Why the Norwegian fjords should be on your bucket list

Why the Norwegian fjords should be on your bucket list

30/06/2024

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It's hard to deny the allure and natural beauty of Scandinavia and it's a place I keep coming back to. Even if you are not someone who would normally consider a cruise, one down the Norwegian Fjord will never fail to be breathtaking as the fjords are truly a wonder of nature, especially in the Geirangerfjord which is over 60 miles and on the UNESCO World Heritage list for outstanding beautiful. 

What makes the Norwegian Fjords so special?

While fjords can be found in other countries such as New Zealand and Canada, it's Norway that comes in at the top of the list with over 1000 fjords and several of them are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The fjords were created by glaciers in Earth's last ice age, which created deep carved valleys like the ones in Norway, some of which are thousands of meters deep. 

What to see and do in the Fjords

1. Hiking

The Norwegian fjords are a playground to those who love the outdoors and provide a great base for hiking enthusiasts. Going on hike through the fjords allows you to experience this breathtaking landscape up close, with dramatic cliffs, crystal clear waters, waterfalls and coastal mountain trails.  

Of course, it is best to go with an experienced guide who can take you to the right viewpoints, also ensure you pack the right equipment and essentials like plenty of water and suncream and be aware of the local wildlife. 

2. SUP or Kayak the fjords

The fjords are the perfect place to get on the water, whether on the SUP or a kayak, it's guaranteed to be one of the more immersive and unique experiences you can have on the fjords. With the beauty of the towering landscape and stunning blue water, this is an experience that should go on everyone's bucket list.  There are plenty of kayaking and sup guides who will provide you with guidance and the equipment. 

3. Visit a historical site

The Fjords are perfect for history buffs as it's steeped in Viking and Norse history and folklore as well as the forjds being formed in the last ice age means there are many ancient ruins to explore as well as open-air museums, Viking-era sites and folklore museums. 

4. Spot the Northern Lights

With Norway being so close to the Arctic Circle, depending on what time of the year you visit you have a good chance of being able to enjoy the famous aurora borealis. The highest chance of seeing the northern lights is generally between September and April.  

Is a cruise the best way to explore the fjords?

For many reasons, a Norwegian fjords cruise holiday is the best way to see as much of the area in a fairly short time! Just imagine sailing between immense cliffs through deep blue waterways, soaking in majestic sunsets in a truly incredible landscape, it's one of the most special ways to experience the fjords.

Most fjord cruises are around 7-11 nights and offer an array of Port calls, a variety of destinations, taking in multiple fjords and providing plenty of opportunity for plenty of excursions from hikes, food tours, kayaking and museums and heritage site visits. 

A cruise can also often take you to remote small villages and communities and often you have the chance to explore on foot, depending on your ship's tender ports. Also, a cruise can take out some of the stress with the price including full board, entertainment,  port taxes, 

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6 Stylish DREAM PAIRS Wedge Shoes For Women

6 Stylish DREAM PAIRS Wedge Shoes For Women

29/06/2024

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Wedges come in many different styles and heel heights. Some have higher wedge heels, while others have lower ones. Wedges also vary in terms of materials, colours, and decoration. With so many options, it can be hard to know when a wedge is appropriate and when it may need to be more formal. In this article, we'll explain the different types of wedges and provide tips on how to wear them for casual and dressier occasions.

If you are looking for a great online shop to buy stylish and affordable wedges, look no further than Dream Pairs. They carry an impressive selection of wedge shoes in various heights, materials, colours, and details. You will find perfect options for work, weekends, and evenings out, from platform cork to rhinestone wedges. Dream Pairs offers comfortable shoes for standing all day. Browse the Dream Pairs collection today to update your shoe closet with on-trend yet polished wedges!

Closed-Toe Wedges 

Closed-toe wedges provide polish and etiquette, making them highly appropriate for work and weekend wear. By enclosing the front of the foot, they maintain a put-together appearance suitable for conservative settings. Here are some of the main types of closed-toe wedges. Closed-toe wedges can be worn as formal shoes for plantar fasciitis as they are comfortable to stand all day.

Espadrille Wedges

Espadrille wedges in primary colours like black, brown, and nude are easy to match with many outfits. The smooth espadrille material feels nice on your feet but is still polished for work or weekends. You can dress them up or down depending on what you wear them with. They work for any job or place that could be dressier.


Open-toe espadrille wedges are the perfect shoe for warm weather! Unlike closed-toe styles, having your toes out adds a breezy, casual touch ideal on sunny days. Plus, it gives any wedge a dressy, summer-ready edge that's nice to have. Here are some top open-toe wedge silhouettes to consider

Ankle Strap Wedges

With one thin band around the ankle, these ensure your heels and toes stay safely covered during long work days. You can rely on them to look neat through busy times. Pick versions without big bows or decorations to remain appropriate for more offices.


Ankle-strap wedges are just about the coolest - they take the strappy wedge up a notch with straps that wrap up the leg like a gladiator ankle strap sandal. Straps also keep crossing above the ankle, so everything feels locked in place as you go. Wedge heel still gives you a boost without hurting afterwards. It's so versatile, too - dress them up with skirts and dresses or pair them with shorts since the long straps can accessorize the look while letting a nice breeze through.

Strappy Wedges

Strappy wedges have a slight wedge heel and thin straps that crisscross over the top and sides of the foot, holding it snug. Thanks to that gradual wedge shape, they are way more balanced than high heels. The front can be open or have an ankle strap, making it easy to pop on and off, too. They are light as can be yet still supportive—perfect for hot sunny days because all those open straps allow plenty of airflow.


Square-toe strappy wedges pair a squared-toe shape with a wedge sole for a bit extra height. The stiff square toe and the platform bottom give your feet sturdy support rather than thin, pointy heels. It makes standing and walking around feel comfortable. And we think the squared look flatters feet nicely, too, don't you?

Platform Wedges

These have a small raised base under the heel to take pressure off your feet. Useful for jobs like serving that involve being on your feet for hours at a restaurant or event. The platform adds stability so you don't wobble on unstable ground. Good, hardworking shoes you can stand comfortably in.


These have soft straps across the top of the foot and around the ankle for daily support. Retro styles tend to return, so these will stay in style quickly. They hug your feet without squeezing too tight like some shoes. They are suitable for jobs involving lots of walking around, like retail or childcare.

Fancy Leather Wedges

These wedges have some small extra decoration, like buckles or shiny pieces, but they stay understated with nothing too flashy. The little added sparkle gives your outfit a hint of fun personality without looking sloppy. You can still wear them to nice dinners or the office with friends.


A thin strap over the back of the heel holds these snug while the top stays open. It's comfortable for hot weather since your feet get air. They work well for professions like teaching, where you're often on your feet in the warmer months. The simple style maintains a polished look.

Are Wedges Formal For Women?

Whether wedges are suitable for formal wear depends on the shoe's details and styling. Some wedge styles allow for formal and casual wear, while others may skew more one way.

Heel height makes a difference. Shorter heels under 2 inches provide more versatility than higher 3+ inch heels, which seem dressier. Closed-toe styles cover more skin and feel more polished than open toes. Leather in basic tones works well for day or night, while fabrics, patterns, and bright colors look best for laidback occasions.

Simple designs without extras like bows stay appropriate for work, while elaborate decorations feel fancier. Neutral colors like black, brown, and navy mix with various outfits, while bright pops of color lean casual. How the shoes are paired matters too - office styles paired with dressier looks are formal, and shorts or sundresses feel relaxed.

The setting also counts. Wedges follow sandals in formality but are dressier than closed-toe pumps. What are suitable changes based on your work or social scene? With mindful choices, wedges certainly have the potential to be dress shoes. However, only some wedge styles translate well to professional settings, depending on the little design nuances. It's all about considering factors like height, material, color, and styling for day or night.

Wrapping Up

Wedge shoes come in many styles. Some are dressier than others. Paying attention to things like how tall the heel is, how much of your foot it covers if it has things added on, and what other clothes you wear them with lets you pick wedges that you can wear all day at work and in the evenings. Dream Pairs has an extensive selection of wedges, so it's easy to find ones that match how you dress for your job or fun.

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8 Things to do in Pontypridd, South Wales

8 Things to do in Pontypridd, South Wales

25/06/2024

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Pontypridd Park

Pontypridd, a historical market town around 10 miles from Cardiff, with a direct train from the city, is seeing a resurgence in independent stores, food spots, music and arts, with the recent opening of the YMA and investment in the park, lido and local community ventures is making this town a great spot for a day out. 

So what is there to see and do in Pontypridd?

1. Ynysangharad War Memorial Park

Otherwise known as Ponty Park, this is definitely the central point of the town and has gorgeous green space with a fantastic adventure park, walks, wild gardens, dog park, bandstand, cafe and the perfect spot for a picnic. It is also home to the National Lido of Wales.

Ponty Lido

2. Lido Ponty

This historic lido is well worth a visit and is currently Wale's premier outdoor pool housed in a grade 11 listed building, having been restored to it's former glory. There are 3 heated pools, offering space for children, families, social swimmers and dedicated swimmers. Booking in advance if advised although they do have a few spaces for walk-in's.


3. Pontypridd Library

The Library is housed in a new, modern and eye-catching building just across the bridge from the park and is a great place for families to sit and page through some books in a calm space with a great children's section that provides nooks for them to sit and read. There is also plenty of space to bring your laptop of do a spot of work.

Pontypridd Museum 

4. Pontypridd Museum 

This small free museum offers fantastic insight into the town and the people who shaped it. While it could do with being updated, it's a welcoming space that's great for families and the large organ and stunning ceiling in this former Tabernacle are alone worth a visit. 

5. Pontypridd Common

The common, a short upward walk from the town offers great views across the valleys as well as an interesting heritage walk through the meadows and well-established woodland. Here you will find the iconic Rocking Stones, a stone formation made up fo a 10,000-year-old glacial boulder and surrounded by Gorsedd Stones.  

The Rockingstone on Pontypridd Common

6. Pontypridd Market

Pontypridd's indoor market has been trading since 1805 and is home to unique independent stores along with an array of fantastic foodie shops including the well-known Welsh Cake Shop. The bookstore here is also something of a wonder with books stacked up higher than any person and it's like a treasure trove. 

7. Foodie spots

Over the past few years Pontypridd has really started to make it's mark on the foodie movement here in South Wales. There is a variety of places to try from coffee shops and casual eating to more formal dining. So of my favourite places are Zucco Cafe,  Janets, The Princes, Casa Bianca and The Bunch of Grapes. 

8. Barry Sidings Country Park

Only a short drive (and within walking distance) of Pontypridd, you will find Barry Sidings Country Park which is a fantastic outdoor space for families, with plenty of walking trails, mountain bike paths, has an adventure play park, cafe and is dog friendly with free parking. 

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Healthy Hair and styling - What You Need to Know

Healthy Hair and styling - What You Need to Know

23/06/2024

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We all love to style our hair! From sleek, straight strands to bouncy curls, hair products help us achieve the look we desire. But have you ever stopped to think about what's in those products and how they might affect your health?

This blog aims to inform you about the ingredients commonly found in hair styling products. We will also share the potential health risks associated with them and some easy tips for using them safely.

If you regularly use hair styling products, this post is a must-read! Let’s get started!

 

Common Hair Styling Products

Let's take a closer look at some popular hair styling products and their ingredients:

Chemical Hair Relaxers: These products straighten curly hair by breaking down the hair bonds. A common ingredient is ammonium thioglycolate, which can irritate the scalp and eyes.

Hair Gels: Used for hold and definition, hair gels often contain alcohol, which can dry out your hair and scalp. Other ingredients include polymers for hold and thickening agents.

Hair Sprays: Offering hold and manageability, hair sprays typically contain aerosol propellants, resins for hold, and film-forming agents to coat the hair.

Hair Waxes and Pomades: These styling products provide texture and shine. Waxes often contain petroleum or beeswax, while pomades may have oil-based ingredients.

Health Issues Associated with Hair Styling Products

While hair styling products make our hair look great, some ingredients can pose health risks. Here's a breakdown of some potential concerns:

Potential Cancer

Long-term use of chemical hair relaxers can expose individuals to harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and lye. These substances can penetrate the scalp, leading to potential health risks, including cancer. Recent studies have shown a significant link between the use of chemical hair relaxers and an increased risk of uterine cancer. The research indicates that these products contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that interfere with hormonal balance, which can lead to the development of cancer over time.

As awareness of these risks grows, lawsuits are underway against manufacturers of chemical hair relaxers. Victims are seeking justice for the health issues caused by these products. If you've been affected, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance. So that you can win your hair relaxer lawsuit with expert help and ensure you receive the compensation and support you deserve. The legal professionals have the required knowledge to deal with such cases successfully! They will calculate the right compensation amount, including your medical bills, extra expenses, and even loss of pay (if any). In addition, they also factor in non-punitive damages to maximize the amount.

Skin Irritation and Allergies

Certain ingredients in hair products can irritate the scalp, causing itching, redness, and flaking. Fragrances, preservatives, and some alcohols are common culprits.

Skin irritation occurs when these chemicals penetrate the scalp's protective barrier, leading to inflammation and allergic reactions. Prolonged use of products containing these irritants can worsen symptoms, resulting in chronic discomfort and damage to the scalp. In addition, individuals with sensitive skin or pre-existing conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, are particularly susceptible to these effects.

Respiratory Problems

Have you ever wondered why hairspray sometimes makes you cough? It's those tiny particles in the air! Many styling products, especially aerosols, release chemicals called VOCs (volatile organic compounds) when you use them.

These VOCs float around and irritate your lungs, making breathing difficult. This can be especially troublesome for people with asthma or allergies. So, if you ever feel a cough or shortness of breath after using hairspray or other styling products, take a deep breath of fresh air by opening a window or stepping outside. It can help clear those lung irritants and make breathing easier.

Easy Tips for Safe Use of Hair Styling Products

Now that you're aware of the potential health risks, here are some simple tips for using hair styling products safely:

1. Read the label! Ingredients are listed in descending order of quantity on the product label. Learn about the ingredients you're putting in your hair and choose products with fewer harsh chemicals.

2. Go natural! Whenever possible, look for natural and organic haircare. These are generally gentler on your hair and scalp.

3. Protect your scalp! Apply a leave-in conditioner or scalp oil before using styling products, especially heat styling tools, to create a barrier and minimize damage.

4. Less is more! Try to limit the frequency of using styling products. Give your hair a break and embrace your natural texture whenever possible.

5. Patch test! Before using a new product, always patch-test a small area of your skin behind your ear to check for allergic reactions.

By being mindful of the ingredients in your hair styling products and following these easy tips, you can enjoy beautiful hair while minimizing potential health risks. Remember, your health is always the priority! Do your research, choose products wisely, and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

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How we enjoyed Oxford on a budget

How we enjoyed Oxford on a budget

17/06/2024

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While Oxford is known for being an affluent city with world-renowned Universities, you may have the impression that it's an expensive place to visit, but this simply isn't the case, with an array of amazing free to visit museums, outdoor spaces and historical sites. There is also plenty of cafes, street food and the covered market is a great place to find a family-friendly bite to eat. This walkable city is a great place for a budget day out, in fact one day isn't enough to see everything. 

I visited Oxford for the day with my two children, while staying at Mollies, 25mins from Oxford and this is how we made the most of this fantastic city on a small budget 

The History of Science Museum

This free museum houses a variety of collections and displays to do with science and also has a children's trail but it's real pulling power is Einsteins' blackboard from when he gave a lecture at the University in the 1930's which is impressive and appreciated by all ages.

The Natural History Museum, Oxford

The Natural History Museum 

Housed in a beautiful and rather breathtaking building, this free museum is packed with Dinosaur bones, fossils and interactive displays. Both kids and adults will love this place, there is plenty of see and do and lots of interactive elements and was one of the highlights of our day. 

Pitt Rivers Museum  

Connected and accessed via the Natural History Museum, this is another free museum that is well worth a visit and houses a large collection of rare archaeological and anthropological finds from all over the world. Between these two museums alone you could easily spend 2hrs or more taking it all in. 

The Bridge of Sighs, Oxford

Bridge of Sighs and Radcliffe Square

The Bridge of Sighs with its beautiful and iconic design and popular with tourists so expect it to be busy but it's beautiful and worth a visit. Only a short walk from the bridge will bring you to Radcliffe Square, the famous central cobblestone square surrounded by historic University buildings, this is a great place to take in the atmosphere of Oxford and perfect for photos. Just to the side of the square, you will also find St Mary's passage and the Narnia door.

Florist in The Covered Market

The Covered Market

This historic market has been open and in use since 1774 and is buzzing with activity from cheese shops to cocktail bars inside bookstores to antique toy shops and free art installations on the walls and ceiling. We spent a good half an hour wandering around taking in the atmosphere and may have enjoyed a fresh donut or two.

The Plough Inn - Budget-friendly lunch 

When it comes to family travel, food can really shoot up the budget so when we stumbled across The Plough Inn on Cornmarket Street and noticed that they make a large sharing pizza for £14.50 which is perfect for 3/4 people, that was lunch sorted. Delicious pizza with pesto in a beautiful location was a winner and I wish more pubs would offer substantial sharing pizzas like this one.

The Saxon Tower

Opposite the Plough Inn is the distinctive Saxon Tower, more than 100-yrs old making it one of the oldest buildings in Oxford. For a small charge, you can walk up the 97 steps to the top of the tower which offers up some fantastic views across the city as well as an interesting insight into the building and its uses over the past thousand years. This was the only "attraction" we paid with adult tickets £3.5, kids £2 or there is a family ticket for £9.

We had also planned to visit The Ashmolean Museum and Modern Art Museum, both of which are free, however, we ran out of time, but it just goes to show you can easily spend a budget-friendly day or weekend in Oxford, taking in all the history and fantastic museums as a family. 

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Radiant at Any Age and Ways to enhance our natural beauty

Radiant at Any Age and Ways to enhance our natural beauty

16/06/2024

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Have you ever wondered how some people seem to defy age and always look radiant? The truth is it's often a combination of things, from our DNA and genes, to a consistent skincare routine and for some natural and modern aesthetic treatments.

Whether you want to smooth out wrinkles, improve skin texture, or restore thinning hair, there are a variety of options and solutions that can help you achieve your personal goals.

Here are a couple of treatments that seem to have longevity and research behind them to ensure realistic results and the safety of the individual and can really help if you have an issue that is affecting your self-confidence when it comes to your skin.

Firstly let's start with the basics
 

5 Things to do to ensure healthy skins

You don't have to pay a fortune to put simple measures in place to ensure your skin stays healthy, it could be as simple as making simple daily changes such as 

1. Drinking enough water and staying hydrated

2. Using daily SPF 

3. Get enough sleep 

4. Reduce alcohol intake

5. Stop smoking

Light Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve applying a solution to the skin that causes the outer layer to peel off. This reveals smoother, clearer skin beneath. There are three types: light, medium, and deep peels, each offering different levels of exfoliation. With anything like this, trying the lightest and less invasive option first is the best choice, especially if you have sensitive skin. 

Procedure

The procedure starts with cleansing the skin. Then, the chemical solution is applied. You might feel a slight tingling or burning sensation. The peel is left on for a few minutes before being neutralized and removed.

Benefits

Chemical peels improve skin texture and tone. They can reduce acne scars, sun damage, and pigmentation issues. Regular peels can also stimulate collagen production, making the skin firmer.
Ideal Candidates

Chemical peels are suitable for anyone looking to improve their skin's appearance. However, those with active skin infections or certain skin conditions should consult an expert first.

IPL Photo Facial

IPL–Intense Pulsed Light. This treatment uses light energy to target and treat various skin issues. It's effective for sun damage, age spots, and vascular lesions.

Procedure

During the procedure, a handheld device delivers pulses of light to the skin. You may feel a little snapping sensation, like a rubber band. Sessions typically last about 20-30 minutes.
Benefits

IPL photo facials can even out skin tone and texture. They reduce redness, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. The treatment also stimulates collagen production, promoting youthful skin.

Ideal Candidates

IPL is suitable for people with light to medium skin tones. Those with darker skin tones should consult a specialist to avoid potential side effects.

Botox

Botox is a purified protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It's widely used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. When injected, it temporarily paralyzes the muscles responsible for these lines, creating a smoother, more youthful appearance.

If you want to get a Botox treatment, do the research, read reviews and make informed choices with the aim to find best and trustworthy professionals. For instance, if you're living in Virginia Beach, search the internet for one like ‘Botox Virginia Beach’ or ‘the best Botox in Virginia Beach.’ Look for an experienced professional who will have extensive training and a deep understanding of facial anatomy. This ensures that the injections are placed precisely where they are needed for the best results and minimal side effects.

Procedure

The Botox procedure is quick, often completed in just 10-15 minutes. Using a fine needle, a qualified practitioner injects small amounts of Botox into specific muscles. Discomfort is minimal, and no anesthesia is required.

Benefits

Botox is renowned for its ability to reduce crow's feet, frown lines, and forehead wrinkles. By relaxing facial muscles, it can also prevent new wrinkles from forming. The results are often quick, with noticeable improvements within days.

Ideal Candidates

Botox is ideal for adults who want to address signs of aging without surgery. It's suitable for most skin types and tones.

Hair Restoration

Hair restoration includes various methods to combat hair loss and thinning. Common techniques are Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy.

Procedure

Hair restoration procedures vary. FUE involves extracting individual hair follicles and transplanting them. FUT involves removing a strip of scalp and transplanting hair follicles from it. PRP therapy uses your blood's platelets to stimulate hair growth.

Benefits

Hair restoration can restore hair density and a natural hairline. It significantly boosts self-esteem and confidence. Results can be long-lasting, especially with proper maintenance.

Ideal Candidate

Ideal candidates are individuals experiencing hair thinning or baldness. It's important to have healthy hair follicles for transplantation.

Whether you opt for all-natural or Aesthetic treatments, both can help you look and feel your best at any age. If you're considering any treatments, consult a qualified aesthetician to find the best options for your needs. Remember, enhancing your natural beauty is always a worthy investment.

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