Stromma Pizza Cruise, Amsterdam

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They really do say that there is no better way to see Amsterdam than from a canal cruise. For those that don't know Amsterdam has 3 main canals but the city actually has over 160 in total. We knew before we booked our trip to Amsterdam that we wanted to do a canal cruise but we wanted to make sure that we chose one that was a family friendly Amsterdam Canal Cruise. After lots of research we found Stromma who organise a variety of sightseeing and tourist attraction excursions. We chose the Pizza Cruise Amsterdam and it was perfect. 

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Hard Rock Cafe, Amsterdam

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Disclosure - We were invited to Hard Rock Cafe, Amsterdam. All thoughts, opinions and photographs are our own. 

We love to travel, it's one of our favourite things to do however when I am planning a trip away I always worry about dining out. Little J and I can be fussy so I always need to make sure there are restaurants that suit our needs. When planning our trip to Amsterdam one of the first things we noticed was there was a Hard Rock Cafe. It was no surprise as they are everywhere, we even spotted one in Nice when we visited last year. Little J loves the Hard Rock Cafe and even more so since the introduced the kids Messi Menu at Hard Rock Cafe. 

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Messi Kids Menu At Hard Rock Cafe

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Disclosure - We were invited to Hard Rock Cafe to sample the Messi Kids Menu. All thoughts, opinions and photographs are our own. 

We love going out for food as a family and whilst we have a few favourite restaurants we are always keen to try new restaurants especially if they have a special offer or a a new menu to try. Last weekend we headed to Manchester's Hard Rock Cafe for the first time so little J could sample the Messi Kids Menu. As we have never been to a Hard Rock Cafe before we didn't know what to expect but little J was beyond excited as soon as we mentioned the chance to sample a Messi burger. 

Hard Rock Cafe, The Printworks, Manchester, Manchester M4 2BS

Messi Kids Menu

Taste greatness with the NEW Messi Kids menu featuring the Messi X Burger and the Messi Golden Chicken Sandwich along with a complimentary mini golden football toy, a collectable poster & activity sheet with every meal!

The menu has so much choice available for kids and is designed for those 12 and under. The Messi Kids menu was separate to the main menu and gave little J the chance to browse the menu and pick his meal. There are 9 meals for children to choose from  not including plant based options. There is so much variety so even the fussiest of eaters should find something they like. 

The main two options are 

Messi’s X Burger

A burger topped with white cheddar cheese, garlic aioli and served with seasoned fries.

Messi’s Golden Chicken Sandwich

A crispy chicken fillet, topped with marinara, mozzarella cheese, garlic aioli and served with seasoned fries. 

Both looked amazing but if you don't fancy either of them you can head to the Headliners or Remix options.

Headliners

Bacon Cheeseburger

Hot Dog 

Chicken Tenders 

Mac & Cheese 

Remix

Chicken Breast

Grilled chicken breast served with vegetables

Twisted ‘N Tasty Cavatappi Pasta

Twisted cavatappi pasta topped with marinara sauce and served with vegetables

Grilled Chicken House Salad

Mixed fresh greens with diced chicken, Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses

Little J went for a Messi's Golden Chicken sandwich with fries and he was not disappointed. It was presented really well with a Messi flag stuck in the top of the burger and it looked delicious. 

The portion size was perfect for little J (he is 10) with just enough fries. If you would prefer another side other than fries you can choose fresh fruit, mashed potato or veggies.

The meal comes with a choice of soft drink and also the option to buy an 'Encore' of a hot fudge sundae for £1.75. You can also upgrade from a soft drink to milkshake also for £1.75. 

If that's not enough the menu also doubles as an activity sheet for the kids to complete while they wait and then opens in to a poster plus they can collect a mini football on the way out which was the best thing ever according to little J. 

The Messi Kids Menu is currently priced at £11.75 which includes meal, drink, activity sheet, poster and mini football. 

I think the collaboration between Hard Rock Cafe and Leo Messi is perfect for little ones who love football, Leo Messi or just great tasting food. 

As I said earlier we have never dined at a Hard Rock Cafe but I feel now that we really have missed out. Our closest is Manchester which opened in 2000 however Hard Rock Cafe's have been preparing world-famous legendary burgers, smokehouse specialities, flavourful Salads and mouth-watering desserts for a lot longer and they are all over the world. 

I usually get a feeling when entering a new restaurant and when we arrived we were all really impressed with the layout and the ambience. There was a lovely vibe and as it is open plan over 3 floors it's lovely and bright. What we didn't expect was the memorabilia. The memorabilia is displayed on the walls and there is so much to see. We could have spent all afternoon looking at all the different pieces. 

Although this was our first visit it definitely won't be our last. I would be keen to try out their holiday menu and also they have a lovely event of Breakfast with Santa too however I think little J wants to head back so he can try the Messi X Burger next.

Have you visited a Hard Rock Cafe before?

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Michelle

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Zaanse Schans Windmills - Everything You Need To Know

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When we decided that our next city break was going to be Amsterdam I knew I would like to plan a trip to see the windmills at Zaanse Schans. Lots of people said if you are visiting Amsterdam with the kids then you need to see the windmills so that's exactly what we did. It was easy to plan within our time at Amsterdam and we managed to go on a nice sunny day which made it even more magical. If you are thinking of visiting Zaanse Schans here are some tips to make the most out of your visit. 

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Everything You Need To Know About Visiting The A'DAM Lookout, Amsterdam

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When I was researching things to do with the kids in Amsterdam, A'DAM lookout looked like the perfect attraction for us and I was not wrong. One of Amsterdams popular tourist attractions for kids, A'DAM Lookout will give you panoramic views of Amsterdam from 100 metres in the air. 

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Visiting Tony's Chocolonely Superstore, Amsterdam

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When we visited Amsterdam one of the things we were looking forward to the most was visiting Tony's Chocolonely Superstore. When researching things to do with the kids in Amsterdam, Tony's Chocolonely Superstore came up and I had no idea what it was. We had never tried Tony's chocolate but the superstore looked fun so I planned it in to our visit. 

Tony's Chocolonely Superstore, Oudebrugsteeg 15, 1012 JN Amsterdam, Netherlands 

Tony's Chocolonely Superstore should definitely be on your list of things to do with the kids in Amsterdam. Even if you don't have kids and are just a lover of chocolate then you won't be disappointed.

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What To Pack For A School Ski Trip

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If your son or daughter gets the opportunity to go skiing with their primary or secondary school, it is such an amazing opportunity. Some children may already know how to ski whilst this may be the first time for others, either way this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for most and if possible not to be missed. However, as a parent we found it quite stressful, knowing exactly what to pack for a weeklong stay. 

The first thing you need to remember is when packing for any school trip is that your child will be responsible for carrying, lifting, pushing or pulling their suitcase or bag. Teachers unfortunately can't help every child with their luggage so it's down to each child. 

If your child is flying to their ski resort they will most likely only be allowed 15kg maximum. This is still heavy for little ones to carry. Also most hotels have lifts however we have found in the past that schools prefer the children to use the stairs while transporting their luggage so it's wise to have them practice on stairs at home lifting or pulling up their case. 

So bearing that in mind, it is quite difficult to know exactly what to pack for the ski trip. The school will give you some basic information on what the essentials they need, which I will speak about however, it’s the 'other' clothes and accessories that they may need on their trip that you don’t get much guidance on.

As a parent of a son who went skiing as a year 6 pupil, here is exactly what we packed but I have also added what you may also need for packing for a girl too.

We opted for a large holdall bag with wheels* which was recommended to us by a resort volunteer. Also we used packing cubes labelled with what was inside, which we found was so much easier for our son. We showed him exactly what was in each packing cube so he knew exactly what was where. 

For travelling our children where given a red jumper and were asked to wear their ski jacket so no need to pack this.

Also the teachers who were travelling with the children were in receipt of their

Passport

EHIC

Spending Money (€80)

In The Case

Ski Essentials 

1 pair of salopettes - these are recommended over ski trousers so they don't fall down.

2 x base layer tops

2 x base layer trousers 

1 x fleece 

2 x pairs of ski socks - ( 3 pairs if you are not requested to put a pair in their hand luggage).

1 x ski goggles - These must be of a high quality to protect their eyes.

1 x sun glasses - Again these must be of a high quality to protect their eyes.

1 x ski gloves

1 x hand warmer gloves - these go inside their ski gloves for extra warmth.

1 x suncream - preferably one that can be worn around the neck so they can reapply when on the slopes

1 x lipsalve - preferably one that can be worn around the neck so they can reapply when on the slopes.

1 x hat - a beanie style hat is preferred as needs to sit inside the helmet. 

1 x neck warmer - these are preferred to scarves.

Other Clothing 

3 x tracksuit bottoms or leggings - plus the pair they travel in.

7 x a mixture of short and long sleeve t-shirts - plus the top they travel in

2 x hoodies, jumpers or tracksuit tops - hotels are usually warm so no need to over pack.

10 x pairs of undies or knickers - 1 for each day plus a few spares.

10 x pairs of socks - 1 for each day plus a few spares.

2 x pyjamas

1 x slippers

Toiletries

Toothpaste

Toothbrush

Shower gel

Roll on deodorant

Brush

Hair bobbles and/or clips

Towel - the hotel our children went to did not provide towels

Hand Luggage - We chose a medium sized backpack

This will differ for everyone but our school wanted inside hand luggage

A packed breakfast - our meet time was 4:15am so they ate their breakfast at the airport

A packed lunch - this was so they could eat their lunch before leaving for the resort in Italy

£10 to buy drinks at the airport - as you can't take drinks through security

An empty sports bottle - There are water fountains in most airports

Activities to do on plane coach such as pencils/ paper/ colouring books/ top trumps

A hi vis vest that was given to us by the school

A large trolley bag such as a sports direct bag

A pair of ski socks - this was so they could go straight to their ski boot fitting once at the resort.

A small cuddly toy. Preferably not a teddy with huge sentimental value in case it gets lost but something that your child can cuddle or a nice reminder of home such as Palm Pals.

 

This all fitted neatly in his packing cubes and in his large holdall. It was heavy but he could manage it with some effort. 

I've popped a link to the Amazon Basics Packing Cubes*  we used and also Large Holdall With Wheels*

If there is anything I've missed off please feel free to message me and I'll include. If you have a child going on a ski trip I hope they enjoy it and make memories to last a lifetime!

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- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

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- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

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What To Expect From A VIP Tour Of Johan Cruijff Arena Stadium

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Visiting the home ground of a football team in the city you are visiting seems to be a very popular choice when planning a city break. When we were researching things to do with the kids in Amsterdam, Johan Cruijff Arena Stadium tour kept popping up and after googling tours available we decided it would be a nice day out and the chance to learn a little more about AFC Ajax.

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4 Ways To Make Your Shipping Packages Stand Out

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Disclosure - This is a collaborative post

As an e-commerce retailer, your product's packaging plays a crucial role in making a lasting impression on your consumers, fostering the creation of user-generated content, and enhancing your brand and reputation. Today, packaging is more than just a means to protect goods during transit; it is an integral part of an experience that can significantly benefit your brand and marketing presence.

But what makes a good packaging experience? If the aim of your packaging is to help you stand out, get featured in some creative unboxing videos, and make an impact upon delivery, then the following tips can help you do just that. The unique unboxing experience your packaging can create is not just about opening a box; it's about creating excitement and anticipation that consumers want to share with others.

Custom Boxes

Firstly, to make the right impact with your packaging, you need to make sure that the box or package you use fits the product and isn’t too big or too small. After all, its primary function is to desire safe and secure products from A to B without damage. Custom boxes allow you to pack orders in a box or bag that removes any excess space and reduces unnecessary fillers so they sit nicely within the space and are air-protected. Sending out small items in huge boxes is a big no-no and will result in the wrong kind of attention. Make sure to look into your options for your products and get packaging that is the perfect fit.

Dress It Up

The unboxing experience isn't about simply opening the box. These days, consumers who produce this type of content want to see something shareable they can make nice content from. This means making your box as attractive as possible and enticing others to want to snap pictures, film reels and more to share with their audience. Think about adding your branding to the packaging, adding inserts into boxes, or using online sticker printing services to create custom stickers with your logo or other message to secure wrapping. All of these little tweaks combined can help you to create packaging that screams to be captured and shared with others.

Use Sustainable Materials

One thing that's becoming increasingly clear, especially from online opinions, is that more people prefer sustainable packaging options. The last thing they want to see is excessive use of non-recyclable or non-reusable materials in their orders. Opting for recycled packaging for shipping orders, using biodegradable products for packing inserts, or reusable materials for other purposes can significantly enhance your eco credentials and meet consumer demand for more sustainable materials and less waste.

Personalise It

We've discussed making the parcel fit your brand by tailoring the box size and custom elements to create an unboxing experience, but another thing you can do is make it personalised for the customer. Using inserts with their name on them, a little thank you note, a note to offer a discount for their next order or a loyalty card can make the purchase more personalised to the customer and ensure they feel valued and will return to shop with you again. This can form part of the overall unboxing experience and still be extremely impactful on its own.

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

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FAQs About Hair Transplants: Everything You Need to Know

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Disclosure - This is a collaborative post 

Hair transplants are gaining traction as a widely recognised solution for different levels of hair loss. With the procedure's increasing appeal, many individuals find themselves curious about its mechanics, effectiveness, and what one should anticipate before, during, and after undergoing a transplant. This article aims to tackle the most common inquiries regarding hair transplants, offering a detailed guide for those contemplating this treatment option.

What is a Hair Transplant?

A hair transplant London is a surgical technique that transfers hair follicles from a part of the body (the 'donor site') to a balding or bald area, known as the 'recipient site.' This procedure is predominantly utilised to address male pattern baldness but is also versatile enough to restore hair in areas such as eyelashes, eyebrows, beard, chest, and even to cover scars from accidents or surgeries.

How Do Hair Transplants Work?

There are two main techniques for extracting and transplanting hair:

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT): This method involves removing a small strip of tissue from the back of the head, from which thousands of follicular units are extracted. The area is then stitched up, leaving a linear scar.

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): In FUE, individual hair follicles are directly extracted from the scalp using hundreds to thousands of tiny punch incisions. This method leaves no linear scar and is preferred by those who wear short haircuts.

Who Can Benefit from a Hair Transplant?

Hair transplants can benefit men and women with permanent baldness, typically resulting from genetics, age, or certain medical conditions. Candidates must have healthy hair growth at the back and sides of the head to serve as donor areas. A good candidate also has realistic expectations about what can be achieved with a transplant.

Are Hair Transplants Painful?

Most patients experience minimal or no pain during the procedure, thanks to the local anesthesia applied to the scalp. Any discomfort following the procedure is generally mild and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Some individuals may also feel a tight sensation in their scalp for a couple of days afterward.

How Long Does a Hair Transplant Last?

A hair transplant is considered a permanent solution to hair loss. The transplanted hair generally retains its own characteristics of growth and is not affected by the pattern of baldness. However, hair thinning may continue in other areas of your scalp, which could affect the overall appearance unless further transplants are conducted.

What is the Recovery Time?

This can vary; however, many people return to work within a few days following the surgery. Two-to-three weeks after the procedure, the transplanted hair will fall out, which is a normal and expected process. Visible growth in the transplanted areas typically begins after about three months. The final results are generally seen after a year.

Can Women Have Hair Transplants?

Yes, women can have hair transplants. While less common than in men, women with thinning hair or bald patches can benefit from hair transplant techniques.

What Should I Consider Before Deciding on a Hair Transplant?

It's crucial to have a consultation with a reputable hair restoration surgeon who can assess your hair loss pattern, discuss the best options for your case, and explain the realistic outcomes. Also, consider the financial investment and the potential need for future procedures if your hair loss continues.

Conclusion

A hair transplant can be a transformative procedure for those experiencing significant hair loss, offering a permanent solution that restores not only hair but also confidence and self-esteem. By understanding what the procedure involves, the expected outcomes, and the care required following the surgery, you can make a well-informed decision about whether it's the right path for you. Always consult with qualified professionals and consider all factors before proceeding with surgery.

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

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- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

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A Magical Experience: Reviewing Disney's Aladdin Musical Theatre Show

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Disclosure - We were invited to the press evening of Disney's Aladdin. All thoughts and opinions are our own. 

Being a massive Disney fan I have had the pleasure of growing up with timeless classics such as Beauty and The Beast, The Lion King and Mary Poppins. I have had the pleasure of watching these amazing tales being brought to life on stage in such a magical way like no other show. Last week I had the honour of visiting Manchester to see another Disney classic being transformed for the stage, Disney's Aladdin. From the opening scene I knew we were in for a magical and musical treat as the show  transported us into a world of magic, romance, and adventure.  

Aladdin is based on the beloved 1992 animated film. The stage adaptation brings to life the vibrant city of Agrabah, filled with captivating characters, stunning visuals, and unforgettable music. Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan or a newcomer to the story, Aladdin promises an evening of entertainment that you won't soon forget.

A Dazzling Production

From the moment the curtain rises, Aladdin captivates with its breathtaking production design. The set and costumes are a visual feast, rich in colour and detail, reflecting the exotic Agrabah. The bustling marketplace, and the mystical Cave of Wonders are brought to life with elaborate backdrops and innovative staging techniques. The use of special effects, including the iconic flying carpet scene, adds a layer of magic that feels truly Disney.

Unforgettable Performances

The cast of Aladdin shine with their exceptional performances. The title character, Aladdin, played by Gavin Adams is portrayed with a perfect blend of charm and vulnerability, making the audience root for his journey from street rat to prince. It's hard to believe that this is his professional debut! 

Jasmine, played by Desmonda Cathabel portrays the spirited princess well, she has a powerful presence on stage, her independence and strength making her a modern-day heroine.

However, it is the Genie who truly steals the show. Yeukayi Ushe has boundless energy and charisma and delivers a performance that is both hilarious and heartwarming. The Genie’s musical number, "Friend Like Me," is a showstopper, filled with impressive choreography, dazzling effects, and infectious energy that leaves the audience cheering. This scene is by far the best scene I have ever witnessed in a stage show. 

Iconic Music and New Additions

The musical retains the beloved songs from the original film, including "A Whole New World," "Prince Ali," and "Friend Like Me," all composed by the legendary Alan Menken. These timeless tunes are brought to life with full orchestral arrangements and powerful vocal performances. Additionally, the stage adaptation introduces new songs that seamlessly blend into the story, enriching the narrative and providing deeper insight into the characters' motivations and emotions.

One standout new song is "Proud of Your Boy," a touching ballad sung by Aladdin that reveals his longing for his late mother’s approval. This addition adds emotional depth to Aladdin’s character and resonates strongly with the audience.

Choreography and Direction

The choreography in Aladdin is a dazzling display of creativity and precision. Each dance number is meticulously crafted, blending traditional Middle Eastern dance styles with Broadway flair. The ensemble cast performs with infectious enthusiasm, their synchronised movements adding to the vibrant energy of the show.

Director and choreographer Casey Nicholaw masterfully balances the grand spectacle with intimate character moments, ensuring that the show is as emotionally engaging as it is visually stunning. His direction brings out the best in the cast, creating a seamless blend of humour, romance, and adventure.

A Family-Friendly Extravaganza

It was just John and I who went to see Aladdin however it is perfect for all the family as it offers something for everyone. The humour appeals to both children and adults, with clever jokes and witty references. The story's themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery are universal, resonating with audiences of all ages. The show’s pacing keeps young viewers engaged, while the rich storytelling and intricate production design captivate older theatre-goers.

Book Your Tickets Today

Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of Disney's Aladdin musical theatre show. Perfect for families, couples, and theatre enthusiasts, this production is a dazzling celebration of one of Disney's most beloved stories. Book your tickets today and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of Aladdin!

Manchester Palace Theatre

Wednesday 22 May – Sunday 7 July 2024

You Can Book Tickets Here

Bristol Hippodrome 

Wednesday 10th July – Sunday 11 August 2024

You Can Book Tickets Here

Bradford Alhambra Theatre 

Wednesday 14 August – Sunday 1 September 2024

You Can Book Tickets Here

Southampton Mayflower Theatre

Thursday 5 September – Sunday 29 September 2024

You Can Book Tickets Here

Birmingham Hippodrome 

Wednesday 9 October – Sunday 3 November 2024

You Can Book Tickets Here

Glasgow Theatre Royal 

Wednesday 6 November – Saturday 30 November 2024

You Can Book Tickets Here

Liverpool Empire

Wednesday 11 December 2024 – Friday 5 January 2025

You Can Book Tickets Here

A Must-See Theatrical Experience

Disney's Aladdin musical theatre show is a must-see for anyone who loves magical storytelling, stunning visuals, and memorable music. It captures the essence of the original film while adding new dimensions that enhance the overall experience. From the dazzling production design to the stellar performances, every element of the show contributes to an unforgettable night at the theatre. Whether you're reliving a childhood favourite or discovering Aladdin for the first time, this production promises to transport you to a whole new world of wonder and delight.

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- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

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- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

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- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

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