As part of its long-term partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, Boots UK is selling a variety of products to raise funds for the charity, including a stylish reusable lunch bag designed by renowned textile icon Celia Birtwell for Boots Shapers. The bag, which costs just £1 and features Birtwell’s eye-catching imagery, is the perfect size for a Boots Shapers Meal Deal, and is available now in the food department of 300 Boots stores nationwide.

As well the stylish lunch bag, Boots will also be selling pretty Star Bag Charms, costing £1, with all proceeds going to Macmillan Cancer Support. By purchasing these limited edition products, Boots customers have the chance to show their support for Macmillan and help improve the lives of people affected by cancer.

Through their long-term partnership, Macmillan Cancer Support and Boots UK want to improve the lives of everyone affected by cancer. Together they are delivering more ways to access information about living with cancer to the high street, in local communities and online. For example, Macmillan Cancer Support is training 15,000 Boots pharmacists, dispensers and healthcare assistants on the issues surrounding cancer, and the advice support and services that are available to them through Macmillan Cancer Support. Customers are also able to pick up a leaflet with general information about cancer across the close to 2,500 Boots UK stores.

· The Celia Birtwell bag will be on sale until 22nd March 2011 in 300 Boots stores, with all proceeds going to Macmillan Cancer Support

· The £1 Star bag charm will be available in all Boots stores until 17th May, with all proceeds going to Macmillan Cancer Support

About Macmillan Cancer Support

Macmillan Cancer Support is the UK’s leading cancer support charity. They provide practical, emotional and financial support. They help people affected by cancer get in contact with others via www.macmillan.org.uk/onlinecommunitites.

Macmillan Cancer Support fund over 5,000 specialist health care professionals and have over 175 cancer care centres. They have over 900 cancer self help groups.

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A SIGNED RED NOSE DAY T-SHIRT IN A TK MAXX STORE NEAR YOU
Visit TK Maxx stores in Manchester, London, Leeds, Newcastle, Belfast, Cambridge, Liverpool, Cardiff, Glasgow and Birmingham from Monday 14th February through to Monday 14th March and you could be the lucky winner of an exclusive Red Nose Day T-shirt as worn and signed by a range of celebrities.

To win these special customised T-shirts, simply fill out your details and submit an entry form in store. The winner will be selected at random on Monday 14th March 2011, and will be notified in time for Red Nose Day on Friday 18th March 2011.

Vivienne’s T-shirts are an eclectic collection of striking black and white prints that represent a unique fusion of humour and iconic historical images. The designs feature Rowan Atkinson as ‘Edmund’ and Miranda Richardson as ‘Queenie’ from the Blackadder series, William Shakespeare, The Laughing Audience by Hogarth, a Punk Girl and a Louis XVI Lady. There is also a Pirate design and a Mother and Baby Elephant, reminiscent of the days of the Raj, especially for children. All T-shirts feature Comic Relief’s signature Red Nose.

The full collection of T-shirts is now on sale online and in TK Maxx stores nationwide. Prices are from £5.99 for a kids’ T-shirt to £14.99 for a ladies slim fit T-shirt. All net profits from sales of the range will go to Comic Relief.

The T-shirts have been wholly manufactured in Africa. 100% of the cotton has been sourced from Fairtrade certified organic cotton co-operatives in Mali. This ensures good quality, pesticide and GM-free cotton and a fair price to farmers in developing countries.

A donation from the displayed and signed T-Shirt has already been paid to Comic Relief by TK Maxx.

Details and Prices:
Adults
Unisex T-shirt (XS-XL)
Shakespeare, Blackadder Queenie, Blackadder Edmund and The Laughing Audience By Hogarth
£9.99 with at least £5.00 going to Comic Relief

Slim Fit T-shirt (XS-XL)
Punk Girl and Louis XVI Lady
£14.99 with at least £7.00 going to Comic Relief

Slim Fit Vest (XS-L)
Punk Girl
£14.99 with at least £7.00 going to Comic Relief

THE SLEEP ROOM LAUNCHES NEW LAZY LINEN AND BED LINEN BUNDLES
Not only does The Sleep Room offer stylish and affordable beds online, they are also launching the beautiful Lazy Linen bedding collection as part of their new furniture and accessories ranges; offering everything you could possibly need for the bedroom in one handy place.

Despite its luxurious feel and high-quality content the Lazy Linen collection, named as such because it doesn’t need to be ironed, doesn’t cost the earth either. Made from 100% Belgian linen the sheets, duvet covers and pillow cases can simply be hung up to dry for a relaxed, laid-back look that also helps to save on chores.

The on-trend muted pastels and neutral tones are available in white, light grey, natural and dusty pink; the colours can be combined with for a chic mix and match style.

What’s more, to make life even easier and your pocket a little lighter, The Sleep Room is now offering the Lazy Linen collection as a “Bundle Deal” as opposed to buying the items individually. By bundling up you can get one fitted sheet, a pair of pillow cases and a duvet cover for £155 instead of the normal price of £180.

The Sleep Room offers quality and stylish beds, mattresses, bedroom furniture and accessories online, that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. Their ethos is to provide a hassle-free experience that includes reliable delivery, good value and a comfortable night’s sleep. Lazy Linen is priced from £15 for a pillow case and £155 for a Bed Linen Bundle

thesleeproom.com 0845 459 9937

Keep in touch with us on twitter: http://twitter.com/thesleeproom

LIV LAUNCHES NEW SS11 LUXURY ECO COLLECTION
Following on from the unprecedented success of their AW collection, LIV, the luxurious eco/organic lifestyle brand brought to you by Elysia, the distributors behind Dr.Hauschka, is pleased to announce the launch of their NEW Spring / Summer collection, available from 1st March 2011. The delicately knitted cotton used in SS11 is both 100% fairly traded and organic and is sourced and manufactured in India under the strictest environmental and ethical practices, highlighting their commitment to sustainability and embodying everything that Liv and Elysia stand for.

Liv’s fashion and knitwear designer Dawn Foxall, the talent behind the concept and design of Liv’s new collection, says: “Liv wears its heart on its sleeve; it is transparent to the beholder in how it is produced, how it is designed, and how it makes you feel when you are wearing it. I design to create beautiful, desirable and comfortable pieces which make women feel good, from the inside out.”

The collection features key pieces such as the Hanbury Maxi Dress and Gannow Dress which together create the perfect chic holiday wardrobe, be it in a relaxing Tuscan retreat or on a yacht in St Tropez. The cotton is knitted exceptionally lightly to ensure the collection can be worn in comfort and style, no matter the temperature.
Price points: £35 - £165. For more information on Liv please visit www.liv.co.uk

JOIN A WELSH CHEESE MASTERCLASS AND CELEBRATE ST DAVID’S DAY - TUESDAY 1 MARCH 2011
Avid cheese fans should flock to John Lewis on Oxford Street to join in one of three exclusive Welsh Cheese Masterclasses to celebrate St David’s Day. The very best of Welsh Cheese will be in London for a Cheese Masterclass at John Lewis Foodhall, Oxford Street. Guests attending the Masterclasses on Tuesday 1 March will be introduced to a range of delicious Welsh cheeses, with the opportunity to taste and learn how the cheeses are produced, and how their differing characteristics are developed.

Cheese expert, David Edwards, will be at the John Lewis Foodhall at 17:15, 18:15 and 19:15 offering tutored tastings of traditional Welsh cheeses including Gorwydd Caerphilly, soft cheeses like Perl Wen and Golden Cenarth, and semi soft, hard, washed rind and blue cheeses. The 30 minute Masterclass and tasting is free to attend and places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. For a confirmed place on a Masterclass it is recommended to register in advance with staff at the John Lewis Foodhall or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

True Taste Award-winner and winner of the Supreme Champion Award at the 2010 British Cheese Awards, Carwyn Adams will also be on-hand with top tasting tips and for three lucky winners there will be the chance to take home a hamper full of the tasty Welsh Cheeses.

In recent years, Wales has led the charge in producing artisan food and drink. Innovative cheese varieties and the long-established Welsh Caerphilly are now being produced across the country by small, artisan dairies as well as larger more established producers. Wales the True Taste Award-winning cheeses include varieties as wide-ranging as the traditional Caerphilly from Gorwydd, and the smooth and creamy Pembrokeshire Extra Mature Cheddar, to Golden Cenarth, an organic washed rind soft cheese with a pungent aroma and Hafod Cheese, a buttery, nutty flavoured cheese made with raw Ayrshire milk.

A selection of the cheeses included in the Masterclass are available from the John Lewis Foodhall, Oxford Street and Waitrose nationwide and will be available to taste in the John Lewis Foodhall from 11:30am until 14:30pm and 17:30pm until 19:30pm on 1 March 2011.

The tasting will take place at the John Lewis Foodhall, 300 Oxford Street, London W1A 1EX. Registering in advance is recommended to guarantee a place in a Cheese Masterclass. Register in advance with staff at the John Lewis Foodhall or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The Cheese Masterclass is part of a wider St David’s Day celebration at the John Lewis Foodhall. Other Wales True Taste Award-wining producers featured at John Lewis include The Anglesey Sea Salt Company, Tan y Castell, Rhug Estate, The Welsh Whisky Company, The Patchwork Traditional Food Company, The Fresh Pasta Company, Rachel’s, Bacheldre Watermill, Tregroes Waffles and Ty Nant Spring Water.

The Wales the True Taste Awards were founded in 2002 and are managed by the Welsh Assembly Government. Year-on-year the Awards recognise and reward quality and excellence in Welsh food and drink. For more information about the awards please visit: www.truetaste.tv or www.walesthetruetaste.co.uk

Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict
If you love cheese you will love this event, we have seen a sample of the selection of cheeses included in the Masterclasses and they are delicious, so do try and celebrate St David’s Day by supporting this event. Highly Recommended!


THE NEW YORK BAKERY BREAKFAST CLUB – The world’s first early morning musical with smash-hit show Grease –

Grease is certainly the word when it comes to best-loved musicals and now you can catch a performance of the 1950s American high school hit show over a bagel breakfast for the first time ever.

New York Bakery Co has worked with producers to condense the best bits of the show into a 20-minute bite-sized burst of entertainment on Thursday 24th March for early birds who fancy starting their day the New York bagel-way.

The unique performance will include four musical numbers - Grease Is The Word, Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’ and You’re the One That I Want - plus a finale. The special show will be enjoyed over a bagel breakfast. Not only is this a first for musicals, but it will also be one of the last chances for Londoners to see the show as it moves on tour across the UK.

The early morning musical starts at 0830 at the Piccadilly Theatre – the home of Grease for the past three years – and you can get your hands on two free tickets for you and a friend by emailing your interest to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Doors will open and a bagel breakfast will be served from 0800.

Michael Havard-Bilton, Marketing Director of Grease, comments:

“A musical performed this early in the morning has never been done before, it’s a unique concept that we’re excited to be part of. The feel good factor of the show coupled with a healthy bagel breakfast is a brilliant start to anyone’s day. We hope the audience will love the concept as much as us so the New York Bakery Breakfast Club can be rolled out across the country.”

New York Bakery Co has masterminded a delicious brand new recipe for an authentic New York taste. They’re chewy on the outside, soft in the middle – the way bagels should be. Period.
Visit www.newyorkbakery.co.uk for more information or check out New York Bakery Co on Facebook – www.facebook.com/newyorkbakery

ART IS AT THE HEART OF GREAT BRITAIN
The Affordable Art Fair: 10 – 13 March 2011 in Battersea Park, London

Returning to London’s Battersea Park from 10 – 13 March 2011 is the well-loved and much-anticipated Affordable Art Fair (AAF). Now in its thirteenth year, the fair will host 120 galleries exhibiting paintings, prints, sculpture and photography, now priced between £100 and £4,000.

The recent AAF in October 2010 proved that Britain’s love of art continues to flourish: 22,500 art-lovers visited Battersea Park spending a total of £4.25 million. With consistently rising visitor numbers over the last decade AAF has long since known the British are a nation of culture vultures. Recent research supports this by revealing we spend more than £31.9 billion a year on creative activities – for example attending museums, art exhibitions and plays – and two in five of us believe that ‘the arts’ are a huge part of what makes Britain great.*

Fair founder Will Ramsay explains how art can enhance your life:

“People often look to art for inspiration and new perspectives of everyday life. Art collecting can be fun, enlightening and is often exhilarating, adding a touch of colour to our world!”

So why not embrace your cultural heritage as one of the 93% in the UK who attends an artistic event this year?*

AAF’s successful formula of making art accessible to all has become a global phenomenon, with fairs now in Amsterdam, Brussels, New York, Melbourne, Singapore and Sydney – and AAF Milan launches in February 2011.

* first direct Colourful Lives report by the Future Foundation, October 2010
Information: 0208 246 4848
Tickets: 0870 777 2255
Website: www.affordableartfair.co.uk
The Affordable Art Fair, London – Spring Collection 2011
Venue: Battersea Park, London
Dates: Thursday 10 – Sunday 13 March 2011

Times
Wednesday 9 March Charity Private View 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Thursday 10 March 11am – 5.30pm (Late View 5.30pm – 9.30pm)
Friday 11 March 11am – 6pm
Saturday 12 March 11am – 6pm
Sunday 13 March 11am – 6pm

Ticket Prices
In advance On the door

Late View £20 £20

Thursday & Friday £10 £12
Concessions £8 £10

Saturday & Sunday £12 £15
Concessions £10 £13

Children under 16 Free

Transport
By public transport:
- Train from Victoria train station to Battersea Park or Waterloo to Queenstown Road
- Bus no 44, 137, 156, 344, 452
- Free shuttle bus from Sloane Square every 15 minutes
By car:
- Limited free parking next to the marquee (via Chelsea Bridge entrance only), along with pay and display parking in Battersea Park and surrounding streets

APPRECIATE YOUR MUM WITH THORNTONS THIS MOTHER’S DAY

At Thorntons we appreciate our mums and we are sure you do too, which is why Thorntons is holding a nationwide competition over the next six weeks, to find Thorntons Mum of the Year.

The six finalists, chosen at the end of April, will be invited with their families and our celebrity ambassador, Patsy Palmer, for an intimate champagne and chocolate tasting awards party in London. The lucky winner will be treated to a spa and hotel break courtesy of Macdonald’s Hotels, and of course some delicious Thorntons treats. To nominate your wonderful mum, simply fill out a form in store, explaining why your mum is the best, and Thorntons will give you a complimentary chocolate as an extra little indulgence.

What better way to show your mum how much you appreciate her, than with your personalised message iced on a heart-shaped chocolate plaque, surround by six decadent milk chocolate hearts, filled with a smooth truffle centre.

Our best-selling “I love Mum cups” are just the right thing for those pocket money gifts, and are made with Thorntons finest milk and white chocolate, and filled with smooth truffle centre - simply divine.

Show your mum how sweet she is to you, with a bag a scrummy heart-shaped marshmallows, that simply say “I love mummy” and I’m sure the little ones will love them too.

For the ultimate indulgence, why not treat your mum to Thorntons Continental Chocolatier tasting collection. Share the wonders and a
selection of delicious new chocolates, these beautiful boxes of Continental by Thorntons offer the perfect gift for the perfect mother.

Spoil your mum rotten with this gorgeous heart shaped box containing a scrumptious selection of chocolates. Packed with truffles, mousses and pralines, smothered in milk, white and dark chocolate. If you are lucky, she might share one with you!
(www.thorntons.co.uk)

TREAT YOUR MOTHER TO AN IDYLLIC FRENCH GETAWAY
This year, treat your mother with an escape to the beautiful vineyard & spa estate of Les Jardins de Saint Benoît in the heart of the picturesque Languedoc region.

Throughout May, Les Jardins de Saint Benoît, part of the Garrigae Resorts collection, is offering the following package for two:

· Two nights in a village townhouse
· Authentic gourmet French breakfast each morning
· A two hour massage for Madame
· Complimentary spa access

Situated in the heart of Cathar country, this beautiful riverside estate consists of traditional Mediterranean village houses (some with private gardens and pools), set in 20 acres of vineyards, olive groves, and a patchwork of renovated 12th Century Medieval gardens. Les Jardins de Saint Benoît is an extension of the picturesque wine-making village of Saint Laurent de la Cabrerisse and is a perfect example of Garrigae’s flair for providing its guest with an unspoilt, authentic French experience.


Ladies will love the indulgent spa at Les Jardins which uses locally-sourced natural ingredients from the surrounding area in their relaxing, tailor-made treatments, while the centuries-old wine making traditions and gastronomic delights of the Languedoc offered in the resort’s own vineyards and restaurant will excite gourmands. In the surrounding area, fishing villages, beaches, ancient market towns, and mountains are close by and ready to be discovered.

For a Mother’s Day treat to remember, this package for the perfect French getaway is available throughout April (excluding bank holidays) and costs from £425 (for two persons). For more information or to book visit www.garrigaeresorts.com or call +33 (0) 4 67 11 87 15

STAY IN ONE UNIQUE PLACE AND VISIT ANOTHER WITH MERCURE HOTELS AND THE NATIONAL TRUST

For a stay in the UK with a difference and the opportunity to explore some of the unique town and countryside places in the areas surrounding its stylish hotels, Mercure is offering a special package this spring.

Guests booking one night’s bed and breakfast at one of over 30 Mercure hotels around the UK will receive free entry for two adults to visit one of over 200 National Trust places. The special offer is available to customers booking stays from 1st March to 31st May 2011, with packages starting from £79 for two people. For more information, please visit www.mercure-uk.com/nationaltrust or call 0871 702 9409.

In addition, guests staying at a Mercure hotel who use their National Trust / Mercure admission pass can enjoy two months’ free membership when taking out an annual membership, simply by redeeming the pass on arrival.

· Explore the glorious parkland and admire the impressive Georgian architecture of Basildon Park from Mercure George Hotel Reading
· Venture into the home of the late George Bernard Shaw ‘Shaw's Corner’ a fascinating 1902 Arts & Crafts house from Mercure Letchworth Hall Hotel
· Visit Washington Old Hall, a picturesque stone manor house that captures the gentry life following the turbulence of the English Civil War from Mercure Newcastle George Washington Hotel Golf and Spa
· Visit some of London’s hidden architectural gems from Mercure London Bloomsbury Hotel
· Discover Cliveden, the spectacular country estate overlooking the River Thames from Mercure Windsor Castle Hotel

In fact, there are fascinating places to visit around each of the Mercure properties.

Mercure hotels are renowned for their individual character, which reflect their local setting, even down to the selection of fine regional wines on offer and the menu of locally sourced produce featuring dishes distinctive to the region of each hotel. So, after a day of exploring the local area guests can relax and savour the local gastronomy too.

Melissa Micallef, Marketing Manager for Mercure, comments, "Mercure hotels are set in the heart of historic cities and in scenic countryside full of fascinating places just waiting to be discovered. This provides the perfect opportunity to explore some of the UK’s most beautiful historic houses and gardens this spring and enjoy time well spent together with family and friends; combining memorable days with a relaxing stay.”

GARDENING VITAL FOR STAYING CONNECTED WITH NATURE, SAYS HRH THE PRINCE OF WALES
UK gardeners have a key role in maintaining the link with natural world and it is vital for them to “sow the seed for future generations”, according to HRH The Prince of Wales, in an exclusive feature for Gardeners’ World magazine. Writing in the magazine’s 20th anniversary edition, The Prince of Wales talks of his influences and passion for gardening, environmental convictions, the role gardeners can play in being “the change you want to see in the world” and his hopes for a gardening legacy.

According to His Royal Highness: “The garden is an expression of what I hold dear – an essential harmony and connection with nature…We are planting for the future, so that those who come after us can reap the benefit of what has been planted.” In the article The Prince of Wales talks about the scepticism that initially greeted his organic approach: “When it became known that I was gardening ‘organically’, there was much conjecture as to whether I was in my right mind or not….. it is perhaps no longer thought of as quite such an ‘alternative’ and cranky approach.”

He advises gardeners to encourage wildlife: “Encourage and enjoy the biodiversity and the garden becomes the balanced entity that we are looking for on a far larger scale in the world.”

On gardening and the environment he writes: “Gardeners can be key players in addressing environmental issues as many have a wealth of knowledge about the natural world, are connected through their gardens with Nature.”

His Royal Highness urges the nation to take up the cause of growing their own fruit and vegetables: “It is so encouraging to see the number of people starting to grow their own food, whether in their gardens, allotments or containers. Although this will not resolve the problem of food security, it does start the process of individuals thinking locally and encouraging social networks, which are important for community cohesion.” He continues: “For those who have not yet been caught by the desire to grow, it is for us gardeners to encourage and guide and assist….We must sow the seed for future generations, since many children no longer know where food comes from and how it is produced.”

On his gardening legacy at Highgrove he writes: “Highgrove may encourage people to garden in a sustainable and environmentally sound way; which is in harmony with Nature…and maybe for those who never gardened, provides inspiration to show what can be done in a mere few decades.”

The full feature appears in March’s Gardeners’ World magazine, on sale now, priced at £3.70.

PAUL EDMONDS-LIGHT THE WAY
Renowned beauty pioneer Paul Edmonds believes that “memories and emotions are tied closely to smells and perfume”. With this in mind, the brands newest venture is an exclusive collection of premium candles, the first three of which are limited edition and have been inspired by Paul’s mother and two daughters.

Having launched the first ever designer aromatherapy haircare range in the UK, his years of experience and study on the powerful benefits of essential oils have given him a unique insight into creating this beautiful new line. Burnt in both beloved Knightsbridge salons, Paul wanted to allow his ever-loyal clients to be able to take a little of the 25 year old brands luxury and calming ambiance away with them.

The candles, epitomising Paul’s attention to detail and passion, are hand poured to ensure that they burn evenly, and with each wick measured to banish remaining residue, they omit an array of enveloping fragrances and burn for hours. Encased in opaque dark glass and embellished with the gold Paul Edmonds logo the design marries both the brands heritage and contemporary edge.

Introducing this new lifestyle enterprise, are the first three limited edition candles created in memory of Paul’s mother and inspired by his daughters who have always admired their father’s holistic approach to everything he does. The following hypnotic blends reflect each woman’s individual character:

ALICE – “Naturally beautiful, genuine, kind, passionate and protective of her family as a lioness would be with her cubs. She adored her garden with all its blousy old English roses”.
A calming and alluring blend of rose, geranium, jasmine and patchouli.
10% of sales of the limited edition “Alice” candle will be donated to The Motor Neurone Disease Charity.

LUCIE – “Beautiful and strong yet sensitive, she loves the open air, foreign travel, great art and design”.
An evocative mix of warm green fig and heady Moroccan spices.

NAOMI – “sweet, loving, gregarious and feisty, she loves to be the centre of attention with her light hearted fun ways. For the girl who always gets what she wants”.
A seductive and potent elixir of blackcurrant, rose, geranium and sandalwood.

With the next blends already underway, the Paul Edmonds customer will be able to introduce an aspect of this celebrated brand into their own homes.

The candles start at £34 and can be purchased from Paul Edmonds London, 217 Brompton Road, London SW3 2EJ
Available to order on 0844 770 9410 www.pauledmonds.com

ICHI SUSHI AND SASHIMI BAR PARK PLAZA WESTMINSTER BRIDGE CELEBRATES ITS FIRST BIRTHDAY
Ichi Sushi & Sashimi Bar, a cool and contemporary intimate Japanese restaurant that serves delicious sushi and sashimi in the heart of London’s South Bank, is celebrating its first birthday next month. In honour of the occasion, Chef Sadayuki Okamoto has created a special menu to showcase some of his finest dishes for the set price of £44 per person which includes a 135ml carafe of sake. All of the dishes are created to order by a team of expert sushi chefs led by master sushi chef Sadayuki Okamoto, who began in his career in Japan more than 30 years ago.

Guests will be able to choose a tasting selection of dishes including a starter, roll selection, nigiri and sashimi, sushi or hand rolls and a special birthday dessert. The celebratory menu comprises a variety of the best quality fresh fish including sake (salmon), hamachi (yellow tail tuna), maguro (tuna), unagi kabayaki (eel), hotategai (scallops), botan ebi (sweet shrimp) and orange tobiko (flying fish roe). Special dishes will include: Muzuki (seaweed grown on sea rock served with sweet vinegar) and seared tuna jalapeno.

Situated at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London hotel, the sleek restaurant has a choice of seating at the sushi bar watching the skilled sushi chefs at work, or at tables throughout the restaurant with seating for up to 30 people. Open daily for lunch (from 12 to 2:30pm) and dinner (from 5:30pm to 10:30pm), the sushi bar is perfect for every occasion from a quick healthy lunch with friends, a business lunch, a pre-theatre dinner or a romantic date.
www.ichisushi.co.uk

Located on the vibrant South Bank opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London is only steps from the city’s most iconic attractions including the London Eye, London Aquarium and Royal Festival Hall. Spacious guest rooms, which include 54 suites and penthouses, provide a host of boutique touches alongside thoughtful amenities. Distinctive dining options include Brasserie Joël, Ichi Sushi and Sashimi Bar, 1WB Lounge, espressamente illy coffee bar and for cocktails, the stylish Primo Bar.

PERFECT YOUR COOKING SKILLS WITH RICHARD CORRIGAN, CELEBRITY CHEF AND STAR OF ?CHANNEL 4’S COOKERY SCHOOL
Renowned for its superb seafood dishes, Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill is delighted to offer fish master classes with head chef and owner Richard Corrigan. For those wanting to learn how to dress crab, prepare the perfect lobster, shuck oysters, correctly fillet fish and make the ultimate traditional fish and chips, then this is the place to be.
The one day classes take place on Saturday 26th March, Saturday 14th May and Saturday 8th October 2011. Priced at £295 per person, each class includes a cooking session from 10am until 12.30pm followed by a lunch with matched wines, including dishes mastered on the course such as Lobster Cocktail, Beer Battered Fish and Irish Soda Bread. Additional guests can also attend the lunch for an extra £90 pp, making this an extraordinary and unique day out with a special person.

To coincide with the launch of his master classes, Richard can also be seen turning everyday cooks into great chefs on his new Channel 4 show “CookerySchool”. The programme is aired each weekday on Channel 4 at 2:10pm.

For more information, availability or to book please contact Tasting Places on 0208 964 5333 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

TOP FIVE ADVENTURES FOR 2011 IN THE SILVER STATE OF NEVADA
From alien spotting and living like a cowboy to digging for opals and white water rafting, the silver state of Nevada has many different experiences for the adventurous traveller.

JOIN THE COWBOYS AT COTTONWOOD RANCH FOR THEIR ANNUAL CATTLE DRIVE

Head to Cottonwood Ranch this summer for their annual cattle drives and enjoy a true taste of “Wild West” living. Cottonwood is a working horse and cattle ranch located at an elevation of 6,200 ft. in the remote north-eastern corner of Nevada. The Smith family own and live on the ranch, carrying on their daily and seasonal duties as they have for five generations, with the only difference being that now guests can be included in everything they do. In June, July and August you can join the team on a cattle drive where two full days are spent working cattle and enjoying life at the ranch and on the range. Guests then head out on the horse drive for three exhilarating days and two nights camping under the stars before riding into ranch headquarters for a final, celebratory night.

GO DIGGING FOR OPALS AT THE ROYAL PEACOCK MINE

Opal season begins in May when the Royal Peacock Mine opens for business! Located in the Virgin Valley in north-western Nevada, visitors can hire their own equipment – shovel, ice pick, bucket, squirty water bottle – and go digging for this precious gem. Whatever you find, you are allowed to keep! Spectacular finds even include the rare Black Fire Opal. Several commercial mining operations and more than 200 private claims are currently working the Virgin Valley opal deposits, producing not only the prized Black Opal, but also Fire Opals of many hues. Millions of dollars in opals have been taken from the Virgin Valley since 1905. The most famous of these, the Robeling Opal, and 14 other spectacular examples are on display in the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.

SURVIVE THE LONELIEST ROAD IN AMERICA

One of the best ways to experience Nevada is to travel Highway 50 -- the so-called "Loneliest Road in America." Stretching for 287.0 miles from east to west across the state, Highway 50 is a fascinating scenic and historic corridor through a land seemingly untouched by man. Drivers will pass through historic mining towns and cemeteries, state parks and remnants of the Pony Express route are visible for much of the way. Visitors can also either download a free survival kit at www.travelnevada.co.uk <http://www.travelnevada.co.uk> or pick one up at various locations in every town. After completing the survival kit, travelers may receive a survival certificate, a route 50 lapel pin, and a bumper sticker announcing that they have survived the “Loneliest Road in America”.

GO ALIEN SPOTTING IN SOUTHERN NEVADA

Journey 147 miles north of Las Vegas and you will find the Extraterrestrial Highway (Highway 375) in Sand Spring Valley. Highway 375 stretches for 98 miles and the tiny town of Rachel is a popular stopping point for UFO fans hoping to learn more about the highway and the mysterious former nuclear testing facility, Area 51. The E.T. Highway earned its moniker in April 1996, thanks to the hundreds of claims of UFO sightings along the lonely stretch of road, which is close to top-secret Area 51. Even today, visitors and locals report seeing strange lights in the night sky. As a result, the E.T. Highway draws hundreds of curious visitors. Day-trippers from Las Vegas routinely stop in Rachel before venturing off to hopefully discover the unexpected. The Little A’Le’Inn, Rachel’s local restaurant, bar and inn, is the ideal place to chat with residents about recent “sightings.”

WHITE WATER RAFTING AT THE TRUCKEE RIVER WHITEWATER PARK

For adventure enthusiasts who are looking to get a little wet then head to the Truckee River Whitewater Park in downtown Reno. The half mile course includes 11 drop pools, rodeo holes and Nevada’s first permanent kayak slalom racing course. Visitors to the course can enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking, and inner tubing and the park is surrounded by a grassy park with amphitheatre and facilities for concerts, festivals, picnics, outdoor sports and recreation. Best of all, the park is open year round and it is free for all visitors to enjoy.

For more information from the Nevada Commission on Tourism please call 020 7367 0910 or visit www.travelnevada.co.uk

ZAHA HADID PAVILION AT ABU DHABI ARTS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL, MARCH 19TH - APRIL 7TH 2011

Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation reveals details of Festival line-up

The Abu Dhabi Festival will present a programme drawing together a prestigious line-up of world-renowned performers from across the world for the 2011 Festival, according to Festival organisers, Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation. With a programme combining music, art, dance, jazz, ballet and fine arts, the Festival will showcase excellence from across the artistic spectrum.

Held under the patronage of His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the Festival will celebrate its eighth edition in 2011. The theme for the 2011 Festival will be ‘Harmony for Humanity’, reflecting the unifying spirit of the arts in bringing people together in shared appreciation beyond the boundaries of language, culture and difference.

Growing year-on-year, the Festival has swiftly established itself across the region as a manifestation of Abu Dhabi’s ambition to establish itself as a beacon of cultural expression. Moreover, the Festival underscores Abu Dhabi’s impressive credentials as a capital of cultural understanding. A stunning blend of large-scale concerts, beautiful recitals and performances, exhibitions, workshops and debates, extending to community and education activities the Festival is truly a UAE-wide experience with activities scheduled across the seven emirates.

“In the eight years since its establishment, expansion and growth the Abu Dhabi Festival has remained committed to presenting opportunities for people to share together in the special spirit of the arts; to transcend the barriers of difference between us in a celebration of excellence, talent and beauty,” said Her Excellency Mrs. Hoda I. Al Khamis Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation and Artistic Director of the Abu Dhabi Festival.

“We are 100% committed to delivering new and innovative ways for people to get involved in the Festival and discover a passion for the arts, which is why we are thrilled to present such a wonderfully diverse programme alongside thriving and engaging community and education programmes,” she added.

Highlights of the Abu Dhabi Festival 2011 Main Programme
The UK is strongly represented at this year’s Festival, with landmark performances by leading British cultural organisations and artists.

Critically acclaimed modern dance production PUSH, a Sadler’s Wells London Production, will feature dance legends Sylvie Guillem and Russell Maliphant and will make its regional debut at the Festival.

British music workshop group Between the Notes and its founder, cellist Matthew Barley, will return to Abu Dhabi once again to lead the Festival’s in-classroom music and arts sessions at schools across the emirates.

Festival organisers are delighted to be able to bring the Zaha Hadid Pavilion to the Abu Dhabi Festival. Co-commissioned from renowned UK-based architect Zaha Hadid by the Abu Dhabi Festival in partnership with the Manchester International Festival and the Holland Festival, the performance space has been specifically designed to be an acoustically perfect space for public performances. Located at the Emirates Palace, the Pavilion will provide an intimate and innovative performance environment for the Abu Dhabi Festival.

The festival programme also features a wealth of international stars.Further information can be found at: www.abudhabifestival.ae

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