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Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024The start of a SPECIAL YEARAs we step into 2024, we’re taking the opportunity to bring you plenty of inspiration for the months ahead, with the hope you’ll enjoy a happier, healthier and better informed year as a result. We’re bringing you this advice because it’s what you’ve told us you want, and we’ve been listening to you a lot of late – both in person at last autumn’s Good Housekeeping Live event and, more recently, in the form of two reader surveys, the details of which you can find in this issue (see pages 8 and 36). Your message is loud and clear: you’re very concerned about climate change and healthcare and, as you’re still doing the lion’s share of the housework, you want to know what new technology is being developed to help…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024‘I feelhappy now because I have a sense of purpose’Davina McCall exudes happiness, warmth and an irrepressible zest for life. Generously dispensing hugs to everyone on the team at our cover shoot, she is full of fun, jokes and ABBA songs (after this, she’s off to see the ABBA Voyage show).At 56, Davina has a lot to be excited about. She recently received an MBE for services to broadcasting, is returning for a fifth series of ITV1’s Masked Singer and enjoying a new role as an ambassador for the ZOE personalised nutrition company.She also makes a surprise revelation that she’s about to launch her own lingerie line. ‘I feel like menopausal women are finally being viewed as valuable now – and that feels really good,’ she says.Meanwhile, life at home in Tunbridge Wells has undergone some changes. Davina’s partner…10 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Can you KICK IT?1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024HANKS for the memories!Tom Hanks is often described as one of the nicest actors in Hollywood – and he’s also one of the most talented. His vast variety of film roles has seen him survive on a desert island in Cast Away, travel to space in Apollo 13 and lead a band of soldiers behind enemy lines in Saving Private Ryan.For his latest project, the two-time Oscar-winner – who is now a successful author, director and producer – has stepped behind the camera. He has teamed up with Steven Spielberg for the third epic in their trilogy of miniseries, Masters Of The Air. The war saga is inspired by the true story of an American bomber squadron during the Second World War, who fought against Nazi Germany.Now 67, Hanks admits that he has…5 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024‘Home is abouta sense of belonging’Thanks to a career in television spanning 30 years, Kate Humble has become a much-loved and familiar face to most of us in the UK. Through her many programmes and successful books, her love of all things wildlife is no secret.But Kate, 55, confesses she never actually envisaged a career in presenting – nor did she ever have her sights set on being in the spotlight. That all happened by accident after she got a job as a researcher on BBC One’s Holiday programme in her early 20s. Just two days into the job, she was called into the programme editor’s office.‘There was I, this little scruff,’ she recollects. ‘I was pretty sure I was about to be sacked – I’d obviously done something wrong on my first day. Then…9 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024‘It took us 22 years to have our first date’As Simon and I danced until the sun came up at a music festival last summer, we felt like teenagers again – despite both being 47 and a married couple.Drinks in hand and sporting sequin hot pants (him, not me!), we could have been back at a 1980s disco. Despite only reconnecting a few years before, neither of us had changed much since our first kiss when we were 19. I love that we still share the same sense of silliness and fun as we did back then. But despite liking each other at school, it took us 22 years to go on a date.Simon and I met at The Woodroffe School in Lyme Regis, Dorset, in 1987 when we were both 11. Although we weren’t close, we shared a…6 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Glowing forward‘Be mindful that what you put in your body will have an effect on your skin’Dr Thivi Maruthappu is the UK’s only dual-qualified nutritionist and consultant dermatologist, and the author of SkinFood.I believe food comes first in terms of future-proofing your skin. Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables is one of the best things you can do, as they’re full of antioxidants, the key factor in preventing collagen breakdown. You can apply antioxidants to your skin, but you’ll get more through diet, because that way they’re able to reach deeper layers of the skin.I didn’t always realise food was so important. For years, I ate the ‘junior doctor diet’ of canteen food and thought, ‘I’ll get away with it by using expensive face creams and taking supplements.’ Then I became…9 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024A word on… CONCEALERConcealer’s evolution from useful cover-up to glamorous skin-perfector has been something to watch in recent years. Okay, there were some standout moments in the past (Bobbi Brown’s gorgeously creamy textures and Laura Mercier’s iconic Secret Camouflage palettes upped our concealing game in the 1990s), but today’s magic wands bring even more to your makeup bag.‘Traditional concealers have been predominantly focused on coverage,’ says Saskia Lankshear, vice president of new product development at Beauty Pie. ‘Modern concealers are more like tinted serums, with lightweight formulas that feel like skincare, aimed at achieving youthful and natural-looking skin.’ Saskia points to the addition of gentle actives, such as hyaluronic acid, to hydrate and plump up fine lines, especially around the eyes.But what’s also new about these sheer and glowy fluids is that they’re…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024‘I’m healthy, I EXERCISE… so why do I have the BONES of a 90 year old?’I wanted to be a GP from the age of eight, and I’d been fascinated with all things health and medicine even before that. Despite my own children being all grown-up now, they still tease me about being ‘the food police’ because I’m so obsessed with them eating their vegetables. I also firmly believe in practising the healthy lifestyle advice that I preach and, as such, I’ve never considered myself to be at high risk of any condition. That’s why the results of a bone density scan a few months ago, which showed that, at the age of 60, I have a degree of osteoporosis I’m only used to seeing in my 90-year-old patients, totally knocked me for six.DID MY CHILDHOOD INCREASE MY RISK?I’m a typical redhead – blue eyes,…8 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Turn over a new LEAFWhile it’s long been established that spending time outdoors in nature is good, there’s now evidence that spending time indoors with nature can be just as beneficial. One recent study found that indoor plant carers experienced less stress, lower blood pressure and higher mental wellbeing, while researchers in Norway found the feelgood factor created by house plants could reduce tiredness and headaches by 25%. Some studies have even suggested they’re good for skin health, as they increase indoor humidity and reduce air dryness.‘There’s now lots of evidence showing that being in a room with plants boosts mood, so we feel less stressed and more positive,’ says environmental psychologist Professor Birgitta Gatersleben.One of the reasons? Indoor plants give our brains a mini-break. ‘We need direct attention to concentrate on day-to-day tasks,’…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Luxury that lastsThere’s something blissful about stepping on to a luxurious new deep-pile twist carpet. And this is just the experience you’ll have with the Holyrood carpet, the newest in the Good Housekeeping collection.Available in 12 gorgeous neutral shades, from chic Silver to beautiful blush pink Bloom, the Holyrood will stand the test of time thanks to its stylish looks and outstanding durability. With a 10-year warranty and a lifetime stain guarantee, this UK-made carpet will stay looking new for longer, and it’s a good choice for pet lovers, too, as it’s bleach-cleanable. Its hardwearing twist pile means the Holyrood is an ideal carpet to grace any room, even heavy-traffic areas such as stairs and hallways. Versatile and desirable – what more could you want?See the full Good Housekeeping collection at carpetright.co.uk/brands/good-housekeepingOrder…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024MAKE YOUR HALLWAY WELCOMINGALL IN ONEA fitted storage unit that will keep everything from shoes and umbrellas to scarves and coats tidy is worth the investment. In wide entranceways it will become the single most essential piece of furniture you have, and it will work equally well in utility and boot rooms. If that’s not an option, look for a multifunctional freestanding solution that combines hooks and drawers with a perch for resting on while tying up shoelaces – VonHaus has affordable options.A SHOE-INFootwear can take over hallways, especially in busy households. Opt for discreet storage that keeps shoes hidden away, but make a hard and fast rule that each family member has only one or two everyday pairs kept close to the front door – summer sandals and snow boots need not…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024BRING SOME ZEN TO YOUR BATHROOMRELAX AND UNWINDMake the most of your bathroom by crafting a lovely environment for a long soak in the tub. If you’re renovating, consider installing a recessed shelf to store indulgent toiletries. This will help avoid clutter in corners of the tub where half-empty bottles of shampoo and body wash can seem to multiply. Investing in matching dispensers, and decanting the liquids into them, is a good quick fix. A simple bath rack is a handy piece of kit for getting organised as it makes the perfect spot for solid soap and a skin sponge, and it also encourages relaxation as a useful perch for a scented candle or paperback.FRESHEN UPNeat spaces are much easier to keep clean, which makes having an organised bathroom all the more important. Keep the…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Kitchen treats1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024SUNRISE ALARMSWINNERPhilips SmartSleep Wake-up Light £169.99; philips.co.uk 92/1007 wake-up sounds and FM radio; 20-to-40-minute sunrise and sunset simulationThis sleek alarm impressed our testers with its realistic sunrise and sunset simulations for a good wind-down/wake-up. You can choose from a range of soothing wake-up sounds, and testers praised the ‘midnight function’, which provides just enough light to help you find your way in the dark. It’s quite chunky but comes with a handy USB charging point.RUNNER-UPLumie Bodyclock Shine 300 £149; lumie.com 91/10015 wake-up sounds and FM radio; 15-to-90-minute sunrise and sunset simulationComing in a very close second, the Lumie Bodyclock is a real multitasker – as well as simulating sunrise and sunset, it doubles as a bedside lamp. It also boasts 15 wake-up sounds, from white noise to purring kittens, and you…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 20247 CLEVER ENERGY-SAVING HACKSOver the last few years, eye-wateringly high household energy prices have become the norm. So much so that when the energy price cap (this limits what suppliers can charge per unit of gas and electricity, and as standing charges) set by regulator Ofgem fell last summer, it was the first time maximum prices for energy customers on standard variable tariffs had fallen in nearly three years*. Unfortunately, with the withdrawal of Government support (which reduced domestic energy bills by £400 this time last year) this winter, many bill payers won’t be better off.The good news is that you can now shop around for a better energy deal, with more competitive fixed tariffs making a comeback (use the ‘Should you fix?’ energy calculator on the MoneySavingExpert site to see if fixing…5 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024STORECUPBOARD ESSENTIALSINSTANT COFFEEWINNERKenco Gold Indulgence Instant Coffee £6.25 for 195g; Ocado 85/100Kenco has been making coffee for 100 years, so perhaps it’s no surprise that our panel found it a powerful, deeply roasted brew with subtle notes of malt and bitter dark chocolate.RUNNER-UPCo-op Fairtrade Rich Roast Instant Coffee £2.45 for 100g 82/100The Co-op’s own-brand rich roast smells delicious and is beautifully balanced with notes of caramel, vanilla and just a touch of light acidity.BEST BUDGET BUYWaitrose & Partners Essential Rich Roast Coffee £1.30 for 100g 77/100This Fairtrade-certified, well-balanced instant coffee has notes of chocolate, caramel and almonds. A great all-rounder.PASTA SAUCEJOINT WINNERMr Organic Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce £3 for 350g; Ocado 86/100This authentic Italian tomato sauce uses organic ingredients, is gluten-free and has reduced salt and no added sugar. Produced with…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024February’sGOOD LIFETV picksCALL THE MIDWIFEThe start of a new year can only mean one thing: a new season of this popular period drama. It’s 1969 and Nonnatus House is launching a midwife training scheme while simultaneously dealing with a number of complex social and health challenges. Another emotional series packed with important storylines. BBC OneMR BATES VS. THE POST OFFICEOne of the biggest miscarriages of justice in recent British legal history is brought to life in this eye-opening series. Toby Jones plays Alan Bates, the hero sub-postmaster who successfully took the Post Office to the High Court after hundreds of his colleagues were wrongly accused of theft, fraud and false accounting due to a defective IT system. ITV1TRIGGER POINTExpect twists, turns and more explosive moments as the second series of the…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024This month’s 10 books to read right now!Book of the monthTHE STORM WE MADEby Vanessa ChanIn this compelling drama, a Malayan mother becomes an unlikely spy for the invading Japanese forces during the Second World War – with catastrophic consequences for her community and family. With a strong sense of time and place, unforgettable characters and moving writing, this has everything you want from historical fiction.Loveable heroesTHE EXCITEMENTSby CJ WrayI adored the two leads in this fun and thrilling mystery. The Williamson sisters are much-loved Second World War veterans who regularly appear in the press and on TV – but they’re hiding a huge secret about the roles they really played. As they head to Paris to receive the Legion of Honour for their part in liberating France, they’re planning one last adventure.Cosy crimeMISS AUSTEN INVESTIGATESby Jessica…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024GH TRAVELA TREE-MENDOUS HOTEL!If you want a winter escape with a difference, My Arbor (my-arbor.com/en) is a five-star wellness hotel built on 66 tree trunk stilts, 1,000m high, in Italy’s South Tyrol, just 40km from the Austrian border. Each room has a glass-walled corner from which to admire the snow-covered Dolomites (mountain gazing is a great mindfulness tool), and the spa’s signature Arboris Tree Ritual uses the healing properties of larch, spruce and Swiss and mountain pine to give you a new year boost. You can also ski directly from the front door. Double rooms at half-board from around £212pp a night. easyJet (easyjet.com) flies to Innsbruck from £13.99 one-way.AN OLYMPIC HOMEParis expects an extra 3m visitors for the Olympic Games this summer (26 July to 11 August) and many hotels…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Give your grey matter a workoutSudokuFill in the blank squares with the numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contains all the numbers from 1 to 9.HEAD SCRATCHERMIND BENDERKiller SudokuNormal Sudoku rules apply, plus the digits in each inner shape (marked by a dotted line) must add up to the number in the top corner of the shape.CodewordIn this finished crossword, each letter of the alphabet appears as a code number. Replacing the decoded numbers 3, 8 and 13 with their letters in the grid will help you guess the identity of the other letters.Jumbo CrosswordACROSS9 Abominable (6)11 Relating to vision (5)13 Withstands (7)14 Goal (3)15 Showing utter resignation (6)16 Shocked (7)17 Increment (5)18 Coming between two things in time (12)20 Fashion experts who create a look (8)23…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Hottest tickets in TOWNEnjoy a European city break and experience the thrill of a live musical concert from the most celebrated names in music and opera. Music breaks give you exclusive access to some of the world’s greatest music stars, intimate performance settings and extraordinary venues. Travel to Belgium and the Netherlands to see violinist and conductor André Rieu (above) perform in Maastricht’s Vrijthof square or cruise through Venice in five-star luxury and be treated to a private performance by one of the UK’s most successful tenors, Russell Watson (inset).JOIN AN EXTRAORDINARY NIGHT OF MUSIC WITH ANDRÉ RIEUEnjoy an unforgettable concert in historic Maastricht, with return Eurostar tickets and a stylish four-star hotel stay in or close to Brussels included. Each year, The King of Waltz André Rieu brings his renowned Johann Strauss…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024FOODIE tours to SAVOURFor a delicious foodie break, try these tasting tours in Italy and Portugal. Both nations are renowned for regional specialities, including the freshest pastas from the Emilia-Romagna region, zingy olive oils from sunny Puglia and tasty port wines from the Douro. If you like to get to know a place through its food, look no further!INDULGE YOURSELF IN BOLOGNATake a trip to Italy’s foodie heartland with this flavour-driven tour. Bologna is known as the gastronomic capital of Italy, world-famous for its ragu sauce. Here, you’ll enjoy a food tour and have the chance to explore the beautiful arcaded walkways, discovering local hotspots for yourself. You’ll also take a cooking class in nearby Modena, where you’ll also visit a balsamic vineyard and take part in a vinegar tasting. Also included are…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Relax, IT’S THE WEEKEND!STRIPE A POSECan you ever own too many stripes? It’s a unanimous no as the versatility of a Breton knit knows no bounds! Choose the right direction to show how you feel – horizontal lines are more relaxed, while vertical stripes look smarter – but who cares if you wear both.QUILTY PLEASURESLightweight and insulated, the quintessential quilted coat is the cover-up to count on when you step outside. In neutral hues, it slots seamlessly over all manner of long-sleeve knitwear, including this heavenly hooded jumper dress – just add ribbed wool tights and chunky boots. If you want a posher puffa, elevate the look by belting oversize silhouettes and colour-matching your belt with your boots. More style, less snowman!DENIM DELIGHTSAn alternative to jeans, the denim dress is one of the…4 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024‘I’m learning to do one thing at a time’In October, I was waxing lyrical about loving the shorter autumnal days and preparing for a restful winter. I still very much stand by connecting with the seasons as much as I can – nature in winter reminds us that everything that blooms and bears fruit (as we all do in our own unique ways) needs a fallow time. A time to just be. A time to reevaluate and take stock, remember what’s important, notice where we’re overstretching ourselves, and rest. However, in recent weeks I’ve found that a little harder to do. I shall share why… otherwise it would be a very short, nay tantalising, column this month!I’ve still been savouring the cosiness that winter can bring (duvet cocoon, anyone?) – and I hope you too have had some…4 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024BLUE-SKY THINKINGStaring at the idyllic beach, I gaze at turquoise waves hugging the shoreline as a couple stroll hand in hand across golden sand. Unlike them, I’m not soaking up the winter sun on a far-flung island. Far from it: this tranquil scene before me is, in fact, an advert for an airline’s big winter sale.January is often painted as the bleakest month, but for me, February has come to represent the very worst of winter. Gone are the golden, crisp leaves of autumn. The novelty of a fresh new year has also passed, and it seems like a long slog ahead until brighter days.Every February, like clockwork, I get an insatiable craving for summer. It’s more than a desire for sunshine. I long for everything it brings with it, from…6 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Keeping one step ahead in the fight AGAINST CANCERI started working as a junior doctor looking after cancer patients in the 1990s; since then, the landscape has totally transformed. Back then, it was all about treating late-stage disease; today, the focus is on predicting and detecting cancer early. The change has come about because we’ve developed powerful tools to detect minute changes, so they can spot potential cancers very early in a way we couldn’t do before. In an ideal world, we’ll be able to pinpoint individuals who are at greater risk before they even have any idea there are malignant cells in their bodies – and then we’ll intervene to diminish the risk.Thirty years ago, many of my patients had advanced disease with few treatment options. I was very struck that we needed to do better, and…6 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024GH BEAUTYThis month’s good advice from beauty director Eve CameronHair dosWhen shine is lacking, this is as good as an in-salon glossing treatment and leaves hair hydrated with a beautiful sheen.I love how easy this is to use: shampoo, apply and rinse after four minutes. It leaves hair feeling softer and looking visibly healthier. A must-try if you colour your hair or use heated tools.Overdue a root retouch? There’s enough coverage here to stretch out salon appointments for weeks, and it disguises thinning, too.Clairol Root Touch Up Colour + Volume 2 in 1 Spray, £8.99CHEERY BUYS FOR CHILLY DAYSPERSONAL SERVICESOne of the smartest innovations of the past few years is online, bespoke, dermatologist-designed skincare services. Midlifers have been under-served, though, according to new brand And Begin, which starts its free consultations…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Winter SUNIs there anything more invigorating than throwing open the curtains to golden winter light? Perhaps because the sun’s rays are so precious and short-lived at this time of year, they have a ‘catch me if you can’ quality that makes even a slither of brightness feel immediately fortifying. And so it is in the world of scent. While sunny blends laced with citrus, tropical white flowers, exotic fruits and aquatic or herbal notes may not immediately spring to mind when considering a winter fragrance, experts agree that they’re just the tonic. ‘These notes have an uplifting effect, which is exactly what we need and crave during the darker months,’ says Olivia da Costa, founder and creative director of Olfactive O, who released her zippy Citrus just as the nights started…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024THE BESTSELLING Good Housekeeping BEAUTY ESSENTIALS BOXBUY YOUR GOOD HOUSEKEEPING BEAUTY ESSENTIALS BOX NOWSCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT HEARSTMAGAZINES.CO.UK/GH-BBEASILY SPLIT YOUR PURCHASE INTO THREE MONTHLY PAYMENTS WITH PayPal PAY IN 3YOUR Good Housekeeping BEAUTY ESSENTIALS BOX CONTAINS:INCLUDES A 12-MONTH DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION TO GOOD HOUSEKEEPING MAGAZINE WORTH £30‘AMAZING PRODUCTS AND FANTASTIC VALUE FOR MONEY. I BOUGHT ONE FOR A GIFT – THEN HAD TO BUY ONE FOR MYSELF!’ TRUSTED BEAUTY BOX CUSTOMERWORDS: LUCIE RUTTER. PHOTOGRAPHY: BELL BLOOD STUDIO. IN RARE CIRc*msTANCES, BOX CONTENTS MAY VARY. SOME PRODUCT VALUES ARE APPROXIMATE. FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS, SEE HEARSTMAGAZINES.CO.UK/TERMS-AND-CONDITIONS…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024LIVEtill you’re100 andLOVE itIt’s the start of a new year and you have two options. You could stay in, virtuously nursing a salad washed down with a brown tincture from a health-food shop. Or you could catch up with your friends and family for some laughter and, perhaps, a glass of wine. It’s pretty obvious which might be more enjoyable, but what might surprise you is that the second option could actually be better for your health and wellbeing in the long term, too.There’s a wealth of new studies showing that, if you want to live a happier and longer life, it’s not necessarily diets, deprivation or dawn workouts that are the answer. Instead, they’re finding that cultivating happiness, laughter, movement, sex, eating good food and filling your day with passion and purpose…8 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024PLANTING HEALTH1 EMBRACE BIOPHILIC DESIGNThis key 2024 wellness design trend is all about capturing the peace and tranquillity of nature and bringing it into your home. Choose pots and containers in natural materials – such as rattan, bamboo and stone – in earthy colour palettes that create a harmonious connection to the greenery. You might also want to consider plants known for their medicinal and healing properties – think aloe vera for soothing or jasmine for its scent.2 GO LEAFYResearch by the University of Reading and RHS found that lush, green plants with a rounded, dense canopy gave us the biggest feelgood factor. In its study, devil’s ivy, weeping fig and palms delivered the greatest sense of wellbeing.3 GROW. EAT. LOVE.Planting an indoor edible herb garden combines mindful nurturing moments with…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024COVERLESS DUVETSWINNERNight Lark Tufted Dots Coverless Duvet £70 for a double, The Fine Bedding Company 97/100Smartfil polyester filling from recycled PET bottles; choice of 10.5 or 4.5 tog; single, double, king or super kingThis duvet has secure stitching, it didn’t fade in the wash and we liked that it came with a duffel storage bag.RUNNER-UPCoverless Duvet Set £35 for a double, Silentnight 94/100Microfibre filling; 10.5 tog; single and double sizesThis comes in a choice of navy or grey, with a matching pillowcase. It fitted our test mattress well, plus the filling was evenly distributed. Some would have liked brighter colour options, but it has a good weight and didn’t rustle at night.BEST DESIGNCoverless Comfort Duvet and Pillowcase £35 for a double, Slumberdown 93/100Hollow fibre filling; 10.5 tog; single, double, king sizeDouble…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024FIND SERENITY IN YOUR SITTING ROOMWhile cluttered rooms look busy and seem overwhelming, going the opposite way isn’t necessarily the answer – minimalist spaces with no accessories can feel cold and sparse. Strike a balance and make your home warm and welcoming with a sitting room that’s organised but full of personality. Don’t think of trinkets and decorations as clutter; just remember that favourite pieces always look better when they have room to breathe rather than being additions to already busy surfaces. And don’t forget that wall art, patterned rugs and even statement lighting can add character without taking up masses of space.PERFECT PIECESLook out for multipurpose furniture that will optimise your space. Loaf has excellent sofabeds and pieces featuring clever under-seat storage. Keep surfaces clear of clutter, but don’t strip them entirely: beautiful vases,…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024WORK YOUR HOME OFFICE HARDERHELP DESKOrdered storage will help you to work more effectively, so don’t let office drawers and cabinets become dumping grounds. Go through them periodically to assess what’s needed. Old tech cables and expired batteries can be recycled at some high-street retailers (see recycleyourelectricals.org.uk for local drop-offs) while charity shops will gladly accept excess stationery. Drawer inserts with individual compartments can help to keep things organised – Ikea has good options that will separate your spare staples from paperclips.GOOD THINKINGDesks should have ample space for the essentials – computer monitor, keyboard, mouse – as well as for useful extras like a pen pot and letter tray. But you also want enough room to write in a notebook without having to move these things around. Shelving placed directly above a desk area…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024HOUSE BEAUTIFUL DARCY EXCLUSIVELY AT DFSThe newest addition to the House Beautiful Collection at DFS, Darcy is the epitome of modern comfort matched with timeless style.Sumptuously upholstered in plush yet incredibly hardwearing velvet fabric, the Darcy comes in 10 on-trend colours so you’ll find your perfect match whatever your space. And its style credentials don’t end there. The wide, squared-off arms have been specially designed to be the ideal height for lounging against; the neat, angled legs come in a choice of brushed brass or nickel effect; and the seat cushions, big enough for the whole family to snuggle up on, are filled with quality foam that bounces back after use with no need to plump.As well as the corner sofa shown here, the Darcy comes in a larger corner arrangement with covetable chaise end,…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024The BEST ways to FUEL your SAVINGSWhile filling our cars has never been cheap, we’ve felt the pinch even more in the last 18 months. The invasion of Ukraine sent fuel prices rocketing in early 2022 as the rising cost of crude oil made it more expensive for suppliers to produce fuel. A switch to ‘cleaner’ E10 fuel (a mix of regular unleaded petrol and up to 10% ethanol) also pushed up prices because ethanol is more expensive than petrol. Since then, petrol and diesel prices have fluctuated, but consumers haven’t always benefited during the troughs.Supermarket filling stations attracted criticism when the CMA (Competition and Markets Authority) noted that, despite fuel getting cheaper in mid-2023, savings hadn’t been passed on to motorists. So, finding a loyalty scheme that earns you points on the forecourt can be…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024A CUP full of PERKSIf one of your new year resolutions is to adopt greener habits, why not start with a reusable cup? Not only will you be helping to tackle the tide of billions of single-use coffee cups thrown away in the UK each year, but you’ll also be rewarded. Coffee shops including Starbucks and Pret now offer incentives for bringing in your own cup and, as just over half (54%) of Good Housekeeping readers say they’re more likely to adopt greener habits when there’s a cost saving to be made, this is a great way to do it.Here’s a round-up of the incentives at five popular coffee chains…STARBUCKS You get 25p off the cost of a handmade drink when you use a reusable cup.CAFFÈ NERO You get an extra loyalty point (so…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024MONEY LESSONSfrom women like youOne thing you can say about money: it’s a life-long journey of learning. We get better at managing it through practice, making mistakes and finding out the hard way what works best. ‘Like so much in life, confidence with finances is something we have to work at,’ explains Becky O’Connor, director of public affairs at PensionBee. ‘It’s rarely something any of us are born with, but it grows slowly over the years.’And, no matter what age you are, it’s never too late to boost your financial know-how. ‘While it can sometimes feel like one step forward and two steps back, there are also times in our lives when we have a chance to get ahead,’ adds Becky. So why not make 2024 the year you take control by learning from…11 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024FUTURE FOODSgood for you, better for the planetUsing many of the guidelines and principles from the WWF Future 50 Foods – a list of 50 foods selected by experts in sustainability, agriculture and nutrition – we’ve created 20 recipes to inspire you to broaden the range of ingredients you cook with. In doing so, the aim is reduce our overreliance on just a few crops and livestock (known as dietary monotony), which in turn is linked to a decline in the diversity of plants and animals in and around agriculture (known as agrobiodiversity). This decline, coupled with climate change, threatens the resilience of our food systems. If we all make small changes to what we eat, it can add up to a massive positive impact – and believe us, swapping to, or incorporating more of, these delicious…32 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024HOT TICKETSTHE COLOR PURPLEIn 1985, Oprah Winfrey made her acting debut in the film adaptation of Alice Walker’s seminal novel – and now she’s produced a screen version of the musical. A celebration of sisterhood, it stars Fantasia Barrino as the young Celie Harris Johnson, an African-American woman living in the American South who survives incredible abuse and bigotry. In cinemas from 26 JanuaryAN EVENING WITH RICK STEINCulinary legend Rick Stein is celebrating almost 50 years in the kitchen with a live UK tour. Kicking off at Buxton’s Royal Opera House, it will feature fascinating revelations from his career and his global adventures, as well as poetic interludes. A feast for the mind. 15 to 30 March; rickstein.comLONDON NEVER DIESBond fans will love this show at The London Cabaret Club, where…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024The books that CHANGED MY LIFETHE LAST BOOK THAT MADE ME LAUGHDidn’t Nobody Give A S**t What Happened To Carlotta by James Hannaham is told in a hilariously expressive voice unlike anything I’ve ever read. And, like most masterful comic novels, it’s also about matters of deep seriousness, such as living in a world that can take far more than it gives.THE LAST BOOK THAT MADE ME CRYIt has to be Lincoln In The Bardo by George Saunders, although not so much because it’s sad (though it is sad) but because it’s so good. It’s essentially about the death of Abraham Lincoln’s son, but that’s like saying Moby Dick is essentially about a man who was really mad at a whale. I was brought to tears by the evidence that it’s still possible, in this…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024How to holiday in 2024Nothing, it seems, will stop us from packing our bags and getting away from it all. Whether we seek sunshine or self-discovery, travel is the perfect way to find it, and we’re determined not to let the rising cost of living get in the way.According to the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), 64% of us plan to travel abroad this year (up from 61% last year), and Europe is our number-one choice for a break, followed by North America. As Mark Tanzer, chief executive of ABTA, says: ‘Despite the strain on our household finances, we’re still prioritising multiple holidays a year, both at home and abroad, preferring to cut back on eating out and clothes rather than travel.’A recent poll by HSBC even showed we’re willing to pay more…8 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024FANTASTIC OFFERS FOR YOU!20% off Live Unlimited LondonSPECIALISING IN TIMELESS, PLUS-SIZE CLOTHES TO FIT AND FLATTER, LIVE UNLIMITED LONDON OFFERS AFFORDABLE, curve-loving collections that go beyond a size 16 and consider how women’s bodies change throughout the size spectrum. The brand’s ethos is that no one should be limited by their shape, so they can ‘live unlimited’. Choose from cosy knitwear, statement dresses, smart tailoring, party sequins, comfort-stretch denim and elevated basics in UK sizes 12 to 28 (including a new petite range that also goes up to size 28), all in flattering silhouettes.So, why not treat yourself to a new winter coat or standout evening outfit with our exclusive 20% discount?HOW TO CLAIM You can redeem your exclusive 20% discount online at liveunlimitedlondon.com from 15 December 2023 until 24 January 2024. Simply…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Discover the wonderful wildlife and glorious gardens of the ISLES OF SCILLYOn the tranquil Isles of Scilly, 28 miles from the Cornish coast, you’ll find that life passes by at a peaceful pace. These isles are famous for their stunning scenery, botanical gardens and powder-soft beaches. On this six-day trip, you’ll discover why so many people consider the Isles of Scilly to be the UK’s most idyllic archipelago. This tour will take you to many unforgettable locations, such as Tresco Abbey Garden – described as ‘Kew without the glass’ – the rugged coastline of Bryher and the quaint harbours of St Martin’s.MEET JULIAN BRANSCOMBEYou’ll get the chance to attend a talk by the head of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, who will give you an insight into the trust’s work and the native wildlife.GLORIOUS GARDENSDiscover the subtropical Tresco Abbey Garden,…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Discover the BOCELLI FAMILY’S TUSCANY and hear ANDREA sing liveOnce a year, Italian opera legend Andrea Bocelli returns to the small town of Lajatico, where he was born, to host a spectacular open-air concert. This unique event takes place in the stunning amphitheatre of the Teatro del Silenzio – the Theatre of Silence – built especially for the Maestro’s summer concerts.This very special concert in the rolling Tuscan hills will be the highlight of your four-night stay in Tuscany, where you’ll have plenty of time to take in its many sights, including Florence’s Renaissance architecture and the medieval town of Volterra.You’ll have the opportunity to meet a member of the Bocelli family during a wine tasting at the Bocelli family’s restaurant in Lajatico, you’ll tour the Bocelli Vineyards and enjoy a trip to the Tuscan Riviera.Throughout your trip, you’ll…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Good ideas for FebruaryCOMPILED BY: AMANDA MARCANTONIO, JAMES CUNNINGHAM, ALICE SHIELDS, GEORGIE D'ARCY COLES, PHOEBE LEE…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024WONDERWEAR4 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024How you’re living aGREENER LIFEWhen the Good Housekeeping sustainability survey launched in 2021, the country was still in the grip of coronavirus. Research at the time highlighted an increase in our collective environmental awareness as a result of the pandemic, which may have been due to appreciating nature when we could get outside, getting more used to ‘making do’ as global and local supply chains struggled to deliver products we were used to seeing in shops, or enjoying less congested roads and plane-free skies as a result of travel restrictions. Whatever the reasons, many experts expected this shift in our environmental consciousness to continue post-pandemic.Since then, the cost-of-living crisis has put further pressure on finances, causing many of us – once again – to make changes to our spending patterns, the products we buy…10 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024It’sOURTIME now!‘Bouldering gave me such a buzz’Charlie Selbie, 41, from Tunbridge Wells in Kent, hoped to face her fear of heights and find a hobby she could enjoy on her own.I’ve always been an active person but, being scared of heights, I’ve tended to keep my feet firmly on the ground with activities such as running and the gym. Even getting into a ski lift on holiday can be quite traumatic for me. I have friends who love rock climbing and they’ve tried to get me to join them, but I couldn’t bear the thought of dangling off a cliff face.Then I heard about bouldering. It’s a type of climbing that can be done at any height, as you can make your way across horizontally as well as vertically on an…10 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024‘We have a life in the UK SURROUNDED BY KINDNESS’I didn’t hear the first explosion. I woke because my husband, Evgenii, was rushing around our bedroom, grabbing passports and important documents out of drawers. Confused, I asked what he was doing, then I heard the second blast. I looked out of the window to our street and all I saw was smoke.It was February 2022, and Evgenii and I were living with our two sons, Sasha, then aged four, and Vova, eight, in our apartment in Dnipro, one of Ukraine’s largest cities, in the east of the country. I stared at the destruction outside my bedroom window and, in tears, ran for my sons. I gave them each a small bag and told them to choose just a few of their favourite toys or books while I packed essentials…9 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024MICROBIOME SKINCAREThe skin’s microbiome houses billions of beneficial microorganisms – and balance is key. Disruption can cause inflammation, redness, itchiness and even eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and acne. That’s where microbiome skincare comes in; prebiotics nourish existing good bacteria, probiotics add more bacteria and postbiotics (produced when good bacteria break down prebiotics) provide extra essential proteins. Applied topically, they can strengthen your skin’s defences. The GHI experts tried out the latest microbiome-balancing products to find the best.JOINT WINNERGallinée Hydrating Face Cream, £35 82/100This cream boasts a powerful ‘Triple Biotic Complex’ of prebiotics, probiotics and lactic acid, as well as myrtle extract, an antioxidant that strengthens the skin’s barrier. Our testers agreed their skin felt instantly hydrated with an added glow. It was also easy to dispense and apply.BEST FOR SKIN FEELTula Skincare…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024My life inbeautyI’ve become more accepting of my features as I’ve got older. If only I could have felt like this when I was younger! But I think this is something that a lot of women feel. I’m currently reading a book called The Kindness Method by Shahroo Izadi, which is all about helping to reset negative habits, and that’s having quite a big impact on improving the way I talk to myself about my looks.While I do have a better relationship with my appearance these days, some of my earliest beauty memories are not particularly positive; they’re of being compared with lighter-skinned Indian friends at the age of six or seven. I don’t know whether it’s still the case now, but then it was quite a prevalent, pernicious thing in Indian…5 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024WALK THIS WAY… it’s easy & fun!We don’t need to remind you that briskly putting one foot in front of the other is the easiest and smartest way to get fit and healthy – walking’s menu of strength-building and calorie-burning benefits is legendary. But the same route, the same speed, the same view can get a bit, well, samey. Here’s how to rework your walks so they’re more beneficial, challenging and enjoyable.1 CURB THE COUNTINGSome people enjoy setting themselves a 10,000-steps-a-day target, but if you don’t, no sweat. The latest thinking is that this isn’t a non-negotiable rule. One of the reasons 10,000 steps has stayed logged in our brain is thanks to a clever marketing push when a Japanese pedometer inventor named his gadget Manpo-Kei, which translates as 10,000 steps; in other words, it’s not…11 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Going blue• GO NUTS FOR NUTSYou won’t find many blue zoners nibbling on biscuits or scoffing crisps. If they do snack, it will likely be on nuts – a great source of fibre and nutrients such as heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and disease-fighting antioxidants, which could extend your life expectancy.• BEANS MEANS……health. According to educator Dan Buettner, a passionate exponent of blue zone lifestyles, beans and pulses form ‘the cornerstone of every longevity diet in the world’ and just one portion a day could add several years to your lifespan.• DRINK TO THISExcessive alcohol is never going to be good for you. However, in four out of five blue zones, most adults had one or two drinks a day – often red wine, which is rich in flavonoids, a type of…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Welcome to the HOME OFTHE FUTUREOur homes are constantly evolving. We would never contemplate living the same way today as people did a century ago – since then, inside toilets, electricity and central heating have all become the norm. And the Good Housekeeping Institute has led the way in testing these innovations in home technology – everything from the first electric washing machines and fridges to dishwashers, microwaves and, now, the latest robot vacuums and air fryers.So what kinds of appliances and technology will the Good Housekeeping Institute be testing in the future? We can’t start to imagine how our homes will look 100 years from now without considering the environmental and economic crises we currently face. The way we live in 2124 will be a direct response to these. Added to the advances in…9 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024CREATE A CALM KITCHENHIDE AND SEEKKeep worktops clear with the exception of pieces that are used every day, such as chopping boards, butter dishes and salt and pepper grinders, which can be used decoratively and arranged to match, as shown here. In cupboards, keep shelves organised using clear, labelled glass jars for rice, pasta and suchlike (this will help you keep an eye on stock levels, too) and store your most-used items closest to the front. Bring order to drawers by decluttering them regularly and culling unnecessary utensils. China and glassware should be used in rotation – if anything is gathering dust, give it a new life by donating it to charity.ON THE MOVEKitchen islands are a dream for storage and organisation, but they can take up a huge amount of space, which…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024TURN YOUR BEDROOM INTO A SANCTUARYSIDE BENEFITSIf you have the space, consider maximising your storage by choosing a wide, deep bedside table with several drawers or shelves. Nighttime essentials are best kept close at hand, but don’t overload your surfaces. Keep books to a minimum (a stack can feel more like a to-do list) and store things such as hand cream out of sight. If you must sleep beside your mobile phone, tape its cable behind the table so it doesn’t trail on the floor. Swapping table lamps for low-hanging pendant lights will also help to create more space.THE PERFECT FITBuilt-in wardrobes are a brilliant way to keep clothes, footwear and accessories organised. Bespoke solutions allow you to specify the structure – if you have a lot of long dresses, for example, you can have…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Small but BEAUTIFUL• The Bowcombe Boathouse appears in Living In Country Style (Lannoo) by Brent Darby and Wink ColvilleWORDS: SUSY SMITH, WINK COLVILLE. PHOTOGRAPHY: BRENT DARBY THE BOWCOMBE BOATHOUSE CAN BE RENTED THROUGH TWOCABINS.COM…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Petrol by postcodeCONFUSED.COMSearch for the cheapest fuel options within five, 10 or 25 miles of a postcode. Data is updated weekly. We found that within one town, diesel prices differed by as much as 5p per litre, meaning that filling a 50L tank could be £2.50 cheaper.MY RAC FUEL FINDER APPAvailable to all motorists (not only RAC members), this app provides real-time prices at pumps within a two-, five- or 10-mile radius. The RAC says savings could be as much as £3.30 per 55L tank.CARWOW.CO.UKCarwow.co.uk/petrol-prices lists the cheapest options, updated daily. In our case, the cheapest tank of petrol saved 3p per litre, but this was available more than four miles away from our starting point.PETROLPRICESVia its website or free app, PetrolPrices shares up-to-date prices at all brands of petrol pump, using…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024PLASTIC-FREE SPONGESWINNERAll-in-One Loofah Scourer Sponges £11.99 for six, Composty 89/100Our top-scoring cellulose sponge is machine-washable at 30°C and features a loofah pad stitched on with organic cotton. It cleaned glasses and cutlery well, lifted stubborn dirt such as dried cereal or egg, and banished grease with ease, although more scrubbing was needed for burnt-on food residue. Most at-home testers said they’d recommend it.RUNNER-UPEco Sponges With Scourer £9.50 for four, Seep 85/100Machine-washable at 30°C, this sponge is, like our winner, comprised of a cellulose pad and a stitched-on loofah fibre pad. Testers were impressed with its ability to lift stubborn food residue, and glassware was left sparkling. Shifting burnt-on food proved slightly more of a challenge.∗ HOW WE TESTEDOur experts tested the absorbency of each sponge before assessing how well it cleaned…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024GH FOODBLOOMING LOVELYThe pleasure of fresh sourdough is hard to capture if you’re buying it in a bag, but Bertinet Bakery’s new half-bloomers come darned close. In three flavours – Rustic Country White; Potato, Polenta & Onion;
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Made to shareRhubarb, Orange and Rose PavlovaFlamboyant in all the right ways. You can of course just spoon or pipe the meringue into a circle rather than a heart.Hands-on time 30min, plus cooling. Cooking time 1hr. Serves 6FOR THE MERINGUE• 3 medium egg whites• 150g caster sugar• ½tsp white wine vinegar• ½tsp cornflourFOR THE TOPPING• 250g rhubarb• 50g caster sugar• Finely grated zest and juice ½ orange• ¼tsp rose water• 300ml double creamTO DECORATE, OPTIONAL• Dried or fresh food-safe rose buds/petals• Pared orange zest1 Preheat oven to 140°C (120°C) mark 1. Draw a 20.5cm square on a sheet of baking parchment, then draw a heart within the square, making it as tall and wide as possible. Place on a baking sheet, flipping the parchment so the ink is underneath.2 For the meringue,…8 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Good times with… LeAnn Rimes“Some of my songs are very much under my skin”The last great film you saw… No Hard Feelings starring Jennifer Lawrence. She’s hysterical – I laughed so much.The film you could watch over and over… The first time I saw Love Actually I didn’t like it – then I gave it a second chance and I fell in love.The performance that made you cry… Honestly, my own! Some of my songs are very much under my skin, like Spaceship and Innocent.The podcast you loved… The Diary Of A CEO. The host, Steven Bartlett, is such an in-depth interviewer.The last boxset you binged on… The Morning Show with Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon. It demonstrates the chaos of live TV really well.Top of your TV planner… I grew up watching The…1 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024‘I wanted to write aboutPEOPLE LIKE ME’Sairish Hussain was only nine when she first learned about the Partition of India from watching a film. ‘It was quite a famous Indian film called Gadar – it’s how all the millennial generation learned about Partition,’ she says, smiling. It wasn’t until the 70th anniversary in 2017, and a series of documentaries the BBC ran to mark the event, that she saw the potential for a novel about this difficult period in Indian history. ‘I remember being horrified by what I saw. Anita Rani interviewed lots of elderly men for her documentary (My Family, Partition And Me: India 1947) and every single one of them cried; the emotion just poured out of them. Around that time, I was at my grandmother’s house in Bradford, and in her neighbourhood I…6 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Sail away!BE THE FIRST ON A NEW SHIP● More than 12 ocean ships are due to make their debut in 2024, and the first to arrive is by far the biggest. Holding up to 7,600 passengers and stretching over a mind-boggling 18 guest decks, Icon of the Seas is the newest leviathan from Royal Caribbean International (royalcaribbean.com/gbr). More of a floating resort than a cruise ship, this queen of the seas brims with attractions and promises the biggest waterpark at sea, featuring six waterslides, seven swimming pools, a Central Park area filled with thousands of plants and an AquaDome – a buzzing entertainment space housed in a vast glass dome with an incredible 55ft waterfall. Caribbean cruises from Miami, including a stop at Royal Caribbean’s private resort island, Perfect Day at…4 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024TRAVEL with the EXPERTS…One of the most exciting things about the new year is planning your annual holidays. So, if you’d like a getaway with a difference – and a break that’s on-trend this year – look no further than our fascinating selection of handpicked tours in the company of esteemed experts. Our celebrity guests elevate your trip by providing a unique experience you won’t get anywhere else. From cooking masterclasses and private talks to guided walks and intimate tours, gain insights into the magic and charm of your destination from those who know it best. Read on for the highlights or visit goodhousekeeping.com/uk/experts, or scan the QR code on this page to discover the full expert-led collection from Good Housekeeping Holidays. Book them before they’re gone!Gaby HuddartEDITORIAL DIRECTORgaby.huddart@hearst.co.ukVISIT MADEIRA’S FLOWER FESTIVAL WITH…5 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Cruise the VENETIAN LAGOON with exclusive after-hours sightseeingWith its beautiful labyrinth of canals and peaceful waterways, a luxurious river cruise is the ideal way to explore everything the Venetian Lagoon has to offer – from the waterfront shops and colourful facades of the city to the islands of Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello.Over the course of the week, you’ll see the highlights and hidden gems of the Veneto. Step inside the awe-inspiring St Mark’s Basilica after nightfall to witness a peaceful lighting ceremony, and venture inside the church on Torcello before it opens to the public. Also included in the itinerary is VIP access to the Doge’s Palace during an early-morning visit.Whether you want to join walking tours to learn more about the history of the lagoon or cycle along the beaches of Chioggia, there’ll be plenty to…4 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Stay and dine at LE MANOIR AUX QUAT’SAISONSIndulge your love of fine food at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Raymond Blanc’s sumptuous Oxfordshire manor, with our exceptional springtime offer.The two Michelin-starred chef has created a unique culinary experience here and, in 2024, the hotel marks its 40th birthday. We’re giving you the chance to celebrate the original garden-to-table experience in style with a very special overnight stay.You’ll be welcomed with a glass of chilled Champagne and later on you’ll take a tour of Le Manoir’s gardens and orchards with a senior gardener, witnessing first-hand how the hotel’s menus are prepared seasonally, according to the ethos of garden gastronomy. You’ll get to taste the fruits of this philosophy as you dine on an exceptional five-course dinner in the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant.After your day exploring and dining,…2 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Sail the MEKONG RIVER through CAMBODIA and VIETNAMThe magnificent Mekong River, one of the longest rivers in Asia, winds gracefully past lush green paddy fields in Vietnam along to Cambodia’s elaborate temples through its capital, Phnom Penh.This 17-day adventure includes a seven-night Uniworld cruise along the Mekong in a luxury balcony suite aboard all-suite Mekong Jewel. On board, you’ll find two dining venues, including an alfresco eatery on the upper deck, plus a swimming pool, spa, sauna and steam room, two lounges and a library.You’ll spend two days in Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll witness ancient history melding with the energetic present. There will also be 13 excellent excursions included, all fully hosted by local, English-speaking experts.In the city of Phnom Penh, you’ll discover the brutal history of the Khmer Rouge regime and the infamous Killing…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024Indulge in a blissful escape at RAGDALE HALL SPALooking to invest in some me-time this year? Whether you choose our exclusive offer of up to 35% off a two-night stay, or you book on to one of our special reader events, which include a welcome event and an exclusive evening hosted by Good Housekeeping, you’ll leave Ragdale Hall recharged and well-rested.You’ll also be thoroughly pampered – two 40-minute treatments are included in this exclusive offer – and have lots of time to relax in Ragdale’s thermal spa, where 12 heat and water experiences and six pools, including an award-winning rooftop infinity pool, await.ENJOY TWO LUXURY TREATMENTSSpoil yourself with not one but two complimentary 40-minute treatments – choose from the Body Massage, Prescription Facial, Classic Manicure or Moisturising Lavender Body Treatment.ALL MEALS INCLUDEDBreakfast, lunch and dinner are included throughout…3 min
Good Housekeeping UK|February 2024My simple pleasuresMartha lives in Suffolk with her husband, Chris Shaw.BAKING BREADThere’s nothing better than freshly baked bread. My mother taught me her recipe for Irish soda bread and whenever I can get hold of buttermilk, I make it for friends and family. Some of them call it ‘Martha’s cake bread’ because it’s rather rich!WATCHING THE BBC’S DETECTORISTSAs soon as I hear the theme tune, my heart fifills with joy. It’s extremely funny. I once interviewed Mackenzie Crook and was such a fangirl that I think I slightly terrifified him!MY BIRTHDAY SWIMAbout 10 years ago, Chris and I were in Ireland for my birthday in October. In a place called Flaggy Shore, I saw a group of older ladies who were swimming in the sea and thought, ‘If they can do it,…2 min
