If you are in pursuit of a unique luxurious experience, sailing to Mexico offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration unlike any other.

When to go

In general you can explore the Mexican coast every season of the year by cruise from the UK. However, the best time to cruise Mexico is in the dry season which runs from November to April. It is considered to be the peak time for tourism.

During this period, the weather is dry and pleasant in most parts of the country. It’s perfect for exploring the archaeological sites and enjoying outdoor activities on the beach.

That said, the timing of your visit depends on the region you want to explore or for any other specific experience which you wish to pursue.

If you are interested in sailing to Mexico and witnessing the Holy Week leading up to Eastern, then plan your voyage accordingly. For traditional Mexican festivals, like the Day of the Dead, go in late October.

Popular cruise destination in Mexico

The Southampton Cruise Centre and Royal Caribbean UK offers trips to Western Caribbean and Cabo San Lucas, a resort getaway on the Baja California Peninsula, famous for its water activities, beaches and nightlife.

Read more: cruise novice Georgia heads for the launch of new ship, Amibition!

Cruise trips from the UK also sail to Cozumel, a stunning Caribbean island on the east coast of Mexico. The place is known for the vibrant coral reefs and first class diving and snorkelling opportunities. Along with rich Mayan heritage and unrivalled natural beauty.

Mazatlán is another captivating port of call which is located on the country’s Pacific coast and known for its golden beaches, stunning colonial architecture and vibrant local culture. Some places of interest are the Old Town and the bustling Malecon for a heady mix of sun, sea and Mexican vibe.

Cenotes to Rainforests and ruins  

A cruise to Mexico has everything from beaches, jungles to volcanoes which allow visitors to experience outdoor as well as urban adventures of all kinds.

For art lovers, the surreal works of Frida Kahlo and the ancient art treasures from the Maya civilization are a must see.

Then there are the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum which draw history lovers from all corners of the world. Discover the country’s Aztec roots at Tenochtitlan and Temple Mayor, dating back to thousands of years.

It is easy to get immersed in nature when in Mexico. Take a tour to the cenotes, or go on a rainforest safari to spot exotic species like iguanas, macaws and other wildlife.

In the end

 A cruise to Mexico is full of exciting destinations, each with their unique style and charm. While the wild west coast offers natural beauty and vibrant adventures as its counterpart ,the eastern coast of Riviera Maya.

Then there is the Yucatan Peninsula, where you can stop in Cozumel island and enjoy azure blue waters and unspoilt island appeal.

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To celebrate the month of June, we’re brushing up on our LGBTQ+ history with seven of the most influential icons of the community. We’ve got a long old history of hard-fought fights and iconic individuals, so why not show some, er, pride?! But who are the most influential and famous LGBTQ+ icons through history? 

We’ve tracked some extraordinary people doing extraordinary things, from the 1700s to the present day.  In no particular order…

Marsha P Johnson

Marsha P Johnson (1945-1992)

As one of the most well-known names on this list, Marsha P Johnson was a self-identified drag queen and rights activist. She was a proud advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and vital to the Stonewall riots of 1969. 

The Stonewall riots began what we know as Pride today, a protest and celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. Johnson was essential in the formation of Pride – some even say she threw the first brick. 

The ‘first brick’ story has since been debunked, but that doesn’t make Johnson’s involvement and continued activism any less amazing. 

Beyond Stonewall, Johnson was a vocal activist, forming multiple organisations to support fellow members of the LGBTQ community. She protested for the rights of gay and transgender people, as well as supporting those affected by the AIDS crisis.  

Whether she threw the first brick or not, Marsha P Johnson will always remain one of the most influential icons of LGBTQ+ history. 

Alan Turing

Alan Turing (1912-1954) at Princeton University, 1936

Alan Turing is among the most well-known LGBTQ+ figures, and for good reason. As a World War Two computer scientist, Turing cracked the German cipher in an essential breakthrough for the war effort. He was also the source behind many other scientific breakthroughs, such as the Turing machine, which solves abstract mathematical conundrums. 

Sadly, despite Turing’s crucial work, he was still prosecuted in 1952 for his homosexuality, undergoing outdated medical treatment to both ‘cure’ and punish him. He died just two years later. Whether this was by suicide or whethr he was poisoning remains a mystery. 

Turning’s death is truly a tragedy, but his legacy lives on in countless memorials, from buildings, to awards, to computer programs and more. As a truly influential figure of LGBTQ+ history, Turing is also memorialised in the 2013 Alan Turing law. This law pardoned him and many of their crime of homosexuality. Homosexuality is no longer a crime in the UK today, and Turing is one of many to thank for that. 

Anne Lister

Anne Lister (1791-1840)

Anne Lister was born in Yorkshire in 1791, and grew up to be a landowner, a lesbian, and an all-round awesome icon in our history. 

Lister was a hot topic of conversation back in day for her masculine gender presentation, and her ‘masculine’ position as a landowner. Both were very uncommon for women at the time, making her stand out against the status quo. 

She is best known today from Gentleman Jack, a TV show based on her diary entries and letters to partner Ann Walker. Same-sex marriage was illegal at the time, but that didn’t stop the pair from deciding they were married anyway. That’s an incredible level of confidence you just have to respect. 

Clearly Lister was no sheep, no matter the stares or insults she faced. Gentleman Jack even names itself after a common insult for Lister, a modern day slap in the face to those who mocked her. Needless to say, she’s an absolute icon of LGBTQ+ history.

Harvey Milk

Harvey Milk (1930-1978) at Gay Pride, San Jose 1978

Harvey Milk, born in 1930, was the first openly gay US official. He was elected to public office in California following a proud history of gay rights activism. 

Milk was an outstanding figure of protest, with intense and brilliant quotes such as, “If a bullet should enter my brain, let that bullet destroy every closet door.” He was tragically killed in this exact way. Just a year after entering office, he was assassinated by a fellow American politician. 

His short time in office didn’t stop Milk from fighting for essential changes to US laws. He strived for the protection of LGBTQ+ Americans, sponsoring a bill which banned sexuality-based discrimination in housing and employment. This bill passed, marking an incredible milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in America. 

He’s celebrated today with the 2008 film Milk, based on his incredible life as an activist, politician, and influential LGBTQ+ icon. Though his political career was cut short, his contributions to LGBTQ+ history were essential in the fight for change. 

Another article you may like: What your transgender child wishes they could tell you 

April Ashley

April Ashley (1935-2021)

Born in 1935, April Ashley was one of the first people to undergo gender-affirming surgery in the UK. As a transgender rights activist, Ashley was prominent in the fight for equality. Even her own divorce case was used for positive legal change to benefit the transgender community. 

In the 1960s, her husband requested an annulment on the grounds that Ashley was not legally a woman. This atrocious reasoning was then approved, with their annulment being granted in 1970. All because Ashley’s legal gender was stuck as male with no way to change it. 

Even though Ashley lost the case, her story was still used in 2004 to help pass the Gender Recognition Act. Through this, she was finally allowed to change to her legal gender to female after over 60 years. 

As a vocal transgender activist, and key figure in the fight for gender-affirming laws, April Ashley continues to be remembered as an incredibly influential figure in LGBTQ+ history. 

Radclyffe Hall

Radclyffe Hall (1880-1943)

Marguerite Antonia Radclyffe Hall (known by her penname John) was an English poet and author born in the late 19th Century. She is best known for her 1928 novel The Well of Loneliness, a novel that truly cements her legacy as an icon of LGBTQ+ history. 

The novel depicts a lesbian relationship – still very much taboo for the time – and ends with the extraordinary line, “Give us also the right to our existence.”  

Unsurprisingly, such an iconic work was banned for its “scandalous” content, but that didn’t stop Radclyffe Hall’s influence from spreading far and wide. Especially among those who needed it most. 

Radclyffe Hall’s work became symbolic of those stuck in the closet (to use a more modern term). It represented LGBTQ+ people unable to represent themselves in a world where self-expression remained a crime. Having offered a voice for those who needed it most, Radclyffe Hall deserves to be celebrated as a brilliantly influential LGBTQ+ icon. 

Chevalier d’Eon

The Chevalier D’Eon (1728 -1810) from the London Magazine 1777, British Cartoon Prints Collection

Born in 1728, Chevalier d’Eon was one of the first transgender and gender non-conforming people in modern European history. They were a French diplomat, soldier and spy as part of a secret organisation under King Louie XV. An incredibly cool figure for our queer history tour. 

They presented as both masculine and feminine in their lifetime until 1777. That year, the king officially recognised d’Eon as a woman, so long as they presented as feminine for the rest of their life. A pretty bizarre deal for gender recognition by today’s standards. But it did come with a free wardrobe courtesy of the king himself. And d’Eon got to keep their incredible undercover life.  

D’Eon is known by many for their fencing prowess. Including defeating a French soldier in one particularly influential duel while presenting as a woman. Their legacy has been celebrated by many well-known figures such as Mary Wollstonecraft, for their incomparable contributions to both women’s rights and transgender rights. 

As a remarkable soldier, spy, and one of the first to legally transition, d’Eon is definitely an LGBTQ+ icon to be proud of.

Lady Phyll

Phyll Opoku Gyimah (1974 – )

Phyllis Akua Opoku-Gyimah, also known as Lady Phyll, is a political activist, campaigning for both LGBTQ+ rights and anti-racism. For anyone noticing the use of present tense there, you read right. Lady Phyll remains an influential rights activist to this day, still going strong in her co-founded charity and event UK Black Pride. 

UK Black Pride was formed in the hopes of uniting and celebrating LGBTQ+ people of colour, promoting unity and advocating for anti-racism within and towards the community. Self-described as both a party and a protest, its contribution to LGBTQ+ history is essential, fighting for a more inclusive LGBTQ+ community. 

Lady Phyll will undeniably go down in history as an influential icon of the LGBTQ+ community. And she continues to be politically active today, acting as Chief Executive of her own charity. Her influential story is far from over, and so is the fight for change. 

The future of Pride 

We can learn a lot from the influential LGBTQ+ icons of the past. What unites us all is not our struggles, but instead the strength of our community. It is our united fight for a better future that makes Pride what it is today.  

And it’s not over yet. We still have a long way to go in our fight for equality. 

To get involved, consider checking out the official Stonewall website for more information on events, charities and protests.  

Aiden Winn

Aiden is an editorial and production staffer at Title Media. He’s constantly looking for opportunities to have fun and get creative, whether it be art, baking, storytelling… you name it!

The post Pride. The kickass famous LGBTQ+ icons through history appeared first on Silver Magazine.

No? Well, we’re not sure we believe you!

Of course we think you should take care of and love your pets when they reach ‘golden oldie’ status. But honestly, we don’t think they’re too offended about being called old!

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Whether you’re travelling by car, train, plane or coach, whether for work or leisure, a little creativity and preparation can go a long way to transform what could be seemingly endless boredom into endless fun. Here are some great ways to make a long journey more entertaining and enjoyable.

Make a travel playlist

Music is many people’s go-to when it comes to filling time on a journey of any length. Why not add new artists and songs to a special travel playlist? This could be a great opportunity to discover new favourite genres and artists. A great way to make a long journey more entertaining.

Alternatively, you can stick to the music you already know and love. Getting lost in your favourite beats, melodies and lyrics is never a bad way to spend a few hours.

Read a new book or listen to an audiobook

If you’ve been putting off getting back to that book you started reading or picking up a new one, a long journey is the perfect time to commit. Diving into a good story or an inspiring autobiography can help you lose track of time and seemingly reach your destination a little sooner.

For those who get travel sick while reading, listening to audiobooks is a great alternative to consider. You can sit back, eyes open or closed, and follow the story along without having to focus on the words in front of you.

Play games

Playing games alone or with your fellow travellers is an engaging way to pass the time on a long journey. Depending on your mode of transportation, you could get out a pack of cards or set up a board game, or play multiplayer games on your phones or tablets.

From the thrill of mobile slots to the competitive worlds of Fortnite and Warzone. There are so many options when it comes to playing games during travels. It doesn’t matter if you’re travelling alone or with others, gaming is always there to provide relief from travel boredom.

Watch films or videos

There’s always the option to sit back and relax with your choice of films, TV shows or videos. Many people indulge in movie marathons, particularly on planes. You could enjoy a series of films, binge-watch a TV show you’ve been dying to watch or deep-dive into your favourite YouTube channels. This is a great option on your phone, tablet or laptop. Bring a good pair of headphones for the full effect!

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Consider running a game of bingo to boost the party mood! Make sure it goes without a hitch by following this guide to hosting a bingo event which includes caller tips and decoration and gift ideas.

1. Create a fun atmosphere

No event is complete without over-the-top decorations! Go all out to create a lively and fun atmosphere for your bingo event.

You could have a theme for your evening and use decorations to bring this to life. Why not try to recreate the glitzy luxury of the casino with a red tablecloth, black and gold banners, and giant fluffy dice? Alternatively, go for something silly to encourage your guests to let their hair down!

Background music and finger food are essential as well to complete the party mood.

2. Get the bingo essentials

Don’t forget to get the bingo essentials for your game. You could mimic the traditional bingo hall and hand out paper grids and daubers, or play a group game online via a bingo app from a reputable provider.

3. Hone your hosting skills

As the party planner, you’ll need to run the game and ensure that play stays fair. In advance of the event, take time to hone your hosting skills so that you’re comfortably in command on the day.

First and foremost, make sure that you understand the rules! You’ll need to explain to everyone how to play and make sure that no one is cheating so that the game runs smoothly. The standard 90-ball bingo has two major winners – the first to a row, and the first to a full house.

You could also look up tips on how to be a good bingo caller. Why not attempt the East End London Cockney rhyming slang that has become synonymous with the game?

4. Mix up the games

Especially if you have time for a few rounds, mix up the games to keep up enthusiasm and competitive spirit.
75-ball bingo is a version of the game that’s popular in the USA, where players can complete rows horizontally, vertically, and diagonally. There’s also a super quick 30-ball version.

For something more inventive, consider changing the completion pattern or switching out the numbers for words, songs, or celebrity names.

5. Prepare your prizes

Lastly, don’t forget to prepare your prizes! You can go for gifts commonly awarded at game nights or be more creative and tailor your offering to your friendship group.

Safe bets include scented candles, bath bombs and essential oil diffusers, boxes of chocolates, and film tickets or gift cards. At the other end of the spectrum, you can have a lot of fun with joke presents like comedy keychains and fancy dress items.

As well as rewards for the winners, you could introduce forfeits for the losers! This might include a performance of their favourite karaoke song, or asking them to be a waiter for the night.

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Whether you want a relaxing, luxury break or an adventure-packed trip we have the latest launches and best travel news, for you to enjoy this summer.

Glass-bottomed pools you make the rocking world go ‘round

nhow Milano

nhow Milano recently opened a new 750 square metre rooftop area that features an infinity glass-bottomed pool located in Milan’s Via Tortona.

The Vertigo Pool is situated alongside two round pools and a solarium. There is also a new restaurant and cocktail bar to complement the view.

Prices per night start at €160 this summer.

For more information head to nh Hotels.

Are you seeking some water wellness?

Beach on the Isle of Mull

New for 2023, Wild Hebridean Swimming Adventures presents its beginner open water development retreats at Achaban House, Fionnphort.

This summer, enjoy adventure swims in some of the world’s most idyllic seas on the Isles of Mull and Iona. There will be guided swim treks, safety courses in cold water swimming, sunrise and sunset dips and 1:1 technique coaching.

Forthcoming retreats will be from 17 to 23 July and 29 Sept to 2 October. Retreats start at £795pp and include transfers, meals, yoga, massage, pilates and coaching.

For more information head to Swim Dynamics.

Looking for the perfect day trip from London?

Mayfield Lavender, Surrey

Banstead, Surrey, is home to Mayfield Lavender for only three months out of the year. It reopened on 20 June and will close again on 20 August.

The 25-acre farm sits on an original 19th-century Victorian lavender field site. There is a tractor ride that runs throughout the day to take in all the sights and smells as well as see the bees and butterflies. It is £2.50 per person.

There is a shop and café selling a range of teas, cupcakes, oils and soaps made with the organic lavender grown there.

It is £5 entry per person. Note that you can only buy tickets when you’re there (weekdays will be less busy).

Fancy a shleepover?

Naughty Sheep

Naughty Sheep have announced their new wellness weekends starting from September 2023 that combine mindfulness and sheep in Gartmore, Stirling.

Their three-day Sheepy Sleepovers involve de-stressing with pet Herdwick sheep while exploring the surrounding hidden gems of Scotland. A three-night stay includes yoga, sound healing, meditations, confidence techniques and, of course, Dougal and Lochie the sheep.

Available from 15 September 2023. Price: £796 per night for up to three people.

For more information visit Tea With Naughty Sheep.

Relaxation with a touch of elegance and charm

Schloss Hotel Roxburghe

SCHLOSS Roxburghe recently celebrated the opening of the new Estate House located within the countryside of the Scottish Borders after an expansion that boasts an additional 58 rooms and a new restaurant and spa.

The new spa facility includes a heated outdoor infinity pool, indoor and outdoor areas for relaxing, a plunge pool and a fitness suite. As well as three treatment rooms and two saunas.

To book, head to Schloss Hotel Roxburghe.

An escape in the city with the girls

Wander Women Collective

The WanderWomen collective in Edinburgh, Scotland, has released a series of outdoor experiences for women this July.

Their upcoming activities include a Forest Bath & River Swim on 6 July and a Hammock Hang Out on the 28^th. Both involve a unique mix of mindfulness and adventure in and around Edinburgh to escape from the daily grind.

Forest Bath & River Swim – 6 July (price: £60; concession £48)

Hammock Hang Out – 28 July (price: £30; concession £24)

For more information visit Wander Women.

Read more: How a life-changing retreat transformed this 60-year-old’s life

Beat the cost of living with these countryside offers

The Inn Collection Group

The Inn Collection Group have re-launched their Winter Breaks offer for 2023/24 in Northumberland, Durham, Tyne & Wear and North Yorkshire.

Starting at £49.50 per person, the package offers bed and breakfast stays with dinner from 1 November to 31 March. The offer is open at 29 inns located in some of the UK’s most picturesque locations such as the Lake District and the North York Moors.

Bookings are available direct from The Inn Collection Group.

A luxurious sleep under the stars in Västerås

Best Western Plus Hotel Plaza has opened the Plaza Rooftop Hotel on a roof terrace in the middle of Västerås in

Plaza Rooftop Hotel, Sweden

collaboration with one of Sweden’s leading bed suppliers, Hästens.

The so-called “Glasdome” is 1hr 30min west of Stockholm and boasts a unique hotel experience with an extensive room service menu. Guests can choose from a variety of experiences such as the world’s highest bungee jump, a hot air balloon flight and private gin tasting at a local distillery.

Prices start at SEK 3,995 (approx. £295) and include a three-course dinner menu, welcome drink, a free minibar, entrance to Hotel Plaza’s Spa and a gym session at Skygym.

For more information visit Plaza Rooftop Hotel.

The ultimate wellness experience in the Maldives

The Nautilus, the Maldives

The Nautilus is hosting the Energy Harmony Retreat this winter in collaboration with Ananda in the Himalayas to combine ayurvedic and yogic knowledge with the timeless hospitality of the Maldives.

The five-star private island hideaway offers beach houses on Hanifaru Bay and an extensive range of facilities and spa amenities. This new retreat will explore Ayurvedic treatments and classes such as Reflexology and Kundalini Massage. There will be tailored gourmet cuisine created especially for the retreat.

Prices start at USD 33,260 for two guests for six nights and include all meals, return transfers, green tax and the programme.

For more information visit The Nautilus.

Summer’s most stylish beach club has officially opened!

Dune Beach Marbella

Bought to you by the creators of Ocean Club Marbella, Dune Beach Marbella opens this summer in El Rosario, Marbella, and offers stunning sea views, stylish décor, and gourmet Mediterranean cuisine.

Surrounded by protected sand dunes, Dune Beach Marbella combines the beach club experience with a sit-down restaurant. Expect middle eastern flatbreads, marinated tiger prawns, Kobe flank steaks and hearty salads. As well as wines, champagnes, or curated cocktails.

For more information visit Dune Beach Marbella.

A Star Is Born

Introducing Celestyal Journey, Celestyal’s long-awaited new ship following its multimillion refurbishment.

Celestyal Journey

With 280% more balcony suites, seven dining venues, eight bars, two pools and an entire deck dedicated to wellness, the Celestyal Journey offers you an opportunity to relax and adventure on the Aegean Sea.

This is the debut of its first-ever penthouse with a private terrace. As well as an updated culinary experience.

Set sail on 2 September and visit Athens, Thessaloniki, Kusadasi, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos and Milos.

For further information visit Celestyal.

Beth Pratt

Beth is one of Silver’s interns. She loves reading and studying literature. Entering her final year of university, Beth still finds time to dance, swim, and have a pint with friends. Her favourite hobby is going to coffee shops, if you can call it a hobby!

The post Travel news July – hot picks appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Not only that, but many of us choose to head to sunny climes for winter breaks. With global air travel opening up increasingly, and winter sun a real possibility for many of us, how can we protect skin from sun damage?

A bronzed glow to our skin might make us *look* healthy, but it’s easy to forget about the repercussions of staying out in the sun for too long. How many of us have thought ‘yeah okay, I got burnt today, but it’ll turn into a tan tomorrow’?

Sun can be damaging all year

Many people assume sun damage only occurs in the warmer months, but it’s just as vital to be protective in the winter months. As long as the sun is in the sky, there’s potential for skin damage. So how can we protect our skin from the sun?

We’re not telling you to stay indoors all the time – after all, feeling the warm sun on our skin is a blessing we can all appreciate. Vitamin D provides a multitude of benefits, and it’s important to reap these when you can.

How to boost the feelgood chemicals in your brain!

What are the mental health benefits of the sun?

The levels of sunlight and darkness you are surrounded by trigger certain hormones to be released in your body.

Serotonin is associated with stabilizing our moods and feelings regarding our overall wellbeing and happiness. Lower levels of serotonin due to a lack of exposure to sunlight can lead to a higher risk of depression, which could explain why our mood and energy levels seem to be typically lower in the wintertime.

With the right balance of sunlight, it can also help improve your sleep. Melatonin is the hormone responsible for controlling our sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is typically released as it begins to get darker and is what causes you to feel sleepy in the evening.

Read more: Should I take vitamin D supplements?

What are the physical effects of sunlight?

Exposure to ultraviolet-B (UVB) rays causes a person’s skin to generate Vitamin D, which is essential when it comes to keeping our bones healthy, as our bodies can better regulate levels of calcium and phosphate.

According to WHO, “Getting anywhere from five to 15 minutes of sunlight on your arms, hands, and face two to three times a week is enough to enjoy the vitamin D-boosting benefits of the sun.”

However, repeated exposure to UV rays can cause wrinkles, age spots, broken blood vessels etc… While these are considered to be a normal result of aging, these skin changes can appear a lot earlier in life if you have some sun damage.

Also, during the winter months, the Vitamin D benefits are minimal from the sun – it is far weaker. But skin damage can still occur.

How do the experts suggest to keep safe in the sun?

Sreedhar Krishna, a Consultant Dermatologist at Skindoc, explains that dermatologists can easily identify reckless sun lovers just by looking at your skin samples under the microscope.

“Elastic tissue acts as scaffolding which keeps your skin taut and upright. Therefore, people who have overindulged in sun end up with saggy and leathery skin as they mature – the ultimate cost of the beautiful glowing tan that you might have enjoyed in previous years.“

Diane Ackers, a skincare expert from cosmeceutical brand, Doctors Formula, explains that we should think of UVA rays as the ageing rays, and UVB rays as the burning rays. Both contribute to skin damage and speeding up the effects of ageing, but it’s UVB rays that are mostly linked to skin damage and skin cancers.

…when your skin goes red or pink, it is a sign that you are already burnt

Both Sreedhar and Diane said that when your skin goes red or pink, it is a sign that you are already burnt. Your skin’s DNA is becoming damaged, and it is your body’s way of telling you to get out of the sun.

A study in Science Mag  shows that when sunlight hits your arm, it can make the kind of DNA damage that causes melanoma mutations in just a second. In addition to that, the DNA damage can continue for hours afterwards, even if you’ve gone home.

Long term skin damage will push through to the surface and show themselves as hyperpigmentation marks and brown patches as we age.

What should I look for when I’m buying sunscreen?

Diane suggests that you consider your skin type, condition, and lifestyle. If you know that you are prone to being burnt, the higher the factor the better. Take into consideration whether you are going through any facial treatments. Treatments such as laser, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, peels etc. will cause your new skin to be extra sensitive to the sun.

Consider your skin type, condition, and lifestyle when buying sunscreen

Your lifestyle is also an important factor to consider. If you love sports, particularly water sports, choose a waterproof formula. And be aware you can sweat sunscreen off too.

If you’re a make-up wearer, look out for foundations, tinted moisturisers, or BB creams with SPF built in. As a general rule of thumb, you don’t want to drop below SPF30.

Claire’s skin story

After being diagnosed with skin cancer in 2020, Claire Nield set out on a journey to create her own company, and wants to warn others about the dangers of sun damage.

“I received my melanoma skin cancer diagnosis on the first day of lockdown, so to say my life was shaken upside down is quite an understatement.

“Two surgeries and a big scar later, things are currently looking ok. Thankfully, the cancer was caught early, and I am now so much more aware of looking after my skin. I decided to set up The Flower Power Company. A year was spent researching flowers and natural oils used around the globe, and having discussions with my dermatologist.

I received my melanoma skin cancer diagnosis on the first day of lockdown

“Before my melanoma skin cancer diagnosis, I was aware I had sensitive skin and that I burnt easily, but I didn’t think too much about it. I was fortunate to be able to travel widely to hot continents in my twenties, wearing strapless tops and short skirts. I rarely wore a hat and often got sunburn, but I was too busy enjoying myself to think about covering up. I even used sunbeds; I now look back in horror at my younger self and the damage I must have done to my skin.

“I have had three moles removed so far: two on my back that turned out to be ok and the last on my upper thigh which was diagnosed as a melanoma. During the year of 2020, I had a full body skin check every 12 weeks following the surgery. Now it has been reduced to every 12 months but I know monitoring my skin is now part of my life and I won’t think twice about going to the doctor if I spot anything unusual.

I even used sunbeds; I now look back in horror at my younger self and the damage I must have done to my skin

“I still love being outdoors in the garden but now big floppy hats, long sleeve tops and cool trousers have replaced my old wardrobe.

“Be kind to your skin. Your skin is your largest organ and treating it with love is so important. It is not just about wrinkles and blemishes; treating it with respect can be life-saving too when it comes to sun protection.”

Top tips for sunny skincare

• Routinely apply your sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 all year round. Yes, even on the cloudy days. Clouds actually mean that UV rays are more scattered, and can still attack your skin.
• Apply sunscreen half an hour before going out, reapply every few hours, and reapply after being in water.
• Try to schedule outdoors activities if possible. Keep in mind that peak sun hours are usually 10am to 4pm, and this is when you should be most vigilant.
• Prepare accordingly with sunhats, sunglasses and umbrellas, and seek shade where you can.
• Stay hydrated when you’re in the sun to reduce the chance of heatstroke.

Silver Lifestyle – time to get your silver on with our retreats and products

Genevieve Ng

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But here’s an interesting thing. According to the search phrases most often typed in by Brits looking for pies, actual pie isn’t top of the list. And we’d have lost money on this.

No.1 is actually ‘Cottage Pie’ (which is not a reel PIE as any fule kno) with the first actual pie-pie coming in at No.4 with Chicken and Leek. If you’re interested in seeing the full top ten, it’s at the bottom.

But first, to pie! See, when we think of pie we think of stuff like steak and kidney, or a nice veggie option. But definitely with pastry. And gravy. So that’s what we’re bringing you today – a super easy pie recipe that’ll warm the cockles. Tuck in with a good red wine, and probably a snooze on the sofa afterwards…

EASY PEASY STEAK PIE

3 tbsp oil
1kg diced braising steak
2 onions, chopped
3 tbsp plain flour
Salt & pepper
1 tbsp tomato ketchup
2 beef stock cubes mixed with 600ml boiling water
1 x 225g ready-rolled shortcrust pastry
1 x 375g ready-rolled puff pastry
1 egg yolk, beaten

FILLING

Heat oven to 160C/140C fan/gas mark 3. Heat half the oil in a good sized casserole dish (a Le Creuset type thing is perfect) and brown the meat. Fry in batches so it doesn’t get crowded and go soggy, and remove from the heat and set aside. In the same pan (don’t wash it) add a bit more of the oil and gently fry the onions until they’re softly coloured.

Sprinkle the flour over the top of the onions and stir, then stick the meat back in, juices and all, together with the ketchup, stock and seasoning, cover with lid and simmer for a good couple of hours. You can make this whenever you like – chill it for 3-4 days or freeze it. If you want to add kidneys use lambs’ not beefs, and give them the same pre-treatment as the beef. Same with mushrooms.

ASSEMBLY

OK so feel free to make your own pastry but this is called Easy Peasy for a reason. Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas mark 7. Grease a 24-26cm pie dish and line with the shortcrust pastry. Don’t use puff pastry as the base or it’s just going to be unpleasantly soggy and greasy. Blind bake this a bit if you fancy but it’s not the end of the world if you don’t. Tip the filling in and top with the puff pastry, sealing the two pastry layers with brushed beaten egg and pressing all round the edges. Go crazy with the designs using your trimmings, brush the top with more egg and pop a couple of slits in to let the steam out. And in it goes. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden and ready to scoff. Let stand for a while before serving.

HERE’S THE TOP TEN PIES SEARCHED BY BRITS ON THE ‘NET

1. Cottage Pie
2. Fish Pie
3. Shepherd’s Pie
4. Chicken & Leek Pie
5. Chicken and Mushroom Pie
6. Steak and Ale Pie
7. Meat and Potato Pie
8. Pork Pie
9. Steak and Kidney Pie
10. Corned Beef Pie

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

The post National Pie Week – show off in the kitchen with this easy steak pie recipe appeared first on Silver Magazine.