas and wellness-inspired rooftop amenities. The project exemplifies a wider trend of lifestyle-driven housing designed for a new generation of investors seeking returns without compromising on quality or innovation. In Greenwood, LEOS is developing Kensington Gardens, part of a 3.95 million square meter master community designed around sustainable infrastructure, wellness, and British-inspired architecture. With over 90% sold, it reflects the growing demand for lower-density alternatives to Dubai's more saturated hubs. These projects form part of LEOS' broader over AED 5 billion pipeline, which spans multiple districts and market segments, from urban residences in JVC to wellness-first communities like Knightsbridge in Meydan's District 11. This portfolio diversification is not just a growth strategy, but a response to shifting investor priorities of stable returns, livability, climate-adaptive infrastructure, and more recently sustainability. Sustainability in amenities such as solar panel systems, smart water infrastructures, and biodiversity strategies, as seen in the Knightsbridge project, respond to both environmental mandates and evolving investor expectations. As Dubai's market continues to evolve, LEOS Developments is positioning itself not only as a prolific builder, but as a forward-thinking player redefining how and where investment value is created in the city. Press contact: Selena Abu-Ras, Account Executive, selena@ About LEOS Development LEOS Developments is an award-winning international property and lifestyle developer. Born in the UK in 2013, LEOS has been expanding its presence in the Middle East with the release of world-class residential communities in Meydan, Jumeirah Village Circle, Jumeirah Village Triangle, Dubailand & Greenwood. The company is renowned for its innovative British designs and specialises in residential, commercial, and mixed-use real estate, offering services ranging from land sourcing to asset management. With nine projects currently underway in the UAE, LEOS continues to solidify its reputation for delivering exceptional developments. With a proven track record in delivering quality developments, LEOS has transformed old courthouses and built premium residential properties in sought-after locations like Mayfair, London. Its mission is to create an exemplary standard of living for residents by delivering quality properties that integrate successfully with the environment and community, bringing British and European quality standards to the UAE real estate market. [1]
BBC News
02-03-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
The Brits 2025: A night of glitz, glamour and awesome awards
The Brit Awards, one of the biggest music award ceremonies in the UK, took place in London on Saturday awards celebrate the best artists and music from the UK and around the world. Charli XCX wins big The spotlight was shining brightly on Charli XCX, who had a super successful night. She took home FIVE awards, including the biggest ones of all – Best Artist, Best Album, and even Song of the Year for her hit track Guess, which is a collaboration with Billie Eilish. Solo success for Little Mix's Jade Jade Thirlwall is now on her solo journey away from Little Mix, but she's still winning awards. She picked up the Best Pop Artist award at the also had one of the busiest live performances of the night, with several outfit changes. Over the course of the night, she wore six different outfits. But her impressive dress proved difficult as she climbed the stairs to pick up her trophy. Thankfully the girl group Sugababes were there to hand over the award and helped her up the steps. Sabrina Carpenter kicks the night off Also performing on the night was Sabrina Carpenter, who opened the show with a British-inspired performance of Espresso, Bed Chem and Rule, also took home the Brits Global Success Award, which was brought back to the ceremony this year. The singer spent an incredible 21 weeks at number one in the UK singles chart last year - more than anyone has ever achieved in a single calendar year. The other big winners Chappell Roan also had an incredible night, winning the award for Best International Artist and International Song of the of the most exciting moments of the night was when Myles Smith won Best Rising Star. Just one year ago, he quit his job to follow his dream of making music and now he's got a shiny award to show for it. Stormzy was looking extra cool as he accepted the prize for Best Rap/Hip-Hop Artist, but if you're wondering why he was wearing sunglasses indoors, it's because he had accidentally hurt his eye playing padel."I'm wearing shades because I mashed up my eye playing padel [ball]," said Stormzy, as he accepted his award. "I've got a very sore eye - I'm not being a mad man with shades on inside." Finally, Ezra Collective made history by becoming the first jazz band to win Best Group. They took a moment to thank the youth clubs and schools that helped them growing up."This moment right here is because of the great youth clubs and the great teachers, and the great schools that support young people playing music," said frontman Femi prove his point, he invited the London youth group Kinetika Bloco onto the stage to play Ezra Collective's jazz anthem Shaking Body.
Korea Herald
06-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
BBQ launches strawberry-themed afternoon tea set for Valentine's Day
Korean chicken giant BBQ Chicken is marking Valentine's Day with limited-time strawberry-themed afternoon tea sets at its flagship store, BBQ Village Songnidangil. The Songnidangil location has launched the "Love in London" campaign, featuring a British-inspired afternoon tea set, strawberry desserts and a special strawberry beer. The promotion runs through April 30. The afternoon tea set, priced at around 20,000 won ($13.83) per person, includes strawberry macarons, dacquoise, mille-crepe cake, tiramisu, Earl Grey scones, yogurt and Nanaimo bars. It comes in two variations: the Simple Set and the Classic Set, which includes additional mini chicken burgers and croissant sandwiches. The desserts were developed by two five-star hotel culinary experts: pastry chef Lee Jong-seong, formerly of Four Seasons Hotel in Australia, and chef Lee Kang-min, who trained at Walkerhill Hotel. Other menu highlights include a caramel liqueur cheesecake and a limited-edition strawberry beer created in collaboration with Gorilla Beer Brewery. Known for offering more than just fried chicken, BBQ Village Songnidangil has positioned itself as a multiconcept dining space, serving wood-fired pizza, pasta and premium desserts alongside its signature menu items, the company said. 'The Love in London promotion brings a refined seasonal experience, ideal for Valentine's Day, White Day and special gatherings with loved ones,' a BBQ official said. 'We will continue to introduce themed dining experiences, from multicourse meals to seasonal afternoon tea sets.'
Yahoo
30-01-2025
- Yahoo
7 of the best adult-only cruises for 2025
An adult-only cruise is a great way for parents to have a well-deserved break from the kids, as well as benefiting older and child-free passengers looking for a more relaxing experience at sea. And there is lots of choice. Some cruise lines are adult-only across the fleet while others have ships reserved for those aged 18 and above. There may not be waterslides or ice-skating rinks onboard, but instead you can expect more space to relax and unwind or even just a chance to relive your younger days on the dance floor without your children watching. Another benefit of cruising without children is that you may be able to travel outside of peak season when fares are typically cheaper. There is an itinerary for everyone ranging from themed sailings to Caribbean and Canary Island cruises, Mediterranean voyages or chances to see the northern lights. Here are some of the best adult-only cruises for 2025. Ambassador is adult-only for most the year apart from some multi-generational sailings during the school holidays. You won't have to worry about running into kids on this fjord-filled 14-night northern lights cruise though. Departing from London Tilbury aboard Ambassador's newest ship Ambition, this sailing even squeezes in a visit to Ijmuiden, giving passengers an access point to Amsterdam. You will also get a prime view to hopefully see the northern lights on deck during stops in Alesund, Tromso and Alta, known as hotspots for the aurora borealis. Passengers can also enjoy sailing through the Norwegian fjords and experience the colourful architecture of Bergen. Ambassador is very much geared towards adults, with a focus on the over-50s market. Ambition features an onboard card room and lots of British-inspired areas such as the Cavern bar, named after the Liverpool club where the Beatles played. Departs 23 February. From £999pp. Read moreThe best northern lights cruises Marella Cruises may have a strong reputation for family cruising but it also has a ship reserved for adults. Marella Explorer 2 has a golf-themed bar with its own simulator or a more laid-back Flutes piano bar where you can sip champagne or Prosecco as you sail across the Caribbean on this seven-night cruise. The cruise departs from La Romana in the Dominican Republic and you will soon be smelling spices in St George's, Grenada, before exploring the beaches on Barbados and gazing at the rainforest covered mountains and banana plantations of Castries, St Lucia. UK flights and all onboard tips and selected alcoholic drinks are also included. Departs 4 March. From £1,606pp. Read more: The best Caribbean cruises Get pampered during a 12-day Atlantic crossing with luxury brand Seabourn. Departing from Miami, you will spend eight relaxing days at sea aboard Seabourn Encore heading to Ponta Delgada in Portugal before you disembark in Lisbon. Expect personalised service throughout the voyage, with just 600 passengers onboard. As a small ship provider, Seabourn is geared towards adults and there are no kids' facilities on board. That leaves more space for spas, gourmet dining experiences and bars. There is also an onboard show curated by director Sir Tim Rice to highlight some of his best work from Jesus Christ Superstar to Aladdin and The Lion King. You can tell the kids or grandkids about it when you get home. Departs 28 April 2025. From £3,399pp. Visit some of the Med's emerging destinations without any kids asking 'are we nearly there yet?' Sailing aboard P&O Cruises' dedicated adult-only Arcadia ship for 19 nights, you will have the added convenience of getting on and off in Southampton. Rather than typical Mediterranean hotspots such as Barcelona and Lisbon, passengers can discover new cities like Cadiz in Spain and Zadar in Croatia. Onboard facilities include a spa, pool, theatre shows and the chance to dine in Marco Pierre White's onboard Ocean Grill. Departs 13 July. From £2,079pp. Read more: The best Med cruises for 2025 A river cruise is a great option for an adult-only sailing. It's a date night or week away with a difference. Couples can spend quality time together on Viking's Romantic Danube cruise. The eight-day sailing visits medieval towns a such as Budapest's castle district, the picturesque Wachau Valley and major European cities including Vienna where you can attend Mozart-themed concerts. One shore excursion is included in each port of call. Departs 14 November. From £1,495pp, includes return flights from London and select regional airports. Read more: The best river cruises around the world Have a laugh with your loved one or friends during this comedy-themed cruise. Virgin Voyages is known for its party atmosphere, especially on during its Scarlet Night activation and there are also 20 bars and restaurants to enjoy, including the Gunbae Korean barbecue. Departing from Portsmouth, you can explore La Coruña, Bilbao and Bordeaux by day. At night, Scarlet Lady's entertainment venues will be transformed into a comedy club. The lineup hasn't been confirmed yet but last year it featured Russell Howard and Simon Brodkin. Departs 30 August 2025. From £1,976pp. If you prefer more mature crowds, over-50s brand Saga Cruises could be a good option. Catch some winter sun aboard Spirit of Discovery to explore the Canary Islands during a 15-night sailing. Journey through the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote, visit the mountains of Madeira or relax on the beaches of Tenerife. Specialty dining and most drinks are covered in your fare, plus there is a free excursion included on stops in Madeira, La Palma, Lanzarote and Cadiz. Onboard, you can enjoy daily afternoon tea, unwind in the spa or take part in craft classes and deck games. You can even get a private chauffeur to the drive you to and from the port if you live up to 75 miles away. Departs 15 October 2025. From £4,771pp. Read more: What's new for cruises in 2025?
