The Monday Piece - Staycations For Your Zodiac

This week's Monday Piece is on staycations for your zodiac!
To encourage people to take time to relax, PsychicWorld.com has matched a staycation idea to the personality trait of each zodiac sign. But don’t worry if you feel it’s too soon to travel now that lockdown measures are loosening; you can do all of the staycation ideas featured in this PR locally or from the comfort of your own home.

Sign: Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Staycation: Stage a Festival
While we have missed out on attending summer’s biggest festivals, it doesn’t mean we can’t stage our own at home! Those under the Aries sign are wild and bring life to any party, which makes staging a festival the perfect staycation idea. Aries love a challenge, so don’t panic if your garden screams anything but ready to rock. Start by pitching a flamboyant tent (the more colour and texture the better!) full to bursting with cosy cushions and blankets. Bunting, fairy lights and incense will heighten the atmosphere. All that’s left to think about is the playlist!

Sign: Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Staycation: Hiking at the Park
Bulls love being close to nature and relaxing in serene, rustic environments – so choose hiking at the park as your perfect staycation. Lace up your hiking boots, grab a handful of trail mix, and head to your nearest green space to soak up the sun and balance out that screen time. Remember, if hiking isn’t your thing, Taurus’ are earth signs and the best gardeners of the zodiac; staying home to tend to your plants works too.

Sign: Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Staycation: Backyard Glamping
Plain old camping won’t do it for a Gemini (they are akin to two people in one) so step it up a notch and go glamping. Demanding double the attention to detail, a luxury take on the great outdoors just might win a Gemini over. Plus, if you’re suffering from job burnout and want to feel pampered, a short glamping break offers an opportunity to regenerate every part of your complex character.

Sign: Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Staycation: Home Spa Day
While Capricorns are said to be the fathers of the zodiac signs, Cancerians are known to be the mothers of the zodiac signs as they are sensitive and effortlessly pick up on energy. A home spa day is the perfect staycation for Cancer signs because it permits an opportunity to practice self-care; care that would otherwise be spent on someone, or something, else. Grab your fluffiest robe and slippers, light candles and pop on a soothing face mask while you wait for your bubble bath to fill to the brim.

Sign: Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Staycation: Picnic
Leo is a fearless fire sign known to bask in the light, so grab a picnic blanket and head for the sunny spot! Whether you choose to picnic with family, friends or a romantic partner, you will take pleasure in feeling like a queen/king as a banquet is laid out before you. Leos are also humorous and warm-hearted so there’s no doubt you’ll make the perfect partner to converse with over a finger sandwich or two.  In terms of picnic prep, don’t worry if you’re not the domestic type, you can grab a takeaway from your favourite restaurant if they’re serving.

Sign: Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Staycation: Dine Alfresco
A food themed staycation also works for Virgos. But, for this hardworking, kind and loyal sign, make it a treat! Nothing says summertime more than dining alfresco on balmy evenings. Build a romantic scene, complete with elegant table settings, wildflowers and twinkling fairy lights, and take your taste buds on a tour of your favourite foods. This is a particularly special staycation for partners looking to show appreciation for their Virgo loved one.

Sign: Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Staycation: Outdoor Movie Marathon
A sweet and harmonious Libra loves the outdoors, much like a Taurus, but they also love to explore intellectual interests like reading and watching movies. Why not swap Netflix and chill for a screen under starlight? An outdoor movie marathon makes the perfect staycation for this sign – just be prepared to dissect the movie in detail! Your makeshift cinema can be as simple as pitching a tent, complete with throw pillows and popcorn, and propping your laptop nearby.

Sign: Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Staycation: Dip in the Hot Tub
Scorpio is the most sensual of the zodiac signs, so a hot tub will hit the spot just right. Whether you hire one or already own one, a hot tub can provide an escape that feels as close to getting away from it all as actually getting away from it all! An inflatable spa pool makes a great short-term alternative for those seeking to destress. Once soothed, you simply pack it away until its needed.

Sign: Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Staycation: Tiki Bar in the Garden
Known for chasing after geographical, intellectual, and spiritual adventures, Sagittariuses LOVE to travel. Bring sun-kissed shores to your garden by building a tiki bar, a great idea if you are craving a holiday without the added cost of a plane ticket! You can buy ready-made sets on sale or craft your own by upcycling bamboo canes and straw fringing. Next, all you need is large-leaf prints, Caribbean rum and some fresh garnishes.

Sign: Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Staycation: Host a Virtual Cook-Off
Caps are well-balanced individuals that love nothing more than family and tradition. A home orientated activity like a cook-off suits this sign down to the ground, even if it’s hosted over Zoom. After all, Capricorns are disciplined and have amazing self-control, which makes them highly competitive (this sign is known for being the best in the workplace) so they would be hard to beat! Invite a few friends to participate and try new recipes. If you’re feeling really creative, you could even try a multi-course affair.

Sign: Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Staycation: Yoga or Meditation Retreat
Aquarius is the sign of spirituality. Those under this sign are deep thinkers and love their time alone. A fitting activity involves recreating a yoga or meditation retreat from the comfort of your own home. To “be at one” all you need is ice water infused with citrus for nourishment, a yoga mat and an easy-to-follow tutorial. This humanitarian sign is, after all, thought to be representative of a mystical healer who bestows water, or life, upon the land. Warning: if you are new to yoga, start simple and avoid any complicated moves (think “Scorpion”!)

Sign: Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Staycation: Boat Trip
Pisces is a water sign that reflects constant division between fantasy and reality. To be frank, this sensational sign needs a decadent day at sea. A dreamy boat trip across gentle waves, with a glass of fizz in hand, is an ideal activity for this sign. Think a yacht in the south of France but dial it back to suit your nearest stretch of water! If you don’t yet feel safe venturing outside, try creating a nautical theme at home by giving your walls a coat of fresh white paint, soft touches of blue and driftwood accessories :).
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The Monday Piece - National Picnic Week With Hankies

This week's Monday Piece is on national picnic week with Hankies! Shake down those blankets - 22nd-28th June is National Picnic Week! But this year you can bin the soggy sandwiches and limp salad leaves and take your pick instead from one of Hankies’ new trio of picnic hampers. First up is the Regency, inspired by Chef Ani Arora’s beloved Hankies concept which has elevated Indian street food to fine dining status. Featuring such delights as bhindi bhel (crispy okra, rice puff, sweet chutney, onions & fresh coriander); chicken tikka finger sandwiches; wrap with paneer basil, grilled onions, peppers & corn and a selection of mini pastries and cakes, this really is something a little bit different. Those looking for something a little more traditional will find it in the Regal, a classic British medley of butternut squash, goat’s cheese & beetroot salad; sandwiches filled with the likes of roast beef & caramelised onions and smoked salmon with cream cheese; chargrilled chicken, rosemary & garlic baguette and a variety of desserts, including that iconic summer favourite, Eton Mess. Both the above are available in two brilliantly priced versions: Light Bite (£12.50) for one person and Luxury (£40.00) which is an extended menu for two.

Last but by no means least the Royal Tea, priced at £35.00 for a two-person serving, allows you to enjoy that perennially popular tradition, al fresco style. Available for home delivery or collection from Hankies Westbourne Terrace (just a short stroll from Hyde Park), all hampers include Lipton’s peach ice tea and mineral water. A range of prosecco, wines and cocktails can also be requested for an additional cost. Beautifully prepared in disposable cardboard boxes, orders should be placed 24 hours in advance and can be made by calling 07405885673, emailing orders@hankies.london :).
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The Monday Poece - Fodele Beach and Water Resort

This week's Monday Piece is on Fodele Beach and Water resort!

Hope is approaching. Around the world lockdown measures are slowly being relaxed and dreams of summer have started to attach themselves to buoyant minds. But with the prospect of a holiday still trapped in the imagination, and with the heat filtering into daily life, you may want to soak up the sun and get as close as possible to an idyllic destination while staying at home. Many are escaping through the internet, taking virtual tours of museums and landmarks and natural wonders.

If you’re looking for an online excursion to a beautiful family retreat, Fodele Beach & Water Park Resort has several YouTube videos which will transport you to its cliffside location on the glittering Cretan coast. The ‘Aerial Teaser’ will introduce you to Fodele’s clear waters and captivating complex - feel completely relaxed at the thought of being whisked away with your family to this paradisal landscape, resting on a sun lounger, golden sand between your toes, cocktail in hand, and memories of lockdown behind you.

Let us give you a glimpse of the exciting adventures you’ll soon be able to enjoy at the hotel once travelling is permitted again. As you’ll see in the ‘Pool Fun’ video, Fodele has an exhilarating waterpark: in fact, one of the largest waterparks in Greece. Packed with several swimming pools and nine heart-racing yet child-friendly waterslides, ranging from a body slide, which both a parent and child can ride together, to freefall slides to winding rafting slides, which you and your family can race down together in swimming rings, to the psychedelic black hole slide, which makes you feel like you’re flying through space and brushing the majesty of distant stars.

In addition to Fodele’s energetic dreamscape presented by the waterpark video, you can digitally witness both the sporting amenities and the night scene at Fodele to round-off a whole day of leisure at the hotel. As you’ll see, an exceptional range of sports facilities await you and your family at Fodele, including basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, an archery range, as well as beach football pitches, a mini-golf course, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. While you’ll also get a taste of Fodele’s unique animation, acrobatic and live Cretan music shows that brighten every night with glittering entertainment.

However, your virtual trip does not end there. The ‘Chef by the Sea’ video shows off just how fresh the food is at Fodele. The fish served at Fodele goes on your plate the very same day it comes off the fishing boat. It will make you salivate for this quality of seafood product that is only available on a coastline like the one Fodele calls home. And, better still, at Fodele you’ll be able to enjoy your fresh fish on a spectacular outdoor terrace overlooking the majestic Cretan sea, imbibing the atmosphere while losing yourself in the flavours on your plate.

Before long you will be able to journey to Fodele’s sublime cliffside and indulge in these magical experiences in person. But, in the meantime, watch these videos to see just how wondrous a family holiday awaits you at Fodele and how a blend of relaxation, adventure and delicious fresh food will be the perfect way to treat your family after the lockdown is lifted.
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The Monday Piece - Post Lockdown Toulouse Trip

This week's Monday Piece is post lockdown Toulouse trip! Nicknamed ‘the pink city’ for its jumble of coral roofs and shopfronts, Toulouse provides a romantic backdrop for couples on a getaway to reignite their relationship. With the local accent consistently voted the sexiest accent in France, it gives Paris a run for its money for being the city of love. What better place to plan a visit with restaurants now reopen with extended terraces and shops set to welcome visitors again from 8th June, in time for France to begin talks to lift border restrictions from June 15th.

Brimming with numerous gourmet, yet affordable restaurants and offering a whole host of cultural attractions, Toulouse offers an endless list of fun, dynamic dates options. Couples in search for some relaxed quality time together will also enjoy strolling hand in hand along the medieval streets in the old neighbourhood towards the romantic views of the river Garonne while watching the sunset. The Taste of Toulouse tour offers guided tours of the impressive Victor Hugo covered market in the heart of the city and teaches English-speaking tourists about the local products on offer. Couples can tuck into baked goods, pastries, charcuterie, cheeses and sweet treats on their way around while Jessica the guide teaches them about the food and top tips on how to buy it. They won’t have to worry about sharing! Couples can enjoy a relaxing cycle through the city and along the Canal du Midi’s towpaths with VélÔ Toulouse, a self-service bike scheme. Enjoy a romantic dinner at Une Table à Deux, opened in 2018 and located in the Des Carmes district, the delicate cuisines are made fresh from local products and are served in a charming setting decorated with wooden furniture and brick walls.

Where to stay: Toulouse’s quirky cinema hotel

Reopening week of 8th June, you will find the hotel tucked behind the facade of an old movie palace on Boulevard Lazare Carnot you'll find Mama Shelter Toulouse. After a day of walking and exploring, couples can sit back and cosy up with a glass of red while watching a romantic movie in the 46-seat cinema, the CineMama :).

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The Monday Piece - Lipstick for Your Zodiac

This week's Monday Piece is on lipstick for your zodiac! Lipstick is a wonderful thing. Sure, the rigmarole of applying and reapplying can be a slog. The dread of a smear or clump might haunt you. In fact, finding the right shade is a laborious chore in itself. BUT, all that aside, lipstick has the power to instantly make your day better.
To ease the process, and have a little fun, OnBuy.com has matched a lipstick shade to the personality traits of each zodiac sign. Afterall, once lockdown ends and we are thrust back into civilisation, we want to look our best right?

Sign: Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Lipstick Shade: Red
Could it be anything else? Bold and ambitious rams love to be number one, which is why Red lipstick is a great fit. A classic that will never fade from fashion, red lipstick represents the passionate Aries personality perfectly. Ruby Woo by MAC is the perfect example. The bright cherry looks good on anyone, thanks to its blue undertones.

Sign: Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Lipstick Shade: Taupe
Bulls enjoy serene, rustic environments – so why not choose a Taupe lipstick to match? Neutral, but with a warm and earthy tint, something like Very Victoria by Charlotte Tilbury (a “suede taupe nude”) will work wonders. Plus, this Tilbury stick contains ingredients to protect, soften and hydrate, perfect for the soothing nature of a Taurus.

Sign: Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Lipstick Shade: Glossy Peach
Gemini is a busy sign that some say needs a clone of itself in order to get everything done. To mirror the duel nature of Gemini – go Glossy Peach! NARS Cosmetics Lip Gloss in Outrage (“light peach”) is fitting. An ethereal shade, with just the right amount of shine.

Sign: Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Lipstick Shade: Powder Pink
Those under the Cancer sign are sensitive and effortlessly pick up on energy. To compliment this, stick to a Powder Pink palette. Something like MAC’s Powder Kiss Lipstick in Sexy, But Sweet is neutral but with a pop of colour. This will make sure Cancerians blend in with their environment but don’t go unnoticed.

Sign: Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Lipstick Shade: Gold
This shade isn’t for the fearful. Luckily, Leo is a fearless fire sign known to bask in the spotlight – and what better way to shine than with glittering Gold lips? Pat McGrath’s BlitzTrance Lipstick in Blitz Gold will prove a Leo’s pout is the life of the party.

Sign: Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Lipstick Shade: Rosewood
The dark orange-brown-red hues of Rosewood perfectly suit the “Goddess of Wheat” earth sign. A product like the Clove Matte Lip Kit by Kylie Cosmetics will pop when paired with a Virgo pout.

Sign: Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Lipstick Shade: Soft Coral
A sweet and harmonious Libra needs a Soft Coral sheen. A look complete with Coral Intuitive, a Rouge Volupte Shine by Yves Saint Laurent, will soothe the complexion and have admirers melting at first glance.

Sign: Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Lipstick Shade: Deep Purple
Scorpios need a shade that’s “dark and twisty” (to quote Christina Yang in Grey’s Anatomy) because they are intensely passionate. Think a vampy, edgy Deep Purple like Purple Temptation by Lancôme. A formidable asset to any Scorpio’s makeup bag.

Sign: Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Lipstick Shade: Plum
Similarly, those under the Sagittarius sign are suited to Plum shades – but for an altogether different reason. Known for chasing after geographical, intellectual, and spiritual adventures, Sagittariuses will benefit from a lipstick like Bohemian Plum by Terry Terrybly. Afterall, purple is a prime colour of the Archer, known to enlighten and embolden the spirit.

Sign: Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Lipstick Shade: Matte Brown
Caps are well-balanced individuals, skilled at navigating both the material and emotional realms, that lean toward classic looks. An earthy Matte Brown found in products like Oblivion (Mega Matte) by Urban Decay will blend well with this sign.

Sign: Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Lipstick Shade: Pale Blue
OK, Pale Blue might not be for everyone – but for an Aquarius, an unconventional iridescent hue suits perfectly. This humanitarian sign is, after all, thought to be representative of a mystical healer who bestows water, or life, upon the land. A cosmic spirit like Aquarius should try Grand Illusion Glossy Liquid Lipcolour by MAC, in Lunar Module.

Sign: Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Lipstick Shade: Bubblegum Pink
Pisces is a water sign that reflects constant division between fantasy and reality. To be frank, they need a lipstick shade as sensational as they are! Bubblegum Pink is perfect. Choose Be Legendary Lipstick by Smashbox in Bubblegum Pink for a daring pop of colour :). Will you try the zodiac lip trend?
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