WW14 2023 - Flip eBook Pages 1-50 (2025)

FAMILY, HOME & WELLNESS THE FREEDOM AND JOY OF GOING SOLO STUNNING STYLE PICKS CHEERS LADIES COCKTAILS TO LOVE MADE IN IRELAND Lowdown €2000 + AMAZING PRIZES 46 MEN’S HEALTH VA VA VILAMOURA F lying High SINGLE@50 & L VIN’ IT GOING IT ALONE Mum of the Year Finalist WORTH IT THE K CLUB TREND ALERT SUMMER SEQUINS Solo Travel Tips Elaine ON THE JOYS OF SINGLE LIFE CROWLEY SUMMER SPARKLES Get your Shimmer On Issue 14 July 3rd 2023 €3.50 (NI stg £3) WW14 Cover Elaine Crowley KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 29/06/2023 11:24

CONTENTS ON THE COVER Online... womansway.ie Subscribe... 01 4569872 Email... [emailprotected] Facebook... facebook.com/womansway Twi er... Womans_way Instagram... Womans_way WIN WIN WIN HOME & GARDEN FOOD & DRINK STYLE & BEAUTY MUM OF THE YEAR AWARDS Instagram... 54 Spice It Up: Tasty fusion dishes. 59 Cocktails and Dreams: Cracking cocktail recipes. 25 Beauty Faves: What the WW crew use on repeat. 26 Eyes That Sparkle: How to add shimmer to your eyelids. 28 Style Faves: Vintage fi nds. 30 Shine on: Sequin summer styles. 34 Seas the Style: Mediterranean interiors. 36 Let the Sunshine in: Summer updates for the home. 62 Caring for Roses: How to troubleshoot common problems. 64 Avoiding Injuries: Outdoor jobs without the pain. 66 Pest Patrol: Tips for a bug-free garden. 24 Neostrata: Four skincare hampers are up for grabs. 70 Shoehorn.ie: Bag yourself a €500 gift card to buy comfy shoes. 72 TanOrganic: Win a self-tan hamper worth €500. 90 Bloom Magic: Win fl ower hatboxes for you and four friends. 4 Elaine Crowley: The TV star talks about the joy of going it alone and fi nding her groove. 14 Driven to Succeed: Meet our Mum of the Year fi nalist Karen Clince. 18 Loving the Single Life: Andrea Smith on enjoying freedom. 20 Travelling Solo: Our top tips. 32 The Road Less Travelled: How travelling solo can open up new friendships. Elaine Crowley Page 4 GOING SOLO SPECIAL ISSUE 24 Neostrata: are up for grabs. 70 Shoehorn.ie: card to buy comfy shoes. 72 TanOrganic: worth €500. 90 Bloom Magic: 14 Driven to Succeed: Meet our Mum of the Year fi nalist Karen Clince. Let the Sunshine in Page 36 TanOrganic Page 72 Cocktails and Dreams Page 59 hatboxes for you and four travelling solo can open up new friendships. Driven to Succeed Page 14 2-3 WW14 Contents KOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 29/06/2023 11:36

Contact us: Subscriptions, email [emailprotected]; telephone hotline, 01 465 9872. Woman’s Way queries, email [emailprotected]; website womansway.ie. Published by Harmonia Limited, printed by Boylan Print Group, distributed by Newspread. Woman’s Way is now a fortnightly magazine. Subscription rates for the Island of Ireland are: Annual €91.00,; Six Months: €45.50; Monthly Payments: €7.58. Woman’s Way Subscriptions Dept, Units 2&3 M50 Business Park, Ballymount Avenue, D12 HP11. © 2022 Harmonia Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior permission of the publishers. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors in advertisements, articles, photographs or illustrations. All information is correct at time of going to press. SUBSCRIBE TO WOMAN’S WAY & DON’T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE To subscribe online log on to womansway.ie or call the Subscription Hotline on 01 465 9872 TRAVEL REGULARS THE WW TEAM HEALTH & WELLBEING Carifl a x Contact us: Subscriptions, email [emailprotected]; telephone hotline, 01 465 9872. Woman’s Way queries, email [emailprotected]; website womansway.ie. Published by Harmonia Limited, printed by Boylan Print Group, distributed by Newspread. Woman’s Way is now a fortnightly magazine. Subscription rates for the Island of Ireland are: Annual €91.00,; Six Months: €45.50; Monthly Payments: €7.58. Woman’s Way Subscriptions Dept, Units 2&3 M50 Business Park, Ballymount Avenue, D12 HP11. © 2022 Harmonia Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior 38 Viva Vilamoura: Norah Casey visits the Portuguese resort town. 42: All Aboard: The best European train rides. 44 Going North: Discovering the Dunadry Hotel in Co Antrim. 45 The K Club: How the Co Meath hotel reinvented itself. Publisher: Norah Casey Editor: Carissa Casey Deputy Editor: Niamh O’Reilly Contributing Editors: Astrid Madsen, Andrea Smith Art Director: Karl O’Toole Designers: Áine Duffy and Susan Conley Subscriptions: [emailprotected] Email: [emailprotected] Woman’s Way, July 17, 2023 Vol.61 Issue 14 16 Fake Food: The dangers of ultraprocessed foods. 74 Blended Families: Making them work. 76 Wakeful Nights: Why most of us aren’t getting enough sleep. 78 Heat and Hot Flushes: Menopause tips. 80 Drinking Mindfully: Actress Georgia Toffolo’s low booze habits. 82 The Iceman’s Daughter: Laura Hof praises cold therapy. 84 Men’s Health: How to broach the subject with your partner. 86 Love All: Tennis coach Judi Murray talks second chances. 88 Changing Wombs: Linda Barker on menopause taboos. 9 We Love: The WW team shares what they’re loving - and what they’re not. 10 MoodBoard: Folk Fusion. 46 The Hot List: Check out our top entertainment picks. 50 You Said It: Readers' letters and pictures. 52 Timeout: Take a break, try our quiz and Prize Crossword. 68 Knitting: Vibrant béret. 71 Horoscopes: What’s in the stars for you? 73 Ask Fiona: Our columnist answers reader dilemmas. 91 Lend a Hand: Ways to give back. 92 Quick Fire: TV personality and entrepreneur Anna Daly. 93 We Tried: Skin Theory face peel. 94 Why Is This a Thing: Summer weather. menopause taboos. Hello, Welcome to our Going Solo Special Isssue, where we celebrate the joy and freedom of suiting ourselves. These days, many of us are single, and even those of us who are married sometimes want the option of doing things on our own and in our own way. For women, it takes a certain confi dence to go solo whether it’s to the cinema, a restaurant or a trip away. Aside from a lucky few, most of us grew up with mothers who would never have dreamt of abandoning the family ship to set sail on their own for a few hours, let alone for days or weeks so we didn’t have many role models for solo adventures. But times have changed. Nowadays, few sensible people bat an eyelid if they see a woman out and about enjoying her own company. I have to admit I’m something of an introvert, so I have never had a problem spending time alone, or doing things on my own. I know from friends that not everyone is comfortable with going solo. I say it's worth giving it a shot just to see how it feels. Most people, including me when I was younger, fi nd it a bit uncomfortable at fi rst. We worry that people will think it strange, that we're odd in some way. But, as we all know by now, other people spend little or no time thinking about the rest of us. So once you've reminded yourself of that, you might fi nd you start to enjoy the peace and freedom of being on your own. Or maybe you won't and it really isn't for you. Either way, you'll have discovered something about yourself. Enjoy! MoodBoard Page 10 Vibrant Blended Families Page 74 We Tried Page 93 Viva Vilamoura Page 38 2-3 WW14 Contents KOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 29/06/2023 14:28

4 WOMANSWAY.IE 4-7 WW14 Elaine KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 28/06/2023 16:24

IN PERSON WOMANSWAY.IE 5 One The of Power continues overleaf >> and anything else after that is a bonus, like if you’re married or have somebody in your life or your parents are still around.” DEALING WITH GRIEF Elaine was heartbroken when her beloved mum, Mary V, died at the end of 2021 aged 80 from cancer. She also sadly lost her dad to the same condition, and he was only 61 when he passed. It was a huge blow to the family, particularly to Mary V. who was very colourful and a real character, “She lost the love of her life and her heart was absolutely shattered so how do you come back from something like that?” says Elaine. “My mam never met anyone else and never wanted to, so we all minded her then. Losing her was very hard and the fi rst year was pretty horrible but I'm coming around now. My whole world did a 180 at that time with everything that was going on, so all the stability I had was gone within a few months, which took a lot out of me. I'm not good with change in any shape or form, so having so much of it thrust upon me was overwhelming. I just put one foot in front of “Everything was turned upside down,” the 45-year-old admits, honestly. “My mother passed away, my partner and I broke up and I moved house, so there were loads of different things going on around the same time. I’m still working out the new ‘normal’, if that makes sense.” Coping with such upheaval is a testament to Elaine’s strength and resilience, considering she experienced four out of fi ve of what are considered to be the most stressful life events concurrently. Originally from Newtwopothouse in Cork, the presenter has nine siblings. Her late parents - Sean and Mary V - were teachers who ultimately became school principals. Elaine left Cork to attend university in Dublin after school and began working in TV straight away, so she learned to be independent from an early age. “I've always had to be fairly self-suffi cient and that’s the way it has been since my dad died when I was 23,” she says. “I'm used to being by myself and I don't think you should ever depend on a relationship to have your back 100 per cent, because it just doesn’t happen, in my experience. You have to be strong enough to be able to rely on yourself Having made her TV debut in the early days of TV3, now known as Virgin Media Television, Elaine Crowley’s vibrant, warm personality and Cork accent have been a staple of the station’s daytime programming for 23 years. She moved over to present Ireland AM at weekends in 2021 alongside Martin King and Katja Mia, and loves it - even if the early mornings are a killer. “I have to be up at 4am on Friday and 5.30am on Saturday and Sunday,” she groans. “I’ve never liked getting up early but I work with some of my best friends and we have great craic. There’s a fantastic bunch of people working on the show and I love them. Martin is great and he's probably the most beloved male presenter in the country and Katja is an amazing talent - I think she’s fabulous.” Taking up the position meant a complete change in her weekly regime, as Elaine had previously been working weekdays presenting and producing her eponymous chat show, Elaine. The move came at a challenging time as there was a lot of change going on in her personal life and it was also in the middle of the pandemic. TV presenter Elaine Crowley tells Andrea Smith about coping with change and paddling her own canoe. 4-7 WW14 Elaine KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 28/06/2023 16:26

6 WOMANSWAY.IE the other and tried to get through the year as best I could.” Elaine loves spending time with her large family and adores her 25 nieces and nephews - she will become a great-aunt in the next few months too. She is very close to her siblings - Veronica, John, Mona, Kathy, Colm, Mags, Lillian, Brendan and Liam - and also loves spending time with her small, but tight-knit, group of friends. She has learned to avoid hanging out with those who are seduced by the glitz and glamour of showbusiness. “I love the right kind of company, because I think in this business, there are too many fake people out there,” she points out. “Over the years, I would have made the mistake of thinking people were my friends when they clearly weren’t. I’m a very loyal friend and think that being betrayed by a friend is worse than by a partner and it’s something you don’t get over. Claire is my best friend from home, and in Dublin, I have Eleanor, Teresa, Billy and Brian. I’m going to be Teresa’s bridesmaid later this year. “That’ll be the fifth time - I’m always the bridesmaid and never the bride,” she jokes. “I’ll be like the girl in that film, 27 Dresses. Teresa knows I’m allergic to being a bridesmaid. She just keeps laughing at me and telling me to suck it up. All joking aside, It’s lovely to be asked.” RELATIONSHIPS When it comes to dating, Elaine would prefer to meet someone socially as she is not interested in using dating apps. Her previous relationships all started off as friendships that blossomed into something deeper. “To be honest, I haven't been on a date so far this year,” she admits. “At my age, I’m kind of in ‘divorce season’ as a lot of the people I know are breaking up. The more I look around, the more I think I might have dodged a bullet. Sometimes, it seems like drudgery - working all day and coming home to do all the chores, and like it or not, the burden usually falls to women. Then it’s wash, rinse and repeat, which just doesn't sound ideal at all.” So what would someone as independent and emotionally intelligent as Elaine look for in a relationship? “If I was ever to start seeing anyone again, he’d want to be very confident in himself - very self-assured, no insecurities and no bull,” she explains. “I want someone who is trustworthy, but don't want to be living in anyone’s pocket 24/7 either. There's a balance to be had, especially when you're a bit older looking for a relationship. I won't be holding hands with someone and skipping down the street every morning. “I don't want to live with anyone again - that doesn't interest me at all as I like my own space,” she adds. “I would like someone to go on holidays with the odd time for companionship - and I wouldn't mind the odd bit of you-know-what now and then. Your sex drive peaks in your 30s and 40s, apparently.” Getting up so early at weekends means that it's difficult for Elaine to have a normal social life, as when she’s off during the week, everyone else is at work. Then when her family are hanging around together at weekends, she’s at work. It has taken a bit of adjustment but she makes it work. “I became a bit of a hermit for a while but I have to shake myself out of that,” she says. “I love going home to Cork and hanging out with my sisters, and going for brunch and chatting with them.” After her last serious relationship broke up, Elaine moved house, and having rented in Dublin for a couple of decades, one very exciting plan is on the horizon. She is now hoping to buy a house and has a deposit saved “I don't want to live with anyone again - that doesn't interest me at all as I like my own space” 4-7 WW14 Elaine KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 4 28/06/2023 16:26

IN PERSON WOMANSWAY.IE 7 up. “I'm not sure if I'm going to buy in Dublin or Cork at the moment,” she says. “I think most people want to buy for security. If you’re paying a mortgage on a house rather than renting, you’ll still be dead at the end of the day and it will pass to someone else anyway. The thought of being homeless is really scary, so knowing you have security of tenure is what you need and I think that is intrinsic to every Irish person.” CAREER GOALS Elaine is at the top of her game as a TV presenter, and being in possession of a keen intellect, warm empathy and vast general knowledge makes her great at her job. When it comes to career ambitions, she would love to start a podcast aimed at women, as she loved the girlie chats and camaraderie that were the hallmarks of the Elaine show. Elaine is very beautiful and has a great figure, but doesn’t really go to the gym anymore. She found when she went that she was building muscle really quickly and bulking up, so she prefers to go for nice walks instead. She particularly enjoys strolling around Doneraile Park when she is in Cork. “I’m probably the most unfit I've ever been in my life, which is a holy disgrace,” she says. “I really need to cop on. My main mode of transit is walking. I love walking around in nature and Doneraile Park is beautiful. Being there really feeds the soul.” Elaine’s skin looks fabulous, and she attributes her current glow to having a course of Emface from BTL Aesthetics. It’s a procedure that treats facial skin and muscles without needles by using thousands of pulses per session to contract and tone facial muscles. “It’s like Slendertone for the face,” she explains. “They put electrodes on your face that lift your eyelids, cheekbones and chin and it’s feckin’ brilliant. I haven’t had Botox since last year and haven't had fillers in years.” As her life is busy, Elaine loves to take the opportunity to travel to recharge her batteries. She recently travelled solo to Thailand, which is one of her favourite places. I always crave solitude,” she says. “When I was small, I used to hide in the cupboard under the stairs with my books and a lamp because I shared a room with three sisters. Life can get too ‘people-y’ for me at times, and when that happens, I need to retreat back into my shell and get my head together and my energy levels up.” While Elaine also enjoys travelling on holidays with other people, she says that there are huge advantages to seeing the world by yourself.“You’re not fighting with anyone else over where to go,” she laughs. “I wouldn't go on a solo holiday to a partytype resort, especially as a woman, but adventuring or health-based holidays are great when I want to paddle my own canoe. I went to Australia years ago and toured up the Gold Coast on my own and it was great. The advantage is that you can do what you want when you want and are not going by anyone else’s agenda. The disadvantage is that you are on your own should anything happen, but if you book through someone reputable and go to decent places, you should be safe enough.” Elaine is also getting the opportunity to travel a bit with the TV show, and in what will make a lot of viewers envious, will shortly head to Maastricht to interview André Rieu. “It’s great to get the opportunity to travel for work, which is something I did a lot when I started off as a reporter,” she says. “I’m really looking forward to doing the interview, which will air in August. I know I'm very lucky to have a fantastic job that many people would love to have so I’m very grateful for it.” WW Catch Elaine on Ireland AM each Friday 7am-10am and Saturday and Sunday from 9am- noon. L-R Katja Mia, Rebecca DeHavilland, Elaine Crowley, Liz O'Kane, Dami Hope, Dylan McGrath, Karen Koster and Darragh Ennis 4-7 WW14 Elaine KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 5 28/06/2023 16:26

MADE IN IRELAND TERMS & CONDITIONS: Price includes P&P and is correct at time of going to press. Your subscription contract will be fulfilled by Harmonia Limited ([emailprotected]) together with its agents. See www.harmonia.ie for full terms and conditions. Prices quoted are for postal delivery to Irish addresses only. Please allow up to six weeks for delivery of first subscription issue via An Post. Buy online at: womansway.ie Or phone our Hotline on: 01 465 9872 Tired of reading from a tiny screen? Take time out from your busy life and rediscover the joy of fl icking through a beautifully designed magazine. Woman’s Way is the leading Irish women’s magazine, one of the few left on the market. We are a voice for Irish women and support Irish brands, large and small. Packed full of fabulous beauty, fashion, interiors, gardening, recipes and more, along with great stories and interviews with our favourite celebrities. You’ll see euro prices for all our product recommendations and they are all available here in Ireland. We support Irish women, support us. Stop scrolling, start flicking Take time out, Take Woman’s Way Our six monthly subscription is ONLY €45.50 or, even better, pay monthly for JUST €7.58 Subs Ad NEW 2023 KOT2CCRS.indd 2 29/06/2023 11:32

We Love PASSION • CRAVES • MOOD PASSION WE LOVE WOMANSWAY.IE 9 CRAVES • MOOD Carifl a l es Soft wood cuttings: Yay, I’ve been doing really well on these this year. I’ve four new baby plants of a lovely Hydrangea Paniculata Limelight. Summer sales: My other main hobby of online shopping has gone into overdrive. Fingers crossed a cream suit from Zara is as good as it looks in the pictures. Andrea l es And Just Like That. I'm enjoying seeing Carrie and co navigate life in their 50s, while looking gorgeous and having vibrant love lives. Taste of Dublin. I can’t cook to save my life, but I loved the Spanish Tourism Offi ce’s World Tapas Day presentation and Rachel Allen’s strawberry and white chocolate celebration cake demo. Astrid l es Foods of Athenry. It doesn't happen very often, but I love it when I fi nd locally-made, healthy food the kids enjoy. Bladder Boss. An Irish app that helps people like me who have bladder control issues. Love it because it gets me to do my pelvic fl oor exercises. So Into... Flowers in bloom. They brighten up our days. Getting a tan even though we lather ourselves in sunscreen. Summer festivals and concerts, so many good gigs to enjoy. The at-home brown sugar shaken espresso trend. So easy and delish. Couriers not delivering parcels. Lads, leaving it in the bin is not a safe place. Kids telling us they're bored. How is that even possible? Over-taking on the inside lane. This seems to have become the norm with a lot of drivers on Irish motorways. It’s stupid and dangerous. Hail in summertime? What is going on with the weather? So Over... Astrid l es 9 WW14 We Love SC2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 28/06/2023 13:45

MOODBOARD CREATE • CURATE • INSPIRE By Norah Casey 10 WOMANSWAY.IE BOARD 1 OLENKA DESIGN Raspberry Blues €181.75, visit olenkadesign.co.uk 2 REX LONDON Coir Doormat Folk Doves €24.90, visit takatomo.de 3 V&A Hare Tile Magnet €4.10, visit vam.ac.uk 4 PERKINS & MORLEY Folksy Deckchair (Teal) €175.88, visit perkinsandmorley.com 5 PRETTY TIFFIN Three Compartment Tiffi n Lunch Box (Folksy Floral, Burnt Orange) €43.37, visit prettytiffi n.co.uk 6 ABIGAIL BORG Strala Peach Tea Towel €16.42, visit abigailborg.com 7 FASNACHT Pendant Lamp €362, visit mindthegap.com 8 FIONA HOWARD Henley Wallpaper In Dove €114.91, visit fi onahoward. com 9 MINDTHEGAP Transylvanian Roots Szekely Linen Portrait €186.44, visit mindtheg.com 10 CLAIRE LOUISE Cottage Floral Cat Cushion €35.17, visit claire-Louise.co.uk 11 TALKING TABLES Pink Floral Paper Napkins €5.28, visit talkingtables.co.uk 12 H.O.C.K. Luciana Outdoor Floral Mattress Cushion (50x50x10cm) €34.90, visit hock-dich-hin.de 13 RICE Melamine Latte Macchiato Mug Floral Field €10.90, visit takatomo.de 14 MADE BY HAND ONLINE Hand Painted Porcelain Tile €32.83, visit madebyhandonline.com 15 NATALIA WILLMOTT Hand-Embroidered Vintage Hand Towel €32.83, visit nataliawillmott.co.uk FOLK FUSION Embrace folksy fl orals and hippie vibes as the summertime festival season gets underway. Look for wallpapers, upholstery fabrics, or curtains adorned with delicate and intricate blooms reminiscent of the 1940s and 1950s. These fl orals can be anything from full-bloom vibrant blossoms to dainty wildfl owers. Seek out craftwork and hand-made accessories and opt for unexpected colour matches to add a contemporary twist. Get festival bursts of vitality into your living space and wardrobe with a fresh take on vintage fl orals and retro boho style. This is not a carefully-curated look, so go full-on with mixing and matching to create a dynamic overlay to existing furniture pieces. Don’t be afraid to add some personality and make a bold statement with fl oral ceramics, throws, rugs and murals. Once you’ve perfected the uplifting festival feels at home, add some fab vibrant pieces to complete your folksy hippie look for those special days when you get to dance in the sun. 1 6 11 12 13 10-11 WW14 Mood Board Interiors_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 10:01

MOODBOARD By Norah Casey WOMANSWAY.IE 11 4 5 9 10 8 15 2 More folksy fl oral fashion overleaf >> 3 MOODBOARD 8 7 14 10-11 WW14 Mood Board Interiors_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 10:14

12 WOMANSWAY.IE 1 ROMAN Yellow Tropical Print Frill Hem Smock Dress €46.91, visit roman.co.uk 2 PRIMARK Hip Trip Dress €22, visit Penneys 3 MONSOON Mosaic Print Swimsuit €95, visit very.ie 4 CATHERINE MANUELL DESIGN Floral Full Moon Coin Purse (Flowering Gums) €18.51, visit catherinemanuelldesign. com 5 NEW LOOK Blue Floral Midi Wrap Skirt €29.99, visit newlook.com 6 FROM MY MOTHERS GARDEN Coral Passionfl ower Mid-Length Kimono €88.82 , visit frommymothersgarden.co.uk 7 DUNE LONDON Clarisse Court Shoes €72; Belvedere Clutch Bag €100, visit dunelondon.com 8 THE BRITISH CRAFT HOUSE Sterling Silver Folk Art Daisy Bird Stud Earrings €44.56, visit thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk 9 TK MAXX Spiral Trousers €26.99 visit TK MAXX 10 DUNNES GALLERY Sicily Dress €40, visit dunnesstores.com 11 CHERITH HARRISON Thistles Cosmetic Bag €17.59, visit cherithharrison.com 12 M&S COLLECTION Satin Printed V-Neck Popover Blouse €34, visit marksandspencer.ie 13 FERI FERIFOLK The Jasmine Dress (Lilac) €375; Sadie Dress (Pink) €419, visit feri.ie 14 FOLKSTER The Bohemian Maxi Dress (Sage) €139.95, visit folkster.com WW 1 ROMAN Yellow Tropical Print Frill Hem Smock Dress €46.91, visit roman.co.uk 2 PRIMARK Hip Trip Dress visit Penneys 3 MONSOON Mosaic visit catherinemanuelldesign. visit dunelondon.com visit thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk 9 TK MAXX Spiral Trousers visit 13 FERI FERIFOLK The Jasmine Dress 11 1 4 9 13 12-13 WW14 Mood Board Fashion_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 10:17See AlsoDefine eyes with best matte, shimmer and glitter eyeshadow palettes690 Best Color Team Names [Sorted By Categories]

MOODBOARD WOMANSWAY.IE 13 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 10 12 14 12-13 WW14 Mood Board Fashion_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 10:23

14 WOMANSWAY.IE By Niamh O’Reilly her rock, but she didn’t sugarcoat the situation either. “No matter what was going on in the background, she’d say you need to pull it together and put it in your engine and let it drive you forward.” That she certainly did. When she became unexpectedly pregnant at age 20 and had her baby girl, Ella Bleu, at 21, Karen found herself a single mum. A crisis for some was an opportunity for Karen. “There were hard days, of course, there were days when I felt sorry for myself, but my mum would have no sympathy. She’d say get back up and what are you going to do about it?” Karen laughs. “It just gives you fi re in your belly to succeed.” Karen began offering in-school afterschool services for children in Glasnevin where she worked as a special needs assistant. She’d just given birth to Ella and noticed that there was nothing on offer for the children in terms of after-school care. “I found that the kids wanted something that felt different to being in school, and it was more about being there as an adult to help their emotional and social development. When we focused on that, everything else came on.” For Karen, Tigers Childcare has always been more than a business. She’s a passionate advocate for giving children that safe space, that supportive environment where they can thrive. Again, it goes back to her own childhood experiences. “I often wonder how we [Karen and her siblings] went through quite traumatic events in our childhood and came out the other side being successful?” she muses. “When I went back and did my degree in early years and looked at the psychology of what helps children, I found that it is that one constant person in their lives that tells them they can do it.” For Karen, that was Mary, but not everyone is that lucky. “In childcare we don’t know where our children are coming from, we’ve all sorts of children. Some come from adversity, some who come from what look like very stable, fi nancially secure backgrounds. On the outside of my life, I looked like that child coming in the door, from an affl uent family - no one would Overcoming childhood trauma and facing down misogyny in the boardroom, Mum of the Year fi nalist Karen Clince is a true trailblazer. “There were hard days, but my mum would have no sympathy. She’d say get up, what are you going to do about it?” While some of us might fi nd the idea of being a single mum at age 21 challenging, Karen Clince used it to light a fi re in her belly. From humble beginnings, she has built her company, Tigers Childcare, into a network of 19 childcare centres caring for 2,100 children and employing 310 people. But where did her streak of determination come from and how did she remain so positive? TURNS OUT, IT’S IN THE BLOOD. “We were very lucky we had a very together, sensible and positive mum,” she recalls. “My dad had severe addiction issues from a young age and they amalgamated into some serious mental health issues.” Karen is keen to stress that her dad was a very talented man. “He was a sound producer for TV. We had a fabulous life and travelled all around the world. But [his issues] affected myself and my siblings’ young lives, it was very traumatic and very diffi cult,” she says. Karen’s mum Mary was Succeed Driven to 14-15 WW14 MOTYA KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 28/06/2023 13:49

MUM OF THE YEAR FINALIST WOMANSWAY.IE 15 By Niamh O’Reilly • If you’d like to nominate someone for Woman’s Way and Beko Mum of the Year Awards please email us on [emailprotected] and tell us why. Please include photographs and any supporting material. have batted an eyelid, so it taught me that you never know what’s going on in a child’s life.” Her strong personality and drive to succeed have helped Karen navigate the world of business. “At the start it was tough, juggling like all working mums do - juggling childcare, school collection, running a business and all of that. As a single mum, I didn’t have a huge amount of support, so I was running from Billy to Jack. My son Luca was born at 32 weeks and he came to work with me,” she describes. As her business grew, Karen also had to deal with the inherent misogyny of the often-male-dominated boardroom. “You do fi nd as a woman you’re questioned more on your ability to do things and you personally feel guilty if you have to take time off to do things,” she says. “Men in boardrooms say,' Well I’m a dad too,' but unless you’re a man sitting in a boardroom who’s raising your children on your own without help, then you can’t compare. No matter what business I had, my children always came fi rst and so you don’t always get someone in a boardroom understanding that.” Far from letting it deter her though, Karen used it to drive herself forward. “It sends me back to that place of I’ll show them, you know?” While she never let any of it get to her, Karen was keen to call out misogyny where she saw it. “Unless you call it out in a constructive way I don’t think it’s going to change,” she adds. While her business and the positive impact it’s had on hundreds of children’s lives, has been a huge highlight, for Karen it's being a mum that has brought her the most joy. Ella Bleu, 21, and Luca, 15, are her world. “Having kids is the best thing I ever did, it’s the most fun and I’m glad I had them when I was young. We are great pals and share great adventures together and I hope it will stay that way as they get older.” WW Karen in one of her facilities with Carson and Harrison Ryan Ella Bleu, Karen, Luca and Mary Karen Clince and Mary Fitpatrick 14-15 WW14 MOTYA KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 28/06/2023 13:50

16 WOMANSWAY.IE is off the menu? Not quite. Unless you eat food in its raw state, it’s going to be processed in some way. Slicing it, cooking it, freezing it, is all technically processing the food, however ultra-processed food is about much more than just preparation. “Until recently, we’ve said the difference between good food and bad food is essentially based on the nutrient content, but the term ultra-processed foods came along about fi fteen years ago and it’s a different beast,” says Richard Burton of the Irish Institute of Nutrition and Health (iinh.net). A recent BBC Panaroma documentary investigated the effects of ultra-processed foods. They took two identical twins aged 24 and put Aimee on an ultra-processed diet and Nancy on a low-processed diet. I f you’re anything like me, then you’ve eaten your fair share of ultra-processed foods over the years. It’s almost impossible to get away from them and even harder thanks to the rise of fast food smartphone apps. Earlier this year, the Irish Climate and Health Alliance estimated that a staggering almost half of Irish household food purchases are ultra-processed. But what exactly are ultra-processed foods and why are they a cause for concern? Ultra-processed foods are those that have gone through a high level of processing and have a long list of often unfamiliar ingredients like chemicals, colourings, stabilisers, emulsifi ers and additives. The Irish Climate and Health Alliance believes that our current food system is “like a slow-motion disaster and is a major cause for concern. This is because there is evidence that strongly links the regular consumption of ultraprocessed foods with an increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, obesity and cancer.” They aren’t the only ones to make these links. Study after study is presenting ties between ultra-processed food and chronic ill-health conditions. But does that mean all processed food Niamh O’Reilly lifts the lid on the unappetising truth behind the attractive allure of ultra-processed food. the food, however ultra-processed food is about much more than just preparation. “Until recently, we’ve said the difference between good food and bad food is essentially based on the nutrient content, but the term ultra-processed foods came along about fi fteen years ago and it’s a different beast,” says Richard Burton of the Irish Institute of Nutrition and Health (iinh.net). A recent BBC Panaroma documentary investigated the effects of ultra-processed foods. They took two identical twins aged 24 and put Aimee on an ultra-processed diet and Nancy on a low-processed diet. colourings, stabilisers, emulsifi ers and additives. The Irish Climate and Health Alliance believes that our current food system is “like a slow-motion disaster and is a major cause for concern. This is because there is evidence that strongly links the regular consumption of ultraprocessed foods with an increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, They aren’t the only ones to make these links. Study after study is presenting ties between ultra-processed food and chronic ill-health conditions. But does that mean all processed food 16-17 WW14 Mindset_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 10:51

MINDSET WOMANSWAY.IE 17 RICHARD'S TOP TIPS 1 Read the labels This doesn’t mean you have to spend hours reading them; a quick scan will do. If you don’t look then you’ll assume what you’re eating is healthy because it says so on the front. In some cases, the list is massive. Turn the pack over and question what’s there. 2 Sit down to eat Preferably with others. Don’t try to eat as quickly as possible. If you do, you’re eating faster than the body can work to regulate it. Eat mindfully. It sounds trivial but it’s important to chew your food because then your body can manage what you’re eating. 3 Don’t drink your calories The worst way of taking in calories is in liquids as they go straight through into your gut. And the body has to raise insulin to keep it down. Both women’s diets contained exactly the same number of calories and nutrients. At the end of the two weeks Nancy had lost weight. Aimee however, had not only gained nearly a kilo in weight, but her blood sugar levels worsened, and her blood fat levels went up. Critics will claim it was a small, short-term study, but it’s not an isolated fi nding. In 2019, researcher Kevin Hall made a startling discovery. Over the course of two weeks, 20 participants were restricted to an ultra-processed diet and then switched to a minimally-processed diet for another two weeks. The results showed that the participants ate 500 more calories per day on the ultra-processed diet, and lost weight on the low processed diet. It was evidence that ultra-processed foods caused both overeating and weight gain. When you think about it, it’s not hard to understand why. “Ultra-processed foods are designed to almost melt in the mouth,” says Richard. “They need only a few chews before you swallow them.” In some ways the human digestive system is prehistoric. It’s based on the idea that it took time to chew food and once full, satiating signals would be sent to the brain to tell us to stop eating. “Modern food goes down so quickly that the body’s natural signals aren’t reaching the brain in time. We’re outfl anking our natural feedback systems. If those are missing, then why would you stop eating?” Richard thinks we need to reevaluate how we look at food and its impact on our health. “When you start seeing a correlation between the amount of ultraprocessed food consumed and things like cancer, we know there is far more to our health than just our weight.” Richard believes we need to choose food based on the level of processing fi rst, followed by the nutritional value and calories last. “Counting calories is useless. Yes, we need a measure of the energy in food, but once it gets in the body everyone will use it differently. Look at labels. Think why it has got these weird chemicals or ingredients that I’ve never heard of before? They’re certainly not something I can buy in the supermarket. They are chemicals that the industry is using to create products that look as if they are real,” he says. Indeed with some ultraprocessed foods it’s a case of farm to franken-food, rather than farm to fork. “There are also about 50 different names for sugar. And if manufacturers were forced to add all sugars in one form under one name, then it would often be at the top of the ingredients list.” “Ultimately, the multibillion-euro food industry is based on the assumption that people are short on time, and they will go for convenience,” says Richard. I count myself in this category. I’m a fairly well-educated person and yet, often I’ll grab something quickly and against my better judgment simply because I’m in a rush, it looks attractive or because of its marketing claims on the packaging. In order to take back control of our health, we need to stop, think and ask what’s really in our food? WW MINDSET RICHARD'S TOP TIPS caused both overeating and weight gain. When you think about it, it’s not hard to understand why. “Ultra-processed foods are designed to almost melt in the mouth,” says Richard. “They need only a few chews before you swallow them.” In some ways the human digestive system is prehistoric. It’s based on the idea that it took time to chew food and once full, satiating signals would be sent to the brain to tell us to stop eating. “Modern food goes down so quickly that the body’s natural signals aren’t reaching the brain in time. We’re blood fat levels went up. Critics will claim it was a small, short-term study, but it’s not an isolated fi nding. In 2019, researcher Kevin Hall made a startling discovery. Over the course of two weeks, 20 participants were restricted to an ultra-processed diet and then switched to a minimally-processed diet for another two weeks. The results showed that the participants ate 500 more calories per day on the ultra-processed diet, and lost weight on the low processed diet. It was evidence that ultra-processed foods 16-17 WW14 Mindset_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 10:52

18 WOMANSWAY.IE Photos: Mark Condren and Jenny McCarthy I f you had told me when I was young that I would still be single in my 50s, I would have been utterly horrifi ed. A spinster. On the shelf. Probably living like Miss Havisham. How tragic. When I left school in the 1980s, it was pretty much expected that we would all follow the path of getting married and having children, and that’s what I thought was in store for me. It didn’t work out that way, and here I am at 54 - single, childfree and living a life fi lled with family, friends, pets, work and hobbies. My 25-year-old self would be surprised to learn just how happy and content I am. One of my neighbours had a single aunt back then, and the family always spoke in hushed tones about ‘Poor Linda’. She was quiet and sombre and her family took turns hosting her for family dinners. She also got roped in regularly for babysitting. The impression given was that her siblings were doing her a big kindness by including her in their family occasions, as if she had somehow failed at life because she wasn't married. Looking back, it makes my toes curl. I now realise that Poor Linda was a smidge younger than I am now, and she had a great job and good friends. She probably tolerated her patronising siblings and their noisy children through gritted teeth. Now I’m my family’s very own maiden aunt and we’re a different breed these days. I have a lovely life and nobody is feeling sorry for me or viewing me as a charity case. And why would they anyway, because being single isn’t unusual these days. According to the 2022 Census, of 170,010 women in Ireland aged between 50 and 54, 20.4 per cent of us were single and had never been married. A further 15.3 per cent were either separated (5.7 per cent), divorced (7.2 per cent) or widowed (2.4 per cent). Of course, we have to bear in mind that there is a whole cohort in relationships that don't fall into any of these categories. Even so, the fi gures indicate that a third of women my age didn’t tick the ‘married’ box and a fi fth of us have never donned the big, white meringue dress. Rather than being the odd ones out, a signifi cant number of us are ploughing our own furrows these days. I have lots of wonderful, vibrant single friends living full and happy lives. Most of us aren't even actively looking for a partner because we enjoy our own company and/ or have found the tribes that sustain and fulfi l us. ENJOYING FREEDOM I had relationships in the past but none were very serious and all were in my 20s and 30s. If I was to meet someone who made me happy now, it would be lovely, of course, but if I don't, it won’t bother me. When you have total freedom and you’re used to never compromising, it has to be someone very special to make you want to couple up as you get older. That isn’t to say that I always thought that way. I really wanted to fi nd ‘The One’ in my 20s and 30s and felt like a failure when my friends got married off, one by one. As a younger, single and less confi dent person, I defi nitely felt the pressure of living in a world that appeared to be made for couples. I think it’s harder being on your own when you’re young. It can be easy to feel left behind and akin to a spare part when you're out with the gang and are twiddling your thumbs as friends are slurping the face off their partners. Or when people leave you out of outings because they’re going with other couples. As we got older and my peers settled down, it got easier for me, socially. My married pals became more available and willing to go away on breaks without their partners and children. Also, and much appreciated by me, there was a marked decrease in the couples’ outings and public PDAs. I also branched out and made other friends with similar interests along the way. Some of my pals chose the wrong people to marry, which brought a lot of unhappiness and diffi culty into their lives. The tension and drama that rendered them miserable made me thankful for the peaceful home that is truly my sanctuary. I am grateful for having a very active social life, a great family and friends and a job that I enjoy. A huge advantage to being on your own is that you can fi ll your THE SINGLE Andrea Smith has been single for most of her life and she’s very happy. life LOVING 18-19 WW14 Andrea’s Single Life KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 28/06/2023 15:26

GOING SOLO WOMANSWAY.IE 19 Photos: Mark Condren and Jenny McCarthy spare time doing the things that make you happy. There are no compromises involved so I can watch what I want on TV, cook what I want and I don't have to check in with anyone else before I make a plan. Yeah, there’s no intimacy, but you don't need a regular partner to have an orgasm. I think single people become skilled at gathering a strong network of friends around us. I have friends of all ages and from all walks of life these days, and I invest a lot in my friendships. I still have both of my lovely parents, lucky me, and maybe I’ll feel different about being on my own when they pass away? I feel that people are more appreciated for their uniqueness these days and nobody cares if you have a partner, or not. For example, I joined a choir four years ago and have made fabulous friends, and they rarely mention their partners or families. We just all hang out and have fun with music - the life-affi rming thing we have in common. BECOMING INDEPENDENT These days, single women have choices that generations of women before us simply didn't have. Many were trapped in unhappy marriages because their fi nances and career aspirations were curtailed, and the Catholic Church and society placed great expectations on them in terms of behaviour, freedom and morals. I feel that being single for most of my life has made me into a very strong and capable person. The mortgage on my house is paid and I did it by myself, which was a huge struggle at times. I’m a dab hand at DIY and am always bemused when my friends talk about their partners putting out the bins or topping up the oil in their car. If the bathroom fl oods, I’m the one battling with the stopcock. The hardest part has been coping fi nancially because, when you only have one income in the house, things are always much tighter. I can never take a break from work and I know when I’m a pensioner, things will be very tight on one state pension. Still though, I know I’ll be okay. I have become my own champion and adviser and I’ll always be able to rely on myself to get through diffi cult times. The one thing you need someone else for is having children, and while I would have liked to become a mother, time ran out for me on that front. While many women choose to go it alone these days and nobody bats an eyelid, it wasn't the done thing 20 years ago. Battened down by the expectations around me, I didn’t have the courage to go against convention and visit a sperm bank. Perhaps I’ve poured the love and maternal side I didn't get to express through marriage and motherhood into my pets. I have seven rescue dogs ranging in size from a tiny Jack Russell to massive Staffi e and they make me very happy and are great company. They may have wrecked my home and eaten my house from the inside out, but they’re my little family. People often ask me if I get lonely living by myself and working from home, but I really don’t. My dogs give me unconditional love and entertainment, and when you’re cuddled up on the sofa with pets gazing adoringly at you, sure who needs a man? WW “I have become my own champion and adviser and I’ll always be able to rely on myself to get through difficult times” Andrea and her dogs 18-19 WW14 Andrea’s Single Life KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 28/06/2023 15:36

20 WOMANSWAY.IE TRAVELLING Solo Get out of your comfort zone and discover the freedom of travelling solo where the only person who matters is you. Regular lone wanderer Norah Casey shares her top tips on going it alone. 20-23 WW14 Solo Travel Tips KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 10:54

TRAVEL WOMANSWAY.IE 21 Continued overleaf >> to get into; cycling, walking and hiking tours (which are a great way to meet people); and galleries or exhibitions that you want to guarantee you get to see. GETTING THERE If you are checking in a suitcase, then pack essentials into your on-board travel bag. For me, that always includes one set of clothes, my medication, charging cable, battery pack, printouts of reservations, numbers for my nearest and dearest and a copy of my passport and driving license. If you are on your own and your suitcase goes missing (which happens all too often), plans can get derailed so the aim is to be self-suffi cient. It may feel outdated to take printouts but on one trip, my battery went dead - with all my travel details and boarding cards on it, and on another, I dropped my mobile rushing for a fl ight and my screen was smashed. Being on your own can be a little scary, so it is better to be prepared for the little wrinkles that might happen. ARRIVING Check out how you are getting from your landing point (whether airport, ferry terminal or train station) to of doing what you want when you want and, most important of all, I have gained the confi dence to speak to strangers in convivial places. For those of you who fi nd lone travel daunting, my advice is to take the plunge and you will never look back. It is wonderful to plan just for you. There is something liberating in not having to take anyone else into account. You can do a spur-of-the-moment tour, enjoy a longer lunch, linger as long as you want at an art gallery, go shopping on a whim or change your mind and have a lie-in. Solo travel allows you to be completely and utterly engrossed in your own wants. That’s the greatest pleasure of being a solitary wanderer. There are less pleasurable parts that make it a bit off-putting for some, especially women, but there are ways around it. Here are my top tips for solo travel, mostly learned the hard way… ADVANCE PLANNING Preparation is far more important if you're travelling alone. Check out the destination and plan what you would like to see and do. Book in advance for any tours or experiences but don’t overly pack your days… Spontaneity is the upside of solo sojourns. Do a bit of prebooking for restaurants that might be hard I ’ve been travel writing for a fair few decades now and I am used to being on my own. Along the way, I learned a lot about how to embrace the freedom and joy of solo escapes while staying safe and connected to other humans. My initiation into the world of solo travel began in my late twenties when I embarked on a two-month academic scholarship trip to North America. Every few days I fl ew to a new location and spent nearly all my evenings alone. It was hell. Every night I would either eat a sandwich in my room, or venture out to a restaurant where I balanced a book on the table and pretended to be engrossed in reading while eating. I was climbing the walls within a couple of weeks and ratcheting up huge telephone bills with long-distance calls to home just so I could talk to my friends and family. I counted down the days until I could go home. That trip taught me a great deal about myself, what to do when you are venturing abroad alone, and what not to do. THE JOYS OF SOLO Now I love travelling solo, I am more comfortable with my own company. I have learned to love the utter selfi shness 20-23 WW14 Solo Travel Tips KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 10:55

22 WOMANSWAY.IE where you are staying. I also investigate in advance the safest and quickest way to my destination - sometimes that’s a train, coach or taxi, but in parts of the world an Uber or Freenow works out cheaper and safer for lone female travellers - especially late at night. When planning your schedule, leave time on the fi rst day to familiarise yourself with your new surroundings. I love heading out for an early morning walk when it’s quiet to just relax into a new place. Orientate yourself with what’s nearby - it really does help to make you feel more comfortable in your new surroundings. SAFETY FIRST While you may be used to walking or travelling alone where you live, this might not be the case when you are travelling to other countries. Check in advance for areas of a city or country that might pose a risk. Leave your itinerary or destination contact details with a friend or family member, and check in with them regularly to make sure they know where you are and that you’re safe. While out and about, in crowded tourist areas in particular, keep your essentials (passport, credit cards, phone, etc.) in a crossbody or concealed wallet under your clothes. Take care late at night, be aware of your surroundings and stay vigilant. And not to be a spoilsport, but temper your alcohol intake if you are out on your own in bars and restaurants when the only person minding you is you. I have learned to trust my gut feelings and if a situation feels unsafe or uncomfortable, I remove myself from it. Above all else, your safety and wellbeing should always be a priority. DIVE RIGHT IN Now we’ve got the safety nagging out of the way, time to embrace the sheer joy of being all alone and free to do what you want and when you want to do it. The best solo travel experiences are a blend of some ‘alone time’ and the wonderful chance meetings you encounter when you are just going with the fl ow. Be open-minded and willing to step out of your comfort zone. If you are worried about being lonely, there are some easy ways to connect with locals and fellow travellers. I’ve met amazing people doing cooking classes, boat trips, guided tours and always on those touristy on-and-off buses. It’s usually the fi rst thing I do to get the feel of the city and see where everything is. If you’re having a snack or something more leisurely, then opt for a seat at the bar or a shared table where you can chat to fellow diners. Equally, there is something sublimely selfi sh about eating dinner alone and enjoying the tastes and fl avours of “I’ve met amazing people doing cooking classes, boat trips, guided tours and on those touristy on-andoff buses” 20-23 WW14 Solo Travel Tips KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 4 27/06/2023 10:55

TRAVEL WOMANSWAY.IE 23 TOURIST GUIDE APPS 1 TripAdvisor: TripAdvisor offers user-generated reviews, ratings, and recommendations for hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more. 2 Google Maps: Google Maps is a versatile app that not only provides detailed maps and directions, but also offers a wealth of information about restaurants, attractions and public transportation options. 3 Guides by Lonely Planet: This is a comprehensive travel app featuring curated city guides for various destinations. It provides offl ine maps, suggested itineraries, and expert recommendations for attractions, dining, and accommodation. 4 TripIt: TripIt is an all-in-one travel organiser app that helps you manage your travel plans seamlessly. It allows you to forward your confi rmation emails for fl ights, hotels, car rentals, and more, and it automatically creates a detailed itinerary for you. 5 Culture Trip: This app focuses on cultural experiences and local recommendations. It provides personalised recommendations for attractions, restaurants, events, and hidden gems based on your preferences and interests. 6 Triposo: Triposo is a comprehensive travel app that offers offl ine maps, city guides, and personalised recommendations for various destinations worldwide. 7 Yelp: Yelp is a popular app that provides user-generated reviews, ratings, and recommendations for restaurants, cafés, bars, and other food establishments. 8 OpenTable: This is an app that allows you to make restaurant reservations quickly and easily. It provides information about available tables, menus and reviews. 9 Zomato: Zomato is a global restaurant discovery platform that offers comprehensive information about local dining options. It is especially useful for fi nding popular local eateries and exploring different cuisines. 10 TheFork: Previously known as LaFourchette, this is a restaurant booking app widely used in Europe and often provides exclusive deals and discounts for users. 11 Eatwith: For a unique dining experience, consider using the Eatwith app, which connects travellers with local hosts who offer home-cooked meals, food tours and culinary experiences. 12 Michelin Guide: If you are seeking high-quality dining experiences and Michelin-starred restaurants, this app is for you. It also provides detailed information about Bib Gourmand selections, and other notable dining establishments. wonderful food without all the chatter with companions. ALL THE USUALS Whether travelling alone or with a group, all the usual things apply. Take out travel insurance, if you are in Europe then apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), for details visit hse.ie. Learn a bit of the language for day-to-day use and download a tourist guide to help you navigate your new surroundings. Learn about local customs and traditions. I usually check out a restaurant guide for ease of booking on the go. As always when travelling, respect the local customs, traditions, and cultural norms of the place you’re visiting. It will go a long way towards helping you to connect with locals. CHOOSING WHERE TO STAY Choose hotels with a reputation for solofriendly rooms and experiences. There are lots that now cater for single rooms. Perhaps consider staying in hostels, guesthouses or homestays with communal spaces, which gives you an opportunity to meet fellow adventurers. I always try to stay in centrallylocated hotels within walking distance of the main attractions and restaurants. It limits the chances of being caught without transport late at night. It is also worth investigating the safer parts of any city or destination. While more remote hotels or those in less safe areas may be cheaper, it might be worth the extra expense for peace of mind as a solo traveller. Above all else, enjoy the freedom and independence of solo travelling where you can explore at your own pace. Embrace the solitude and reconnect with yourself. A journey of self-discovery is just as important as the great adventure of learning about new places. And remember, pack a little confi dence and chat to complete strangers… You never know what might happen. WW 20-23 WW14 Solo Travel Tips KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 5 27/06/2023 10:56

24 WOMANSWAY.IE COMPETITION Four lucky readers will win a NeoStrata Gift Box each, including the NEW Skin Active Hyaluronic Luminous Lift (€78.95) and the Skin Active Triple Firming Neck Cream (€79.95). Skin Active is the premium product collection from NeoStrata formulated specifi cally for mature skin. It does this by focusing on ingredients that look at fi rming, volumising and repair. The NEW Skin Active Hyaluronic Luminous Lift is a luxurious gel cream that works to gently exfoliate age spots and dull skin, and promote visibly fi rmer skin as well as visibly-renewed skin tone and texture. At the same time, it has three different types of hyaluronic acid to give your skin an intense boost of hydration while plumping and smoothing the skin for a more volumised and luminous look. Cosmeceutical brand NeoStrata was founded over forty years ago by two prominent dermatological doctors, Dr Van Scott and Dr Ruey Yu, who are the recognised inventors and founders of alpha and poly hydroxy acid technology (AHAs and PHAs). In 2010 they were awarded the Discovery Award by The Dermatology Foundation for their outstanding contributions to dermatology. You can fi nd NeoStrata in pharmacies nationwide, and online at neostrata.ie To enter, please answer the following: NAME ONE OF THE NEOSTRATA FOUNDERS. HOW TO ENTER Email your answer by July 17 to: [emailprotected] including your name, address and telephone number and labelling your mail ‘The NeoStrata Competition’ This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. The editor’s decision is fi nal. Win A NeoStrata skincare hamper 24 WW14 COMP_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 26/06/2023 14:48

BEAUTY FAVES HotPicks Skincredible Mother Nature must have decided that the clear skin of my youth was undeserved, because she made sure to give me troublesome skin in my 50s. In addition to the hairs sprouting, forest-like, on my chin that require daily pruning, I now have to fend off weird red blotches and dry patches. I tried Irish brand Visage+’s MY Clear Skin €28.04,visageplus.ie, which targets spots, sun-damaged skinand dull/problem complexions. It’s a plant-based supplement, which appeals to me as a vegetarian, and it contains high-potency, anti-infl ammatory turmeric and gotu kola with Vitamin D3, hyaluronic acid and olive leaf. Two months in, I can see a marked improvement in my face so I'm delighted. Serum Saviour As someone who could sand fl oors with my parched cheeks, I was excited about Irish skincare expert Eavanna Breen’s new skin serum. Eavanna has used her three decades in the beauty industry to create Skinmade by Eavanna Breen’s Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Serum €70,eavannabreen. ie. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, a substance that retains moisture, which you need as your skin ages. After a few weeks of use, my lines are much fi ner and my skin feels a whole lot more hydrated and a lot less crispy. Shine Off Dewy skin may be in and it's cool to glow, but I feel this look works best if you're young and hip. I prefer to be shine-free, but fi nding the right powder to keep everything matte can be tricky. Having wasted too much money on powders that caked or looked mottled on my skin, I decided to buy Laura Mercier’s Translucent Powder €45 as there was so much hype about it. And, well, it's amazing. It's so fi nely milled and weightless but it looks gorgeous on the skin, lasts all day and keeps the pesky shine under control. You only need a small amount so it lasts ages. Trinners for Winners I am such a fan of Trinny Woodall and religiously follow her content on Instagram. While her fashion tips are brilliant, I am really impressed with her ever-expanding makeup range, and think she's knocking it out of the park with her stackable products. As a fan of cream-based eyeshadows, I love her Trinny London Inner Light range €22, trinnylondon.com. Inspired by positive energy and fi nding balance, there are four moisture-enriched shades: Joy, Serenity, Passion and Harmony. My favourite is Passion, which adds a deep shimmery plum colour to my peepers. What are the products the Woman’s Way crew use on repeat? In this issue, Andrea Smith shares a few of her new favourites. Dewy skin may be in and it's cool to glow, but I feel this look works best if you're young and hip. I prefer to be shine-free, but fi nding the right powder to keep everything matte can be tricky. Having wasted too much money on powders that caked or looked mottled on my skin, Laura Mercier’s Translucent Powder s there was so much hype about it. And, well, it's amazing. It's so fi nely milled and weightless but it looks gorgeous on the skin, lasts all day and keeps the pesky shine under control. You only need a small €22, trinnylondon.com Inspired by positive energy and fi nding balance, there are four moisture-enriched shades: Joy, Serenity, Passion and Harmony. My favourite is Passion, which adds a deep shimmery plum colour to my peepers. powders that caked or looked mottled on my skin, Laura Mercier’s Translucent Powder €45 And, well, it's amazing. It's so fi nely milled and weightless but it looks gorgeous on the skin, lasts all trinnylondon.com. Inspired by positive energy and fi nding balance, there are four moisture-enriched shades: Joy, Serenity, Passion and Harmony. My favourite is Passion, which adds a deep As someone who could sand fl oors excited about Irish skincare expert Eavanna Breen’s new skin serum. decades in the beauty industry Skinmade by Eavanna Breen’s Hyaluronic Acid Intensive day and keeps the pesky shine under control. You only need a small amount so it lasts ages. Tint is Mint I have dark hair and eyes, and because I don't have the patience to sunbathe or apply fake tan, my skin can have a ghostly pallor at times. To prevent me looking like I'm dying of consumption, I like an instant face tint. I’m loving Luna by Lisa Jordan’s Sun Tint €20 which has a gel texture and gives my mush a naturallooking tanned hue. It’s made with aloe vera, green tea extract and Vitamin E so it feels lovely on my skin. I apply with a brush and usually bring it down to my neck and décolleté, and it washes off easily afterwards. Best of all, when I wear it, I stop scaring the local children. WW fi nely milled and weightless but it looks gorgeous on the skin, lasts all day and keeps the pesky shine under control. You only need a small €45 And, well, it's amazing. It's so I have dark hair and eyes, and because I don't have the patience to sunbathe or apply fake times. To prevent me looking like I'm dying of consumption, I like an instant face tint. I’m €20 which has a gel texture and gives my mush a natural- It’s made with aloe vera, green tea extract and Vitamin E so it feels lovely on my skin. I apply with a brush and usually bring it down to my neck and décolleté, and it washes off easily afterwards. Best of all, when I wear it, I stop scaring the local children. WW WOMANSWAY.IE 25 25 WW14 Beauty Faves Andrea KOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 25/06/2023 13:54

26 WOMANSWAY.IE Sparkle Eyes that Nothing says summer quite like a bit of shimmer on the eyelids. Nor is a great night out entirely complete without a hint of sparkle. Carissa Casey shares her tricks for getting it right. 26-27 WW14 Sparkling Eyes_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 26/06/2023 14:56

BEAUTY Sparkle I ’ve spent the last two weeks wearing sparkly eye shadow, day and night, in order to fi nd my very own shimmer sweet spot for this piece. It’s a lot less crazy sounding than you might imagine. Nope, I didn’t go full-on glitterball eyes for my morning coffee stroll (at least not every day). But I did try out every trick, tip and technique that Google had to offer. And this is what I discovered. WOMANSWAY.IE 27 Ace the Base Finding a good primer makes an amazing difference, even when you’re going for a subtle look. My eyes are crêpey these days and glitter has a habit of settling in all those tiny little wrinkles and making them seem even more pronounced. I realised after the fi rst week that no primer was ever going to give me perfectly smooth eyes again (I’m a slow learner, ladies), but a good base allows the sparkle to go on evenly and a bit more smoothly. There are plenty of dedicated eye primers on the market but I found that any good concealer worked just as well. I used a short fl at dense brush to pat the concealer evenly over my lid. The trick I found was to resist the urge to brush it on and just continue patting until the coverage was even. Also, a lighter shade than my foundation worked best underneath whatever shadow I was going to use. Brow Bone I steered well clear of anything sparkly above the actual eye socket. Above the crease I dusted on a dark-toned shadow, buffi ng it in so it was just a hint of a dark shadow rather than an actual colour. For nights out, I went a bit stronger on that accent shade but I kept it as an accent, something that bigs up the main event. Single Colour For me, a single colour all across the eyelids gave the best result and maybe that was because I found it a hell of a lot easier to apply evenly. Whenever I tried to incorporate more than one shade I just ended up with a splodgy mess of indeterminate colour. So I dabbed on - usually a cream or liquid - shadow evenly. During the day I kept the coverage light but, I must admit, amping it up for a night out was a joy. The key thing is to dab or pat, a single layer for a subtle shimmer, a few more layers for full-on glitterball or something in between. If you go too far (and of course I constantly did) just wipe away the I excess with the back of your fi nger. ’ve spent the last two weeks wearing sparkly eye shadow, day and night, Brow Bone I steered well clear of anything sparkly above the actual eye socket. Above the crease I dusted on a dark-toned shadow, buffi ng it in so it was just a hint of a dark shadow rather than an actual colour. For nights out, I went a bit stronger on that accent shade but I kept it as an accent, something that bigs up the main event. Single Colour For me, a single colour all across the eyelids gave the best result and maybe that was because I found it a hell of a lot easier to apply evenly. Whenever I tried to incorporate more than one Eye liner I’m not one for tightlining (puting liner below the upper eyelashes). I could give a hundred reasons, from it not being particularly hygienic to it making the eyes look smaller. But the real reason is that I just can’t do it. Instead I took the eyeliner as close as possible to the lash line and kept it as thin as possible. Amazingly, I managed to do that most of the time. I toyed with the idea of applying liner with a small angled brush but it always went on too thickly. I found just a hint of liner worked best, something to offset the shimmer, not compete with it. I stayed away from the inner eye and focused instead on the outer edges with the barest hint of a wing where the outer eyelash naturally falls. I went with a softer brown or copper for day, black or, my current favourite, purple for nights out. WW WOMANSWAY.IE 27 could give a hundred reasons, from it not being particularly hygienic to it making the eyes look smaller. But the outer edges with the barest hint Powder or Cream? To be honest, I’m agnostic on this one. I generally found it easier to work with creams. I felt more in control of where they were going. There’s no avoiding an element of brushing with powders and I tended to get overloads of shimmer in one area which were surprisingly tricky to budge. At night I did use both - cream fi rst and then a similar shade in a powder. But I did try out every trick, tip and had to offer. And this Finding a good primer makes an amazing difference, even when you’re going for a subtle look. My eyes are crêpey these days and glitter has a habit of settling in all those tiny little wrinkles and making them seem even more pronounced. I realised after the fi rst week that no primer was ever going to give me perfectly smooth eyes again (I’m a slow learner, ladies), but a good base allows the sparkle to go on evenly and a bit more smoothly. Powder or Cream? To be honest, I’m agnostic on this one. I generally found it easier to work with creams. I felt more in control of where they were going. There’s no avoiding an element of brushing with powders and I tended to get overloads of shimmer in one area which were surprisingly tricky to budge. At night I did use both - cream fi rst and then a similar shade in a powder. Whenever I tried to incorporate more than one shade I just ended up with a splodgy mess of indeterminate colour. So I dabbed on - usually a cream or liquid - shadow evenly. During the day I kept the coverage light but, I must admit, amping it up for a night out was a joy. The key thing is to dab or pat, a single layer for a subtle shimmer, a few more layers for full-on glitterball or something in between. If you go too far (and of course I constantly did) just wipe away the excess with the back of your fi nger. Whenever I tried to incorporate more than one shade I just ended up with a splodgy mess of indeterminate colour. So I dabbed on - usually a cream or liquid - shadow evenly. During the day I kept the coverage light but, I must admit, amping it up for a night out was a joy. The key thing is to dab or pat, a single layer for a subtle shimmer, a few more layers for full-on glitterball or something in between. If you go too far (and Bellamianta Dreamy Creamy Sculpted by Aimee Concealer €16.94 Brighten Up Concealer €16 Mac Pro Paint Pot €26 Armani Eye Tint Liquid Shadow €34 Trinny London Eye2Eye Fortune €22 Blank Canvas E83 Tapered Blender €8 Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Eyeliner €30 26-27 WW14 Sparkling Eyes_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 26/06/2023 15:01

28 WOMANSWAY.IE Vintage There’s nothing more satisfying than fi nding treasure in the back of the wardrobe. Deputy editor Niamh O’Reilly dives in and shares her current style faves. I put no faith in the expression that if you wore a trend the fi rst time around, you don’t get to wear it the second time out. It’s complete and utter nonsense. The older I get, the more I believe there are no rules when it comes to style. These days I wear whatever the hell I want to. Working from home and juggling two young boys means most of the time, my style choices are casual. I love a dress or skirt with pockets, old jeans and vintage t-shirts. I do however have events and occasions to go to and, in that case, I try to upscale my casual pieces with a few dressy additions. A t-shirt with a smart blazer and a midi skirt can take me almost anywhere. While these days I love casual wear, in my 20s I was big into fashion. To be honest, I fell out of love with fashion a little after I had my two boys. My body didn’t really feel like my own and I didn’t have much time to think about clothes anymore. Strangely, it’s only now that I’ve turned 40 that I’ve got my grá back for it. Recently I’ve been having a rummage around in my folks’ attic where, like a lot of people, I still have boxes of my old clothes. Having lost a bit of weight over the last year, I’ve found that several of my old college clothes fi t me once again and you better believe I’m wearing those Noughties trends the second time around with absolute glee. Finds Jumpsuits Jumpsuits are, in my humble opinion, a fashion unicorn; stylish and comfortable. Many will disagree, but my love of a good jumpsuit is the style hill I’m willing to die on. It’s not just dungarees either, although I do love them. Jumpsuits are the ultimate multitasker. Shop what you already have in your wardrobe, and they become a totally different outfi t. Put a jumper over them in the cooler weather. Add a jacket, or a belt. Change up the shoes and add a statement necklace. Plus, they are not just for casual wear either. A simple black jumpsuit can be just as elegant as a little black dress. Whistles Danny Linen Jumpsuit €195 Oliver Bonas Lud Pebble Link Metallic Collar Necklace €33.50 Fat Face Aderyn Linen Blend Jumpsuit €99 New Look Black Tie Waist Wide Leg Jumpsuit €44.99 28 29 WW14 Style Faves SC2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 28/06/2023 15:42

WOMANSWAY.IE 29 STYLE FAVES Sandals As a former selfconfessed shoe addict, I never thought I’d see the day when my Birkenstock sandals were my shoe of choice, but since I bought a pair a few summers ago, I’ve become a convert. The Mayari style is my favourite, as it doesn’t have a toe post and the colours available are really feminine. What I will say is that you need to persevere a tiny bit at the start. Stick with it, wear them around preferably when your feet are a bit hot, and soon they will fi t like a glove. I’d wear them all year round if I didn’t get frostbite. They are also surprisingly versatile. I wear them with everything. Vintage fi nds I love a mooch in a vintage shop. There’s a super one in Bray called Finders Keepers and I got a denim pinafore dress in there a few weeks ago for €20. It’s a great feeling, but there is an element of luck with vintage shopping. The lack of sizes can be disheartening, and you do need to trawl. But when you do fi nd something, you know it’s a special one-off. Recently, I popped along to the opening of the new Penneys in Dundrum and inside they have a vintage concession called Wornwell, packed with pieces from the '70s, '80s and '90s. I still fi nd it hard to accept that the '90s are considered vintage, but here we are. Anyway, I found something I’ve been hunting down for ages, an authentic AC/DC tour t-shirt. I love nothing more than rocking out in the car to Long Way to The Top on the way home from the school run, and wearing this while doing it will take the rock aesthetic all the way up to eleven. It’s great with jeans obviously, but I like it with a denim midi skirt too or topping it with a contrasting jacket like tweed. Also, pair it with a long skirt in a different fabric like satin and it’s going to be perfect for a nighttime occasion too. Old denim Denim is a bit like a fi ne wine, or us women 40-plus; it gets better with age. Proper denim is almost like a living organism, the more you wear it the more it moulds to your body and jeans are the perfect example. I hate washing my jeans too often because they tend to lose their shape. Don’t get me wrong, I do wash them, probably more often than I want to, thanks to my two boys treating me like a human wet wipe. On my most recent attic rummage, I found my once-beloved Miss Sixty college jeans. These had not been on my backside in at least twenty years. They were the bomb back in the day. I tried them on for a laugh more than anything and was genuinely surprised that they fi t, plus the fl are design means they are fi rmly back in fashion. WW toe post and the colours available are really feminine. What I will say is that you need to persevere a tiny bit at the start. Stick with it, wear them around preferably when your feet are a bit hot, and soon they will fi t like a glove. I’d wear them all year round if I didn’t get frostbite. They are also surprisingly and inside they have a vintage concession vintage, but here we are. Anyway, I found Marks & Spencer Tweed Tailored Textured Blazer €110 Stradivarius Guns n’ Roses T-shirt €17.99 Wornwell Penneys Vintage AC/DC T-shirt €20 Mango Satin Pleated Skirt€35.99 Whistles Daisy Check Button Front Skirt €75, visit arnotts.ie Finders Keepers Vintage Denim Dress €20 Mango Denim Midi Skirt €29.99 Off White Check Bouclé Button Front Utility Jacket €64.99 New Look Birkenstocks €120 The Miss Sixty Vintage Jeans 28 29 WW14 Style Faves SC2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 28/06/2023 15:50

30 WOMANSWAY.IE Shine on Sequins aren’t just for winter. Niamh O’Reilly says summer is the perfect time to break out the glam. 30-31 WW14 Sequins_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 10:57

Zara Sequinned Cascading Earrings €17.95 Taylor Tulle Skirt With Sequin Lining Cream €45, memoriesboutique.ie Deb Fanning Millinery Electra Rainbow Beaded Crown €110 Next Sequin V-Neck Sleeveless Vest Top €46 WOMANSWAY.IE 31 STYLE I ’m a complete magpie. If it’s shiny, I must have it. And if, like me, you’ve got a whole heap of sequinand glitter-encrusted pieces hanging in your wardrobe collecting dust through the summer months, then it’s high time you got them out. Most of us associate glitter, sequins and metallics with the festive season. Dark nights, twinkling lights and parties. But there’s no rule to say you shouldn’t wear sequins in summer too. In fact, my philosophy is that when it comes to style, there are no rules whatsoever. Wear what makes you feel good. Period. Which brings me to sequins. I don’t know about you, but I adore throwing on my light gold sequin jacket, or the blazer of dreams as I call it at, any time of year. Even if I’m just taking a jaunt out for milk, when I put it on I instantly feel a million dollars. It can glam up anything from a pair of old denim shorts and a white t-shirt, to a plain, sleeveless, black summer dress in a fl ash. Not only do sequins give you a pep in your step, they also refl ect light back onto your face. The queen of working the power of sequins is the stunningly classy Helen Mirren. When she wears them they draw the glow to her face, bathing her in a fl attering light. Be smart and work your existing wardrobe. Pair that sequin skirt you love with a slightly oversized crisp white shirt or casual t-shirt and sandals. Or add a sequin kimono or sparkly top to some wide leg trousers you’ve already got on rotation. If you want to invest in something new, look out for a softer, lighter colour palette of sequins, with pale pinks, nudes and pastels, which make a nice change from the traditional heavy golds, black or red of wintertime. And you don’t have to go for all-over sequins either, as items with a few sequin details can often be even more eye-catching. Accessories are another great way to inject some glam without going overboard. WW memoriesboutique.ie Deb Fanning Millinery Electra Rainbow Beaded And if, like me, you’ve got a whole heap of sequinand glitter-encrusted pieces hanging in your wardrobe summer months, then it’s high Most of us associate glitter, sequins and metallics with the twinkling lights and parties. But there’s no rule to say you shouldn’t wear sequins in summer too. In fact, my philosophy is that when it Electra Rainbow Beaded Crown €110 comes to style, there are no rules whatsoever. Wear what makes you Which brings me to sequins. I don’t know about you, but I adore throwing on my light gold sequin jacket, or the blazer of dreams as I call it at, any time of year. Even if I’m just taking a jaunt out for milk, when I put it on I instantly feel a million dollars. It can glam up anything from a pair of old t-shirt, to a plain, sleeveless, black summer dress in a fl ash. Not only do sequins give you a pep in your step, they also refl ect light back onto your face. The queen of working the power of sequins is the Electra Rainbow Beaded Crown fact, my philosophy is that when it comes to style, there are no rules whatsoever. Wear what makes you Which brings me to sequins. I don’t know about you, but I adore Next Sequin V-Neck Sleeveless Vest Top €46 working the power of sequins is the stunningly classy Helen Mirren. When she wears them they draw the glow to her face, bathing her in Be smart and work your existing wardrobe. Pair that sequin skirt you love with a slightly oversized crisp white shirt or casual t-shirt and sandals. Or add a sequin kimono or sparkly top to some wide leg trousers you’ve already got on rotation. If you want to invest in something new, look out for a softer, lighter colour palette of sequins, with pale pinks, nudes and pastels, which make a nice change from the traditional heavy golds, black or red of wintertime. And you don’t have to go for all-over sequins either, as items with a few sequin details can often be even more eye-catching. Accessories are another great way to inject some glam without going working the power of sequins is the stunningly classy Helen Mirren. When she wears them they draw the glow to her face, bathing her in WOMANSWAY.IE 31 feel a million dollars. It can glam Not only do sequins give you a pep in your step, they also refl ect light back onto your face. The queen of working the power of sequins is the the glow to her face, bathing her in Ted Baker Baliner Sequin Detail Knit Cardigan €190 M&S Collection Sparkle Flat Mules €55 Silver & Brown Glitter Strap Mule Sandals in Extra Wide EEE Fit €34, yoursclothing.ie Oliver Bonas Floral Sequin Black Cropped Jacket €115 River Island Pink Sequin Floral Sleeveless Top €71 Dune London Loupe Silver €155 Mint Velvet Pale Gold Sequin T-Shirt €99, arnotts.ie Havaianas Sequin Flip Flops €35 Gabrielle Double Breasted Sequin Jacket €100, sheenasboutique.ie Daosa Sequins T-Shirt €215, willow.ie Phase Eight Medora Sequin Shirt €125 Michael Kors Grove Embellished Glitter Chain-Mesh Sneaker €87 River Island Orange Abstract Sequin Embellished Blouse €60 Stine Goya Isha Blue Sequin Top €210, macbees.ie Cora Sequin Kimono €70, selectboutique.ie 30-31 WW14 Sequins_ADKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 10:59

32 WOMANSWAY.IE For instance, at 18, I exchanged the Irish summer for Nice, alone, with about enough money to buy a croissant. While my wallet was empty, my heart was soon full because, within minutes of arriving, I’d fallen for the charms of a spirited Kilkenny girl named Éadaoín. When she married 10 years later, I had the honour of being a member of her bridal party. FRIENDS FOR LIFE Teresa Gomez, the award-winning travel blogger of Brogan Abroad, agrees. We met in given Deirdre’s non-conformist attitude. “Don’t depend on others, Don; if you want to do something in life, do it,” she once advised. Since then, I’ve always chased my goals, whether or not I enjoyed the approval, support or company of others. And never more so than when embracing my wanderlust, which I’ve regularly pursued independently since my teenage years. But since I’ve met some of my favourite people while trekking the world, I’ve learnt that travelling solo rarely means travelling alone. “Poor istheman whose pleasures dependon the permission of another,” Madonna crooned in her 1990 hit, Justify My Love. While the accompanying music video caused outrage, my interest was focused more on the song’s danceability. You see, when I was eight, my late sister, Deirdre, would summon me into our garden and choreograph routines to Madonna’s controversial discography. Along with striking poses, my older sibling would explain the song’s themes and regularly highlighted that lyric about refusing to seek another’s permission to live life to the fullest — unsurprising, THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED Travelling solo doesn’t mean travelling alone, writes Domhnall O’Donoghue. Domhnall O’Donoghue 32 33 WW14 Domhnall SC2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 11:06

WOMANSWAY.IE 33 TRAVEL “The people I met along the way, most of whom were travelling solo, made it an unforgettable experience, and we’ve become lifelong friends.” While travelling alone may feel daunting, Teresa insists that exploring unfamiliar places and discovering new cultures are so rewarding that “overcoming that initial fear is worth it.” She adds: “It’s a great lesson on how resourceful you are and the perfect way to reconnect with and nurture yourself, leading to personal growth. It’s the ultimate confi dence boost. And the more you do it, the more confi dent you’ll feel.” Earlier this year in Azerbaijan, I met Lucy Morgan, author of the hilarious Arbitrix Substack. Our shared love of divilment meant we connected instantly. Thanks to her husband’s role in the diplomatic service, Lucy and her family have lived across a trio of continents. Later, her work as a food and wine writer meant her passport continued to be put to good use when interviewing international Michelin-starred chefs. As a result of these experiences, 50-year-old Lucy now travels solo with confi dence and describes her adventures as “liberating and fulfi lling.”. She recommends destinations like Croatia, Madeira and the Canary and Balearic Islands, as they have excellent infrastructure in place for tourists, notably the sociable group tours. “If I want solitude, I can have it, but if I want company, I can have that, too,” she tells me. SAFETY FIRST Of course, Teresa and Lucy recognise that solo travel, especially among women, has challenges. “Safety is sadly something that we women must think about, always, whether we’re abroad or at home,” Teresa reveals. Lucy concedes that she must always have her wits about her when travelling and will always book into hotels where there’s a staff member available 24 hours in case of emergencies. “It’s the main downside; you can never switch off,” Lucy mentions. “I become hyper-vigilant, noticing people and landmarks and remembering the routes I’ve walked. If I need to look at Google Maps, I stand inside a doorway and then put my phone away again.” Teresa adds: “The most important thing is to listen to your instinct. If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from that situation.” While both praise social media as a means to document their experiences and interact with others, Teresa warns against sharing your live location. “Share your itinerary with your loved ones so they know where you are each day,” she recommends. “Some women fi nd wearing a fake wedding ring useful to deter unwanted attention; although, don’t travel with valuable jewellery to avoid becoming a target.” However, they note that once you take steps to ensure safety, the rewards of solo travel are manifold, and not only in terms of the friends you make. To paraphrase Madonna, you should never need anyone’s permission to enjoy life and have an adventure. WW Pittsburgh this summer and bonded over a mutual love of local artist, Andy Warhol. “When you travel with friends and family, you tend to just talk to each other. Solo travel almost forces you to make meaningful connections with others. But the beauty is that you don’t have to either if you don’t want to.” Teresa, who hails from Spain but lives in London, cites the Camino de Santiago as her most memorable solo trip, a 33-day hike from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in her home country. In Baku, Azerbaijan, with Lucy Morgan Domhnall and Teresa Gomez in Pittsburgh With Éadaoín Ní Chaoímh on her wedding day 32 33 WW14 Domhnall SC2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 11:06

By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA 34 WOMANSWAY.IE 1 Next Picnicware – Set of 4 Dinner Plates €26 Summer salads and slow days call for lightweight tableware, especially eyecatching designs like this, with a shiny fi nish to look and feel just so. 2 Annabel James Seashells Jug €21.05 plus delivery She sells seashells on the seashore… this Who doesn’t yearn for a more Mediterranean lifestyle every now and then? Whether or not a getaway is on the cards this summer, bringing those dreamy holiday vibes home with a style update is easier than you might think. “Pulling together a Mediterraneaninspired coastal scheme is all about perfecting an airy, bright feeling through the use of colour and material that harks back to ocean shores,” says Rohan Blacker, founder of Pooky. “A palette of cool blues and pared-back neutrals introduces a breath of fresh air into the home, and when paired with natural materials, it works to create this slightly bohemian beachside feeling.” Consider rustic rattan lamps, paired with beautiful linen shades in muted seascape tones too, Blacker suggests. Organic raffi a pendant designs also make easy additions, which will allow you to incorporate elements of a sunny coastal scheme through lighting changes alone. Helen Pett, Arteriors design ambassador, says: “When looking at furniture and lighting design, opt for statement pieces crafted with woven rattan or open-weave detailing, materials such as coconut shell or wooden beading. “Alternatively, a timeless colour choice for any coastal destination-inspired décor scheme introduces a pleasant combination of varying blues to mimic a summer sky, and the refl ective surface of the sea,” she adds. Here’s how to get the look… beautiful bone china jug is worth shelling out for. 3 Pooky Aphrodite Pendants; other items from a selection from €234.52 plus delivery with matching items available from Pooky Featuring an artisan woven effect and brass accents, these hanging pendants are right on point. Style up a summer escape at home, with 11 ways to dip into Mediterranean inspired décor. SEAS THE STYLE 1 2 5 34-35 WW14 Med style KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 11:08

By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA INTERIORS WOMANSWAY.IE 35 4 Decorative Tray Søstrene Grene €15.20 Favourite fi nds such as this woven tray imbibe thoughts of refreshing lemon sundowners in the sunshine. 5 DFS Hugh 4 Seater Sofa – Calix Boucle Ivory €1,229 with matching items available from DFS A sumptuous sofa like this makes a wonderful centrepiece, especially styled with mosaic print cushions, ocean blues and rattan accessories, for an airy, breezy aesthetic. 6 Raffi a Table Lamp €60, visit oxendales.ie Contemporary and cool, this clear glass lamp with raffi a shade will style up any space. 7 Next Collection Luxe Josie Frame in Wood and Cane from €800 A beautiful base to build around, this carved wood and cane bedframe – especially teamed with a jute carpet, ocean hues and sheer white curtains – is tailor-made for hot, sultry nights. 8 John Hanly Merino Large Throw Denim with White Stripe €150, visit kilkennydesign.com The fi nishing touch to dressing the bed à la Med? A tufted blue throw strewn across crisp linen sheets. 9 Beach House Art Indigo Seaweed Print Wall Art €21.95 each unframed Beachcombers will be drawn to these pretty artwork prints. 10 Decorata Design 09 from €1.89 per tile, visit tilestyle.ie Suitable for kitchen, dining and bathroom schemes, this modish motif makes a real feature. 11 Teak Wooden Garden Armchair Diama €224.95, visit sklum.com This accent chair with woven rope design will style up your suntrap and bring smiles all round. WW 3 4 6 7 8 9 34-35 WW14 Med style KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 11:10

36 WOMANSWAY.IE Alysha Alli With sunshine and blue skies around, there couldn’t be a better time to refresh your interiors. And Alysha Alli, who heads up the interior design team for Redrow, recommends “balancing the warm outside with fresh décor inside.” From tones and textures to ornaments and aesthetics, she says fi nding a style that complements your unique personality is essential to perfecting your interiors this summer. “Our homes have an undeniable impact on our wellbeing, so it’s important interior design incorporates elements of nature during the summer to help boost our energy,” suggests Alli. Here, she shares some key elements to help you get the right vibe… These expert styling tips and sunny homewares will have inyour home summer ready. Let the Sunshine GO LUXE-BOHO Layer patterned and textured throws with tassels and washed-out prints in natural fabrics like linen and 100 per cent natural cottons, says Alli. “Aesthetics that embrace imperfections are entirely on trend, so observe your space and see where you can incorporate sustainable pieces such as hand-crafted ceramics too, then fi ll these with tall pampas and tactile bunny tail grasses for a gentle texture and aesthetic.” 36-37 WW14 Summer updates KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 11:12

By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA INTERIORS WOMANSWAY.IE 37 SWITCH TO VIVACIOUS COLOURS Think peachy tones and luminous apricot paint fi nishes, refreshing hues which Alli says awake the senses. “While it may not be the obvious choice for everyone, when paired with the right grounding pieces of furniture such as a bouclé or rattan accent armchair, it makes your interior feel contemporary and alive.” Take this a step further by complementing your design with an irregularly-shaped mirror. “Balancing the straight lines of contemporary furniture with the rounded nature of accent pieces will draw attention to their detailed design and create contrast,” adds Alli. BRING THE OUTDOORS IN Alli says feature wallpapers in matching natural colours, from forest hues to more subdued olive greens, will introduce a fl ow of serenity across your interiors. “Tones of green are also known to boost positivity and promote calmness throughout the home,” she adds. Depending on your budget, she suggests placing a khaki rug under a rich walnut coffee table for a warm aesthetic. “Exploring these deep earth tones and mixing with botanical greens really brings the beauty of nature into your space.” ADD POPS OF COLOUR AROUND THE HOME When creating more social and entertaining spaces, bursts of colour help bring rooms to life. With blooms fl ourishing in warmer weather, think about adding fresh fl owers into an earthy rotund vase, suggests Alli. When arranging fl owers, she likes to create a greenery base using foliage such as ivy, moss, eucalyptus or fern, then adds focal fl owers and fi ller fl owers into the gaps – aiming for a dome shape. Another way to boost your wellbeing and colour code is with funky photograph frames mounted with summer holiday snaps. If you’re looking to do something larger and more impressive, Alli suggests creating a cosy reading nook; or transforming your offi ce space with Seventies-inspired furniture shaping. And who can resist a rattan weave retro style egg chair to chill out in? MAKE INDOOR PLANTS A CENTREPIECE Plants can complement natural materials such as real woods, ceramics and natural stones, Alli highlights. “Go for a cluster of different heights, ensuring the tallest is at the back of an arrangement, placed directly in the corner of your room on the opposing side of entry. “This will make your space appear more spacious and airier, perfect for cooling down the temperature.” She says cacti also look perfect catching the light on a bright en suite or main bathroom windowsill. If this space doesn’t get a lot of natural light, try aloe vera, which thrives in humid conditions. WW 36-37 WW14 Summer updates KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 11:13

38 WOMANSWAY.IE and listen to the ocean waves. This is my utopia. Like many of you, I don’t always have the time for an extended holiday, so fi nding that perfect long weekend for a quick sun-boost is always on the list. I love great adventures, exploring countries and cultures, but sometimes I just want to stop the world spinning. My choice for the perfect pause in my whirlwind life is almost always Portugal. When I crave endless sunny days, a pool to fl op at and some great books to plough through, this is my go-to place. On this trip, I discovered the perfect Portuguese location and a way to stretch out a long weekend in the sun with maximum holiday time and minimum cost. Heading out in the early hours on Friday morning for a fl ight at 7:35am may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I am an early riser. I love that in the same amount of time it takes to do my morning walk, I can fl y to a beautiful destination and have the whole day ahead of me. By 11 o’clock, we were checking in to the spruced-up and ultra-elegant Tivoli Marina Holidays are about relaxing but, in our busy world, they are also about recalibrating our mental wellbeing and engaging in mood-enhancing activities that reconnect us to the wonders of life. Being outdoors, breathing in cleaner air and feeling the sun on our face is a great way to reduce stress levels and increase our happiness hormones. Even better when you set up camp next to the sea, swim in beautiful clear waters Vilamoura with the sun splitting the heavens and the sea beckoning through the vast glass walls. I left on a late fl ight on Sunday evening at 9pm, and in between had three full days of adventure and fi ne dining, explored the islands and the beautiful Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and still had a full day in the sun at the hotel’s glamorous Purobeach Club. REFURBISHMENT As well as being home to a beautiful beach and marina, Vilamoura is a magnet for golf-lovers and foodies. There is plenty of nightlife with bustling bars and restaurants surrounding the yacht-fi llled marina. At its heart is the classy Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort. I visited a few years ago and it was fab then, but the revamp and extensive redesign has defi nitely boosted the wow factor with an interior in harmony with the beautiful vista. The spectacular sloping sky-high glass walls of the entrance lobby make the most of the hotel’s unrivalled VILAMOURA Viva Frequent solo traveller Norah Casey explores Portugal’s world-class Vilamoura Marina from the perfect vantage point of the majestic and newly-refurbished Tivoli Marina resort overlooking the azure blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Tivoli Marina, Vilamoura 38-41 WW14 Villamoura KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 11:14

TRAVEL WOMANSWAY.IE 39 Continued overleaf >> location with the pristine white yachts of the marina to one side and the gardens, beach and twinkling blue sea beyond on the other. The pool has been redesigned and the Argo Cocktail Bar revamped with the coastal Algarvian theme refl ected in the textures, hues, striped fabrics and natural wood and rattan in the bedrooms (383, including 21 suites). The Tivoli Spa is an oasis of serenity with local ingredients showcased in the many and varied treatments. I drifted off during a blissful massage. Everything is up a notch or three, including the fi ne dining at Pepper’s Steakhouse. Breakfast is served with a view at the Voyage restaurant where the Algarve meets Moorish-infl uenced décor with natural woods and bamboo chairs blended with walls of nautical blue and white stripes. From colourful macarons on display at the The Glee Boutique Café in the light-fi lled expansive lobby to the internal tropical garden, the entrance to the Tivoli is pretty impressive. It is equally matched by the refurbished tropical gardens, shaded by 70 new palm trees, and the redesigned sky-blue pool, which is a lovely little oasis of relaxation away from the bustling marina and the ultra-white sun loungers and parasols of Purobeach. What did we get up to for the perfect long weekend?… DAY 1 I landed at Faro airport at around 10:30am and in just over half an hour, I was marvelling at the stunning lobby at Tivoli Marina Vilamoura. There is a beautiful synchronicity between the contemporary glass walls, the rich tropical planting inside and out and the dramatic views. It was created to work in harmony with the surroundings. From the moment you arrive, the service is exemplary – having spent many years travel writing, I appreciate far more now the importance of arrivals and departures at a destination. A “There is a beautiful synchronicity between the glass walls, the rich tropical planting inside and out” Tivoli Marina, Vilamoura Family Room, Marina View Tivoli Marina, Vilamoura Lounge Purobeach breakfast table sea view Tivoli Marina Spa Relaxation Area Glee Boutique Café Afternoon Tea 38-41 WW14 Villamoura KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 17:02

40 WOMANSWAY.IE welcome cocktail and hassle-free check-in at the Tivoli Marina puts you at ease from the outset. While the striking exterior is evocative of the yacht-fi lled marina, the beautiful grandeur of the interior space is elegant and muted. After a glorious lunch at the pool-side Oregano Restaurant in the sunshine, we had a whistle-stop orientation tour of the expansive grounds, pools, bars, restaurants and, of course, the glorious sandy beach. Then the real treat for tired early-morning travellers, the Tivoli Fusion massage, which (as the name implies) blends oriental stretching and acupressure points with traditional Swedish full-body massage and a warming mud mask applied to ease those aches and pains. Bliss… and the perfect energiser for the evening ahead. On the menu was an incredible high-table dinner at Pepper’s Steakhouse. CULINARY PIZZAZZ I'm a committed foodie, so my idea of heaven is enjoying beautifully-cooked food with the fi nest of ingredients (local of course), with the chef right there at the table bringing the meal to life with anecdotes about the suppliers and the marriage of tastes and fl avours. Chef André Basto is a true Oporto man who served his time at stellar kitchens in the likes of Hotel Le Bristol Paris with three Michelin stars and the Franska Matsalen Grand Hotel Stockholm. We started with the unlikely, but superb, pairing of gorgonzola ice cream, heritage cherry tomatoes, pine nuts and pistachios. The sommelier, Eduardo Amaral, also joined us between courses to proudly deliver, with enthusiasm and knowledge, the notes of the perfect wine matches he had selected to complement the food. We sipped a little Soalheiro Bruto Rosé - light and fi zzy, followed by a 2019 bold and zesty Portuguese white wine, Scala Coeli Encruzado, produced at the Cartuxa Winery. It was a perfect companion to the second course of scallop tartare with Osetra caviar (the best) in kombu (edible kelp) and gold leaf. Like all great productions, the main course was the star of the show, Chateaubriand served with a double magnum of Pintas Character Red Pintas 2020 opened and decanted by Eduardo with a theatrical fl ourish. Dessert was a contemporary take on the classical Poire Belle-Hélène with a fi ne port, the Quinta Vale D., to fi nish. Pepper's Steakhouse is well worth a visit for a special occasion or just because you’re worth it. DAY 2 RIAFRESH A trip to this oasis of marine vegetable cultivation set the context of how the pristine waters of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve delivers unique sea horticulture that enhances local dishes and even cocktail Tivoli Marina Restaurant Chef André Basto Our skipper and chef Café Marretas Sommelier Eduardo Amaral 38-41 WW14 Villamoura KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 4 27/06/2023 11:14

TRAVEL WOMANSWAY.IE 41 Need to know Rates at Tivoli Marina Vilamoura start from €300 per night, for a Premium Room including breakfast for two people. For more visit tivolihotels.com fl avours (riafresh.com). This innovative project supplies the Tivoli Marina’s bars and restaurants (and many others) with a wide range of sea vegetables from Glacial Lettuce to Golden Samphire. We got to sample them all and learn more about sustainable marine vegetable harvesting. It added depth to our trip out to the natural waters of the Algarve and challenged our taste buds with new fl avours and textures. DESERTED ISLANDS Next stop was Olhao Harbour. Few people who head to this part of the Algarve visit or even know about the incredible remote islands of Armona, Culatra, Farol and Deserta, just off the coast and all part of the beautiful Ria Formosa Natural Park. There are great walks and even better swimming on the islands, and on the journey out, the azure waters and pristine sandbanks are more reminiscent of the Caribbean than the Atlantic. This is one of the highlights of every visit for me, cruising through the salt pans, lagoons and sandbars, watching the coastal birds (hundreds in this protected area from egrets to fl amingos), visiting the oyster beds and watching local fi shermen pulling the lobster pots and collecting clams. After a leisurely boat trip, we arrived at Ilha da Culatra for lunch at Café Marretas (telephone +351 964 850 981). We ate like the locals, fresh fi sh - whatever was caught that day - was posted on the blackboard, served with large jugs of chilled vinho verde wine and sangria. It is well worth stopping at this beautiful unspoilt island to enjoy a plate of oysters or the freshest of sea bass, served with a large slice of sunshine. The boat trip to Ria Formosa costs €45 per person “The azure waters and pristine sandbanks are more reminiscent of the Caribbean than the Atlantic” for a fi ve-hour trip. You can book with the hotel concierge. COCKTAIL DINATOIRE A fi rst for me, but apparently the French created the cocktail dinatoire (also called apéritif dinatoire) as an occasion where drinks are served alongside substantial canapés. We enjoyed it in any event. The swanky signature Argo Cocktail Bar takes inspiration from the Argonauts' expeditions and comes to life as the sun goes down and the twinkling lights of the Marina create a magical backdrop. The cocktails refl ect the Argonaut legend with names like Olympus, the refreshing Golden Fleece or the signature Sailor’s Death cocktail. We nibbled on small plates and tasted sublime concoctions created by head bartender and mixologist, Nelson de Matos, while happily chatting about our day’s adventure on the ocean waves. DAY 3 PUROBEACH CLUB One of the jewels in the crown of the Tivoli Marina Vilamoura is this glamorous Mediterranean-style beach club with a great restaurant (fresh lobster salad and champagne), music from the resident DJ and the option of relaxing poolside in the hotel gardens. On our last day, the sun shone in a cloudless sky and we sipped a little fi zz on our pristine white loungers and teak sunbeds. Rattan parasols provided the shade, and the view was courtesy of the magnifi cent Purobeach Vilamoura beachfront entrance The Argo Cocktail Bar blue ocean lapping on the shores of the beach. Pure white tablecloths, cushions, chairs and natural furnishings adorned the Purobeach Restaurant with a menu inspired by the 3 Ms – Melbourne, Marrakesh and Miami. It was a beautiful ending to a perfect weekend. Book in advance at purobeach.com. Vilamoura provides the perfect blank canvas for adventure and activity as more of us crave immersive holidays and individual experiences that refl ect our zest for life. When we return after that much-longed-for break, it always feels good if we can say in heartfelt truth: “I feel well-rested and ready for the next chapter.” That’s the best feeling ever. WW Riafresh ice lettuce The Argo Cocktail Bar cocktail 38-41 WW14 Villamoura KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 5 27/06/2023 11:15

42 WOMANSWAY.IE By Sarah Marshall, PA and B, train travel is just as much about the journey, watching scenes unfurl through glass windows while enjoying the slower passage of time. If you’re keen to hit the tracks this summer, here are a few holidays to try… Scenic superstar: Switzerland Duration: 9 days From snow-capped mountains to glittering lakes, land-locked Switzerland has no shortage of astounding views. Take them all in on a rail journey across the country, stopping to overnight in a selection of boutique hotels. Traverse gorges and glaciers along Europe’s highest rail trails on the Bernina Express railway line, classifi ed a Unesco World Heritage site, and admire the beauty of the Alps on Aresurgence in train travel provides greener – and often cheaper – ways to explore the continent this summer. Throughout the 19th Century, it was full steam ahead for train routes across Western Europe. Moving between destinations by rail was seen as a comfortable and convenient way to travel. But the advent of the aeroplane left most rail routes out in the cold. In the last few years, however, there’s been a revival of interest in forgotten tracks, as people seek out greener alternatives to fl ying. More overnight sleeper trains, better connections and value passes are now on offer in many European countries. More than joining the dots between A the the Glacier Express. The no-fl y route passes through Zurich, Zermatt, St Moritz, Lugano, Lucerne and ends in Dijon, one of the wine capitals of France. How to book: Visit wexas.com Pilgrim’s choice: Spain Duration: 9 nights If you don’t have the appropriate fi tness levels or 30 days to spare, opt to do northern Spain’s famous pilgrimage route by rail. Work your way through fi ve gastronomically-rich cities featured on the classic Camino de Santiago, passing through the vast plains of the central region to the rivers and steep slopes of Ribeira Sacra, fi nally ending in the green landscapes of Galicia. Visit Bilbao, home to the Guggenheim; Burgos, the birthplace ABOARD All The best European train journeys to take this summer for a greener way to explore. The Landwasser Viaduct, Bernina Express, Switzerland 42-43 WW14 European rail KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 11:16

TRAVEL WOMANSWAY.IE 43 By Sarah Marshall, PA of El Cid; Leon, with architecture by Antoni Gaudi; and lesser-known Monforte de Lemos – a fortress transformed into a parador, where it’s possible to stay the night. How to book: Visit inntravel.co.uk Route to romance: Italy Duration: 9 days Criss-crossing the country, a network of rail links connects some of Italy’s most famous cities. Add an extra layer of love to places already steeped in romance by revelling in a mode of transport used for decades. Start a journey on the waterways of Venice, exploring the history and architecture of the Serenissima, then continue to Verona, where one of the most famous love tragedies unfolded. Visit spots featured in Shakespeare’s classic Romeo and Juliet, before heading to the sparkling shores of Lake Garda. Anyone feeling energetic can head into the Dolomite Mountains for superb views across the Lake. How to book: Visit citalia.com Classic vintage: France Duration: 6 nights There’s no risk of going over the limit on a wine-themed trip by train. From the Champagne caves of Epernay to the vineyards of Bordeaux, discover where some of the fi nest French vintages are produced. Starting in historic Reims, take a guided tour of the city’s Gothic architecture. Then continue to Hautvillers village, where the monk Dom Perignon fi rst discovered the champagne wine-making process, for a full-day Champagne Discovery Tour. Use e-bikes to explore the vineyards of Médoc, and fi nish the trip in style with a visit to SaintÉmilion, the oldest wine area of the Bordeaux region. WW How to book: Visit wexas.com “Train travel is about the journey, watching scenes unfurl through glass windows and the slower passage of time” The Guggenheim Museum of Bilbao Verona train station The Juliet statue at Juliet's House in Verona Bordeaux's vineyards 42-43 WW14 European rail KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 11:16

44 WOMANSWAY.IE Dunadry is owned by the McKeever family who have a range of other properties, including Dillons Hotel in Letterkenny, County Donegal. They’ve invested heavily in Dunadry and it shows. For all the graceful décor, there’s a friendly laid-back feel of a family-run establishment. Daughter Bridgene is clearly passionate about maintaining that friendly atmosphere and providing guests with plenty to do in and around the area. Antrim is a spectacular county and one that deserves to be explored more. There are, of course, the major attractions of the Giant’s Causeway and, more recently, the Game of Thrones fi lming spots. But there are plenty of lesser-known areas that are more than worth a visit. The Glens of Antrim, an area that spreads towards the coast, is simply stunning. A drive along the coast itself should be on every Irish person’s bucket list. There are beautfi ul beaches, breathtaking clifftop walks and extraordinary scenery. Closer to Dunadry sit the remains of Antrim Castle, the grounds of which have been beautifully revamped and reimagined. This is a lovely spot for a coffee and a stroll. There’s the Diarmuid J ust 20 minutes west of Belfast, Dunadry Hotel and Gardens is a lovely combo of quiet elegance and cosy comfort. A former linen mill back in the day, it’s really a series of adjoining buildings set around lush gardens, lending a generous sense of spaciousness and privacy. The star of the show is without doubt, the resident peacock, Picasso, and his family (peahen and three offspring) who obligingly fl ashes his feathers at regular intervals, fully aware of his Insta-infl uencer status. The main reception area has an oldschool feel with a fi replace from nearby Antrim Castle and an old Steinway piano. A winding staircase leads up to a private dining area on a mezzanine overlooking the lobby. This features the wooden beetling (the fi nal stage of linenmaking) from the mill it once was. From here, a series of corridors lead to the various other buildings, housing the main bar and dining room, as well as the bedrooms, all of which circle around a vivid green lawn where the peacock stalks. These areas have a more modern, open-plan vibe in tune with the beautiful garden views. The North is little explored by those of us living south of the border. That's a shame because there are some real gems to be found including the relatively newly-renovated Dunadry Hotel and Gardens in County Antrim, writes Carissa Casey. GOING NORTH Gavin-designed Clockwork Garden, a lime avenue, plenty of woodland walks and charming planting. The castle itself was burnt down in the War of Independence but its old footprint is still visible. Belfast is just a short hop away and a buzzing city with plenty of great shops, restaurants and bars. On our stay we were treated to a sampling session with the Belfast Artisan Gin School which also allows visitors to create their very own gin. The hotel is planning lots more partnerships like this. And once you’ve explored and sampled your way through all that Dunadry has to offer, take time out to just chill and watch Picasso the Peacock strut his stuff. WW Antrim Castle Gardens Dunadry Cottage The pool 44 WW14 Travel - Dunadry KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 28/06/2023 16:06

WOMANSWAY.IE 45 TRAVEL gin, super spa treatments… the kind of things we females tend to love. And the overall atmosphere is a lot less stuffy and a lot more fun. While large parts of the building have undergone a pretty extensive refurbishment, it still has that old-school charm. It was once the home of the Barton wine-making family, who laid out the exquisite gardens. The main reception rooms and lounges are graceful and chic; the bedrooms ooze understated luxury. My visit started with a short walk through the gardens, along a winding path, over a tiny bridge for brunch at South, a relatively new addition to the estate, just south of the estate’s private mile-long stretch of the River Liffey. (You can also drive but it was a gorgeous sunny day). It’s a relaxed spot with an outdoor terrace overlooking one of the two championship golf courses on the estate. After a chill cocktail, it was time for a Natura Blisse Facial at the K-Spa, located back nearer the hotel. Skin a-glow, we headed for a private tour of the wine cellar in the company of sommelier. Lisa O’Doherty. This was a serious treat. The cellars date back to the days when the Barton family were in charge, and Lisa is a woman who knows her wines and isn’t the slightest bit pompous about it. She personally makes I t’s probably fair to say that most of us have always imagined the K Club as a supremely elegant but rigidly formal hotel, with Logan Roy style magnates stalking the corridors and suites barking at minions and generally terrifying mere mortal guests. But since being bought a few years back by businessman Michael Fetherston, it’s undergone something of a transformation. The 550-acre estate in Straffan, County Meath, is still supremely elegant, but it’s defi nitely rocking a far more relaxed, friendly vibe. According to marketing manager Orla Canavan, who started work there as a waitress, the one-time mecca of golf-loving magnates now sees itself as a resort and is making a determined effort to be woman-friendly. The staff are as effi cient as ever but chatty with it. There are a range of dining options from uber cool casual to gourmet intimacy, a lovely range of indoor and outdoor drinking spots, signature cocktails, its very own The K Club has reinvented itself and is appealing to a whole new market. Carissa Casey checks out the changes. OH-K the K Club gin and devises the signature cocktails, as well as being a wealth of information on everything from how wine should be stored, how the wine market works and just how much some people will pay for a rare bottle (and they often don’t even drink it). Just a little tipsy on champagne, we headed for the Barton Restaurant with its crisp white linens and fresh fl ower arrangements. Unbelievably, Lisa took time out to serve us our wine. The food was superb with a strong emphasis on local produce, as you might expect. Afterwards it seemed rude not to try the K Club's signature cocktail in the Blue Martini bar and I am polite to a fault. The entire stay was a delight from start to fi nish and not a Logan Roy in sight. WW The K Club Drawing Room Wine Tasting Experience 45 WW14 Travel K Club KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 28/06/2023 16:28

46 WOMANSWAY.IE Check out our review of the second season of And Just Like That, the latest shows, movies, on-stage events and as always, our picks of the best new books. Hot List The 5 NEW BOOKS TO READ THIS WEEK READ • WATCH • LISTEN By Prudence Wade and Niamh O’Reilly FICTION Everything’s Fine by Cecilia Rabess is published in hardback by Picador, priced €21.25 Cecilia Rabess’s debut novel Everything’s Fine has already caused quite a stir online. If it isn’t already at the top of your summer reading list, then it should be. To call it a romance would do the novel a disservice; it is much more complex than that. It highlights a necessary and familiar debate, how do you square the circle of having vastly different political beliefs to your loved ones? Jess, who is black and Josh, who is white, fi rst meet at university, and once again when they start working at Goldman Sachs. Their working relationship blossoms into a friendship and then, inevitably, a relationship. The novel attempts to reckon with America’s not-too-distant past and shows the polarisation experienced by American society in the dawn of the Trump age with the eventual strain in the protagonists’ relationship. Intensely readable and relatable, with snappy, smart dialogue, you will stay up to the wee hours devouring this. The Fire by Daniela Krien is published in hardback by MacLehose Press, priced €21.25 Don’t go into The Fire expecting a fast-paced, plot-driven book. Instead, it’s a deeply engaging look at one woman’s experience of middle age. Set over three weeks in a remote country house in Germany, Rahel fi nds herself at a crossroads with her husband Peter: does she still love him? Does he still want her? This is a subdued book, but that doesn’t make it any less captivating. Through Rahel’s not always likable but very realistic perspective, we learn about her complex relationship with her children and the changing world around her as someone who grew up in a divided Germany. It’s beautifully written, subtle and shines a light on the feelings and desires of middle-aged women, a group too often ignored. The Summer Skies by Jenny Colgan is published in hardback by Sphere, priced €18.75 Third-generation pilot Morag is ticking off what she’s internalised as a good life: a nice boyfriend, a well-paid promotion and the glamour of long haul. Then her Scottish roots call her home for one last job for her family-owned, islandhopping fl ight path. Jenny Colgan’s portrayal of the highland archipelago is beautifully done, while the characterisation has real warmth, and Morag comes alive when she fi nds herself off the grid and at the mercy of nature on the island of Inchborn. The Summer Skies takes at least 100 pages to draw you in but when it fi nally does, it’s full of comedic details, thought-provoking questions about identity, inner strength and life’s pivotal moments. The ending may have that romantic-comedy predictability but you’ll be racing through the pages to get there nonetheless and possibly booking a holiday to the northern Scottish islands too. NON-FICTION Fearless: Adventures with Extraordinary Women by Louise Minchin is published in hardback by Bloomsbury Sport, priced €23.75 It wasn’t enough for former BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Minchin to write true stories of women who have taken on mega-challenges, including freediving in Finland’s ice and swimming in the shark-invested waters of Alcatraz. Oh no, the broadcaster and triathlete was going to do it with them. Over 17 chapters, each charting a different adventure, this book celebrates the bravery of these women of all backgrounds, religions, ages, shapes and sizes, as she joins them in everything from wild caving in the Mendip Hills to diving under a one-metre cut-out of ice in the centre of a frozen lake, to emerge out of another ice hole 15 metres away. Many adventures are terrifying, some are painful, all are exhilarating. It’s interesting, too, that her back story for doing the book stems partly from her BBC battles over male-dominated adventure stories, when she felt women’s feats should be equally highlighted. It’ll leave you feeling inspired, thrilled and utterly exhausted. CHILDREN’S BOOK OF THE WEEK The Slug and the Snail by Oein DeBhairduin and illustrated by Olya Animaisis, published by Little Island Books and Skein Press, priced €16.99. Out July 6 Drawn from the Irish Traveller storytelling tradition, this beautifullyillustrated book is a gentle tale about difference, self-acceptance and different ways of seeing the world. Two brother slugs happily travel the road together until they meet a crow who shows them that they have no home. One slug is unbothered, whereas the other makes himself a home out of a shell. The two brothers become suspicious of each other and grow apart, but they come to realise that different ways of living doesn't mean that they can't still have a good relationship. WW by Oein DeBhairduin and illustrated by Olya Animaisis, published Drawn from the Irish Traveller storytelling tradition, this beautifullyFearless: Adventures with by Daniela Krien is published 46 WW14 Books KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 13:00

WOMANSWAY.IE 47 HOT LIST For all the faults of season one of And just Like That, I was still excited for series two. For me, there is something magical about the core group of characters and the city they live in, which, in my mind, is as much a star as the women themselves. My love is largely due to nostalgia, but in fact what I like even more is that now that they’ve aged, it’s a chance to watch successful, ambitious, confi dent women in their midfi fties and beyond, rock it on screen. Series one missed a trick, however. At times it portrayed our once-savvy women as out of touch, for example not knowing what a podcast was, dealing with (shock horror) grey hair and desperately trying and failing to get on board the woke train. Thankfully series two is an improvement. The new women introduced last season, Charlotte’s pal Lisa (Nicole Ari Parker), Samantha 2.0 Seema (Sarita Choudhury) and law professor Nya (Karen Pittman) all work much better this time around. There’s also a lot more sex. Last season was pointedly lacking in what made the original great and, this time, there’s more often-funny bedroom action. High-end estate agent Seema dates a man who uses a penis pump and Carrie is having no-strings attached fun with her podcast producer Franklyn (Ivan Hernandez). Charlotte is buying condoms for her teenage daughter who wants to lose her virginity, and perhaps the most interesting storyline is Miranda and Che trying to make their new relationship work. There’s still something off about it all though and there was a lot of criticism levelled at series one. It was labelled out of touch, clunky and the disgusting level of wealth on show was cringeworthy. A lot of the awkwardness has been fi xed this time, but the fi lthy rich opulence is back, and even fi lthier than before. Invites to the Met Gala, huge Manhattan apartments, walkin closets bigger than most houses and mountains of designer clothes. But here’s the thing, Sex and the City was always fantasy. How Carrie could afford her brownstone apartment and her boxes of Manolos at $400 a pop, by simply writing a weekly column for a city rag, was the stuff of makebelieve. And Just Like That is the same, and you’ve almost got to suspend your disbelief in the same way you would watching a Marvel character fl y. Yes, it has its faults. Yes, I enjoyed it. More than I should. Carrie in her old apartment. The appearance of Aidan (John Corbett), who, in my opinion, was always 'the one' and yes, it’s true there is a short cameo by Samantha, albeit by phone too. It will be interesting to see if they go for a third series and fi nd their stride. WW Showing on Sky Comedy and NOW TV Carrie and co are back for season two of And Just Like That. But can it make up for season one’s errors? Niamh O’Reilly fi nds out. Girls Sarah Jessica Parker and Sarita Choudhury Nicole Ari Parker, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kristin Davis and Karen Pittman the Here Come 47 WW14 hotlist review KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 29/06/2023 14:31

48 WOMANSWAY.IE Hot Right Now… CINEMA TRIP Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny I have to preface this by saying I am a diehard Indy fan. I grew up on the original films and, in my mind, they can do no wrong. There have been many imitations of the special Indiana Jones formula over the years, but nothing has come close to the magical mix of Harrison Ford, global adventure and his fedora. 2008’s The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull disappointed, but Indy five brings us back to what the archaeologist does best. Kicking Nazi ass. The film is set in 1969 and we see Jones facing retirement and the realisation that his adventuring days are behind him. That is until his goddaughter Helena Shaw, played by the excellent Phoebe Waller-Bridge, shows up asking about the Archimedes Dial and one last adventure is on the cards. It's huge fun and has a lot of nods to the magic of the original. Plus, thanks to some nifty de-ageing tricks, we get a sweet flashback sequence to 1944 and an in-his-prime Indy facing off against the bad guys. While it doesn’t recapture the magic of the original trilogy, it’s still a vast improvement on Indy four and is well worth a trip to the cinema in your fedora. In cinemas now TV PICKS Hijack If there’s one person you’d want to be there to save you during a mid-air hijack, it’s probably Idris Elba. Told in real time, over seven episodes, Hijack is the ideal slice of high-octane From big screen popcorn flicks, to some top class family events and everything in between, Niamh O’Reilly’s got lots to keep you entertained this fortnight. Idris Elba in Hijack Ethann Isidore, Harrison Ford and Phoebe WallerBridge in Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny summer action. During a seven-hour flight to London, Elba’s Sam Nelson swings into action to try and save the lives of the passengers on board. Fans of noughties hit, 24, will love the approach, with lots of red herrings and twists as the passengers try to outwit the hijackers. 48-49 WW14 Hot Right Now KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 13:03

WOMANSWAY.IE 49 HOT LIST We also get the perspective from the ground with Archie Panjabi as Zahra Gahfoor, playing a counterterrorism officer who becomes part of the investigation. While it might have made a better two-hour movie, it’s still a gripping watch and Elba is on top form. Streaming on AppleTV+ The Horror of Dolores Roach Based on the fiction podcast series of the same name, this TV adaptation is wicked fun. If you missed the podcast, the story is a sort of modern take on Sweeney Todd. Yes the Demon Barber of Fleet Street who, with the help of Mrs Lovett, put people into pies. The TV adaptation stars Justina Machado as Dolores, who has just been released from prison and wants to restart her life in Washington Heights. She starts working as a rather popular masseuse under her friend Luis’ (Alejandro Hernandez) empanada shop. However, when a massage customer gets ‘handy,’ things take a murderous turn. It’s packed with some great dark comedy and a sparky centre partnership between Machado and Hernandez. Streaming on Prime Video July 7 DOCUMENTARIES WHAM! Those of us who were around in the '80s will no doubt remember the upbeat, high energy and feelgood beats of WHAM! For four years from 1982-1986, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley reigned supreme as the pop duo. It’s easy to forget how big they became. They were the first mainstream Western pop act to play in China and had a string of hits like Club Tropicana and Wake Me Up Before You Go Go. This documentary brings us their story, from teenage best friends to global superstars. Using a mix of new and previously unheard interviews spliced over archive footage, the film is a real homage to why we all fell in love with WHAM! in the first place. Streaming on Netflix July 5 ON STAGE Winnie the Pooh Winnie the Pooh is one of those timeless characters that evokes nostalgia for the old and magic for the young. This new musical version of the fun from Hundred Acre Wood is coming to the stage in Bord Gáis Energy later George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley this month. Told using life-sized puppets, you can expect all the beloved stars, including the bear himself andTigger, Piglet and Peter, as well as the Sherman Brothers’ classic Grammy Award-winning music with further songs by A.A. Milne. A nice one for the whole family, it’s 55 minutes with no interval, so even the really small members of the gang can enjoy it. Running at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre from July 28-30 Justina Machado and Alejandro Hernandez in The Horror of Dolores Roach Benjamin Durham and Lottie Grogan in Winnie the Pooh Ardnaculla Summer School EVENTS Ardnaculla Summer School Those interested in conservation, biodiversity and nature in general will love this innovative three-day event taking place in Co Clare. Hosted by the not-for-profit organisation, Hometree, it will see a host of workshops, discussions and events. Speakers include surfer, scientist and explorer, Easkey Britton; writer and documentary-maker, Manchán Magan; sustainability researcher and lecturer, Dr Niall Ó Brolcháin, as well as wildlife rangers, Tim and Barry O’Donoghue. Hometree has ambitions to create 4,000 acres of Atlantic rainforest along the west coast of Ireland, and have already secured two sites in Galway and Sligo. In a nice touch for families, the event will also have a Forest School for children from ages three to 12. WW From July 5-7, tickets on eventbrite.ie 48-49 WW14 Hot Right Now KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 27/06/2023 13:03

LETTERS 50 WOMANSWAY.IE Online... womansway.ie Subscribe... 01 240 5363 Email... [emailprotected] Facebook... facebook.com/womansway Twitter... twitter.com/Womans_way LETTER EMAIL DETAILS For the moment, we are asking you to send us all your letters and pictures to [emailprotected]. We love to hear from you so please stay in touch. STAR LETTERPRIZE One lucky star letter will receive the three varieties of new Batiste Dry Conditioner: Original – classic fresh scent, Blush – fl irty fl oral scent and Tropical – exotic coconut scent. The inventor of the dry shampoo category, Batiste is shaking up the haircare industry with its game-changing Leave-In Dry Conditioner, a lightweight foam that will take your day-two hair to the new level. Designed to instantly soften and detangle the hair lengths inbetween washes, as well as leaving a smooth and glossy shine. Batiste Leave-In Dry Conditioners retail at €4.99 each and are available from McCabes, Chemist Warehouse, Haven Pharmacy, McCauleys, McCartans and online at daisybelle.ie Farm Family Group in Tipperary Could you include this picture of our Farm Family Group Tipperary, on our day outing to Avondale House and Forest Park. It would be lovely for our ladies as a lot of them, myself included, enjoy Woman's Way magazine. It's such great value for money cover to cover. Eileen Connolly, Co Tipperary Irish pa erns Just a quick note to say how happy I am to see an Irish company featured in the knitting and crochet section. I generally knit rather than crochet, but this beautiful pattern is tempting me to reactivate my forgotten crochet skills. There was also a knitted hat pattern from an Irish designer published recently and I intend to work on this later in the year. There are so many Irish designers, spinners and yarn shops to be explored and your magazine is a perfect platform for this. Happy knitting and crocheting everyone. Doreen Burke, Dublin Reading for the plane I was on my way to the airport and I picked up a copy of my Woman's Way magazine. It was only on the plane I was aware that my sister wouldn't be sitting next to me and was a little nervous of fl ying. So I took out my fantastic Woman's Way magazine and started to read articles, stories, tips, fashion, recipes until my two-hour journey had landed in France. Marie Harney, Co Kildare What’s in your coat? Last week I washed my gardening coat and, in so doing, it became very obvious as to why I feel like I do a workout before I have even uproot a weed. Emptying the pockets, the contents looked like a roadmap to my gardening work. Two secateurs, roll of twine and scissors, tie wire, lip balm, four pairs of gloves (two pairs not in the photo as they are on the washing line), two rolls of copper tape, one roll of masking tape, plumber’s tape and three rolls of insulating tape, selection of seeds, two pink paper clips, plant labels and markers, note paper in a ziplock bag, pen, a fi ve cent coin, fl ash lamp, two cane toppers perished (now in the recycling bin). I feel like singing ‘And a partridge in a pear tree..’ Jane Alstorm, Co Longford I hate the double standard often applied to successful women, especially in the media. If they are driven, ambitious and good at what they do, they are often labelled cold or bossy. I feel like Gráinne Seoige suffered with this label, probably unnecessarily. You get the sense she’s a no-nonsense sort of women and there’s nothing wrong with that. But all the same I felt sorry for her, as sometimes once labels like that are put on someone, it’s hard to get away from them. I really missed her on our screens and think its great she’s back in Ireland and getting back into the TV groove too. The Living with Lucy episode she did a couple of years ago was great, and really gave people a look at another side to her personality. Also loved her menopause documentary too. Would love to see her do more stuff like this. Anyway, she looked terrifi c on your recent cover. Jenny Murray, Co Cavan 50 WW14 Letters KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 27/06/2023 13:04