Car Maintenance Do's And Don'ts To Save You Money


Car maintenance needn't be difficult. There are some things that are easy to do and some things you shouldn't do, but did you know you can save money by doing simple tasks yourself? Here is my guide to saving big with easy car maintenance tips

Do check

Tyres

It's important to check your tyres on a regular basis. Look out for damage to the tyres, wear and tear and tread. The law requires car tyres to have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. As well as potentially being fined for having tyres under the legal limit and receiving 3 penalty points on your licence you put your life at risk if your tyres are bald. So buy a tyre gauge and every two weeks check your tyres and replace if need be. You can buy tyres online at sites like Iverson Tyres Ltd and have them delivered to your doorstep in just a few clicks so there is no excuse not to have good quality tyres on your car. 

Oil

Check the oil every two weeks. It's simple to do, just make sure your car engine is cold and your car is on a level surface.  If your car has a dipstick check out a reputable YouTube channel for a guide on how to measure the oil. If the car is newer it will have an electronic oil measure which makes it easier for you and will warn you if the level is low. Your car handbook should tell you the oil you need, and it's fairly easy to top it up yourself, so this is a good way to save money rather than having a garage do it for you.

Headlights

Check all your lights and indicators once a week to ensure that the bulbs are not blown, that the lights are not dirty or have cracks. If they do have damage replace them. If you have old, foggy lights that are discoloured then you can restore your headlights yourself. These are easy to do yourself and there are kits available to save time, cost and hassle. A headlight restoration kit can be a cost-effective purchase and your lights will be back to normal in no time. No tools or additional products are needed, just apply and your headlights will shine brightly again.

Windscreen wipers

Being able to see clearly through your windscreen is important for safe driving. The RAC says that 20% of accidents are caused by poor visibility so check your wipers every couple of weeks and replace your windscreen wipers once a year or if damaged.  It isn't hard to do. Remember extremes of temperature can make them deteriorate quicker too. 

Don't ignore

Ignore any warning lights

They are there for a reason, to alert you to potential problems so don't ignore warning lights. If they do come on, check your car handbook for what they mean to see if you can resolve the issue. If unsure always take your car to a garage to check it out for you. 

Forget breakdown cover

Companies like the AA, RAC and Green Flag offer yearly breakdown cover, and in my opinion, it's well worth the cost for peace of mind, especially if you are not knowledgeable about cars. Spending money on coverage here can save you money in the long run if you break down.

Forget service and MOT dates

The MOT checks that your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards and cars need an MOT after the third anniversary of its registration, and thereafter every year. MOT's can be carried out up to one month before the due date, so even if you are on holiday there is no excuse not to get your MOT completed. Make a note of the date in your diary and also note service dates.

So here are some car maintenance do's and don'ts to save you money. I hope you find them helpful. Do you have any tips for my readers?

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The Nature Lovers Guide To Visiting The USA

If you’re a nature lover, the United States is one of the best places for you to take a trip. Home to diverse landscapes and several sweeping national parks, the country has lots of interesting flora and fauna too - in one state you could be watching whales and in another be surrounded by opossum, an American marsupial.

Since there is so much choice in the United States, you’ll need to narrow it down before you choose the best location(s) for your visit. That’s why I've put together some of the best holiday destinations for nature lovers within the bounds of the U.S.

Virginia Range, Nevada

More than 50 per cent of the United States’ wild horse population live in Nevada, and you will find around 1,400 of them at Virginia Range. So, if you’re a real horse lover, you are doing to want to flock to the desert trail there where you stand an excellent chance of seeing them in all their glory. It truly is a sight to behold!

 Portland, Oregon

 Perhaps better known for being a hipster’s paradise, Portland has a lot to offer the average nature lover and is not a place to be dismissed. Why? Because there are countless activities and attractions which will help you commune with nature, the highlight of which has to be Mount Tabor, which is an absolute joy to hike. Then there's the Tryon Creek State Natural Area, which is great for spotting local wildlife, and the botanical gardens in Washington Park to consider. You’ll be literally spoilt for choice!

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee


 Pigeon Forge is an amazing mountain city that is more like a resort. Nestled in the rocks around 20 minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it provided the perfect place from which to explore the misty mountains, hike the 850 miles of rugged trails and enjoy time fishing, camping and listening to the coyotes howl. If you don’t see at least one bear and some wild boar, you’ll be very unlucky, and if you somehow manage to get bored of nature, Dollywood isn’t too far away either. The theme park by Dolly Parton, the country singer, is tacky, but it’s lots of fun too!

The Whole of Alaska

The state of Alaska is probably the best place for nature lovers looking to visit the USA to spend their time. Why? Because not only are there lots of opportunities for whale watching, bear spotting and reindeer racing, amongst many other cool Alaskan travel experiences it is possible to have, but you also get to enjoy the rugged beauty of this sometimes harsh state and, even better than that, there is a very good chance that you will get to see the Northern Lights too! If you really do love the beauty of nature, Alaska is sure to impress you.

Custer State Park, South Dakota


 Custer State Park is the place to go if you want to be guaranteed bison. It is also home to many bighorn sheep which you are likely to spot if you spend enough time there, and more excitingly white-tailed-deer and prairie dogs, which although more elusive, you may be lucky enough to see, especially if you’re good at tracking.

 San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands are located a short distance south of Vancouver Island, and they are the ideal place to watch whales due to the fact that Orcas live there all year long. Vist Orcas Island for the best sightings. There are also three additional pods, called the Southern Residents, but locals, which turn up in the spring and Autumn months. As well as whales there are lots of eagles, porpoise, sea lions and harbour seals to keep you entertained too. So if marine life is your thing, it is the place for you.

 Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana

The USA is home to no less than 58 national parks, each of them with something unique to offer, but if you want to have the most amazing time possible, you simply must travel to Yellowstone National Park which is brimming with bison, elk, moose and wolves. If you visit in June, you will get to see lots of really cute baby animals and beat the crowds. You’ll also get to enjoy relative peace as you hike, fish and watch the sun come up as you sleep under the sky. Bliss.

Visit any of these nature-packed destinations, and you will not be disappointed. You’ll also come home with lots of wonderful nature photos too - guaranteed!

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Stress Free Gardening Inspiration

Making your garden look exactly how you want it can be super tough. So many ideas that you may have won’t be practical in the long run, whereas things you’ve given no thought to, prove to be some of the best ideas. Getting it just right is a long and arduous process but so worth it when you do. Once you've got it the way you want it, it's also important to keep on top of it to make sure it stays that way - so here are a few ideas to keep your garden looking in tip-top shape and a place you are happy to entertain guests in.

Embrace change


There are plenty of things you need to consider when changing up your garden - whether you want paving or a lawn, a vegetable patch or some flowers. If you are a keen gardener, you will want to make sure you have all the items or products you need readily accessible and be able to venture out into your garden at any time to tend to your plants and seeds. If you are a gardener you need to embrace change as gardens are always evolving and changing with the season.

Get some lighting


Outdoor lighting is a great addition to any garden. Not only can you check on your plants in the evening if required (we all know that those common garden pests don’t just come out in the day, don’t we?), but it is perfect for those warm and balmy evenings when you may be entertaining guests. There is nothing better than sitting in the garden, enjoying a glass of wine together and casually chatting whilst looking at the night sky - but of course, you want to be able to see each other's faces! Check out this inspiration at a great price from Groupon's outdoor lighting section.

Ring the changes with the seasons

It is also worth remembering that you may be getting your garden looking exactly how you want it but you may be changing it in a mere matter of months as the seasons change. Some of your plants may be perennial, some annual, some evergreen and it's worth considering a mix to make your garden interesting all year round. Choose your plants wisely - make sure they are matched to the environment they will be living in - there is no point buying plants that thrive in the sun and putting them in the shade, just as there wouldn’t be any point doing the opposite. Consider the plants that grow best together - they will thrive this way.

Automate not procrastinate 


Finally, make sure you have a layout that suits you and automate things if you can. We’ve already mentioned outdoor lighting which is perfect for those dusky evenings and if you are a keen gardener, you will probably be out most days tending to your garden. But even the keenest gardener will have an off day where they aren’t feeling well or just can’t be bothered - so automating certain things will help both you and your garden. If you have sprinklers, calibrate them to water your lawn just right. Have a drip irrigation system to ensure your garden is always watered even if you forget. There are so many things you can do to keep your garden as you like it without too much stress.

Have you got your garden how you want it?

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How To Keep The Kids Entertained On A Caravan Holiday

A caravan holiday is a holiday that appeals to all ages, young and old and with more British people than ever having a staycation in the UK it may have crossed your mind that it's the type of holiday you'd like to try out with all the family.  Being in one caravan for the whole holiday does have its challenges, however, so check out my ideas on how to keep the kids entertained on a caravan holiday. 

Bring some home comforts

Whilst you don’t want to be carting everything from home on holiday with you, bringing some home comforts for the kids can keep them entertained. Perhaps take along a couple of their books, colouring pencils, some puzzles or perhaps even their tablet. You probably won’t even need to use them to keep the kids entertained but it is handy to have them if needs be.

Make sure to visit kid friendly destinations


Caravans are so portable that you can be in the middle of nature in no time at all. Should you choose to holiday in a static caravan, they will be on parks which are often situated by plenty of kid friendly places such as beaches, farms, zoos and amusement parks. These are a surefire way to keep the kids happy and the adults will almost certainly love them too.

Get in touch with nature

If you are choosing a caravan holiday, make sure you are close to nature. The beach is always popular but even just being close to local parks and places like that will keep the kids happy for hours. Perhaps even do a nature trail - kids love those kinds of things.

Spend time planning activities


Getting your children involved in planning the activities you do on holiday is super important. Spending time together in the evening planning the activities for the next day means that everyone gets an input and there is less chance of people getting upset or frustrated the next day. Popular activities could include going to the seaside, visiting a farm or children's play area.

Make a game of it


If you find the children starting to get a little frustrated, make little games up. You don’t need to play the typical games like I Spy - why not set up a game where the kids have to collect a load of items - say perhaps seeing how many shells the kids can collect from the beach or how many different unique items they can find at the park.

Enrol them in kids clubs


Whilst these aren’t for everyone, kids clubs are perfect for keeping the kids entertained when on a caravan holiday. It keeps them happy and gives the adults some time to relax without having to worry about appeasing the children.
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Caravan holidays are so much fun and it is little wonder so many more people are choosing to stay in the UK and head on their very own holiday in a caravan. They are also an affordable way to go on holiday and if you can't afford a new caravan there are deals to be had on used caravans too. They are a great way to introduce your children to different parts of the country and help them to get involved in a number of different activities, plus they are super affordable too - what's not to love.

Would you consider a caravan holiday? Do you have any tips for keeping the kids entertained on a caravan holiday?

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Saray Turkish Restaurant Review Cardiff

Unless you've been to Turkey or are Turkish you may have similar preconceptions to me of Turkish cuisine, that it is all reformed meat kebabs in pitta bread. Well, I have to put my hands up and admit I was wrong.

 Last week I was invited to a cookery class at the Saray Turkish restaurant in City Road Cardiff. 

Saray opened in 2015 and have been proudly serving Turkish food since then. Their motto is 'everything from scratch, fresh and delicious'. The meaning of the word Saray is 'palace'. Throughout history, Saray's have always been a place of getting together and sharing different cuisines.

I was joined by my friend Kacie Morgan from The Rare Welsh Bit and Charlie from High Street Beauty Junkie. 
The lovely Selma

We were met by the very sweet Selma, who part owns the business and Kelly the lovely PR lady. My first taste of Saray's Turkish hospitality was a cup of Turkish tea in a pretty cup. Everyone who comes here gets tea as a form of welcome. For some reason I expected it to be strong and distinctive like Turkish coffee but it was a like a black version of our English breakfast tea - refreshing all the same!


The restaurant is large inside and modern. I was impressed how clean it looked, which is always a good sign.



The menu was well priced, with starters such as hummus from £3. There were many dishes on the menu that I liked the look of. A felafel starter at £3.50 sounded tasty and there was a dish of calamari on the menu at £4 which I thought was a bargain. Of the main courses, the grilled whole chicken marinated in a special sauce caught my eye, as well as the kleftiko, a traditional Turkish dish which is a shank of lamb in a rich vegetable sauce.  Good to see a variety of vegetarian and vegan options too like a tasty sounding vegetable moussaka.

We were here to make our own lunch, so without further ado, we put on our aprons and our hats and donned our gloves to make the first dish - Adana Kebabs.


Jihat our chef

Jihat was our chef. He showed us patiently how to make the kebabs and then let us have a go making them ourselves.

The kebabs they make here are made of good quality minced lamb, chopped onion, diced red pepper, salt, chilli flakes and parsley. They are moulded carefully on skewers then grilled for 4-6 minutes until browned all over. Doesn't that sound easy to make? Well, I can tell you, it was trickier than you would think! You need a little bit of oil on your hands to form the kebabs and it's important to have lamb with a little fat to make the kebabs moist when cooking.




Then onto the Pide bread. Pide is a delicious Turkish flatbread that has an array of toppings and is baked in a stone oven. 


The bread base is made in-house in a traditional way.


This bread dough base was first topped with spinach and cheddar cheese and folded on the edges to get a crimped effect.



Then we made some with different toppings including lamb and chicken.




Kacie from the Rare Welsh Bit

As you can see Pide is the perfect portable dish, with some similarities to a pizza. Great to share with friends or not, depending on how hungry you are. It's a light and delicious dish for sure. 

Then it was time to sit down and taste our creations as well as try a selection of mezze, lots of small dishes and dips to share. We had hummus which is a favourite of mine - a chickpea, garlic and olive oil dip, tzatziki - which is yoghurt mixed with cucumber, mint, salt and garlic and babagannus - a dish with aubergine, peppers, tomatoes, olive oil and seasonings with an interesting smokey flavour. 


When all the food came at once, it really was a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Everything looked super fresh and inviting.



The Adana Kebabs were really very good indeed! They didn't have a strong lamb flavour, instead, the chilli gave the kebabs a nice bit of spice and the seasoning meant the kebabs was well flavoured. They also were not greasy at all, the fat in the meat helping to keep the kebabs moist.


To finish we had Kadayif, the most indulgent treat of shredded filo pastry with pistachio nuts, soaked in a honey syrup. If you've had ever had baklava it is very similar and equally as delicious.  I must admit, this was a favourite of mine and I had two!

The food at the Saray Turkish restaurant was a total surprise to me, fresh, flavourful, tasty and utterly delicious and not a reformed meat kebab in sight. With a variety of dishes for meat eaters and vegetarians, you can do no wrong if you ventured here for a meal out in Cardiff. Good, honest, Turkish cuisine, packed full of flavour and served with smiles. Recommended.

Sarah Turkish Restaurant
164-166 City Road Cardiff, CF24 3JE
02920 494943
Sunday - Thursday 12pm - 11pm
Friday - Saturday 12pm - 12am

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Designing A Bespoke Engagement Ring With Bejouled

Getting engaged is one of the important moments in your life, and whether you are the person proposing or not, both parties want it to be perfect. This is where a bespoke engagement ring would be the ultimate choice. With a bespoke engagement ring, you know that it is unique, no one else will have the same ring, and that, of course, makes it even more special.  

 Today on my blog, I am speaking to Darren and Caitlein from Bejouled. Bejouled is Scotland's premier destination for bespoke wedding and engagement rings. Darren was trained in Hatton Garden in London, home to some of the most respected jewellers in the world and in 2010 he opened his store in Glasgow. Bejouled's focus is on the memorable experience and creating something completely unique to each individual couple which suits both style and budget.



Thinking of proposing to your other half? Or are you looking to pick your own Engagement Ring? Forget the high street!

As we always say, bespoke is best and no one does it quite likeBejouled. From sparkling vintage designs to classic Solitaires, we have something for everyone! Many think that custom designing your engagement ring is more expensive and time-consuming, but that is far from the case! You are in total control and we will work with you on style and budget, assisting you in everything from selecting the all-important centre stone to choosing the final setting.

But don’t just take our word for it! We have spoken to a previous customer, Lee who came toBejouled in search for the perfect engagement ring for his bride to be Charline! We helped him from start to finish and the final outcome was truly stunning!



What made you decide to go bespoke and have your Engagement Ring designed by Bejouled rather than simply walking into a high street store and buying one? Do you think it made it more special?

Lee: I liked the idea of having a bit more control and flexibility over choosing a specific stone and then having the ability to combine that with a unique setting. It also left the option of the setting open to discussion and change after the proposal. Bejouled provided me with a silver sample which I chose for the engagement. Luckily Charline loved it and in the end, there were minimal changes to the design although it was a huge reassurance to have the option there.

Lee, did you have an idea of what you were looking for before you came to Darren at Bejouled?

Lee: I had a rough idea in that I was keen on a solitaire style setting. Little did I know how many variations and further options were possible. Darren and Caitlein made the process nice and easy with the information I had provided and were very patient with me. It was a tough decision!

Was your partner involved in the process and did they give their opinion on the design?

Lee: Charline was involved in the process after the engagement. As I proposed with the silver sample, there was then an opportunity after, for Charline to have an input in the final ring. As I mentioned before, luckily she loved the design.

What was your favourite part of the design process?



Charline: I loved the fact Lee and I could both go into the shop, sit down and have a chat with Darren about exactly what we wanted. The only thing we changed about the ring was the setting was a bit lower. The fact that Darren was so easy to work with and made the process all very fun and exciting like it should be.

What was the hardest part of the process?

Charline: We were lucky that it all went very smoothly, Darren was very busy but always communicated with us and always made time to fit us in around our hectic schedule.

Would you recommend going Bespoke to others? If so why?

Charline: I always walked past the shop and was drawn to the beautiful jewellery in the window but never knew that everything was made by Darren. The fact you can design your own ring or have an idea and have it made is incredible. The finished product is perfect and working with Darren and his team was a pleasure. Very reasonable pricing for the service you get. It was also useful looking at past commissions to get an idea of what the company could do.

Charline, what do you think of our gorgeous Bespoke Engagement Ring?


Charline: I love the way Darren has kept the classic look of an engagement ring and added a twist with the halo of diamonds underneath the centre diamond. I have never seen anything like this and love how unique it is. I am in love with the ring and its modern twist on a classic beauty.

Finally, tell us your proposal story?

Lee: It was in Charline’s childhood holiday destination, Il de ré in France. There was a couple of false alarms and I ended up carrying the ring in my pocket for a night (I’m glad it was the silver sample!) and deciding not to propose. Eventually, the right moment arrived and I managed to get Charline onto the beach under the stars. Thankfully she said yes! It must’ve been the ring...

So if you are looking for your dream ring, get in touch today and start your Bejouled Love Story….

Bejouled
85 Deanston Drive
Shawlands
Glasgow
G41 3AL
0141 649 7675
https://www.bejouled.co.uk/

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