AOL Hot Searches http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk AOL Hot Searches - A DESCRIPTION OF THIS BLOG. http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/hotsearch.aol.co.uk/media/feedlogo.gif AOL Hot Searches http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk prods@weblogsinc.com (Weblogs, Inc. Producers) support@weblogsinc.com (Weblogs, Inc. Web Support) en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. View our terms of service here: http://www.weblogsinc.com/feed-terms/ Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ <![CDATA[Training for a triathlon]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/16/training-for-a-triathlon/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/16/training-for-a-triathlon/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/16/training-for-a-triathlon/#comments
training for a triathlon

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Consisting of swimming, cycling and running, the training will improve cardio-vascular fitness, muscle strength and endurance and completing such a challenge, no matter how fast or slow, will leave you with a fantastic sense of achievement. If you're new to the sport here's what you need to know to get started.

What does a triathlon consist of?
There are three types of triathlon ranging from the shorter spring variety to the hardcore Iron Man.

A sprint triathlon includes a 750m swim, 22km cycle and 5km run. The Olympic version consists of a 1500 m swim, 40km cycle and 10km run, while the challenging Iron Man extends those distances to a 2.4-mile swim and a 112-mile cycle, followed by a 26.2-mile marathon. In many cases, the swim section of the event will take place in the sea, though some require contestants to use a pool.

Competitors often call the transition between each stage, the time it takes to prepare for the next event, the 'fourth discipline' as a quick change can shave minutes off your overall time.

Where do I start?
How you start training depends largely on your current level of fitness. Whether you want to get seriously competitive or are just determined to complete, a local triathlon club will be happy to impart their invaluable knowledge and offer helpful tips.

If you plan on training alone, however, don't rush headlong into 5km runs - endurance is the key to triathlon success and as such requires a steady build-up of fitness. As your general fitness and endurance improves, you can gradually increase your speed before simulating the three-phase experience over shorter distances.

Since the swim is the only section where technique is more important than fitness, it's a good idea to go to your local pool and ask about a few lessons to help you with technique. Since you'll need all your leg strength for the cycle stage that follows, front crawl is the best stroke for this first section as it uses mostly upper body strength. If the event you have entered requires a sea-swim, it's important to train a couple of times in the sea to enable you to get used to swimming with a wetsuit on, as they are required by many event organisers.

Once you've established some swimming technique and assessed your fitness level, it's time to make a training plan. The bike ride in a standard, Olympic triathlon is usually the longest section and therefore, plenty of cycle training is advised. Though you don't need to spend thousands on a new bike, it's worth getting a service done to ensure that everything is in good working order. Proper safety equipment is a must so do invest in a helmet.

Also make sure the saddle height is correct (put your heel on the pedal at its lowest point - your leg should be straight) and spend time learning how to use the gears. Staying in a lighter gear can seriously reduce your race time so use heavier gears only when necessary. If you're not a regular cyclist, it will take time to build up the strength and fitness required so gradually increase your rides as your fitness improves. A spinning class can work wonders if your muscles need an extra boost.

As the final section of the triathlon, the run presents its own challenges - if you haven't paced yourself in the first two legs, you could find yourself struggling. As with the cycling, endurance is the key and a slow build-up in terms of distance while you're training is essential. Don't be tempted to push yourself speed-wise, a steady pace is the best way.

It's also essential to practise the cycle-to-run transition. Most competitors will experience what's known as 'jelly legs' as they get off the bike so a short run after a cycling practise session will allow you to get used to this strange sensation.

Beginners training for their first triathlon should be aware of the particular challenges their race presents. Knowing whether the landscape is hilly or the race involved an open water swim will enable you to tailor your training to fit the race.

Above all, set yourself a realistic goal. Push yourself too hard and too fast and you risk injury. Completing such a test of stamina, technique and speed alone will give you an enormous sense of achievement, and there's always the opportunity to improve your time once you've been bitten by the bug!

Have you risen to the triathlon challenge? What are your tips for success? Leave your comments below...

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Training for a triathlon originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Wed, 16 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> cycle trainingCycleTrainingendurance trainingEnduranceTrainingiron man triathlonIronManTriathlonrunningsprint triathlonSprintTriathlonswimming techniqueSwimmingTechniquetraining for a triathlonTrainingForATriathlontriathlontriathlon events uktriathlon trainingTriathlonEventsUkTriathlonTraining SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Wed, 16 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Lloyds bows to pressure over 'cancelled' pet insurance policies]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/16/lloyds-cancelled-pet-insurance-policies/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/16/lloyds-cancelled-pet-insurance-policies/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/16/lloyds-cancelled-pet-insurance-policies/#comments
Lloyds reinstates cancelled pet insurance policies

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  10. Pet products


The bank suddenly withdrew cover for pet owners in October last year, despite marketing the policies as 'lifetime' plans. Since most policies will not cover an animal with a pre-existing condition, those whose pet had developed a condition since taking up their Lloyds policies were left unable to find insurance from other providers.

However, under pressure from the Financial Ombudsman, which criticised the marketing of the policies and Lloyds' decision to withdraw from the pet insurance market, a campaign against the bank led by Dogs Today and a sizeable helping of bad press, Lloyds has now decided to offer new policies to 4,000 owners.

According to the Daily Telegraph, a spokesman for the bank said thousands of customers who bought pet insurance from either the Halifax, which also withdrew cover in August last year, or Lloyds TSB, would receive a letter reinstating their policies.

The spokesman added that the bank would be prepared to discuss the option of possible compensation with those who preferred not to renew their policies with Lloyds.

However, the insurance would not be available to new customers.

A spokesperson told the Telegraph: "We are writing to all of our Halifax and Lloyds TSB pet insurance customers who have pets with pre-existing medical conditions to confirm that we are aiming to offer them a completely new policy.

"This is a complex process that will take us time to work through, but we're doing everything we can to move this forward as quickly as possible."

Lloyds advised that those who need to make a claim before the policies have been reinstated should contact the bank.

What do you think? Are pet insurance policies worth the premium? Leave your comments below...

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Lloyds bows to pressure over 'cancelled' pet insurance policies originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Wed, 16 May 2012 01:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> cancelled pet insurance policiesCancelledPetInsurancePolicieslifetime pet insurance coverLifetimePetInsuranceCoverLloyds pet insuranceLloydsPetInsurancepet insurancePetInsurance SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Wed, 16 May 2012 01:13:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[How to handle noisy neighbours]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/15/how-to-handle-noisy-neighbours/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/15/how-to-handle-noisy-neighbours/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/15/how-to-handle-noisy-neighbours/#comments
how to deal with noisy neighbours

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  10. Sound proofing



Nuisance noise can really affect your day-to-day life, causing stress, sleeplessness and irritability. Unfortunately there is no set level at which loud noise becomes a 'statutory nuisance' and this can make it difficult to manage the situation.

However, if you are having issues with noise from next door, there are ways to get your peace and quiet back.

Talk to your neighbour
Before making a formal complaint, it's always a good idea to talk to the neighbour causing the problem. In some cases, they may not even be aware that they are causing you distress. Try not to confront the person responsible while the disturbance is occurring. A polite, non-aggressive approach is essential so wait until you are calm and pick a quiet moment to state your case.

Some may feel uncomfortable confronting the situation face-to-face but in this instance, a letter clearly stating the problem, with examples if possible, will get your point across. Keep a copy of the letter too as it will serve as proof that you have not only brought the matter to your neighbour's attention but show that you have tried to resolve the dispute.

If you are threatened or intimidated by the neighbour in question, however, just walk away. Serious threats of violence or anti-social behaviour are a matter for the police, so report any instances as soon as you can.

What next?
If your neighbour ignores your request and continues to create a nuisance, mediation may help. An independent mediator can act as referee in the dispute, helping both sides to understand the other's point of view and negotiate a resolution. Mediation is usually free so get in touch with your local council or housing association to see if they can provide such a service. Alternatively call Mediation UK who should be able to provide details of services in your area.

Formal complaints
Should mediation fail to resolve the situation, a formal complaint may be your only option. You will need to contact your local authority Environmental Health Department to make your complaint. The council has a duty to perform an investigation if they receive such a complaint but keeping a log of times and dates when you were disturbed by excessive noise is a good idea.

You may be visited at home by an Environmental Health Officer who will inform you of your rights and what to expect next, and the neighbour causing the problem will be informed that a complaint has been made, explain that they must take action to reduce the noise and let them know the legal consequences and penalties that may occur should they ignore the request. Your identity should be kept confidential.

Further action
If the problem persists despite the action taken by the local authority, you can take further action through the Magistrates court under Section 82 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Written records, listing details of the problem are essential if you go down this route as the court will need to be convinced beyond doubt that the noise is considered a statutory nuisance. Your neighbour must be given a minimum of three days written notice if you decide to take action.

However, do be aware that this can be costly and professional legal advice should be sought.

Have you had trouble with noisy neighbours? How did you resolve the situation? Leave your comments below...

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How to handle noisy neighbours originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Tue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> environmental healthEnvironmentalHealthmediationneighbour disputesNeighbourDisputesnoise disturbanceNoiseDisturbancenoisy neighboursNoisyNeighboursnuisance neighboursNuisanceNeighboursstatutory nuisanceStatutoryNuisance SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Tue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Experts warn of desk lunch DVT risk]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/15/experts-warn-of-desk-lunch-dvt-risk/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/15/experts-warn-of-desk-lunch-dvt-risk/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/15/experts-warn-of-desk-lunch-dvt-risk/#comments
dvt risk for those who lunch at their desks

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  10. Office exercises


A survey of young professionals aged between 21 and 30, by ComRes, found that three out of four office workers skipped their lunch break and three quarters admitted to eating at their desk, a practice which could significantly raise the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

Avid gamers were also at risk - of the 16 to 21-year-olds that took part in the same survey, nine out of 10 confessed they would go longer than 90 minutes without taking a break.

Since the blood flow to the vein behind the knee drops by 50 per cent after just 90 minutes of inactivity, the risk is not one to be taken lightly.

A separate survey of 400 workers by the Medical Research Institute of New Zealand found that those who regularly opted for a working lunch experienced a 2.2 increase in the risk of developing blood clots.

Dr Richard Beasley, director of the Institute, told the Daily Mail: "People know that a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease in later life.

"However, very few are aware of the fact prolonged immobility in the workplace also poses an immediate threat. People must be educated regarding the risks associated with sitting down for long periods."

So do yourself a favour this lunchtime and take a well-deserved break... your health just might depend upon it.

Do you take lunch at your desk or make sure you get out and about during your break? Leave your comments below...

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Experts warn of desk lunch DVT risk originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Tue, 15 May 2012 05:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> blood clotsblood flowBloodClotsBloodFlowcardiovascular diseaseCardiovascularDiseasedeep vein thrombosisDeepVeinThrombosisdiabetesdvtobesity SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Tue, 15 May 2012 05:09:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[European activity holiday ideas]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/14/european-activity-holiday-ideas/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/14/european-activity-holiday-ideas/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/14/european-activity-holiday-ideas/#comments
activity holidays in europe

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Here are a few of the best European destinations offering action-packed breaks.

Croatia
An increasingly popular tourist destination, Croatia boasts not only a glorious coastline but also a landscape that's perfect for a variety of activity holidays. Sea kayaking in the Adriatic, white water rafting on the spectacular Cetina River, cycling through the unspoilt countryside, it's ideal for a family break, and there's always that fabulous coast on which to relax after a hard day's fun.

Andorra
The breath-taking Pyrenees provide the backdrop to this family-friendly activity holiday destination. Ideal for serious hikers and mountain bikers, there's also white-water rafting to keep you entertained throughout the summer, while a winter break could include igloo building, dog-sledding and snowmobiling. Whatever time of the year you choose to visit this tiny principality, the scenery remains spectacular.

Portugal
The Algarve is already a popular summer destinations but inland Portugal is just as beautiful. Why not get a feel for rural Portugal with a guided tour of some of the country's national parks, either on horseback, bike or on foot. It's even possible to spend a day with a shepherd, where you'll learn more about Portuguese traditions while taking in stunning scenery.

If the lure of the sea is just too strong, an introduction to surfing on the Algarve will allow you to get your fix of sun, sea and sand while getting active on the water.

Turkey
With a mix of culture, wildlife and activities, Turkey is the ideal place for the hard-to-please family. For instance, you may choose to hike along the coastal Lycian Way, kayak over a sunken city or immerse yourself in a thermal spring. Alternatively take a short cruise along the stunning Turquoise Coast (which truly lives up to its name), go on a jeep safari and spend some time relaxing at a mountain retreat.

Then again, you could choose to explore the buzzing bazaars of Istanbul before trekking to the summit of Mr Ararat in the Kackar Mountains. Culture, history and beautiful landscape combine to create a holiday that has something for everyone.

Have you been on an activity holiday in Europe? Did it live up to your expectations and would you go again? Leave your comments below...

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European activity holiday ideas originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Mon, 14 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> activity holiday packagesactivity holidaysactivity holidays in europeActivityHolidayPackagesActivityHolidaysActivityHolidaysInEuropecycling holidays in europeCyclingHolidaysInEuropeeuropean activity holidaysEuropeanActivityHolidayshiking in europeHikingInEuropewalking holidays in europeWalkingHolidaysInEuropewater sports holidaysWaterSportsHolidays SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Mon, 14 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[America tops favourite long-haul holidays poll]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/14/america-tops-favourite-long-haul-holiday-poll/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/14/america-tops-favourite-long-haul-holiday-poll/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/14/america-tops-favourite-long-haul-holiday-poll/#comments Sunday Mirror's Homes and Holidays magazine, found that just over 40 per cent of Brits named the US as their favourite long-haul destination.

America is favourite long-haul holiday destination
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The USA's closest rival in the long-haul stakes was the Caribbean, which finished second with only 17.8 per cent of the vote, while Australia came in third with 8.7 per cent.

More surprisingly, the US also topped the list of favourite city breaks - a sizeable 20.2 per cent said the Big Apple was their dream city break, with Barcelona and Paris close behind.

The sun, sea and sand of the Spanish costas remains popular. For short-haul holidays, 31.1 per cent preferred Spain to Greece or Italy, and it seems we Brits are keen to make the most of our annual hols because 30.9 per cent of those polled dreamed of cutting out the cooking and cleaning with an all-inclusive break.

Of course, staycations are growing in popularity and Devon and Cornwall are reaping the benefits as the most popular UK destinations, followed by the Lake District and Scotland.

Homes and Holidays Travel Editor Marjorie Yue said: "Our travel poll reveals our love affair with America is as strong as ever. Thanks to the celebrity, the glitz and the famous good service, for many it's our dream trip.

"Nearer to home, Spain still delivers what most of our readers wish for from a holiday - sun, sea, sand and great value."

Few journeys are free of bugbears, however, and baggage charges, flight delays and 'hidden' flight charges were all among the list of irritants.

What would be your dream long-haul destination? Would America top your list? Leave your comments below...

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America tops favourite long-haul holidays poll originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Mon, 14 May 2012 04:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> americaeuropean city breaksEuropeanCityBreaksholidays in americaHolidaysInAmericalong-haul flightslong-haul holidaysLong-haulFlightsLong-haulHolidaysnew york city breaksNewYorkCityBreaks SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Mon, 14 May 2012 04:48:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Hepatitis: What you need to know]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/11/heptatitis-what-you-need-to-know/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/11/heptatitis-what-you-need-to-know/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/11/heptatitis-what-you-need-to-know/#comments
hepatitis what you need to know

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  10. Hepatitis C



There are several different types of the disease affecting millions of people worldwide. While some pass without doing any serious damage, others can last for years and, in the most serious cases, cause fatal liver failure.

By far the most common type in Britain is hepatitis C. The NHS estimates that around 255,000 people in England have the condition but many do not realise because the symptoms can easily be mistaken for other illnesses and often aren't noticeable until after the liver has been damaged.

Causes
Heptatitis C is spread by bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, semen or vaginal fluid, but since the highest concentration of the virus is in the blood, exposure to infected blood is how it is usually transferred.

For this reason, those that inject drugs are at particularly high risk. Infection can, however, occur during unprotected sex.

Symptoms
Early signs include a raised temperature, tiredness, stomach pains, nausea, vomiting and a loss of appetite. It is thought one in four people will successfully fight off the virus but for the remaining three out of our, hepatitis C can develop into a chronic, long-term illness.

By this time, more symptoms will likely be in evidence, including mood swings, problems with short-term memory and concentration, depression, joint and muscle pain, headaches, pain in the liver area and itchy skin. Anyone experiencing the above symptoms persistently should visit their GP to get tested.

If left untreated, chronic hepatitis C can result in scarring of the liver (cirrhosis), which can develop up to 20 years after infection. Heavy drinkers, those with type 2 diabetes and those who are also infected with HIV or another type of hepatitis are at greater risk of cirrhosis.

Treatment
Since most cases of hepatitis C go untreated during the early or acute phase because of the lack or mistaken diagnosis of symptoms, many sufferers are forced to deal with chronic hepatitis. A combination of medication is usually prescribed lasting from 24 weeks to 48 weeks. However, the side effects can be severe and include anaemia, depression, anxiety, insomnia, hair loss, itchiness, nausea and loss of appetite. Three out of four sufferers report experiencing one or more of these side effects.

Prevention
While there is no vaccine to protect against hepatitis C, it is possible to reduce your risk of infection.

It is particularly important that drug-users do not share needles and syringes but even sharing personal items such as razors or toothbrushes could put you at risk. Cuts and grazes should always be cleaned and covered and blood removed from surfaces.

Last but not least, always practice safe sex, especially if you are having sex with a new partner or frequently change your sexual partner.

If you are living with hepatitis C or are concerned that you are at risk, help, advice and support is available from the Hepatitis C Trust.

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Hepatitis: What you need to know originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Fri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> hepatitis advicehepatitis chepatitis screeninghepatitis symptomshepatitis treatmentHepatitisAdviceHepatitisCHepatitisScreeningHepatitisSymptomsHepatitisTreatmentsexual healthSexualHealthWorld Hepatitis DayWorldHepatitisDay SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Fri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Capped roaming charges allow holidaymakers to phone home]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/11/capped-roaming-charges-mobile-phones/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/11/capped-roaming-charges-mobile-phones/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/11/capped-roaming-charges-mobile-phones/#comments
mobile phone roaming charges capped

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  10. Mobile internet charges



The European Parliament has reportedly approved a series of caps on the cost of making calls and using the Internet on a mobile phone while travelling anywhere in the EU.

From July 1, the cap on mobile calls from abroad will drop from 28p a minute to 23p a minute, and by 2014, it will be slashed further to 15p a minute.

The same will be true for mobile Internet use, on which there is currently no limit to what suppliers can charge. This summer a cap of 56p per megabyte will be introduced and that is expected to drop to just 16p by 2014. Roaming charges for texting and receiving calls will also be cut.

Consumer groups and MPs have welcomed the move but say the charges are still too high.

Monique Goyens, from the European consumer group BEUC, told the Daily Mail that "given the proliferation of smartphones and, more notably, the actual cost of data provision for operators, this is still too high."

She added: "The issue of transparency remains a concern. A recent EU-wide survey found 74 per cent of consumers are hesitant to use their phone abroad to call, check email or download photos for fear of cost. This latest battle for fairer pricing can only help reduce that number."

The cap on roaming charges will no apply for anyone travelling outside the EU but those that holiday further afield will receive a warning message from their supplier when their data download charge is approaching £40.

What do you think? Welcome news or are the charges still too high? Leave your comments below...

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Capped roaming charges allow holidaymakers to phone home originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Fri, 11 May 2012 04:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> capped roaming chargesCappedRoamingChargesmobile phone chargesmobile phone roaming tariffsmobile phone tariffsMobilePhoneChargesMobilePhoneRoamingTariffsMobilePhoneTariffsroaming chargesRoamingCharges SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Fri, 11 May 2012 04:24:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Cosmetic surgery for men]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/10/cosmetic-surgery-for-men/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/10/cosmetic-surgery-for-men/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/10/cosmetic-surgery-for-men/#comments
cometic surgery for men

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So what's available and what's involved? Here are a few of the most popular types of surgery for men.

'Moob' jobs
Male breast reduction (or Gynaecomastia, to give it its proper name) has become popular with men who are self-conscious about their 'man boobs'. Just as with women, the surgery is done under general anaesthetic. Commonly, an incision is made just below the nipple and excess fat from the chest area is removed using a cannula. Depending on the amount of fat that is removed, the procedure takes about one to two hours and patients usually stay overnight to recover.

Post-op, some swelling and bruising is to be expected and it is generally advisable to take around 10 days off work. After two weeks, the swelling should be subsiding and within six weeks you can be back in the gym.

Weight loss surgery
Just as many women have turned to weight loss surgery to lose excess pounds, men too are increasingly turning to liposuction and tummy tucks in search of a better physique.

Liposuction is particularly popular among those who have succumbed to a 'beer belly' or middle-aged spread. This relatively simple procedure can be done under either local or general anaesthetic. Simply put, the fat is sucked from a specified location using a cannula. In some cases, where there is a large amount of fat that needs to be removed, two sessions may be required.

Patients are usually discharged on the same day. You may need to wear a special rightly wrapped garment, designed to minimise swelling and encourage the skin to retract, but you should expect some swelling and soreness after the op. Typically it is possible to return to your daily routine after two weeks but don't attempt anything strenuous for six weeks. And remember - if you don't eat a healthy diet and get some exercise, you'll soon be back to your original rotund shape.

Facial surgery
These days, it's possible to rejuvenate a tired-looking face, reshape ears, noses and jaw, and even have cheek or chin implants to give you that perfect profile.

The length of the procedure and recovery times obviously vary depending on just how much you want done. A full facelift, for example, will require two weeks rest and a good six weeks before your new face settles completely.

Opt for an eyebag removal procedure, where excess skin and fatty tissue is removed from under the lower eyelid, commonly takes two weeks from op to recovery with 10 days at home to allow the swelling to subside. The same can be said for rhinoplasty (nose job) and otoplasty (ear reshaping).

Hair transplants
Increasingly popular with celebs such as Gordon Ramsay and Wayne Rooney, a hair transplant can once again give you that full head of hair.

Usually performed under local anaesthetic with sedation, it involves a micro grafting technique where your own hair is taken from the back and sides of your head and grafted onto the balding area. Depending on the number of grafts needed, the procedure can take anywhere from two to four hours.

The grafted hair often falls out in the two weeks after the surgery but this is to be expected. New hair should appear after about three months and should grow just as it did before hair loss occurred.

Cosmetic surgery is not something to rush into. If you are considering a procedure, always go to a reputable surgeon and have a consultation so that you are fully aware of what is involved and any potential risks.

Have you tried cosmetic surgery and was it worth it? Leave your comments below...

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Cosmetic surgery for men originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Thu, 10 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> cosmetic surgerycosmetic surgery for menCosmeticSurgeryCosmeticSurgeryForMenfacial cosmetic surgeryFacialCosmeticSurgerylipsuctionmoobs surgeryMoobsSurgerytummy tuckTummyTuckweight loss surgeryWeightLossSurgery SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Thu, 10 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Cycle sales to soar as Brits take to the saddle]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/10/cycle-sales-to-soar-olympic-cycling/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/10/cycle-sales-to-soar-olympic-cycling/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/10/cycle-sales-to-soar-olympic-cycling/#comments
cycling chris hoy olympics 2012

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  10. Bike shops UK


According to analysts Mintel, Brits will not only be getting behind Olympic champions Victoria Pendleton, Mark Cavendish and Chris Hoy, but will swap four wheels for two, and a rise of eight per cent in cycle sales is predicted this year.

Currently more than a third of Brits cycle regularly with men considerably more likely to take to the saddle.

Four out of ten described themselves as a current cyclist, compared to one in four women, while twice as many male cyclists as female claim to take a bike ride most days.

The chaps were also more safety conscious. Some 23 per cent of men said they wore a helmet regularly, compared to a risk-taking 15 per cent of women.

Sadly one in five insist they would be put off cycling should the wearing of helmets become law, despite 49 per cent worrying that it's too dangerous to ride on the road, which may go some way to explaining why just two per cent have opted to use a self-service hire scheme such as the 'Boris Bikes'.

And while 60 per cent agree that cycling is a great way to cut down on traffic congestion, some 53 per cent of Brits believe cyclists get away with breaking the rules of the road too often.

Nevertheless, experts are hoping Olympic gold might encourage more people to take up cycling.

Mintel senior analyst Michael Oliver told the Daily Mail: "With obesity rates rising among both adults and children, there is clearly a political and financial imperative to encouraging greater physical activity, and cycling is a relatively inexpensive way of doing this.

"Role models in the Olympics means there is now an almost unrivalled opportunity to try to stimulate cycling participation."

What do you think? Are you a cycling enthusiast or do dangerous roads put you off? Leave your comments below...

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]]> bicyclescyclingmountain bikesMountainBikesolympic cyclingOlympicCyclingolympics 2012Olympics2012road bikesRoadBikes SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Thu, 10 May 2012 02:22:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Landlord disputes: What you need to know]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/09/landlord-disputes-what-you-need-to-know/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/09/landlord-disputes-what-you-need-to-know/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/09/landlord-disputes-what-you-need-to-know/#comments
landlord disputes

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  8. Landlord disputes
  9. Part ownership
  10. Eviction law



Tenant rights
Under the Private Tenancies Order 2006, all private sector tenants have basic rights. Your landlord should provide a rent book stating their name, address and rent payable, as well as details of when the rent is due and any other payments you may be liable for. This should be provided within 28 days of the start of your tenancy.

You have the right to claim Housing Benefit, provided this is included in the tenancy agreement.

As a tenant you are protected from harassment and illegal eviction. This means your landlord cannot change the locks, cut off essential utilities, interfere with your personal possessions or threaten you, either verbally or physically. Should any of the above occur, you should seek professional advice immediately.

All tenants have a right to a minimum of 28 days written notice to vacate the property. Should the tenant refuse to move out at the end of the notice period, the landlord has the right to begin court proceedings to evict and recover possession of the property.

Problems and disputes
Disputes between landlord and tenancy typically arise from unpaid arrears, rent increases and over the repayment of deposits.

If you are behind with your rent, your landlord has the right to seek an eviction order but it is always worth contacting your landlord to see if an agreement over repayment can be made.

Rent increases are largely governed by the type of tenancy agreement you have. If you are on a fixed-term tenancy, your landlord cannot increase the rent until the end of the tenancy period. If you are on a periodic tenancy, it is difficult to dispute rent rises. The UK charity Shelter provides excellent advice online to help you understand which tenancy agreement you have and what your rights are accordingly.

The law states that landlords and letting agents issuing an assured shorthold tenancy (AST) must protect a tenant's deposit using a government-approved tenant deposit protection (TDP) scheme. If you believe this is not the case, you can apply to the county court, which may either order the landlord to repay the deposit or pay it into a custodial scheme's bank account within 14 days, along with between one and three times the amount of the deposit paid to the tenant.

Finding a resolution
In any dispute, it is always best to try first to find a resolution without going to court, as this is costly and time-consuming. A mediation service, where both sides can discuss the issue, may help you to resolve the matter.

If a dispute arises over repayment of a protected deposit, both landlord and tenant can ask the Deposit Protection Service to deal with the dispute, provided both agree to be bound by the adjudicator of the Alternative Dispute Resolution service. Similarly if you believe your rent is too high or your landlord has increased the monthly payment unfairly, you may be able to challenge via the Rent Assessment Committee, although once again, this depends on your particular type of tenancy agreement.

Ultimately if neither party can find a resolution, either landlord or tenant may decide to take legal action via the small claims court, which deals with cases worth less than £5,000, typically regarding repairs or unpaid rent.

Eviction
The law sets out certain eviction procedures and if these are not followed correctly or the tenant is harassed it is illegal.

Should a tenant refuse to vacate the property at the end of the given notice period, the landlord must send a 'notice of intention to seek possession'. They can then apply to the court for a possession order. If granted the court will advise the date on which the tenant must leave or 'suspend' the order, allowing the tenant to stay on as long as they meet conditions set out by the court.

If the tenant refuses to leave despite a possession order, a landlord may apply for a warrant for eviction from the county court, whereby bailiffs can be employed to remove the tenant.

If you believe your landlord is attempting to evict you illegally, you should seek legal advice. The Community Legal Advice service, Citizens Advice Bureau or housing charity Shelter may be able to help.

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]]> evictioneviction lawEvictionLawlandlord disputesLandlordDisputesrented property rightsRentedPropertyRightstenancy lawsTenancyLawstenant disputesTenantDisputes SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Wed, 09 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Image-conscious men cause beauty salon surge]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/09/image-conscious-men-cause-beauty-salon-surge/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/09/image-conscious-men-cause-beauty-salon-surge/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/09/image-conscious-men-cause-beauty-salon-surge/#comments
men boost beauty salon sales

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  8. Fake tan
  9. London beauty salons
  10. Skin treatments


According to a nationwide survey, the number of male clients trying out beauty treatments has risen by a massive 66 per cent in the last 12 months.

The Beautiful Britain poll, commissioned by Salon Services UK & Ireland found that modern men are spending almost as much to look good as women - £92 for a hair cut, tanning treatment and massage, compared to £112 for women.

Though a hair cut remains the most popular reason for a trip to the salon, male demand for hair removal, manicures and tanning has reached record levels, giving the beauty industry a much-needed boost.

Scottish salons have already spotted the trend for male grooming and 74 per cent of beauty salons north of the border now offer treatments for image-conscious chaps.

Welsh lads are also determined to look their best. Some 47 per cent of Welshmen opted for hair removal, while a further 35 per cent used their local tanning salon to give them that sun-kissed look.

Richard Hull, managing director of Salon Services, told the Daily Mail: "Our customers are telling us that they are seeing a huge and increasing demand from men asking for beauty treatments. With the male hairdressing market estimated to be worth £1.2bn alone, this market now represents a significant opportunity for hairdressers and salons across the UK.

He added: "The growth of the male market is a significant contributing factor to this confidence and it shows no sign of slowing."

What do you think? Are men becoming more image-conscious? Leave your comments below...

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Image-conscious men cause beauty salon surge originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Wed, 09 May 2012 03:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> beauty salonsBeautySalonshair removalHairRemovalmale beauty treatmentsmale groomingMaleBeautyTreatmentsMaleGroomingmanicurestanning SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Wed, 09 May 2012 03:17:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Make money from your home]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/08/make-money-from-your-home/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/08/make-money-from-your-home/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/08/make-money-from-your-home/#comments
make money from your home

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  10. Renting rooms



If you own your home there are several ways in which you might be able to make a little extra cash and stay afloat financially into the bargain.

Rent a room
If you have a spare room sitting empty a lodger could help to pay the mortgage and a share of the utility bills. The Government's Rent a Room scheme allows you to earn up to £4,250 a year (gross) in tax-free income from renting part of your home to a lodger.

The scheme enables you to rent a single room or an entire floor of your home, provided that it is furnished and not converted into separate flats. Both homeowners and those renting can take advantage of this tax-free income, provided it is allowed under the terms of your mortgage lender/insurer's terms and conditions or your rental lease.

Most charge only for the rent of the room allowing the lodger use of the kitchen, bathroom and living room, but it is commonplace for the bills to be shared accordingly or included in the rental price. Of course you can charge more than the stipulated amount but do so and you will be liable to pay income tax on your profit.

Though the majority of homeowners might baulk at the idea given the current economic climate, for anyone who has the money in place for a loft conversion or extension with rentable possibilities, the advantages are two-fold. Not only will it enable you to rent out the space and recoup some of the money spent on building work, but when the housing market does pick up, you'll have added value to the property.

Holiday rentals
If you're lucky enough to be heading off in search of some sun, sea and sand this summer, why not consider renting out your home? Tourists and visitors to the UK are always on the lookout for comfortable property for short breaks, weekends or two-week holidays and you could earn anywhere from £300 a week to well over £1,000, depending on your area. London properties generally command the highest prices and with the Olympics just around the corner, you could make a bundle.

There are a number of websites on which you can register your home for short lets but do be aware that many corporate clients will expect the property to be furnished to a high standard and it will need to be spotless. You may also need to declare the income generated and you will need to make your insurer aware that people will be staying in the house.

Rent a parking space
Anyone who drives to work will know just how difficult finding a parking space can be. With public car park prices on the up and up and a traffic warden seemingly lurking round every corner, there's money to be made if you have parking to spare.

Those with off-road parking or a garage available can rent it out by the year. Websites such as YourParkingSpace.co.uk charge a £15 annual fee to advertise your space with a full refund if you it's not booked within 45 days. Earnings can be anywhere from £10 to £60 a week depending on your proximity to train stations, large employers or big sporting venues.

Location rentals
Gorgeous properties in lovely locations can often be rented out for photoshoots, TV or film.

Admittedly you're unlikely to get a Hollywood blockbuster booking unless you're living in a stunning country manor house but period properties and those in beautiful country or beach locations or with stunning interior design are often snapped up for magazine shoots.

Once again, there are a number of online location agencies about, though they will charge a percentage if your property is booked, and you should be prepared for busy crews and bulky equipment to be lugged in and out of your house. But with photographic shoots starting at around £500 a day and TV and film often paying upwards of £1,000 a day, it could be a quick and easy way to claw back some of the hard-earned cash you've spent on making your home perfect.

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]]> holiday letsholiday rentalHolidayLetsHolidayRentallodgersmake money from your homeMakeMoneyFromYourHomeproperty rentalPropertyRentalrent a parking spacerent a roomrent a room schemeRentAParkingSpaceRentARoomRentARoomSchemeshort letsShortLets SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Tue, 08 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[British brides seeking cheap ceremonies abroad]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/08/british-brides-seeking-cheap-ceremonies-abroad/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/08/british-brides-seeking-cheap-ceremonies-abroad/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/08/british-brides-seeking-cheap-ceremonies-abroad/#comments
More couples getting married abroad

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  5. Cheap weddings abroad
  6. Planning a wedding abroad
  7. UK weddings
  8. Wedding planners
  9. Beach weddings
  10. Honeymoon ideas


Of the 500 couples who took part in the survey, more than a third said they had already booked a ceremony in foreign climes, which means an estimated 80,000 Brits could head abroad to get hitched in the next year.

Unsurprisingly, money was the most common reason given for shunning the UK. Three out of 10 said it was at the root of their decision to marry abroad and some 30 per cent estimated they would save up to £5,000 on their dream wedding outside the UK.

One in three revealed they had actually cancelled their British wedding plans because of the rising costs.

Since the average cost of a wedding at home now tops £18,500, and a Church of England rate rise likely to add 40 per cent onto that as of next year, the number of overseas weddings is almost bound to increase. It is thought the number of UK weddings could fall to an all-time low next year.

Elvin Eldi, from Travelex, told the Daily Mail: 'It seems that the increasing costs associated with weddings these days, combined with the unpredictable British weather is driving many Brits to celebrate their nuptials abroad.

'With the pound at a 22-month high against the Euro and the likes of Spain and Portugal boasting less than half the average rainfall of the UK, it's little wonder we're saying 'I do' overseas.'

Of course, saving money wasn't the only reason for tying the knot elsewhere. One in three of the couples polled revealed getting married abroad was a cunning way of avoiding unwanted guests.

Italy, Paris and the Caribbean were among the most popular destinations for couples looking to start their wedded bliss abroad, while a sizeable 20 per cent went for a glitzy, Las Vegas do.

Are you planning to get married abroad? What were the reasons for your decision? Leave your comments below...

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]]> beach weddingsBeachWeddingscaribbean weddingsCaribbeanWeddingsgetting married abroadGettingMarriedAbroaduk weddingsUkWeddingswedding costsWeddingCostsweddings abroadWeddingsAbroad SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Tue, 08 May 2012 05:10:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Interval training]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/07/interval-training/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/07/interval-training/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/07/interval-training/#comments
Interval training

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Whatever your preferred method of cardio exercise, running, cycling, or swimming, interval training not only varies your routine but also saves time and helps you push your fitness to the next level.

What is interval training?
Simply put, it involves short bursts of high-intensity cardio followed by gentler 'recovery' periods. Professional athletes and trainers regularly use interval training because of its effectiveness but it provides a great workout whether you're relatively new to exercise or desperate or play competitive sport.

How does it work?
Short bursts of intense exercise push your heart and lungs to work harder, which ultimately improves your cardiovascular fitness. As you increase the length of the high-intensity intervals your muscles will gradually become more tolerant to the tell-tale lactic acid burn, thereby improving your stamina and enabling you to train harder for longer.

What are the benefits?
The benefits of interval training are numerous. The body's ability to use oxygen during exercise is significantly increased. Your heart will also benefit. As it becomes stronger with interval training, its efficiency, the amount of blood your heart pumps with each beat, increases, bringing down your resting pulse rate.

There's a good chance you will burn fat faster too. Carbohydrate reserves (glycogen) within the muscles are quickly depleted with high-intensity exercise. When these reserves are exhausted, the body calls upon a replacement - fat. That means that even after your workout, your body will continue to burn fat as it replaces the glycogen.

Interval training also means you can reach peak fitness without spending hours at the gym. Research at the McMaster University of Hamilton in Ontario Canada found that participants who embarked on an interval training regime for one and a half hours a week achieved the same results as those doing regular cardio for five hours a week.

What do I do?
You don't have to be a professional athlete to benefit from interval training but if you are a beginner it is essential not to push yourself too hard.

For example, if running is your chosen cardio exercise, you may want to start with three minutes of jogging followed by one minute or even 30 seconds of high intensity running. The low and high intensity intervals can then be repeated three times. In the early stages it is advisable to take a rest day in between sessions.

As you build endurance and cardio fitness, you will find you are able to increase the length of the high intensity work and reduce the low intensity jog. As with any exercise, a five minute warm-up is essential if you are to avoid damaging your body, and a five-minute cool down will gradually bring your heart rate down to its normal level.

For the already fit interval training fan, Tabata, founded by Izumi Tabata in Japan, is a high intensity interval training method for which you will need to be physically fit. Though it lasts just four minutes, the Tabata method involves bursts of extremely high intensity exercise, including barbell squats, push-ups, chin-ups and sprinting.

Whatever your fitness level or reason for trying interval training, it is recommended that you seek professional advice from a personal trainer who will be able to set a regime to suit you.

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]]> cardio fitnessCardioFitnessfitness trainingFitnessTraininginterval traininginterval training benefitsIntervalTrainingIntervalTrainingBenefitspersonal trainersPersonalTrainerstabata SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Mon, 07 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[ME Awareness Week]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/04/me-awareness-week/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/04/me-awareness-week/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/04/me-awareness-week/#comments
ME Awareness Week

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  10. ME support


Established in 1987, the charity aims to raise awareness of the condition, raise money for research and campaigns for better treatment.

So what is ME and what are the symptoms, causes and treatments available? Here's what you need to know.

What is ME?
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), is a long-term, fluctuating illness that results in a variety of symptoms. It often affects the nervous and immune systems.

Who is affected?
Anyone can get ME but it is more common in women than in men. Though the condition usually develops in the early 20s to mid-40s, children can also be affected, most commonly between the ages of 13 and 15.

Symptoms
The symptoms of ME vary from person to person and range from the mild to the very severe.

The main symptom is severe fatigue (hence the name Chronic Fatigue Syndrome preferred by the NHS). A feeling of exhaustion following both mental and physical activity is not alleviated by sleep or rest and can therefore have serious consequences for the sufferer.

Other common symptoms include muscular or joint pain, severe headaches, stomach pain and a sore throat. Trouble sleeping, concentrating and difficulty organising your thoughts may also be a symptom, while in more severe cases, some sensitivity to bright light or loud noises is experienced. Less common symptoms include dizziness, sweating and problems with balance.

Though fatigue is usually the main symptom, most sufferers experience one or more other symptoms that are unexplained by other conditions, and are persistent or recurrent.

Causes
Exactly what causes ME is still unknown but it is thought there are a number of factors that could increase the risk of developing the condition. These include an inherited genetic susceptibility, mental stress and depression, viral infections such as glandular fever that may weaken the immune system, and traumatic events, either in childhood or more recently.

Treatment
The symptoms of ME can last for years but help is available and many sufferers are able to make adjustments that improve their symptoms.

Some patients may be prescribed medication such as painkillers (though over-the-counter medicines are often enough to ease muscle or joint pain and headaches), and antidepressants.

However, once diagnosed, most sufferers will be referred to a programme of treatment involving a variety of therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, which helps to identify and change the way you think, feel and behave, and graded exercise therapy, a structured programme designed to gradually increase how long you can sustain physical activity.

Many sufferers find they benefit from lifestyle advice aimed at controlling the symptoms of ME, such as pacing, which enables the patient to balance periods of activity with periods of rest, thereby learning to adjust your daily routine so as not to push beyond their physical limits.

ME can affect all areas of a sufferer's life and leave them feeling helpless. If you are struggling to cope with the condition or would like to help raise awareness, visit www.actionforme.org.uk.

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]]> CFSchronic fatigue syndromeChronicFatigueSyndromeMEME Awareness WeekME symptomsME TreatmentMeAwarenessWeekmental healthMentalHealthMeSymptomsMeTreatmentmyalgic encephalomyelitisMyalgicEncephalomyelitis SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Fri, 04 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[UK activity holiday ideas]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/03/uk-activity-holiday-ideas/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/03/uk-activity-holiday-ideas/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/03/uk-activity-holiday-ideas/#comments
UK activity holiday ideas

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  8. Walking holidays UK
  9. Road cycling holidays
  10. Mountain biking holidays UK


Walk
The varied landscape of the UK means it's a wonderful place to explore on foot. From Cornish coastal paths to Highland hikes, fabulous views and wild countryside await. There are a number of holiday companies in the UK that cater specifically for walkers, most including accommodation along your chosen route. Keen ramblers may like to try Snowdonia National Park, the Scottish Highlands or the ever-popular Lake District. Those looking for a gentler stroll should consider the rolling hills of the Cotswolds or Kent.

Cycle
Another great way to take in the breathtaking scenery the UK has to offer is on two wheels. Once again, there are holidays to cater for everyone, whether you're up for a tough mountain bike challenge, or a gentle pedal through country lanes or forest paths. Most cycling holiday companies also arrange accommodation for your self-guided tour and the great thing is that whatever your age or ability, you can take things at your own pace.

Ride
If pedal-power is not your thing, why not take an entirely different kind of saddle. Walk, trot or canter through the dramatic Yorkshire Dales, take a five-day trek along the Pennine Bridleway Trail or gallop along miles of sandy Pembrokeshire beach. Most equestrian holidays cater for beginners and experienced riders, so don't be put off if you've only ever sat on a donkey at Blackpool beach. For the more experienced horseman or woman, you can even experience the adventure of a cattle drive on Dartmoor.

Get wet
Rivers, canals, lakes, seas, this green and pleasant land is criss-crossed with and surrounded by water. So why not make the most of it? Kayak on the River Severn, ride the surf at Newquay, or experience the thrill of white water rafting in Wales. Many kayaking, canoeing and rafting centres also run other activities, from archery and clay pigeon shooting to abseiling and climbing and these make for a great family holiday, as there is something for everyone, no matter how young or old.

Get skills
For those who prefer to take things a little easier on their hols, a break combined with a course of your choice might be the way to go. Master your watercolours in the Peak District, photograph the stunning Cornwall coast or get your hands dirty with a pottery course in Suffolk. If, on the other hand, the way to your heart is through your stomach, there is a wealth of cookery breaks across the UK, including beginner's classes, lessons for kids or even the chance to develop those culinary skills at the world famous Manoir Aux Quat' Saisons.

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]]> activity holidaysActivityHolidaysart coursesArtCoursescookery coursesCookeryCoursescycling holidaysCyclingHolidaysfamily activity holidaysFamilyActivityHolidayshorse riding holidaysHorseRidingHolidayskayakingsurfinguk activity holidaysuk holidaysUkActivityHolidaysUkHolidayswalking holidaysWalkingHolidays SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Thu, 03 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Why taking a cruise could be bad for your waistline]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/03/cruise-passengers-put-on-weight/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/03/cruise-passengers-put-on-weight/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/03/cruise-passengers-put-on-weight/#comments
holiday weight gain

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According to a new survey, many cruise passengers return to dry land weighed down by an extra stone.

The poll, by independent cruise travel agents Bonvoyage.co.uk, revealed that the combination of relaxation and readily available food means passengers quickly put on weight.

In fact, more than half of the 1,281 Brits who took part in the survey said they put on a pound a day over the course of a two-week cruise, leaving them a full stone heavier at the end of the holiday. An unlucky six per cent put on a whopping 18lbs.

It seems the temptation of fabulous food around the clock is just too much for the majority of sea-going holidaymakers. Of those polled, 84 per cent admitted they ate far more than normal while on board, while 31 per cent confessed to doubling their usual calorie intake.

Unsurprisingly, 41 per cent struggled to lose the extra pounds when they returned home.

Steph Curtin, cruise development manager at Bonvoyage.co.uk, told the Daily Mail: "I am as guilty as these respondents when it comes to indulging when on a cruise holiday, as the delicious food and drink on offer can be difficult to say no to.

"This is particularly the case when on an all-inclusive cruise, where you know that all of the tempting food on offer has already been paid for."

So if you are planning a cruise this year, it might pay to carefully consider your wardrobe - you never know when those larger sizes may come in handy.

What do you think? Do you worry about putting on weight while on holiday or forget the diet and over-indulge? Leave your comments below...

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Why taking a cruise could be bad for your waistline originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Thu, 03 May 2012 02:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> cruisecruise passengersCruisePassengersdietsweight gainweight lossWeightGainWeightLoss SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Thu, 03 May 2012 02:34:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Get out of debt]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/02/get-out-of-debt/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/02/get-out-of-debt/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/02/get-out-of-debt/#comments
get out of debt

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If you are struggling to cope with mounting debts and threatening letters are a feature of everyday life, you're not alone. However, it is possible to recover and there are options available that can help you out of what can seem like a hopeless situation.

Face facts
Before you can even attempt to find a solution, you need first of all to face up to the problem. Burying your head in the sand will only make things worse - this is a problem that won't just go away. If you've been keeping your money worries to yourself, now is the time to tell someone. You might be surprised at how telling a spouse, family member or good friend can begin to lift the burden and set you on the road to recovery.

Budget
With your financial issues out in the open, it's time to make a plan. By working out your personal budget (and again, honesty is key if the plan is to work), noting incomings, outgoings and any arrears that are building up, you'll be able to see where to cut back. With this done, you can work out how much you can realistically afford to pay creditors.

Prioritise
Of course, all your debts will need to be dealt with but some should take priority. Mortgage repayments and secured loans, rent, taxes and utility bills should be top of your list.

Credit cards, store cards, overdrafts and catalogue repayments shouldn't be ignored but are considered non-priority debts when you're having serious financial difficulties.

Make contact
Now that you've got that budget sorted out, you're ready to make contact with your creditors. By making contact, starting with the priority debts, you will be showing a willingness to pay and many creditors will look more kindly at your situation if you do so.

Be sure to have a repayment plan worked out before you call or write. Most lenders would rather not take you to court and will allow you to pay the arrears or debt off gradually over time. As long as you keep the payments up, you should be able to avoid more serious consequences such as repossession and county court judgements. Utility suppliers, for example, may encourage you to pay by direct debit, where the existing debt is incorporated into your monthly payments.

If you feel overwhelmed by the situation and are uncomfortable doing this yourself, a debt management company can do the negotiating for you, leaving you to pay one payment which is then distributed amongst your creditors. The majority of debt management companies will charge a fee but free plans are available from the National Debtline and the Consumer Credit Counselling Service.

There are many debt consolidation companies offering loans to cover all your debts too, but do be aware that the interest rates are often quite high and you will end up paying more than your original debt so get professional advice if you are considering this option.

What are the alternatives?
Even if it feels as though there is no way out, help is available. For example, if you owe less than £5,000 an Administration Order can help you to negotiate with creditors and make regular, affordable payments. You will, however, need to apply via your county court and there costs and conditions may apply.

Similarly, for those with debts less than £15,000 who do not own their own home, a debt relief order may enable you to avoid bankruptcy.

In more serious cases, it may be necessary to apply for an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) via an authorised insolvency practitioner. This debt specialist will help you to work out exactly how much you can afford to pay and contact all your creditors on your behalf. They will then take one regular payment from you and spread the money between the creditors. An IVA usually means interest and charges on your debts is frozen, thereby allowing you to start to clear them.

Bear in mind though, that you MUST keep up the payments and you will be listed on the Individual Insolvency Register, making it hard for you to get credit.

Bankruptcy should always be seen as the last resort. When you are made bankrupt by the court, a 'trustee' is put in charge of your finances. The trustee may seize assets such as your home in order to pay some of the debts and you will have to hand over bank and credit cards. Any spare income can also be used to help pay your creditors.

After a period of 12 months, you are usually discharged from your debts. However, credit reference agencies keep a record of bankruptcy for six years, which means your ability to get credit will be severely affected.

For a free, confidential money healthcheck visit www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk. Alternatively, if you are in need of advice and support, try the Citizens Advice Bureau or the National Debtline who will discuss your financial problems and talk through the options available to you.

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Get out of debt originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Wed, 02 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bankruptcycredit cardsCreditCardsdebtdebt advicedebt consolidationdebt helpDebtAdviceDebtConsolidationDebtHelpget out of debtGetOutOfDebtivasloans SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Wed, 02 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Borrowers warned over credit card transfer trap]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/02/credit-card-transfer-trap/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/02/credit-card-transfer-trap/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/02/credit-card-transfer-trap/#comments
credit card transfer interest charges

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The debt charity Credit Action advised that borrowers who sign up for one of the many money-transfer cards on the market in a bid to clear other debts could end up in a high-interest trap.

Many credit card customers take advantage of zero percent introductory offer to transfer cash into their current accounts, paying off an overdraft in the process. However, if consumers aren't careful they can end up in more debt.

Data company Defaqto says there are now 61 cash-transfer cards with an interest-free period on the market. However, there is usually a fee for moving cash (commonly four or five per cent of the amount transferred) and if you fail to pay back the full amount before the end of the interest-free period, the charges soon mount up.

While it can be a cheap way to borrow if used correctly, miss your monthly payments or fail to transfer your cash within 60 days and it's likely you'll pay far more in interest that you would with a personal loan.

Credit Action suggests borrowers should read the small print carefully.

Michelle Highman, from the charity, told the Daily Mail: "Money-transfer cards can be great if you use them within the interest-free period, but you must understand what you're signing up for and pay back at the right time.

"A zero per cent offer may look tempting, but break the rules and you can find yourself racking up very high charges."

What do you think? Have you fallen into the credit card transfer trap? Leave your comments below...

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Borrowers warned over credit card transfer trap originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Wed, 02 May 2012 02:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bank overdraftsBankOverdraftscredit card transferscredit cardsCreditCardsCreditCardTransfersdebtinterest free credit cardsInterestFreeCreditCards SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Wed, 02 May 2012 02:50:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Petrol vs Diesel - which car is right for you?]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/01/petrol-vs-diesel-which-car-is-right-for-you/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/01/petrol-vs-diesel-which-car-is-right-for-you/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/01/petrol-vs-diesel-which-car-is-right-for-you/#comments
petrol vs diesel

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Buying costs
Diesel cars are still more expensive to buy. Diesel engines need to be stronger to cope with the explosion this fuel type creates within the engine cylinders, and stronger, heavier engines inevitably work out more expensive.

With European regulations on exhaust emissions becoming ever-more stringent, emission control systems on diesel cars also bump up the cost, while turbochargers increase the price even further. All in all, the diesel models of many new cars will cost over £1,000 more than their petrol counterparts.

Having said that, diesel cars are in high demand and usually hold their value better than the petrol alternatives, so if you regularly change your car, diesel may well be the better option.

Fuel costs
It will not have escaped any driver's attention that fuel prices have risen dramatically in the last few months. Where diesel used to be the cheaper option, these days it's more expensive at the pumps, costing somewhere between 5p and 7p more per litre than unleaded.

If, however, you make regular, long journeys a diesel car will almost certainly save you money in the long run as a diesel engine will get somewhere in the region of an extra 10mpg on average, possibly even more.

Bear in mind though that diesel particulate filters (DPF), often fitted to diesel cars to meet emissions regulations, mean you'll need to make regular long runs, sometimes at a high engine speed, to effectively clean the filter.

Tax costs
It's good news for diesel fans on the tax front because, due to their efficiency, they generally fit into a lower tax band than the comparable petrol model, and that could save you a packet, particularly if you're looking for something with a sizeable engine. Some diesel cars are even tax exempt.

Servicing and repair costs
In the past, diesels have had a reputation for being more expensive to service but that's not necessarily the case. In fact, servicing costs for both petrol and diesel show no significant price difference over a typical three-year period. Be warned though - major repairs on diesel engines often cost considerably more and, if you do have a model fitted with a DPF and are not making the long, high-speed journeys required to clean the filter, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise at the garage.

Performance
There was a time when the petrol car was smoother, faster and quieter than its diesel rival. These days though, the diesel car is an altogether more refined motor. More advanced technology means even acceleration isn't the issue it used to be - choose a turbocharged model and you'll find the diesel is closely matched with its petrol cousin. More torque at low revs also makes diesel a better option if you are doing a lot of towing. It is still, however, a little noisier than the petrol alternative.

So what's the verdict? Which fuel type you choose really depends on what kind of driving you do. If you regularly make long motorway journeys (and drive 10,000 miles a year according to Glass's Guide), the fuel-efficient diesel could save you a packet at the pumps, not to mention the saving on tax. If, on the other hand, you're making short, daily trips to the shops, struggling though stop-start traffic, a small petrol car just might prove the cheaper option.

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Petrol vs Diesel - which car is right for you? originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Tue, 01 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> diesel carsdiesel pricesDieselCarsDieselPricesfuel economyFuelEconomypetrol carspetrol pricespetrol vs dieselPetrolCarsPetrolPricesPetrolVsDieselused carsUsedCars SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Tue, 01 May 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[More sleep could aid weight loss]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/01/sleep-could-aid-weight-loss/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/01/sleep-could-aid-weight-loss/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/05/01/sleep-could-aid-weight-loss/#comments
sleep could aid weight loss

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The research team examined how sleep interacts with a number of genes associated with obesity and found that a good night's kip could suppress some of those genes that lead to weight gain.

The genes in question regulate metabolism and can affect how the body stores energy.

More than 1,000 pairs of twins took part in the study and the results showed that for those who slept less than seven hours each night the genetic influence on their body mass index (BMI) was more twice that of those who spent nine hours in dreamland.

Dr Nathaniel Watson, who led the study, wrote in the journal Sleep: "Shorter sleep provides a more permissive environment for the expression of obesity-related genes.

"Or it may be that extended sleep is protective by suppressing expression of obesity genes."

Dr Watson added that the results were preliminary but advised that extended sleep could help mitigate the genetic influences on obesity, thereby aiding the weight loss battle.

What do you think? Will you be getting your nine hours from now on? Leave your comments below...

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More sleep could aid weight loss originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Tue, 01 May 2012 03:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> dietslose weightLoseWeightobesity genesObesityGenessleepsleep and weight lossSleepAndWeightLossweight lossWeightLoss SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Tue, 01 May 2012 03:50:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Start dieting for summer]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/30/start-dieting-for-summer/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/30/start-dieting-for-summer/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/30/start-dieting-for-summer/#comments
diet for summer

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Rather than resorting to maple syrup concoctions or cabbage soup, follow our top tips for shifting weight at a sensible rate, and toning and tightening those saggy bits.

Make a plan
Quick fixes might sound tempting but they're tough on your body and mind, and all too often, you'll end up putting all those hard-lost pounds back quicker than you can say chocolate eclair.

To really take control of your diet, make a plan and list your goals. A diet diary can really help, particularly in those first couple of weeks, as you'll be able to see exactly where those unnecessary calories are coming from. As the days go by you'll get a certain satisfaction from seeing the change in your diet and, hopefully, your weight. Make a note too of your exercise habits to see how much you've progressed over the weeks.

The chances are you've got friends that are having similar bikini-body wobbles, so enlist them into your programme. A little healthy competition can work wonders when it comes to motivation.

Try not to set yourself unrealistic goals, however, as you will soon become disheartened. It might be a case of setting yourself a weekly exercise target or achieving a takeaway-free weekend, overcoming those small obstacles will give you a sense of achievement and inspire you to carry on.

With a healthy diet and regular exercise it's possible to lose one to two pounds a week. It doesn't sound like much but stick to it for a couple of months and you'll find a whole new set of summer wardrobe options opens up.

Eat fresh
Starting your diet at this time of year has one advantage - you're far less likely to feel the need for all that winter-warming comfort food. Plus, the shops will be awash with healthy, seasonal produce to keep those tastebuds happy.

Stock up on fresh fruit and veggies, choose chicken or oily fish instead of red meat and swap ice cream for yoghurt. If you've got a fridge full to bursting, you won't be tempted to pop to the shop for a ready meal on your way home from work.

Just as important, of course, are those daily snacks... and this is where the celery sticks come in. Keep fresh vegetables such as celery and carrots on hand or grab a handful of unsalted nuts or dried fruit to combat crisp and chocolate cravings. Don't forget those cans of pop either. They're packed full of sugar and the calories quickly mount up. Fruit juice too, contains a surprising calorie hit so opt instead for low-calorie squash or vegetable juices that are crammed full of goodness and can help control your appetite.

Exercise
There's no getting away from it - you're going to have to get up and get out if you want to really make a difference on the scales.

To lose that one or two pounds a week, you'll need to be burning between 500 and 1,000 calories more than you're consuming. For fat burning you just can't beat a bit of cardio. If you're able to get 20 to 30 minutes of running, swimming or cycling in each day (and there's no excuses now the long evenings have set in), you'll be well on the way to achieving your goal.

Combine it with daily toning of all your major muscles groups. Tightening up those arms, legs, bum and tum will do wonder for your figure and can quickly give you the impression of having lost more weight than you actually have. If you can't face the full set, work a different muscle group each day. It's a good idea to get professional advice when it comes to an exercise regime, so if you've still got that unused gym membership gathering dust, now is the time to use it.

An introductory session with a personal trainer will ensure you're doing enough but not too much, and show you the best ways to tone up those problem areas.

With a little help from your friends, a fridgeful of healthy grub, a daily dose of exercise and a large helping of good old-fashioned willpower, you'll be donning those sexy summer dresses and shorts before you know it.

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Start dieting for summer originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> beach body dietsBeachBodyDietsdietseasy dietsEasyDietsexercisehealthy dietHealthyDietsummer dietsSummerDiets SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Mon, 30 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Doctors back calls to withhold treatment for smokers and the obese]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/30/withhold-treatment-for-smokers-and-the-obe/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/30/withhold-treatment-for-smokers-and-the-obe/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/30/withhold-treatment-for-smokers-and-the-obe/#comments
doctors urge NHS to withhold non-emergency treatment for smokers and the obese

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The poll, by website doctors.net.uk, asked members: 'Should the NHS be allowed to refuse non-emergency treatments to patients unless they lose weight or stop smoking?

Of the 1,096 doctors that took part in the voluntary survey, 54 per cent answered yes.

The withholding of treatment would not, of course, include the treatment of serious illness or emergency procedures but a number of private health clinics have already banned IVF treatment and hip and knee replacements on the grounds that the surgery is less likely to work on those with unhealthy habits.

Some medical experts have called for the NHS to do the same amidst ever-increasing cuts, though patient groups have slammed the idea claiming it is a breach of human rights.

Dr Tim Ringrose, chief executive of doctors.net.uk, told The Observer: 'This might appear to be only a slim majority of doctors in favour of limiting treatment to some patients who fail to look after themselves, but it represents a tectonic shift for a profession that has always sought to provide free healthcare from the cradle to the grave.'

However, others have condemned the idea of a ban. Dr Clare Gerada, chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, said: 'Clearly, giving up smoking is a good thing, but blackmailing people by telling them that they have to give up isn't what doctors should be doing.'

Similarly, chairman of the British Medical Association's consultants committee, Dr Mark Porter insisted that treatment bans were 'wholly unacceptable'.

What do you think? Should the NHS save money by banning non-emergency treatments for smokers and the obese? Leave your comments below...

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Doctors back calls to withhold treatment for smokers and the obese originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 04:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> NHS treatmentNhsTreatmentobesityobesity treatmentObesityTreatmentsmokingsmoking-related illnessSmoking-relatedIllness SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Mon, 30 Apr 2012 04:03:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Grand Designs Live - get inspired]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/27/grand-designs-live-get-inspired/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/27/grand-designs-live-get-inspired/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/27/grand-designs-live-get-inspired/#comments
grand designs live

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Over 500 exhibitors will be showing off their most fabulous, futurist and innovative designs for everything from self-build and interiors to kitchens and gardens.

The popular Ask An Expert section features top industry experts who will be on hand to answer all of your self-build or renovation questions, while industry maestros from the world of interiors and gardening will be offering up their tricks of the trade at the GRAND Interiors Theatre and GRAND Show Gardens.

As always, 100's of new and often astounding products will be on show to give you a glimpse of the homes of the future. Alternatively, those looking for an eco-friendly solution to their home or garden problem can visit the Grand Village, where an array of show homes will reveal innovative architecture and environmentally friendly ideas to give you green inspiration.

Elsewhere Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud will be revealing his favourite builds from the show at the Nano Village, and picking out his Green Heroes, the innovative inventors who have put eco-friendly home and garden products on the map.

For those overwhelmed by the outstanding ideas and solutions on display, the Live Kitchen Experience, where top chefs will be showing off their skills, can provide a little mouth-watering relief and, with your appetite suitably whetted, the Grand Restaurant or Cafe will no doubt be your next stop.

Whatever your home or garden needs, Grand Designs Live is the perfect place to gain knowledge, advice and inspiration.

Grand Designs Live runs from May 5 to May 13 at the Excel London. Tickets start from £12 and children under 15 go free.

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Grand Designs Live - get inspired originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> diygarden and home showsgarden tipsGardenAndHomeShowsGardenTipsGrand DesignsGRand Designs LiveGrandDesignsGrandDesignsLivegreen homesGreenHomeshome exhibitionsHomeExhibitionsinterior designInteriorDesign SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Commuting by bicycle - top tips and advice]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/26/commuting-by-bicycle-top-tips-and-advice/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/26/commuting-by-bicycle-top-tips-and-advice/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/26/commuting-by-bicycle-top-tips-and-advice/#comments
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And of course there's the handy fact that you get a free workout at each end of the day as well.

So if you're sold on the idea yourself, here are some basic advice and tips that should really help.

Choosing your bike
"Racing" road bikes, tourers, hybrids and folding bikes are among the most popular types of cycle used for commuting.

Race bikes have sharp handling, pick-up speed quickly and are exhilarating to ride, but can be skittish and may not be as comfortable as some other options.

Tourers look similar - with drop bars - but tend to have slightly wider tyres, more mellow handling and added practicality for attaching bags (panniers) and mudguards.

Hybrids can combine the speed of the road bike with the more upright stance of a mountain bike - and are very popular with newcomers to cycling. There are many commuter-specific machines on the market.

Folding bikes deserve a feature all to themselves, but although inevitably compromised can be very pleasant to ride and of course offer the opportunity to ride at both ends of a train journey and then store your bike next to you desk.

And if you already have a mountain bike, it can easily be made commute-friendly with the addition of some slick tyres and mudguards.

Technology has even made "electric-assist" bikes a more viable option than in the past, so if you have a medical condition or need to arrive at work fresher these can be a good option.

Fixed gear bikes have been all the rage with hip young cyclists over the last few years, but think very carefully before getting one of these and definitely try one out over a decent distance. They are probably not the best option for those new to cycling.

Security
The best option is to have secure storage at your place of work, although this isn't always possible. Even if you do have somewhere to keep your bike in the office car park, it's still a good idea to chain it up just in case.

If storing your bike in public, you really don't want to be riding anything too fancy. In fact, the tattier your bike looks, the better.

When buying a lock look for a Solid Secure rating (Gold, Silver or Bronze) - and go for something that is as chunky as possible. Kryptonite, Abus and Squire are three of the best-known brands.

Replace quick release bolts for nutted or security key versions and run a coil lock through the wheels and saddle rails as well as the frame.

Clothing
Unless you have a very short or flat commute (and the weather is good), it's unlikely that you'll want to ride in your work attire.

You'll also be more comfy in cycle-specific clothing - so do consider investing in a nice pair of cycle shorts (perhaps a few pairs), jerseys and then some longer tights or bibs (like dungarees) and a waterproof jacket for the winter.

Hi-visibility colours and reflective strips are a must-have.

There are loads of websites selling all this stuff, but unless you know what you're doing it can be better to go to a shop so you can try things on and get advice.

On a practical note, your employer may not provide shower facilities - in which case you may wish to invest in an economy size box of baby wipes.

You'll also probably want to keep a stock of clean clothes at the office, to make logistics easier.

Other kit
You will need lights as well if riding in the winter, but there are some amazing LED units on the market now and prices can be very affordable if you do your research.

Once you get into it you may wish to invest in "clipless" pedals, which work with special shoes to give you more power for less effort. And of course you'll definitely want a helmet and some gloves to protect your noggin and hands respectively.

Heavy duty commuting tyres and anti-puncture systems are available, but many add weight to the wheels - which are the most important part of the bike to keep light - so try riding with normal tyres and tubes and see how you get on.

Mudguards are pretty essential for all but fairweather riders, and will be specific to the type of bike you buy - so take advice from your friendly local bike shop.

Riding tips
If you're not a confident cyclist already then you really should think about getting some training, it's easy to find out about and usually nice and cheap.

This will help you to get the confidence to ride defensively, making it less likely that you'll come a cropper due to somebody's bad driving.

If you're riding in a town you'll also have other cyclists to contend with, so be sure to treat them with the same courtesy you would wish to be treated yourself - and don't push your way to the front at the traffic lights, only to hold everyone else up afterwards.

By all means use cycle lanes, but be wary of pedestrians straying into them, as they have a habit of doing, and anticipate finding vehicles parked across them - so ride with your head up (as you should do anyway in traffic).

If you're finding the distance hard to deal with, consider going one way by public transport if you can leave your bike somewhere safe overnight. If not, maybe only commute by bike a couple of days a week to start with and build it up gradually.

Tax break
Find out if your company offers tax relief on a new bike via the bike to work scheme, which allows a bike to be paid for from your salary before tax - and your employer to reclaim the VAT.

This can save you 40 per cent on the cost of a bike and those taking part are commonly allowed to spend up to £1k on a cycle and accessories.

The scheme is a bit complicated for us to explain fully here, but your company's HR or accounts department should be able to make sense of it easily if you point them in the right direction.

What do you think? Did we miss anything? Let us know below...

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Commuting by bicycle - top tips and advice originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> bicyclebikecommutecommutingwork SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Stacey King) Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Milton Keynes named UK's first-time buyer hotspot]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/26/milton-keynes-named-uks-first-time-buyer-hotspot/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/26/milton-keynes-named-uks-first-time-buyer-hotspot/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/26/milton-keynes-named-uks-first-time-buyer-hotspot/#comments
Estate agent property for sale mortgagesTop related searches:

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The financial information firm found that one in ten households in the Buckinghamshire town is a first-time buyer.

The town, which was established in 1967 and has a population of around 245,000, came out ahead of other first-time buyer hotspots Dartford, Swindon, Slough, Aldershot, Basingstoke and Crawley.

With high house prices and a squeeze on mortgage lending, thousands of people struggle to get on the property ladder - especially when deposits are higher than ever. These days, if you want to buy a £200,000 home, you would typically need to put down a 20 per cent deposit, or £40,000.

The Experian report stated: "Ever since homeownership began around the 50s and 60s, Londoners have had to move out to the regions to be able to afford a home... towns such as Milton Keynes are very attractive and practical places to live which allow first-time purchasers to have the lifestyle as well as to get on the property ladder."

David Hill, chief executive of Milton Keynes Council told the Daily Mail: "Milton Keynes is a very prosperous place which is flourishing despite these tough economic times.

"The fact that we have so many new businesses opening or relocating here means that we can offer first-time buyers much needed job security."

Would you - or do you - live in Milton Keynes? Would you recommend it as a great place to buy?

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Milton Keynes named UK's first-time buyer hotspot originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> buying a houseBuyingAHousefirst time buyersFirstTimeBuyersMilton KeynesMiltonKeynesmortgageproperty SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:51:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[8.05pm - the nation's favourite time to shop online]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/25/8-05pm-the-nations-favourite-time-to-shop-online/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/25/8-05pm-the-nations-favourite-time-to-shop-online/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/25/8-05pm-the-nations-favourite-time-to-shop-online/#comments
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  1. Online shopping
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According to a new survey, 8.05pm is our favourite time to log on and start shopping. Rather than settling down and giving our favourite soap or drama our full attention, many of us have one eye on our laptop, checking out eBay bargains and surfing the net for a good deal.

More than half of UK shoppers say they order goods over the internet while watching the box, with the time spent shopping online adding up to six hours a month on average.

The Global Online Shopper Report, conducted by payment services company WorldPay, found that shoppers spend a fourth of their disposable income shopping online, with the most popular products being clothes, books and CDs.

The most popular site was online retail giant Amazon, with nine out of 10 respondents reporting a purchase from the company during the last three months.

Second most popular was eBay, with 57 per cent of e-shoppers using the site. Department stores, clothes shops and food shopping made up the remainder of the most popular sites.
The survey, which questioned 19,000 people in 15 leading economies, also found that just over half use a laptop, a fifth use a smartphone and one in 10 shop on a tablet.

WorldPay chief product officer Philip McGriskin said: 'eCommerce is growing at a rapid pace. Whilst there are variants between consumer shopping habits globally, in general shoppers are turning online to shop.'

Those who prefer not to buy over the net might be interested to know that two in five people said they, or someone they knew, had been directly affected by online fraud. The good news is that more than 50 per cent thought online shopping was more secure than it was a year ago.

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8.05pm - the nation's favourite time to shop online originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> e shoppingEShoppingonline retailonline shoppingOnlineRetailOnlineShopping SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:22:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Supermarket pricing tricks]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/25/supermarket-pricing-tricks/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/25/supermarket-pricing-tricks/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/25/supermarket-pricing-tricks/#comments
supermarket price tricks

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Here are some of the supermarket pricing tricks it's worth keeping a beady, bargain-hunting eye on.

BOGOFs - bargain or bogus?
Shopping list or no shopping list, by the time most of us have hit the fruit and veg, we're already being bombarded with 'buy one, get one free' offers and enticed by the promise of a bargain. Don't be fooled.

First of all, think about whether you need it. If you're not going to get through 2kg of courgettes before the use-by date, then you're literally throwing money away. Take advantage of BOGOFs, by all means, but stick to non-perishables like toiletries or toilet roll that will inevitably get used eventually... and stock up.

Multi-buy mayhem
There's more supermarket sliight of hand to be seen in those all-too-tempting multi-buy deals, or 'multi-buy non-deals' as the BBC's Panorama labelled them following their investigation in December 2011.

The brightly-coloured shelf-edge labels boldly state that bargains are there for the taking with 'two for £2' and the like littering the aisles. However, check the single item price (if displayed) and you'll often find that there's no saving to be had. In some cases, you'll even end up paying more.

To bulk buy or not to bulk buy?
It is now so ingrained in our minds that more means cheaper that we often opt for a bulk-buy without thinking. The more you buy, the better the value, right? Not always. Those 'big value packs' aren't necessarily the good deal they appear to be. In fact, in many cases you can buy the same amount more cheaply if you buy the smaller size. Always check the weight and compare against the smaller version of the same product if you're confronted with this seemingly fabulous offer.

Weigh things up
The great thing about supermarkets is that they are so convenient. Take the fruit and veg aisle, for instance. No need to bother with those fiddly plastic bags when there are so many pre-packed options available. In reality, you'll almost always find yourself paying more for the cellophane-wrapped variety. They are all too often priced per pack without revealing the weight of that pack. If in doubt, buy loose.

Look beyond eye-level
Supermarkets place the goods they want you to buy at eye level - as studies show most of us take goods from eye level. The products that are heavily promoted will have an aisle-end spot at eye level - as well as an aisle facing. The offer may look good at first glance but take the time to look on the top or bottom shelf and you may well find a similar product that works out to be a lot cheaper.

The new, old price
The big four supermarkets have another cunning price trick up their sleeves. Call it what you like, Price Drop, Rollback, the truth is most of us are being duped.

The supermarkets love nothing more than to tell us they have 'slashed their prices'. What they often fail to mention is that they bumped the prices up first. One example was highlighted by Panorama's investigation last year. Supermarket giant Tesco boasted that a medium, fresh chicken would be available at the bargain-basement price of £4 as part of its Big Price Drop. However, two months earlier, they increased the price of a medium, fresh chicken from £4 to £5.

The practice is perfectly legal, provided the higher price is in place for at least 28 days. Clearly though, it pays to pay attention.

What do you think? Have you been lured by supermarket pricing tricks or have you wised up? Leave a comment below...

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Supermarket pricing tricks originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> fair tradingFairTradingprice fixingprice matchingPriceFixingPriceMatchingsupermarket dealssupermarket offerssupermarket pricingsupermarket pricing tricksSupermarketDealsSupermarketOffersSupermarketPricingSupermarketPricingTrickstrading lawstrading standardsTradingLawsTradingStandards SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Choosing a child car seat]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/24/choosing-a-child-car-seat/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/24/choosing-a-child-car-seat/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/24/choosing-a-child-car-seat/#comments
choosing a child car seat

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Just as cars have become safer and safer over time, so too have child cars seats but there are many things to consider when choosing the right one. Here are a few of the essentials you need to know.

Know your stuff

Your child's weight is the first consideration when it comes to buying a car seat.

There are five main weight categories as follows:

Group 0: 0-10kg. For new babies to roughly 11 months for boys or 14 months for girls.

Group 0+: 0-13kg. Newborns through to about 15 months.

Group 1: 9-18kg. For children from nine months to four-and-a-half years old.

Group 2: 15-25kg. From three years to seven years.

Group 3: 22-36kg. From six years to twelve years.

The age ranges given are approximate. It is the weight that counts. Some seats cover the whole weight range but the safest option is to change the seat as the child grows, but make sure that your child never exceeds the weight limit specified for your chosen seat.

Though most children will exceed the weight limit before they grow too tall for the seat, but if your child's head is higher than the top of the seat or their eyeline is level with the top, it's time to change.

Types of seats

Rear-facing seats
Many parents opt for a rear-facing seat for their new baby as they provide greater protection for the little one's head, neck and spine. For that reason, it is worth keeping your child in a rear-facing seat for as long as possible. Though they can be used in both the front and the rear of the car, the back seat is the safer option. Never put a rear-facing seat in the front passenger seat where there is a passenger airbag.

Isofix seats
The Isofix mounting system, which is standard for all new cars and seat manufacturers, is designed to make installation quick, easy and secure. Simply plugging the seat into the fixing points within the car means you won't need to use the adult seatbelt to secure the child, while an integral harness will keep them safe.

The majority of cars made since 2002 have two fixing points at the base of the seat but some newer models may also include a third fixing point, positioned behind the rear seat. This ensures the seat will not tip forward in a crash. Others will include a support leg to prevent the seat from tipping but it is worth noting that cars these are not suitable where the car has underfloor storage.

Seatbelt secured
Don't worry if your car does not have the Isofix system. There are many excellent seatbelt-secured seats but if you choose this option it is essential to check the seat in the car.

Booster seats
As your child grows, you may need to move to a booster seat or cushion. Most modern booster seats are designed for children weighing between 15kg and 36kg. These do not include an integral harness. The adult seat belt is used to secure the child and, for this reason, proper fit is of paramount importance.

As a guide, the belt should fit as tightly as possible, with the lap belt over the pelvic region and not the stomach, and the diagonal strap resting over the shoulder and not the neck.

Booster cushions, where there is no side or back, are also available but those with backs and, in some cases, side wings, may offer better protection.


Buying the seat
Armed with a good idea of what you want, it's time to head to the shops. Many retailers, including Halfords, Mothercare and Toys R Us, offer a seat fitting service, so do ask a member of staff to help you check the seat in situ. They should have received child seat training and be able to help if you are unsure which seat will fit your car.

Some stores have an in-store rig that you can try your child in and that will allow you to see how the seat fits and adjusts. However, there is no better way to find the right seat than to try it in the car. This will enable you to ask the assistant any questions you may have regarding installation, fitting and adjusting. Where this is not possible, make sure that you can return the seat if there are any problems.

Whatever seat you buy, check that it meets the United Nations standard Regulation 44.03 or 44.04. An 'E' mark will tell you whether or not it meets the regulations.

Lastly, do not be tempted to buy a second-hand seat. It may be an older version that does not meet current standards, or have been in an accident that has weakened it.

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Choosing a child car seat originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> baby car seatsBabyCarSeatsbooster cushionsbooster seatsBoosterCushionsBoosterSeatschild car safetychild car seatsChildCarSafetyChildCarSeatschoosing a child car seatChoosingAChildCarSeatisofix seatsIsofixSeatsrear-facing car seatsRear-facingCarSeats SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Tue, 24 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[WeightWatchers hits the high street]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/24/weightwatchers-hits-the-high-street/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/24/weightwatchers-hits-the-high-street/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/24/weightwatchers-hits-the-high-street/#comments
Woman with tape measure around waist

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Slimming groups, usually held in community centres and church halls, will continue to be held in the evening, with the high street stores offering weight loss consultations and slimming products for those who want some dieting support during the day.

The stores will offer slimming services and products including 'grab and go' meals based on the WeightWatchers Points system.

The Lifestyle centres will also offer personal consultations, including 'express weigh-ins', to help dieters stick to the weight loss plan - a first for the dieting chain.

The first centre in Reading is offering 150 food products and meal plans - allowing shoppers, busy mums and office workers to pop in and grab a WeightWatchers counted lunch.

Spokesman Chris Stirk said: "The centre will offer a more personalised and flexible service for busy people like working mums and office workers who can pop in when they have time.

"With many of us working longer hours and demanding a more personalised, flexible service, we continue to adapt and enhance our products and services to meet the needs of the community."

The next stores will open in London, Birmingham and possibly Leeds.

Have you tried WeightWatchers? Leave a comment below...

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WeightWatchers hits the high street originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 04:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> diet planlose weightPoints systemweight lossWeightWatchers SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Tue, 24 Apr 2012 04:56:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Asthma: The basics]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/23/asthma-the-basics/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/23/asthma-the-basics/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/23/asthma-the-basics/#comments
asthma

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Though there is no cure, the majority of asthma sufferers are able to control the condition successfully thanks to a variety of treatments. If you or your child suffers from asthma, here's what you need to know.

About asthma
Caused by inflammation of the bronchi, the airways that carry air to and from the lungs, asthma occurs when the bronchi are irritated. This causes the walls of the airways to tighten and narrow while the lining becomes inflamed and swollen, usually leading to breathing difficulties. In some instances, a build up of phlegm can further exacerbate the problem.

Where the symptoms are severe, the resulting asthma attack, or acute asthma exacerbation as it is also known, can sometimes require hospital treatment and, in very severe cases, become life-threatening. Those who suffer chronic, or long-term, asthma, may experience a more permanent narrowing of the airways.

Research has found that one in 12 adults are sufferers, while one in 11 children is diagnosed with the condition. Though the exact cause is unknown, experts believe asthma may often run in the family.

However, the symptoms may come and go. Those diagnosed as a child often find their symptoms ease or disappear during their teenage years but it should be noted that the condition can develop at any age.

Asthma triggers
The irritation of the airways that causes the symptoms of asthma varies greatly from person to person. Dust mites, animal fur, pollen and smoke are all known to trigger or exacerbate the symptoms, while for some, a chest infection, exercise or even exposure to certain weather conditions such cold air or a humid day can bring on an attack.

Some sufferers may find that the kinds of chemicals used in cleaning products can trigger their symptoms, while others can react badly to anti-inflammatories such as aspirin and ibuprofen.

Diagnosis and treatment
If you suspect you or your child may have developed asthma, your first port of call should be your GP. The doctor will likely ask about your symptoms, both what they are and how often you experience them, and will want to know about any medication you are taking as well details of your work or home life. This is simply to help them identify any possible triggers.

If your GP believes that asthma may be the cause of your problem, they may ask you to perform a very simple test, commonly the peak expiratory flow rate test. This involves a hand-held peak flow meter than measures how fast you can blow air out of your lungs. Some potential sufferers may need further tests but in most cases the peak flow test is enough to determine whether the airways are affected by asthma.

Once diagnosed, many asthma sufferers find their everyday lives are largely unaffected given some simple medication. A preventer inhaler (usually brown, red or orange) is often recommended daily to help reduce inflammation over time. A reliever inhaler (commonly blue) is usually prescribed also. These work by relaxing the muscles around the airways making breathing easier. They should be used only when necessary, however, and if you find yourself needing to use the reliever inhaler three or more times a week, your treatment should be reviewed.

Where symptoms fail to respond to the above treatments, a long-acting reliever may be prescribed, to be used in combination with the preventer inhaler. In some cases, tablets may be necessary to reduce the inflammation of the airways or relax the muscles around them. On occasion, for example when a chest infection has taken hold, oral steroids may be necessary but a course will usually last only one or two weeks. Asthma sufferers should always take advantage of the annual flu jab, which should be offered by your GP.

Asthma attacks
An asthma attack can be a frightening experience that causes the suffer to panic due to the inability to catch a breath. Should you feel an attack coming on, the charity Asthma UK advises taking one or two puffs of your reliever inhaler and attempting to take slow, steady breaths while seated. Should the symptoms continue, continue to take one puff on the reliever inhaler every two minutes, up to 10 puffs. If the symptoms are still not alleviated, dial 999 or, if a friend or family member is nearby to help, go straight to A&E. A visit to your GP within 48 hours of the attack is advisable. A free 'What to do in an asthma attack' card is available from www.asthma.org.uk and contain basic information on what steps to take. It is ideal for child sufferers as it will enable teachers or nursery carers to recognise and deal with an attack.

Lastly, never ignore any worsening of your symptoms. If in doubt, see your doctor for a review of your treatment.

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Asthma: The basics originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> asthmaasthma attackasthma symptomsasthma treatmentsAsthmaAttackAsthmaSymptomsAsthmaTreatments SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Strong pound means better value holidays]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/23/strong-pound-means-better-value-holidays/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/23/strong-pound-means-better-value-holidays/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/23/strong-pound-means-better-value-holidays/#comments
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The pound is stronger than many currencies this year, particularly the Euro, which means your holiday money will go further. If you opt to visit Turkey, you'll find that sterling buys 14 per cent more Turkish lira than last summer, but it's Bulgaria that may offer the best all-round value.

According to the annual Post Office Travel Money study, which added up the cost of the average 'shopping basket' of 10 purchases, such as food, alcohol and sun cream, the cheapest destination was Bulgaria. There, a three-course meal for two with a bottle of house vino costs £23.70.

However, some places, such as Portugal, Spain and Greece, aren't expected to offer better value for money due to rising resort prices.

Compared to last year, a basket of shopping in Bulgaria, including a meal out for two, comes to £42.79 - four per cent less than last year. In Turkey, it comes to £54.22, 22 per cent less than it cost 12 months ago.

The third cheapest option is Portugal at £54.46, which although offering good value, is actually 10 per cent more expensive than a year ago. The same goods and a meal out in Spain costs £56.84, an increase of 35 per cent compared to a year ago.

Back in Blightly, Brighton is the most expensive place to spend your summer holidays according to the study. There the same meal out and basket of shopping will set you back £79.25. In Florida's most popular resort, Orlando, the basket comes in at £69.41.

Where are you planning to holiday this summer? Leave a comment below...

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Strong pound means better value holidays originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 05:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> Currency exchange ratesCurrencyExchangeRatesEuroEuro holidaysEuroHolidaysgreeceholiday destinationsHolidayDestinationsspainturkey SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Mon, 23 Apr 2012 05:19:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Depression awareness week]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/20/depression-awareness-week/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/20/depression-awareness-week/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/20/depression-awareness-week/#comments


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If you are concerned either for yourself or someone you know, here are the key symptoms to look out for and what you can do to get help.

Common symptoms of depression
Depression affects different people in different ways but there are several common symptoms that could point to a need for help.

Tiredness and a lack of energy, loss of self-confidence and feelings of worthlessness as well as persistent sadness are often experienced by sufferers. Difficulty concentrating or functioning at work or school may indicate a problem while trouble sleeping, loss of appetite and a lack of sex drive are also signs, while some may develop physical symptoms such as aches and pains. For others, depression may lead to thoughts of suicide and death or even self harm.

Though many of us will have experienced one or more of these symptoms at various times, the Depression Alliance advises that if you have experienced four or more of the above for much of the day and for over two weeks, it is time to seek help and advice.

Getting help
There are now a variety of treatments for depression available and what works for one person may not for another. The first step to getting help is to tell someone how you feel. It may begin with talking to someone you know, a close family member or friend, or you may find it easier to talk to someone who has no connection to you. Helplines such as the Samaritans (08457 909090) or Saneline (0845 767 8000) can offer advice, support or even just a sympathetic ear.

Alternatively you may prefer to discuss the problem with your GP, who can then prescribe medication or refer to you counselling services or support groups in your local area.

Excellent online resources are also available at www.depressionalliance.org and www.mind.org.uk, both of which provide information and advice on how to cope.

From 22nd to 28th April this year, the Depression Alliance will be organising a series of fund-raising events as part of Depression Awareness Week in a bid to raise public awareness of the serious issues faced by those living with depression, thereby helping to end the stigma associated with the problem.

If you would like to get involved, organise your own event or tell your story, visit www.depressionalliance.org for more information.

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Depression awareness week originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> antidepressantsanxietydepresseddepressionmental healthMentalHealthmindsymptoms SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Stacey King) Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Late spring gardening]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/19/late-spring-gardening/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/19/late-spring-gardening/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/19/late-spring-gardening/#comments
Gardening gloves, plants, boots
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Out with the old, in with the new
Spring-flowering bulbs are most likely long past their best and now is the time to deadhead the larger plants. Do not remove the foliage - simply allow it to die back. A fertiliser boost will ensure healthy blooms for the following year.

Meanwhile the seedlings you have so lovingly nurtured will soon be ready to transplant. These tender young plants require hardening off before they are fully prepared for life outdoors so be sure to expose them gradually to the elements. Once they are ready and any spring frosts have passed, it's time to transplant them, protecting them from the wind to give them the best chance.

For seeds that have not succeeded, May is the perfect time to pay a visit to the garden centre for flats of young plants that will give your garden an instant burst of colour.

Planting and pruning
With May on the way, it's already time to get planting. Mix the soil with some of the well-rotted compost from the bottom of the pile to add nutrients, particularly where you are planting seeds and add mulch to flower beds, shrubs and trees.

Trees and shrubs will need plenty of time to bed in before summer, while spring greens and flowers such as pansies, marigolds, verbena and asters can all be direct sown. Existing fruit trees will need pruning during April while perennials such as chrysanthemums and delphinium should be divided.

As the mild May weather begins, get those dahlias in and stake now to avoid damaging the roots later. Similarly, tall blooms such as delphinium, hollyhocs, foxglove and gladioli will all benefit from stakes at this time of year to ensure they stay upright throughout the summer.

House plants will also benefit from re-potting. Remove them from their winter pots in April and check for those that are root bound. Those that are should be housed in larger pots with some fresh soil. By May most indoor plants can be re-potted and placed outdoors to soak up some of the summer sun. With partial sunlight, increased watering and a healthy dose of fertiliser they should flourish.

Lush lawns
The April showers will no doubt have given your grass a new lease of life but don't be too hasty with the lawnmower. Begin by mowing high to allow the fresh grass to become established.

Pest control
Keep a beady eye out for pests as the spring begins to warm up. Shrubs and plants are susceptible to all sorts of insects and disease at this time of year so treat them now (be eco-friendly if at all possible).

Last but not least, don't leave the weeding for another day. Get rid of as much as you can to avoid being overrun come summer.

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Late spring gardening originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> digginggardengardeninggrowinglatespadespringtoolsvegetables SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Stacey King) Thu, 19 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA['Tap and go' payments to turn mobiles into 'digital wallets']]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/19/mobile-phone-contactless-payment-system/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/19/mobile-phone-contactless-payment-system/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/19/mobile-phone-contactless-payment-system/#comments
contactless payment system launched

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With the use of a smart card or PayTag, stuck to the back of any handset, shoppers will now be able to make purchases of up to £15 with their mobiles, and it could mean small cash payments soon become a thing of the past.

The PayTag contains a microchip which is able to communicate directly with specially adapted till terminals, confirming the customer's credit card account and authorising payment without the need to enter a PIN number.

Where previously only the latest high-tech smartphones could be used for such payments, this new system means non-gadget geeks can also take advantage of contactless technology, and Barclaycard insist it comes with 100 per cent fraud protection.

David Chan, chief executive of Barclaycard Consumer Europe, said: "More than half of us say that the item we're most lost without is our mobile phone, so we're giving people the option of using them to make easy, convenient, everyday payments."

With all mobiles now capable of adapting to 'tap and go' tech and an ever-growing number of retailers introducing contactless systems, Waitrose, McDonald's and Tesco to name a few, industry experts predict it won't be long before shoppers can do without their wallet.

Carl Scheible, managing direct of PayPal UK, told the Daily Mail: "By 2016, you'll be able to leave your wallet at home and use your mobile as the 21st century digital wallet."

What do you think? Will you be leaving your cash at home and opting for contactless technology? Leave your comments below...

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'Tap and go' payments to turn mobiles into 'digital wallets' originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 03:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> contactless paymentsContactlessPaymentsmobile phone paymentsmobile phonesMobilePhonePaymentsMobilePhonessmartphonestap and go paymentsTapAndGoPayments SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Thu, 19 Apr 2012 03:14:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[May Bank Holiday ideas]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/18/may-bank-holiday-ideas/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/18/may-bank-holiday-ideas/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/18/may-bank-holiday-ideas/#comments


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However, with the Easter holidays only recently past and another bank holiday fast approaching, it's possible that ideas for things to do could be thin on the ground.

Never fear! From May 5 through to May 7, events, festivals and fun days out are in abundance so get your warm weather gear ready and take a look at just a few of the activities the UK has to offer.

Festival fun
Across the country there will be music, art, food and more traditional May Day events to keep you entertained throughout the bank holiday.

On the music front, Aberdeen hosts its new festival, The Big Beach Ball, at the Beach Promenade on Sunday May 6. Tickets are priced at £24.50 and the festival promises a mix of indoor and outdoor fun.

Alternatively music fans can take in some of Manchester's finest new bands at the Sounds from the Other City festival. Check out the city's up-and-coming musicians on Sunday May 6 in Salford. Tickets cost £18.

Those with a taste for all things arty should head down south for the start of the 46th Brighton Festival, which runs from Saturday May 5 through to Sunday May 27. Music, dance, visual arts and theatre are all on offer and there is also plenty to keep the kids entertained.

Foodies will no doubt descend on the glorious setting of Hampton Court Palace for the Food Festival. This celebration of all things gourmet runs throughout the bank holiday weekend.

For a more traditional May Day weekend, try Mayfest on the Isle of Wight. Maypole dancing, Morris Dancing, live music, games, stalls, ale and cider, it's a great way to celebrate the start of summer in traditional British fashion... and best of all it's free.

Countryside or seaside
Countryside lovers and walkers should make the most of this wonderful time of year. The bluebells will be in full flower and a woodland walk provides the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy some fresh air amidst Britain's wildlife. Breathtaking carpets of blue can be seen at Blakes Wood in Essex, 106 acres of ancient woodland, Blickling in Norfolk, where the wilderness garden and woodland of the park are renowned for their beautiful display, and Lanhydrock in Cornwall, where the Great Wood and Avenue Walk is famed for its carpet of spring colour.

Further north, Hardcastle Crags in Yorkshire bursts into life with a wonderful display near Hebden Bridge, while visitors to Calke Park and Abbey in Derbyshire can explore 600 acres of parkland, marvelling at the flora within this National Nature Reserve.

If countryside walks aren't your thing though, why not take the whole family for a day out at the beach? Granted some fine, warm weather Britain has some fine beaches. Try Saunton Sands in North Devon, Walberswick in Suffolk, beautiful Bamburgh in Northumberland or the National Trust-managed Marloes Sands in Pembrokeshire, Wales, where the water is crystal clear.

Adrenaline junkies
If you're more about action and adrenaline than relaxing countryside walks, the UK has plenty to offer. For rollercoaster addicts, Thorpe Park in Surrey, Alton Towers in Staffordshire and Blackpool Pleasure Beach offer thrills galore.

Beach bums can get their hearts pumping by catching a few waves at Croyde Bay in North Devon, where things are a little less crowded than at Newquay in Cornwall, or, if you're an experienced surfer looking for more of a challenge, try Three Peaks at North Gower in Wales.

Alternatively for a fun, family day out, book yourself a Tree Top Adventure, courtesy of GoApe. Available at locations up and down the country, you'll be swinging, climbing and zip-lining through the forest and varying levels of difficulty mean there's something for every member of the family.

Of course, some of you may prefer to escape the UK for a few days and with Europe just a short hop across the Channel, you can enjoy a city break in France, Belgium, The Netherlands and beyond. Paris in the springtime, anyone?

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May Bank Holiday ideas originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> amusementbankbeacheseventsfestivalsholidaymayparksspring SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Stacey King) Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Positivity 'may reduce heart attack risk']]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/18/positive-outlook-heart-attack-stroke/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/18/positive-outlook-heart-attack-stroke/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/18/positive-outlook-heart-attack-stroke/#comments
positivity may reduce heart attack risk

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The major review of 200 separate research studies by a team at Harvard School of Public Health in the US, suggested that positivity and the ability to enjoy life's simple pleasures may keep your heart in good health.

Each of the studies examined explored the link between cardiovascular health and psychological wellbeing. Some measured the subjects' life satisfaction and how often they experienced feelings of pleasure, others sought to measure participants' zest for life and outlook for the future.

Researchers found that a little optimism could go a long way to keeping you in good health. Those with a sunny disposition were more likely to lead healthy lives, were better equipped to cope with stress and recovered from illness more quickly than their pessimistic counterparts. In many cases the risk of cardiovascular disease was reduced by around 50 per cent in patients with an optimistic outlook.

Even those who led a less than healthy lifestyle were found to have a reduced risk of heart disease if they remained happy and positive, their vitality reducing their risk by 28 per cent.

Lead author Julia Boehm said: "The absence of the negative is not the same thing as the presence of the positive. We found that factors such as optimism, life satisfaction and happiness are associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease regardless of such factors as a person's age, socioeconomic status, smoking status or body weight."

Senior author and associate professor of society, human development and health at Harvard, Laura Kubzansky suggested the findings may have implications for the prevention and treatment of heart disease.

She said: "These finding suggest that an emphasis on bolstering psychological strengths rather than simply mitigating psychological deficits may improve cardiovascular health."

What do you think? Can a sunny disposition really keep you healthy? Leave your comments below...

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Positivity 'may reduce heart attack risk' originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 04:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> depressionhealthheart attack symptomsheart diseaseheart healthHeartAttackSymptomsHeartDiseaseHeartHealthstressstrokestroke symptomsStrokeSymptoms SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Wed, 18 Apr 2012 04:22:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[Grooming tips for men]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/17/grooming-for-men/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/17/grooming-for-men/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/17/grooming-for-men/#comments
Man shaving

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However, you don't have be a metrosexual man to take good care of yourself. Here are a few grooming ideas to keep you looking tip-top and hot.

A close shave
Unless you're going for the George Clooney look, a close shave is a must for a night out. As tempting, or necessary, as it may be, a quick shave rarely gives the best results so take your time and avoid unsightly nicks. Be sure to wash your face first, avoiding potentially irritating exfoliating scrubs, as shaving without a wash will trap dirt in the pores, resulting in lumps, bumps and blemishes.

Although it may not cut quite so close, shaving with the grain is the best way. If you struggle to get a really close cut, try straight after a shower as the steam will open the pores and lift and soften the hairs making them easier to cut. A preshave lotion will help moisturise the skin and ensure a good finish.

Facial hair should be just as well groomed as the hair on your head - keep it clean and trimmed. Unruly stray hairs that simply refuse to conform can be licked into shape with a little hairspray. Simply spray a small amount onto your hand and gently smooth over the offending follicle.

Potions and lotions
Post-shave moisturising is a must to retain smooth, supple skin and for many men, an aftershave gel or lotion is enough to keep it that way. However, if you suffer from dry skin it may be worth investing in a hydrating moisturiser that can be applied in the evening.

Do remember, however, that a man's skin is naturally oilier than a woman's, leaving it susceptible to enlarged pores and blemishes. An exfoliator can help to eliminate impurities, while a lightweight, oil-free cream that's easily absorbed will give your skin a little extra hydration. Avoid using shower gel on your face - most are far too harsh.

Hair today, gone tomorrow
The hair on your head might look fabulous but your latest do can easily be ruined by unsightly follicles elsewhere. Make sure the hair on the back of your neck is neat and tidy for a well-groomed look and keep a close check on stray nose and ear hairs.

The monobrow is a problem that affects many. If two have become one and you're uncomfortable with the look, use a tweezer to pluck out the central hairs one by one. It's time consuming, certainly, and it may not be the most pleasant sensation but it's a simple, at-home solution. However, there is no need to go the whole hog with a feminine, shaped eyebrow (unless, of course, you want to). Trimming long or unruly hairs will keep things looking tidy whilst retaining a manly brow.

No more nails
It's tricky for all you guitarists out there, we know, but long finger nails are rarely attractive on guys. Keep them neatly trimmed, use a nail scrubber to remove unsightly under-nail dirt and use an emery board to prevent them from becoming too thick and hard.

Less is more
Finally, if you're out to impress, don't be tempted to lather on the cologne. Whatever your chosen scent, less is more is most definitely the rule. Using the same brand for shower gel, deodorant and scent will layer the fragrance without combining into a dizzying mix of aromas.

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Grooming tips for men originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> brushcutthroatgroomingmalemenrazorrazorsshaveshaving SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Stacey King) Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST AOL Hot Searches <![CDATA[iPad Mini on the way?]]> http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/17/ipad-mini-on-the-way/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/17/ipad-mini-on-the-way/ http://hotsearch.aol.co.uk/2012/04/17/ipad-mini-on-the-way/#comments
Apple ipad

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Reports that the mid-sized tablet will be the next weapon in Apple's considerable arsenal first appeared in China, where web portal NetEase claims to have inside knowledge of the East Asian companies that manufacture Apple products.

The site claims that the smaller version of the iPad may be ready to launch as early as the autumn and, according to msnbc.com, would cost between $249 and $299.

Similar reports from a Japanese technology site last month suggested Apple have been working on a device with a 5-inch screen, half the size of the existing iPad but with the same high resolution.

That would put the smaller gadget in direct competition with the already highly successful Samsung Galaxy Note, a mobile phone that boasts a 5.3-inch screen, and the Kindle Fire, which at seven inches is still smaller than the iPad.

However, it is not yet known whether Apple's rumoured mid-size device will function as a phone or simply as a handier tablet PC.

What do you think? Would you invest in an iPad Mini? Leave your comments below...

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iPad Mini on the way? originally appeared on AOL Hot Searches on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 04:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]> apple ipadAppleIpadgalaxy noteGalaxyNoteipadipad2kindle fireKindleFiretablet pcsTabletPcs SUPPORT@WEBLOGSINC.COM (Caroline Cassidy) Tue, 17 Apr 2012 04:59:00 EST AOL Hot Searches