There’s a good chance you’re aware of what the Dead Sea is and where it’s located, but for many people, that’s where their knowledge pretty much ends. The Dead Sea is actually something that can seem really exotic and mysterious to many, as there are so many facts that aren’t necessarily common knowledge. The Dead Sea is bordered by Jorden and Israel and holds all kinds of incredible facts, as well as some pretty amazing health benefits, which is a big part of why it’s such a huge tourist draw.
So, whether you’re planning a trip to the Dead Sea or you’d just like to learn more about it, here are five things that you may not know about the Dead Sea.
The Dead Sea Isn’t a Sea at All
Despite being called the Dead Sea, this body of water isn’t a sea at all. Instead, the Dead Sea is a saltwater lake. With that said, it is the deepest saltwater lake in the entire world. At its deepest, it is 1004 feet. It gets even more interesting if you measure the sea’s depth in relation to the planet’s sea level. When you take that into account, the water surface and shores are actually 1,401 feet below sea level.
The Dead Sea Is Extremely Salty
Many realize that the Dead Sea is salty, but did you know that it’s actually among the saltiest lakes on the entire planet? When measuring its salt content, it contains 33.7% salt. There are a small handful of lakes saltier though, with Don Juan Pont in the McMurdo Dry Valleys in Antarctica being the saltiest at 44%.
You Won’t Find Life Forms in the Lake
Unlike many of the lakes on the earth’s surface, the Dead Sea doesn’t contain life. The problem is the salt level in the lake, which makes it too high for anything to live in there. From time to time during the rainy season, it can be possible that bacteria are able to grow, but that’s it.
It’s Not Your Average “Beach”
When you think of a sea or lake it’s common to also think about the beach or shoreline. This brings us to more interesting Dead Sea facts – the shoreline is actually covered in white crystals that are salt. It’s really quite a stunning sight to behold as it also captures and reflects the sunlight in the most beautiful way.
It Has Become a Big Destination for Health Tourism
Health tourism is still a relatively new branch of tourism, but the Dead Sea is one area that is extremely popular with health tourists. The salt is well known for its variety of health benefits, which can include helping to reduce dandruff, stress, pain, muscle aches, hives, psoriasis, acne, and more.
One of the Most Intriguing Lakes to Visit
If you’re looking for an exotic and truly spectacular place to visit on your next holiday, the Dead Sea is one of the most intriguing lakes, and locations, out there.
The world has so many beautiful cities with breath-taking sceneries, activities to do, and places to visit. Many of these towns are very famous, and it’s a dream of every intrepid traveller to visit them. Such cities include London, New York, Moscow, Tokyo, Dubai, and even Singapore. However, there are several cities that are so underrated but have very captivating sceneries. Cities like Budapest, Bled, and Moscow are considered to be off the beaten path, but they are the cities that will give you the best experience in the world. So, go ahead, book that Jettly flight, and get exploring them! Listed below are the most underrated yet very scenic cities around the world.
Auckland, New Zealand
It’s among the major cities in New Zealand. The city is a Metropolitan center on the North Island that boasts of two harbors, magnificent and natural landscapes, and volcanoes. It has an intriguing mix of the traditional Maori and little touch of western culture. There are very many activities to do in Auckland. These include visiting the Skytower, the Auckland Domain, the zoo, the aquarium, the war memorial museum, and the Tiritiri Matangi Island.
Banff, Canada
This is one of the cities I must go back to. The city is filled with very many fascinating places and sceneries to visit, for example, the Banff National Park, the magnificent mountains and lakes. Apart from the wildlife and scenic views, Banff has very great restaurants with delicious meals, delightful boutiques, and shops. One can also visit the Fairmont Banff Springs, the bow falls, the cave and basin National Historic site, the tunnel mountains, the Upper Hot Springs, and many more lovely sites.
El Nido, Philippines
With a very gorgeous and clean beach, this resort town on the Filipino island of Palawan is truly an off-the-beaten-path town. The city is known for its beaches with white sands and coral reefs and amazingly clear waters from the lagoons. Near the town is an island known as Shimizu that has water filled with all kinds of fish. The areas also have very many diving sites, such as the Dilumacad island tunnel that leads to a cavern under the water.
Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza is the largest wine region in Argentina. During my visit, I was excited to visit one of the bodegas for a wine tasting and a tour around the wineries. Apart from that, the city streets are evergreen and leafy, and the buildings full of modern art decor on buildings across the city. I also got a chance to visit the Museo Municipal de Arte Mordeno, a city that displays modern and contemporary art.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary that is divided into Buda and Pest by the Danube River. The city is also referred to as ‘the Paris of the East’ because of its magnificent architecture that makes Budapest look and feel awesomely unique. Several places that make Budapest a great destination include the Danube River, the ruin bars, thermal bath, historic churches, and the castle hill. Their traditional Hungarian cuisines are to die for.
Safed, Israel
Also known as Tzfat, this is a city in Northern District, Israel. Tzfat is said to be the birthplace of Kabbalah. It was also regarded as a Holy city shortly after the Jews were expelled from Spain in the early 1940s. It is also the highest city that is elevated over 900 meters high in Galilee. The city has the top most attraction centers frequently visited, including the Bat Ya’ar ranch. Soul and Art fine art gallery, Abuhav synagogue, The Ashkenazi Ha’Ari synagogue, and the Old City of Safed.
Galway, Ireland
Galway is known for its wild ‘stag and hen’ parties. The Irelanders are known to throw the wildest bachelor and bachelorette parties before getting hitched. The city is also known for its Irish character and spirit, starting with the pubs, their Irish folk music, and delicious cuisines. On the last trip I took to Galway, I was privileged enough to visit the breath-taking cliffs of Moher. I also visited very scenic and educational places, including the Spanish Arch, the Galway cathedral, the museum Lynch’s castles, the Atlantaquaria National aquarium, and a ride on the Aran Islands ferries, and even shopping on the streets.
This one is for all of those brave #veganuary souls out there who have successfully made it through the meat-free month so far… but who might be craving a meaty burger more than ever. Rachael Lindsay is one of the first to try the Moving Mountains Burger at The Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill in their restaurant of classic British fare, The Montagu Kitchen. Let’s see what she made of it.
I am not going to lie, it can sometimes be hard to eat plant-based when you are a big fan of fine dining, as I am. Especially when it comes to restaurants which feature classic British dishes. The vegans tend to be left with a bland veggie sandwich or plain salad. Cue sad face emoji.
However, I am excited to say that this Veganuary has not only brought us new vegan dishes from well-known chains like Greggs and Pizza Hut. But the fine dining restaurants that we know and love here at #TeamCoco are also getting in on the act. The latest contender to put on a vegan menu for the month of January is The Montagu Kitchen with a three-course medley of vegan delights.
Located in Marylebone with dishes inspired by the gardens at Chartwell, the private home of Sir Winston Churchill, the usual menu includes seasonal specials like Devonshire lamb, guinea fowl breast, whole dover sole and dry-aged beef tenderloin. So I was surprised to hear that they were producing a dedicated vegan menu, also inspired by Churchill and his former residence.
We start with a rose lemonade complete with edible rose petals and a tasty Jerusalem artichoke and black truffle soup served with warm herby bread. The soup manages to be both light and earthy, a nice prep for the more hearty main of a Moving Mountains burger with chips.
OK so this is the main event. The burger patty itself is made of 100% plants: coconut oil for fattiness, beetroot juice for a ‘bleed’ at the centre and plant proteins like pea and mushroom for a meaty flavour and texture. To be honest, for someone like me who has been vegan for some time, it is almost creepily similar to meat! My partner who is an avid meat-eater says that he wouldn’t know the difference between this and a beef patty if he closes his eyes. In true Montagu Kitchen style, the burger’s BBQ sauce is made with Churchill’s favourite whisky, Jonnie Walker and slices of grilled courgettes from Chartwell Gardens. It comes with some delicious chunky chips which I devour with ketchup (yes ketchup is vegan!).
Although we certainly don’t have enough room for pudding, we manage to fit in a huge slice of vegan chocolate and coconut cake for dessert. This is a melt-in-the-mouth beauty and I eat all of my generous slice, washed down with some more of that rose lemonade.
The Montagu Kitchen is both a relaxed and elegant space with velvet chairs embossed with floral motifs, reminiscent of the Chartwell Gardens, an open kitchen and attentive and friendly staff. For such high quality food, the new vegan set menu is excellent value at £25 for three courses over lunch or dinner.
For those who need a burger fix and/or a fine dining treat to get through Veganuary, The Montagu Kitchen and its meaty meat-free burger is your answer.
Easter weekend is finally upon us and it’s safe to say we’ve all been long looking forward to this bank holiday weekend – and the delicious food that will come along with it.
From an abundance of chocolate eggs and other confectionery, this weekend signals a cemented move into spring – so expect to see lots of roast lamb dishes; spring tarts and many more recipes filling your social media feeds.
But if you’re not up for cooking a feast – and there’s no shame in this if you simply want to relax this weekend – we have some excellent Easter celebratory meals for you to lust upon (and eventually enjoy!) this bank holiday.
Easter weekend with 28-50’s lamb
Easter 2022 is a rather fun celebration at 28-50 Chelsea and South Kensington – as both restaurants will be offering a limited edition dish across the whole weekend. Guests can devour a delicious lamb saddle served with Wye Valley asparagus, Jersey Royal potatoes and lamb jus – for just £24.95. You’ll forget about a homemade Sunday Roast in no time.
Complement this gorgeous meal with 28-50’s fabulously curated wine list and fully enjoy this bank holiday weekend with family and/or friends. A la carte menu dishes still remain, including the confit duck leg with Jerusalem artichokes, braised shallots and blackberry jus – as well as the renowned cheeseburger with smoked bacon and truffle mayo. If you’re craving something sweet to finish the meal, why not enjoy the lemon posset blood orange and sable biscuit – or caffeine lovers can opt for the coffee crème brûlée.
Made In Oldstead by Tommy Banks
If you don’t want to dine out on this bank holiday weekend, you can still enjoy an Easter meal cooked for you. Yorkshire-based Michelin-starred chef, Tommy Banks has a three-course feast ready to be delivered to your door. Known for his sustainable efforts in the kitchen, the menu focuses on ingredients which are foraged, picked or grown on or around Tommy’s family farm in Oldstead. Devour lamb neck with turnip velouté, lamb rump with a mini lamb pie nad porached rhubarb topped with a rosemary gel and cocoa crumb – with vegetarian and pescatarian options available too.
Duck & Waffle’s limited edition Golden Duck Egg Dessert
Finger always on the pulse with anything decadent and occasion-themed, Duck & Waffle has created an indulgent Golden Duck Egg dessert for guests to enjoy across Easter weekend.
Paired with one of London’s most iconic views, the decadent dessert features an orange puree yolk, surrounded by a light Valrhona Oplays white chocolate mousse and is encased in tempered Valrhona millk chocolate. Pasty Chef Singer’s creation is almost too beautiful to eat – almost – and is served with a maple caramel syrup. Why not make a meal of it and enjoy the traditional Easter Sunday or Monday lunch of a whole roast leg of lamb, with all the trimmings, this weekend too?
Easter for two from Pied à Terre
One of London’s oldest Michelin-starred restaurants is also catering for those who enjoy the finer eats in life this Easter, with a three-course vegan feast for two. The box includes a number of delicious dishes – including carrot patch hummus, “egg” plant casserole and a divine hot cross bun and butter pudding.
Easter Feasting on the 32nd Floor of The Shard at Oblix
Make this Easter weekend unforgettable – or the food, at least, with an exciting trip up The Shard in London. Oblix West will be serving a limited edition Easter bottomless brunch, with guests able to choose from the Rosé Brunch or the Champagne Brunch. Available across Saturday and Sunday in Oblix West, executive chef Marcus Eaves has curated a selection of starters including burrata, truffle flatbread or Diver scallops, as well as sea bass with lemon hollandaise, wild mushroom orzo with summer truffle and cashew cheese or signature pepper steak for mains. An Easter-themed dessert platter for the table is the perfect way to finish the meal.
Those dining at Oblix East will be treated to a sophisticated Easter Afternoon Tea, featuring seasonally-appropriate sandwiches, freshly-made scones and a variety of chocolate-themed sweet treats. There’s also a giveaway up for grabs, with one lucky winner receiving a golden ticket along with their Afternoon Tea and being treated to a limited edition homemade Oblix Easter egg.
Low food miles, foraged ingredients, and locally sourced fare with a modern twist? Count us in.
Proudly perched atop the Cotwolds hills, Burleigh Court has quietly been serving up some of the best local produce Gloucestershire has to offer. The award winning, two-rosette restaurant headed by chef Shaun Jones has been showcasing the very best locally reared meats and home-grown vegetables from the kitchen garden, all garnished with foraged ingredients plucked from nearby fields and hedgerows. With grand windows boasting sweeping views of the open countryside beyond, here you will find a classically styled restaurant with modern, delicious fare.
The restaurant is a clear reflection of its surroundings, the beautiful Burleigh Court Hotel. Wood panelling and a wide selection of artwork are complimented by the considerate soft touches scattered around the property: snuggly blankets for late evening al-fresco dining, sinkable plush sofas with dangerous nap potential. The dining room is formal enough to feel special, yet comfortable enough to feel like home. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy afternoon tea or a souped-up celebratory dinner, the Burleigh Court backdrop will have you feeling relaxed, nurtured, and well fed.
The menu, bustling with modern classics, will tempt even the fussiest of eaters. As an eco-conscious restaurant devoted to keeping food miles to a minimum, you can bet your bottom dollar that what arrives on your plate has not been languishing in the deep freeze for the last six months. The opportunity to sample a variety of local produce, cooked with the utmost respect and care, is one not to be missed. Whilst the menu boasts variety, for me, the true star of the show was their 30 day Dry-aged Local Chateaubriand. Seared to utter perfection, I have tried, and failed, to find a cut as succulent and perfectly cooked elsewhere. Served as a sharing dish for two, Burleigh Court’s take on steak was so delicious, I’d be tempted to have a solo bash at it on my next visit.
Herbivores, fear not: it’s not all about the meat. Burleigh Court’s bustling kitchen garden allows for some seriously delicious meat-free options. The Burleigh Court Garden Jerusalem Artichoke Pearl Barley with devilishly tart pickled shallots is a firm favourite for plant-based diets, whilst pescatarians can enjoy the best of the sea with Burleigh’s Tarragon Beurre Noisette Halibut with fennel, samphire, and clams. Desserts range from refreshing to indulgent, my favourites being the Stem Ginger Steamed Pudding with poached rhubarb, and the delectable yet aesthetically pleasing White Chocolate Mousse. Perfect for luring in the double taps on Instagram.
For the wine lovers, Burleigh Court’s expert staff are on hand to recommend a variety of grapes that will complement your dish, from champagne and sparkling to white, rosé and reds. The bar is also stocked with a wide variety of classic favourites, from Aperol Spritz for a hazy summer evening dining on the terrace, to Sandeman 10y Tawny Port to accompany your cheeseboard.
Insider tips:
1: Afternoon tea on the terrace can book up quickly in the summer months. Be sure to book ahead as far as possible.
2: A glass of Toffee Apple Moonshine liqueur is the perfect accompaniment to Burleigh Court’s Sticky Toffee Pudding.
3: Al Fresco dining with home-made sourdough wood fired pizzas is available in the warmer months. An experience not to be missed, curl up next to the firepit with a slice of pizza and a cocktail on a hazy summer night.
How to book:
Bookings can be made online or by telephone. For those making a night of it, rooms start from £139 per night.
For those thinking Hungary is just about goulash and Tokaji dessert wine, it is high time they took a visit to this stunning country in central Europe which is only 2 hours by plane from London. The capital of Hungary, Budapest has no less than 7 Michelin-starred restaurants. Since Hungary won Bocuse d’Or Europe in 2016 (the Olympics of the culinary world), they’ve been going from strength to strength and they will be hosting the European final of the Bocuse d’Or in March 2022.
The Bocuse d’Or Hungary success was down to Tamás Széll at Stand Budapest, which is also Michelin-starred (Tamás is now also the trainer at the Hungarian Bocuse d’Or Academy). Securing a table at Stand can be a tricky affair as they are busy on all days of the week. Whilst seasonal changes do occur, they’ve always kept Tamás’ award-winning dish, sterlet with cucumber salad and clam sauce topped with caviar. It’s decadent and it encapsulates the best of Hungary, with sterlet traditionally caught from the Danube. One thing to note is their vegetarian tasting menu which is quite an advancement for a nation that thrives on meat-eating, especially mangalitsa pork.
Café culture has been a crucial part of the Hungarian way of life and particularly since the end of communism in 1989. The New York Café is one of those iconic venues you must book in early to savour their world-famous afternoon teas.
Michelin-starred dining isn’t all about glitz and glam, you can get equally inventive food in a relaxed brasserie-style environment at Borkonyha Wine Kitchen. The key to Michelin success is often championing local ingredients, so at Borkonyha you get an extremely refreshing sturgeon with grapefruit and dashi. You will also often find beetroot in Hungarian dishes, so at their restaurant, it is served up to compliment quail and black salsify. The saturated colours make the dish visually appealing but the sweetness is the perfect foil for the mildly gamey flavours of the quail.
The wine industry has come on leaps and bounds since communism ended in Hungary in 1989. Arguably their most famous export is Tokaji dessert wine and dining at the fine dining restaurants mentioned previously, you’ll learn they are rated from 3 to 6 puttonyos. The higher the number, the higher is the sugar content and generally more valuable. Although you have to give careful consideration not to pair the sweetest dessert with a 6 puttonyos wine.
Much like the English wine industry, Hungarian sparkling wine is experiencing a booming market. One winery tour I would strongly recommend taking is to visit Kreinbacher estate in Somló. You get to sample exquisite wine with wonderful minerality due to the volcanic heritage of the area but also admire the stunning award-winning architecture of their winery with buildings that seamlessly blend in with the natural surroundings.
Why not combine winery tours with a spot of sightseeing? The ideal place for this is the historic town of Pannonhalma. The Benedictine Pannonhalma Archabbey and the accompanying library is one of the most impressive destinations in Hungary to visit and being situated on a hill in a relatively flat landscape, means you get unrivalled views of the countryside. Wine-making started here in 996 by Benedictine monks and has since been revived again post-communism.
The other destination to consider whilst you are exploring the scenic countryside is Lake Balaton. It is the largest lake in central Europe and where plenty of locals have their second homes and decamp over the summer months. A ferry ride across the pristine lake whilst admiring the sunset is one of those bucket list moments you will remember for the rest of your life. There are worthy dining options to consider in the area including the restaurant Kistücsök, which arguably started the modern Hungarian culinary revolution back in 1992. You can try classic Hungarian street food dishes like lángos, which is a deep-fried flatbread, and Mangalica ham.
Finally, if you are concerned about the calories, there are plenty of sightseeing opportunities to burn off the excess energy, particularly in Budapest. Budapest has one of the most spectacular parliament buildings in the world. Their grand staircase is truly a sight to behold and the best thing is they offer regular guided tours for you to enjoy. You get to tour half of the parliament building which used to be the House of Lords but that was abolished in 1945.
The other must-visit historic part of Budapest is the Buda Castle District filled with superlative attractions like the Moorish-influenced church Matthias and the recently renovated, St Stephen’s Hall of the Royal Palace. And you can’t say you’ve been to Hungary without having visited their world-famous bathhouses, like Spa Széchenyi. It’s the largest medicinal spa in Europe, the most visited attraction in Budapest, it has 18 pools and 10 saunas/steam cabins. This is just the kind of destination that reminds you why you’ve missed travelling so much in the last few years.
For more information on their beautiful country, please check out https://visithungary.com/
Christmas may be over but Six by Nico is carrying the festive cheer all the way through to joyful January with the ‘Miracle On’ Christmas menu.
There’s a story every six weeks at Six by Nico, and the ‘Miracle On’ menu – which was launched on the 14th and will run until the 9th of January is certainly one worth telling.
The six-course menu is a celebration of old-fashioned nostalgia. From Christmas traditions to festive decorations, the menu is a journey back to Christmas spent with family – and serves as a reminder of why we cherish it so much today.
The ‘Miracle On’ menu was inspired by beloved Christmas themes and goes like…
Memories of a Christmas Market – Smoked Sausage & Onion Compote, Smoked Sausage Espuma, Crispy Potato, Gherkins & Pickled Shallots
Partridge in a Pear Tree – Partridge, Duck & Chicken Boudin, Haricot bean, Pickled Walnut & Salsify
Who Doesn’t Like Brussel Sprouts – Chanterelle Mushroom, Sprout Tops, Ewes Cheese Royale, Confit Egg & Fermented Black Garlic
Smoked Salmon Blinis – Smoked Salmon, Celeriac, Queen Kale & Granny Smith Apples, Smoked Caviar & Potato Blini Foam
Festive Fun and Game – Haunch of Venison, Game Pie, Jerusalem artichoke, Toasted Hazelnut Emulsion & Sherry Juś.
Buche De Noel – Dulce de Leche Mousseline, Sour Cherry, White Glacage & Hazelnut, Chocolate Aero
Commenting on his latest culinary masterpiece, Nico Simeone said: “Nothing will stop us all from having a fun-filled Christmas this year, and I think we all appreciate festivities more than ever.
Most of us are familiar with the traditional Christmas lunch and all the trimmings but this December, our team at Six by Nico wanted to bring the magic of Christmas nostalgia to the plate with our ‘Miracle On’ menu and create the perfect Christmas dining experience for all of our customers”.
Miracle On is open from midday, Monday through to Sunday in Six by Nico Canary Wharf. Each six-course menu will be available from noon. The menu will be priced at £37 per person with the option to enjoy an expertly selected wine pairing for an additional £33 at each restaurant. As ever, there is a vegetarian alternative available for every course, as well as festive inspired snack sides, such as Sourdough bread with festive spiced chicken fat butter and Pigs in blankets; smoked ham hock and pancetta ballotine from £5.
Our #TeamCoco review is coming soon – so watch this space
Central St. Martins trained, innovative pattern cutter, clothing designer mastermind, mother, climber, yogi and 3RD ROCK founder, Jessica Mor.
Tell us about the journey that led you to launch your brand 3RD ROCK…
3RD ROCK’s journey started in 2009 while I was a pattern cutter for catwalk designers in the London fashion industry.
I was acutely aware of the destructive side of the fashion industry and quit when I was asked to cut an Arctic fox fur jacket. Being asked to create something from the fur of an endangered species was the final straw.
A month later I found myself on an African conservation project as a volunteer to clear my conscience. While in South Africa I met my now husband and he introduced me to rock climbing. I totally fell in love with it and noticed a big gap in the market for well-fitted, functional yet beautiful climb-wear.
I was inspired to create my own alternative clothing brand, focusing on made-to-move, ethically-produced garments that enhance performance and comfort.
Over the next two years, I designed and developed our first collection and launched 3RD ROCK to the world in July 2012. Since then the brand has grown and grown. We are now an established online brand with customers across the UK, Europe, USA and Japan.
And we’re now moving into everyday activewear. Yes, we make clothing that is tough, strong and flexible for climbers, and in climbing, clothes need to be durable but also the epitome of comfort – moving with the body in an extreme way. But I’ve now taken this level of tailoring and transferred it into clothes for whatever active lives people want to lead, whether it’s yoga, running or spin. I know if it works for climbers, it will work for anyone in their everyday lives.
I started 3RD ROCK because I needed to make clothing that is useful, that is worn to death, and that is respectful to the planet and its inhabitants.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced and how did you overcome it?
When I started the business I took off my kitchen door and used that as a ‘big’ work table in a small spare corner to create my clothes, but when the business started to grow beyond what I could manage alone, I realised that I needed a team and more space, things then got serious. The responsibility of having people working for you brings a lot of pressure financially and you have to make it work for their livelihoods as well as your own.
There were many ‘fires’ to be put out that would pop up all the time in the beginning, but I have learnt that forward planning and foreseeing problems in advance can help avoid big meltdowns and more stress.
Saying that, it’s child’s-play compared to balancing family and running a business – but I know I’m not the only woman out there juggling both, I’d say it’s important to laugh…a lot…and dance through it, which I do, round the office mostly, these days.
If you to were to describe your business mantra in three words, what would they be?
ETHICAL. RESPONSIBLE. INNOVATIVE… and PLAYFUL (can I have four? Please!)
Rock Climbing Clothing
What advice would you offer anyone interested in venturing into the lifestyle clothing sector?
Know your audience and what their needs are. In an area as specialist as climbing I need to understand how climbers wear my clothes, how they move in them and what pressures they put them under. The same principle goes for everyday wear.
Not being afraid to listen when things don’t work is another piece of advice I would give. Sometimes it’s easy to get defensive and believe you have the perfect idea but being open to other peoples’ suggestions means sometimes great changes happen – making a change where needed can transform a business.
And staying true to what you believe and what you want your business to stand for is really important. Tapping into your personal interests helps keep your passion alive – do something you love and the rest falls into place (most of the time).
Finally, stick to what you are good at in the business you are growing. It’s so easy to get into a rut of doing everything yourself but delegate to survive. Find the right people to work with – they’ll do it faster and better. Stick to your forte.
Business and Brand Development
Talk us through an average business day in your life…
Well first thing I get sat on in bed by two small kids and a cat, then I rush around to get breakfasts made, lunches packed, forest kit sorted for the little one and stains out of school ties. Then I leave the house with just enough time to make the school gate before it’s closing!
I eat my breakfast at work while checking my emails and getting organised for the day. Then I spend my mornings exploring and creating new clothing patterns, developing garments and working with our production manager to finalise samples with factories, doing fittings in the office and testing our new development lines.
A lot of what I do focuses on how we make product advancements and improve our processes. I’m always on the lookout for new styles and trends as well as improvements to 3RD ROCK’s sustainable credentials, so research is a big part of my job as well as talking to our network of suppliers and partners.
Then in the afternoon I’m in the Studio – I’m sewing, fitting the garments I’ve made, amending the patterns, re-cutting and sewing until the fit and movement of the garments work perfectly. I make a lot of working samples that we can give to climbers to test for us and feedback on their experience with them.
In between all of that we have a lot of fun as a team. Breaks are important – they’ll hate me for saying this but I do like to get the team up to have a little dance. I’m obsessed with dance music; Cola by CamelPhat is my fave tune!
Business can be an upward struggle at times, what do you do to stay positive?
Climbing. It’s such a wonderful form of escapism and freedom. If I’m battling a problem, or a design just won’t quite work, I can head out and just clear my head. Just working my way up a long sports climb route, where all you focus on are the moves you make, is like therapy for my head and I feel like a new person when I come down. I suppose there is an element of mindfulness to it as you have to live in the moment and other pressures melt away.
Lifestyle and Yoga Clothing
I love yoga and hanging with the family too….and I mentioned the dancing!
Also, our office and studio is in an Old Mill set in the most beautiful grounds, called the River Gardens – which happen to have enormous swan pedalos on it at the moment, so occasionally we go out as a team and race up the river on those. If we aren’t feeling as lively we can always escape out there and take a minute to walk around and reset.
What is your go-to quote when lacking motivation?
“Come on Jessie, you can do it”
Gives me throw backs to my South African tennis coach when I was ten but it still rings true now!
How much has social media played a role in the success of your brand?
Social media plays a huge role – it’s the way business is going now, especially for small, independent businesses like ours. It’s how you connect with people – provide them with news, shop and connect.
We find that Instagram is particularly good at allowing us to show the personality of the brand and also gives our ambassadors opportunity to talk to us and inspire other people with their experiences and climbing stories.
How do you want people to feel when they first see and try on a 3RD ROCK item of clothing?
Empowered, confident, comfortable, with a clear conscience and ready for action. I want them to fall in love with the garments and never want to take them off.
Our clothes are made well – in every sense – so people buy, consciously knowing they’ve made a good choice for them and the planet.
Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list, and which of your clothing line would you take with you?
Wow, that is a good question – there are so many places I’d love to go! I think it would be between Israel and Thailand. We have a lot of friends and family in Israel and with the lockdowns and travel restrictions we haven’t been able to see them for so long. It will be a very special trip when we can get back there.
But then Ton Sai, Thailand is where my husband and I forged the idea for 3RD ROCK, while on a climbing trip (it’s a climbers paradise) – the rest as they say is history. Go there, it’s stunning!
As for what I would take with me, I’d need a decent sized rucksack, and in it I’d pack a pair of Buttress denim shorts, our new tough Matilda leggings to protect against the ‘tufas’ (stalactites) which you need to get very physical with. I’d also take my Equinox bra and Tide bikini set, as I could wear those for deep water soloing and lazing on the beach afterwards.
Can I go there now please?
Buttress Denim Shorts (L) and Equinox Bra with Tide Bikini Set (R)
What’s next for you and your brand?
The brand is moving forward fast. As I mentioned before we are diversifying into more yoga and activewear with our AW lines and Summer 22 collection. We are also exploring collaborations with other artists for a limited edition print collective called WILD I.
Our collaboration with vintage, nostalgic designer Julie Nixon of Craftevan launched this summer – it’s a capsule collection that’ll see you channeling those nostalgic vibes.
Craftevan Tee (L), Craftevan Shorts (C) and Venny Tee (R)
The pieces are inspired by childhood memories like camping in the woods, road trips and most of all adventures in classic cars. Julie’s beautiful hand drawn designs explore 60s flower power and a love for retro adventure in fabric. I’ve brought our signature made-to-move cut to the table and created the clothes in soft-as-butter, organic cotton and sustainable fabrics, so it really is something special.
We hope to do more of this in 2022.
Also, in the lead up to Christmas we have very exciting new denim styles launching, which are poised to be the most ethical jeans out there. They’re black and feature our special 3RD ROCK 4-way stretch EcoMorph Denim that even has recycled elastane too this season. The women’s style is a skinny high rise called Marple and the men’s is called Mercury – our signature style cut finally made in denim. Hoorah!
Marple Jeans for women (L), Mercury Jeans for men (R)
Hannah Tan-Gillies and our intrepid doggy reporter #TeamCocopup Charlie have checked into The Pheasant Inn for two nights of elevated pub food, impeccable service and to explore all the rustic delights of nearby Hungerford and Marlborough.
On an exceedingly scenic corner of Berkshire, sits The Pheasant Inn Lambourn, a wonderfully charming pub/inn that will outdo every one of your staycation expectations.
A well-loved local landmark, the Pheasant Inn welcomed hotelier/restauranteur Jack Greenall as its new landlord in 2016 and has since undergone a top-to-bottom refurbishment. While I have not seen the Pheasant Inn pre-refurb, it is clear from staff and regulars alike that the renovation respected the inn’s rich heritage, which can be traced back to 1750.
Check-in is at the pub, which offers a familiar and relaxing atmosphere, amidst a rich canvas of warm colours, textures, and plenty of quirky art to look at. The pub comprises a main dining area, a more relaxed (and dogfriendly) pub dining area, and a cosy snug – which comes with its own eclectic collection of prints, and books. This isn’t your ordinary local, because the food at the Pheasant Inn is certainly the best-of-the-best in terms of modern British fare, with each dish offering a fresh new take on timeless pub classics.
Before we ‘dig in’ to the menu, we fist check into our gorgeous bedroom. The Pheasant Inn has 14, individually-designed en-suite bedrooms which are as cosy as they are stylish. All bedrooms were designed by London-based interior designer Flora Soames, each offering its own unique take on contemporary yet quintessential British charm. Our bedroom had outdoor access, which is ideal for those travelling with pooches.
Bathed in light and oozing with charm, our room featured an eclectic red and yellow floral headboard, which anchored the space and informed our room’s rich colour palette. It also featured a shabby chic wardrobe, a fluted blush armchair, delightful nature-inspired prints, Egyptian cotton sheets, and a vintage Robert DAB radio. The bathroom also offered indulgent Bamford toiletries – which to my delight, the inn also sells individually.
Breakfast is served in the main dining room and includes all the British classics, done exceedingly well and produced with only the best locally-sourced ingredients. In typical millennial fashion, I had the smashed avocado on toasted sourdough, with chili, lime and coriander, while my husband had the hearty English breakfast. Both dishes were served to absolute perfection, and complemented with fresh juices, breads, jams, and coffees.
There is plenty to explore in this special little corner of the Berkshires. The Pheasant Inn borders the nearby village of Shefford Woodlands which home to the famed Valley of the Racehorse. Meanwhile, the market town of Marlborough is just a 12 mile driver away across the Wiltshire County border. Here you can gawk at half-timbered cottages, ornate red brick mansions, and shop at the bustling local market from Wednesdays to Saturdays.
There is plenty to see in nearby Hungerford too. This historic town is antique-lovers paradise and it is easy to lose hours in one of the many antique arcades looking for lost treasures. A walk along the picturesque Kennet and Avon canals is also recommended for well-behaved pooches, before taking a break in one of the many quaint cafés on the high street. Our favourite was the hearty, healthy and dog friendly Eliane Café.
Further out in Reading, there is Basildon Park, whose main house exterior you may remember from films like ‘Pride & Prejudice’ and more recently ‘The Gentleman’ or as the handsome London estate of ‘Downton Abbey’s’ The Crawleys. The gardens are filled with beautiful blooms and are dog friendly too – perfect for a day out exploring.
It’s almost impossible to choose just one standout feature for The Pheasant Inn, which so far has certainly impressed in every way, but if we had to choose just one, it would be the incredible food at the pub. The Pheasant Inn’s food philosophy is to ‘simply and deliciously’ bring together only the best ingredients, and this certainly reflects in the quality of the food on offer.
The menu is rooted in classic British cooking and regularly changes to showcase the best of the locally-sourced fish, meats, and artisanal products from the UK. The sausages and wild meat are from the neighbouring Walter Rose & Sons, while the charcuterie comes from Gloucestershire’s Kelmscott Country Pork. The artisanal cheese is from Harvey & Brockless, while the fish is from Cornwall’s Flying Fish and Seafoods. An impressive roster, made up of the best of the best British suppliers with each one showcasing the wealth of produce that we have on offer in the UK.
For dairy/egg intolerance sufferers like myself, there is also a vegan/gluten free menu available – a sign of the times and of The Pheasant Inn’s commitment to catering for all.
We started with the Calamari and Tempura prawns, both perfectly cooked and accompanied by garlic aioli and lemon. For the mains, we recommend the Wiltshire Lamb Rump, which replaces the usual gravy or red wine jus with a surprising yet delightful black olive tapenade.
On our first evening, I sampled the vegan menu and had the roast Jerusalem artichokes, accompanied by sautéed wild mushrooms, charred broccoli, and toasted almonds. This totally vegan dish was bursting with flavours without being overpowering. Both meals at The Pheasant Inn proved that no matter what dietary challenges you may give the kitchen staff, they will not fail to blow you away.
No meal would be complete without the perfect glass of wine and The Pheasant Inn has 70 wines to choose from, with 28 available by the glass. There is also a wide selection of hand-pulled local cask ales and spirits. The Pheasant Inn also made sure that Charlie enjoyed his dining experience too, providing him with his own dog bed and a generous smattering of treats.
After months of lockdown, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from The Pheasant Inn, but after our truly wonderful stay, this place and the wonderful people that run it has certainly carved out a special place in my memory. From the warm and welcoming staff, the truly excellent breakfast, dinner, and everything else in between, The Pheasant Inn is a true gem in the Berkshires and has gone above and beyond every single one of my expectations.
We’re ready to get back to our #traveladdict lifestyle and where better to kick things off than London. With so many new openings coming up, we’re going to be spoiled for choice.
From Madrid to Milan, via Tel Aviv, the latest NYX hotel is set to take London by storm. Landing in the capital on 17th May, the UK’s first NYX Hotel – NYX Hotel London Holborn – named after the Greek goddess of the night, is a unique and exciting hotel that celebrates the vibrancy and culture of the city.
Plugging in to the energy of the capital, NYX is designed for the open-minded, the curious and the culturally savvy. Relaxed luxury runs throughout the bedrooms, with the Rena Spa offering a space for relaxation and rejuvenation. Pair that with the buzzing bar & restaurant and you’ll have an experience quite unlike any other.
From the sultry lighting and incredible music, to thought-provoking modern artwork and creative food and cocktails; NYX appeals to each and every sense. Every space, room, nook and cranny has been expertly created with networking, socialising and unwinding in mind as well as comfort and style. With a black book of London’s hidden gems, from stores to secret gardens, and access to some of the capitals’ best cultural events, NYX is the perfect base to explore and celebrate the city.
NYX offers 213 ultra-modern bedrooms and suites designed with relaxation and comfort in mind from its exclusively designed ‘Dream’ beds and bespoke feather and down duvets. Additional features include fully-stocked Smeg fridges, Nespresso coffee machines, cosy robes and slippers and surprising VIP touches for every guest.
The Rena Spa provides a decadent escape from the concrete jungle and features an expansive indoor Greco-Roman swimming pool complete with loungers, a fully equipped gym and elegant, spacious treatment suites for a whole host of therapies.
At the heart of the hotel is the NYX bar & restaurant – eclectic interiors, a crowd-pleasing menu, DJs until 3am most nights and a carefully curated range of engaging events means no two nights are ever the same. Mix and mingle, over Dressed Up’ Insta-worthy cocktails and a menu that runs the gamut from all-day brunch dishes like panettone French toast and chorizo shakshuka, through to adobo chicken and chopped salads, as well as sharers, including the ‘mother of all nacho platters’.
Don’t just stay at NYX, experience NYX.
NYX Hotel London Holborn – we own the night.
999 rooms for £99 or a two night stay for £169? Details are: Make a night of it and take advantage of the special introductory room rate of £99 for one night, don’t delay, there’s only 999 rooms available! Simply enter the promo code NEWNYX to redeem this offer. To book a a stay visit www.hotelsbynyx.com
