That's Christmas and more!

'Sensational' New Year's Eve party in Düsseldorf

2009-12-14T17:20:00.001-08:00

The German city of Düsseldorf may get overlooked in favour of some of its bigger neighbours for New Year's Eve celebrations, but visitors could find a hidden gem in the Sensation NYE party.

For the third year, Düsseldorf will host its Sensation Germany NYE 2009 at the LTU Arena on December 31st.

Celebrations will kick off at 20:00 local time and people staying in Düsseldorf hotels will not need to return to them until the early hours of New Year's Day.

Sensation is described as "one of the most spectacular dance and music phenomenons in the world", with the show touring to countries such as Australia and Brazil.

The eight-hour long event features globally-recognised DJs on the decks, accompanied by acrobats, actors, stage shows and fireworks.

In 2008, more than 30,000 clubbers saw in the new year in Düsseldorf and this year's spectacle is expected to be even more popular.

Jessica Reading, head of marketing for LateRooms, commented: "Demand for Sensation NYE is always significant and we recommend that anyone considering attending should book their hotel Düsseldorf as early as possible."

Tickets for the event start from €69 (£62.40) and offer access to the main room as well as a chill-out area where food and drinks are available.

Deluxe options are also available for those with a bit more cash to splash this year.

Hotels.com reveals it pays to shop around as top end hotels cut prices

2009-12-14T17:02:00.000-08:00

Hotels.com, the leading accommodation site, has encouraged travellers to shop around when booking their Christmas city breaks to secure a top end hotel for a mid end price.

Top-end hotels (particularly those in the four-star category) have cut their prices harder than other categories, which means that the price difference between a three-star hotel and a four-star is less than it has been for years. The average cost of upgrading from a mid-range to a top class hotel is as low as £2 per night in Oslo, just £7 in Barcelona and £9 in Madrid and Mexico City.

The cost of a shift to a four-star hotel can bring huge benefits, with better facilities, often more central locations, great restaurants (for that all important holiday breakfast) and bigger rooms.

However, four-star hotels have struggled particularly in the downturn as travellers have continued to take their main holidays but have made other breaks a discretionary purchase and have trimmed costs - preserving their break but spending less on hotels. The response from many hotels in the four-star category has been to cut rates back harder than those in the three-star category, bringing the cost of upgrade down substantially.

Alison Couper, director of communications at Hotels.com says: "While many still want to head off on breaks over the autumn and winter, there is a sense that money should be saved wherever possible.

"However, we would counsel travellers to shop around and not to think that, just because a hotel has three stars over the door, they will save money - in many cases four-star rooms can be cheaper than three-star hotels, and the cost of an upgrade might be much lower than travellers think."

FACT FILE:

*Hotels.com's Hotel Price Index (HPI) is a regular survey of hotel prices in major city destinations across the world. The HPI is based on bookings made on Hotels.com.

The HPI tracks the actual prices paid per room by Hotels.com customers around the world rather than advertised rates. The latest HPI looks at prices from January to June 2009, compared to the same period in 2008. Approximately 78,000 hotels in more than 13,000 locations make up the sample of hotels from which prices are taken. The HPI was started in 2004 and is considered by some to be the most comprehensive and accurate source of global hotel pricing information

As part of the Expedia group which operates in all major markets, Hotels.com offers more than 100,000 quality hotels, B&Bs and serviced apartments worldwide including hotels in Dublin, hotels in New York, Edinburgh hotels and hotels in London. If a customer can find the same deal for less on a prepaid hotel, Hotels.com will match it. Hotels.com benefits from one of the largest hotel contracting teams in the industry negotiating the best rates for its customers, plus there are 1.3m reviews from users who have actually stayed in the hotels to ensure customers make an informed choice when booking. Hotels.com won the Gold Award for best hotel booking site in Webuser magazine in February 2009. Travellers can book online or by contacting one of the multilingual call centres on 0871 200 0171.

Wild Sling... I Think I Love You!

2009-12-13T11:54:00.000-08:00

Wild Thing... You make everything... Groovy! As the song goes, the Wild Sling can make any get together groovy, and if there is someone who loves a little mischief then this could be the gift for them. If you know somebody who loves to have fun & embrace their wild side... then we have the perfect gift to turn a simple water fight into something much bigger and better!

GettingPersonal loves the Wild Sling, the newest addition to our amazing range of fun gifts. This truly fantastic gift is a giant water balloon launcher... so all you need to do to release the fun is - Aim, Stretch and Fire! Whether you are looking to transform an afternoon with your mates or bring a little fun to a family BBQ, the Wild Sling is sure to take the game-playing to the next level!

Wild Sling gives you the power to launch water balloons up to 300 feet through the air! Our fun gift is sure to get them down to the local park for an epic water balloon battle in no time!

The Wild Sling includes: 1 Launcher, 150 Water Balloons & a Carry Case. It is suitable for ages 16+
Available from www.GettingPersonal.co.uk for just £12.95 the Wild Sling is just one of many fun gifts on offer. Items are usually despatched within 24 hours and can be delivered free-of-charge when £30 or more is spent in one transaction.

Tough times in which to buy gifts? Be creative!

2009-12-13T08:17:00.000-08:00

There's no denying that times, especially for some of us, are a little bit tough. And buying gifts can be hard. If not, apparently, impossible. But let's look at ways you can still have a good Christmas this year, even if there's not much money in the bank!

Firstly, look at making some craft items. For ideas take a look at the article on Dylon, here on That's Christmas. If you can knit or sew, look at making some knitted or sewed gifts. If you aren't all that practical, look out for a Christmas gift fare. There are many bargains to be had. Just go and take a look at craft fares, Christmas fêtes, etc.

Here's another idea. Buy an inexpensive wicker hamper or get a sturdy box. And fill it with small jars of jams, preserves and different types of honey. It will make a splendid Christmas hamper for someone and these gifts are generally very well received. They can last months and will be a reminder to the recipient of a very nice Christmas gift, every time they use one of the jars from the hamper. You can also put other items in the hamper. For example, small gifts like pens, handmade craft items, etc. Put your own unique twist on it by padding out any gaps with inexpensive wrapping paper.

Talking of paper, if you are practically minded, why not look at making your own paper? That way you can make paper gifts (notelets, etc) for friends and family. Just Google it. There's plenty of sites with step-by-step instructions. You can even buy kits from some craft shops.

You can also make candles. Kits are available from all good craft shops.

Have fun and you'll have a great Christmas!

Christmas Address Finding Skyrockets 192.Com Sees 230% Increase In Demand For Address Finder

2009-12-13T06:31:00.000-08:00

192.com, the UK’s premier people and business finder, has seen a dramatic increase in address searches this month and predicts that Tuesday 15th December will be the busiest day. In fact, compared to the first ten days of November, internet searches for “address finders” have increased by 230%.

After a difficult year for many people, family has become even more important than usual. Recent research by 192.com has also confirmed this with a number of the top searches on the site involving looking for family. The most popular uses of the site are:
• People looking for an old friend (49%)
• Looking for a phone number for a family member they have lost touch with (38%)
• Finding the full address of a relative (37%)
• Looking for a long lost relative (28%)

Joanna, a 192.com user, who has been reunited with her family after 30 years said “This is the best Christmas present I could ever have asked for.” With many records available for free on the site, a wonderful reunion like this could cost little more than the price of a stamp or phone call. (Please see attachment for case study)

192.com is the best way to find people and addresses on the web as it searches Directory Enquiries as well as the Edited Electoral Roll giving the greatest coverage of the UK population. The website searches over 700 million records giving three times more coverage than the phonebook or social networking sites such as Facebook.

Dominic Blackburn, Product Director 192.com said, “We all like to receive Christmas cards from friends and family but this year family has become particularly important. If you haven’t spoken to someone for a while, sending a card at Christmas shows that you are still thinking of them and is a great way to stay in touch with people.”

To try it out for yourself visit www.192.com and enter the person's name and location to check their full address details.

Remember to make sure your cards are posted as early as possible and certainly no later than Friday 18th December – the last day for Christmas post this year.

Beau Dame Beautiful – Real lingerie for Real Women

2009-12-13T06:21:00.000-08:00

We are not all a perfect size 10, but a nation consisting of many different shapes and sizes. The common denominator though, and driving force behind Beau Dame, is that all women love to look and feel a million dollar$……. Finding the perfect underwear, often dove tails for the perfect outfit. Get it wrong, disaster…. Nicola Rodney Crook, and her devoted team have launched their new website www.beaudamelingerie.co.uk , which includes stunning ranges from wedding lingerie specialist Confetti.

The new, easy feel website makes shopping so simple. It’s a one stop shop for all your lingerie requirements, and you’ll be able to buy the top brands in one place, such as Panache, Freya, Freya Active, Fantasie, Wonderbra and Elomi. As Beau Dame CEO, Nicola oozes passion when it comes to women looking and feeling great. Her mission is for all women to utilise their curves, and instil that feel good factor about femininity, and sexuality, irrespective of size and cup status

Having had a breast augmentation 5 years ago, Nicola has complete empathy with the masses of women who struggle to get subtle, feminine bras in larger sizes. Many women feel pigeonholed into shopping with the major retailers, just because they have a larger back or cup size, considered outside of the conventional sizes. Herein lies the problem. Lack of choice, and often a lack of quality. Beau Dame flies in the face of convention.

Nicola states “It is our belief that women need to embrace what they have and not do not have to make do. We all have a need to feel pretty, as well as comfortable in our lingerie.” When we accept the fact, as a populace, we are increasing in size, and more and more women are having breast enhancement surgery, we have to roll with the times” she added.

Nicola speaks from experience, given in 2004, she went from a 32 AA, to 32 D, which adds credence to her enthusiasm for the exiting brand that is Beau Dame Lingerie. Using Panache, Freya, Fantasie and the ever popular Wonderbra Ultimate Strapless for example, the company will stock strapless bras, with ranges from size 28 up to 48, from a D to K cup, and will cater for the larger cup sizes.

“Our company is keen to introduce sleek and sexy maternity lingerie into the fray, with the hot New Zealand based brand Cake, with lines in black and raspberry ripple, as well as pretty and feminine nursing bras from Milk, which come with stunning, yet delicate designs,” Nicola was keen to point out. She added “now women can go for a practical nursing bra, that actually looks and feels pretty too.”

The Beau Dame Collection for Spring / Summer 09, complete with the effervescent Panache figure flattering swimwear which gives a girl that Riviera feeling, along with the sensual, seductive wedding lingerie from Fantasie. With a keen price point, and a genuine handle on what real women want and need, Beau Dame hits the spot. They have got it all.

To all our customers, 10% off all products online, and free UK Delivery. Hurry offer ends 23/12/2009

Lloydspharmacy wishes customers a flu-less Christmas

2009-12-13T06:17:00.001-08:00

Lloydspharmacy has announced that it has cut the price of its winter flu vaccinations by more than half price to encourage more people to protect themselves against the virus.

Recent research carried out by Lloydspharmacy found that take up for the vaccine has fallen this year*. This could be due to a misguided belief that the swine flu jab will protect against winter flu**. However, price may also be a factor as people cut back during the recession. At £5, the Lloydspharmacy winter flu vaccine is now the cheapest on the high street compared to Asda and Tesco which are both priced at £8.00.

Chris Frost, pharmacist and director at Lloydspharmacy, said: "Winter flu can be debilitating and in some cases lead to very serious health issues. By making the vaccines available in our pharmacies across the country we've already improved access. Now they're even more affordable we hope to have removed another barrier to people protecting themselves. The last thing anyone wants is to have flu over Christmas."

Seasonal flu is responsible for the deaths of about 8,000 people in the UK a year and tends to affect the more vulnerable or elderly people. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control forecast that the swine flu and seasonal flu strains could each claim 40,000 lives across Europe this winter.

People over the age of 65 qualify for a free NHS seasonal flu vaccination as do people with conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Others are able to get themselves protected on the high street. Lloydspharmacy offers a seasonal flu vaccination service in 260 of its pharmacies.

Here come the girls! Sexy photoshoots for Christmas!

2009-12-13T06:16:00.001-08:00

Sexy photoshoots for Christmas...make it a cracker with FYEO Portraits

Come on boys! Stop struggling for inspiration and ideas for the woman in your life, and book a fabulous, glamorous body sculpting photo shoot for her with FYEO Portraits, the UK’s original boudoir photography studio.

Dazzle her with the ultimate Christmas gift this year at the UK’s leading photographic studio. For Your Eyes Only Portraits is run by Alexandra Burns and boasts an all female team of professional photographers.

Using their exclusive photographic techniques, the team guarantee that everyone leaves the studios feeling like a million dollars! Your sexy goddess gets to capture her true beauty and sensuality on film forever, and you get to enjoy a portrait or album of photos of her looking at her very best! And with bookings for boudoir photo shoots up 35 per cent this year, there is no time like the present!

There are various glamorous packages to choose from including the Christmas Cracker Shoot. For just £199.00 this mini shoot gives you a gallery of images so you can make your own choice from a selection of gifts such as a gorgeous framed print or a mini stocking-filler album.

Choose your fave shot from all our gorgeous poses online and then bring along something sexy and Christmassy to wear, or pick out your favourite lingerie for a classic, lasting look.

The package includes

• Make-up touch up with a professional make-up artist
• One-to-one photo shoot with your female photographer
• Body sculpting direction into poses to suit your body
• Posture and styling advice
• FYEO airbrushing
• A private online gallery with approx 15 images

The Dynamic Shoot is FYEO’s premium photoshoot and includes full make up makeover and a large photograph for £295.00.

The package includes:

• Full makeover make-up with FYEO® in-house makeup artist
• One to one session with a female photographer
• FYEO® Retouching and skin smoothing
• On-line gallery displaying approx. 40 images
• Your favourite photograph as a large print
The Makeover Photo Shoot is the premium photo shoot, and includes full make up makeover and a beautiful album with 10 photographs for £695.00

The package includes:

• Full makeover make-up
• One to one with your own female photographer who will direct you into all the most flattering body sculpting poses to suit you
• FYEO® Airbrushing and skin smoothing
• Online gallery displaying approx. 50 images
• FYEO® leather album with ten beautiful photographs

Alexandra Burns said: “These mini packages are the perfect festive treat and guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face on Christmas morning!

“We are very proud of our world class reputation in the photographic industry. Our all female team of photographers are selected, not only for their talent, but importantly for their approachable personalities and ability to put our customers at ease. Our mission is to make you feel absolutely fantastic about the way you look, whatever your size or body shape, and to help you to create a unique and personal photo gift - wherever you are in the world. We are passionate about creating images that flatter bodies and lift spirits.”

Christmas on a budget from Wing Yip

2009-12-13T06:13:00.000-08:00

With the nation’s focus firmly set on saving money, Wing Yip offers the ideal solution to Christmas banqueting on a budget.

You can cater for up to ten people for under £20 by using simple Chinese ingredients and following Wing Yip’s easy to follow recipe suggestions.

Authentic dishes can be prepared easily using the Wing Yip Sauce Pack which contains nine sauces ranging from Spicy Szechuan and Kung Po to Chow Mein Stir Fry and Plum Sauce. At £12.07, including a free recipe book, this pack offers the base for a selection of fantastic meals and Oriental feasts.

Chinese curries make a tasty main dish and the sauce pack includes Wing Yip’s Curry Sauce Concentrate. The paste goes a long way, just mix with water and add meat to create an authentic texture and taste.

If you are entertaining and don’t want to spend the evening in your kitchen, then Wing Yip’s comprehensive Celebration Platter recipe suggestion is the ideal solution.

Full details and all the ingredients can be found on Wing Yip’s online store. The platter contains a variety of finger foods, from sweet chilli and coriander skewers to deep fried seaweed and prawn toast.

Side dishes are a must at any banquet. To accompany those mouth watering main dishes why not serve with noodles. A 16 piece pack is £4.45; simply put the noodles into a pan of boiling water and cook for about one and a half minutes.

For an extra twist, add to drained noodles a jar of Wing Yip’s Chow Mein Stir Fry Sauce (185ml) £1.29, some bamboo shoots (560g) 55p, straw mushrooms (425g) 75p and water chestnuts (567g) 75p.

Everything you need is available online or from the Wing Yip superstores, including Oriental beers, wines, fortune cookies, chopsticks and tableware.

Customers can access more than 800 Wing Yip products, 100 Oriental recipes and store information by visiting www.wingyipstore.co.uk

Think of Dylon this Christmas

2009-12-13T06:05:00.000-08:00

Whenever you think of Dylon you probably think of their spiffy in the washing machine dye products. But there's more, much more, to Dylon than this.

Are you thinking of getting someone a unique present this Christmas? Why not get them a bespoke t-Shirt? Made to a thoroughly unique design? Too expensive? Not a bit of it! Dylon produce an easy-to-use transfer solution to place images on T-shirts! Well, in fact, in anything you want.

And Dylon produce a whole range of fabric paints that you can brush on, and also in the shape of special pens that you can draw your own designs on to just about any fabric that you want to.

Imagine! You can buy plain silk ties from craft shops and make a crazily original Christmas present for your favourite uncle who collects ties! Or you can make your own, unique baby bibs for babies, or t-shirts for just about anyone! Or specially designed handkerchiefs for men or women.

The only limitation to what you can do is your own imagination! Either make a unique gift for someone you love or make something for yourself to really wow people when you atend a Christmas or New Year's Eve party! Imagine people saying: “Wow! Where did you buy that fancy t-shirt?” And then imagine the shocked look on their faces when you say: “I didn't buy it. I made it myself!” Who knows? They might want you to make something for them!

To find out more visit http://www.dylon.co.uk/

Win £8,000 on Slots N Games ‘Super Santa’ Scratch Card

2009-12-10T17:09:00.001-08:00

Christmas is always full of surprises and today, Slots N Games has a little treat for all of its players: a brand new scratch card game called ‘Super Santa Scratch’. Not only is this game fun and festive, it also gives every player a chance to win an amazing £8,000!

The release of Slots N Games’ Super Santa Scratch Card follows the recent launch of ‘Santa’s Slotto Grotto’, a 20-line slot game that will be home to the ‘Week Before Christmas’ Slots Tournament running from the 14th to the 23rd December 2009. The prize pool for the Tournament is £500 and all players are invited to participate.

Slots N Games now has seven different scratch card games and a total of 60 instant win games for players to choose from. What’s more, there are seven progressive jackpots waiting to be won every single day with totals reaching £100,000. Lucky player Stephen Mills from Wolverhampton already scooped £20,000 playing Vegas Nights Slots proving that winning truly is a reality.

Anthea Michael, Director of Slots N Games, comments; “we like to keep the volume of fun turned up to the max. Our players are always looking for new and exciting games to play with big cash prizes and we strive to give them exactly what they want. Players can also expect more fantastic games and promotions to come in the New Year.”

Following the huge success of its X Factor game, licensed from Freemantle Media, Slots N Games will also introduce more games based on popular UK TV shows early next year.

In addition to Super Santa Scratch and Santa’s Slotto Grotto, Slots N Games is offering fantastic Christmas promotions including Santa’s £1000 Giveaway, Secret Santa and The Week Before Christmas Slots Tournament - all of this, plus a Triple Bonus up to £275 for all new players.

If you’re looking for some Christmas ‘Fun N Games’ and instant win cash prizes, pop over to Slots N Games and partake in the action. To stay up to date with all the latest promotions, click here or visit the Slots N Games Blog. Happy Christmas!

'80s favourite, “SodaStream” makes a comeback

2009-12-10T16:54:00.000-08:00

Back in the days of fluorescent odd-socks, cycling shorts, stonewashed denim, Bros and Rainbow Brite, a fizzy drinks-making machine took the nation by storm!

If you remember SodaStream, you were either one of the lucky kids who had one – or the one who didn’t and dreamed of your very own fizzy-drink factory. (EDITOR: I bought noe for my family when they first came out! Oh! The memories!)

Comedian Tommy Cooper had appeared in SodaStream’s ads in the 1970s, showing you could make fizzy drinks ‘Just like that’. A decade later, almost everyone seemed to be getting 'busy with the fizzy.' and every kid was begging their parents for their very own soda maker.

Well, now Sodastream is back, to give a whole new generation of fans the chance to ‘get busy with the fizzy’ and make their own soda in a range – or combination – of different flavours.

An exclusive SodaStream Pop-up Shop will open in Central London in mid-December selling limited-edition products. SodaStream is priced at £59.98 for the soda making unit, with flavours and gas canisters starting from £2.99. You can also buy SodaStream via www.sodastream.co.uk and selected stores (listed on the website).

The '80s favourite has had a sleek makeover and is available in a range of designs and colours, including chrome, red and white; whilst flavours are now all low-sugar or no-sugar and flavours include Cola, Lemonade, Tonic and vitamin-rich ‘Energy’.

Follow SodaStream on Twitter@sodastreamuk

Mark Wyatt, the man behind bringing SodaStream back to the UK, says “We hope the nation will enjoy getting busy with the fizzy all over again.”

FACT FILE:

History:

The ‘home carbonation’ system that preceded SodaStream was invented in 1903, by Guy Gilbey of London Gin Distillers

He sold the machine, which added sparkle to tap water via a pressurised carbon dioxide cylinder, to Britain’s wealthy households

They were seen as so fashionable by the upper class that even the Royal Household had one!

In the Twenties, flavour concentrates were introduced, such as Cherry Ciderette and Sasparilla and its popularity really took off

The following decade the firm launched its Vantas model, also known as 'The Penny Monster', which was sold to shopkeepers to make drinks for their customers.

SodaStream became a cult of the 1970s and '80s. Its popularity later spread to other countries, including Australia, New Zealand and Germany

Milkstream was a variation on the SodaStream for making milkshakes, created by the same company. The ingredients (milk, ice cream and Crusha syrup) were mixed in a tall glass and inserted into the machine, so that the wand extended into the glass to froth up the shake

Milkmen were even recruited to sell products door-to-door!

Lenny Henry appeared in ads to promote a new flavour range in the 1990s

SodaStream is now owned by Israeli-based company, Soda Club, which offers a variety of more healthy soft drink flavours (such as diet drinks) alongside original syrup flavours

How it works:

Just fill the carbonating bottle
Screw the bottle into the drinksmaker
Press the button until you get the famous SodaStream buzz (3-5 times depending on how fizzy you like it)
Add your flavour concentrate

With no batteries or electricity, the new SodaStream is a highly energy-efficient small appliance. The power supply comes from Alco2Jet Cylinders which are refillable

Did you know that every one litre bottle of SodaStream you make saves three aluminium cans? That means that over 3 years, a family of four could slash their soft-drink-related packaging usage by over 90%

12 Beers of Christmas

2009-12-10T16:47:00.000-08:00

12 Beers of Christmas

Women account for 61% of all grocery shoppers – so there’s a fair chance they’ll be visiting the beer aisle this Christmas to pick up a six-pack or two of lager for guests. But research tells us that women find beer as exciting as buying a can of veg2 - hardly surprising when the majority don’t drink it. 77% of women say they never or very rarely drink beer, with just 6% choosing to drink it during a meal with family and friends.

BitterSweet Partnership, which challenges the image of beer among women, believes it’s about choosing the right beer. Did you know, for example that chocolate is actually a far better match with beer than with wine? And that a refreshing 330ml bottle of lager has 142 calories while a 250ml glass of champagne has 190 calories?

BitterSweet Partnership has selected 12 festive beers to accompany those special Christmas occasions. So take the stress out of the beer aisle and impress friends and family with your new found beer knowledge – you might end up keeping them for yourself.

www.bittersweetpartnership.com

Kasteel Cru

brewed with champagne yeast, this makes a delicious alternative to bubbly Bacchus

Frambozen

this raspberry beer is fantastic with rich chocolate puddings

Coors Light

a light, refreshing beer, ideal for those lunchtime drink does

Kasteel Cru Rose

a great partner with party canapés such as prawns, black olives and truffly patés

Mulled Beer

fun to make and enjoy on frosty nights!

Combine 3 bottles Coors Light with 50g brown sugar, 2 cinnamon sticks (snapped in half), 6 cardamom pods, 4 cloves, ½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg and 2 slices of lemon in a saucepan over a medium

heat, stirring until liquid simmers. Turn off heat and leave to infuse for at least ten minutes – serve in mugs or handled glasses (serves four).

Blue Moon

seasoned with orange and coriander, this distinctive beer loves fish dishes

Kriek

this cherry-sweet beer is fun, fruity and a perfect alternative to red wine after a hard day of Christmas shopping! Serve chilled over ice.

BeeWyched

Honey Beer

this pale golden beer is a match made in heaven with turkey and chicken

Innis and Gunn

rich in caramel flavours with hints of apple - a perfect accompaniment to a cosy night in with a great Christmas film

Grolsch Weizen

another party food favourite, this wheat beer is gorgeous with smoked salmon canapés and sausages with honey glaze

Worthington’s White Shield

leave out for Santa to enjoy with ginger biscuits to complement this full-bodied beer, then enjoy it yourself once the kids have gone to bed! For those with less of a sweet tooth, it’s also heaven-sent with blue cheese

Cobra

make turkey curry with leftovers and enjoy with this crisp, smooth beer

BitterSweet Partnership is a business launched by Molson Coors to make beer a real choice for women.

Shape Ups for a New Years' Resolution

2009-12-09T16:30:00.000-08:00

Many new years resolutions have already been made as Skechers Shape Ups Top Cyber Monday Sales in the first week of December.

The exercise trainer from American brand Skechers designed to get you in shape without setting foot in a gym has enjoyed phenominal success since its July launch, so with a series of Christmas dinners and the new year on its way, sales of Skechers Shape Up trainers have been soaring.

Intended for people with hectic lifestyles who have little time to enjoy sports or attend gym classes, Shape Ups were designed help to tone and strengthen the legs, buttocks, back and core muscles by mimicking the effects of barefoot walking.

They do this by combining a soft foam insole, dynamic rolling bottom and a dual density midsole. The soft foam insole allows the heel to sink into the shoe as you step, in the same way as walking on soft sand. The dynamic rolling bottom aids the foot in rolling from the heel and on to the forefoot, before pushing off with the toes. Meanwhile, the dual density midsole provides comfortable cushioning to protect your feet and joints from hard surfaces.

Wearing Skechers Shape Ups regularly whilst walking to work, doing the weekly shop or walking the kids to school will not only stronger muscles as well as a slender and more toned physique, but will also improve posture for even better long term health benefits.

Every year, growing numbers of people endeavour to get in shape as part of their New Years resolutions. So by making exercise more easily accessible and cost effective, Skechers Shape Ups are the perfect get fit quick solution.

For news, reviews, guides and the official Skechers Shape Ups clinical case study, visit Fitness Footwear, the web's #1 Skechers Shape Ups UK store.

Macdonald Hotels and Resorts encourages Boxing Day bargain hunters to swap clothes for holidays

2009-12-09T16:27:00.000-08:00

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts has predicted that whilst the sales will be in full swing on the high street, savvy shoppers are getting ready to snap up a raft of deals from hotels around the UK. While last Christmas many Britons ditched the traditional Boxing Day turkey sandwiches and TV for a trip to the sales in search of some fashion retail therapy, this year the 'staycation generation' are set to avoid the crowds and the queues at the tills during the annual break in exchange for some holiday bargains.

To capitalise on this change, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts has launched a new set of special Winter breaks packages, providing 50% off over the winter season and a further 50% off stays during 2010. With a 50% discount on accommodation at any of its four and five star properties in the UK and Spain, the Winter Breaks offer is available on all leisure stays taken between 26 December 2009 and 8 March 2010.

As an added incentive to those who choose to book their break during the Boxing Day weekend, they will also receive automatic entry into a prize draw to win one of five one-week holidays in Spain.

The new Winter Break rates also include two children up to the age of 12 going free. The offers include a range of breaks, including The Macdonald collection, Winter sun, Winter Weekend Breaks, Winter City Breaks, and UK Breaks packages available through Macdonald Hotels & Resorts on bookings placed between 17 November and 30 December 2009 for stays between 26 December 2009 and 8 March 2010, excluding New Year.

Consumers Can Be in Credit this Christmas with 110 Cashback

2009-12-09T16:17:00.001-08:00

110% cash back site launched by WOW Media

Christmas is coming, and British consumers can earn bountiful rewards on their last minute gift shopping thanks to 110 Cashback ( http://www.110cashback.com ), a cash back site launched by Birmingham-based WOW Media UK Ltd and run by young entrepreneur, Matt Lovett. In these credit crunching times, 110 Cashback is unusual in paying out 110% of the commission earned by its users when they shop on its featured retailers’ websites.

It only takes a minute to register with 110 Cashback and then the user can start shopping with more than 500 listed retailers, including: Additions Direct, Adidas Shop, Auto Trader, ASDA, B&Q, Blacks, Butlins, Carphone Warehouse, CD-Wow, Champneys, Co-op Electrical Shop, Debenhams, Marks & Spencer, Sainsburys, PC World, Vodafone Small Business, and many more.

To earn cash back on their shopping, the user simply logs into 110 Cashback and clicks through to their chosen retailers’ sites. The online shopping they do is tracked using cookies, so 110% of the transaction value can be earned either as Amazon vouchers or Paypal funds, which can be withdrawn from 110 Cashback thirty days later.

There’s no ‘catch’ involved with using the system and no annual fee to pay: users simply pay a £2 transaction fee when they withdraw funds. Meanwhile, 110 Cashback helps retailers by providing access to a vast database of shoppers who are spending on products and services in these difficult times.

Matthew Lovett, young entrepreneur and founder of WOW Media UK Ltd, comments: “Aimed at anyone who shops online and wants to save money, 110 Cashback offers a great level of 110% commission to the user, unlike rival sites that pay either 50% or 100% - i.e. we give back more than we earn on each transaction. Many rival cash back sites charge an annual £5 administration fee, whereas 110 Cashback only charges £2 when the user withdraws their funds. We make our money through site advertising and the £2 withdrawal fee, so we can offer a market-beating cash back deal. And we are adding new retailers to our roster every day.”

Lovett points out that one other website pays up to 110% cash back: however, the user must earn £200 with the site in the previous month to gain this rate. 110 Cashback gives the user 110% all the time, regardless of whatever they earn on their shopping. “Thanks to us, consumers can make their money stretch further this Christmas and they can use the funds they earn to enjoy Paypal and Amazon purchases in the New Year,” concludes Lovett.

Past Times. The future of your family Christmases for years to come

2009-12-08T16:22:00.000-08:00

There has been, in my mother's family, a very much beloved Christmas tree ornament that has had pride of place on the family Christmas tree every year since my Grandfather bought it sometime before World war 2. It was expensive. Well, it was made from a new material, a type of plastic, so it was a great novelty. It was a brightly coloured figure of Santa with a sack of presents on his back. It is a still a much-treasured family Christmas heirloom.

I have seen the next generation of much-treasured family Christmas heirlooms, courtesy of Times Past. It is a large glass bauble which contains a glass rocking horse.

It is described on the Past Times website as: “A beautiful commemorative Christmas bauble featuring a carefully hand spun rocking horse edged with red and gold.”

It has the worlds: “Christmas 2009 in gold writing on the globe, it has a gold organza ribbon to enable you to hang it from your Christmas tree. The website tells us that the price has fallen from £5.50 to £4.40. It's now an even bigger bargain than before!

If you buy this Christmas decoration you will not be disappointed.

And should you feel a little patriotic, then why not buy a fun Union Jack glass bauble from Times Past? It's a Times Past exclusive, so you won't get it anywhere else. It's a little bit retro and a lot of fun, comes complete with gold braid for hanging and at £7.50 is a must for anybody who likes the flag or the design!

For details of these and other Christmas products visit http://www.pasttimes.com

The World's Wackiest Christmas Gift Experience. Ever.

2009-12-07T17:31:00.000-08:00

SET TO be the must-try experience of 2010, The World’s Wackiest Racers is an essential quirky Christmas gift for anyone game for a laugh in 2010.

The Worlds Wackiest Racers see participants thunder round a race track in the World’s fastest 87 mph sofa; fastest street-legal bed; the hottest hot desk or double-decker car as seen on BBC’s Top Gear.

For just £99 experience the weirdest ways to travel with this gift experience from www.exhilaration.co.uk.

Be chauffeured through country lanes in the World’s fastest street-legal bed. Thunder around a race track on an 87 mph sofa. Tame the Double Decker car (as seen on BBC’s Top Gear) and pull up a seat to the World’s fastest office. This truly is the weirdest and wackiest way to travel!

The World’s Hottest Desk

Jackets and ties are provided as you head for a chauffeured trip in a fully equipped office for three laps around the super fast raceway. Securely strapped in to your office chair you’ll have full use of the computers, conference table and water-cooler

The World’s Fastest Sofa

Shake up coach potatoes on this iconic leopard-skin print 87mph sofa

Double Decker Cruise

Get behind the wheel in a double decker car. Forget buses, imagine two cars, one on the roof of the other! You will either be the driver in the top car controlling the steering, or the driver in the bottom car controlling the pedals, totally barking and fantastic fun for half a mile!

Fast Asleep Bed Tour

Head out onto public roads for a five mile adventure tour, safely tucked up under your duvet. Your chauffeur will drive you through lovely British countryside and return you thoroughly relaxed. Nightcaps and hot water bottles provided!

And at the end of your wacky experience take a break in the Wacky Race Movie Theatre and see how some of the world’s wackiest cars are put through their paces, collect your certificate and get back to reality!

Parker and Waterman Pens, make an exciting Christmas

2009-12-07T16:40:00.000-08:00

Stuck for Christmas present inspiration, why not give the gift of fine writing? For over 120 years both Parker and Waterman have been dedicated to perfecting the pen and have created some of the finest writing instruments in the world. Offering a coveted gift for someone special, the diverse collections offer superior products for all price brackets, people and personalities this Christmas. Presented here is a selection of highlights from the current collection.

UNDER £200

Parker Premier

Featuring precious materials and expert craftsmanship, the Parker Premier bridges years of excellence with contemporary design. Highly regarded for her work with Fendi, Versace and Calvin Klein, it has been designed by Italian designer Beatrice Fontana, who has reinterpreted Parker’s rich heritage to create this stunning writing instrument. From its iconic arrow clip and solid gold nib to its tactile precious-metal grip, the Parker Premier is available in a number of high style finishes making it the perfect gift for a loved one. RRP £95-£285.

Waterman Perspective Black Chrome Trim Fountain Pen and Ballpoint set

Drawing inspiration from fine architecture, the Waterman Perspective is an exquisite and contemporary gift for your loved one this Christmas. Featuring an ultra-clean line, coupled with a chrome nib and trim, the pen is available in both fountain pen and ballpoint modes, and features in a special Christmas set, which comes complete with an ink bottle and presentation case. RRP £129 (Christmas set including both fountain pen and ballpoint modes).

UNDER £100

Parker Sonnet Stainless Steel Fountain Pen and Ballpoint set

Give the gift of a true fine writing experience with a Parker Sonnet Stainless Steel set, a modern classic that will always be of the moment. The brushed steel gives a deliciously tactile texture to the barrel and sets off the chrome-plated trim and nib perfectly. Modes available in the range include a fountain pen, roller ball, standard and slim ballpoints and a slim pencil. As an added extra this Christmas, choose from a 1GB memory stick, perfect for those on the go, or a letter opener for the more traditional recipient. RRP £59.00-£69.00 (Christmas set including both fountain pen and ballpoint modes).

Waterman Hémisphère

Featuring timeless lines, the Waterman Hémisphère Shimmery Pink set makes an ideal gift for a special lady this Christmas. Practical, discreet and slipping easily into a bag or diary, the exquisite design of the pen makes it the perfect accessory. Available in a range of modes, including fountain, ballpoint and roller ball, the range matches a gold or chrome nib with a barrel in steel, matt black, gold or metallic blue. The Waterman Hémisphère also comes in a cluster of sparkling finishes, including Comet Red, featuring a glowing starburst-like effect. Featuring in a special Christmas pack, complete with ink bottle set, the Waterman Hémisphère Shimmery Pink is the perfect way to give a loved one a touch of sparkle this Christmas.

RRP £69.00 (Christmas set including both fountain pen and ballpoint modes).

UNDER £50

Parker Urban Fountain Pen and Ballpoint set

The Parker Urban combines ergonomics with art to create a beautiful bullet shaped pen with perfect weight and balance. Ideal for people for whom image and quality are everything, the Parker Urban fountain pen and ballpoint are designed to impress and engineered to perform. The range features a diverse choice of stylish barrel finishes, including metallic, muted black and colourful lacquers. Special packages for Christmas include a fountain pen and ballpoint set. RRP £29.00

UNDER £20

Parker Vector

A pen you can always rely on to deliver pure Parker craftsmanship, the Parker Vector is an everyday classic. Available in fountain pen, roller ball, ballpoint and pencil modes, the Parker Vector features stainless steel nibs and trims, and is available in classic red, blue or black colourways. Alternatively, opt for a Christmas gift pack containing a duo of a fountain pen and ballpoint (RRP £13.99) or a combination of a ballpoint and mechanical pencil (RRP £12.99).

Parker Jotter

A household name, the Parker Jotter is loved the world over for its quality, durability and great value. The range features bright, lively colours guaranteed to make your Christmas more colourful, and simple shapes in a number of finishes, including pink – perfect for the woman in your life. This modern classic is also available: stainless steel with gold plated trim; stainless steel with chrome coloured trim. For a gift under £20, choose a duo combination of a ballpoint pen and mechanical pencil (RRP £10.99) or stylish fountain pen and ballpoint (RRP £16.99) – the perfect pack to wrap!

The parker and Waterman Christmas sets are available from all good pen retailers.

For further information about the complete Parker or Waterman range and stockists, visit www.parkerpen.com and www.waterman.com

FACT FILE:

In 1888 the PARKER Pen Company was born. George Parker’s belief at the outset was simple “Make something better and people will buy it”. Over the past 120 years, PARKER has adhered to the mission to “make a better pen.” And thus began a journey that has created the finest writing instruments in the world.

Waterman pens was first founded in 1883 by Lewis Edson Waterman in New York, where whilst working as an insurance broker, he was due to visit a client on a building site. After failing to obtain the client’s signature on an important document due to a faulty fountain pen, he set about developing a ‘real’ fountain pen that could be depended on at all times. Setting himself up in his brother’s workshop he developed the ‘three fissure feed’. This feed was soon adopted by all fountain pen manufacturers and Waterman’s slogan became ‘The Daddy of Them All’.

Great Christmas Fare from Thursday Cottage

2009-12-07T16:38:00.001-08:00

FAMOUS for making jams and preserves like your grandma would have, Thursday Cottage's range of Christmas goodies have all been developed to let the freshness of fruit ring out, without the need of any artificial additives or preservatives.

Thursday Cottage Christmas Puddings are hand made from the finest ingredients and are available in 1lb and 4oz sizes. Nut free and suitable for vegetarians, fruit used for the Christmas Puddings is steeped in alcohol for a least a day before being cooked.

The puddings are offered in a choice of a cellophane wrapped plastic basin or a boxed earthenware basin for the 1lb, while the 4oz pudding is in a boxed plastic basin.

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without homemade mince pies, Thursday Cottage has launched its own range of mincemeat in 312g jars, using exactly similar ingredients to those used in their famed Christmas puds.

Brandy Butter and Rum Butter are also firm favourites in the Thursday Cottage Christmas goodies portfolio.

The Christmas gift range includes presentation packs of mixed jams and preserves, with either three or four 42g pots. For younger jam enthusiasts there are teddy-bear shaped pots filled full with either strawberry jam or jelly.

With a range of over 50 luxury preserves and marmalades, it’s easy to make breakfast a Thursday Cottage fine dining experience over the festive season. If you like a bit of extra zing in your jam, our strawberry and champagne, or spiced cherry and cherry brandy may well be for you. If you’re a marmalade connoisseur and are looking for something that’s definitely not run of the mill, our tangerine or pink grapefruit marmalades come highly recommended.

All preserves in the new Thursday Cottage ‘family’ are made with English organic fruit, some of which is grown on the company’s Trewlands farm.

The Marmalades are made with organic Seville orange and the lemon Curd with free range eggs.

As with all Thursday Cottage products, these delicious new additions are cooked in small batches in open pans and filled by hand.

Thursday Cottage preserves are produced to tried and tested recipes and in small open pans, encouraging that unique ‘home-cooked’ flavour.

The production unit moved in 2003 from Devon, to Tiptree in Essex. Having started life 30 years ago, Thursday Cottage now exports over 25% of its production.

In the UK, Thursday Cottage supplies to independent retailers, as well as such famous names as Selfridges and Chatsworth Farm Shop. Overseas the delicious preserves can be found in La Grande Epicerie in Paris, Castroni (Rome), Seibu (Hong Kong), Zingerman's (Chicago), and Dean & Deluca (New York) - to name but a few.

Welcome the New Year with two new sparkling wines from [yellow tail]

2009-12-07T16:35:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness! This festive season [yellow tail] presents TWO new wines to the market: BUBBLES Rosé, which is available from Asda, and BUBBLES which is available from Asda and Tesco Wine Club at an RRP of £7.98. These wines will add a sparkle to any New Year toast.

[yellow tail] BUBBLES and BUBBLES Rosé are created with a simple philosophy in mind; to make a great wine that everyone can enjoy, anytime, any place. It’s playful, fresh and vibrant, just like the guys who make it. This is no Champagne-wannabe. This is sparkling, bubbly goodness ready to make your celebrations go off with a bang!

The two new wines are delightfully fresh, fruity and soft with great palate length. [yellow tail] BUBBLES has tropical fruit flavours perfectly combined with medium sweetness and a delightful crisp finish.

[yellow tail] BUBBLES Rosé shows lifted aromas of fresh strawberries and spice, united with flavours of sweet cherries and tropical fruits.

Unearthed, brings Continental Christmas foods to the UK

2009-12-07T16:29:00.000-08:00

Continental delights come to UK consumers

unearthed, the UK’s newest brand of premium Continental food, today launches its delicious range nationwide.

Sourced from many Continental countries, including France, Spain, Greece and Italy, unearthed’s range of 22 product lines offers an authentic alternative to the choice currently available on the UK market.

Perfect for sharing and informal occasions, unearthed products offer an easy and enjoyable way to experience authentic world foods. The range includes salamis, prosciutto, chorizo and barrel-aged feta, reflecting the cuisines of Europe and the informal dining styles and way of life enjoyed in Continental cultures.

Says Simon Day, Brand Manager of unearthed: “Eating on the Continent is less about sustenance and more about substance – just like unearthed. Our products are developed for food lovers who enjoy the experience of delicious, tasty foods that are a real treat. Traditional lines are our cornerstone, loved in the country of origin but often novel here in the UK. Our focus is on flavour and accessible price points.”

The unearthed team are experts in buying internationally, constantly travelling to source new products and fully understand the processes behind the foods. All products are sourced from food suppliers with an established reputation and heritage in their field and (where possible) are manufactured at source.

Consumers can learn about the background of the range and how the products are sourced on the unearthed website. Additionally, the unearthed team will blog about their experiences at www.discoverunearthed.com

Each product has been selected to reflect informal European eating habits with most meats ready-sliced for ease of consumption and edible straight from the packet. (Ed: Not mini cooking chorizo sausages, of course!) Sleek stylish packaging and fun imagery capture the relaxed approach to eating which unearthed represents.

Adds Day: “unearthed wants to make it easy for people to try new things and to enjoy great foods. Our products are packed with flavour and are ideal for mixing and matching, as a starter or as party nibbles. Alternatively, unearthed’s online recipe suggestions can help you give a new twist to your cooking.”

Currently available from Waitrose supermarkets, Ocado and Abel & Cole, unearthed expects wider retail availability by the end of the year. Current Waitrose prices stand at:

£1.99 per pack of meat products
£2.95 per pack of olive products
£2.79 per pack of Feta
£3.45 per pack of cooking chorizo

Products offered include:

Chilled meats

Organic unearthed Antipasto Misto

Organic unearthed Italian Milano Salami

Organic unearthed Italian Pancetta

Organic unearthed Reserva Prosciutto Crudo

Organic unearthed Spanish Mountain Chorizo

unearthed Chorizo

unearthed Mini Cooking Chorizo Sausages

unearthed French Pavé Peppercorn Salami

unearthed French Saucisson Sec

unearthed French Saucisson Sec with Herbs

unearthed Italian Cooked Sausage with Pistachio

unearthed Italian Cooked Ham

unearthed Italian Prosciutto Crudo

unearthed Italian Salami Milano

unearthed Mini Kabanos Snack Sausage

Olives and Continental Starters

unearthed Greek Olive Selection

unearthed Manzanilla Olives with Sundried Tomatoes

unearthed Mixed Olives with Feta

unearthed Manzanilla Olives, Manchego and Chilli

unearthed Italian Tomato & Ricotta Skewers

Cheese

unearthed Barrel-Aged Feta

FACTFILE:

unearthed is a new food brand that brings flavours from around the world here to the UK. The products first hit the shelves in November 2008 and the aim is to put great flavours at the heart of good times, with a focus on discovery, food culture and simply enjoying eating!

unearthed products are exciting but accessible, easy to prepare and easy to share. The brand embraces the classics but also loves to innovate; the heartland of the products is Mediterranean but there is an emphasis on exploring. Brand designs are simple, colourful, clear and – above all – informal.

(Ed:Prices correct at the time of writing. Please check for details)

Make time for Guylian this Christmas

2009-12-07T16:13:00.000-08:00

Guylian Praline Seashells

Only the finest, hand selected Mediterranean hazelnuts are roasted and caramelised, before being blended with premium Belgian chocolate. Available in a 250g (rrp £4.09) or a 500g box (£8.99)

Guylian Extra Sea Shells

Made with 74 per cent dark ACTICOA™ chocolate, with a praline filled these special shells are rich in the antioxidants Available in a 125g box from Waitrose (rrp £2.29).

Les Exclusives

A selection Guylian favourites – Original Seashells, La Trufflina and Opus – all in a stylish 115g gift box (rrp £5.99 from Waitrose).

Guylian Twists

Individually wrapped seahorse-shaped Belgian chocolates with six great fillings.: Guylian Twistwraps are available in 500g sharing box from Waitrose (£7.49).

Guylian La Trufflina

A stunning combination of dark, milk and white chocolate truffles, La Trufflina, come in a standard 180g box (rrp £4.49) and in a beautifully wrapped box with brown ribbon (rrp £5.99).

Guylian Opus

Opus is a selection of assorted chocolates with music inspired names. Opus is available in a 200g box (rrp £4.49) and a gift wrapped box (£5.99) from Waitrose

Savanna Chill Pack

2009-12-07T16:07:00.000-08:00

Savanna is a rather fruity and refreshing cider that comes from South Africa. It's not too acidic and is idea to accompany food or to drink to relax with. But there'd something a little special about Savanna Cider. It comes with a special Chill Pack. How this works is that the Chill Pack contains 12 bottles of Savanna Cider. But the really clever bit is that, thanks to the special poly-coated lining, the cider stays well chilled, whilst you can all watch Chirstmas TV or listen to a carol service, or a CD of a Christmas Carol being read!

The Savanna Chill Pack costs £14.99 and is available from Tesco stores.

A brewery in a box for Christmas

2009-12-07T16:00:00.001-08:00

The Brubox London Bitter. This produces 10 litres of quality, well-hopped, copper colour bitter in the traditional London style. It makes home beer-making very easy, tasty and problem free. Each kit includes the finest quality brewing ingredients and the BruBag system, the first to enable the use of fresh hops and grains to enhance the flavour with no messy straining.

And should you want to make another brew, just buy a refill pack! The Bavarian Pilsener BruBox is also available for lager lovers, too! Each kit costs £23.97.

To find out more, to place and order or to check out refill packs, visit

http://www.peagreenthings.co.uk/p/brubox.aspx?gclid=CIzj6_TDxZ4CFeZr4wodvE-XqQ