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Hotel Amano: stay in the heart of the action with this bougie new pad in London’s Covent Garden
In a nutshell: Around the corner from London’s Drury Lane, Hotel Amano in Covent Garden offers a pre-theatre sophistication with an encore of late-night decadence. Its location is hard to beat if you’re a culture vulture, with the West End and all the entertainment, shopping, drinking and dining it has to offer right on your doorstep. The neighbourhood Hotel Amano Covent Garden is tucked right behind the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which means you’re also a stone’s throw from some of London’s cultural and historical heavyweights. Take a stroll along Embankment before ducking into Somerset House or the Courtauld to admire the latest art exhibitions. From there you can check out the Strand on your way to Trafalgar Square, taking your pick of any number of afternoon teas at the Ritz, the Savoy, the Langham or the Dorchester. Work up an appetite before an evening of dinner and the theatre with a walk around Hyde Park, perhaps stopping to admire Buckingham Palace on your way back. The vibe Despite being smack bang in the heart of London’s flashy, bustling West End, the Amano’s facade is surprisingly dignified. Without the guests walking in and out with their luggage, you could confuse the interior with the entrance of some ultra-exclusive spa. Impressive, yes, but it also feels as though designers Woods Bagot missed a trick, particularly given the hotel’s restaurant, Penelope, is based around the vibrant Israeli-Spanish heritage of Amano co-founder Ariel Schiff. Instead, rooms are business-like and modern, all grey walls and grey felt headboards, with dark wood accents and gold fixtures, along with unremarkable prints of moody women on the walls. For an extra injection of glitz, in the Goldy rooms you’re also treated to a freestanding gold bathtub; bath salts and oils are provided (though some bubble bath wouldn’t go amiss). The rooftop terrace and restaurant are more of the same – classy and elegant, yes, but somewhat lacking in character and originality. Service is mixed. While the reception desk is warm, helpful and efficient, the rooftop staff take some time to attend to a drink spillage, after not one but two requests for napkins. Yet the restaurant team are a delight, with maître d’ Paolo a warm and effusive personality who makes the experience of dining at Penelope feel like you’re visiting a friend’s home. Bed and bath The Hotel Amano has 141 rooms, including its five Goldy suites. Sizes range from “Cosy” to “Roomy Plus” – the former is certainly compact, but still comes with a queensize bed. All the other rooms, from “Comfy” to “Roomy”, have a king bed, coffee and tea station, and plenty of smart storage space. Bathrooms are kitted out with full-size toiletries, including a delightful exfoliating handwash from German brand Daluma. The floor-to-ceiling windows in the corner-set Goldy bedrooms are impressive, sure, but you have to edge around the bathtub in order to close the curtains (the window isn’t made from privacy glass, so unless you’re planning on flashing the cast of Frozen, we’d advise on doing so). Food and drink Penelope has potential to become the crown jewel of the Amano Covent Garden, perhaps after a touch of fine-tuning. Here, the dark and moody decor contributes to the decadent atmosphere set by much of the menu, put together by Shimon Peretz, head chef at Amano’s Mani restaurant in Berlin, and Penelope’s executive chef Fezile Ozalgan, formerly of Barboun, Shoreditch. Start with a pre-dinner cocktail – the intriguing Psichee with tequila, mezcal and squid ink, or the smoky, spicy Pasión de Malaga – before perusing the restaurant’s excellent wine selection. The small plates are a little hit and miss, but winners include the tuna ceviche and rough taboon bread served with green harissa, spicy yogurt and whipped cod’s roe. The main dishes of chicken shawarma with mujaddara and the hake with haricot beans are remarkably salty, which is a shame as both (small) portions are well-cooked. At £25 and £32 a pop, you’d expect a slightly more generous serving. We’re won over by the sinfully rich baklava cheesecake, with its crisp pastry soaked in honey syrup and generous scattering of pistachios. You can find more cheesecake on the rooftop bar menu, along with Israel-style meze, snacks, and mains including a Hereford sirloin, whole seabass and paella. The compact but inventive cocktail list, along with extensive wines, champagne and digestifs, is also available, while the staff are happy to whip up an off-menu (but classic) espresso martini. Breakfast is served in the same space as Penelope, with either a classic continental spread of pastries, breads, fresh fruit, yogurt and cheeses, or hot options including a brilliantly spicy shakshuka (a single egg, as opposed to the plural baked “eggs” advertised on the menu), buttermilk pancakes with figs and orange cream, or smashed avocado and poached eggs. Public areas If you’re looking for a hotel with built-in entertainment, you’re likely to be disappointed. The Amano Covent Garden doesn’t offer amenities outside of the rooftop bar and restaurant, so you’re out of luck if you prefer your hotels to include a spa or gym. But, with so much of London’s best bits on offer within walking distance, it’s hard to imagine you’d feel bored during your stay. Nuts and bolts Room count: 141 rooms including five “Goldy” suites. Freebies: Tea and coffee station, bottle of water. Wifi: Free. Disability access: Accessible rooms come with large wet rooms with benches, while the corridors and lifts can accommodate wheelchairs. Pet policy: Dogs are welcome, with a £10 per night fee per pet. Service animals are exempt from fees. Bottom line Best thing: The location, which is about as close to the action as you could want while still offering a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, and the glamour and fun of the restaurant. Worst thing: For the prices, the dinner menu needs a little work, while the decor could also use a rethink to make it feel more in-keeping with its excellent location. Perfect for: A sophisticated stay for well-heeled couples, or for those looking to be within easy reach of London’s culture while in town on business. Not right for: Families, or those who like to include a morning workout or spa treatment in their hotel stay. Instagram from: The rooftop terrace, either with the surprisingly real-looking floral arrangements in the background, or views towards the South Bank. Read more on best London hotel reviews Read More The best luxury hotels in London for a stylish city break The best spa hotels in London for pampering and indulgence Best boutique hotels in London 2022 How a corner of Whitehall became a playground for the super-rich The Landmark London review Where to watch this year’s Notting Hill Carnival
2023-11-15 16:56
Breathe easy with up to 23% off Dyson air purifiers ahead of Labor Day
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EA Pulls FIFA Games From Digital Stores
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Save $99 on the powerful and portable 2021 iPad Mini
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Add Another New Nap Dress To Your Collection — You Can Never Have Too Many
Although the nap dress hit its stride during the summer of 2020, we're still obsessed with its nonchalant qualities. The flowy, Victorian-meets-minimalist-chic frock formerly understood as a nightgown is now accepted as daywear. Now, it's a viral investment worth making and a style that is needed within the wardrobe of every dress fanatic.
2023-07-27 23:29
9 arthritis myths we all need to stop believing
Many people assume arthritis is just an ‘old person’s’ disease, and an inevitable part of getting older. Try telling that to the parents of toddlers impacted by the condition, or the 20-somethings living with it. The suggestion that it only troubles the elderly is one of many myths associated with arthritis, which affects around 10 million people in the UK. “One in six people live with the pain, fatigue, and disability arthritis can cause. The impact can be huge, affecting the ability to work, care for family, move free from pain and live independently,” says Deborah Alsina, chief executive at the arthritis support charity Versus Arthritis, speaking to mark Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Week (September 11–17). “There are many misconceptions when it comes to understanding arthritis, but by shining a light on the reality of living with arthritis day in, day out, we can help grow understanding and inspire people to take action.” Dr Amara Ezeonyeji, consultant rheumatologist from The Lister Hospital in London (part of HCA Healthcare UK), adds: “Arthritis is a general term that refers to a group of over 100 different types of inflammatory joint diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system. The most common symptom of arthritis is joint pain, but it can also cause stiffness, swelling, and decreased joint mobility.” She says the most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis (OA), often associated with wear and tear of the joints. Other common types are rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints; psoriatic arthritis, a type of arthritis associated with the skin condition psoriasis; ankylosing spondylitis which primarily affects the spine and can lead to fusion of the vertebrae; and gout, which is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints and often affects the big toe. “There are several myths about arthritis that are often repeated. It’s important to dispel these to promote an accurate understanding of arthritis, and to encourage those affected to seek appropriate medical care and support from a rheumatologist,” Ezeonyeji adds. Here, Alsina and Ezeonyeji debunk nine common arthritis myths… Myth 1: Arthritis only affects the elderly While it is more common in older adults, arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children and young adults. Myth 2: Cracking your knuckles causes arthritisPeople who crack their knuckles will sometimes be wrongly warned that it’ll bring on arthritis, but Ezeonyeji explains: “There’s no scientific evidence linking knuckle cracking to the development of arthritis. When people crack their knuckles, they experience a release of pressure in the joints and relaxation in the surrounding muscles. It can make the joint feel more mobile and is unlikely to cause arthritis or other problems.” Myth 3: It’s just wear and tearAlsina says one of the most damaging myths is that any form of arthritis is just ‘wear and tear’. “Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and will affect half of us by age 70. But it isn’t an inevitable part of ageing – your joints are not like car tyres destined to wear down and be replaced. They are made of complex living tissue that our bodies constantly repair and maintain, and osteoarthritis occurs when our bodies can no longer do this effectively,” she says. “Our joints get stronger the more we use them, so keeping physically active and maintaining a healthy weight can help keep osteoarthritis under control.” Myth 4: Cold damp weather causes arthritisAlthough cold and damp weather can sometimes make arthritic joints feel worse, it’s definitely not why arthritis starts. Ezeonyeji explains: “Weather can influence joint discomfort, but it doesn’t cause arthritis. Arthritis is primarily a result of genetic and environmental factors.” Myth 5: Exercise makes arthritis worse People with arthritis can often find it hard to maintain regular physical activity, but a lack of movement can actually increase symptoms such as stiffness and pain, warns Alsina. “Building activity into your daily routine can help improve this, because using your joints builds muscle strength and improves the blood supply, all of which can ease symptoms and keep joints in better shape for longer.” She says different activities will suit different people, but adds: “Swimming and cycling are great exercises to try, as they get the body moving without putting pressure on painful joints.” It’s always a good idea to seek advice from a healthcare specialist if you are unsure what types of exercise will be suitable for you. Myth 6: Arthritis is just joint pain – it’s not serious Ezeonyeji says that while arthritis can be debilitating and lead to a reduced quality of life, it can get even more serious than that for some people. “Rheumatoid arthritis, for instance, is an autoimmune disease that can affect various organs and tissues in addition to joints,” she points out. Myth 7: There’s no treatment for arthritis While there’s no cure for arthritis, Ezeonyeji says there are many effective treatments for managing the disease, including pain relief medication, physiotherapy, disease modifying agents and biological drugs for inflammatory arthritis, plus joint surgery in some cases. “It’s also recommended that people with arthritis modify their lifestyle and try to lose weight [if they need to], follow a healthy balanced diet, exercise regularly and stop smoking,” she adds. Myth 8: Miracle cures can make arthritis disappear Although some people with arthritis believe copper or magnetic bracelets ease symptoms, Alsina says studies show no evidence to support this. “It’s the same with lots of supplements, and some of these are really pricey,” she observes. “Interestingly though, placebos can be very effective and continue to work even if you know it’s a placebo, so if you find these helpful there’s no reason to stop.” Myth 9: Certain foods definitely help/hinder arthritisThere are claims that foods like tomatoes can cause arthritis flares, and other foodstuff like cider vinegar may help it. Alsina says: “Sadly there’s no good evidence that there are specific foods you should avoid or have more of. But if you do find things that are helpful or make your symptoms worse, then listen to your body.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Prince Harry spotted at Windsor Castle on anniversary of Queen’s death How the weather can change the way you dream All the times Kate has channelled the late Queen’s style since her death
2023-09-11 15:15
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'No One Will Save You' review: Alien home invasion horror without the tension
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Priya Ahluwalia: I’m so much more than just a ‘sustainable designer’
When fashion designer Priya Ahluwalia walked into the dress rehearsal of her autumn/winter 2023 London Fashion Week show in February, she couldn’t stop crying. Titled Symphony, the show was staged at a formerly baroque church hall, with models walking to jazz-infused renditions played by pianist Insxght and saxophonist Solaariss. “I was just so emotional,” the 30-year-old founder and creative director of Ahluwalia says. “It was like the culmination of a big deep dive coming together. That’s how I felt.” Ahluwalia rediscovered the music of her youth when designing the collection. “I don’t like to do things in an obvious way,” Ahluwalia admits. “As life changes, you listen to different things at different stages, so I thought about the visuals of what music sounds like when designing Symphony. “I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston was on the radio when I was born. So my mum finds that song really special and played it to me a lot. Sade’s Kiss Of Life was quite informative, and 50 Cent was also in there too. I remember getting one of his albums when I was 10 and thinking it was phenomenal. I also thought a lot about Prince, Queen, Freddie Mercury and even traditional Punjabi music.” Sound waves and musical notes inspired the lasered print on denim, jacquard patterns on mohair knitwear and track tops with accompanying shorts. Earthy shadows, reds and ochres were taken from the colours of album covers and illuminated cotton separates. Ahluwalia launched her eponymous fashion label in 2018 after graduating from the MA Menswear course at the University of Westminster, combining her dual Indian-Nigerian heritage and London roots, while also exploring the potential of vintage and surplus clothing. Around that time, Ahluwalia visited her father in Nigeria and says she noticed “paupers” wearing secondhand clothing from the UK. “I was really confused and started to ask questions about it,” she says – and it led to the publishing of her first book, Sweet Lassi, exploring the secondhand clothing industry in the Global South. “Finding ways for people to cherish their clothing forever has always been important to me,” Ahluwalia says. “Microsoft and I worked on a platform called Circulate in 2021, where we use AI to crowdsource and categorise people’s unwanted clothing. But now, I think consumers really see the value in learning about the things that happen behind the scenes of the clothes they are purchasing.” It’s why individual garments from the Symphony collection feature Digital ID technology — created and connected by the EON Product Cloud platform, powered by Microsoft Azure. Ahluwalia customers can scan with their mobile phones to discover their item’s unique story, including the design inspiration, production processes and origins of the sourced materials, helping consumers better understand how their clothes can be resold, reused and recycled. “This gives us the opportunity to really share exclusive content and information about a product. As a contemporary luxury brand selling items that are around £400, it’s important to provide our customers with more value and share the stories behind their clothes, whilst encouraging them to engage with sustainability.” But Ahluwalia doesn’t want to be pigeonholed as a sustainable designer. “I’m so much more than making the right choices,” she says. “I’m a designer first and foremost, who is also a creative director, filmmaker of Joy and Beloved, who works sustainably to explore and redefine the inherent beauty of blackness [and brownness] through an authentic lens. “The vision is that one day someone would be sitting on Ahluwalia in their front room, watching it, wearing it, smelling it and eating it. A whole 360. I would love Ahluwalia to be an example of how ideas that are not so rooted in Eurocentric values are expandable and amazing on a global stage for people to interact with in a global sense, like we see with many traditional European [fashion] houses.” So what’s next for the fashion house? “We’re doing a show at London Fashion Week in September, but I can’t tell you anything about it. The only thing that I can tell you is that we’re holding the show at the British Library, which I’m really excited about.” Discover more about Ahluwalia’s partnership with Microsoft and EON here: Ahluwalia Symphony Unlocked | Microsoft Unlocked. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Experts reveal why you keep waking up at 4am, and how you can prevent it 10 last-minute gardening jobs before you go on holiday How often should you wash your bra?
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