For two hundred years, curry restaurants have existed in the UK and this week you can celebrate our 'national dish' by visiting one of the many restaurants participating in National Curry Week.

Top curry searches:

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5. Jalfrezi chicken recipe
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10. Curry types

When you visit one of these restaurants (a full list of them can be found on the National Curry Week website), part of your bill will be contributed to the Curry Tree charity which aims to help impoverished and starving people in the third world.

At a National Curry Week restaurant, as well as giving to charity and eating a delicious curry, you might also witness a world record being broken. The Great Poppadom Tower Challenge is readily taken up by curry lovers for National Curry Week and so far the record stands at 1.48m high! Think you can beat it? Another challenge which was regularly particpated in was Can You Handle The Heat? in which restaurants would produce incredibly hot curries using very strong chillies. This competition had to be cancelled since the extra hot chillies could be potentially dangerous! There is also the samosa speed challenge in which restaurants have to see how many samosas they can prepare within 10 minutes.

If you can't make it to a restaurant, you can still celebrate your love of curry at home by cooking up a delicious korma or madras, masala or biryani. Check out AOL recipes for some exciting ideas to try.

For some people, their love of curry causes them to wax lyrical - literally. You'll find these poems about curry posted on the National Curry Week website. And if you too are feeling prosaic, why not send in your own curry poem - or better yet, post it here!

Do you love curry? Got any amazing recipes to share? Leave a comment and help us celebrate curry week.

Book a spa day – High on many a woman's list would be a day at the spa – manicure, pedicure, massage or facial – make it a date and come out feeling refreshed and ready to go.

Soak it up – It's amazing what a hot bath can do. Just light the candles, crack open a bottle of Shiraz, put on your favourite music and relax (cucumber slices and mud pack optional!).

Breakfast in bed – Eating in bed always feels remarkably decadent. If you can persuade your partner to do all the hard work, you'll get a wonderfully lazy hour to catch up on the day's news and enjoy a cuppa under the covers.

Peace and quiet – It's rare these days for any of us to enjoy doing nothing. But if you get five minutes to yourself, switch off the TV, close your eyes and forget the shopping list. Nothing can be surprisingly restorative.

Lunch with pals – If you're more likely to grab a sandwich and eat at work then a long lunch with pals is a simple way to indulge. Forget the time (when able) and put the world to rights – you'll be smiling in no time.

'Me time' – All too often, we're so busy dealing with the day-to-day chores that we forget the things we used to love. Revive an old interest, take time for something you miss or even take up a new hobby.

Spoil yourself – Splash out on an outfit or gadget that you've been after for a while. You don't have to go mad to enjoy a spot of retail therapy.

Dinner and a show – The perfect way to indulge yourself as a couple. Take a trip to the bright lights of the big city and treat yourself to a slap-up meal before taking in a show or a movie. For extra indulgence, book a hotel room for the night.

Go Nigella – Ditch the diet (just for a moment) and whip up something truly indulgent to eat. Cream, chocolate, wine... take a leaf out of Nigella Lawson's book and make food fun again.

Siesta – The Spanish have it down to a fine art, but we Brits rarely take an afternoon nap. Catch up on your sleep and you might just wake up feeling like a new person.

What are your tips for a little self indulgence?

These days the sales aren't just about the Boxing Day rush. And with retailers probably feeling the pinch as much as the rest of us, the chances are there are bargains to be had even before Christmas. But sale shopping can be a tricky business and it's important to make sure you know what you're doing if you're going to bag a real bargain.

Top sales and bargains searches:

1. Half price sales
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4. Online clothes shopping
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7. Cheap brand name clothing
8. Fashion designer clothes
9. Discount cosmetics
10. Buy designer suits

If you know there's a sale coming up in one of your favourite shopping haunts, try and get in before it starts. Check out exactly what you want to grab in the sale and try each item on – that way you'll save valuable time by knowing what size you need when the rush begins.

For serious fashionistas, looking up next season's must-haves is a cunning way to ensure you're bang on trend, so check out designer shows in the likes of Vogue. But if there's a classic design that you've been after for a while you may find it's on sale – sometimes a timeless classic can be snapped up for a bargain price.

Go for non-seasonal buys. If you're in desperate need of some gorgeous underwear or some sexy nightwear, there are plenty of fabulous buys to be had that won't be out of fashion by January! Similarly, accessories such as gloves, boots and bags are often discounted, but be sure you avoid last season's 'in' look.

You might even find some summer pieces that the stores are dragging out in a last ditch attempt to sell them. Silly as it sounds in the middle of winter, neutral items can be layered throughout the season, and colourful summer jewellery can be bought for a snip.

But most importantly girls... set yourself a limit. It's all too easy to get carried away and then all of a sudden, the bargains turn into burdens.

If you've got any tips for grabbing the best of the sale bargains, why not let us know.

This year November 21 is World Hello Day and a chance for all to communicate peacefully with anyone and everyone. All it takes to participate in this annual event is a simple greeting to ten (or more) people. The idea is to demonstrate the importance of personal communication for preserving peace.

Top Hello Day searches:

1. Hello in different languages
2. Archbishop Desmond Tutu
3. Chinese hello
4. Hello in Japanese
5. Kofi Annan
6. Mother Theresa
7. Polish hello
8. Russian hello
9. His Holiness the Dalai Lama
10. Hello in Dutch

Launched in 1973, World Hello Day came as a response to the conflict between Egypt and Israel and since then, has been observed by people in 180 countries. Brian and Michael McCormack work together to promote the event, which is an opportunity for people around the world to express their concern for world peace.

It is hoped that the actions of many will send a message to world leaders and encourage the use of communication rather than force to settle conflict. So far 31 Nobel Peace Prize winners have already recognised World Hello Day as a valuable instrument for preserving peace and the likes of Kofi Annan, Mother Teresa and the Dalai Lama (not to mention our very own monarch, Queen Elizabeth II) are among the many to have written letters in support of the event.

And why stop at your native language. World Hello Day is a global event and as such, an 'hola', 'dobry den', or 'nei ho' will certainly not go amiss.

As Ronald Reagan wrote in his letter: "Peace begins in the human heart when selfishness and fear are replaced by charity and hope. In reaching out to others in friendship, you spread the spirit that is the foundation for peace within the home, the community, the nation and the world." Now that can surely only be a good thing.

Let us know what you think. Is World Hello Day a valuable instrument for expressing the need for peace throughout the world?

Yes, it's that time of year again... Pudsey Bear is back to help raise money for Children in Need's 2009 campaign. This year, the live show will take place on Friday 20 November and there will be the usual fun and games courtesy of Terry Wogan and friends along with the serious message behind the appeal.

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2. Pudsey bear
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10. Raise charity money

Last year, BBC Children in Need raised over £38 million to provide support to thousands of children and young people under the age of 18. Those with mental, physical or sensory disabilities, behavioural or psychological disorders, those who are suffering through distress, abuse or neglect and the many children living in poverty will all benefit from the pennies we donate and the live BBC show is essential in raising our awareness to the plight of the many disadvantaged children in the country.

But there are many ways to get involved in the charity; by organising your own events, gaining sponsorship or by simply donating to the cause. Fundraising packs with ideas and toolkits are available via the Children in Need website, as are ideas for activities and games for schools and, of course, plenty of Pudsey related goodies.

Of course, the celebrities will be out in force to show their support and no doubt the stars of a variety of BBC shows will be planning their own surprises. So whether you're at work or on a night out, at home or at school, Do Something Different as Pudsey suggests and help to make life just a little easier for the less fortunate children in the UK.

Have you got something special planned for Children in Need? If so, let us know.

Though most parents would consider their child's welfare a priority it seems children in England are all too often getting caught up in bitter legal actions by their divorcing parents. A new survey, carried out by law firm Mishcon de Reya, questioned 2,000 divorcees and a similar number of children who had experienced the break-up of the family home. Despite their best efforts, half of the parents surveyed admitted going to court over access or custody, while one in five wanted to damage their ex.

Top break-up searches:

1. Divorce and child custody
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6. Marriage separation
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8. Marriage counselling uk
9. Child support divorce
10. Family counselling

The poll marks the 20th anniversary of the Children Act, designed to improve the welfare of children caught up in parental separation. But Mischon de Reya's report painted an unhappy picture. The results showed that two thirds confessed to indiscriminately using their children as "bargaining tools", while 20% admitted that they had actively designed the proceedings to make their partners experience "as unpleasant as possible", with little regard for their children's feelings.

Of the children surveyed, half said that their opinions had been disregarded by both parents and almost a quarter revealed that one parent had forced them to lie to the other. But the government insists that the 20-year scope of the survey meant that it was out of date.

England's Children's Minister Delyth Morgan told the BBC: "Divorce and separation can have a devastating impact on children caught in the middle. But this survey, looking as far back as 20 years ago, simply doesn't reflect what support is available for families now."

There are ways to make divorce less traumatic for your children. As hard as it may seem, avoid criticising your ex in front of the kids, while explaining the situation and what is going to happen may encourage children to be open about their own feelings – and, of course, taking the time to listen to their views is essential.

Do you have any suggestions on how to help children cope with a family break-up?

Charities have warned that young Britons are putting themselves at risk of future health problems as a new poll reveals the extent of our junk food addiction. The survey found that the average British under-18 eats three or more ready meals or takeaways each week, with one in six admitting that they indulged every day.

Top diet and health searches:

1. Salt and blood pressure
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10. Healthy snacks

While the Food Standards Agency recommends just 6g (one teaspoon) of salt per day for adults, ready meals and takeaways are often high in salt and could lead to serious health problems, including stroke, if consumed too regularly.

The poll of 3,000 people also revealed that half of Britons eat too much salt, with 78 per cent confessing to adding extra during or after cooking. Of those surveyed, 85 per cent admitted that they do not take the recommended half an hour, five times a week exercise. The combination of too much salt and a lack of exercise can quickly lead to high blood pressure, the biggest single factor in increasing the risk of a stroke.

Wendy Martinson, nutritionist to the Great Britain rowing team, told the Telegraph: "A combination of poor dietary choices and habits, along with lack of regular exercise, could result in serious future health problems. The risk of stroke is patently real and these warnings need to be acknowledged."

Currently more than 150,000 people in Britain a year suffer a stroke, yet almost two thirds of those polled insisted they were unconcerned about their salt intake. Joe Korner, from the Stroke Association, said: "Regular exercise and lifestyle choices can help prevent a stroke – clearly a message Britain still needs to hear."

Let us know what you think can be done to put a stop to Britain's unhealthy eating habits.

Summer is officially over folks, and the State Opening of Parliament marks the beginning of the 2009-10 session. This year the State Opening takes place on Wednesday 18 November and, as always, there will be much pomp and circumstance. The lavish ceremony will first see the cellars of the Palace of Westminster searched by the Yeomen of the Guard – a reminder of the possibility of a modern-day Gunpowder Plot. And the historical traditions are key to the entire ceremony.

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The Queen, having arrived by horse-drawn coach, enters through the Sovereign's Entrance. The Royal Standard replaces the Union Flag, all the while she is in attendance, and the Queen then takes on the Robes of State and the Imperial State Crown before proceeding to the House of Lords.

As the Lord Great Chamberlain raises his wand of office, Black Rod is escorted by the doorkeeper of the House of Lords and an inspector of police (ordering "Hats off, Strangers!" to all he passes) to the chamber of the Commons.

At this point, the doors are slammed in his face, symbolising the independence of the Commons. He then strikes the door three times with his staff (hence the name Black Rod) and is admitted. Black Rod bows to the speaker before commanding all to attend.

Members of the House of Commons walk in pairs towards the House of Lords, arriving at the Bar where they remain for the Queen's Speech from the Throne, which lists the main bills to be introduced during the session. The Commons then bow again and return to their Chamber, where the cabinet is sworn in and the Speaker of the House elected.

Pomp and circumstance there may be, but the rituals and symbolism represents the unity of the government as well as the important separation of powers. Do you feel that the ceremony still has its place today or should the tradition be dispensed with to make more time for the government to get on with their work? Leave a comment and share your thoughts.

No matter how many guidelines and diet warnings we receive, it seems Britons are still not getting the message when it comes to healthy lifestyles. According to figures released today, almost 80,000 cases of cancer could be prevented every year in the UK if people ate healthily and exercised regularly.

Top health and cancer searches:

1. Diet and cancer
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4. Exercise
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8. Bowel cancer information
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10. Breast cancer types

The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) found 78,700 cancer cases might not have occurred with a healthier lifestyle. Included in the figures for 12 common cancers were an estimated 19,100 cases of breast cancer and 16,100 cases of bowel cancer.

Professor Martin Wiseman, medical and scientific adviser for the WCRF, said: "These estimates set out in stark terms just how high the stakes are and show what could be achieved through making relatively simple lifestyle changes. Many people still think of cancer as a question of fate but this emphasises that people can significantly reduce their risk by eating healthily, being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight. When you consider that these estimates do not include the cancers that would be prevented through not smoking, it is clear that cancer is actually a largely preventable disease."

The research revealed that only 60% of Britons are aware of the link between diet and cancer, only 59% know of the link with excess body fat and just 45% realise the benefit of exercise when comes to reducing the risk.

Professor Wiseman added: "Having a healthy lifestyle is by no means a guarantee against cancer. But if everyone followed our recommendations, it would mean that tens of thousands of cases in the UK would be prevented every year. But despite the strong scientific evidence on this, many people are still not aware of how they can reduce their risk."

The World Cancer Research Fund recommends 30 minutes exercise each day, that people should be as lean as possible without becoming underweight and to avoid sugary drinks, processed foods and limit red meat consumption.

Let us know what you think. Does more need to be done to get the healthy lifestyle message across?

Cyber-bullying has now become the joint most common form according to the latest Government-commissioned research. The National Centre for Social Research analysed bullying among more than 10,000 secondary school pupils in England between the ages of 14 and 16 and found that 47 per cent of 14-year-olds have been a victim. This figure falls to 41 per cent amongst 15-year-olds and 29 per cent for 16-year-olds.

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But the internet has become the medium of choice for bullies, along with the use of mobile phones to taunt children with threats of violence. Girls were more likely to be bullied than boys but name-calling and exclusion from their friends were more common, where boys were more likely to fall victim to theft and violence.

The study also revealed the effect that bullying can have in the long-term. Those bullied at the age of 14 and 15 scored significantly lower in their Key Stage 4 (GSCE level) exams and victims of bullying were also more likely to be what is called a "Neet" – meaning not in education, employment or training."

Published to mark the launch of anti-bullying week, the report concluded that in those cases where parents had reported the abuse, the child was less likely to face bullying in the future.

Schools Secretary Ed Balls, said of cyber-bullying: "It's really important that young people can use new technology and the internet to learn, have fun and stay in touch with their friends. But we also know that mobile phones or computer screens can be used to taunt and bully young people, which can have devastating consequences. I want parents to feel confident coming forward and reporting bullying incidents to school, as we know this helps to stop bullying continuing."

Do you have a child who has been a victim of bullying and what do you think is the best way to tackle the problem?

The clocks have only just gone back and many of us will already be dreaming of our next holiday abroad. But why wait until summer? A holiday can provide a much-needed respite from the winter blues and whether it's snow or sand you're after, a break could just help you through the long winter months.

Top holiday searches:

1. Lapland
2. Canada
3. Cheap winter holidays in the sun
4. Europe
5. Goa
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7. Gran Canaria
8. Morocco
9. Cyprus
10. Tenerife

From the Swiss Alps to the Canadian Rockies, a trip to the slopes teams good old-fashioned fresh air and exercise, with the essential warmth and restoration of après-ski. While celebrity-packed Aspen might prove beyond the means of many, the Canadian Rockies offer the same great slopes without the price. But if you're after slightly warmer climes, try St. Moritz in Switzerland, which boasts 300 days of sunshine each year.

If you've got the kids in tow, indulge their (and possibly your own) Christmas fantasy with a trip to Lapland. It's a veritable fairytale winter landscape and the husky safaris and snowmobile touring will keep the adults happy while the kids enjoy the ultimate Santa's grotto.

But if it's the Christmas shopping that is getting you down, how about a winter city break. Many European cities will be hosting gorgeous Christmas markets and are perfect for that hard to find or simply irresistible gift, so head to Prague or Bruges for a trip that's closer to home.

And if you're desperate to try and avoid the cold altogether, a spot of winter sun is the answer. For the ultimate way to forget about the British winter weather, fly out to the island paradise of the Maldives. The white sand, clear blue water and hotel rooms on stilts will have you forgetting the long dark evenings quicker than you can say Seasonal Affective Disorder.

If you've already experienced the perfect winter getaway, why not share it with us?

It's not to everyone's taste, DIY but, love it or hate it, sooner or later the chances are you'll have to get involved. But whether you just brightening up your home with some decorating or going all out with a renovation, there power tools that can make it all a whole lot easier.

Top power tool searches:

1. Cordless drills
2. DIY equipment
3. Black & Decker tools
4. Panasonic power tools
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9. Cordless tools
10. Power tool rental

No home should be without a cordless power drill. Lightweight and with no cord to get tangled up in, this versatile tool will put holes into wood, metal and concrete and most will also double as an electric screwdriver making light work of a whole host of household DIY chores.

Decorating might seem like a relatively easy job, but if your woodwork is rougher than a trawlerman's hands then you might want a little electrical assistance.

Enter the palm sander. This handy little tool uses normal sheets of sandpaper which it vibrates in a slightly circular motion, leaving wood fabulously smooth. Go for one with a collection bag for the dust.

If you're getting all creative with your woodworking skills or even just need a hole for your sink, then the jigsaw is the tool for you. This handheld tool that can cut accurate (with a spot of practise) curved lines is an essential for DIY enthusiasts.

At some point in your DIY adventures, you will arrive at the bathroom or kitchen. And if that's where you're headed, make sure you invest in a tile cutter. From ceramic to slate, a decent one will allow you to get perfectly straight cuts without wasting your expensive tiles.

And last but not least, the plane. If you've ever had to hang a door, then you'll know just how invaluable the plane really is. It'll shave just the right amount off the bottom to prevent that irritating carpet drag effect (and other useful stuff too).

So there you have it. Once you've invested in these essential power tools, you'll wonder what you ever did without them.

November 14 is World Diabetes Day and the theme for this year's campaign is Education and Prevention. Around 250 million people across the world are currently living with the disease and, with the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimating that over 300 million are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, education is vital, both for those already coping with the demands it imposes and for those at risk.

Top diabetes related searches:

1. Type two diabetes
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This potentially debilitating and sometimes fatal disease occurs as a result of problems with the production and supply of insulin in the body.

The hormone insulin helps glucose to leave the blood and enter the body's cells to be used as 'fuel'.

Type 1 diabetes is caused by an auto-immune reaction where the body's defence system attacks the insulin-producing cells. The symptoms of type 1 can be sudden and dramatic and include an unusual thirst, extreme tiredness and sudden weight loss.

This variant of the disease requires regular access to insulin.

Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is much harder to detect. The onset can be very gradual and sufferers are often diagnosed several years after the disease has taken hold, leading to a higher risk of complications.

Those with type 2 are often able to control the disease by watching their diet, taking regular exercise, oral medication and possibly insulin.

It is most common in those over 45 who are overweight, but an increase in obesity amongst the younger generation means that type 2 diabetes is becoming more common in children and young adults.

Diabetes Education and Prevention is a five-year campaign which will aim to inform the general public about how to avoid or delay diabetes, encourage empowerment through education for those people with the disease and ensure that governments around the world set up strategies and policies for the prevention and management of diabetes.

Charity events such as walks, runs and cycle races will be taking place throughout the world, along with public information meetings, free educational screenings and radio and television coverage.

Each of these aims to raise awareness of the disease which, particularly in developing countries where medical advice and assistance can be scarce, is essential in terms of educating sufferers and non-sufferers alike.

As the campaign slogan says: "Understand Diabetes and Take Control". Check out the World Diabetes Day website for information on the campaign and the events and activities taking place.

As the long winter evenings draw in no doubt the chillier weather will soon have us turning to the boiler for comfort. But with the credit crunch continuing to bite, it might pay to consider your options when it comes to saving energy. So we've come up with a few pointers on where and how to save money by insulating your home.

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10. Hot water heating system

Around a third of all the heat lost in the home is through un-insulated walls. If your home has cavity walls then filling the gaps can insulate your home and, according to the Energy Saving Trust, save you around £115 a year on your fuel bills. For solid walls, try insulating under floorboards and sealing any chilly gaps and cracks around skirting boards yourself.

Similarly, loft insulation will keep the cold out and the warmth in. Even if your loft is already insulated, it might just pay to top up what's already there. Loft insulation is effective for at least 40 years, so the yearly savings will soon pay for the installation.

Check your pipe and water tank insulation. Fitting a new 75mm hot water cylinder jacket will save you more than double what it costs, while insulating hot water pipes will cost around £10... a seriously cost effective way to cut heat loss by a whopping 75%.

On the costlier side, double glazing will create an insulating barrier where it is much needed. When shopping around, look for the Energy Saving Recommended logo to ensure the best energy efficiency. For those on a budget, secondary glazing can prove a less expensive option. You'll enjoy not only reduced heat loss, but also a quieter evening in.

The best news if you're looking to insulate your home is that government grants are available so make sure you check what you're entitled to... you could ultimately save yourself a bundle.

November 13 sees the opening of this year's Classic Motor Show and people will descend in their tens of thousands upon the NEC in Birmingham to share their passion for cars. Celebrating the veteran and the vintage, not to mention a few future classics, the show represents the culmination of this year's classic car scene.

Top classic car searches:

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4. Bugatti Veyron model
5. Daimler cars
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9. Buy a classic car
10. Bentley prices

A huge and diverse range of 1000 cars will be on display, from the rare to the frankly bizarre, and the show boasts the largest single gathering of UK traders selling just about any car product or service you care to imagine.

But it's not just for those with deep pockets. As well as browsing the astonishing selection of cars on sale through car dealerships, visitors can enjoy practical demonstrations and advice, seminars and, of course, celebrities. This year also includes the chance to take 10 mile rides in some dream cars.

If it's automotive exotica that sets your pulse racing, then you certainly won't be disappointed. From stately Rolls-Royces to generations of Bugattis, the finest in luxury, jet-set chic and performance are sure to be the star attractions. An array of Maseratis and Porsches will also be on display, along with Steve McQueen's original Ferrari Lusso.

Classics of the two-wheeled variety will also be on show at the dedicated Bike Hall which, though only in its second year, is bigger and better. And, as if you needed any further persuasion, Mike Brewer and Ed China will be restoring and giving away a classic live at the show, so you never what you might come away with.

The Classic Motor Show opens at the NEC on Friday November 13 and runs until Sunday 15.