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The Loungewear Revolution: “Two-Piece Lounge Sets” up 650%

Claire James
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The Loungewear Revolution: “Two-Piece Lounge Sets” up 650%

Today’s shopper is prioritising one thing over anything else these days—comfort. And when something that is comfortable is also trendy, fashion-conscious shoppers get a double whammy. According to reports from the Guardian, we Brits are working harder than ever before. Long, hard, weeks at work are made marginally better through comfortable clothing that we can relax in, which is resonating with us when we’re working from home.

Even before the majority of us were working from home, there was an increased demand for loungewear. An increase in flexible working hours and a growing freelance workforce helped drive this demand. The global loungewear market is forecasted to grow nine per cent—$19.5bn—from 2020 to 2024, with the year-on-year growth rate predicted at 7.6 per cent at the end of 2024. There have been a number of brands that have been launched with this in mind, with athleticwear designed to be exercised and relaxed in.

With loungewear soaring in popularity, it begs the question—which loungewear takes the crown?

Comfort starts with shoes

Just like we need to keep our feet warm to avoid being cold, our feet must be comfortable so we are content holistically. Comfort starts with our feet and shoes. Imagine walking barefoot over pebbles or venturing around in eight-inch stilettos all day. You’d be incredibly sore and restless. Comfortable, flat shoes are taking reign at the moment, with our research finding that trainers and slides have soared in popularity.

Google Trend data showed that searches for “how to wear trainers with dresses” and “best shoes to wear around the house” increased 600% and 800%, respectively, over a year, with comfort taking priority for today’s fashion. Interest in slides increased 19.7% over a five-year period, showing a steady but consistent increase year-on-year.

Market research agency Mintel found that women in the UK are choosing to buy trainers rather than heels, with 37% investing in trainers and 33% opting for high heels. With luxury brands cashing in on this lucrative market, finding comfort that is stylish has never been easier.

Loungewear dilemmas

We explored Google data to find out what people are searching for the most when it comes to styling loungewear. We looked at the average monthly searches and how much these have increased from July 2019 to July 2020.

According to the data, “two-piece lounge sets” had 4,314 monthly searches, up 650% from the year before. This was followed closely by “women’s loungewear set” with 3,929 monthly searches up 494%, and “ribbed loungewear set” with 3,700 searches up 60%.

Popular celebrities who are influential of the fashion industry, such as Gigi Hadid and Kim Kardashian-West, are helping drive high fashion loungewear adoption. Kim Kardashian-West recently released her own SKIMS brand of loungewear and underwear in the UK. Dubbed the ‘Netflix and Chill’ generation, many younger people are less about fear of missing out and more about the joy of missing out. This follows conversations around mental health and self-confessed introverts choosing to stay in as a form of self-care.

With the rise of androgynous identities in fashion, unisex clothing and gender fluidity is rising. The relaxed shapes of loungewear aligns with the gender-neutral movement.

We’re not surprised to see the rising popularity of trainers and flat shoes with casual fashion taking the world by storm. There is less need for suits and high heels and more for flat shoes and snuggly loungewear. Which do you prefer?

Sun Virtualization – pros and cons by Alexey Khobot

ABC Staff
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Sun Virtualization – pros and cons by Alexey Khobot

Platforms are coming up fast in the area of virtualization. The main area of interest for us is cloud computing, and here’s why.

Need for Robust Storage

With more and more storage devices around and becoming faster, there is demand for involving storage devices into the ordinary computing fabric. Robust Storage across heterogeneous platforms is what customers are looking for.

Benefits of Heterogeneous Platform Storage

Alexey Khobot explains how “Enterprise organizations need to store more than their applications. StoragePerformance ManagementSystems which include storage, handle many transaction types, and provide mechanisms for distributing workloads to storage devices show a commitment to persistent data and are thus challenging the storage architects to bring all stakeholders together to effectively develop and maintain an environment. Storage Association solutions are needed to enable and leverage storage innovation while significantly minimizing the cost of delivering storage”.

The Cost Advantage in Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is an attractive proposition for enterprises thanks to the economics of scale that it provides. Traditionally, major strides have been made in the database side architecture. In the Sun Microsystems acquired37 out of AOL, Yahoo, Skype, Beats, etc. for a total of $7.3 billion. The release on the storage technology helps to integrate the document capabilities, service quality, and document management into a single vision.

New directions in Storage

The mismatch between cloud computing adoption rate and lack of resources is resulting in a lack ofDrive Readyimplementation then storage implementations. There is a rapid need for a drive ready successor to Blulite volumes.

Cloud Storage Advantages

Conclusion

Whether you are managing the data for a business or by yourself, cloud is the way to go. This is already driving innovation and delivery of computing resources as never seen before. What’s missing is a global regulatory framework that can embrace the public, private and hybrid clouds together. What is preventing this from happening is the ability to gain mainstream understanding and acceptance, and also a standard protocol that is more easily supported by hardware and software vendors.

With the rapid adoption of virtualization and cloud computing, the world is accelerating towards a paperless and linear future. Virtualization and cloud computing are providing the world with the ability to organize our resources, information and processes into a self-service, digitized environment. The greatest cost savings is in maintenance and operations and demands a constant, automated flow of production data. With the synchronous advancement of computing technologies, the productivity of every employee, expert, developer and manager are aligned to a work process that operates irrespective of location, while rely on a core team of professionals to focus on their particular area of expertise.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

It allows you to use software over the internet at a lower cost and with lower installations. It’s easy to use cloud platforms because it does not require an installation of hardware or software. You can access your files using your laptop, tablet, smartphone or even an iPodience. It’s a web-based interface and uses a standard web browser to work with.

Cloud computing is ideal for on-demand as well as on-site data storage. You can easily store low-cost data on the cloud for a monthly fee that could amount to hundreds of dollars for some businesses. Cloud computing is a scalable technology and doesn’t require capital expenditure. With pay-as-you-go charges, you can only purchase as much storage space as you need.

Cloud storage makes your data accessible anywhere and is not limited to a single device or location. Cloud data is accessible from hundreds of devices, giving you the flexibility to access your data from home, in the office, and while traveling. You don’t have to worry about lost or stolen devices as the storage is stored on a secure server.

Cloud-based applications allow you to access your data from any device, at any time. You can easily create a storage area, limited by your available storage capacity, and schedule it as desired. You can also specify which devices should access the data and which ones should store it. You can limit access to your data by designating which devices process data. This allows you to ensure that your data is not accessed by unauthorized individuals.

Cloud computing allows you to process real-time data and store it in real-time across multiple platforms. You can process the data on the cloud, through the internet, or using private cloud networks that are accessible through your devices.

“Cloud computing allows you to make your data available to the next generation of computers and prevent it from being trapped by the initialists. Once your data is on the cloud, no one can prevent computing onto it or denying access to it.” Alexey Khobot adds.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing technology offers widespread advantages, some of which are:

Cloud Computing Advances the page layout and formatting of documents

Cloud computing can completely transform how businesses present their data.

Antivirus Firewall Software – How to Select One for Your Computer by Alexey Khobot

ABC Staff
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Antivirus Firewall Software – How to Select One for Your Computer by Alexey Khobot

Our World is constantly changing and the new era demands use of advance technology such as computers and software designed for a specific environment. Whether it is a workplace or a home, antivirus firewall software is important to have in order to protect one’s overall system. One can choose from among the great variety of antivirus software which includes Norton, McAfee, AVG, Microsoft Security Essentials, Avast, Trend Micro, Symantec, and many others. All these software are great options to protect your computer.

“With the arrival of internet, our whole world became accessible to all, we are now exposed to a lot of information from all over the globe, it is really hard to be safe from the dangerous viruses which come all the time.” explains Alexey Khobot. No need to download all the software separately, all the protection software is to say, all the software that can make your use PC secure from the numerous troubles which he can create.

AVG Antivirus firewall software, is ranked among the best and it is really amazing and useful software which can be used for your computer. If you are using a AVG with firewall, you are making a really good decision. Not only this software is ranked among the best but it is also considered to be the most used and it is normal for people to want to have their product within reach. AVG not only protects your computer from the bad viruses but it also defender you from the powerful and rare viruses which can damage your PC.

McAfee software is a complete package to provide protection to your computer from viruses, it has a firewall and online detected threats. If you are a frequent internet surfer, McAfee is a better option for you. McAfee provides a free version to use although you can upgrade your software. The features of this software are more comprehensive and easy to use. Like AVG, McAfee also provides a free version for its users. The installation process is hassle free and it takes just a few minutes to install the software. Since it is designed to provide the maximum protection to your computer, it is designed to gradually affect the computer and let you know about the threats even before they affect your PC.

A large number of security programs are compatible with each other and all these programs run in a matter of few seconds taking the guesswork out of installing them and keeping them up to date. They also act as firewalls, filters and the entire system maintenance maintaining a device which runs in the background and filters all the information Streams etc. preventing any unauthorized entry and allowing you to surf, access your email, protection, secure you credit card details etc.

Norton Antivirus is also a good option, it provides a layered defense system within the memory of your computer, acts as a router and a firewall; this software comes with a backup wherein you can recover your data if it is destroyed and also gives you the task of falluating the program if your computer is attacked; the software is downloadable from a number of websites a.k.a. computerfence. There is also Norton Antivirus which is easy to install, effective, and easy to manage and maintain.

Free web security downloads and a link to they website where you can download the software is provided, this is to let you know that you are not downloading software that is problematic and also provides a free scan which you can download at a later date.

This software provides you with the task of maintaining the security of your computer system; it also allows you to surf, post or copy certain documents while it is running and also protects you from unwanted downloads. The software is restricted to certain areas of the internet and you are not allowed to download any program into your computer without the permission of the software. The internet speed is controlled by the software.

Installing the software is quick and easy; the only thing that you need to do is to double click on the install icon. A series of simple instructions explore all the areas of the software interface screen and you are soon looking forward to how you can use this software to check your email, surf, access your bank account etc…

Downloading this software is easy, just double click on the download icon and click on run and follow the installation prompts. You will be asked to register for an account; fill in your details and click the next button. The software is absolutely safe and will not record any information about you.

“Norton Antivirus 2010 is definitely one of the best software which helps you protect your computer system; it offers a protection system that is fully developed and it has state of the art features. The features are effective and it has many other forms of support for the software.” concluded Alexey Khobot.

Business Travels: How Companies Can Benefit From Train Travel

Sam Allcock
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Business Travels: How Companies Can Benefit From Train Travel

Business travels are becoming more common nowadays, growing into a necessity more than a perk for bankers, sales executives, and many others.  Some longer than others, business travellers have an important role in the travel industry, especially train travel.

More workers now prefer face-to-face meetings to virtual meetings done through a service business scheduling software or a WordPress booking system and conference calls, making business travels one of the biggest time and money losses for companies.

A business travel study conducted by Travelodge, a UK hotel operator, revealed that 46 per cent of workers across London regularly travel for work, with an average of up to three days a week.  46 per cent of the participants stated that they are more productive during business trips.

Travelodge’s Spokesperson, Shakila Ahmed, said: “Travel has become a big part of modern business, thanks to technology. Nowadays you can potentially work anywhere”.

Although the time spent by workers to commute to meet clients or colleagues count as paid working time, this can cost thousands of pounds for businesses.

According to Statista, business travel spending in the UK from 2010 to 2017 amounted to approximately £38.46 billion.

With the rise of business travels, companies are urged to understand the exact costs of each trip in order to choose the best vehicle to travel with. This article looks at some beneficial aspects of train travel, which could help companies save money on business trips. With over 2,563 train stations across the UK, train travel is without doubt one of the most accessible options for business travel.

Work on board

A great benefit of train travel for businesses is the opportunity to work during your journey. The train becomes an office-on-the-go, allowing workers to be productive while travelling. This level of flexibility isn’t always possible on road travels, and even less common when travelling by air.

Unlimited WiFi

Opting for rail as opposed to road or other travelling mediums is also beneficial to workers who can get WiFi connection onboard most trains. WiFi allows workers to check their emails, keep a constant communication with their clients, and even work on important presentations. Being able to review meeting notes and presentations might sound of minimum importance, but this often removes stress and anxiety off work commuters, as it helps them feel more prepared prior to their work appointments.

Rail card discounts

As mentioned above, train travel is beneficial to reduce costs. Most employees can qualify for Rail Cards, which offer up to 30 per cent discount on train tickets. Spending £30 for a one-year rail card could save you up to a third off standard rail fares on every trip.

Charging devices

Train travel is beneficial for workers for another key reason: charging electronic devices. Workers tend to travel with two or more devices on each work trip and there are chances that a work laptop will need topping up of charge during the journey. On trains, sockets are easily accessible and free to use.

Delay refunds

Unlike road travels for instance, travellers can apply for a full refund in case of railway delays. If you were involved in intense traffic while driving to a work trip, you wouldn’t be entitled for any form of refund. In addition to losing precious time, you lose money as well. But with rail travel, commuting it’s handy to get the company some money back in case of a delay.

With that said, we can fairly conclude that train travels are probably the most beneficial alternatives for workers on business trips. The reasons we saw above make work trips more productive and of easy access. In addition, both employers and employees can enjoy the benefits and comforts of rail travels as opposed to other modes of transport.

Sources

https://londonlovesbusiness.com/london-workers-are-now-taking-more-business-trips-than-ever-before/

https://www.peninsulagrouplimited.com/guides/travelling-for-work-law/

https://www.statista.com/statistics/277883/business-travel-spending-united-kingdom/

https://www.roomex.com/blog/train-travel-for-business

REVEALED: Top Seasonal Marketing Ideas for Your Business

Sam Allcock
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REVEALED: Top Seasonal Marketing Ideas for Your Business

As the winter months commence, there are many national days and seasonal events that lie ahead. With the build-up to Christmas, now is more important than ever for businesses to invest in some unique marketing ideas.

Of course, not all days are applicable to every business. However, numerous days are coming up that businesses can not only celebrate but profit from too – you just need an effective marketing campaign. With this in mind, we discuss some innovative tips that businesses can use to help make the most out of their winter marketing campaigns.

Cyber Monday madness

The most chaotic day of the year when it comes to online purchases, Cyber Monday is something that the majority of businesses can benefit from this November 30th.

Since many of us now opt for online shopping instead of the high-street, be sure to place an emphasis on the marketing of your website. For example, rather than wait a day before Cyber Monday to launch your products page, give customers a sneak-peak for what is to come several weeks before the actual day. That way, your online users will be encouraged to place your products on the top of their Cyber Monday shopping list.

You can also use Cyber Monday as a way to improve your communication with your customers. Add a pop-up questionnaire to your campaign a few weeks before the main event to gain a further understanding as to what your customers would like to see discounted on Cyber Monday. This could be incredibly effective for businesses that sell more expensive products, such as jewellery or electronics. Questionnaires on your site that ask customers what type of products they have been waiting to see the price tag drop on creates the impression that you’re letting them be in charge of Cyber Monday!

Cutting costs and saving the environment on Christmas Day  

Perhaps the most anticipated day of the year, Christmas Day provides an atmosphere of joy, happiness, and optimism. Focus your marketing campaign in the build-up to Christmas on your environmental responsibility. For example, promote a scheme whereby for every recyclable item a customer brings to the store, they receive a discount on their Christmas food shopping. Not only does this promote your environmental values but also the cost-cutting methods you’re offering this Christmas.

Other than Christmas food, the e-commerce industry can also make the most out of this festivity. For the likes of clothing stores, home appliance providers, or even electrical retailers, you could create a virtual gift guide for your online readers. For example, if you’re a clothing store, you could style an outfit including everything from jeans to a t-shirt to shoes, and sell it for a bundle price. Since it tends to be a struggle for all of us at times to find a gift that our family or friends will make use out of, market your campaign to show that you have done the hard work already! To wrap the campaign up nicely, be sure to promote the additional gift wrap packaging you can add on for just a small added fee.

New Year’s marketing resolutions

As far as New Year’s resolutions go, it’s fair to say we as a nation don’t have a reputation for sticking to them. However, show your customers some support with their goals through an inspirational marketing campaign.

For the likes of gyms and fitness centres, it’s important to motivate your customers all year round. Rather than them hearing the same old inspirational quotes, let the public voice theirs. By using your social media channels, websites, or even email campaigns, set up an ‘inspirational quote’ competition for your customers to take part in. Not only will this encourage your online activity, but your customers have the power to make it go viral! May the best quote win.

Since many people set their New Year’s resolution to become more organised, the likes of stationery shops could be at a marketing advantage when it comes to this. Market items such as calendars, office or school folders, and notebooks to put organisation at the heart of your advertising. TV advertisements or social media posts could read: ‘Plan your 2021 with our stationery range and achieve your New Year’s resolution the organised way’ to give your products a central purpose.

There is no limit as to what can be customised with a New Year’s touch. Consider the corner shop favourite, the double slush machine, for example. Make a fresh start with a fresh new slushie range, bringing in an array of new colours and flavourings to welcome in the New Year.  

There are an abundance of national days and events your business can use to financially benefit from all year round. As the world continues to live through difficult and seemingly unpredictable times, it’s vital that businesses take every opportunity they can this winter to encourage customers and drive sales.

Cairn Reveal Scotland is the Most Popular Destination for Staycation Searches

Sam Allcock
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Cairn Reveal Scotland is the Most Popular Destination for Staycation Searches

San Sebastian and Seville might be off the cards this summer, but Scotland is certainly not, and it appears Brits are ready to make the journey to the Land of the Brave in search of a much-needed break.

Fears of quarantine on arrival to the destination, or on return to the UK, accompanied by warnings from the government that you shouldn’t be travelling abroad unnecessarily thanks to Covid-19 risks, have meant staycation searches on Google have skyrocketed.

Scotland, however, has trumped alternative destinations when it comes to growth in search trends year on year, having grown 532% on 2019.

Of course, the Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon has somewhat of a different agenda to that of UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson when it comes to restrictions – however, it’s certainly worthwhile taking a look at what is making the nation such a desired location!

NC500

Intrepid travellers trek for thousand of miles just to indulge in a decent road trip. From the Great Ocean Road in Australia to the Alcan Highway in Canada, the world is awash with a number of breathtaking roads, but you don’t even need to leave the UK to be able to embrace something so spectacular.

The North Coast 500 is a route that starts and ends in the UK’s most northerly city, Inverness. Covering 516-miles, you’ll pass a number of distilleries, John O’Groats, and a plethora of utterly stunning scenery on your way. Few trips on the planet offer up as much of a variety as the NC500 does.

The only thing we’d recommend, however, and this goes for much of your trip to Scotland, is to remember wellies and a raincoat — it wouldn’t be unfair to suggest that the weather is unpredictable!

Whether you’re a golfer, a history-boff, or a self-proclaimed foodie, we’re confident that you’ll love it!

From bag pipes to club nights

While the Highlands can be ticked off with a trip on the NC500, the cities further south and closer to the English border and Irish Sea crossing offer a wide variety of alternatives.

Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland is home to a vibrant nightlife and a diverse shopping street often likened to the ‘Style Mile’. Visit King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut to gain a better understanding as to why this Scottish city is a NESCO City Of Music.

Edinburgh, the capital, on the other hand is unlike any other place you’ll visit in the world. The main shopping districts of George Street and Princes Street sit in the shadow of the dominating castle, which, perched on a hill, above the city, is an architectural masterpiece. Mary King’s Close offers visitors one of the most fascinating stories — a city beneath the city, that remains intact!

Stirling, Scotland’s lesser known city, meanwhile played host to the Battle of Bannockburn and houses the Wallace Monument, making it an area steeped in Scottish history. Furthermore, if you are looking to visit either of the other two major cities, setting up camp in a Stirling Hotel couldn’t be more appropriate, given its midway location.

Something for everyone

Whether you’re heading off on a couple’s retreat or you’re taking the family away for a fun-filled holiday, you’ll not be left wanting more in the way of activities when you visit Scotland.

Many visitors with time on their hands will attempt to bag at least one of the Munros, of which there are 282 off. Alternatively, if you’re not feeling up to climbing a 3,000+ feet mountain, there are plenty of other options, including Arthur’s Seat in the capital, which offers those who ascend an uninterrupted view of the city.

While the Cairngorms mountain range allows for skiing in winter, you’ll be able to seize the opportunity to embark on mountain biking trails or water sports during the warmer months – perfect for keeping the kids entertained.

Although Edinburgh houses one of the world’s most impressive zoos, which is certainly worth a visit if you’re in the vicinity, there are a number of wildlife parks and aquariums dotted across the country, including the Highland Widllife Park in Kincraig, Camperdown Park in Dundee, and Calderglen Country Park in East Kilbride.

With so much on offer, it should come as no surprise that Scotland is up there as one of the most sought-after destinations for a staycation. While we’re confident that you’ll be raring to go, getting your bags packed and heading for the border, it is advised to check with Scotland’s social distancing rules prior to travelling!

What is environmentally conscious building?

Sam Allcock
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What is environmentally conscious building?

Over the course of the last twenty years or so, there have been several methods used to make construction greener and more sustainable. For example, the use of solar panels and the integration of eco-friendly, biodegradable materials into building design have been tried and tested.

Within the construction industry, advances continue to happen as people look in closer detail at how buildings are created.

Environmentally conscious building, also known as sustainable construction, is an innovative idea that introduces more environmentally, socially and economically aware construction methods – and today NBS, the global integrated platform provider, are going to delve deeper into just what ‘environmentally conscious building’ is and what it can help achieve.

Why do construction methods need to improve?

As an industry, construction has a significant impact on the natural environment, economy, and society. As the industry grows, and materials become more limited and costly, traditional methods need to be adapted to keep them fit for purpose. Three critical areas of concern are energy, waste and CO2 production.

Globally, construction consumes almost 40% of total worldwide energy production, produces 30-40% of all solid wastes and between 35-40% of CO2. By using environmentally conscious building methods such solar technology, the industry can use new technologies and make the end design and structure far more sustainable.

In the UK, the construction industry is using sustainable construction techniques to help meet their target of reducing CO2 emissions by 50%, with 50% faster delivery and 33% lower costs from initial construction all the way through the life span of an erected building.

Techniques that are environmentally friendly

One of the main design techniques being adopted throughout the construction industry across the world is green building. Green roofs are often an aesthetic choice as well as a sustainable one, with the appearance of plants and flowers raising the building’s appeal to investors, workers, residents and visitors.

A good example of green vegetation-based roofing is the ACROS Fukuoka Prefectural International Hall.  Greenery is placed on the slanted side of the building to enhance its beauty. An additional benefit is the way in which the building blends with its environmental surroundings while still using as much of the site as possible – improving the building’s long-term economic sustainability in the process.

Another environmentally friendly technique being explored involves building methods that enables skilled workers to create structures offsite and then transport them to the site location. Offsite construction typically takes less time, and less raw material may be needed to complete a project.

An example of this is Sunderland’s Northern Spire Bridge, where the majority of the concrete deck components were precast offsite. The decision was a positive step-change to casting the concrete parts onsite, which can often result in noise and mess, whilst requiring more workers and creating more waste in terms of time and materials.

Researchers are also looking into how they can adapt current materials to make them more sustainable. Universities tend to carry out this research, with Cambridge’s exploration of self-healing concrete a perfect example.

Project lifecycle

When looking at how to develop and use environmentally conscious techniques, many aspects hinge on whether they will be successful throughout the building’s lifecycle. This includes planning, design and construction through to building operation and maintenance – including refurbishment and even potential demolition.

numerous factors can impact a building when looking at an asset’s operational stage – and who will use it and how. For instance, building users produce moisture, therefore, systems must be put into place to ensure efficient moisture removal.

The more organic material used in a building the more ventilation is needed, and this can lead to building financing issues. Therefore, a balance must be struck to ensure that guidelines are followed.

What happens after the building has served its purpose also needs to be considered. In the past, this stage of the lifecycle has often been overlooked, creating unanticipated difficulties during demolition.

Future of environmentally conscious building

As the construction industry has become more aware of the vital role it plays in wider society, sustainable approaches to construction have become more frequently used. These include walls that self-regulate indoor temperatures and buildings made from living trees such as the Citicape House in London, which incorporates the largest living wall in Europe.

 In future, environmentally conscious methods such as the ones mentioned in this article could lead to a new and improved built environment. The possibilities are endless and could improve construction efficiency as well as provide economic gains and improvements to physical health.

Countryside Staycation Escapes: Your Northern Bucket List

Sam Allcock
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Countryside Staycation Escapes: Your Northern Bucket List

As the UK continues to live through difficult times, many of us have relied on trips away from home to escape reality for a while. Although our plans to soak up the sun somewhere abroad this year may be off the cards, this opens up the opportunity for us to explore the stunning British countryside.

With this said, where better to admire the views the UK has to offer than in the north of England? Home to rural hotspots including national parks, lakes, reservoirs, castles, and even gardens, the North is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

From long hikes to cosy cafes out in the wilderness, we discuss the best Northern locations to visit. We also look at the activities you and the family can engage in.

The beauty of the lake district

It’s a well-known fact the Lake District is a hotspot for those that love long treks up challenging mountain faces and bike rides through the forests . So much so, recent data finds that searches for ‘Lake District holidays’ draws in an average of 8100 searches per month.

For those that are eager to explore the beauty that this district holds, it’s important to know the most popular places to visit. According to recent search data, ‘Helvellyn’ is the most searched for attraction, accounting for an average of 27,100 monthly searches. Situated between the natural waters of Ullswater, Thirlmere, and Grasmere, Helvellyn is a 950-metre tall mountain that is ideal for expeditious walking enthusiasts. Absorb the stunning views of the Lake District and get your heart pumping on the trek of a lifetime.

For those that prefer a less physically demanding trek in the countryside, Lake Windemere is the second most favoured activity to try in the Lakes District. It accounts for an average of 22,200 monthly searches. Renowned for being the longest body of water in England stretching a staggering 10.5 miles, it is surrounded by mountains, forest regions, and parklands. If you are looking for a way to give the walking boots a rest for a day, jump in a boat trip journey across the lake. Or, take part in a water sports experience. You could also indulge in the history behind Wray Castle that is located on the western shore of this stunning lake.

If you want to test the waters of your hiking ability before attempting one of the larger mountains in the Lakes, take a trek up Catbells first. This short, yet steep climb appears to be the third most popular activity to indulge in, accounting for an average of 12,100 searches per month.  

The wonders of Northumberland

Situated in the North East of England, this historic county is rich with picturesque landscapes and forests. With ‘Northumberland holidays’ accounting for 1,000 average searches per month, this is the ideal rural getaway.

As for activities, Alnwick Castle appears to be the main attraction that draws visitors to this stunning county. Rich with history and medievalism, Alnwick Castle accounts for an average of 49,500 searches per month. It is more recently famous for being the partial filming place for the iconic movie series Harry Potter.  If you too are a wizarding world devotee, take a trip to Alnwick Castle and discover where the magic began. 

Stop overnight in an Alnwick accommodation and make a pitstop at Alnwick Garden whilst you’re in the area. Accounting for an average monthly search of 18,100, this garden complex is bursting with wildlife. It has picturesque views and relaxing walks through the wilderness.

With 8,100 searches per month, the Farne Islands are ideal for keen adventurers that enjoy boat trips to the rugged Northumberland Coastline. Setting sale in Seahouses, enjoy a variety of boat trips. From sunset cruises, to diving experiences, the Farne Islands have an activity suited for everyone’s interests.

The history of Yorkshire

Located in the southern regions of Northern England, Yorkshire is bursting with history. The area welcomes thousands of tourists every year. ‘Yorkshire holidays’ is, unsurprisingly, searched an average of 1,000 times per month.

If you’re wondering what others have done during their visit here, ‘Yorkshire Wildlife Park’ has the highest number of average searches at 90,500.  Since its opening in 2009, this park is home to over 70 different species of animals. The park is considered to be a dynamic centre of conservation and welfare.

Located eight miles outside the charming town of Harrogate, the mystery that is ‘Brimham rocks’ appears to be of high interest to visitors. The term is searched an average of 22,200 times per month. With a history spanning over 340 million years, these rocks are a geological gold mine for those interested in all things historic. This site is a result of the collision of two continental plates many centuries ago.

Alive with history and striving in antiquity, the ‘National Railway Museum’ is a highly sought-after tourist destination too. The museum clocks an average monthly search of 12,100. Dedicated to educating its visitors about the engineering fascination of railways, this museum hosts an admirable collection of engineering brilliance and innovation.

Country Durham’s days out 

Home to the mighty High Force waterfall and picturesque city centre, County Durham is full of activities for people of all ages. Other than the abundance of woodland treks and adventures to enthral on, take a break from walking and visit Beamish Museum. Accounting for an average of 22,200 monthly searches, Beamish Museum reflects what it was like to live in North East England during the 1820s and 1950s.

For more history-fuelled adventure, Durham Cathedral boasts almost a millennium of pilgrimage, worship, and history since 1093. Accounting for an average of 14,800 searches per month, this cathedral consists of more than just a tranquil place to sit and absorb the beauty of its remarkable structure.  

As for other structures that lure a medieval aura, Raby Castle appears to be another popularly searched destination, averaging at 9,900 searches per month. Dating as far back as the 14th century, the Raby estate features not only the manor house that the Viking King himself, Canute II the great, built himself, but also the Neville family who built a castle that still stands today.

When it comes to staycation holidays away, the North of England is the perfect place to switch the phone off and get the walking boots on, as you discover the natural beauties this splendid, rural region has to offer.

Sources

All the Walking Routes up Helvellyn

https://englishlakes.co.uk/lake-district-attractions/lake-windermere/

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/brimham-rocks/features/geology-and-history-of-brimham-rocks

https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk/about-us

Which Dog Breeds Are Best to Walk Together?

Claire James
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Which Dog Breeds Are Best to Walk Together?

“WALKIES!” The sound dogs across the nation love to hear. Dogs desperately need their daily walks whether that is done by the owner or a professional dog walker. However, do you know which ones are best to walk together? There are many different factors you need to consider including size, temperament, and personality. Whether you just walk your dogs for fun or do it as a profession, we will discuss which dogs are best to walk together.

Matching breeds together

Here we have created a table showing the which of the most popular breeds according to Rover.com are best to pair together based on their size, behaviours, personalities, and strength.

Breed Name Pairs Best With
Mixed Breeds The breeds they are mixed with
Jack Russell Terrier West Highland White Terriers, Bichon Frise, Yorkshire Terriers, Pug, Chihuahua, Dachshund, Shih Tzu
French Bulldog Golden Retriever, German Shepard, Labrador, Staffordshire Bull Terriers
Cocker Spaniel Cockapoo, Springer Spaniel, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Beagle Border Collie

Small dogs

Small dogs such as the Jack Russell Terrier and the breeds it is matched with all go together due to their size. It’s an obvious choice to walk breeds with shorter legs together. Dogs with shorter legs are not going to need as long a walk as dogs with longer legs. If you do this, you risk tiring and potentially harming the smaller dogs.

Another reason to walk breeds such as Shih Tzus and Pugs together is because of their small snouts means they have a smaller breathing capacity and can’t go on very long walks.

A concern with smaller dogs being around especially larger ones is not just the size difference being a problem but, as Pawversity, the pet information site says, “Having a small ‘prey-like’ pup around could trigger a larger dog’s predatory drift instinct, putting the little dog at risk.”

Generally though, having the smaller dogs together means that they will be able to play and socialise more easily with dogs of their own size without you having to constantly worry one may be accidentally hurt by another dog.

Working dogs

The Beagle is a gun dog and therefore needs to be kept stimulated, as do Border Collies, which are known as sheep herding dogs. Therefore, they are best paired together. When taking them on walks, being able to keep them stimulated by the places you take them or keeping them distracted with toys would be the best for them.

Strong dogs

You might be confused as to why the French Bulldog is paired with dogs of a much bigger size. This is because of their strength. Even though Bulldogs are smaller dogs, because they are strong, they do not do well with dogs of a similar size that are active. As such, pair this small dog with a larger dog with a calmer temperament, such as a Labrador or Golden Retriever. It is still wise to supervise them in case the larger dog mistakenly harms the small dog.

Breeds together

With both the mixed breeds and Cocker Spaniels, they have been paired with the same breeds since they socialise well with other dogs, so they will be okay with their own breed. Due to being the same breeds, they are all a similar size and therefore will need similar walks in terms of length and terrain.  

Dog advice website the Dog Clinic says that, “All dogs need exercise but how much varies depending on the individual. The breed is a major factor.”

With cross breeds, because the breeds are alike, they are going to be a similar size and have the same type of personality. This means it will be easier for these breeds to socialise and play together without the risk of them hurting or getting angry with each other due to the differences in their stature and personalities.

Other breeds

Most breeds will be ok together personality-wise and will usually follow the lead of their human; if the human likes the dog then so will they. But according to Sprucepets, there are a few aggressive breeds that might not get along with other dogs, such as the Kerry Blue Terrier and the American Pit Bull.

Another thing you may not have thought of is dogs may also get affected by the humans around them. Herding dogs may want to chase bicyclists and joggers, so keeping those breeds together and maybe changing their walking route to avoid people on bikes and joggers as much as you can will make life a lot easier for you and keep the dogs a lot calmer. This also goes for Sighthounds who may feel the urge to chase too, so keep them away from the rabbits and squirrels in the park.

Overall, the best way to keep you and your pups safe if you dog-walk as a profession is by getting a type of insurance for dog walkers. Insurance will cover you if anything goes wrong when looking after a group of dogs to keep peace of mind for you and the dogs’ owners. By choosing the right breeds to stay together, your dogs should be safe and happy with their other doggo companions.

Adopting Rescue Dogs Could Save Hundreds of Lives

Claire James
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Adopting Rescue Dogs Could Save Hundreds of Lives

There have been plenty of difficult and emotional times over the last twelve months. The effects of COVID-19 are affecting everyone in some way and to some extent. One of the saddest revelations from lockdown was Dog’s Trust reporting a significant increase in people giving up their rescue dogs when lockdown restrictions were originally eased in August and owners realised they couldn’t fully commit to their dog, whether it was dealing with their allergies and needing hypoallergenic dog food, their unique behaviours, or needing socialisation.

Naturally, demand for puppies surged during lockdown, with ‘buy a puppy’ searches increasing 311 per cent according to Google search data from February, before lockdown to May, which saw the highest searches of 18,100 average searches.

The dog rehoming and rescue charity, who each year care for approximately 16,000 dogs nationwide, predicted last month that there could be 40,000 more stray or abandoned dogs who are in need of love and care. This is especially likely in the event that the UK’s economy worsens. For example, the financial crash of 2008 saw a 25.6 per cent increase in abandoned dogs the following year.

With restrictions tightening up again, it’s important we assess our needs properly. Here, we’ll explore the benefits of adopting a rescue dog—mutual benefits for both you and your furry four-legged friend.

Saving precious lives

Firstly, and most importantly, a key benefit is that when you rescue a dog from the shelter, you’re essentially saving its life. Depending on the animal shelter, some dogs may sadly be put to sleep if they aren’t rehomed after a period of time. If you are interested in getting a dog, rescuing one gives it another chance at a happy and fulfilling life. Although you could argue that the same could be said for puppies, there was actually a puppy shortage in lockdown. It is far more likely that puppies will be bought by interested potential owners.

You won’t be supporting puppy mills

We’re not saying that it’s unethical to buy puppies—after all, pups need homes too. But when buying puppies, you should do your own research to find out if you’d be indirectly supporting puppy farms. Dogs are kept in abhorrent conditions on puppy farms and puppy mills.

According to PETA, puppy mills are large-scale dog breeding factories that are overcrowded, dirty, and uncomfortable. These poor dogs don’t have access to adequate veterinary care, food, water, exercise, mental stimulation, and socialisation. Female dogs are constantly giving birth until they are unable to reproduce, when they are then put down. Profit is the sole aim, not the welfare of the dogs.

When you rescue a dog, this will be from an animal charity who put profit back into helping other dogs who don’t have a home. You won’t be lining the pockets of puppy mill owners and contributing to the increasing demand.

Get the breed you want

Got your heart set on a German Shepherd or a Hungarian Vizsla? Don’t worry about desperately searching rescue centres across the nation for your dream breed. There are breed specific rescue centres that can suit your circumstances. For additional information, check out these guides to the best breeds for city living and family life.

You can also look online to see what breeds are available at different Dog’s Trust rehoming centres. You can find out about their personality, what their needs are, what sort of home they’d need, and how much experience you’d need to accommodate their quirks.

You can skip the puppy days

Puppies are awesome—there is no two ways about it. But, depending on your situation, their energy and the amount of training and attention that needs to rear them into responsible young dog adults can be demanding. With older dogs, you’ll have a better idea of their temperament and can pick one to suit you and how your days are scheduled. For example, you’ll know if they should be in homes with other dogs or should be kept alone. These are characteristics you’ll be aware of and can jump straight into growing your relationship with each other.

You’ll have a friend for life

Now, we’re sure you’re no stranger to dog rescue videos on social media, and if you are, get searching on YouTube for the most wholesome content. Rescue dogs show visible differences and improvements in both their appearance and personalities after being adopted.

Rescuing a four-legged companion will gain you a friend for life—any strong bond between humans and dogs starts with quality time together. Change their lives and they’ll be your sidekick.

Improved mental health

A particularly important consideration given the current situation and restrictions tightening up again is the benefits on our mental health. But this goes for our new companions too, of course.

According to research, engaging with and stroking animals has significant effects on our moods, with animal-assisted therapy interventions used to help humans. Oxytocin, dubbed ‘the love hormone’ is released after stroking an animal, often released when people bond socially. The stronger the bond between human and dog, the more oxycontin is released.

You should only consider adopting a rescue dog if you’re serious about welcoming a dog into your life and family. Dogs are for life, not just for lockdown.

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