In Family Time

Islands in the Mediterranean

Author Nicki CawoodPosted on
Islands in the Mediterranean

2019 looks set to be a ridiculously busy year for us. We’re moving house, we have lots going on with work, school, other events booked in; do you blame me for looking for a holiday so we can all have a bit of a breather? With so many islands to choose from, deciding where to spend our time can become an almighty task. You have the Greek islands, along with Cyprus and Italian islands, too; all with their own perks and beauty. Which of these would you choose?

Cyprus

Cyprus has a special charm that infatuates hundreds of tourists, year after year. Dubbed in Greek legend as being the birthplace of Aphrodite, Cyprus is renowned for its stunning beaches, historical ruins, archaeological sites, and beautiful nature. Visit the Adonis Baths, the Paphos Mosaics and the Archaeological Museum in Limassol. For added luxury, stay at one of the beautiful Cyprus villa retreats located throughout the island.

Capri, Italy

If your holiday checklist comprises of beaches, sun, sea and idle sight-seeing, Capri is perfect for you. While here, you’ll be surrounded by a light-hearted atmosphere as well as tasteful shops and to-die-for gelato parlours. Be sure to enjoy a cocktail in the Piazzetta, or if you’re in need of a caffeine hit, enjoy a morning espresso.

For the best views, head to Giardini di Augusto’s terraces or the ruins of Villa Jovis. You should also witness Capri’s most famous sights – the Blue Grotto – and enjoy one of the many boat tours of the island.

Bozcaada Island, Turkey

After picturesque whitewashed houses, historical ruins and windmills? Do you want to unwind on a small beach and beautiful, rocky coves? This Turkish island is spectacular, to say the least, with its azure blue seas and vineyard. Walk the streets or take up a snorkel and swim with schools of fish in the Mermer Burnu.

Gozo, Malta

Visit Gozo and stay in one of the hilltop villages that offer sweeping seaside views. In your free time, explore the island’s watermelon fields and fig orchards, and take a hike long the cliffs of Dwejra and San Lawrenz. Snorkelling and diving are popular sports, especially within the Azure Window. Gozo does not shy away from its Christian roots, meaning you have many cathedrals, churches and chapels to explore, and the Citadel itself has many hidden gems for tourists to explore. Visit the graffiti ridden prison, the old medieval houses that are open to the public, and step foot in one of the many museums.

Hvar, Croatia

Croatia has grown in popularity the past few years, especially Dubrovnik, a well-known filming location for Game of Thrones. While Dubrovnik is a beautiful walled city, Hvar should also be on your list of places to visit.

The island has an abundance of vineyards, is surrounded by cobalt blue seas, and the Renaissance old town holds a breath-taking piazza. Streets are paved in marble, you’ll be spoilt for choice with monasteries, chapels and battlements, plus there’s a hike to the fortress that offers wonderful views. For late night luxurious dining, book a table at a quayside bar or at one of the rooftop restaurants. You’ll be surrounded by sparkling harbour lights as you enjoy a tasty meal. 

So Many Islands to Choose From

I’m torn! I’ve always wanted to go to Italy but think that Croatia would tick more of our boxes. The research is ongoing. If we’re going to do it, five star accommodation or something similarly swanky would really be the icing on the cake for me. Have you been to any of these places?

 

In Interior Design

Choose Engineered Wood Flooring

Author Nicki CawoodPosted on
Choose Engineered Wood Flooring

We’re moving house very soon, and this has reminded me of previous house moves and my attempts at making cheap and cheerful flooring look like a premium floor covering. I haven’t been able to achieve this look and to be honest I’m not sure that many people can. I believe that when it comes to flooring you need to choose something that is designed to offer a quality feel, finish and that will last. That is why this time I am choosing engineered wood flooring.

We’ve all done it, or at least considered it. We’ve looked at wooden effect lino, cheap and cheerful laminate and other perfectly fine flooring alternatives but if I’m being honest, they really haven’t done the job. We love period properties and are moving into our newest house to date soon, a 1930’s bungalow which has been sympathetically renovated and kept the original charm the original architect clearly worked hard to include. To put anything other than engineered wood flooring down would, quite frankly, be a crime!

Having the engineered wood flooring ticks all of our boxes, from affordability to a long-lasting, hard-wearing finish that looks and feels great.

What is Engineered Wood Flooring?

Engineered wood flooring is very cleverly put together layers of plywood which are expertly finished with a layer of high-quality real wood. Less wood, therefore, is used than the traditional wooden flooring, making it both cheaper than solid wood flooring and better for the environment. Basically, if you are looking for a solid wood floor but don’t want the associated costs, engineered wooden flooring could be just what you’ve been looking for.

Can You Use Engineered Wood Flooring Anywhere?

engineered wood flooring

Thanks to engineered wood flooring being a little hardier it can be used for the majority of rooms although is not suitable for high moisture rooms such as bathrooms. This is because the top wooden layer could be damaged by the water leading to expanding and swelling. To preserve a long-lasting finish we wouldn’t use that type of flooring in our shower room for example. For your lounge, dining rooms, offices, entrances, hallways and more this type of expertly engineered wooden flooring is the perfect solution.  

Installing Engineered Wood Flooring

When it comes to flooring that has the word “installed” attached I’ve always chickened out. I’m much more of a slap it down and hope for the best kinda girl. This might account for some of the dodgy finishes in the past! With engineered wood flooring it is apparently very easy to do it yourself, which means not having to employ someone to fit it. There’s a really good guide on how to fit engineered wooden flooring here.

In Summary

We can’t wait to move and put our stamp on the new property. Despite my lack of decorating skills and previous cowardice when it comes to painting and flooring, this time I’m determined to put the extra effort in, in order to enjoy a finish that really feels like home. Watch this space!

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