The transition from childhood to adolescence necessitates a reconsideration of living spaces to reflect evolving identities. It’s likely your teen is already asking to redecorate their bedroom to reflect their personal growth, or will appreciate the suggestion and support.

This article explores innovative strategies for painting a teenager’s room, focusing on thematic creativity, dramatic elements, colour palette choices, and the creation of a secure environment.

Understanding adolescence

Okay, they are not your little baby anymore, and hopefully you accept this and try to bond with who they are now as they need you (but won’t know or accept that). You will also need to appreciate that you are not cool to them, and your suggestions and ideas will suck. So how you play this requires cunning, understanding and compromise.

Adolescence is a critical developmental stage characterized by rapid physical changes and psychological adjustments, and it is essential to creating a room design that will be both appealing and functional for a teenager.

The maze of teenage psychology is as complex as a Picasso painting, with hormonal changes serving as the bold strokes of colour. There is peer pressure and high levels or expectation which weigh heavy on their adolescent mental health.

So, the best way to handle this is plant suggestive seeds rather than direct direction, and work with them to achieve their (controlled) dream bedroom.

Fun themes on the walls

Incorporating a fun theme on the walls can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal and personalization of a youthful living space. The boldness of graffiti inspiration or the sophistication of geometric patterns can make a room scream individuality. Sports themes can be a slam dunk for athletic teens, while favourite characters or music idols can turn a bland wall into a personal hall of fame.

Optical illusions? Now there’s a mind-bender! Motivational quotes can reinforce ambition, and images of travel destinations might just kickstart the travel bug. Educational themes, too, can be surprisingly cool – who knew? Mural concepts offer endless possibilities for customization, creating a space that is undeniably, irresistibly, delightfully ‘them’.

And here’s a brave idea if you plan to redecorate, let them get on with it, make their mistakes and learn, then hire painting contractors in London to do the job properly. Before you start the final redecoration, carefully choose the colours with your teen. You want to aim for a look that still be interesting at the end of secondary school.

Add a bit of drama

Teenagers may get a little rebellious while growing up, and this is usually manifested by wearing dark clothes and strong make-up. At this stage, you probably hear often enough to paint the walls in black or other dark colour. In fact, it is not a bad idea, if you two will reach a compromise.

Black paint can suggest independence, but too much of it will not look good. Instead, suggest choosing on accent wall and paint it with stripes or spots. Balance it with light colours on other walls and add some bright textiles, especially rug and bedspread.

Alternatively, unique murals and graffiti art have become the trendsetters, giving birth to bold colour and textured paint.

Neutrals and pastels

If your teenage kid is calm and well-mannered, consider yourself very lucky. Such children usually do not express themselves through external room design and you can easily suggest painting the room in neutral colours. This is a good solution that does not require specialized tools or skills. However, if you want to have the job done properly, always rely on good hands of qualified painters.

With raging hormones, it is the best to balance the teenager’s interior with neutral colours that will create a calm space and provide comfort. Think of subtle shades of blue or green, suggest also some pastes. With these colours, there is a big chance that your kid will still like it when he or she gets older.

Calming colours include light blue, pale pink, soft green, lavender, beige, ivory, muted grey, seafoam green, pastel yellow, and peach. Each choice can be followed by spectacular results if you invest in good quality paints and professional service.

Creating a safe environment at home for teenagers

The teenage years are tough, fraught with exam stress, hormones, growing up, life lessons, peer pressure and much more. It’s a tough time, and yes we went through it, but we didn’t have the same pressures from social media.

So help with the excessive emotions, and take care of relaxing and pleasant environment where your kid can recharge the batteries and hide away from the world if they need to. Consider investing in cosy and comfortable kids single beds as part of this nurturing environment, providing a space for them to relax and unwind, away from the digital noise and social pressures.

Establishing a secure environment within a residential setting for adolescents involves careful planning and the strategic use of appropriate decor and design elements. It’s non-negotiable; teen boundaries and the importance of privacy should be respected.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the art of painting a teenager’s room extends beyond mere aesthetics. It involves understanding their transitional phase, incorporating fun themes, and adding a touch of drama to their living space.

The use of neutrals and pastels offers a serene ambiance while creating a safe environment promotes their emotional wellbeing.

This task, although challenging, can be enjoyable and rewarding, instilling a sense of belonging and personal touch in the teenager’s private sanctuary.

The best thing to do to protect yourself is to buy the best tyres for your car you can. For instance, you can experience a smoother ride and better efficiency with high-performance car tyres in Stevenage available at EcoTyre Services. That said, there’s never a guarantee you won’t suffer from a motorway puncture. What should you do if one occurs?

Stay Calm

Panicking never helps when you have a tyre problem. If you suffer a loss of inflation, then your car will soon start to handle strangely. When tyres begin to deflate from a puncture – or if you suffer a complete blowout – there will also be a noise from the road that the wheel generates.

Firstly, ease off the accelerator to gain more traction and control. Don’t apply the brake if possible. If you do need it, then dab it slowly. Turn on your hazard warning lights. Try not to fight the wheel. Use gentle control to keep the car in its lane.

What to do if you breakdown on a motorway

• Try to get off the motorway at nearest exit or pull over on hard shoulder or emergency area
• Turn on your lights and hazard lights
• Wait in a safe place (out of the car behind the barrier)
• Make yourself visible (Hi-Vis vest if you have one)
• Report your breakdown and get help

What to do if you breakdown on a smart motorway

If you break down on a smart motorway, the hard shoulder may be in use as a lane. It’s safest to leave at the next junction or service area if you can. If that’s not possible, put on your hazards and honk the horn as you move left onto the hard shoulder or nearest emergency area and leave the car via the passenger side and go over the safety barrier.

Manoeuvre to the Hard Shoulder

Next, you need to get to somewhere you can halt the car safely. If there is a slip road you can turn onto, do so. If not, the hard shoulder is your next best option. In the case of a smart motorway or where no hard shoulder exists, move into the left-hand lane and try to continue until you find a refuge point which should be clearly marked.

Once you have stopped your car in a safe spot stay inside as much as possible to avoid flying debris. Use the roadside emergency phones or, better still, your mobile, once the engine is off, to call for help.

Seek Assistance

Even if you have a spare tyre onboard with you, it is always preferable to seek professional help. Jacking a car up and removing a shredded tyre is hard work and you may not have enough room to do this at the roadside while trucks whizz past you. Emergency recovery specialists are trained to do this work professionally and may tow you until a safer spot can be reached to do the necessary work.

In conclusion, choosing high-quality tyres should be your first priority. And if a motorway puncture occurs, remaining composed, manoeuvring to the hard shoulder, and seeking professional assistance are crucial steps to ensure safety and effective resolution.

Navigating through the vast range of accommodation options and finding the right areas to stay are always time consuming. Renthero Company is a dedicated platform that curates a comprehensive list of accommodations in Wolverhampton, allowing you to compare prices, amenities, and locations from the comfort of your home. By using websites, you can save valuable time and money while finding the lodging that aligns with your preferences and party size.

Timing Your Visit

When embarking on a journey to Wolverhampton, one of the key factors to consider is the timing of your visit. The city experiences a temperate maritime climate, which brings forth distinct charms during various seasons. Each time of year offers unique opportunities for exploration and enjoyment, making it essential to select the most suitable season that aligns with your preferences and interests.

As winter bids farewell, Wolverhampton comes alive with the arrival of spring. During this delightful season, the city sheds its winter coat and is adorned with a burst of colours as flowers bloom and trees blossom. The parks and gardens flourish, offering picturesque settings for leisurely strolls and relaxing moments. West Park, with its vibrant floral displays, becomes a captivating oasis where you can breathe in the fresh air and immerse yourself in nature’s reawakening.

As the warm hues of autumn paint the landscape, Wolverhampton beckons travellers to revel in its enchanting fall ambiance. The city’s parks and gardens transform into captivating canvases, adorned with shades of gold, crimson, and amber. Take a leisurely stroll through Bantock Park or explore the grounds of Wightwick Manor and Gardens (National Trust), where the arts-and-crafts-inspired architecture blends seamlessly with nature’s autumnal palette.

During the autumn months, Wolverhampton experiences a mellower tourist season compared to the bustling summer months, offering a more tranquil and intimate experience for visitors. With fewer crowds, you can leisurely explore the city centre and all it’s offerings.

Exploring the City’s History and Culture

Wolverhampton invites history enthusiasts to embark on an enthralling journey of discovery through its rich cultural heritage. Begin your exploration at the Wolverhampton Art Gallery, a treasure trove of art and artefacts that pays homage to the city’s artistic legacy. Within the walls of this elegant Victorian building, a fascinating collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts awaits, providing valuable insights into Wolverhampton’s contributions to the world of creativity and expression. 

After immersing yourself in the artistic wonders, venture to the iconic Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, where the opulence of Victorian architecture merges seamlessly with modern entertainment. Catch a live performance that will transport you to another era or take a guided tour to appreciate the architectural beauty and historical significance of this grand venue.

One of the most immersive historical experiences awaits at the Black Country Living Museum, an open-air marvel that transports visitors back to the industrial era. As you step foot into this living history museum, historical buildings come to life, and costumed characters recreate scenes from the past, providing an authentic and engaging encounter with the region’s history. 

Traverse the cobbled streets and explore the blacksmith’s forge, the coal mine, and other recreated settings, gaining a profound understanding of Wolverhampton’s industrial past and the resilience of its people. Don’t miss the chance to interact with the past, as you become a part of history itself in this captivating living museum.

Things to do in Wolverhampton

1. Visit the Wolverhampton Art Gallery (Lichfield Street, WV1 1DU): Explore a wide range of art and exhibitions, including the famous Pop Art collection.

2. Explore the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley (Discovery Way, DY1 4AL: Step back in time and experience life in an industrial town during the 19th and 20th centuries. Learn about the region’s history and enjoy interactive exhibits.

3. Take a walk in West Park (WV1 4PH): Enjoy the beautiful surroundings of this Victorian park, with its lake, gardens, and play areas. It’s a great place for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

4. Catch a show at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre (Lichfield Street, WV1 1DE): Watch a play, musical, or comedy show at this historic theatre. It hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.

5. Visit the Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club: If you’re a football fan, catch a game or take a stadium tour at Molineux Stadium (Waterloo Road, WV1 4QR), home to the Premier Leagues Wolverhampton Wanderers.

6. Shop at the Mander Centre (WV1 3NH): Explore a wide range of shops, boutiques, and eateries at this popular shopping centre in the heart of Wolverhampton. Fashion shops include New Look, Footasylum, Sports Direct, JD Sports, H&M, Flannels, Bonmarché, Deichmann, Jeff Bains and Matalan.

7. Take a trip to Bantock House Museum and Park (Finchfield Roadd, WV3 9LQ): Discover the history of Wolverhampton through this beautiful Georgian house and explore the surrounding parkland.

8. Visit Wightwick Manor and Gardens (Wightwick Bank, WV6 8EE): Explore the late 19th century beautiful Victorian manor house with original William Morris wallpapers, and Pre-Raphaelite art. The Thomas Mawson designed gardens include a formal parterre, a sunken rose garden, walled garden, and a woodland walk.

9. Explore the Wolverhampton City Centre: Wander around the city centre and discover a variety of shops, cafes, and historical landmarks.

10. Visit the Wolverhampton Top Lock (WV1 1JJ): The landmark is popular among boaters and visitors who enjoy walking along the canal towpath. It offers picturesque views of the surrounding area and is a great starting point for exploring the canal network.

So, Wolverhampton offers a fantastic holiday destination with something for every tourist. From its rich history and cultural attractions to family-friendly activities and culinary delights, the city ensures a memorable experience. Plan your trip carefully, considering the best time to visit and booking your accommodation in advance. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s heritage or immersing yourself in its natural beauty, Wolverhampton will undoubtedly captivate your heart. 

When it comes to our children, their safety and well-being are our top priorities. As parents, we want to ensure that they are in a nurturing and secure environment, especially when they are away from home. This is why choosing reputable child care centres provide with robust security measures is of paramount importance. In this article, we will delve into the world of top-notch childcare centres and explore the surprising security measures they employ to safeguard our little ones.

Comprehensive Facility Access Control

Facility access control refers to the measures put in place to regulate and monitor the entry and exit of individuals into a building or specific areas within it. It involves the use of various security technologies and protocols to ensure that only authorised individuals have access while keeping unauthorised individuals from gaining access.

• Secure Entry Systems
• Leading childcare centres understand the significance of controlled access to their premises. They employ advanced security systems such as key cards or biometric entry systems to ensure that only authorised individuals can enter the facility.

• Visitor Management Protocols
• Childcare centres implement strict visitor management protocols, requiring all visitors to sign in and present identification. This helps maintain a record of who enters the premises and adds an extra layer of security.

Comprehensive facility access control plays a vital role in maintaining the safety and security of our buildings and the people within them. By utilising advanced technologies, such as key card or badge systems, biometrics, keypad or PIN systems, and mobile credentials, childcare providers can enhance security, restrict access, and create a more secure and positive environment.

With the integration of other security systems and the implementation of best practices, organisations can effectively safeguard their facilities against unauthorised access and potential security threats. By prioritising comprehensive facility access control, we can ensure the protection of our employees, visitors, and valuable assets from unauthorized people, creating a safer and more secure world.

Trained and Vigilant Staff

When it comes to the well-being of our loved ones, there is nothing more important than knowing they are in capable hands. In settings such as child care centres, having a trained and vigilant staff is paramount to creating a safe and nurturing environment for children.

 To ensure the safety of the children, top-notch childcare centres conduct thorough background checks on their staff members. This includes screening for criminal records and verifying qualifications and references.

Child care centre staff undergo regular training on emergency procedures, child protection, and first aid. This equips them with the necessary skills to handle any situation that may arise and reinforces a culture of safety within the centre.

A trained and vigilant staff member is the cornerstone of a high-quality childcare centre. Their expertise, dedication, and nurturing approach create an environment where children can thrive, grow, and learn. By prioritising training, safety, responsiveness, and ongoing professional development, childcare centres empower their staff to provide the best possible care and support for children and their families. Investing in a well-trained staff not only ensures the safety and well-being of children but also lays the foundation for their lifelong success and happiness.

Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) Surveillance

Many childcare centres utilise CCTV systems to monitor various areas within the facility. This not only helps ensure the safety of the children but also acts as a deterrent against potential security threats.

Some childcare centres have dedicated staff members who continuously monitor the live CCTV feeds. This allows for immediate response in case of any suspicious activity or emergencies.

CCTV surveillance is a powerful tool that enhances security, deters criminal activities, and provides valuable evidence for investigations. The ability to monitor, record, and analyse activities in real time has revolutionised the way we protect our homes, businesses, and public spaces. By investing in CCTV systems, childcare can experience increased peace of mind, knowing that their environments are under constant watch and potential threats can be identified and addressed promptly.

However, it is crucial to balance the benefits of CCTV surveillance with privacy considerations and ethical use, ensuring that the technology is deployed responsibly and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Enhanced Outdoor Safety Measures

Childcare centres prioritise the safety of outdoor play areas by implementing measures such as secure fencing, age-appropriate equipment, and regular inspections to ensure that the environment is hazard-free.

Trained staff members actively supervise outdoor playtime, ensuring that children are engaged in safe and age-appropriate activities. This helps minimise the risk of accidents or incidents.

Robust Emergency Preparedness

Top-notch childcare centres have well-defined emergency evacuation plans in place. These plans outline procedures for evacuating the premises in the event of natural disasters, fire, or other emergencies.

Childcare providers conduct regular drills and practices to familiarise both staff and children with emergency policies and procedures. This helps ensure a swift and organised response during critical situations.

Parent-Child Communication

Reputable childcare centres maintain open lines of communication with parents, keeping them informed about their child’s activities, development, and any incidents that may occur. This transparency fosters trust and reassurance.

Some child care centres offer secure online portals where parents can access real-time updates and photos and communicate directly with staff members. This strengthens the connection between parents and the childcare centre while providing peace of mind.

Parent-child communication is a powerful tool that nurtures strong bonds and builds lasting connections. Through active listening, open dialogue, quality time, age-appropriate language, empathy, positive reinforcement, and addressing challenges, parents can create an environment where children feel valued, understood, and supported.

Effective communication positively impacts children’s emotional well-being, self-esteem, social skills, and overall development. By prioritising communication and fostering a culture of open and meaningful conversations, family members and parents can unleash the power of parent-child communication and create a strong foundation for a lifelong relationship filled with love, trust, and understanding.

Conclusion

Choosing a top-notch childcare centre that prioritises the safety and security of our little ones is paramount. By understanding the surprising security measures employed by these centres, we can make informed decisions and provide our children with the nurturing and secure environment they deserve.

From comprehensive access control systems to vigilant staff, closed-circuit television surveillance, enhanced outdoor safety measures, and robust emergency preparedness, these childcare centres go above and beyond to safeguard our precious children. So, let us take an active role in selecting childcare centres that prioritise security, ensuring our little ones can thrive and grow in a safe and nurturing environment.

That’s particularly important when they are young. Namely, for young growing horses apart from giving them first-class grass hay, you also need to make sure they are provided with horse balancers because they are normally packed with minerals, vitamins, and other essential things. These are also crucial if you want your young horse to be strong, healthy, and make good progress. 

We’ve recently talked to some experienced farmers and uncovered that various scientists are continuously working on creating diets for different animals that will help them stay healthy and thrive.

For example, they developed special diets (that do not require high intakes of food) for milk cows to keep them healthy, while they concluded that beef cattle must consume more fats. 

They Need To Be Free

We know that there are some people who firmly believe that animals should be caged due to their safety. Although we understand all your concerns and worries when it comes to this, we would still like to remind you that this is far from a good solution. 

In case you didn’t know, when animals are kept in confined spaces, they become miserable and something like this can even negatively influence their overall health. And then all of this can potentially transfer to animal by-products.

There’s no need to remind you that stress is one of the worst enemies of every living being, including farm animals. That’s why, you as their caretaker must do whatever is in your power to either eliminate it or drastically reduce it.

And there’s no denying that one of the most effective ways to do so is by letting them roam free. Precisely something like this is going to make them very happy, plus if you generally provide them with high-quality life, then you’ll have the most content farm animals in the world.

Health Must Always Be Prioritized 

It doesn’t matter whether this is your first time running an animal farm or not, we assume that you already know that health is the most important thing in the world and something that must always be your number one priority. 

So this means that you must be proactive when it comes to your animals and their health. What do we mean by that? We mean that you must keep an eye on them 24/7 and if you notice that something is wrong, you must immediately contact your vet. These things must never be overlooked, otherwise, your animals are going to suffer.

No one has ever said that taking care of animals on a farm is easy, however, it’s without a doubt a rewarding job. And if you want your animals to be happy by your side, then please be sure to implement everything we mentioned today.

As RFID cards are becoming mainstream, take time to know more about how RFID technology works and how to ensure the safety of your data using an RFID wallet. Doing so will allow you to take proactive steps toward ensuring all your data stays protected.  

What Is RFID? 

For quite some time, RFID technology has been utilized to ensure data security in numerous industries. Essentially, the technology enables wireless data transmission using radio waves. Currently, most debit and credit cards contain an RFID chip or tag.  

With RFID chips, you can use credit and debit cards to make purchases by conveniently tapping them against a card reader. There’s no need to hassle in inserting or swiping your card anymore. These cards are typically marked with three to four curved lines representing a wireless signal. This signal can be carried over distances ranging from a few centimetres to several meters.  

The RFID chips emit a low-intensity radio wave once it comes in contact with a reader. Generally, the chip will not emit one until the signal from the reader activates the tag to relay information. Overall, it’s a convenient and effective method of data transfer. It’s best to take time to learn everything to know about RFID to ensure a head start in making the most of the technology and staying safe simultaneously.  

Potential Dangers Of RFID 

Unfortunately, the convenience of RFID chips makes it easier for your data to be stolen via electronic theft. The chip emits radio waves when it comes into contact with a reader, although this might happen without your knowledge. RFID skimming is a threat when a hacker uses a small remote to trigger the RFID tag in your card and access your credit or debit card information. 

Data infiltration can happen when the hacker walks close to you in the mall or bumps into you on the sidewalk. It’s often impossible to catch the culprit due to the accessibility of anyone to RFID card readers and how instantaneous and undetected the process occurs. 

A Close Look At RFID Wallets 

Although RFID technology is becoming widespread, there are ways to protect your data. One of the straightforward ways to stop the data transfer is to block the signal physically. Since RFID utilizes low-intensity signals, you can readily protect your data by placing a layer of conductive metal or carbon fibre since these can block signals’ transmission. 

A simple solution is to envelop your card or wallet with tin foil, however, investing in an RFID wallet may be advisable if you want a convenient and aesthetic approach. The entire RFID wallet or one of its card sleeves is usually made of RFID-blocking materials, preventing radio waves from passing through. As a result, the chip will not emit a signal. Even if it does, the transmission will not go through the wallet. The result is that it blocks access to all your credit and debit cards. 

Today, you can find a good selection of RFID-blocking wallets and card cases with built-in protective layering in the wallet’s design. It ensures that all your cards stay safe and protected wherever you go.  

Should I Invest In An RFID Wallet? 

It’s crucial to remember that the frequency waves that RFID readers emit may be able to steal your data by readily penetrating through any material without regard to the type of clothing, wallet, bag, or backpack you have. Therefore, an RFID-blocking wallet should be a priority to prevent an RFID card reader from capturing your data. Nowadays, no one is safe, especially if you have items with RFID chips.  

If you still have doubts about whether or not to invest in an RFID wallet, especially if the size and durability are your primary concerns. If you check the market, most modern models of RFID wallets no longer feature the bulky look. Due to technological advancements, RFID wallets are now sleek and slim. As for durability, most RFID wallets boast a lifespan comparable to or even longer than an average wallet, but it all varies depending on your usage and the level of wear and tear it’s exposed to.  

Another concern for many individuals is when going through airport security. Since it’s a protocol to remove your wallet from your pockets, it’s not an issue to be worried about. Generally, an RFID wallet will go through the X-ray scanner without trouble. 

Final Thoughts 

If you hold several personal credit or debit cards with RFID chips embedded in them or you have access to sensitive assets, consider investing in a reliable RIFD wallet. Once you invest in one, it significantly minimizes the chances of having your data stolen.

With the great selection of RFID wallets on the market, you can choose one that best fits your style while having peace of mind that your data stays secure and safe at all times, wherever you go. And they also make a great gift idea for birthdays and anniversaries, and with Christmas looming close could be an ideal choice.

There are so many golf courses in Europe that it’s hard to choose where to go. That’s why we have compiled the top European golf courses that customers love to tee off all year round from famous PGA Catalunya to beautiful Thracian Cliffs. The courses below are ones that you should visit to get the best golfing experience.

PGA Catalunya – Spain

Location: Girona, Spain

Founded: 1999

The stunning Stadium Course at PGA Catalunya is consistently ranked as Spain’s number 1 course. Bunkers are placed strategically, the trees are located along the fairway and lakes are present on seven of the hardest holes, which are challenging for all golfers.

However, the difficulty of the course may be forgotten because of the beautiful settings which attract so many visitors all year round. It should also be mentioned that the venue has hosted many PGA European Tour events and has been highly praised by professionals.

Fontainebleau – France

Location: Paris, France

Founded: 1909

The French course is located in the Fontainebleau forest near the town on the ancient imperial hunting grounds. It is characterised by narrow fairways that are surrounded by multiple species of trees, dense amounts of ferns, brooms and lilacs and sand bunkers that are located around multiple holes. The course does create a stern but enjoyable test for golfers who are looking for a serious challenge. It is easy to see why this course ranks highly as one of the best golf courses in France.

Thracian Cliffs – Bulgaria

Location: Varna, Bulgaria

Founded: 2011

We may not find a course as challenging and spectacular as The Signature Course at Thracian Cliffs. This 6,840-yard golf course is framed by the rough coastal cliffs next to the endless blue of the Black Sea and that makes the backdrop of the course truly stunning. The holes are designed to fit in with the natural land layout, which makes it one of the most dramatic golf courses on Earth. It’s not surprising that it is among Europe’s top golf courses.

Monte Rei – Portugal

Location: Tavira, Portugal

Founded: 2007

Portugal has an embarrassment of riches with it’s range of courses and the Algarve is a popular choice. But Golfing holidays to Vilamoura are also worth looking at. Picking the best is a tough decision, but Monte Rei is a golf course that has been meticulously designed with every hole blending effortlessly into the landscape’s natural canvas.

Monte Rei also features water on 11 holes, and there are sculptured and shaped bunkers that add to its impressive presentation. The wide and forgiving fairways are mixed with indigenous plants, native grasses and lakes that stretch throughout the course to provide golfers with a unique challenge that tests their accuracy and skill. The 7,224-yard course offers beautiful views of the Serra do Caldeirao Mountains in the East Algarve.

Carya – Turkey

Location: Belek, Turkey

Founded: 2008

Golf is big business in Turkey bringing in £135 million euros annually, so most resorts are top-notch after heavy investment.  The Carya Golf Club is part of the Regnum Carya Resort which is home to an 18 hole course that has recently been reinvested to install floodlights so that comfortably play a few rounds of golf at night. This recent investment has made it the first full-lighted course in Europe. The course is situated in the Belek region of Turkey, with a design that reflects traditional heathland courses like those you find in Surrey.

The beautifully designed course has been built with a challenging design for better players but it accommodates those with lower handicaps as well so it’s an enjoyable test no matter how good you are at golf!

Villa d’Esta – Italy

Location: Milan & Lake Como, Italy

Founded: 1926

Villa d’Este winds its way through ash, chestnut and pine trees. Golfers will enjoy the picturesque views of Lake Montorfano as they navigate through its challenging course. Golfers believe that this course is one of the most challenging par-69s in all of Europe. The course has undergone tremendous improvements since its initial creation, which have made it one of the best courses in Italy and among the top courses in Continental Europe.

Lofoten Links – Norway

Location: Gimsøya, Norway

Founded: 2015

Lofoten Links is a new course that was only built in 2015 but it is a very popular golfing location in Europe. It is located on the island of Gimsøya in Norway and the ocean can be a water hazard on many holes along with the beaches that act as natural sand bunkers.

It is hard to believe that the sun doesn’t set on Lofoten Links between the end of May and July which means that you’ll be to play endless hours of golf with great visibility to improve your golfing game. Also from the end of August to mid-October, you can even experience the Northern lights which make the location extra special.

If you are planning on redecorating this year and looking for interior design inspiration then the in-trend home decor for 2022 is media walls. It’s basically a feature wall with in-built TV and multimedia entertainment systems, plus storage to hide unsightly wires, cables, consoles, and satellite boxes.

The perfect media wall effectively makes the living room a home cinema for all the family to enjoy, with many choosing to add an electric fire for heat and mood lighting.

Usually, these are bespoke built with plasterboard stud wall, or MDF, often around unused fireplaces with means the custom build can maximise the recess for storage space and feature shelves for family photos. If you like the clean and minimalist aesthetic style, it’s definitely one to research. Predominantly the TV wall is based in the main family room living area.

What to consider when designing

It’s worth speaking to a company that specialises in installing media walls, as they will have experience and give you additional ideas. An expert will also inform you if you should remove the existing fireplace or build around the chimney breast, and be aware of common mistakes before making them. It’s worth considering if you will ever revert back to the current style before any major work, and consider structural impacts.

And if you are doing this renovation, you may want to improve some other aspects of your lounge or living space too, like installing underfloor heating or laminate flooring. If you are redecorating then you might want to channel other wires and install media console cabling.

And if removing the fireplace you may find it cost-effective to have builders remove the chimney and fireplace upstairs at the same time. But if the job is more than installing a false wall, it needs careful planning, implementation, and then spending time to get it right.

Either way, if you were thinking about redecorating the living room for the summer anyway, you definitely want to factor in a media wall.

Things to consider before starting:

• If you do not own the property, you will need to speak to the homeowner before starting.
• You will need a qualified electrician if moving sockets and light switches.
• You will need a carpenter if building a wood frame.
• You will need a plasterer if using plasterboard.
• If you currently have a gas fire you will need a registered gas engineer to cap it.
• It will need to be painted.
• Depending on the level of work, you may need new carpet.
• Decide if you want a wall mounted electric fire

Main factors for design aesthetics

TV size and speaker placement

The television screen is the visual centrepiece of the family room, and it’s important to not just get this central for viewing, but also the size right to not dominate the space too much. Of course it depends on the room intention, if you want a home cinema then the bigger the better.

While size matters, height does too. Make sure it’s positioned for comfortable viewing from the sofa and it might take some adjustment if you currently use a media unit. And make a point of checking for reflections from windows on the screen, as nice as natural light is it can detract from the viewing experience. If the media wall has this issue in the ideal space, then angling the television screen might solve the problem.

Internal TV speakers are at the back, so you will need to factor in the cost and positioning of an external sound bar into your design.

Electric fire

TV’s don’t like heat, but most design ideas put the electric fire at the bottom of the central feature wall as they use convection heat. This means the TV’s do not get hot as they warm the air and push it back out again, so it doesn’t get hotter externally than your electric oven.

So a modern electric fire is a great choice if you have kids or pets, as even on the hottest heat setting will not cause injuries. And the realistic flame visuals really give the lounge that warm feel.

Media boxes and connection points

If you have a Skybox, or Virgin Media then you will need to factor in their placement based on where the connection points are into your media wall design. These will either need to be moved or have cables run into where the boxes will store. The same will apply to power supply and any TV Ariel point which is worth putting in for future options incase you go Freeview and streaming only.

Don’t worry too much about remotes, as while infra-red can’t penetrate walls easily, Bluetooth remotes (and game console controllers) can and you can get extenders too. Just remember the games consoles require easy access for discs.

Just be aware that the Wi-Fi router performs best with uninterrupted signal, so it would be better to go direct to the Smart Tv with an ethernet cable for uninterrupted streaming and have the router external still.

Cable management

The best method is to use a TV bracket giving easy access, to HDMI, power leads and AV cables which can be fed through channels to hide them away.

How much do media walls cost?

The overall cost is heavily impacted on the level of work needed and the cost of TV, etc. For a basic false wall, it could be as little as £600. But if additional work is needed or you splash out on some luxury home furnishings then it will push the price up.

You can also consider decorating your media wall with small, delicate objects. For example, colourful neon signs will make your media wall more beautiful and personalized. On a dim night, the room will also be brighter with the neon light. So take action to customize your media wall with neon signs now!

In early November UK streetwear brand Sik Silk dropped their Messi x Sik Silk collection, firming up their reputation as the best urban brand with a collaboration with arguably the greatest footballer of his generation Lionel Messi.

Back in SS19, Sik Silk launched the first of four seasons of a collab with Barcelona FC’s Dani Alves, which ensured their garments were a firm Spanish football dressing room favourite. This brought them to Leo Messi’s attention, which opened up an avenue to discuss the possibility of a fashion collab with the Messi Brand.

This not not a recent development, it’s actually been over 3 years in the making and involved trips to Argentina to meet his family and where Messi grew up and played football as kid. Design was mutually worked on, with Messi’s sister Maria Sol heavily involved.

It’s a great coup for the fashion label, with Messi included in Time magazines 100 most influential people in the world and usually endorsing Adidas. When Messi moved to PSG in the summer, 150k club shirts with his name were sold in just seven minutes.

The collection is live and already selling fast with a range of t-shirts, chains, skinny jeans, tracksuits, polo shirts, hoodies, slippers, hoodies, wallets, hats., baseball jerseys, polo shirts, jumpers, bags and joggers. They’ve not held back here and released just a few t-shirts, and I think it will be highly successful as the black and gold styles looks great.

Separating them from the standard Sik Sik fare is Messi’s name on the taping, and a crown on the embroidered logo which gives a similarity to rivals Gym King. The collection has a premium feel, and does come up a higher price point.

But it looks good quality and should have mass appeal. It’s not clear if the collection will go in the Sik Silk Black Friday sale, and early sales will dictate this I expect. If it flies off the shelves they will likely keep it out.

Who is Leo Messi?

Lionel Andrés Messi is considered one of the best players in the world and of his generation, with only Cristiano Ronaldo even up for healthy debate as a rival. Leo Messi was born and raised in Argentina, but relocated to Spain at age 13 to join Barcelona.

Until this summer had spent his entire career in Spain with the Catalan Club setting records that will not be surpassed including:

• Six Ballon d’Or awards
• Six European Golden Shoes
• Barcelona club-record of 35 trophies (ten La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey titles and four UEFA Champions Leagues)
• Most total goals in La Liga (474)
• Most goals in a La Liga season (50)
• Most goals in a European league season (50)
• Most hat-tricks in La Liga (36)
• Most hat-tricks in the UEFA Champions League (8)
• Most hat-tricks in the Copa América (17)

The Covid-19 pandemic has seen more people work from home and work remotely than ever. It’s looking like this trend will continue post-pandemic, as many companies have made the decision to move permanently to remote working, or have offered their employees a hybrid approach of working some days in the office, and others at home.

Digital nomads worked remotely before the pandemic made it more efficient to do so, but it can be difficult to know where to start. All you really need is a laptop, and somewhere to travel to.

What is a digital nomad?

A digital nomad is an individual who does their job remotely from various locations across the world. Their location of choice is often in local coffee shops, libraries or from home. Digital nomads rely on wifi to connect to their phone or laptop so they can work remotely in any environment.

What are the benefits of working as a digital nomad?

Working remotely may suit individuals differently, however, there are actually many benefits to working in this manner, especially under the current climate of Covid-19.

You’ll likely be more productive

An individual can be motivated by a whole host of things, but adventure can certainly be one of them. When you want to go out and explore your new area, you’re more likely to want to get your work finished, so you can go out and explore. Most employees will be more productive in a new environment because of the excitement of entering something new, even if the work isn’t new at all.

Your creativity levels will be up

Being in a new environment and experiencing different things can lead to a spike in creativity levels. When your brain is exposed to different experiences, it creates new synaptic connections and therefore new ideas come flooding in too.

You will learn key skills like versatility and adaptability

Your comfort zone is a, well, comfortable place to be and is often achieved when you work an office job. However, what your comfort zone doesn’t teach you is skills like adaptability. When you’re constantly being pushed outside of your comfort zone by travelling to new places, you learn to easily adapt to change and it will strengthen those skills which can then be taken forward into the workplace.

It gives you time outside of work to enjoy life

Life is supposed to be lived and not worked, so it’s important that you get time off work too, to enjoy it. Being motivated leads to work being completed faster, which leaves you with time. Time to spend exploring, or with family and friends. Let’s be honest, you don’t have to be a Technogypsie and live out a van, but it’s sure nice knowing you have that flexibility.

How do I find work if I’m a digital nomad?

Start by speaking to your current employer and don’t be afraid to ask them about working remotely. The IT industry naturally lends itself to being a digital nomad, as the work is mainly done on a computer. Most of the time your employer will be willing to speak to you about it, and they may even offer you a hybrid approach where you work both in the office and remote.

However, if you’re looking for somewhere new to work, a great way to start is to send out a letter of inquiry to the company asking for a remote working approach. By asking whether they have any remote positions available, you’re showing that you’re not only interested in their company, but you’re also willing to work remotely too.

How does being a digital nomad in the IT industry work?

As just stated, it’s relatively easy to be a digital nomad in the world of IT, because most IT work is completed on a computer or laptop – and these can easily be moved. For example, some of the jobs which work the best as remote jobs are programmers, website developers and SEO specialists.

It can be scary to take the plunge to commit to never going back into the office ever again, but once you’ve taken the initial plunge, becoming a digital nomad can be one of the most freeing things you can commit to. Being able to work from wherever you want, you’ll see a rise in both your creativity and motivation, which are two huge benefits, not only for you but for your employer as well.