STUNNING SICILY

…by Letitia Fitzpatrick

Fall in love with this fabulous Italian island and enjoy sun, sea and sand, fantastic food, delectable drinks as well as culture and history in abundance.

Sicily is only a three and a half hour flight from Dublin (to Palermo) with www.ryanair.com and from Dublin to Catania with www.aerlingus.com

Because it’s so far south, the weather is great from March to November. Highlights include ancient ruins, medieval churches and towns, prehistoric caves, pristine beaches with turquoise waters perfect for swimming, ancient architecture steeped in some of the Mediterranean’s richest history, towering volcanoes rising out of beautiful countryside, and a relaxed way of life that makes you want to turn any visit to the island into a permanent holiday.

FOOD

As with most of Italy, the food is a major attraction. It’s truly outstanding and shows traces of French, Spanish, Greek, Jewish and Arab influences. The food is spicier than most in Italy, with more emphasis on fish, vegetables and fruit.

The starters, known as antipasti, include caponata and gato di patate (cheese and potato pies.) Maccu is a Sicilian soup prepared with fava beans.

Sicily is the oldest Italian location on record where pasta worked into long and thin forms was part of the local cuisine. Seafood and sardine pasta dishes abound as does cannelloni. After the pasta, the typical Sicilian menu includes a second or main dish based on meat or fish. Desserts and sweets are another specialty, including fruit, granita, and cassata.

ACCOMMODATION

Today, Sicily is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations, and accommodation is much more reasonable than IN other parts of Italy. Check out hotel and apartment prices on www.booking.com. You can pay around EUR 50 a night for a basic double or twin room in either a private house or a simple family-run pension, though prices can double in summer at the most popular resorts. There are many campsites and an increasing number of bed and breakfasts. Check out www.bbitalia.it and www.travelsicilia.com

HISTORY

Sicily has been conquered many times over the years, including by the Phoenicians of North Africa, the Islamic Moors, Greeks, Romans, Normans and the Spanish among others. The island boasts sophisticated cities and picturesque villages, plus well-preserved archeological sites and splendid scenery. The towns of Syracuse, Agrigento, with its amazing park of temples, and Selinunte are all Unesco World Heritage sites. Make time for the medieval towns of Noto and Ragusa built of warm, golden stone in a Baroque style.

SIGHTSEEING

Get up close and personal with Mount Etna, an amazing volcano - eruptions permitting - on a tour to the top. You can also island-hop between the stunning yet varied landscapes of Sicily's Aeolian Islands, check out smouldering Stromboli, panoramic Taormina with its amazing ancient amphitheatre, visit Vulcano’s famous fumaroles and go on dramatic lava trials, with natural bubbling mud baths. The Zingaro National Reserve offers magnificent views of the Mediterranean.

The contrast of sea, mountains and volcanoes make a breathtaking backdrop for fun in the great outdoors. Sicily and its many offshore islands offer hiking and climbing, swimming and diving, snorkelling and more.

PALERMO

The capital is Palermo which is set in a wide bay at the foot of a valley. Bustling and busy, it features fine churches, museums and markets where you can sit and eat delicious local cuisine at ridiculously low prices and watch the world go by.

In the heart of the old city is the Quattro Canti or Four Corners, the centre of the medieval town. You will enjoy strolling around the tiered statues and make sure to drop in to the beautiful Baroque church of San Giuseppe dei Teatini with its opulent interior.

Piazza Pretoria boasts a racy fountain from the sixteenth century, and the huge cathedral or Cattedrale which wasn’t finished for centuries, is another major attraction. The Palazzo dei Normanni or royal palace occupies the high ground above medieval Palermo. Most of the interior is now taken up by the regional parliament but you can visit the Royal Apartments, as well as the beautiful Capella Palatina, a private royal chapel and an architectural and historical gem.

The restaurants in Palermo range from very reasonable to Michelin-starred, depending on your budget. There is also a trendy beach in Mondello.

To the east, the Tyrrhenian coast is popular with hikers and skiers who flock to Monti Madonie. Nearby is the chic resort of Cefalu.

Other popular destinations for sun seekers and celebs are the volcanic Aeolian Islands, seven in total including Stromboli, which can be reached by ferry and hydrofoil.

SYRACUSE

This city boasts the finest historical and architectural sites on the island with classical ruins and stunning baroque buildings. Check out the old town of Ortigia where history stretches back more than two millennia and there is a market every morning apart from Sunday. There is shopping on the Corso Matteotti and the Piazza Archimede is surrounded by restored medieval palaces. Sicily’s most beautiful square is here, the Piazza del Duomo where you can admire the beautiful buildings from pavement cafes. The city’s patron saint is Santa Lucia Ella Nadia and on her festival day (December 13) thousands of people crowd into the square to watch her statue being carried through the city. The Duomo or cathedral is well worth a visit too.

CRIME

The control exerted by the Mafia is referred to only obliquely, though it does hit the headlines occasionally. The arrest of leading Mafia figures and the successful use of informers has turned the tide against the organisation. It’s a deep-seated problem but mostly irrelevant to casual tourists. However, as in most European countries, a degree of petty crime exists so avoid back streets after dark and don’t flash bulging wallets or expensive phones and cameras.

FILM

Sicily is famous as the backdrop for the novel and film, The Godfather (1971). Mario Puzo’s compelling screenplay tells the story of Don Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando) who comes from Sicily to New York and becomes head of the Sicilian Mafia in the Big Apple. His efforts to keep hold of the family business and traditions conflict with his the values of his son Michael, played by Al Pacino. Much of the first movie in the trilogy was shot outside the beautiful city of Taormina.

Soaking up the scenery, sightseeing, swimming and eating some of the best food in Europe – what's not to like? Get ready to enjoy a sun-drenched, flavour-filled holiday on this extraordinary island.

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FURNISH – HOW TO CREATE THE PERFECT GALLERY WALL FOR YOU

A gallery wall is a fantastic way to add interest and personality to a space. Never underestimate the power of art to set the tone and energy in any room – and leave your own personal mark in terms of taste. Sometimes choosing a single piece of wall art just isn't possible – and so creating a gallery wall is the perfect solution. Here are our top 5 tips to create a high impact, cohesive gallery display for your interior.

1. CHOOSE YOUR BIGGEST ARTWORK FIRST
Find a large piece of art that you love, and use that to set the tone and atmosphere for your art display. Think about what else you have (or what else you’ll buy if you’re looking for new or second hand pieces) across a range of sizes which will complement the main piece but still sing their own song on your wall.

2. FIND A COMMON THEME OR COLOUR
Many people find that their gallery wall works best with a little order and consistency. You might choose a series of water images, for example, or perhaps animals or scenes. You may also want to theme the wall around a certain colour or set of colours that match your decor. Pops of colour in varying textures, shapes and tones work brilliantly so it doesn’t look too overdone, but to be honest, in gallery walls, everything goes – from totally matchy-matchy right through to seemingly chaotic!

3. MIX UP YOUR FRAMES
The most effective gallery walls mix up the frame types and sizes of artworks so that the display is a little haphazard. If choosing new, try to mix up sizes, shapes, colours, width or thickness and even old versus new. This might cause OCD-type tendencies to come out in some, while others relish the variety.

4. CHOOSE PORTRAIT AND LANDSCAPE
Choosing all portrait-orientation art can look a little too contrived, so make sure you have a mix of orientations to suit the space and keep things a little unpredictable. Plus a portrait-landscape mix will definitely use up the space better.

5 PLAN THE SPACE
Once you have collected all the pieces you want to display on your gallery wall, experiment with the layout. Measure your chosen wall space and plot out the dimensions on the floor using masking tape. Place your largest piece to the left or right of centre, and fit the other artworks around it, giving each one adequate space. Far easier than trying to do it on the wall! We are sure there will be an app for this somewhere – or some art sites might even offer a service, but if not, there’s a definite opportunity for someone! Happy plotting!

HEALTH | ATOMIC HABITS REALLY IS A THING

 I recently read Atomic Habits by James Clear and totally loved it. The secret to success really does lie in everyday habits - and according to Clear, once you make those teeny tweaks at an atomic, basic level, the rest falls into place.  

HOW TO BUILD GOOD HABITS

1. It’s about who you want to be, not who you are
Knowing where to start can be just as difficult as starting out. Good habits come from knowing who you want to be, rather than trying to formulate the exact outcome you want (after all, very little goes exactly the way we expect). Take a moment to think about the kind of person you want to be and ask whether that person would do (or not do) a certain action.  This is where we can start to identify opportunities to form new, helpful habits. 

2. Clarity > motivation
Sometimes when we think we lack motivation, we actually lack clarity. In order to commit to an action, it is not essential to know exactly what we are doing but critically why we are doing it. 

3. A little goes a long way
A good habit is like compound interest - investing in yourself over time will magnify the returns.

4. Remember the benefits of starting small:

• It makes starting and sticking to your new habit easier.

• Once you’ve mastered your first habit, you can then easily introduce another - this is called stacking habits: “Once I’ve done x, I will then do y straight after.”

• Stacking your habits in this way will create a new routine that you can grow over time making it even easier to follow.

5. Reward yourself
In order to make this automatic, you have to play to the strength of your own brain’s chemistry. Train it to associate achieving your habit with some sort of reward, however small. 

6. Your environment matters
A change in your environment might just be the secret weapon to unlocking your new habit. Think of it as removing temptation or simply preempting a future moment of weakness.

FILM: BARBIE - A Summer Hit That’s Not Just For Summer

Think pink and enjoy the feel-good film phenomenon that is Barbie.

Directed by Greta Gerwig, who co-wrote it with her partner, Noah Baumbach, the film has taken the world by storm in 2023. It stars Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken. They shine, along with a stellar cast, in this enchanting, hilarious romp which has captivated audiences young and old, fanatical and cynical alike.

The visual effects are stunning and the soundtrack - with music by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt - is super-catchy. Lizzo, Dua Lipa, Sam Smith & Billie Eilish are among the stars whose work features on the already multi-play listed soundtrack.

The movie is a mixture of comedy and fantasy based on the Barbie fashion dolls by Mattel. It follows Barbie and her boyfriend, Ken on a journey from crisis to self- discovery, with plenty of twists and turns, as well as laughs, to keep you amused and entranced.

The supporting cast includes Helen Mirren, singer Dua Lipa, America Ferraro of Ugly Betty fame, Kate McKinnon, Rhea Perlman, Will Ferrell, Issa Rae, Michael Cera and Simu Liu.

It’s the first live-action Barbie film, after a string of computer animations and specials. Filming took place mainly at the Warner Bros Studios in Leavesden in England and at the Venice Beach skatepark in Los Angeles.

Barbie premiered in Los Angeles in July 2023 and its simultaneous release with Universal’s Oppenheimer led to the cultural phenomenon known as

Barbenheimer, where audiences went to both movies as a double bill. Barbie has been critically acclaimed and is the highest grossing film directed by a woman, and the 18th highest grossing film of all time.

Pacy and imaginative, funny as well as moving, the film begins in Barbieland, a matriarchal society with various types of the doll, and Kens who spend all day playing at the beach, while the Barbies work in professions like law, medicine and politics. The action then moves to the real world as Barbie and Ken go on the road to find themselves, with alarming and hilarious consequences.

The main themes include female empowerment, breaking stereotypes and the message that you shouldn’t be boxed in by other people’s expectations.

Favourite quotations from the movie include Ken saying: “To be honest, when I found out the patriarchy wasn't just about horses, I lost interest.”

Barbie: “You can be brainwashed, or you can be ugly. There's nothing in between.”

And Ruth who says: “We mothers stand still so our daughters can look back and see how far they've come.”

The director, Greta Gerwig and her co-writer Noah Baumbach have impressive CVs. They wrote Greenberg, Frances Ha, Mistress America and White Noise. As a solo filmmaker, Gerwig wrote and directed Lady Bird, and Little Women (2019) earning Oscar nominations.

Gerwig and Baumbach were given full creative freedom in writing the film. They collaborated on the screenplay during the Covid pandemic lockdowns and described the writing process as free and open.

The film is a 12A and runs for 1 hr 54 minutes and if you want to get away from bad news and the daily grind, check out this movie, which is a joy to watch and will put a spring in your step and a smile on your dial.

FOLIO: ROMEO & JULIET | THE LYRIC

It’s been a decade since The Lyric has shown a Shakespeare play, and in fact Romeo & Juliet was the first, back in 1959, so this latest production of what is undoubtedly The Bard’s best known work is a welcome comeback.

Without changing the detail and the dialogue of the fifteenth century script too much (except to cut original running time by about an hour), the production team, led by

Philip Crawford and Dr Anne Bailie, has managed to simultaneously transport us to the fair Verona of the time, but also to a modern day Italian fashion week, with all the accompanying drama (pun intended) of two opposing fashion houses.

Aesthetically, the fashion packs a punch, while the set is cleverly and beautifully designed, filling the stage and accompanied by great lighting. Simple things like a great moon and a backlit stained-glass window heighten the sense of place. The iconic balcony takes centre stage – or just off stage right.

But first, some facts: Did you know that there were two star-crossed lovers in Verona, who lived and died for each other in the name of love, back in 1303? Thus making the original love story a 620 year old one? William Shakespeare is said to have read about Romeo & Juliet in Arthur Brooke’s 1592 poem ‘The Tragic History of Romeo & Juliet’; and the feuding families of the Montagues and the Capitulets were inspired by the opposing families in Dante’s ‘The Divine Comedy’. The play, as it stands, is reputed to have been written in the mid-1590s, so the story as we know it is almost 430 years old. Not bad.

If you’re an actor stepping into the shoes of any of the play’s characters, it’s bound to be equally daunting and exciting. Juliet is said to be just thirteen, while her Romeo is a good bit older. Nonetheless both are wildly passionate roles, requiring that crazy, rash, lovefool kind of emotion that only teenagers in love (or lust) can understand.

Romeo Montague – played by handsome actor Adam Gillian – captures the impulsive mood perfectly, and at the beginning of the play we learn that his Romeo is in an unrequited love ‘situationship’ with Rosaline Capulet, played (only in static photos in the set’s digital ‘ad campaigns’) by Sophie McGibbon, one of my previous models at fashion week and a future star in the making when she finishes at Guildhall in London.

At a party just hours after declaring his love for Rosaline, and in typical teenage emotional rollercoaster style, Romeo then falls head-over-heels in love with the party hosts’ daughter, Juliet Capulet (Emma Dougan), who – unlike her cousin Rosaline –catches feelings and the love is instantly reciprocated.

Therein starts the five day journey of a glimpse into these two lovers’ lives. What happens next is a punchy and fast-paced tale of teenage rebellion and angst, street fights, family feuding, first love, secrets, lies, elopement, murders, manslaughters and tragic suicides told brilliantly through some great performances – mostly faultless and excellently cast. Notably for me, Laura Hughes played a wonderful ‘nurse’ who was half Derry Girls nun, half Irish Mammy with a sprinkle of single-auntie-life-coach thrown in for good measure. Friar Lawrence was a brilliantly cool contrast to Mercutio and Thibault, who perfectly embodied two very ‘fucosi’ and passionately fiery Italian men – and having lived in Italy for a few years, I can say that with some authority.

It's no coincidence that the play is on the current GCSE syllabus and The Lyric has consulted with a number of charities to devise school workshops and support material for audiences to raise awareness and educate today’s teenagers – just as emotionally charged now, as then - about unlearning the romanticism of crimes ‘of passion’ as well as the drastic and irreversible action of suicide, which has touched far too many of us.

Romeo and Juliet runs at the Lyric Theatre until 5 March. Tickets are priced from £12

and are available from the box office at www.lyrictheatre.co.uk

HEALTHY HABITS | SHIFT YOUR MINDSET

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle always requires commitment, but if you’re overstressed at work, get thrown off your routine, or hit a plateau, maintaining healthy habits can become challenging. This can be especially frustrating if you’re trying to lose weight.

To help stay on track, The F Words (food, family, fun, faraway places, fitness, face, etc.) presents this road map to good health.

Maintaining a Balanced Diet

Eating well doesn’t need to be a difficult task. With a plan and a little motivation, if you stick to the basics, your mind and body will thank you!

● How to Focus on Your Health Without Dieting

● How to Stock a Healthy Pantry

● 25 Best Meal Delivery Services for Weight Loss in 2022

● 24 Foods Scientifically Proven to Help Ease Depression

Maximising the Exercise

If you’re having trouble busting through plateaus, have become bored with your routine, or are spending more time at home, there are plenty of ways to shake things up.  

● Overcoming Weight Loss Plateaus

● 6 Proven Ways to Break Through Weightlifting Plateaus

● How to Start Running Again After a Break

● 10 Creative No Gym Needed Home Workouts

Managing Work

As much as we all work, stress has become a normal part of our daily lives. To keep stress in check, try these tips.

● Why Hybrid Work is Emotionally Exhausting

● How to Avoid Remote Work Stress & Burnout

● How to Optimize Your Home for Healthy, Stress-free Living

● If the work stress becomes unmanageable, it may be time for a new job.

Finding ways to bust through a rut isn’t easy, but once you’ve started moving in this direction, the road will be familiar, you’ll start feeling better, and your new routines will help you live longer and happier. Find methods that work for you, and implement them wherever you can and in a way that feels right for you. Soon enough, you’ll be on the other side!

FILM REVIEW | MINIONS - THE RISE OF GRU

Cinemagic Young Film Critic Angelika Dzenite attended a special preview of Minions: The Rise of Gru with thanks to Universal Pictures Ireland and here shares her thoughts with us.

Minions: The Rise of Gru is an amazing family-friendly comedic, animated movie, which features talented film actors and actresses such as Steve Carell (voice acted Gru), TarajiP.Henson (voice acted Belle Bottom) and Russell Brand(voice acted Dr Nefario).Minions: The Rise of Gru is directed by Kyle Balda who has also made some other amazing filmography such as Despicable Me 3, Minions, The Mask and The Lorax. The films he has produced have been very successful and have won many awards like the nomination for Best Animated film in 2015 for the BAFTA Awards as well as being nominated for Outstanding Visual Effects in Animated Features in 2018 at the Visual Effects Society Awards.

The movie is about how Gru, when he was young, wanted to become a villain and this movie explores what motivated him into joining the villain Corp known as the vicious 6, as he had always aspired to be like Wild Knuckles who was unfortunately betrayed by his own team. The animated film then shows the idea of when young Gru goes to apply for the opening space in the vicious 6, it ends up going horribly wrong and that is when Gru thinks of a plan which then ends up with him and his minions on the run. What makes this film so beautiful is that it shows the power of friendship within the story line. as when Gru is on the run he bumps into Wild knuckles and is in need of help and Knuckles then helps Gru.

The plot of the story was very well done with the background to every main character you have seen in the film, as you got a glimpse of either what powers they had or what involvement they had in the film or in the film of “Despicable Me”. Theconflict was very smart as it led to a lot of rising action like the minions learning karate to them having a huge battle scene near the end of the film. The animation was amazing and really brought the feeling of excitement and action to the theatre, not to mention the music was spot on as it was based upon the 1970s which made it more accurate, and the creativity of the characters was spectacular, from a nun with floating powers and nun-chucks to a gut with an iron fist and super strength. This film also had female empowerment and showed  cultural diversity through villains to heroes.

The creative elements in the Minions: The Rise of Gru were surprisingly good but could have been better. The characters were well written, but I was expecting better because some of them barely had any screen time, like Dr Nefario who was only seen 2 minutes in the film. I wished they could have explained how he was a villain at some point in his life. Thevillainous 6 was a good concept to add to this film but I feel like the story line was rushed as it didn’t give us enough time to understand why he desired to become a villain and how he was villainous in school or at home. The genre was comedy, adventure, action and animation, the director succeeded in some parts of the film to include humour but at the same time it lacked it as well, it was the same with action. The dialogue was well written and at the end of the film it was all put together and made a heart-warming ending.

To conclude I enjoyed the film personally and it really brought childhood imagination to life as you were able to laugh and feel hyped for fight scenes as well as you get to experience spectacular animated movie with a good story line filled with character development and surprises. I would most definitely suggest this film to any age as it suitable and it gets you set off for an adventure on how Gru ended becoming a villain and hero by heart.

FITNESS | THE HEAT IS ON - LED SAUNAS ARE THE WAY TO GO

Saunas need a new publicist. Let’s face it, saunas – usually associated with men reading their newspapers in the buff – aren’t exactly top of the cool list in a world of sunrise yoga when it comes to wellness pursuits. Plus, potentially sharing your sweat and expelled breath with strangers is something we’ve been taught to avoid at all costs in the past two years, but baby, it’s cold outside, and, despite the worries, this ancient ritual is on the up. Now that restrictions are relaxing, is it time to get back into the heat?

‘Sweat rituals’ have an historic root that spans the breadth of the globe. But while the rest of the world has long been savvy to the health benefits of saunas, (Finland has three saunas for every five people), in the UK and Ireland, we’re just waking up to their many benefits. From deeper sleep to smoother skin and lither limbs, a new breed of LED saunas offers 360 degree rejuvenation.

While traditional saunas burn wood, new technology harnesses the power of light to create infrared saunas. Using visible and non-visible light wavelengths to create heat, infrared saunas work faster than their traditional counterparts, heating the body from the inside out, by warming your skin tissue, whereas traditional saunas just heat the air.  This means the body can flush out toxins like dirt, make-up and pollution more quickly.

Since the waves penetrate the skin more deeply than the heat of a traditional sauna, a small amount of heavy metals and drugs can be sweated out, making this detox popular with wellness fans. The heat also means better blood flow, circulation and production of collagen, giving you a glow.

This new-gen sauna has attracted devotees like Jennifer Aniston, Leonardo DeCaprio, and Oprah’s Dr Oz.  On this side of the Atlantic, there is Notting Hill’s Our Wellness, Royale Retreat in Tunbridge Wells, York Hall Day Spa in Bethnal Green, and Olympia Leisure Centre in Belfast where infrared sauna sessions are on offer.

Skin experts say even just one session a week gives your skin an MOT, deep cleaning your pores.  Make sure you get all your make-off off first and drink lots of water, then slather on the moisturiser afterwards.  

Sweat time can also soothe you and a Finnish study over two decades found that people who went to a sauna four or more times a week were 66% less likely to be diagnosed with dementia than those who went once a week or less.  The reason is believed to be a combination of improved circulation and lowered blood pressure.

Another plus is soothing aching muscles as well as sweating out toxin.  The heat also releases endorphins which can help you sleep as your muscles relax and tensions ease.  Athletes have used saunas for years to loosen tight muscles and counter the build-up of lactic acid.

The increase in heart rate may also have longer-term cardiovascular benefits. If you’re a clean freak, infrared saunas are drier than the traditional type. 

And it’s not all sweating in silence.  Helsinki boasts a Burger King Sauna where the hot box is attached to the fast-food joint and you’re encouraged to munch fries in 80°C heat while watching a 48 inch TV.

Over in Scotland is The Hot Box sauna in Loch Tay, which has a fully stocked licensed bar, as well as a DJ and karaoke room available to hire for private functions. 

Inspired by the hangout saunas in Scandinavia, the owner has created a place to socialise and promote the Danish concept of hygge which is taking pleasure and enjoyment in simple moments.

As it takes around 20 minutes of sitting in a sauna to unlock the health benefits, the idea behind this heated hedonism is to make those often mind-numbing minutes pass faster.

FOLIO | HAMILTON - PROBABLY THE BEST THEATRE THIS YEAR

I’ve seen Hamilton twice now since it arrived in the UK, and could easily watch it ten times. It is the story of America’s founding father, Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and helped to shape the foundations of the United States we know today. Aside from his face on the ten dollar bill, he’s the lesser known of the Founding Fathers, and this fantastic piece of musical theatre helps to explain why.

Alexander Hamilton was the first Secretary of the Treasury. His life is played out against the backdrop of the United States, past and present, with the white founding fathers played mostly by black actors. Hamilton was also illegitimate, an orphan, the son of a prostitute, dirt poor, and yet he became a scholar and a hero.

The score blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway and is the story of America then, as told by America now. Created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, it’s a runaway hit, incredibly popular with audiences, and acclaimed by critics as a powerful creation which has given new wings to musical theatre.

The music fuses so many styles magically, turning the tale of the USA’s founding ideals into a celebration of the melting pot of nations it became.

The impresario Cameron Mackintosh has brought the show from Broadway in New York to the Victoria Palace Theatre in London’s West End.

The author, Lin-Manuel Miranda, a former teacher, read Ron Chernow's epic biography of Alexander Hamilton on holiday, and then suggested to the historian that it was the perfect subject for a hip-hop musical. Chernow eventually agreed, and Miranda performed the opening number at poetry jam for President Obama and guests in the White House in 2009 and Hamilton fever began. Miranda also wrote the book, the music and the lyrics and even played the lead on Broadway.

This epic story about immigration, race, class, love and war examines how strands of morality don’t change and looks at power, its use and misuse. Some people have principles and live up to them; others are dishonest. And we are all flawed to a greater or lesser degree, but equally, each of us can change the world.

The founding fathers of America are all played by non-white actors, while the old establishment figures, including the king, George lll and his soldiers are white, and full of their own importance. Critics have called it ground-breaking and game-changing, a masterpiece. Jamael Westman plays Alexander Hamilton with verve and skill and makes his character’s transformation from naive teenager to powerful statesman look simple.

Hamilton’s frenemy, Aaron Burr, is played convincingly by by Giles Terera; he also narrates the production. George lll is a scene stealing role for Michael Jibson. Rachelle Ann Go as Hamilton’s wife, Eliza, and Rachel John as her sister, Angelica Schuyler also pack a punch with their soulful singing.

Winner of 11 Tony Awards including Best Musical, the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, critics are calling Hamilton the sort of musical that comes along once in a generation. To book tickets, go to www.hamiltonmusical.com The best availability is midweek, and it’s now booking up to July 2022. You can also check daily for returns.

FOOD | THE BEST FOODS TO EAT FOR HYDRATING, SUPPLE SKIN

In a 2021 edit to our FEED YOUR FACE blog, we’ve added some more faves to our original list of fab five foods – but rather than completely duplicating info here, we’ve expanded on the categories we’d listed before as well as adding some specific superfoods: so read on, readers!   

COLLAGEN

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body which is responsible for healthy joints and skin elasticity as well as maintaining the skin barrier’s function. As we age, existing collagen breaks down and it gets much more difficult for the body to produce more so this where collagen supplements come into play... Incorporating a collagen supplement into our everyday regime is an effective way to brighten our skin, keep it feeling plump and support its natural moisture levels. Research shows that collagen powders support your skin’s fibroblasts, which are fundamentally responsible for collagen and elastin production. So, in simpler terms, when you consume collagen powder, you help your body in create more collagen.   

BROCCOLI

One of the key greens mentioned above, broccoli’s superpowers are all down to its main antioxidant, ‘sulforaphane’ which reduces inflammation, eliminates and neutralises unwanted toxins and chemicals in your body and also reverses photoaging by protecting against UV-induced skin damage.  Whoah!  
Broccoli is fuelled with many other vitamins and minerals such as calcium, zinc, vitamin A and C and lutein which essentially protects your skin from becoming dry and wrinkled... It’s no wonder it’s one of the world’s leading superfoods.  

MANUKA HONEY 

Research shows that manuka honey has major benefits for the skin by balancing its pH level, preventing wrinkle formation and helping prevent infections due to its antimicrobial properties. 
It is 100 percent natural with anti-inflammatory and healing properties which will soothe your skin and reduce the redness. 

AVOCADO 

Avocados are packed with nutritional and health-boosting nutrients such as beta carotene, protein, lecithin, fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, D, and E. They’re also full of good monounsaturated fats – great to consume both internally and when applied externally in the form of avocado oil. Research has shown that not only do the collection of antioxidants and fatty acids in avocados increase collagen metabolism, they are jam-packed with youth-boosting and hydrating properties which heal dry skin AND they can protect against UV rays. Broccoli & avo salad anyone? With a squish of manuka honey dressing?  

 MATCHA 

If you’re not familiar with matcha, it’s a Japanese green tea powder made from finely powdered, dried tea leaves. The taste is slightly grassy, bitter and vegetal, but despite this, it is becoming more and more popular recently, in all forms. It’s super easy to add into lattes, smoothies or soups (and then the taste isn’t quite so acute!).  
Matcha is an all-round, antioxidant powerhouse which has excellent skin care benefits. Like spinach and other greens, it contains chlorophyll which is a natural anti-bacterial that helps rid eliminate excess oils and help eliminate bacteria as it has many anti-inflammatory properties. 

CUCUMBER 

Cucumber is 95 percent water; so if you aren’t great with your daily water intake, try getting some cucumber incorporated into your diet! But as well as the old aqua, cucumbers contain many bioactive compounds, including cucurbitacins, cucumegastigmanes, cucumerine, apigenin, orientin and vitexin. They may not sound like familiar ingredients to most, but these magic potions have been proven to mega-hydrate skin, reduce irritation and swelling and even ease pain from sunburn.  

 CILANTRO 

Cilantro is a must-have ingredient in our kitchens and, apart from its culinary features; it has numerous beneficial properties for our skin. It is a rich source of antioxidant, Vitamin A and Vitamin C which can help maintain smooth, youthful skin. It has skin-healing and hormone-balancing powers which can help reduce the aging effects of sun damage and boost collagen levels. The leaves have antioxidant, anti-fungal properties that can help clear up pigmentation or acne problems in skin of all ages. 

 BASIL 

Basil has in fact been proven to hold acne-fighting properties which stem from its strong anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Those with oily, yet dehydrated skin types think that because their skin is oily, it also cannot be dry; this is not true. It is still very crucial for those with oily skin to keep hydrated and moisturised and basil is most ideal for this skin type. Lactose-free pesto anyone?  

 APPLE CIDER VINEGAR 

Apple-cider vinegar is best known as a multi-purpose cure-all. (I blog about it here as a fab ingredient to add to water first thing or before glucose/carb-heavy meals…)  
In terms of using it topically, for skin benefits, it is often used for those with acne-prone and oily skin as it will balance the skin’s pH, chemically exfoliate in a natural way and clear skin of any nasty unwanted bacteria. This is down to the vinegar’s malic acid, a gentle chemical exfoliant and acetic acid, with awesome antibacterial properties. DON’T go to your cupboard and pour it all your face though, as it is actually very strong and can cause chemical burns so ALWAYS dilute it with water before applying to the skin.  

WILD-CAUGHT SALMON

Wild-caught and sustainably sourced cold-water fish are rich sources of healthy polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids. Nutritionists reinforce the importance of an increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids to help improve and protect the complexion and appearance of skin.  
Wild caught salmon in particular, is incredibly rich in antioxidants, one in particular named ‘astaxanthin’. This specifically gives salmon that pink/orange colour and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Research and dieticians note that this has several health benefits such as protecting the skin from UV rays and protect the heart against specific risk factors for heart disease as blood pressure. 

SQUASH 

Squash is an extremely nutritious, power-packed veggie which provides many health benefits. It contains a high amount of vitamin A, B6 and E which enhances moisture and hydration in the skin. Being full of beta-carotene and vitamin C and potassium, it helps reduce inflammation, preventing cellular damage, prevent premature skin aging and protect against sunburn and skin cancer by inhibiting free radicals.  

 SWEET POTATOES 

Sweet potatoes are yet another thoroughly nutrient-packed veggie which contain a range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, manganese and potassium. They are about 77 percent water, 20 percent carbohydrates, 3 percent fibre and 1.6 percent protein. The antioxidants will also help your skin cells look vibrant, supple and youthful by protecting them from oxidative stress. They are such an easy staple to incorporate into your diet as they can be cooked and done in so many ways which are delicious, nutritional and beneficial.  

SAINT PATRICK’s DAY OFFER FROM ULTRACEUTICALS ☘️

Keep glowing this St Patrick’s Day with an amazing offer from Ultraceuticals

With the weather as unpredictable as ever, don’t let the unsettled external elements rob your complexion of its radiance! Australian cosmeceutical skincare brand Ultraceuticals, want to help you keep your glow this St Patricks Day weekend, with an offer that your skin will simply adore!

Ultraceuticals is Australia's leading cosmeceutical brand, providing consumers with products scientifically tested to deliver real, visible results. They use proven, effective levels of ingredients to ensure optimum results that you can see. The range is a popular in-salon or spa choice amongst many skin therapists, estheticians, and medispa/salon owners.

You can buy Ultra B2 Micellar Solution (RRP €29.50, 200ML) and receive Ultra UV Protective Moisturiser SPF50 Hydrating (50ml) FREE!

Treating someone to glowing skin is the special gift we all deserve this extra-long weekend!

ULTRA B2 MICELLAR SOLUTION (RRP €29.50, 200ML)
This no-rinse micellar solution thoroughly cleanses to remove impurities and make-up on the face, lips and eyes. The 'micelles' act as a gentle magnet to capture dirt, excess sebum and make-up without stripping the skin. Featuring Ultraceuticals B² Technology (Vitamin B3 and Provitamin B5) to help hydrate, and Cucumber Extract to refresh the skin. Paraben free. Soap free. Alcohol free.

Ultra UV Protective Moisturiser SPF50 Hydrating (FREE, 50ml)

The Ultra UV Protective broad spectrum SPF 50 daily moisturiser offers high protection against UVA and UVB rays with a boost of hydration. This non-whitening, fast-absorbing formula protects the skin from harmful UVA & UVB rays to help prevent the signs of premature skin ageing. It delivers a vital blend of moisturising ingredients including shea butter, Panthenol and nicotinamide. When used daily as directed this skin anti-ageing must-have works to help prevent the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture and loss of firmness.

STOCKIST INFORMATION
Ultraceuticals is available in selected stockists nationwide, visit the store locator to find your nearest location: https://www.ultraceuticals.com/ie/store-locator

FACE | SUSTAINABLE GIFT GUIDE

As regular readers may know, we took a pledge in the past year to try as much as possible going forward to only feature products which are cruelty-free, kind to their creators and makers (at every level) and as sustainable as possible in their creation. Whilst this is a big ask and task to manage, (because really, is *any* product truly, wholly sustainable?) we do so with a genuine desire to not promote things which negatively affect people or our planet, and it is with this in mind that we have created this gift guide.  We’re creating this with Christmas in mind, (because everyone needs a little something at Christmas, right?) but we’re also trying to choose products which will work as gifts all year round. Most, if not all of our gifts are UK/Irish made. 

Have a read – and don’t forget to send us any suggestions if you have any 😊

Beauty

Proverb’s Natural Refillable Deodorant

There is definitely an increasing number of shampoo bars, metal razers, and bamboo toothbrushes popping up in bathrooms across the globe - which from an environmental perspective, can only be a good thing! However, one product that is lagging behind its counterparts in the way of sustainability is deodorant - and considering the average container only lasts around three months, that means we are throwing away countless single-use plastic deodorants every year! *sigh*

Enter, Proverb Natural Refillable Deodorant with easy-to-swap inserts that can be reused again and again. Proverb only uses natural, organic and vegan ingredients in their skincare - this means you will not find aluminium, parabens, propylene glycol, petroleums, aerosol gases, alcohol or artificial fragrances in any of their products (which is good for you and much better for the environment). In fact, all of the ingredients in Proverb’s deodorant are edible! Now that is what I call food for the skin…

Proverb skincare is available to buy at www.proverbskin.com

SEABODY Skincare

All-Irish marine-powered cosmetic and nutraceutical brand SEABODY has the perfect range for a guilt-free beauty option for 2022. This biodesigned range of skincare will supply eco-conscious skincare lovers like me with sustainable and ethical health and beauty products.

Not only are the products vegan & cruelty free but they contain proprietary marine molecules that SEABODY has isolated from 100% Irish, organic seaweed using a gentle and zero-waste process. The company makes skincare and supplements that are environmentally conscious, all-Irish and deliver exceptional results - without harming the planet!

Hydrogel Mask Cleanser -100ml €40.00

A luxurious ultra-nourishing cleansing gel, enriched with multifunctional marine glycan complexes - Phytomara™, MaraFucoidan™ and μ-Algae™, squalene, niacinamide, Vitamin E and botanical lipids, Sea Buckthorn, Blackcurrant, Chamomile Flower and Blue Tansy. Feel refreshed and rejuvenated after use.

Glycan Enrich Moisturiser - €65.00

This supercharged ultra-rich moisturiser is powered by potent multi-functional marine glycans, including time release microencapsulated MaraFucoidan™, Alginic Acid, marine antioxidant Polyphenols and vegan Omegas. Boost the skin's moisture and protect from free radicals with this super moisturiser.

AquaSurge Day Serum - €50.00

A super-hydrating daily serum that plumps the skin with the use of marine powered hydration and hyaluronic acid to quench and give the skin a healthy dewy glow. This luxurious formula will have users looking and feeling great all day long.

Overnight Elixir Serum - €70.00

The ultimate overnight tonic for the skin. This lightweight hybrid serum is enriched with microencapsulated marine actives, MaraFucoidan™ and PhytoMara™, which neutralise free radicals, support dermal cell turnover and collagen & elastin production. This formula also contains Vitamins A & E, Phytosqualane, Hyaluronic Acid and an array of vegan lipids including Algal Omegas, Jojoba, Rosehip, Grapeseed, Blackcurrant and Sea Buckthorn Oil, delivering a facial-inspired bounty of skin actives overnight. This impressive serum will have you waking up with post facial skin every morning.

Supplements: 
MOVEMENT - 30 capsules €49.00 
SEABODY Movement contains Copper which contributes to maintenance of normal connective tissues; Vitamin C which contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of bones and cartilage; and Vitamin D which contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function 

 IMMUNITY - 30 capsules €49.00 

SEABODY Immunity contains Vitamin C and Zinc which supports the function of the immune system. Vitamin C also contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress and contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. This boosting supplement also includes Biotin which contributes to a normal energy yielding metabolism, Manganese for the maintenance of normal bones and Copper to protect cells from oxidative stress. 

BEAUTY- €85.00

Designed to support the pathways of skin, nails and hair health, growth, and quality from within. Enriched in Sea Theory’s proprietary marine complex Maragen (obtained from algae) and key hair cell cycle micronutrients Biotin, Zinc, Selenium, L-Cysteine, Vitamin C and D to deliver a daily dose of vegan marine bioactives and nutrients to the hair follicle which support key pathways in the hair follicle involved in hair formation, growth, and quality. 

DIGESTION - €49.00 

SEABODY Digestion is biodesigned to support the digestive process while also containing Fucoidan, a powerful prebiotic. Fucoidan is associated with being the power behind seaweed’s strength, protecting it from various environmental stressors in the harsh ocean environment in which it flourishes. 

SEABODY is available to purchase from Seabody.com, Brown Thomas and Arnotts.

Pietro's Simone 'clean & ethical' skincare range FIERCE.

Fierce, by definition, refers to power, bravery, intensity, and measured results - and that is exactly what Pietro Simone’s new skincare range Fierce is!

We all know our skin can be problematic at times, and no matter what we do to it, it doesn’t seem to get re-hydrated, or glow, or quite rejuvenate like the way we envision or want it to. The Fierce collection looks at the skin as an individual, delivering astonishing results for a range of skin issues. It’s also sustainable and traceable which as you know are two big ticks for me!

Dewy Reboot

Pietro Simone knows skin and pushes skin’s REBOOT button with Dewy Reboot, in his new FIERCE collection. This multi-skilled serum has an advanced anti-pollutant skin shield technology that gives an intense epidermal reboot & renewal. With its 4 dimensional hyaluronic moisturising system, an ultra innovative VIT C structure with Gluthathione molecule and Collilda Gold- for a 100% stable and penetrable form of powerful stable vitamin C, and Gluthathione complex and skin barrier drone delivery system- it will wipe all your skin woes and give you radiant skin just as you want it. It is simply, where your skin’s needs are met with results!

Fierce Rescue Recover & Repair

Irritated, stressed, red skin needs a rescue formula that is quick enough to act as dialling 9-9-9-. Pietro Simone’s FIERCE-Rescue Recover & Repair aids skin instantly and is an extraordinary ally. This bio-gel recovery complex gives intense healing and comfort while balancing out an over-stressed and compromised epidermis.

Fierce Infusion

Pietro Simone’s FIERCE INFUSION targets redness and rosacea is a visionary, groundbreaking moisturising formula that contains a Skin Delivery System Technology, which delivers powerful bio-compatible ingredients to the skin barrier to rebuild and give skin microbiome optimisation.

Pure Kalahari Melon Facial Oil

Nêô Sephiri is a very exciting newcomer to the beauty scene. Founded following 10 years of extensive research, Nêô Sephiri means ‘a secret gift’ in Tswana, the language spoken on the organic-certified, South African farm where this oil is made.
Their first product launched was the Pure Kalahari Melon Facial Oil, a naturally powerful, ethical and traceable skincare that only contains one ingredient: Kalahari Melon oil.
Not only does this unique ingredient have remarkable skincare benefits but it also has extraordinary social impact potential to restore a community devastated by climate change. In fact, the brand was actually founded as a climate change intervention, meaning that sustainability really is at the foundation of their DNA.

Sugar Coated Waxing Pack

Wanting a salon-at-home vibe this year? For beauty lovers who like to remove hair, Sugar Coated's Waxing Pack is an easy-to-use solution made from just sugar syrup and water! 100% vegan, your choice of Wax, Pure Fine Talc & Soothing Mist offers a complete kit for beginners and experts alike.

SOS Serum Skincare Range

My skin always feels a little dry following winter which is no surprise with the constantly changing temperatures and harsh weather - so anything that promises to quench thirsty skin certainly merits my consideration! The award-winning range of SOS skincare, including the SOS Serum, H20 Day Cream and SPF 50 sun cream is full of soothing, healing, and moisturising properties making it the perfect choice for combatting the dull skin left by winter. It is also made in the UK, vegan and with ingredients so good, they are suitable for anyone aged over 1 month.

Solidamie

Solidamie products are highly concentrated, pH-balanced cleansing bars that are activated by water.
For those of you that have previously been skeptical of shampoo bars because of the perception that they don’t lather the same way as traditional shampoos - then this one is for you! I am obsessed with the beautifully-rich lather from these bars - which rivals any of the bottle shampoos that I have long been used to (whilst also being much more environmentally friendly!).
The bars contain salon-quality formulations and have zero soap content - meaning they won’t strip any natural oils from the hair strands.
Having products in a solid, concentrated bar form, enables the brand to reduce its water usage and carbon footprint.
And as if I couldn’t love this brand anymore - their commitment to protecting the planet and minimising the waste that ends up in our oceans means that all products are created are completely biodegradable and have no plastic in them.

Let’s Sanitise

The Covid-19 pandemic hit hard and fast and brought with it a whole new way of normal - including mask-wearing and hand sanitising - All. Of. The. Time.
If you’re like me and don’t particularly like the strong alcohol scent of most hand sanitisers, then the new ready-to-wear ‘Scent's’ range by Let’s Sanitise is for you.
With scents such as oud, watermelon, and citrus, the range comes in gel, mist, or lotion form - promising a whole sensory experience that suddenly makes the whole thing seem like less of a chore (or perhaps a more pleasurable one).
Also, with each bottle sold, Let’s Sanitise donate a bottle to community organisations, care homes, schools and charities.

Each bottle contains 75% alcohol (complying with WHO standards), is vegan friendly, and has been clinically proven to kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses. It also contains hydrating glycerol and soothing aloe vera, giving your hands a little extra luxury protection with each clean - what’s not to love?!

CARTIER DÉCLARATION
A luxuriously elegant scent, Déclaration is a true trail of passion led by an overdose of cardamom and locked up in a gorgeous streamlined bottle - a declaration of love.
After an electric and intoxicating burst of cardamom, cedarwood emerges with its unrivalled balance and plenitude. A beautiful addition to any bathroom shelf…

Montblanc Explorer Ultra Blue
Inspired by the blue hues found in nature, this rich scent has notes of bergamot, Marine Accord, and Patchouli. The perfect gift for any special man in your life (or a gift to yourself -this is definitely not male-exclusive and I love to wear this scent myself!)

GOUTAL PARIS UNE FORÊT D’OR CANDLE
This limited-edition candle conjures up the moments spent walking in the forest, surrounded by nature. I had this lit all through the festive season and am still enjoying it now. A beautiful luxurious scent that feels like taking a trip down memory lane.
Notes: Pine Branches, Orange Rind. Also, the 100% cotton wick guarantees optimal burning of around 43 to 50 hours.

ONAIE
This female-powered brand was created by two sisters and offers a wide range of stylish handmade sheepskin slippers, including a vegan range. Paying homage to the sister’s heritage, ONAIE'S products are made by a team of highly skilled craftswomen in the Polish Highlands. With sustainability at the heart of the brand, the team continually work with its suppliers to ensure ongoing ethical, social and environmental compliance.

Dolores & Rose

Finding the perfect gift can be hard and it can be even harder if you’re looking for something sustainable, ethical, vegan and luxury!
Thankfully, ethical haircare brand, Dolores & Rose make buying the perfect gift much easier. As well as being vegan and cruelty-free, their products are handmade in Yorkshire and don’t contain any nasties such as sulphates and parabens.
Their shampoo bars make the perfect start on your plastic-free hair care journey with four different types to choose from:
Purify High combines the cleansing power of nettles with peppermint’s antimicrobial properties together to reduce scalp irritation and inflammation for energised, fabulously fresh hair.
Colour Lock nourishes colour treated hair, with rooibos tea which is rich in antioxidants known to promote hair growth and rosemary to revitalise, soften and condition the hair whilst lavender helps to improve shine and resilience.
Soothe and Shine is a refreshing and zesty shampoo bar with a wonderful citrus aroma, suitable for most hair types. Turmeric, lemon and lemongrass provide antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Give your hair some sparkle and shine this spring.
Moisture Hit is an intensely nourishing shampoo bar for hair that is thirsty! Geranium for strength, chamomile to soothe and calm and olive oil esters for that hit of moisture!  A rich, nutritious shampoo bar for healthy hair.
Blonde Brilliance for beautiful blondes, all year long. Featuring lavender essential oil and ultra-violet pigments to banish brassiness and maintain beautiful blonde tones in between salon visits.

FACE | MOTHERS DAY BEAUTY & SKINCARE GIFTING IDEAS

With Mother’s Day fast approaching, the pressure is on to find the perfect present that showers your favourite lady with so much love. Mum deserves the best this year (and every year), so we have put together the ultimate Mother’s Day gift guide to help you find the perfect gift!

Skingredients Skin Good Fats (primary €55 / refill €49) Skin Good Fats is your rich moisturiser and night cream, which locks in hydration while reducing inflammation and irritation. This ceramide barrier balm works by replenishing your skin’s essential fats, vitamins and goodness to bring equilibrium to your skin.

 
NUXE  

Huile Prodigeuse Florale €33 

Treat your loved one this Mother's day to the iconic NUXE oil with seven 100% botanical precious oils is now revealing a new version with a floral and delicate scent. 
Its anti-oxidant action, “anti-pollution shield” effect* and its effect on reducing the appearance of stretch marks make it your everyday ally. Its inimitable dry oil texture is accompanied by a novel olfactory signature at Nuxe, featuring fresh and floral notes for a new moment of pleasure. 

Super Serum €68 

NUXE Super Serum stimulates the skin’s youth mechanisms for extraordinary anti-ageing effectiveness. Powered by Botanical Oils, the formula harnesses the goodness of nature to bring you revitalised, radiant skin with regular use. To extract as many of their benefits as possible, the blended Botanical Oils are fractionated to release a whole host of essential fatty acids ready for absorption. The oils are reassembled and encapsulated within thousands of micro-spheres, which quickly sink into skin for even more effectiveness. Using botanical biotechnology, natural Hyaluronic Acid is obtained and added to the luxurious blend, meaning hydration will be firmly locked in across your complexion. It wards off feelings of dryness and tightness for longer-lasting comfort.

 
Ultraceuticals  

Brightening Moisturiser Cream €61 
Ultraceuticals Brightening Moisturiser cream contains potent ingredients including Essential Fatty Acids Complex, Hyaluronic Acid and Squalene to help support the skin’s moisturisation whilst nourishing the skin’s lipid barrier. 
The creamy texture contains a natural aroma extracted from plants which leaves the skin feeling perfectly hydrated for up to 24 hours - helping to improve overall skin hydration and radiance after four weeks of use. 

South William Clinic  

Treat your Mum like the Queen she is with the perfect pampering treat from South William Clinic. From Skin Consultations & Skin Analysis, amazing HydraFacial, JetPeel Vitamin Infusion, laser hair removal, a selection of SkinCeuticals, Alumier, Environ or Obaji facials and peels, or Botox, Fillers and Skin Boosters - there is something for every Mum! Better yet, why not make it a mummy-daughter date and tag along? South William Clinic & Spa also stock over 20 of the worlds most trusted cosmeceutical skincare brands, backed by science to deliver results for their loyal clients so you’ll be sure to find something to suit all Mum’s skin needs. 

IMAGE Skincare Glow Getter Power Duo 

Proven powerhouses team up to deliver your most radiant skin ever. Give your mum the gift of that amazing glow this Mother’s Day!  
ILUMA intense brightening exfoliating powder (RRP: €41/ £35.50) 

A water-activated, exfoliating cleansing powder that gently polishes away dead skin buildup to brighten and illuminate the skin 

ILUMA intense brightening serum (RRP: €54.50/ £47) 

An illuminating serum with botanical brighteners and vitamin C that encourages a clear, even-toned complexion. Purchase at  IMAGE Stockists nationwide and online at www.imageskincare.ie 

Skin Emporio Signature HydraFacial Express (RRP: €155)  

HydraFacial is the only hydra-dermabrasion procedure that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection simultaneously, resulting in clearer, more beautiful skin with no discomfort or downtime. The treatment is soothing, moisturising, non-invasive and non-irritating. The Signature treatment detoxifies the skin, removes dead skin cells, extract any debris and provides long-lasting hydration and essential nutrient support that protects and rebuilds collagen levels. Available at the Skin Emporio Skin Bar in Jervis Shopping Centre Dublin. Vouchers available for purchase at www.skinemporio.com  

This Works Baby Sleep Bedtime Ritual Gift Set (RRP: €31/ £25) 

Give the gift of sleep this Mother’s Day with This Works Baby Sleep, natural sleep range is especially for babies and children to help create a happy and healthy bedtime routine. Start off bedtime in the best way by establishing a calm, relaxed environment at bedtime. Helping your baby to feel cosy and comfortable is an essential part of any bedtime ritual and encourages peaceful sleep. 

Contains: baby sleep pillow spray 75ml  

baby  sleep gentle wash  50ml   

baby sleep massage oil 50ml  

baby sleep bottom balm 50ml 

Dermalogica proskin60® treatment 

Want to give your Mum the best skin shes ever had or maybe the treat is for yourself just because you deserve it? Our ultimate 60-minute treatment is customised to target all of your skin needs and to leave your skin radiant and glowing. It incorporates exfoliating Hydra Dermabrasion to improve texture and tone, LED light therapy to brighten and boost collagen production and highly advanced professional-grade actives for deep treatment. Experience dramatic results in a secluded and relaxing environment. 

Find your nearest store at https://www.dermalogica.ie/pages/store-locator 

SEABODY 

Give the gift of ethical and high efficacy beauty products to the mother figure in your life. SEABODY now have gift bundles to cater to your every beauty and wellness need. 

SEABODY EBB AND FLOW 

WAS €120.00 NOW €100.00 

Hydrate in the morning for a fresh & dewy glow throughout the day & boost collagen and elastin production overnight with this ultimate skincare duo. 

Day Serum 30ML ℮ 1.01FL OZ 

Night Serum 30ML ℮ 1.01FL OZ 

SEABODY WAVE 

WAS €150.00 NOW €130.00 

Taking a dual approach this bundle contains our deeply hydrating moisturiser combined with our biodesigned beauty supplement for an intense wave of nourishment. 

Glycan Enrich Moisturiser 50ML ℮ 1.69FL OZ 

Beauty Supplement contains 60 capsules – 2 months' supply 

SEABODY SEA TO SELF 

Take care of your intrinsic & extrinsic beauty & wellness with this nourishing package. Each product has been biodesigned with SEABODY’s proprietary marine molecules from sea to self. 

Glycan Enrich Moisturiser 50ML ℮ 1.69FL OZ 

Aquasurge Day Serum 30ML ℮ 1.01FL OZ 

Overnight Elixir Serum 30ML ℮ 1.01FL OZ 

CND™ Ready Collection RRP: €14.95Treat your mum to a dreamy manicure this Mother's Day! CND™ Party Ready is a collection that celebrates a renewed outlook on life and all that is to be rejoiced. This range of effortless yet glam shades embraces a relaxed approach without compromising on style. Available in and CND™ VINYLUX™ Long Wear Polish, the versatile hues unite casual with elegance to create effortless looks to take you from low-key gatherings to a fancy night out. The Party Ready collection includes Glitter Sneakers, a shimmering gold; Signature Lipstick, a deep, dramatic red; Silk Slip Dress, a universal pale pink; White Button Down, a warm winter white; Statement Earrings, a glittery mauve and High Waisted Jeans, a deep navy.

FITNESS & HEALTH | HEAL YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH FOOD

Another diet? What if you healed your relationship with food instead? This week we hand over the blog to expert Briana McAteer who works with individuals to heal their relationship with food and eating habits.

For some of you, another new year means another new diet. Maybe this diet will solve your problem with food!  What if, instead of a new diet, this year you actually healedyour relationship with food?

Have you ever considered that maybe food isn’t the problem?  Consider, the more we obsess, stress over and scrutinise about what we’re eating, the more we miss the point.

So what’s the point we’re missing?  The reason we find it difficult to follow the diet, or stop snacking between meals, or say ‘no’ to food when we’re not hungry, is not because we haven’t found the best, most sustainable diet yet, it’s because of how we relate to food.

Our relationship with food is determined by how we behavetowards food. Changing our meal plan won’t change our behaviour. Your behaviour towards food and therefore your relationship with food, changes when you understand what you’re using food for.

If following diets and meal plans didn’t work for your mother in the 1970s or ‘80s and it hasn’t worked for you in the ‘90s, ‘00s or ‘10s, why on God’s earth do we think it will work now in the 2020s?!?

What I want you to know is– and really take a minute to hear this –  not sticking to a diet doesn’t mean ANYTHING ABOUT YOU!  A number of “failed” diets in your past doesn’t mean anything about how competent you are or how worthy you are, nor does it say anything about what’s possible for you.

Diets haven’t worked because we have been focusing on whatwe eat or when we eat, rather than why we eat.  We’ve been conditioned to believe if we eat different food and follow the newest diet plan life will be better.  But we KNOW what to eat.  We know eating more vegetables is good for us and eating a bucket of ice-cream – not great.

We don’t need to be told what to eat.  We need to understand why we feel controlled by food.  We all know how horrible it feels to commit to no snacks after dinner, only to find yourselfelbow-deep in ice-cream…again!  

Instead of tracking, weighing, and counting food, we need to understand why we overeat when we’re tired or our kids are screaming.  When the “Why” goes unquestioned, it runs the show. It’s subconscious. One minute you are a sane woman dutifully sticking to her diet, and the next minute you’re hiding the evidence of how much you’ve eaten.  Seriously, how did that happen? Now you feel horrible. You say horrible things about yourself and believe something is very wrong with you.

THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH YOU. YOU’RE NOT BROKEN. YOU DON’T NEED FIXED.

It makes complete sense you would over eat ice-cream.  Everything is working perfectly when you zone out eating Ben and Jerry’s.  If you’re searching the cupboard every 20 minutes, you’re doing exactly what your brain is designed to do. Your brain has created the habit of using food to solve the feeling of uncomfortable emotions.  Given the way the brain works – this makes TOTAL SENSE.  Emotions can be painful and the brain is designed to avoid pain.  Food is pleasurable.  So instead of feeling negative emotions we eat.

Nothing has gone wrong; it just doesn’t serve us now.  Until we learn to rewire the habit and process our emotions without turning to food, trying to change what’s on your plate (or bowl) will continue to be an infuriating and desperate merry-go-round.

A habit consists of: A trigger, a behaviour, and a reward. The trigger is an emotion, which is caused by a THOUGHT. The behaviour is eating ice cream. The reward is dopamine. 

For example:

Trigger (an emotion caused by a thought):  Thought-- I hate the way my boss spoke to me today. Emotion-- Unappreciated. Resentful.

Behaviour: Eating lots of ice cream

Reward: Dopamine (FYI: dopamine is a great way to cover up crappy feelings)

To identify your triggers, the next time you overeat, ask yourself these questions:

1.       What was going on? (events/ circumstances)

2.       What was I thinking about what was going on? (write down all of your thoughts)

3.       When I believed those thoughts, how did I feel? (use a 1-word emotion)

The answer to those questions is the answer to your question, “Why do I feel so out of control around ice-cream?” When you’re triggered, your brain’s main priority is to avoid feeling pain by seeking the pleasure food creates.  That’s why these cravings feel so urgent.  But eating ice cream is only a temporary plaster. When the bowl is empty the emotion and the problem still exist.

To finally sustain the behaviour you want around food, you must learn to process emotions effectively so you don’t needto turn to food. Habitually processing your emotions, instead of mindlessly eating, will eventually rewire your brain and create a new habit so that food is no longer a problem. 

Then you will have healed your relationship with food. 

To learn how to process your emotions effectively, ditch the diet and start the process of healing your relationship with food, book your free consultation briana_mcateer@hotmail.com

FASHION | AND THE OSCAR FOR THE BEST DRESS GOES TO...

As Holywood (and millions at home) prepare for the biggest awards night of the year, I decided to take a look back at some of the most memorable dresses to ever grace The Oscars' famous redcarpet. From Gwyneth Paltrow in that Ralph Lauren to Lupita Nyong’o in Prada here are my faves... 

First up, in the 1999 awards Gwyneth Paltrow chose this beautiful soft pink taffeta gown by Ralph Lauren. Paltrow picked up the award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Shakespeare in Love’ and accessorised her look with stunning Harry Winston jewels. The look divided commentators but it was so perfect for her WASP-y shape and personality at the time. And here at The F Words it will always be a classic.

1999 - Gwyneth Paltrow in Ralph Lauren

The 1954 Academy Awards saw Audrey Hepburn shine in this stunning gown by Hubert de Givenchy - who went on to dress the talented actress for seven of her later films. The dress featured a gorgeous floral pattern finished with a skinny belt. Hepburn won ‘Best Actress’ for her role in ‘Roman Holiday’.

1954 - Audrey Hepburn in Givenchy

Beautiful Spanish actress Penelope Cruz wowed in her dazzling, blush feathered Versace gown in 2007. She looked absolutely flawless in this dress which oozed opulence and immediately earned a place as one of the most iconic dresses to ever grace the Oscars' red carpet.

Emma Stone slayed in this dramatic Giambattista Valli gown back in 2012. The strawberry red/fuchsia colour against her skin and hair colour was bold, add to that a statement bow, a perfect updo and a Louis Vuitton clutch and, voila! There is nothing we don’t love about Emma’s look!

Also making a statement was Halle Berry in her dress for the 2002 Academy Awards, where she took away the gong for Best Actress, and wrote history by being the first black woman to do so. I loved this Ellie Saab dress at the time, but not so much now - however I thought I would include it here anyway, because it was so of its time. With hindsight, the dress was super daring and wowed onloookers;  plus she deserved all the attention that night in this show-stopping gown with its satin train, sheer top and some modesty-covering embroidery. 

Cate Blanchett looked every inch the Holywood Queen as she stepped onto the 2014 Academy Awards' red carpet. She paired the beautifully embellished gown by Armani Prive with subtle makeup and tousled waves; creating some super styling waves of her own. 

Back to red again - and the year 2013 when Jennifer Anniston wore the colour of love as she stepped onto the red carpet with then beau Justin Theroux.  The strapless Valentino creation was simple yet glamorous with its romantic red hue and full bodied skirt.

The world fell in love with relatively new actress Jennifer Lawrence back in 2013 (lucky for some!) when she tripped and fell in this stunning Dior gown; (shame some are falling out of love with her of late, for showing off a bit of leg, but hey - that's a whole other blog).  The intricate design and daring silhouette looked incredible on her beautiful, youthful and athletic frame, so it was no surprise that her Oscar gown knocked her right to the top of all the best dressed lists - and lists of actresses that designers wanted to dress. She stuck with Dior for 2014 though (when she fell AGAIN!)... 

I have saved my (so far) all-time favourite Oscars look for the 2014 awards and Lupita Nyong’o's powder blue PRADA dress, which totally stole the show at her first time nomination for her role in Twelve Years a Slave. The gown, with its stunning floaty fabric, soft tone and plunging neckline will go down in red carpet history. And PS - her green dress at the Cannes Film Festival is one of my favourites on that red carpet too. Girl got style! 

FACE | NIMUE JOINS BEST IN CLASS FOR SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY & OFFERS REFILL SYSTEM

Gorgeous brand Nimue – which I have come to know and love over the past year - is one of very few skincare brands globally to offer a refill system (you’ll remember I wrote about another personal fave, Irish brand Skingredients, doing the same a few blogs back). This unique feature ensures that consumers only have to pay for Nimue’s elegant and premium packaging once and thereafter can save up to 30% on buying the refills. Not only good for your pocket but also much better for the environment.

This feature is currently available on Nimue’s top sellers: cleansers, conditioners, exfoliating enzyme, active lotion, and active gel.

Nimue Cleansing Gel - €43.00/£36.00, Refill - €31.00/£26.00

One of Nimue’s biggest sellers, the Cleansing Gel is a soap-free, 2-in-1 gel cleanser that gently removes dirt and debris, the glycolic acid provides a light exfoliation to cleanse pores and clear away dead skin cells. This impressive gel cleanser helps to reveal a more fresh, youthful, and radiant skin underneath.

Nimue Conditioner - €46.00/£38.00, Refill - €28.00/£34.00

This Glycolic Conditioner is a specially formulated skin treatment that stimulates exfoliation, refreshes, and clarifies the skin for a fresh, healthy appearance.

Nimue Exfoliating Enzyme - €49.00/£41.00, Refill - €38.00/£32.00

An enzymatic exfoliator that is non-irritating and non-abrasive, gently removing dead skin cells and promoting cell renewal. The results are impressive, and skin is left smooth and clean without any dryness. The effect is just as polished as with a conventional exfoliator – if not more so – without the irritation. Ideal for those with uneven or congested skin, it gently tackles all those lumps, bumps, and whiteheads. Sensitive skins who don’t get on with scrubs should also find it more than tolerable, and it can be used up to three times a week.

Active Lotion - €47.00/£56.00, Refill - €36.00/£43.00 

A concentrated rejuvenating treatment that stimulates cell renewal through exfoliation, resulting in softer, smoother skin with a youthful, radiant glow.

FACE | IMAGE VITAL C COMES OF AGE AND CELEBRATES EIGHTEEN YEARS!

This month IMAGE Skincare are celebrating the range that started it all! It’s one thing to create a vitamin C collection. It’s another to perfect this superhero ingredient with formulas that check all the boxes: potency, stability and incredible results on all skin types. Starting with just four core VITAL C products to treat her own skin concerns, founder Janna Ronert did just that, launching a bestseller beloved for its universal soothing and nourishing benefits and a uniquely fresh-squeezed scent.

Over 18 years later, VITAL C has become a staple in tens of millions of professional treatments and at-home regimens around the world. From a five-star serum and first-of-its-kind enzyme masque, this cult-favourite collection continues to redefine what vitamin C can do for the skin.

The Vital C collection is all about putting back into the skin what it needs to be healthy, nourished, radiant and glowing: in a word, replenishing. Join us during VITAL C Month this January as we celebrate the iconic collection, the community it’s built and the diverse skin that loves it!

CORE FOUR VITAL C PRODUCTS 

VITAL C hydrating facial cleanser 177ml (RRP: €37/ £32)

This creamy, hydrating cleanser gently removes makeup and impurities while quenching skin with essential daily vitamins and antioxidants. It infuses the skin with vitamins A, C and E to boost radiance as it cleanses.

 VITAL C hydrating repair crème 59ml (RRP: €81.50/ £70)

This luxurious crème quenches and soothes the skin. Essential vitamins A and C provide ultra-nourishment while revitalizing texture and supporting elasticity and firmness. A blend of hyaluronic acid and ceramides helps to lock in moisture and soothe sensitivity. 

VITAL C hydrating enzyme masque 59ml (RRP: €44.50/ £38)

This naturally brightening vitamin C masque works in minutes to give skin a radiant, healthy-looking glow. With two nourishing forms of vitamin C and fruit enzyme exfoliants, it gently dissolves dry, dull skin buildup, revealing brighter, more even-toned skin. Antioxidants and vitamins help to nourish and hydrate the skin. Leaves skin smoother with a renewed look of clarity.

VITAL C hydrating anti-aging serum 50ml (RRP: €76/ £65.50)

An award-winner and bestselling product loved by all skin types. This high-potency serum softens the appearance of wrinkles, supports skin elasticity and fights environmental damage. Hyaluronic acid helps to lock in hydration and supports the look of plump, bouncy skin. It contains multiple forms of vitamin C to help brighten the skin and fight visible signs of dullness and fatigue.

FACE: VALENTINES BEAUTY YOU’LL LOVE

If you’re in love with beauty and skincare, or just looking after yourself ahead of a romantic date, look no further as this week we bring you some truly loveable items to invest in ahead of Valentines Day! (And PS don’t forget you can gift-to-self if you’re single! Actually what are we saying? You can gift-to-self at any time!!)

 NEW Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Cream

£35, €39.55 for 50ml jar, £30/€35 for 50ml refill, at Cultbeauty.co.uk

An extension on Glow Recipe’s Plum Serum, this moisturiser is a revolutionary launch for the brand as it is its first ever refillable product. The cream, which is packed full of Hyaluronic Acid, comes in a glass jar which you keep, and the refillable recyclable pods can be popped in and out for when you run low and bought again. Sustainability and diversity is a huge focus for the brand always, and so this new launch sets the tone for 2022.

NEW OLEHENRIKSEN Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturizer 

£40, €52 will be available from Boots.com and in store – launched  4th Jan

This entirely new ‘Strength’ range from OLEHENRISKEN has just launched this month, and the Strength Moisturizer is the first launch in the range. This moisturiser strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier in 8 weeks and its superpower is keeping skin hydrated all day. Plus, this is OLEHENRISKSEN’s first glass jar (being so easy to recycle) and the lid is also created from post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials.

OLEHENRIKSEN Cold Plunge Pore Mask

£31/ €40 at Boots.com

Treat your skin to an exhilarating, refreshing experience. Inspired by the “cold plunge” part of a Scandinavian sauna cycle, this cooling clay mask detoxifies, controls oil and reduces the look of pores. The innovative formula harnesses the power of alpine willowherb and snow lotus—antioxidant-rich botanicals that have adapted to thrive in extreme cold—to soothe, mattify and refine pores.

Eve Lom Rescue Mask

£55/ €75 at SpaceNK, LookFantastic, Feelunique, Liberty, Net-a-Porter. Also available at Harrods + now Selfridges, John Lewis, Harvey Nichols, Next, Fenwick, QVC, Elys, Mankind, Arnotts/Brown Thomas (Ireland), Frasers/Flannels 

Clear up congested skin and brighten a dull complexion with this unique mask formulated to deeply clean the skin and help alleviate problems such as blotchiness, breakouts, fatigue and morning-after puffiness, helping to lift the complexion and leave the skin healthy and radiant.

Eve Lom Moisture Mask

£65 / €85 at John Lewis, LookFantastic, Feelunique, Liberty, Net-a-Porter. Also available at SpaceNK, Harrods + now Selfridges, Harvey Nichols, Next, Fenwick, QVC, Elys, Mankind, Arnotts/Brown Thomas (Ireland), Frasers/Flannels 

Reveal brighter, hydrated, younger looking skin and give complexion an intense hydration boost which actively replenishes and rehydrates for long-lasting radiance. Created as a response to deeply dull, dehydrated skin, this nourishing mask is an advanced complex of skin quenchers which work to swiftly restore the skin’s moisture balance and help to defend against future dryness.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops

£31, €35.03 at CultBeauty.co.uk

A favourite skincare-makeup hybrid loved by makeup artists for giving skin a subtle glow while also caring for it. No need to choose between your serum and your highlighting base, with this unique serum you can have both at once. While strobing skin, Watermelon Dew Drops delivers vitamins and hydration to make complexion truly glow from the inside, out.

Eve Lom Kiss Mix

£16, €20 at SpaceNK, Harrods, Selfridges, John Lewis. Also available at Harvey Nichols, LookFantastic, Feelunique, Liberty, Net-a-Porter, Next, Fenwick, QVC, Elys, Mankind, Arnotts/Brown Thomas (Ireland), Frasers/Flannels 

A pocket-size 2-in-1 beauty hero, helping you protect your pout and keep lips soft and supple at the same time. This nourishing balm helps restore chapped and damaged lips, while simultaneously protecting them from damaging environmental factors. Plus, the beeswax base locks in moisture and gives a subtle pearlescent shine that can be used alone or as a protective coating over a favourite lip colour.

Valentine’s Glam:

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer

£27, €32 at SpaceNK, Harrods, Selfridges and LOOKFANTASTIC

Customise your effortless look with this iconic 5-in-1 concealer, corrector, foundation, contour, and highlighter for custom, buildable full coverage. With a luminous natural finish and long-lasting wear, the product is available in 16 shades, designed to enhance and disappear into the skin and give you a natural, yet flawless base.

Kevyn Aucoin Indecent Mascara

£22, €25 at SpaceNK, Harrods, Selfridges and LOOKFANTASTIC

Perfect for healthy yet eye-catching lashes, the new mascara really nourishes as it enlivens. The formula is enriched with nourishing ingredients which help to promote growth, density and length. 

Kevyn Aucoin Unforgettable Lipstick

£24, €26 at SpaceNK, Selfridges, Harrods and LOOKFANTASTIC

Get full coverage and precise application with this weightless lipstick that feels velvety and comes in a selection of flattering textures. Plus, the lip colour is also enriched with moisturising esters and emollient oils to keep the pout feeling supple.

Emolyne The Complete Kit

£45,€52 at Emolyne.com 

Channel your inner beauty queen by matching your lips to your nails with this complete set made to compliment any skin tone. Including the Metamorphosis Velvet Semi-Matte Lipstick, Metamorphosis Velvet Long-Wear Lip Definer and Metamorphosis Gel Lacquer in gorgeous bold shade Port Elizabeth.

FARAWAY PLACES | MAGICAL MALTA - by Letitia Fitzpatrick

Malta is a fabulous, sunny island, rich in history, boasting lively towns, great nightlife, and a busy calendar of cultural events. For such a small country, it packs a lot in, with beaches, harbour towns and stunning sights to keep you happy. There’s year-round sunshine, most of the friendly locals speak English, the food is very tasty, and you can fly from Dublin.

Malta is an archipelago in the Mediterranean in South Europe, and only the three largest islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino are inhabited. The official language is Maltese, with English the second official language. The islands have been invaded by the Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, French and British, giving them a wealth of culture and awesome architecture.

VALLETTA

The capital city of Malta is an architectural gem, small, easy to get around, with delightful cafes and restaurants, perfect for sitting outside and people- watching or admiring its beautiful buildings.

The city is Baroque in character, and is noted for its fortifications, palaces, gardens and churches. Make sure you visit St John’s Co-Cathedral with a stunning signed work by Caravaggio depicting the beheading of St John the Baptist. There’s a fascinating film about Caravaggio’s scandalous life and amazing work down in the crypt.

The National Museum of Fine Arts is a Rococo palace dating back to the late 1570s, and the delightful Manoel Theatre, built in 1731, and which reminded me of Belfast’s Grand Opera House, is one of the oldest working theatres in Europe.

MDINA:

is a medieval fortified city in the northern region of Malta, and it’s well worth a visit. The city is still confined within its walls, and has a population of just under 300. It’s one of the main tourist attractions in Malta.

GOZO

It’s easy to take a ferry to the neighbouring island of Gozo. It is rich in historic locations, such as the Ġgantija temples, which, along with the other Megalithic Temples of Malta, are among the world's oldest free-standing structures. You can catch a hop-on, hop-off tourist bus and get around in a day. Gozo is considered one of the top diving destinations in the Mediterranean and a centre for water sports.

FESTIVALS:

Valletta is the scene of the Maltese Carnival, held in February leading up to Lent. The Valletta International Baroque Festival is held every January.

The predominant religion in Malta is Catholicism. There are more than 360 churches in Malta, Gozo, and Comino, or one church for every 1,000 residents. The parish church is the architectural and geographic focal point of every Maltese town and village, and its main source of civic pride. This civic pride manifests itself in spectacular fashion during the local village festas, which mark the day of the patron saint of each parish with marching bands, religious processions, special Masses, fireworks and other festivities.

BEACHES

Another big draw is Malta’s coastline. It’s quite rugged, with rocky coves and a few sandy spots. The biggest beach is at Mellieha Bay, while resorts like Qawra and Bugibba have flat rocks and platforms where you can stretch out in the sun and soak up those rays. Qawra (pronounced aura) is a charming, purpose-built resort in north-east Malta. Set around scenic St Paul’s Bay, with luxury hotels along the seafront, it works as a vibrant summer destination, and is also a stress-free place to enjoy a winter break. It blends seamlessly into Buggiba, its bolder, brasher neighbour, which has a pretty harbour and a waterpark along its modern promenade. Holidays to Paradise Bay focus on relaxation, and there’s a Blue Flag beach surrounded by miles of sweeping countryside.

WEATHER

Malta has mild, warm winters (16 celsius during the day) and hot summers, hotter in the inland areas. Rain falls mainly in autumn and winter, with summer being generally dry. The average yearly temperature is around

23 °C (73 °F) during the day and 15.5 °C (59.9 °F) at night.

DAY CRUISE

Get away from the main island of Malta in search of sea and sunshine on a boat tour from Bugibba. Visit the Crystal Lagoon, followed by the Blue Lagoon on Comino for swimming and snorkeling. From here, continue to Gozo Island, where you have the choice of enjoying free time at your leisure or taking a tour of the island's historic sites before cruising back to Bugibba via the Santa Maria pirate caves.

NEON NIGHTLIFE.

Sliema on the east coast used to be a fishing village and is now best-known for its wine bars and fancy restaurants. If you wander along the promenade, you’ll come to St Julian’s, an upmarket town, with a generous variety of bars and clubs, including a thriving gay scene. The music keeps going until the early hours, and the cafes are perfect for breakfast the morning after.

FOOD

Maltese cuisine shows strong Sicilian and Italian influences as well as English, Spanish and French flavours. A number of grapes are endemic to Malta. There is a strong wine industry, with significant production of wines using native grapes.

FLIGHTS

Ryanair fly to and from Malta from Dublin three times a week (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, all year round) and the flight is just under four hours.

ACCOMMODATION

You can book package tours to Malta, or book flights and accommodation, which is what I did. I searched booking.com and found lots of reasonably priced hotels of a high standard. I chose the Intercontinental Hotel in St Julian’s, which cost £85 a night per person sharing a double or twin room, plus breakfast which was excellent. My friend and I also ate dinner in the hotel twice and the food was very good.

COVID VACCINATIONS:

At the time of writing in January 2022, you need to show a vaccination certificate, and complete a Public Health Travel Declaration Form and the online Passenger Locator Form. You must show both forms to airline officials on departure and health officials stationed at the Terminal Temperature Screening Points when you arrive in Malta. The forms should be completed before departure. For further information about entry requirements visit the Maltese Government website at www.health.government.mt as well as the www.nidirect.com site

So if this all sounds appealing, pack your suntan lotion, swimming gear, and perhaps an underwater camera to capture the mesmerising Maltese sea life.

TV: THE TOURIST

The Tourist (reviewed by Letitia Fitzpatrick)

Local hero, Jamie Dornan is on our small screens in an original television thriller which has given the BBC a New Year hit.

The actor from Holywood in County Down shot to stardom as the sadistic billionaire in the Fifty Shades of Grey films, played a terrifying serial killer in The Fall, which co-starred Gillian Anderson, and more recently, starred in the movie Wild Mountain Thyme.

Sir Kenneth Branagh's semi-autobiographical film Belfast has earned Dornan Golden Globe and Critics' Choice nominations - and potentially BAFTA and Oscar nods, too.

Now, he is very compelling in The Tourist. Set in the Australian outback, it has more twists and turns than an Aussie highway, with car chases thrown in for good measure, and a hero who loses his memory.

It’s the latest offering from successful writers Harry and Jack Williams who penned The Missing, Baptiste, Liar and Angela Black.

Dornan is trying to work out why he was chased by a truck which runs him off the road, as he drives along a deserted highway. However, he seems more resigned than shocked by this. Next thing we know, he wakes up in hospital and can’t remember who he is.

It’s not a very serious thriller which brightens up our screens in these dark times. The cop investigating Dornan’s case is a rookie, Helen, played convincingly by Danielle McDonald.

As Dornan tries to piece together his identity, it becomes clear that he’s not just your average tourist in Oz. And the viewer wonders if he’s a good guy in the wrong place at the time, or a criminal with a dark past. The plot thickens, in a funny and stylish way, as the relationship between Dornan and the policewoman develops.

The series also stars Shalom Brune-Franklin, an English-American actress known for playing Private Maisie Richards in the BBC series Our Girl, Umm Khulthum in The State and Aoife in the Australian series Doctor Doctor. She starred as DC Chloe Bishop in all seven episodes of BBC One's Line of Duty, series six (2021).

For Dornan, playing someone who doesn't know themselves was a unique experience, which he describes as a journey of discovery. He found it weird not to have a clear back story and that also attracted him to the script.

All six episodes of The Tourist are available on the BBC iPlayer.