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Online shopping for clothes is a challenging process. How will you try many sizes? How will you know that the fabric will feel good on your skin? These are some of the hard questions you will ask yourself when you intent to buy the perfect cloth you saw in an online fashion guide. With the advancements in technology, fraud cases are low. It makes the process a little more genuine than before. Here, you will access the best tips to follow to buy clothes online.

Check the measurements

The height of model in the picture is very crucial. Does the model have flat or heels? Knowing this will aid you in getting the exact length of the trouser, skirt, or dress. A skirt above the knees of a model around six feet will fall below your knees if you are shorter. A pair that looks to be calf-length on a model may end up being full length on you for pairing cropped trousers. Be keen when checking clothe hikes.

Watch videos

Is there a TV series with a model putting on the clothes that you admire? Watch the video. You will have an idea of the quality and weight of the fabric when the model walks. The catwalk videos talk more about the cloth used.

Size yourself

Some shopping sites have the “what’s my size” function. The function allows you to enter your weight and height. You will state if you prefer loose or tight clothes. The function then informs you of the right size cloth with dimensions like what you need to buy. You will also get the percentage of the successful sales of this cloth that customers did not return.

Choose classics

The fashion-forward clothes may not have accurate dates when sale shopping. Don’t always go for fashions but rather classics. Tailored trousers, minimal jackets, silk skirts, and light knitwear are perfect. Always remember that items are on sale for a specific reason. In many scenarios, clients bet that certain trends will not be hot when seasons and time change.

Laundry labels

Check for the washing instructions on the website that you are buying the cloth. Some clothes are dry clean alone. You need to pick the washing method you will be able to do.

Selecting the Cloth accessories

How high?

When buying heels online, measure the highest height of your shoes. Don’t buy anything higher than what you use in your daily life. Some heels will look nice on the website, but they won’t be a perfect match for your clothes.

Dimensions

Clothes accessories may seem a sure bet, but it’s always good to check your dimensions. A bag can appear smaller online than in real life. It can also have stiffer leather than you expected. Many cross bags look pretty on screens, but in real life, they might not have space for your purse, phone, and keys.

Bulk buying

Many websites will offer free returns making it cheaper in the end. If you are in the cloth business, you can sign up for notifications to get new releases. Don’t forget to check the websites’ return policy to see if your worries have a solution.

Better returns and deliveries

Some returns and delivery policies are not good at all. Google to see if the branch outlets are near your area for easy returns and deliveries. Google will also provide good websites that have better returns and deliveries.

Conclusion

Online shopping is easy as it will save you travel expenses and time. You only place an order, and you receive your luggage. Be keen not to end up buying cloth that won’t fit you or please you.

As the Olympic Games opens in Tokyo this summer, get a little taste of Japan here in the UK at The Prince Akatoki, the only 5-star Japanese hotel in London. Drawing inspiration from Asia, this is the perfect destination to relax and experience Japanese culture. House of Coco was invited to try the hotel’s Taste of Japan package, designed to create an authentic, memorable stay.

The experience starts as you check-in to one of the luxurious rooms, where you are welcomed with special Japanese inspired comforts including a traditional tea set so you can create your own tea ceremony and Yukata robe laid out on your bed, which add a little Asian fusion to your stay. All of the bedrooms are spacious however we were lucky enough to be upgraded to one of the suites. This zen sanctuary oozes style and elegance, combining neutral tones and minimalist lines, synonymous with Japanese interiors. A clean, fresh, light aesthetic is continued throughout the hotel. Soft white walls and natural wood run throughout the space. As well as a large bedroom and bathroom, the suite includes a kitchen and living space, ideal for relaxing in. The floor to ceiling windows in the bedroom floods the room with natural light. A stunning fusuma panel inspired wall is the focal point of the suite bringing an accent of colour to the room. There are touches of the Far East scattered all around the hotel including the beautiful Ikebana style floral displays.

After checking in we went for a stroll. The hotel is perfectly located for anyone who wants to explore London. Hyde Park is on your doorstep, and it is a short walk to Oxford Street and Bond Street.

After a couple of hours shopping and taking in the sights, we were ready to relax so went back to the hotel for a drink and dinner. It is wonderfully calm in The Prince Akatoki and you instantly feel a million miles away from the bustling London streets.

Superb sake is the name of the game at The Malt Bar and you can’t stay here without sampling the Japanese homegrown sake. Located on the ground floor of the hotel, this sophisticated, grown up bar has a serious selection of rare Japanese whiskies and spirits. Whisky fans can purchase their own premium bottle which will be housed in the bar’s secret vault that only you can access with your own key as and when you fancy a tipple. A full bloom cherry blossom tree has been installed in the corner and is the perfect backdrop to sip Sakura inspired cocktails. We sampled some of the extensive cocktail menu, I opted for a Momo Martini, a blend of Haku vodka, St. Germain, lychee water, peach honey and yuzu.

After drinks we head to TOKii restaurant for some authentic Japanese cuisine. The space is contemporary, dark timber joinery, screen divides and low lighting create an intimate atmosphere. The A La Carte menu has something for everyone with signature dishes, lighter bites and sides as well as a full menu of Nigiri, Sashimi and Sushi Roll options. The dishes served are like works of art and pretty enough to fill any Instagram feed. We opted for a bit of everything and were not disappointed, every dish was delicious. TOKii’s menu is modern, fresh and combines the best of Eastern and Western flavours. Highlights include the lobster croquettes, crisp and delicate with a perfectly balanced ponzu and mango salsa. The crispy pork belly was rich in flavour and the Cornish crab mayonnaise was not only an array of mouth popping tastes, but it was also beautifully presented, so much so I felt bad eating it. Our waitress insisted we try the wagyu beef with spicy ponzu sauce and I am so glad we did, it was ‘melt in your mouth’ tender and bursting with flavour. I would come back here just for the dining experience.

The Japanese pride themselves on service and the staff here are excellent, the attention to detail and level of hospitality was faultless throughout our stay. The hotel offers guests a chance to explore a culture rich in unique experiences set in a luxurious, relaxing space. The Prince Akatoki is a staycation that will whisk you to the other side of the world, without having to travel abroad.

Nightly rates at The Prince Akatoki London start from £229. A Taste of Japan Experience also includes a sushi masterclass and Ikebana flower arranging, which you can take home as a souvenir. To celebrate their post lockdown reopening, The Prince Akatoki is offering Sakura Season experiences, for more information and to book visit theprinceakatokilondon.com

No matter what kind of backyard you have, you’re probably not using the space in full. While homes have some storage built in, gardens are usually wide-open spaces that you can make use of. If you don’t have enough storage space in the house, then even a small yard can be a bonus.

It’s not simply about the aesthetic either. While it’s nice to have some garden furniture, you need space to store objects such as gardening tools and toys.

It’s all about using your imagination or letting us do that for you. We look at six garden storage hacks that you wish you’d known earlier.

Garden Furniture with Storage

If you’ve decided to invest in some garden furniture, look for some that has storage space. Alternatively, you can repurpose old household items and give them a new lease of life.

  • A writing desk

An old writing desk is perfect for storing gloves, small trowels or spades. You can add some plants on top for a small, but pretty tabletop garden.

  • Seating bench

Rather than chairs, you can use small wooden seating benches that have space within. Pop toys out of sight or use for items that need shielding from the elements.

  • Bookcase

Give a tired bookcase a lick of outdoor paint, turn it on its side and pop it outside. Now you have a garden bench with lots of storage below.

Garden Shed/Outhouse

Most people think they need a lot of space for a shed, but there are so many options available now. You can even build one in less than a day if you put your mind to it.

Take some inspiration from these guys and you can make the most of even a small wooden shed. Buy a narrow garden shed and paint it a bright shade and it will jazz up even the smallest space.

Container Covers

If you live somewhere with inclement weather, you can make more of your outdoor space with a container cover. This works best if you already have a shed. It’s an inexpensive way to add extra storage to your home and garden.

It can also give you the protection to create a little office or quiet space underneath it.

Shelving

You might just have a narrow side yard, but it doesn’t mean it has to be neglected. Here’s some ideas for using spaces you may not have thought of.

  • Mount ladder shelving

You can prop or mount ladder shelving to a wall and add plants or store nails, screws or buckets.

  • Log storage

Purchase a log shelving unit to be affixed to the wall to add a rustic feel to your garden. Now the wood looks good and it’s not just lying on the ground.

The Multi-Purpose Crate

Wooden crates are cheap or free and you can find them everywhere. What’s more is that they can be used for so many things.

  • Prop against a wall and add small plants for a wonderful aesthetic.
  • Stick together to make a hiding place for your garden hose
  • Make an outdoor coffee table using some left-over crates, some glue and plywood

Utilise All Space

Don’t forget any wall space, no matter how small.

  • Add hanging baskets

Hanging baskets can be fixed to a wall or fence, or even inside your shed. These are great for toys, plants and even cleaning supplies.

  • A hanging organizer

You use them inside your home, but they are also great in the garden. Store shoes, winter gear and small gardening tools in one.

Once you start looking at your garden with these in mind, you’ll probably come up with other ideas. There’s so much space that you can make use of in a sustainable and inexpensive way. Now you can find a place for everything, from the outdoor cushions to the garden hose. www.livingwateraeration.com/collections/pond-fountains

“Since the beginning I’ve always strived to achieve the impossible,” says Yoanny Garcia when looking back on the early days of launching her eponymous bag brand.

Yoanny Garcia, the brand, is classic, elegant and unique — much like its founder, who has made it her mission to showcase the bold style and vibrant hues of the Dominican Republic on the global fashion stage.

“It is my pride as a Dominican and my mission to represent my country in the fashion world on the global stage,” Yoanny says. “It’s always been integral for me to empower the “Made in D.R” label. It is my vision to develop high-quality handmade products in partnership with local artisans, who have worked in my studio since my day one.

In conversation with Yoanny Garcia, we talk about the inspirations behind her colourful bags, the importance of supporting of local artisans and how her ‘works of art’ can help women feel their most authentic selves wherever they go.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. What inspired you to start your own accessories brand?

I studied Business Administration in the Dominican Republic and then years later I did my master’s degree in International Management in Madrid. Ever since I was a little girl, fashion has always been my biggest passion. I made the decision to start my very own fashion brand when I lived in Madrid. All my friends told me that they admired my style and the bags that I made for myself and that I should start selling them, and so that’s what I did. In 2014 I officially launched my dream project, my Yoanny Garcia brand. My first collection was ‘Let’s Play’ and they were only clutches. It was undoubtedly one of the proudest moments of my life.

If you could describe the Yoanny Garcia aesthetic in three words, what would they be and why?

Classic, elegant and unique.

In what ways does your Dominican culture and heritage influence your designs?

The influence goes beyond my culture. It is my pride as a Dominican and my mission to represent my country in the fashion world on the global stage. It’s always been integral for me to empower the “Made in D.R” label. It is my vision to develop high-quality handmade products in partnership with local artisans, who have worked in my studio since my day one.

For me it goes both ways, I have helped the Dominican artisan community and they have helped make my brand come to life by producing truly amazing products. My country has strong colours, culture, and vibrations that the world needs to see it!

Transparency and sustainability are core to your ethics as a brand. How do you as a brand owner/designer balance profit and purpose?

Yoanny Garcia is a regulated brand, and we strictly follow Dominican regulations by showing everything that happens behind the scenes in the most transparent way.

On the sustainability side, I’m very proud to say that all my pieces are 90% handmade (sometimes even higher) and we are committed to preserving the environment that brings us such amazing raw materials.

Here at Yoanny Garcia, we thrive everyday learning about new materials and techniques so the process of making a bag becomes more and more environmentally-friendly. One of our latest innovations is incorporating natural cork in our bags, and it really looks amazing! We also make donations to different foundations and give back once to our tight-knit Dominican community.

Last year, in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic chaos, we started selling dominoes made with our bag acrylic and all the profit went to Save the Children Foundation directly helping pregnant women and mothers affected by the crisis.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome as an entrepreneur so far?

The biggest challenge I’ve overcome is becoming an entrepreneur. It’s a lot of work and sacrifice and it’s been especially hard with the COVID-19 crisis. Because of the pandemic, everything went south with the fashion industry, sales slowed down, and it became very difficult to maintain my business and protect my partners.

As a businesswoman, I’ve made a lot of sacrifices to stay afloat during this difficult period. It’s been a long and challenging road and it still is to this day. I know it will keep being that way forever, but this business is where I found true happiness, I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.

Tell us about your latest collection. What are the inspirations behind it, and do you have a favourite piece?

My two latest collections are called ‘Regina’ and ‘Abby’ with new modifications and colourways. The launch of ‘Colette’ was also a total hit! I get inspired by everything, a texture, a colour, or a feeling. It could be something I see or a combination of everything and for me that’s the beauty of art.

Seeing the final product with my team after countless trials is the best feeling in the world. For me, it’s impossible to choose a favourite piece, they are like my daughters! But I can say that the YG Ladies favourites are Teresa, Camellia, Abby, and Colette these days. I can’t wait for the launch of our next collection! There are many exciting things coming for the brand.

In your opinion, what sets Yoanny Garcia from other fashion brands in the market today?

Since the beginning I’ve always strived to achieve the impossible. I like to create different and unique pieces that I know my YG Ladies will love. I envision that when they enter any room, they will turn heads just so people can see the piece of art they are wearing. My pieces perfectly complementing their whole outfit and presence. For me, I don’t sell just a fashion piece, I create and sell feelings, exclusivity, and the magic of being your true, authentic self wherever you go, with a piece that represents you and your personality.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself?

Start and don’t ever stop. If it is your dream, go for it because if you don’t do it, no one will do it for you. Be your own boss and stand up for yourself and for what you believe in. Organise yourself and don’t get distracted or discouraged by others. You got this babe.

WWW.YGYOANNYGARCIA.COM

For some people being single, especially when you don’t want to, is a stressful and depressing stage. But for others, this is the perfect phase to feel empowered, free, independent, and confident. It’s the perfect chance to focus on yourself and other people that genuinely value you as much as you do for them. You do what you want without seeking permission from a partner or worrying about what they’re doing.

Instead of thinking about frustration and loneliness, focus on the positive things and experiences you can get from being single. Believe it or not, that phase in your life isn’t something to be sad about. It should be celebrated! Here’s a health and lifestyle guide from us to help you embrace the positives of being single.

Prioritize your health

You don’t have to postpone your regular medical checkups with surprise lunch dates anymore, and that’s great news for your health. Most women, single or not, don’t put enough effort and time into their health, which is alarming. If that’s you, your ‘single’ phase already gives you more time and opportunity to check in with your health and prevent or treat any illness that’s negatively affecting your daily life.

For instance, most women are not aware that loss of bladder control or urinary incontinence can lead to restrictions of physical activity and interactions. In fact, it can even be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. If you’re experiencing urine leaks when you exercise, laugh, or sneeze, it’s best to consult a doctor. They can help assess if you will need to have laser rejuvenation to bring back the normal functions or if simple lifestyle changes will do. Other common health issues in women that you might want to have a checkup for include ovarian cancer, autoimmune diseases, andanxiety.

Practice intentional living

One of the best things about being single is that you don’t necessarily need to compromise on anything or defer to another person. Now, everything’s about you and this is the perfect time to be intentional with your life. Intentional living generally involves creating a life that makes you satisfied, happy, and proud.

Take a look back at the things you want to achieve or do but neglected when you were in the relationship. Are there activities and habits that you want to include in your daily routine? What things can add more meaning and positivity to your life? Jot down everything and start making an action plan. Some people forgot to check in with themselves when they are in a relationship. If this is your case, now’s the time to recreate your life for the better.

Learn to love yourself

Have you’ve been in a situation that you get so caught with your partner and forget to check in with your own needs and wants? Such a bummer, right? But with being single, you can do that. You can fall in love with yourself all over again. It’s a scientific fact that every person has needs, from physical to emotional.

The catch is, it takes effort and intention to attend to those needs. Start loving yourself more by understand and accepting your flaws and faults. And from there, look beyond and see the beauty and positive things with you. Practicing self-love enables you to not just take care of yourself, but also shift your perspective in life.

Fill your life with passion

Being single isn’t about being alone and lonely. It’s actually having more time to do what you love and makes you happy. When you’re staying at home, fill your free time with hobbies that you enjoy, whether it’s writing, reading, painting, or even having a Netflix marathon. This removes feelings of depression and isolation, and fills you with excitement and fun.

But of course, be sure to also have activities that you can do outside your home. Take an early morning walk at the park, go camping or hiking with your friends, visit amusement parks with your family-the sky’s the limit! Immerse yourself in meaningful activities and live a more exciting and happier lifestyle than before.

Always remember that no matter how many people you met, it’s only you, and nothing but you, who could truly make yourself happy. And by accepting this positive stage with a smile, it won’t be too difficult for you to go towards your dreams and value and love yourself first. Plus, you also get to have the opportunity to focus on caring and loving the people who stick with you no matter what, whether they’re family or friends.

It can be difficult to find the right present for everyone in your life, especially the people you care about the most. Sometimes, you really want to find an extra special surprise but have no idea where to get started. No matter what your situation is, everyone has struggled with gift-giving from time to time.

You might think having fewer restrictions on your budget might make shopping easier, but in reality, it just means you have even more choices to be overwhelmed by. Not only that, but you want to make sure you get something worth the money you spend, especially if you plan to splurge. If you need to shop for a high-end gift for someone and don’t know where to get started, read on for three luxurious gift ideas that are guaranteed to make a good impression.

1. Invest in a special timepiece.

When it comes to luxury gifts, an expensive watch or timepiece is a classic choice, especially if you know collectors. Make sure you learn about the watchmaker or brand you’re purchasing from beforehand. There is a great deal of old or well-regarded watchmakers and it’s worth getting to know more before you make a purchase.

Panerai’s history, for example, is fascinating and makes owning one of their pieces even more special. Panerai’s watches pioneered underwater technology and even became indispensable tools for military organizations like the Egyptian Navy and the Royal Italian Navy. Even after Giuseppe Panerai passed away, the brand continued to flourish under Italian naval officer Dino Zei’s leadership.

Models like the Radiomir and the Luminor are staples of the Panerai catalog, though they offer a variety of styles as well. Panerai is a great example of a watchmaker with history and a pedigree of partnerships with luxury brands like Rolex, that produce a reliable product worthy of investing in. With so much competition and such great artistry present in the timepiece industry, there’s no need to settle for less.

2. Celebrate memories with a custom photo gift.

custom photo album is a great way to celebrate some of your best moments together and make sure they’re preserved in an elegant and thoughtful way. A hardcover photo book is another elegant way to display some of your favorite memories.

Photo books have the benefit of appearing high-end and suitable for display on a coffee table or in another area of your home, which allows them to function as both a way to look back at favorite photos and an interesting piece of home décor. Most companies will have a template you can work off, or you can create your own design from scratch if you have the time and creativity.

3. Take a trip together.

There’s nothing that’ll leave an impression quite like making memories together on an incredible vacation. You don’t need to spend a week in Seychelles to have an amazing time, though you certainly can do that if you think your friend will enjoy it.

The most important thing to take into account when planning travel for someone else is what their needs and preferences are. If you don’t know someone well enough, it may not be a good idea to plan a trip for them, and you might be better off describing the idea and providing a gift certificate or going with a different present entirely. For anyone you’re especially close to and that you’d like to spend more time with, a luxurious getaway is one of the best gifts you can receive.

Shopping for presents for your friends and family can be fun, but it can also be difficult to find the right gift sometimes. Take the time to learn about the person you’re shopping for before you shop and figure out what kind of treat they’d enjoy the most. If they don’t wear jewelry, a watch may not be the best gift, and a trip may not be ideal for someone who doesn’t enjoy travel.

Whenever you’re buying something for someone besides yourself, the most important thing is finding something they like, not just finding something you think is a good gift. It’s worth the effort to find the perfect presents for the important people in your life, especially when you’re trying to treat someone to a luxurious surprise.

Traditionally, women have left it to men to worry about all things “car”. But these days, more and more women are choosing to take various levels of car maintenance and repair into their own hands. Even shopping around for cheap car insurance that meets your lifestyle and financial needs is part of the whole car mainktenance package. And when you find a good bargain, you’re really sitting in the driver’s seat.

Even if you don’t feel terribly mechanical or know much about the tech side of car maintenance, there are some invaluable things to learn how to do – like how to check your tire pressure and how to check your oil. You’ll save time, money and frustration by staying on top of these necessary items.

  1. How to Change a Tire. Knowing how to change your own tire puts the power into your hands. Instead of waiting around for AAA or a friend to arrive, being able to locate all that you need (the spare tire, torque wrench, and jack) will not only save you time, it will give you a satisfying feeling to know that you’re not relying on others to get you to where you need to go. We always prefer you to buy quality tires from good sellers like NeoTires.
  2. Signs You Can’t Ignore. Along with the many lights that may appear indiscriminately on the dashboard, there are several symptoms your car can exhibit that should be addressed immediately.
  • A vibrating steering wheel. One or more of the wheels is off balance. It could be snow or ice in the wheel well or something not as easy to rectify. Take it to your mechanic for evaluation.
  • High-pitched squawk from under the hood. This probably means that the serpentine belt is slipping.
  • Your garage smells like an IHop. If there is a definitive maple syrup smell around your car or in the garage, you have a leak in the coolant system.
  1. Popping the Hood. Every car is different, so if you knew how to pop the hood in your last car, don’t assume you know how to do it for your current one. Get out the owner’s manual and find out exactly what’s involved. It can be frustrating if you can’t do it in a hurry when you need to.
  2. Putting Air into Your Tires. Getting into the habit of accessing your tires before each trip out is ideal. When you notice that they are low (and they may get low with cooler temperatures or of course, every day wear and tear) head to the nearest air pump or invest in an air compressor. Having a tire pressure gauge on hand will help you diagnose how low the air is, and if it’s been filled up enough. For the proper tire pressure, look on the inside of the driver’s door.
  3. Refilling Washer Fluid. Washer fluid is terribly underrated. We take for granted that it’s there when we go to use it, but in times of need – like during the winter when the windshield is caked with salt or plastered with dead bugs in the summer – if it’s not available it can be downright dangerous. It limits visibility and can create a hazardous situation. Keep a gallon of fluid on hand and check the level often.
  4. Checking the Oil. It might be intimidating for some people to check the oil in their car. The truth is, it’s a pretty simple procedure. First, grab yourself a paper towel and locate the oil dipstick. Pull out the dipstick and wipe off the oil, then reinsert the dipstick. Take the stick back out to see where the oil level falls. There will be either holes or markings to indicate the proper level. If the oil looks dark and dirty, it’s best to get it changed. If the level doesn’t reach either the hole or markings, add a quart of oil or two (do this when your car is cool and you’ll need a funnel).
  5. Turning on the Hazard Lights. With so many buttons on the dashboard, the hazard light button can be difficult to locate. Find it and commit its location to memory. This is one of the most important things to know to bring attention to your car for various reasons.
  • When pulled over to the side of the road
  • If your vehicle is a hazard to others
  • If traffic is suddenly slowing ahead of you – to alert drivers behind you
  • When being pulled over by a policeman
  1. How to Check the Tire Tread. Take a penny and insert Lincoln’s head facing down. If his head disappears into the ribs (tire groove) than you have sufficient tread, if it doesn’t, it may be time to replace your tires.
  2. When to Refuel. It can be dangerous to run out of gas in an unfamiliar part of town. Try to keep the gas tank half full and know how many miles you have left in the tank when the gas light pops on.
  3. Regularly Check Headlights/Blinkers/Taillights. Enlist a friend to be certain all of your lights are working, so you are safe on the road and won’t be pulled over and given a ticket.

Knowing your vehicle is the first step in driving safely. With a little effort and commitment, it doesn’t take long to feel more confident behind the wheel.

If you are thinking of buying a Daytona Beach condo or planning to live in the city, arguably the best way to do so is to live in a condo as this can take you straight to the heart of the city. But is condo-living in the city the way to go for you? To help you decide, here are some perks and benefits of living in a condominium:

A condo can take you closer to where you need to be

Being centrally-located, condos coexist with office buildings, shopping malls, hotels, and other types of commercial real estate. A house and lot will not be able to offer the same level of access to such establishments as residential zones are typically on a different area, typically outside a township project or managed estate. Because of this, condos offer unparalleled accessibility to where you need to be.

So if you plan to reside in Ortigas Center, one of the key business districts of Metro Manila, then you should consider looking for a condo for rent in Mandaluyong City or Pasig City. This will give you access to offices, malls, and other key establishments in the area – all within walkable distance, if you find a condo inside Ortigas Center itself.

Condos come with amenities that you can enjoy

One of the realities when talking about great cities is that land values can be so high. This is why in order to maximize the potential of land, property developers would want to build high. But as they build, they acknowledge the need for certain facilities and amenities for the condo community that they are planning to establish.

Amenities are something that you can enjoy while you live in a condo. Amenities typically include having a reception area, a swimming pool, perhaps even a function room. Some condos even have their own gym for the residents.

Such amenities are difficult to replicate in a landed property as this will require more space and money. But of course, you will be sharing the condo amenities with other residents so think about this too.

No need to worry about maintenance

In a condo set-up, maintenance of the building is something that you need not think about. This is something that is tasked to the property manager who takes care of the building’s upkeep, which includes the structure, the common areas, and the shared facilities and amenities.

And in terms of maintaining your unit, it would be less of a hassle because you will only be thinking of a smaller space as compared to maintaining a whole house and lot.

Condos have enhanced security

Living in a condo can also make you feel safer as building security is very important for condos. Only unit owners and registered guests are allowed access to the premises, and there are strict security measures in place to be able to promote a sense of security among residents. And above all, this responsibility is under the property manager so you wouldn’t need to worry about it.

On the other hand, if you choose to live on a landed property, your security is more or less your own responsibility and it would be more challenging and more costly for you to do it on your own.

Condo living is the way to go when wanting to reside in the city

If you’re really set on living in the city center, then living in a condo is really recommended for you. Nothing beats the accessibility that a centrally-located condominium can offer. And with the presence of amenities, the level of safety and security, and not having to think about maintenance, condo living is definitely the way to go.

Two new hotels to incorporate into your staycation itinerary this summer are the Graduate Cambridge and The Randolph Hotel. Both open July 1st 2021 and are part of the Graduate Hotels collection whose design is inspired by the unique heritage of university towns and cities. #TeamCoco got a sneak peak of these stylish abodes ahead of their opening next month.

The Graduate, Cambridge

Positioned along the idyllic banks of the River Cam, the Graduate Cambridge is surrounded by the University of Cambridge, within walking distance of several colleges, and a stone’s throw from the city’s best restaurants, bars and shops.

The hotel’s design incorporates the history of the city, making the river the focal point with various accessible views, especially in the lobby bar. Colour palettes, patterns and textures in the public areas reflect the green surroundings of fields and the glorious English countryside. With the punting boat rentals located just outside, the design brings local inspiration into the hotel, with punting boats incorporated in the bookshelves in the lobby, an installation by local craftsmen. The lobby is home to a hanging DNA installation to celebrate Rosalind Franklin, a pioneer in the development of DNA at the University of Cambridge. The guest rooms have an abundance of “Cambridge Blue”, with wallpaper replicating school gates, punting boats on either side of the bed, whimsical lamp shades in the shape of a penny coin and striking wood and leather desks to give a studious library atmosphere. The bathrooms have scenic pastoral wallpaper and mirrors in the shape of the university crest.

Garden House restaurant is nestled on the banks of the River Cam. Adam Wood, formerly of London’s award winning Perilla will lead the kitchen with his focus on open-flame cooking and seasonal East Anglian produce. Garden House will be a relaxed, and seasonable contemporary restaurant in one of Britain’s best loved and historic cities. Graduate Cambridge will comprise Garden House and Garden Bar, as well as a café and flexible social space. The Graduate is the perfect base for anyone looking to explore this vibrant city over the summer.

Nightly rates at Graduate Cambridge in a double room start from £189 inclusive of VAT. For more information please visit https://www.graduatehotels.com/cambridge/

The Randolph, Oxford

Located in the city’s cultural epicentre, The Randolph is situated within the University of Oxford and its iconic colleges, including Trinity and St. John’s. The hotel is on the doorstep of St. Giles Street and its bustling restaurants, bars, as well as the world-famous Radcliffe Camera and Ashmolean Museum. The design of the 151-room hotel takes inspiration from the university’s history, paying homage to its storied innovators and alumni.

Interior design details include bold hues, textural elements inspired by the region’s natural resources and local art which will tell the narratives of Oxford’s past. Previously the Macdonald Randolph Hotel, the property has been renovated and transformed throughout, all the guest rooms, the lobby and social spaces ooze a preppy college vibe. Guests can relax in the intimate snug, a cosy nook between restaurant and private dining with a bohemian spin on a traditional English library space. The Morse Bar is a nod to the iconic 90’s TV detective show that was filmed at the hotel and is the ideal place to kick back with a drink after a day discovering Oxford.

Nightly rates at Randolph Hotel in a double room start from £229 inclusive of VAT. For more information please visit https://www.graduatehotels.com/oxford-uk/

As the summer months approach and you look forward to plenty of sunshine and outdoor fun, it might be easy to forget about frigid winter months that will inevitably descend on your home in a few short months. A person’s home is their castle, and yours is no different. Keeping it in pristine shape is imperative as those four walls protect you and your family from outside elements, including inclement weather.

While there might not be a rush to do any winter preparations right now, keep these five things in mind as fall approaches:

Check heating systems

Too many people wait until the first cold snap of winter to test their heating system. Getting technicians out to fix such systems is expensive, and the waiting period is long as other homeowners face the same challenges. The summer months might be the ideal time to consider installing radiators. Energy-saving radiators like these have been proven to be cost-effective electricity savers and a worthy investment. While buying similar products from Technotherm, Haverland, and Ecostrad iQ might be a significant investment, they reap long-term rewards and add value to your home.

Regardless of your home’s heating source, ensure that it is fully functional as winter approaches. Most specialist companies suggest that you book an annual service check with a heating company. Their technicians inspect the system and do routine, preventive maintenance. Their fee is far less than the bill if the entire heating system fails.

Check roof and gutters

A house’s roof is often overlooked for maintenance because it is hard to access. However, as such a vital component of a home’s structure, prioritize your roof for winter preparations. If you are not able to get up there yourself, contact a local handyman or contractor. The first thing to look for is loose tiles or shingles. They let moisture and cold air into a home, which could cause structural damage.

Water from winter rain and snow needs to run off a home’s roof and into its gutters. Gutters clogged with fall leaves are not fully functional. They may overflow or crack under the pressure of holding stagnant water that does not reach the downpipes. As the weather transitions from fall to winter, use a hose to rinse out your gutters, getting rid of any leaves and twigs trees have shed. Unblock downpipes using a long piece of wire with a hook on its end to pull debris out.

Check for drafts

Your worst enemy during winter is cold drafts entering your home. They make your heating system work harder than necessary to maintain warm temperatures, which becomes a drain on your budget as your electricity bill balance rises. Use the months before winter to detect drafts and implement measures to stop them.

Start with your house’s windows and check that each one seals properly. Replace any cracked glass panes and mechanisms that keep windows closed. Inspect the windows from outside for a tight seal where window frames meet the house’s construction material. Next, ensure that no drafts are entering your home under the door or through cracks in sealing materials. If you happen to find cracks, you can also hire an expert to replace cracked glass. To keep pests and drafts out until the window is replaced, plug the gap with plastic or cardboard. After that, use window tinting and decorative films. It will improve your windows’ look and help you control temperatures. Window film insulates windows that keep winter air out. Your home keeps warm in winter with better insulation. After fixing your window, you are indeed ready for the upcoming season

Check safety measures

If you check the statistics, most house fires occur during the winter months. This happens because people are using more electricity, and this increased demand may affect an already vulnerable wiring system. Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are essential home safety appliances. They can mean the difference between life or death and could save severe structural damage.

Check smoke detector batteries and test their functionality. Ensure your fire extinguisher’s tag’s date has not passed. Using an expired fire extinguisher could render it entirely ineffective during an emergency.

Check fireplaces and chimneys

A cozy fireplace setting is a perfect way to wind down after an icy winter’s day. However, it comes with some risks. If you do not keep your chimney and fireplace well-maintained, carbon monoxide poisoning becomes a distinct likelihood.

Get professional chimney cleaners to ensure that your fireplace and chimney are ready for the winter months. It would be advisable to install carbon monoxide alarms that go off when levels are above average. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer as most people do not realize its presence until it is too late.