Poland - House Of Coco Magazine

Antigua and Barbuda November 9, 2023

Success Worldwide : Weathering The Storm to Come out on Top with RumJava

Mindy and Brian are the founders of RumJava, a brand that has a story to tell. With their love story being the inspiration to launching the business, its hard not to fall in love with them as much as you will with their product.

Here, we spent some time with Brian finding out more about how they overcame adversity, came out of a life threatening hurricane stronger than ever and what their plans are for the future…

Tell us about the journey that lead to you launching Rum Java?
Our story is a bit of a love story. Mindy and I love to travel, share experiences and make memories. Early in our relationship, in 2002, Mindy and I went on holiday together to the island of St John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. As we were falling in love with each other, we also started falling in love with St. John and its Caribbean culture. In 2003, we were engaged on a sailboat just off St. John and in 2004, we were married on St. John’s idyllic Turtle Bay Point.

St. John is a very special place to us. Two thirds of the island is reserved national park and, at that time, there weren’t any cell phone towers which made it a perfect place for us to truly escape from cell phones, laptops, and our very busy corporate lives. It became our special respite where we could completely relax and focus on one another.

Over the next nine years, our love affair with St John continued as we invested in property and found more and more reasons to spend time on the island. Ultimately, we decided to put down roots and we created a boutique gift and gourmet shop that also offered personalized concierge services and our very own Java’Mon coffee.Our goal was to help island visitors create memories and fall in love with St. John just as we had.

What inspired us to create our own coffee company?
During our many visits to St John, Mindy who loves her coffee, could never find a good cup of coffee on the island. To address this challenge, when we opened our store we decided to also open a coffee shop. It was a perfect opportunity to solve Mindy’s problem and we thought if she missed her coffee so much, other people would as well.

When we couldn’t find good beans to use in our coffee shop, we decided to learn how the coffee business works which resulted in us sourcing our own beans, creating our own unique coffee blends and creating our very own Java’Mon Coffee!

Java’Mon Coffee represents the combination of three passions, my love for Reggae music, our love for the Caribbean and Mindy’s love for coffee. On the island, Java’Mon Coffee was a run-away success, immediately.Given our goal to help people curate lifelong memories, we created and named coffee blends after our favourite places on the island. Soon, our coffee could be found in our shop, in hotel rooms, in local grocery stores, in local bars and restaurants and online.

So how did Java’Mon Coffee lead to RumJava?
Ironically, though Mindy has this amazing passion for coffee, I don’t drink coffee. I do however love rum. Mindy loves coffee but doesn’t drink rum.

The quest to find a way to create a cocktail we could actually enjoy together began.

We started with a vanilla rum-based espresso martini we call Mahtini’Mon. We partnered with local St. John bars and restaurants who served our Java’Mon coffee and were all too happy to serve a cocktail recipe we crafted using our Java’Mon Coffee Espresso. We cross promoted our coffee shop with the local bars and restaurants and it was a huge success. As we enjoyed our cocktail however, we noticed how much inconsistency there was in terms of both ingredient supply and in some cases the ability of bars to execute the cocktail.

One day in August 2016, we were sitting on the beach discussing the success of Java’Mon Coffee, the popularity of our cocktail, and the supply chain issues faced on an island such as St. John. We really wanted a consistent, high quality spirit which we could enjoy together and knew if we created one, our partner bars and restaurants would serve it, we could sell it in our store and we could certainly enjoy drinking it ourselves.

We began the process of learning about how to create a spirit.

We knew it had to be rum, we knew it had to have coffee, and we knew, coming from an island that is two-thirds reserved National Park, it had to be as sustainable as possible and made with all-natural ingredients. We also knew it needed to be well balanced. We wanted our rum to taste like rum so I would enjoy drinking it neat or on the rocks, but it also couldn’t be too strong or Mindy wouldn’t enjoy it. We wanted the coffee flavour to come through for Mindy but couldn’t be too strong or I would not enjoy drinking it. We set off to create the perfect balance.

We started the process by filling mason jars with a base rum and infused Java’Mon Coffee beans. We experimented with the number of beans and the length of time they sat in the rum and then added other natural flavours to achieve just the right balance.

We use high quality molasses from sugarcane grown in the Florida Everglades. After fermentation, our rum is distilled twice in a pot still with a copper column. A reclaimed, ionized water is used to lower the proof and we add freshly roasted coffee beans for at least 30 days to extract both colour and flavour. We use a different blend of beans depending on the flavour profile of the rum we are producing. The beans once extracted are dried and used for other things like making dark chocolate bars. We add other natural flavours, filter, hand bottle and hand seal. The end result is an extremely quaffable spirit appealing to a very wide demographic. RumJava is enjoyed neat, on the rocks, shaken and stirred in amazing, unique cocktails.

Another way to look at our quest to create RumJava; we wanted to create a spirit we could enjoy together while extending the range of cocktails on island by creating a one or two ingredient cocktail with a consistent supply chain and the ability to execute consistently. While we helped bars and restaurant introduce Espresso Martini’s, we also made it possible for them to offer a two ingredient Espresso Martini shot at speed bars.

And we crafted the perfect balanced spirit Mindy and I can enjoy together.

Your Instagram account is really fun, how much does social media play a part in your success?
We are so happy you find it fun, rum is fun. We want our RumJava brand to convey a certain level of sophistication yet be playful.

Our social media is purposely managed to reflect who we are, where we are from, and most importantly, the people who enjoy our RumJava. We try to build our content around our customers’ experiences, reflecting the people, places, and feelings our brand emotes.

Social media is a very important component of our strategy not just for followership or eyeballs on the brand but to help us build a culture around our brand. Many of our followers not only follow us on social media but they come see us wherever we are. The relationships, the real friendships we have built while building our brand will be with us forever. We believe it is more important to be authentic and convey the customer experience than to have refined, over-edited pictures of our bottles – its rum, it’s supposed to be fun!

You’ve overcome a lot to be where you are, most recently the devastation that Hurricane Irma caused. Can you tell us more about this and how you overcame it?
It is often said the things that don’t kill you make you stronger. Mindy and I survived 5 ½ hours of 265 mile per hour (mph) winds and it didn’t kill us, it made us stronger. Hurricane Irma really was a life changing event.

In the days leading up to the storm, we kept a close eye on the forecast and up until about 36 hours before Hurricane Irma hit St. John, she had a northerly track with winds of 135 mph. The storm track then dropped in a more westerly direction and we learned she was headed for a direct hit to the Virgin Islands.By this time it was too late to leave island, the ports, both land and sea, were closed; we boarded up our business, collected hurricane supplies and hunkered down for the storm. In the few hours leading up to landfall, the winds quickly accelerated from 135 to over 185 mph and they went up in strength from there.

Mindy and I have matching necklaces engraved with our wedding date and the coordinates of St. John.Just before Irma made landfall we were watching the news while the reporters showed the projected path of the storm.They announced the current location of the storm and it was within less than 10 degrees of the coordinates on our necklaces. Irma was headed for a direct hit on St. John and was forecast to make a turn, heading straight up through Florida where our Fort Lauderdale home would be in the most dangerous part of the storm and more importantly, two of our four daughters were also in the path of the storm.

And then it all started. We lost power, the wind, the rain, the falling trees, the flying debris, the water coming through the lights and electric sockets, the water building on the first floor, then the cracking windows and a piece of the roof breaking away. We created a safe room but couldn’t use it. The pressure was too much, the room was too hot and the unforgettable smell of the shredded trees coming in through the exhaust vents was too much.We moved a sofa near the front door, re-recorded our will, and placed our passports, phones, and some cash in a plastic bag and waited.

When it was all over, it was sheer devastation as far as the eye could see. There was not a leaf left on a tree, no green grass, and hillsides once lined with homes and thick with foliage, were barren. We didn’t have cell service and without communication we didn’t know where the storm was, where it was headed, and we feared it was on a direct path to Florida. Incredibly, we discovered a neighbour’s working cell phone with a random (but rapidly disappearing) signal and were able to get a call out to one of our daughters to let them know we had survived Irma and make sure they had appropriate plans given the severity of the storm.

We then made our way outside and walked two “island miles” over downed powerlines, telephone poles, through the shell-shocked community to our store. We climbed under the telephone pole on our roof and opened our store. Looking around we could see doors in trees, the collapsed structures, the vegetation-less hillsides and the mounds and mounds of debris where structures once stood. It was 24 hours before we saw the first helicopter pass over the island and days before we could find a reliable cell phone signal to communicate. Over the five days following the storm, we kept our store open when curfew allowed – we were all in shock and the store offered a place for people to share their stories, share hugs, let others know they were okay and simply decompress. Because of power issues, we gave away a lot of our inventory that required refrigeration. We assisted tourists in efforts to evacuate the island and finally were evacuated ourselves to Puerto Rico.

While we felt guilty leaving the island, as the next hurricane, Hurricane Jose, turned north and passed St. John, we boarded a boat bound through rough seas to Puerto Rico. The people of Puerto Rico were amazing. They rescued countless people, delivered much needed supplies, and lent a shoulder to cry on for so very many people. We left Puerto Rico three days later and with an overnight stay in Antigua, we made our way back to Florida safely but emotionally drained and sorely bruised from the experience.

Though Florida was spared from the same kind of storm we saw in the US Virgin Islands, tornadoes from the storm damaged a ceiling and five walls in our home in Fort Lauderdale – they had to be gutted. Within days of returning home Mindy’s Aunt passed away and, shortly thereafter, Hurricane Maria destroyed most of what the previous storms had not in the Atlantic/Caribbean basin, including Puerto Rico.

It was a tough month, we were shattered and felt helpless as it related to the condition of our beloved island. We lost our business and our home on St. John, and there was little we could do to help repair the island and those in need.

We set out to find a way to heal and raise money for Hurricane relief.

We decided to create a blend of coffee and named it “Love City Strong” in honor of St. John (known as “Love City”).In short order, we sold 600 pounds of Love City Strong online with all proceeds sent back to St. John through two foundations established to provide disaster recovery and hurricane relief.

As part of our plan for RumJava, we wanted to get to the UK to participate in UK RumFest and see if the market would respond positively to our range of rums. We had our stand booked before Hurricane Irma and were well past the point of cancelling our participation in the event. Mindy suggested she would support the event, but I had to figure out how to make it happen, she was simply spent. It felt like this event was the only thing we had left, the only thing connecting us to our beloved St. John. We were preparing for a Caribbean festival in the UK and we needed it to heal, we needed it to help us move on, and we needed to see if anyone in the UK loved our rum as we did. We airfreighted our rum to the UK via Rotterdam, flew to London, and hosted a launch party at the rooftop Bar Elba with Caribbean Carnival Dancers and about 75 guests. It was just what we needed. Given supply chain challenges, our rum arrived at the venue an hour before the party started and had to be carried up five flights of stairs. We were so grateful for the opportunity to be there, we picked up the rum and started up the stairs! We brought our own brand of Caribbean Culture, Rum, and Coffee to London and had an amazing kickoff event thanks to the team at Bar Elba.

We are not afraid of hard work and Hurricane Irma made us realize how strong we truly are.

We had airfreighted our rum as well as marketing banners, merchandise and everything we could muster to pull together a stand at UK RumFest to our hotel.We carried rum, banners, coffee, chocolate, t-shirts etc. back and forth from our hotel to the RumFest location. We were the first ones to arrive onsite and the last to leave. Throughout the UK RumFest weekend, we poured everything we had into interacting with consumers, telling our story, and introducing them to our version of a Virgin Islands party in the UK. As it turned out, the UK loved us as much as we loved them. We made some lifelong friends and became the highest selling brand in the history of UK RumFest (a record we continue to hold.)

When we launched RumJava in April 2017 at Miami RumFest, we won three gold medals and became the highest selling rum in the history of Miami RumFest. In July 2017, we had our first distribution order which went to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Within two months, our entire world came crashing down. Pressing on and having the experience we did at UK RumFest not only gave us confidence and energy related to the UK Market, it gave us the confidence and energy to continue the pursue our dream.

RumJava is now in 8 states within the U.S., the Virgin Islands, and broadly across the UK. We are the highest selling rum in the history of the Miami RumFest, UK RumFest, and Poland’s Rum Love Festival by an order of magnitude.

Hurricane Irma changed our lives. She reminded us how important we are to each other, how important our family, friends, and pets are, how important our health is, how big our responsibility is to our environment and future generations, and how to crystalize our thoughts, muster all our energy to press on, and fight for our dreams together. She made us more appreciative and more resilient because she showed us how easily she could take it all away.The UK RumFest will always have a special place in our hearts and minds. The friendships, the mentorship from people like Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell, the guidance, the well wishes, and the cultural revolution that has joined RumJava has given us the confidence and energy to pursue this passion; we will be forever grateful.

Who is behind the company and what roles do you all play?
Mindy and I (Brian) are RumJava’s co-founders. While we make all our investment and implementation decisions together, I am the company’s Chief Executive Officer and focused on production, operations, and market strategy. I also spend a lot of time in market working with bars, restaurants, and retailers to help position RumJava, create cocktails, menus and conduct training. Mindy is our Chief Creative Officer and is focused on design, styling, and brand imagery. Niki and Dustin Skartved lead our distillation, Nick Krasniqi is our UK market manager and Corey Siegel is our graphic designer. Mindy and I collaborate and make all decisions together from brand to flavour profile, design, aesthetic, market strategy, and investments.

What sets Rum Java apart from other rum brands on the market?
RumJava Artisan Crafted Rums are premium, coffee infused, and 100% all-natural. We have an authentic story and created a very quaffable and versatile spirit unlike anything on the market. Consumers and experts alike respect our authenticity, our packaging, and the quality and taste of our rum.

RumJava is sophisticated yet playful. And we passionately celebrate the experience of Caribbean culture, rum and coffee in every sip.

Talk us through a day in your life?
Hold hands, watch the sunrise (preferably while walking the dogs), go to the gym and at least get in some cardio and stretching and/or some hot yoga. The work day usually starts with a review of social media, primarily Instagram. We typically look at social media in the first hour of the day and this continues throughout the day, periodically, until we go to sleep. Mornings are then spent reviewing and responding to email, mostly those coming in late night from a different time zone, then it’s off into the market at around 10am. When in the UK, Nick and I make full use of the tube but walk at least 12 miles a day when we are in market. We meet with bars, restaurants, and retail partners, working to position RumJava with new clients. Typically, we are interested in how business and consumer culture meet. We spend time determining if and how RumJava fits in the environment. We also support clients who have already made a commitment to RumJava by working on drinks, menus and business metrics while conducting consumer tastings to ensure the brand is activated properly and will be successful for everyone. There are a lot of cocktails to try, photos to take and little time to eat. We are back in the hotel at the end of our day in market, most nights after 10 or 11 in the evening, and then it’s time to catch up on email related to the operation of the business…then we get ready to start all over in the morning.

What advice would you offer for anyone that is considering launching a business in your arena?
It is a tough business, do your research, and make sure you understand why you want to be in the business, your tolerance for risk, and how your product will get in the hands of the consumers. Is there something innovative about your idea or different than potential competitors? If you choose to go forward and don’t have any experience in the industry (like us), ask a lot of questions, be humble, listen to everyone wiling to give you advice but, in the end, follow sound business principles and listen to your gut.

The last piece of advice we would offer is that it is hard work and the real secret to success is a willingness to work hard.It all looks glamourous and we love every minute but it’s hard work and if you aren’t prepared, physically and mentally, it will be difficult to be successful and to develop a real understanding of the business, your consumer, and the industry.

Outside of work, what do you do for fun?
We love to travel and have been around the world three times. We enjoy fitness, especially hot yoga, we love to clear our minds, walk our dogs, play backgammon, and do a little limin’ anywhere there is a beach, especially on St. John or Fort Lauderdale Beach. We also enjoy getting out on the water in the US and British Virgin Islands. There is always time for a spin on the Ducati or a Chelsea Football match.

What does 2020 look like for you?
2020 is an extremely exciting year for RumJava! We have learned a great deal in the past 24 months, and you will see us very focused in 2020. We are currently sold broadly across the UK, in 8 states within the US, and the Virgin Islands. While we will continue to look opportunistically for great partners in Europe, the US, and Asia, we will be strategically focused on activation in three key markets; the UK, Florida, and the Virgin Islands. We will continue to build on relationships we have built with UK RumFest, Coca-Cola, our on and off-trade partners and wholesalers while bringing Caribbean Culture, Rum, and Coffee to some exciting new activations in London for 2020.

What does self care mean to you?
For us, self-care is about being thankful and nurturing what is most important to us – our four daughters, two dogs, and each other. It all has to start with how we take care of ourselves, what we put in our bodies, how we stay fit physically and mentally. Cutting carbs, hitting the gym at least 6 days a week, hot yoga, walking the dogs, watching the sunrise every morning we are home, and while difficult, having the courage to say no are all important to keeping us centered and the energy positive so we prepared to support each other, our family, and our businesses. We have learned the hard way not to take anything for granted and we hold each other accountable for self-care.

For our UK readers, where can they get their hands on a bottle of Rum Java?
We are in relatively broad distribution in the UK. You can find RumJava in retail both online and in some of the finest shops from Edinburgh to Cornwall as well as on-trade throughout the country. If you are shopping for a bottle online or in a shop, you can pick up RumJava at Harvey Nichols, Whisky Exchange, Master of Malt, 23 Wine & Whisky, Twisted Cellar, Gerry’s Soho, Great Western Wine in Bath, Harper Wells in Norwich, Virgin Wines, Slurp Wine in Banbury, and Amazon to mention a few outlets carrying RumJava.

Where can people find out more?
Come see and follow us at www.rumjava.com, on Instagram @Rum_Java, on Twitter @rumjava, on Facebook @rumjava on Channel 4 Sunday Brunch from time to time and on the pages of some of your favourite online and print media such as The House of Coco.

Lifestyle November 9, 2023

Domestic Detection – Telltale Signs You Have A Gas Leak

Even small undetected gas can increase the size of your energy bill. Worse yet, they can negatively affect the air quality in your home. Breathing in natural gas can lead to harmful consequences to your health. Lastly, natural gas is highly flammable and it can lead to dangerous explosions in the presence of even a small spark or flame. To best ensure your safety you should familiarize yourself with some of the most common ways that you can detect a gas leak and what to do if you suspect you have one.

What To Do if You Suspect You Have a Gas Leak?

Often it is better to err on the side of caution and call a professional plumber immediately, if you suspect you have a gas leak, and they can perform a water or gas leak detection. If you suspect a gas leak, leave the area (evacuating the house) and avoid operating electrical equipment or anything with an open flame in the vicinity.

Causes of a Gas Leak

Gas leaks have a variety of causes, which include: a damaged gas pipe, an underground gas line that has ruptured, or due to faulty and poorly fitted appliances or pipes. Since there are many different things that can cause a leak, it can be difficult to detect them yourself, especially without the right tools and experience. It is best to have a have your appliances and gas lines serviced by professionals.

Telltale Signs That You Have a Leak

Physical Symptoms

A reduction in the amount of oxygen in the air can lead to physical symptoms, which include: breathing difficulties, dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Pets will likely experience similar symptoms, so be aware of any changes in a pet’s behaviour.

Smell of Gas or Rotten Eggs

Gases such as propane have an additive known as Ethyl Mercaptan because in its natural state these gases have no colour or oder. Once Ethyl Mercaptan has been added to the gas it strongly smells like rotten eggs or sulfur. If you notice this distinct smell that persists in your home, then you should call for gas line repair immediately.

High Gas Bills

Since gas may be escaping from gas lines or appliances into your home or outside, you might be racking up a higher than normal gas bill. You can also save your hundreds of pounds with usave if you are paying too much for your gas and electricity bills.

Abnormal Behaviour of Gas Appliances

A gas leak can prevent gas appliances from functioning properly. For example a cooktop won’t light or the heating is not working.

Appliances Have a Discoloured Flame

If the flame from your appliances is an orange or yellow colour, rather than a strong blue colour, then your appliances may be leaking gas. A pilot light which keeps going out might also be an indication of a leak.

Dead Plants

Natural gas in large quantities can cause grass or shrubs to turn brown. Plants dying might be an indication that an underground gas line has ruptured. Houseplants that wither and die may be an indication of an indoor gas leak.

Hissing Sound

You may be able to hear gas escaping from gas lines. This usually takes the form of a hissing sound.In fact, if you hear hissing, it usually indicates a serious leak in the line and getting it professionally repaired is even more important.

In addition to the potential cost of a larger energy bill, there are potentially serious physical symptoms associated with gas leaks. Several deaths and hundreds of hospitalizations per year can be attributed to gas leaks. With this in mind, it is probably a good idea to take your safety seriously and learn the telltale signs of a gas leak’s presence. If you suspect you have found a gas leak, evacuate the household and call a professional to repair your gas line.

Adventures November 9, 2023

How Trekking Poles Make Your Hike Easier And Fast

Going hiking with friends or family is one of the most beautiful activities that a human being can have. However, it is necessary to have the proper equipment to avoid accidents and to protect us from any difficult terrain. One of the most important accessories while hiking is the trekking poles. Trekking poles are standard equipment for many hikers, backpackers and people who like to explore nature. You might be asking yourself how important are they to hike. Trekking poles improve your stability and at the same time also provide support in all types of terrain. Some people also use them as tracking poles, they are left in specific places to find their way back.

Trekking Poles Increase Balance And Stability

But, what are the benefits of using trekking poles? One of the benefits for which people use a trekking pole nowadays is that it increases balance and stability. Many people started using them to avoid an accident in difficult terrains. When using trekking poles, you would have 4 contact points on the ground. These are the two poles plus your two feet and with this, you would have a much better balance and greater stability when walking. If you love rough terrain, steep ascents or descents, trekking poles are the best option for you which can also be used in water crossings and while walking on loose rocks and snow.

Protect Your Joints By Using Trekking Poles

If we talk about medical conditions, trekking poles are also used to reduce fatigue and reduce the impact of joints. No matter, how old you are or the physical condition you have, it is always recommended that you use these poles when walking, Hiking time can be long and since you will be walking on slopes, wet rocks, mud, snow, and all types of terrains, hiking poles would allow you to use the upper part of your body to help you overcome obstacles. If you are descending a slope, you can lean on the trekking poles to counteract the strength of your legs, because you will be tired of so much walking. One of the advantages of trekking poles is that they are multifunctional.

Regardless of the situation, these poles can be used for several things and not only to support you when walking. They can be used as a support to repair your broken tent if in any case this is damaged. It can also immobilize a broken limb or protect the injuries of any person. This would be in emergency cases. Many times when we are walking in the snow we can´t see how deep it is, so having a trekking pole would help us check the stability or depth of the snow.

There Are Trekking Poles For Different Needs

Every time you buy a trekking pole for hiking, there are very important things to check. For example, we know that each hiking experience is different and we all have different needs. You should look for the right trekking pole that best fits your needs. You must ensure that this pole is easy to use, easy to extend, and easy to transport. Transportability is important. Many trekking poles are telescopic, this makes storage and transport much easier without causing any problems when we talk. If we talk about weight, you can find trekking poles that are made of aluminum which are lighter or either ultralight carbon. Of course, keep in mind that the lighter the trekking pole is, the most expensive it is.

Make Sure You Buy Durable Trekking Poles

Durability and safety are very important in these cases too. You must make sure that these poles are long-lasting according to the activity you do or the times you go hiking. Comfort is also important. The handles of these poles can be rubber or plastic and they should have wrist straps to be able to grab them in a better way. If you love to go hiking with friends or family, then you must look for affordable, good quality, and durable trekking poles to have a great experience exploring nature.

These trekking poles can be found in Premier Outdoor Gear. We are a specialized store in all kinds of articles for outdoor activities. No matter if you are camping or because you are hiking, we have everything you need. We have the best brands and the best prices in the area. Do not hesitate, call us at (800) 764-0315 to have the information about our products and speak to our specialists. You can also order online And thus become one of our happy customers who have obtained high-quality products in our store. Do not hesitate to get the best trekking poles for hiking us, have fun with your friends, and enjoy nature. Call us now.

Australia November 9, 2023

Top five destinations for a hair transplant

If you’ve ever thought about getting a hair transplant, it’s likely you’ve looked at getting the procedure done in the UK. However, like most people, you’ve probably found that British hair transplant clinics are incredibly expensive. But there’s no need to panic as the work could still be affordable. This is because it’s far cheaper to get a hair transplant abroad, and there’s no need to worry about sacrificing quality or safety, either. With this in mind, here are the five top global destinations you can visit for a hair transplant.

#1 Turkey

Turkey is an incredibly popular destination with Brits who decide to head abroad for a hair transplant. In fact, figures from Turkey’s Foreign Economic Relations Board suggest that the country’s hair transplant industry was worth more than US$1 billion last year.

Brits love heading to Turkey for their hair transplants because the procedure is significantly cheaper. In fact, the latest figures from GetHair claim that it’s around 80% cheaper to get a hair transplant in Turkey than in the UK. Due to this, it’s unsurprising that 68% of the world’s hair transplant procedures are performed in the country. Actually, the procedures are so popular that the country is informally known as the ‘headquarters of hair transplants in the world’.

#2 South Korea

If you don’t mind venturing a little further afield, South Korea is also a great destination to visit for your procedure.

The country is actually known as ‘the world’s plastic-surgery capital’ because Seoul alone has more than 600 clinics – and more than 50,000 foreign patients received plastic surgery in the country in 2017 alone, according to The Korea Herald.

Although figures suggest that getting a hair transplant in South Korea is slightly more expensive than in Turkey, the procedure still costs less than half of what it would cost in the UK.

However, it’s important to know that most surgeons in South Korea don’t speak English. As a result, you may need to pay to have an interpreter accompany you for your procedure.

#3 Thailand

Thailand’s a destination that’s particularly popular with Australian, American and Canadian visitors because it’s significantly cheaper to get a hair transplant here than it is in these countries. However, it’s not much cheaper to get a transplant in Thailand than it is in the UK.

But, one of the main advantages of visiting Thailand for a hair transplant is that the country is a hub of innovation and technology. As a result, it’s a location where the surgeons are highly experienced and practice new techniques regularly.

As an added bonus, it’s also a fantastic place for a holiday, so you can stay for a few days after your surgery and enjoy the stunning views.

#4 Poland

If you’d rather stay in Europe than travel all the way to Asia, Poland is a great location for a hair transplant. Plus, its close proximity to the UK means it’s really easy to get cheap flights, which also brings the overall cost of the procedure down. In fact, due to the cheap flights and the general price policy in the country, it’s actually cheaper to get a hair transplant in Poland than it is in Turkey.

Like Thailand, Poland is also a country that’s renowned for its innovative techniques. In fact, many clinics in the country use the innovative ARTAS robot to complete FUE hair transplants. These machines are so advanced that they’re even more accurate than skilled surgeons. The machines have precision-focused technology that helps them select only the highest-quality hair follicles to replenish thinning scalps. By helping the surgeon, they also make the procedure quicker and less painful.

#5 Lithuania

Finally, Lithuania takes fifth position on our list. As a real up-and-coming destination, Lithuania flies a little under the radar with potential hair transplant patients. However, its facilities are well worth investigating because they achieve excellent results and employ many of the latest technologies.

In addition to this, hair transplant prices in Lithuania are among the lowest in Europe. Plus, the cost of living over in Lithuania is also low, meaning it’s cheap to enjoy your break while you’re out there, too. Similar to this, like with Poland, the country’s close proximity to the UK also means it’s easy to get cheap flights. This brings down the cost of the operation even further.

If you choose one of these five destinations for your hair transplant, you’re likely to receive a quality service at an affordable price. However, before you commit to a clinic in another country, you should do your research – sadly, black-market operators do try to lure in customers. So, before you book your appointment, make sure you inspect the qualifications of the surgeons they use and check their independent reviews. This way, you can rest assured you’ve chosen a provider you can trust.

Czech Republic November 9, 2023

5 Ideal destinations for cheap city breaks

With stressful jobs and decreasing flight prices, cheap city breaks have never been so popular. Budget airlines have really revolutionised the way we think about holidays. For most of the public, holidays of yesteryear would be booked 6+ months in advance, making it a huge deal to plan and prepare for.

Nowadays, we have a whole bunch of budget airlines offering incredibly cheap flights – flights that surely don’t even cover the cost of petrol. Short, regular city breaks are now making more sense than a once-in-a-year £2,000 holiday.

In the spirit of cheap city breaks, this article will cover some of the best destinations, some classics and some that you may not have considered.

Prague

Prague is an incredible place. Tourism is rising each year in Prague, but it still remains cheap compared to other central European cities (it’s not in Eastern Europe like many believe).

A week in Prague is an incredible experience to be fully submerged in a relentless amount of beauty, from Romanesque chapels to Baroque palaces and Gothic cathedrals.

Being in the centre of Europe, it’s very easy (and cheap) to get to. You’re never more than a couple of hours away from it wherever you are in Europe. While the city is up and coming, the cost of living remains low still, so hotels and eating out is generally pretty cheap, although that’s always relative to where you’re coming from. As evident on the cheap holidays on Teletext, a Bed & Breakfast can set you back around £60 per night.

Prague has just about everything, from the Museum of Communism to a buzzing nightlife. It’s a place of culture, mainly, but it still manages to have a vibrant atmosphere along with some great bars. If you’ve never been, it’s definitely a must-see.

Budapest

A little further South East is Budapest, the capital city of Hungary. This is another very highly rated European city break destination, being named the ‘Paris of the East’. This mainly alludes to the illuminated bridges running through Danube, a very romantic setting.

Budapest is a relatively large city compared to others on this list. This means it may be slightly more difficult to see a lot of purely on foot, but equally there’s more to discover. It’s a great winter break too, as the lake becomes an ice rink by Heroes’ Square, which was created in 1896 to celebrate Hungary’s millennium. It’s great in the summer too, as temperatures soar to 30 degrees celsius.

In Budapest, it’s seen as tradition to take a dip in mineral waters, with over 100 geothermal springs dotted around the city. Budapest is a cheap destination, but like Prague, you wouldn’t think it when you see its well-maintained architecture.

Marrakech

If you’re looking to indulge in a less Western culture then Marrakech is a great choice. This is the fourth largest city in Morocco, and is home to a bunch of unbelievable Arabic architecture, along with some incredible marketplaces (souks) and traditional hammam spas.

A truly unique opportunity in Marrakech is to visit the Old Town, which has an abundance of craft traders, from clothes to pastry. If you’re into fashion, a short visit to YSL Museum is a great experience; it houses over 5,000 clothing items dedicated to the fashion designer.

Prices are cheap for luxury, 4 and 5 star hotels. You’re looking at £100 per night for a beautifully situated hotel with incredible views and service.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a great place for foodies. With a handful of Michelin-star restaurants it has established a stellar culinary reputation. It’s not bad for beer lovers too, with many restaurant beers being priced under £2.

Lisbon is actually one of the oldest cities in the world. In fact, it predates Rome, Paris and London by quite a few centuries. This has, of course, resulted in an array of culture and architecture to explore for those with an appetite for history.

While it can be visited in winter, Portugal tends to be more of a summer break, with some incredible weather, a laid back evening-centric atmosphere along with some great beaches. Prices are reasonable too; around £100 per night landing you a nicely situated hotel with good service.

Krakow

Again, culture and history is rife in Krakow. This Polish city dates back to the 10th century, and, despite being heavily involved in WWII, it’s an impressively well-preserved city. With narrow streets interweaving around an 800-year old Market Square, there’s a uniquely cosy atmosphere too.

Krakow isn’t just architecture though, there’s a unique buzz going on. It’s a university city, so evening bars are usually vibrant and brings a youthful aspect to the city. In the winter, there’s an incredible Christmas fair, and in the summer, temperatures get surprisingly hot.

Krakow is a cheap city with a low cost of living. A bit like Prague, there’s a good blend of old and new in what is a seemingly compact city.

Beauty November 9, 2023

How to get the perfect non-toxic at home mani/pedi

Whether you’re trying to save some money or simply too busy for the salon, we here at House of Coco love an at-home mani/pedi. We check in with Carla Opoku, founder of vegan nail brand, Cienna Rose to hear her 8 easy steps to ensure salon-quality without all those nasty toxins.

Step 1: Remove any current nail polish – nails need to be completely clean. Use an acetone free nail polish or top tip, you can also use witch hazel! Wash hands to get rid of any excess product – I like to soak hands in warm water first to help soften the cuticles.

Step 2: Clip, file and buff nails. Only file in one direction – sawing them aggressively back and forth leaves nails with a frayed edge rather than a nice clean, tidy finish. More rounded nails are the go to shape this season which is great news as it’s a shape that works well for most hands.

Step 3: It’s vital to start with a good base so that your nails are hydrated to prevent breakage and cracking. Massage a cuticle exfoliator like the Cienna Rose Brighten Up Gentle Cuticle Scrub (£10) onto your cuticles to gently push it away from your nail bed and take off the dead skin cells safely. Your cuticles protect your nails from bacteria and keep them soft so avoid cutting them. We use Glycerin, Caffeine, AHA’s and Vitamins in our gentle but effective formula.

Step 4: Wash and moisturise hands. Take the opportunity to give yourself a mini hand massage – just because you’re not at a spa doesn’t mean you can’t relax. Smear on your favourite hand cream and to finish, give each nail a swipe of nail polish remover.

Step 5: Next up, if you are pampering nails before bedtime, I’d suggest using the Cienna Rose Overnight Success Revival Mask (£10). I like to use it twice a week – it blends Pro Vitamin B5 and Star Seaweed that helps revitalise, nourish and repair dry and brittle nails while you sleep.

Step 6: ALWAYS use a base coat. Not only will a base coat protect and strengthen your nails, it will also encourage health nail growth and help your manicure last longer. Use the Cienna Rose Inner Strength Hardener Treatment (£10.50)and wait two minutes before applying any colour. Our independent study revealed that 100% of people who used the product found that their nails were harder and stronger after just two weeks of use.

Step 7: Now the fun part! The colour! To achieve the perfect coverage, apply three strokes of colour to each nail – one down the centre and one either side. Any more will lead to an uneven application that will be prone to chipping. Do a second coat after two minutes if required. We have over 30 shades from classic nudes and reds to vibrant corals, hot pinks, metallics and pretty pastels.

Step 8: Don’t skip the topcoat. This is a necessary part of your mani as it seals your colour, prevents pesky chips and gives your colour a beautiful super glossy finish. I recommend the Cienna Rose Plump It Up High Shine Gel Effect Top Coat (£10.50). It’s enriched with Pro Vitamin B5, Vitamin E and Lemongrass Oil to give the glossiest finish. Reapply every 2-3 days to keep your mani looking fresh and shiny.

For more info about the products and brand behind this great advice, check out: ciennarose.com.

Brazil November 9, 2023

Top Destinations with Stunning Crystal-Clear Waters

It’s vacation time, and there’s nothing as relaxing as enjoying a nice cold drink looking out into the clear water. It is not quite possible to explain the pleasure of a day well spent at the beach. Whether it is lying on the sand, building sand castles, or taking a dip in the water, there is just so much to do during a holiday trip.

The question then arises, where you can find the ultimate relaxation for your next holiday destination. Don’t fret; we will share with you the top destinations with stunning crystal Clear Waters, which you must put on your bucket list, for places to visit.

Italy, Lampedusa

Lampedusa is in the Mediterranean Sea and is part of the Pelagie islands. Lampedusa has a thriving fishing economy, but it also has one of the most amazing white sandy beaches. The water is crystal clear and has become a major attraction for tourists from all over the world.

China, Jiuzhaigou Valley,

Looking at pictures of Jiuzhaigou Valley in China will give you the feeling that an artist became too enthusiastic with Photoshop. The water is so clear that you can see right to the bottom. The Valley is a great hiking site, and the burst of color is something to experience. There is a national park within the Valley, and you will get to experience terrace Lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Poland, Valley of the Five Lakes

You will have so much choice of things to do at the Valley of the Five Lakes. Located in the Tatra Mountains in Poland, you have crystal Clear Lakes. During summer, it is a sight to behold. In winter the Lakes freeze but, they remain as clear as they are during summer. Ice skating or walking across the frozen lake will give you the feeling that you are walking on air.

Philippines, Boracay

Boracay is a small island in the Philippines that has become a great tourist attraction. The initial inhabitants were goat and rice farmers; what a pleasure it must have been taking the goats out to pasture while surrounded by all the beautiful scenery.

The water surrounding the island is so clear, and there are many activities you can engage in during your vacation.

New Zealand, Blue Lake

If you take an aerial shot of the Blue Lake in New Zealand, you will capture the entire bed due to how clear the water is. If you capture a side-shot of someone sitting in a boat in the middle of the Lake, you would think that it is suspended in the air.

The Blue Lake, which is in Nelson Lakes National Park, is sacred to the Maori, and you are not allowed to swim in it. The water is so pure that tests indicate that it is the same as distilled water.

Greece, Lefkada

If you’re looking for tranquillity and a great spot for kite surfing or other water sports, make it a point to visit the Ionian Sea in Lefkada Greece. You get crystal clear turquoise water and sandy beaches in places like Porto Katsiki beach, among others.

To access the Porto Katsiki beach, you can use the taxi boats or the winding staircase on the cliff.

Brazil, Rio De Prata

If you enjoy a spot of snorkeling and happen to find yourself in Brazil, make sure you visit Rio de Prata. Bring a pair of hiking boots so that you can tour the rainforest. Swimwear is also mandatory for this trip because you will get a chance to swim in the crystal clear waters. Pack a good camera because you will get to see South American fish like pacú and Dourado.

Canada, Alberta, Moraine Lake

If you know anything about Canadian currency, then you know that the Canadian $20 bill has a portrait of Moraine Lake. The lake is in the Canadian Rockies, and the lake gets its water from the glacier, and is an impossible to imagine blue color.

Bring a kayak or canoe along for a scenic tour of the Lake; you will feel like you’re gliding over glass. Visit dream-guides for great selection of cool kayaks

Italy, Laghi de Fusine

The Laghi de Fusine is a glacial Lake that has crystal clear water. You may not want to take a dip here because the water gets very cold; although we can bet on a dare from your friends, you might decide to try. You can, however, enjoy a scenic tour of the Lake while taking plenty of pictures.

Croatia, Plitvice Lakes

The beauty of the area is breathtaking. Tourists are welcome to visit at any time of the year. Seeing the Lakes during the different seasons is a sight to behold. The color burst from the changing leaves, and the blooming flowers will provide great material for your photography endeavors. One thing that stands out though, whatever the season, the water remains blue and crystal clear.

Maldives

The Maldives is another popular holiday destination. Located in the Indian Ocean, you have 1190 Islands to explore. You get white sandy beaches and crystal clear water. There is so much to do with regards to water activities, and the marine life is something to check out.

Bahamas, Grand Exuma

There is no list of top destinations that would be complete without a mention of the Bahamas. It features some of the best sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. Imagine how lucky the inhabitants of these places are, waking up to scenic views, many people only see in pictures.

Now here is one thing you’ll find interesting; it is not uncommon to find wild pigs swimming in the Grand Exuma; a chance to cool off perhaps? If you’re feeling adventurous, by all means, jump into the water and join the pigs.

Final Thoughts

We have shared with you the top 10 destinations with crystal clear waters. You will never run short of fabulous places to visit in your lifetime. Remember to carry many bathing suits, plenty of sunscreen, hats, and get ready to spoil yourself thoroughly.

Lifestyle November 9, 2023

10 facts about weddings in the USA

Wedding celebrations in different parts of the world often have significant differences. They lie in the characteristics of the organization, the specifics of traditions, and the amount of time required to register a marriage. But one thing remains unchanged in all countries – people attach great importance to this exciting event. Young people and their parents spare no effort and resources to make this important event truly unforgettable. Residents of the United States are especially serious about preparing a wedding. Now we will try to tell you how they arrange weddings in this country.

Engagement and wedding preparations in America

When a young man decides to make a marriage proposal, he carefully plans this moment. He chooses a suitable place and time, buys an engagement ring and a large bouquet. And since “diamonds are girls’ best friends,” a pretty diamond is a must for a wedding ring. Since the engagement is taken very seriously in America, preparations for a wedding begin only after the betrothal and take mainly about one to two years. But because the wedding business is well developed in America, newlyweds, as a rule, do not do this on their own. All pre-wedding chores are passed over to the employees of various agencies and bureaus that provide wedding organization services.

Say yes to the dress

For a “proper” wedding in America, it is advised to start looking for a dress no later than 10 months before the ceremony. To be honest, the concept is a bit complicated – during this time, you can not only rethink the style of the dress but also the desire to get married in general. Although Americans start to search for a dress for the bride at least a year before the wedding, the groom’s suit can be purchased in a cheap store at a low price.

The dress budget

A normal budget for the wedding dress in Washington starts at $1,500. There is no limit, but according to statistics, on average, in the American capital, they spend no more than $2,000 on a dress. It should be remembered that choosing a dress is only the beginning. Then they order it and file the dress (two fittings). The closer to the wedding, the more expensive this service will be.

Location search

Of course, no dress should be chosen without knowing the venue of the wedding itself. And this is another reason why Americans are planning the “right” wedding in advance because the ideal location can be booked for months or even years in advance.

One-click gift

Wedding invitations could be now sent by mail. It is common now for many couples to choose an email with a link to a website where guests can agree or refuse to come to the wedding. Or on a paper invitation, there may be a website address where you can answer and, most importantly, look at the list of desired gifts with a direct link to the websites where you can order them. This shouldn’t come as a surprise since today, you can even mail order brides via the Internet.

Nothing personal, just business

Another option is to add money to the honeymoon fund – as much as you like. By the way, on some wedding sites, there may be two options: a cash deposit in dollars and a gift in cryptocurrency (bitcoins and others).

A hen party

If your idea of a bachelorette party in America coincides with the stereotypes, then we may disappoint you. However, it is much more interesting than you may have imagined. The girls share cool memories that they had with the bride, look at old photos, make a bunch of new ones with a Polaroid, play a “love quiz,” and eat a lot of junk food.

“Wedding Party”

If you are a part of this privileged group, it means that all four days (the wedding can last more than one) you will only change dresses, eat, drink and polish your small talk skills, and the ceremony itself seems to be only a 30-minute drop in the ocean of wedding events. Bachelorette party, lunch for bridesmaids, wedding and dinner rehearsal, wedding breakfast, and, finally, the ceremony. By the way, at the pre-wedding bridesmaids’ lunch, everyone gives gifts to the bride, makes compliments and photos.

Engagement location

Although it’s customary to get married in a church, modern Americans resort to such original decisions as an exit wedding ceremony, for example, on the seashore, in a flowering garden, or any other beautiful place.

General budget

On average, the cost of a wedding in Washington is $36 thousand. However, many couples now refuse large-scale celebrations and marry in the circle of their closest people – with a beautiful ceremony on the beach in California or on the shore of the Chesapeake Bay. A concept that ideally combines two opposite things – romance and rationality.

Beauty November 9, 2023

Tips to remove acrylic nails easily

Acrylic nails can be enchanting and wonderful. They suffer and persevere through the hardships of the day. False nails are what you need them to be, in any case, and can be somewhat hard to expel. When it comes time to evacuate your acrylic nails, it is imperative to do it appropriately so you secure your normal nails and fingernail skin. The paste used to hold the acrylics is solid. While it might be conceivable to slacken or tangle the nail, it can cause issues for your common nail surface. Here we have the best tips, tricks and solutions as how you can get beautiful and attractive nails at https://www.bestadvisor.com/how-to/how-to-take-off-acrylic-nails.

Incorrectly removing acrylics

It can harm the normal nail, leaving it little or scratched. It can likewise harm the fingernail skin, also, tearing your nails can be somewhat difficult. To expel your acrylic nails, you have to delicately disintegrate the paste that holds them set up. It’s in reality quite basic. Begin utilizing little scissors or nail scissors to trim the nail as quickly as time permits. Keep a spotless towel or plastic sack on the outside of a table to avoid surface harm or harm to the surface.

Acetone nail polish remover

Fill a small glass bowl with acetone nail polish remover. Before dipping your hands enough to cover your nails, use a little petroleum jelly to cover and protect the cuticles and finger pointers. Immerse your fingers in nail polish removal and allow sitting for about fifteen minutes, until the glue on the nails has completely dissolved.

Wash your nails altogether to expel all nail clean remover marks. Your common nails will probably be dull and bright, so you douse some olive oil completely to help them rehydrate and give them a slight sparkle. Give your nails a chance to sit for 20 minutes in a cup of olive oil so the two nails and fingernail skin are fit as a fiddle. Line this up with a decent hand lotion connected to the hands nails and remember the fingernail skin.

Broken due to weakness

On the off chance that your nails don’t develop well or are regularly broken because of shortcoming, it is a smart thought to utilize acrylic nails to improve the appearance. Be that as it may, since it is counterfeit, you ought to in the long run evacuate it. Pick an agreeable table to sit on to evacuate acrylic nails. Spread the outside of the table with layers of waste sacks or papers so the table does not harm the surface.

Use nail clipper

Use a nail clipper to cut the acrylic nails to their minimum size so you can remove them without any discomfort. Select the nail polish remover with acetone content and fill it with a bowl solution. Apply a petroleum jelly coating around the nails and gently soak your nails in this removable solution so that the glue slowly dissolves. Since you apply jelly, your skin will not dry out.

Note that petroleum jelly should not be applied to acrylic nails. The reason for this is that it will act as a waxy surface and will prevent the removal of these areas and will not cause the glue to loosen. You need to soak your nails in solution for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Beauty November 9, 2023

#Cocobeauty: Superdrug Meadowhall Launches Beauty Studio

South Yorkshire’s magnificent shopping centre Meadowhall recently reopened the Superdrug store as a Beauty Studio, the retailer’s exciting new concept which offers shoppers an extensive menu of affordable beauty treatments, including a barber shop and hair salon.

The new look Superdrug store will also be home to a Brow & Lash Bar, Nail Bar as well as salon treatments including spray tans, waxing services and piercing.

The Beauty Studio hair salon will offer hair cutting, colouring and styling with haircuts from just £15 and colour from £12. Customers can choose to have their hair styled by a TIGI-trained stylist, senior stylist or style director.

Customers will also find the UK’s second Superdrug barber shop, offering signature wet and dry shaves, hair styling and cuts to sate the growing demand for grooming services for men. The team has been trained by WAHL, with services starting at £8 for a beard trim.

Customers will find brow and lash treatments, a full menu of manicure and nail services as well as the newest addition to the menu, ear and nose piercing from just £10. Beauty Studio will also offer spray tans and special packages to allow total transformations at great value, for example the Date Night package includes a gel manicure, strip lash application and a spray tan for just £45, or a gel polish on fingers and toes for just £35.

Beauty Studio also offers packages especially for groups, perfect for birthday parties or hen parties; for instance, four customers can have gel fingernails and toe nails for £126, representing a group saving of £34.

Hayley Treanor, Superdrug Meadowhall Manager comments; “We’re really excited to bring the full Beauty Studio experience to Sheffield. We’re sure our customers will agree this new area makes their visit to our store a truly one-stop solution to all their beauty and grooming needs.”

The Meadowhall Beauty Studio marks the third opening with the new format, following Cardiff and Leicester’s Fosse Park – and the second to feature the Superdrug Barber Shop.

Image credit: Matt Short Photography. All images were taken by Matt Short Photography at the Superdrug Beauty Studio launch at Fosse Park, Leicester earlier this year.