Bee Good Honey, Borage & Echium Intensive Hand Repair 50ml

Keeping your hands soft and moisturised in this bitterly cold weather we seem to be having right now is a bit of a challenge. I have been using Bee Good Honey, Borage & Echium Intensive Hand Repair which I absolutely love, as a cream it is thick, luxurious and smells just incredible.

Described as being 'A powerful multi-use intensive hand repair to rescue and soothe even the most dehydrated skin' this hand repair cream when applied quickly absorbs itself into the skin and leaves no greasy residue behind. If your hand are really dehydrated, sore, cracked then this is a hand cream which will soothe, moisturise and rehydrate. 

As the name might suggest this cream is packed with super moisturising ingredients such as British Wild Flower Honey and Shea and Cocoa Butter, replenishing and calming echium oil, antioxidant Vitamin E, strengthening borage oil, antibacterial propolis and then beeswax which helps to combat dryness.  This cream is thick, it is intensely luxurious and you only need to use just one pump to ensure both hands are covered.  I also love that this cream can also be used on your elbows and on your feet too.

If you have never come across them before, Bee Good is an independent British skincare company based in rural Hampshire, who have harnessed the centuries-old healing powers of British honey, propolis and beeswax in an innovative skincare range, designed to make a real difference without the use of parabens, synthetic colour, mineral oil, silicone or SLS/SLES. Each and every one of their products is described as being packed with hard-working intensively soothing ingredients, there is nothing better to care for your lips than this nourishing and protective treatment delivered from the flower to the bee, to you.

At just £12 for 50ml, this is a cream to grab and try, your hands will not only thank you for it, your feet and elbows will too not forgetting those bees!

*this post contains PR samples/AF links unless indicated otherwise

Label J Clothing with Jacamo

Regular readers of my blog will no doubt be aware that Beautykinguk and I are married (yes really) and every so often he features on my blog. This time he features because I was asked to choose some clothes for him from Jacamo.  Jacamo is a men's clothing website and shop, they have one here in London on Oxford Street and you will see celebrities such as Freddie Flintoff appearing in TV adverts and he has his own line of clothing with Jacamo. Brands such as Firetrap, Lambretta and French Connection also all appear and they have sizes going from a Small right up to 5XL and with everything from mens jeans, t-shirts and jumpers so there is always something for everyone.

I decided that the one thing the mister needed was a coat to keep him warm in this horrid cold spell we have just had. He has numerous coats but none have a hood, they don't look warm and whilst they are long and cashmere, something a little different was what I chose and it is this, the Label J Parka. 

This parka from Label J is described as being 'this season's must-have piece'. It features a pretty good sized hood with a faux-fur trim, plenty of pockets with on the outside and one inside, making room for an iPhone, iPod, wallet, Oyster cards and whatever else is needed. It also features a full zip from bottom to top along with press-stud front fasteners, so he is warmly wrapped and the press-studs don't pop open at any point.

I opted for a large size in the event a jumper would be worn underneath the coat, there is nothing worse than buying a coat which fits snugly but add an item of clothing underneath and all of a sudden it is unbearable to move. In this case, the large fits perfectly well and as a regular length, it comes just below the buttocks.  Made from cotton, there is a quilted inside and this coat is machine washable and is priced at just £65 here, so an absolute bargain.

Sticking with Label J, I also opted for a pair of jeans. The Balham worker jeans from Label J are said to be this season's take on the classic straight-leg jean and I like that they can be worn with absolutely anything being the classic denim blue and because Stephen wears jeans for work in a smart casual kind of way.

As he is quite tall, approaching 6ft, with long legs, finding a fit that works is often an issue and he is an in-between size of a 33-inch leg, so we do usually opt for a 34 and find they are just that bit too long.  These fit perfectly, even whilst wearing the big biker boots, his favourite ones.  With a zip fly and pockets to the front and back these jeans are a perfect fit and at just £35 here, they are an absolute bargain.

Was Stephen happy with my choices? Certainly was, the jeans are stupidly comfy and a great fit around my biker boots. The denim is really soft. The coat has been an absolute dream over the last few weeks. With sideways rain and subzero temperatures having a coat that blocks out the howling wind and a snug fur lined hood has meant that I've stayed toasty and warm. It's a fab coat, although whenever I wear the parka I feel the urge to walk with my knees bent and shouting 'r kid' in a thick Manc accent.

Have you ever shopped at Jacamo?

*this post contains PR samples unless indicated otherwise

Elegant Touch Premium Implement Kit

When it comes to my nails I’m pretty obsessed and love nothing more than having a pampering manicure and hand massage, it is incredibly relaxing and stress relieving, particularly as my hands are on the go all of the time. So a few hours in a salon is absolute bliss, but when I haven't found the time to ensure my talons are in tip top condition, I do like to take care of them at home.  The Elegant Touch Premium Implement Kit is the newest addition to my nail care collection and it is perfectly sized for being on the go, on holidays and at home.

Retailing at £25, the Elegant Touch Premium Implement Kit is housed inside a stunning watercolour floral print case which opens by simply pressing the silver metal button on the side. Opening up there are four nail tools inside the kit which are: 

Elegant Touch Nail Clippers - Crafted from high-quality stainless steel with perfectly aligned, sharp blades for precision cutting of the nails.

Elegant Touch Cuticle Pusher and Cleaner - This is a dual-ended tool to preen and perfect cuticles and for cleaning under the nails. Allows secure, comfortable grip for controlled tidying.

Elegant Touch Glass Nail File - This helps to gently shape natural and artificial nails, whilst protecting from splitting and peeling.

Elegant Touch Nail Buffer - This is a super-fine grit buffer which smoothes ridges and imperfections for a neater polish application.

This really is a cute kit which would be perfect for any beauty lover, and who doesn't want to have Pink coloured tools to keep their nails in tip-top condition? This kit also comes with it even includes a 5-year guarantee and it can here found here.

*this post contains PR samples unless indicated otherwise

Shay & Blue London Dandelion Fig

If you read this blog regularly, then you will know that I am obsessed with fragrances and have over the past few years moved away from my comfort zone and have found a whole load of scents that I just find incredible. I like to think a fragrance can be chosen to suit your mood, complement your outfit or and very often in my case, you wear for the memories that it recreates and evokes in your mind.

Shay & Blue is a new brand to me, I have never tried any of their products before but I know a few of my blogger friends are simply devoted to the brand. Their newest fragrance, which hits the shelves this March is called Dandelion & Fig and I adored it from the very first spritz. 

Dandelion & Fig is a unisex fragrance which is unusual, eclectic and is fresh and just stunning.

• The top notes open with Dandelion Leaf which gives it that fresh greenness scent which when mixed with lemongrass to give it a touch a heat come together to create a scent which is so different to anything else I have tried and nothing to compare it to, it is that authentic to me.
• The Heart Notes have a combination of Tomato Vine which again gives a hint of greenness to the scent and it is followed by Juniper which is zingy and hits you quickly before settling down.
• The base note is all about the fig scent which is as it dries down gives such an earthy tone it grabs hold of the juniper, the Tomato Vine, the Dandelion Leaf and brings them all together so you have the earthy tones intermixed with lemongrass and juniper and it is just incredible.

For me this is a spring scent and I just absolutely adore it and cannot wait to wear it and I am secretly hoping BeautykingUK won't like it so I don't have to fight him for the bottle! Dandelion & Fig is definitely daring and different but so stunning.

The fragrance will be available from Shay & Blue Marleybone Boutique, Harvey Nichols, John Lewis or M&S in March 2017 and will be priced at £53 for 100ml or £30 for a portable 30ml size.

*this post contains PR samples/Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise

Dermalogica Skincare with ASOS

New Year New Start and all that stuff... well I believe we have enough stress and pressure in life without adding to it with a long list of I will and I won't style commitments. But I do believe you need a good skincare regime that works for you and if this is one of the commitments you haven't yet made or have made but haven't got around to it just yet, then Dermalogica have everything you need and you can get it all from ASOS.

Dermalogica Foaming Wash - This foaming wash decreases the sign of clogged pores and breakouts with the help of its key ingredients Tea Tree, Lavender and Camellia. It also works to clear away dead skin cells, dirt and excess oils helping to clear the skin. I love a good foaming wash and I love how refreshed my skin feels after using. 

I am not usually a fan of products with Tea Tree in them, they are too clinical smelling for me, but within this facial wash it is just noticeable and isn't too much that your eyes water. Gentle on the skin and priced at just £13.10 (here) it is a great product that you can use as often as you feel you need too.

Dermalogica Breakout Clearing All Over Toner -This described as being 'a unique mist-all-over purifying toner' and it works to control excess oils and helps eliminate breakouts on the face and body. Refreshing extracts of Lavender, Witch Hazel and Licorice Root Extract to name a few, help cool and revive skin. 

To use, you simply spritz over your face with your eyes closed and leave to absorb. I am a huge fan of facial sprays and I have never quite got round to using a toner as part of my routine, with this I have and I love it. Priced at just £13.10 (here) it is a great product to have.

Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Overnight Treatment - Wake up to clearer skin! This invisible treatment absorbs quickly then works all night to fight breakouts and reduce redness.  Using Tea Tree, Camellia extract and Lavender to name a few of the ingredients. 

To use you simply apply after cleansing and toning, pat a thin layer of the cream onto your skin and allow it to absorb, which it does really quickly. Then leave it on overnight and wash off in the morning.  Having used this several times now, the cream is quite light and a little goes a long way, it does feel sticky on the skin until it has completely absorbed and it doesn't leave a trace on your pillows.  Once it has been washed off, I noticed that my skin was incredibly smooth to the touch. For me, this is a product I would use when blemishes appear or when your skin is threatening a break out, every now and again I do feel the beginning of the odd pimple under the skin and priced at £13.10 (here) it isn't overpriced.

Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Cooling Masque - Designed to cool down inflammation and reduce the redness of irritated skin. On the skin, this mask, when applied instantly gives that cooing sensation which I find quite soothing. With ingredients such as camphor which feels tingly and cooling on the skin and has a menthol scent which you immediately notice upon application. Thyme acts as an antibacterial agent and as well as being great for oily skin, it is also said to be great for conditions such as acne. Liquorice is an ingredient that appears in quite a lot of skincare and it works to brighten the skin fade blemishes and it has antioxidants which help to protect against free radicals. Lavender and Aloe Vera are also ingredients. 

This mask has a gel texture and has quite a thin consistency so you only need a small amount to cover your face. It glides easily over the face and neck and quite quickly absorbs so that only a very thin, tacky-like film is left on the skin until the mask is rinsed off. The mask is to be left on the skin for up to ten minutes before being washed off and it does leave your skin feeling soothed, smoothed and refreshing clean. Priced at £16.15 (here) this is a little gem of a find.

If you haven't yet found a skincare routine that works for you, then these products from Dermalogica are not going to break the bank.

*this post contains PR samples unless indicated otherwise

The Beauty Blender

The Beauty Blender is a tool that I am sure most people have had, have used, want or dislike. There are so many to choose from that you can be like a rabbit in headlights trying to decide which one will work best for you, well I have amassed quite a collection thanks to a masterclass that I attended and having tried them all out since then, I have just about managed to get to grips with what is what.

The Original beautyblender - The one you might know better as 'the pink one'. This was the world’s first edgeless makeup sponge ensures flawless application of any complexion product - primer, powder, cream blush and more. beautyblender is guaranteed to leave you with a professional finish and its unique shape allows for that effortless blending to ensure a streak-free application everytime. There are three words that you need to remember when it comes to using your beautyblender and that is wet.squeeze.bounce. You can find it here

Before applying makeup you need to thoroughly soak your sponge in water and then gently squeeze out the excess - try to avoid wringing it out entirely to avoid tearing. Once wet, the beautyblender will expand to twice its size and become much softer.  Then bounce that makeup, whether it is a primer or your foundation across your face. Thus using the wet.squeeze.bounce method.

The Micro Mini beautyblender - The 'Green one' which is teeny tiny one which has been designed especially to highlight, contour and conceal. Owing to its size, the micro mini is perfect for applying makeup to small areas of the face such a under the eye, inner corner of the eye, the eyelids, brow bones, sides of the nose and the top of your cheeks.  Again, to use the micro mini you need to wet.squeeze.bounce. You can find this one here.

The Beauty Blusher - The 'Grey one' is the perfect sized applicator for cream and powder blush application. Made from the same exclusive beautyblender material, this is the first medium-sized blush applicator which is designed to deliver the right amount of blush to your cheeks and is made to perfectly match the apples of the cheeks for flawless application of blush. 

The Body Blender - The 'Black one' is designed especially for professionals and best for applying darker toned, long-wear cosmetic products, as well as self-tanners. It is large enough to cover the curves of your body and contoured enough to sit perfectly in the palm of your hand to ensure a controlled, even coverage.

The beautyblender blotterazzi (pink) - This game-changing washable, reusable alternative to blotting papers in iconic beautyblender® pink allows for precise, cushion blotting. Shaped to fit all contours of the face, blotterazzi™ saves you from unused corners like traditional blotting papers. The award-winning beautyblender ® material stays “thirsty” when its dry, absorbing excess oil without disturbing makeup and leaving skin looking radiant. 

The chic mirrored compact contains two blotting cushions for beauty touch ups on the go. A vented back and clear, hygienic separator ensures sponge freshness. Use dry. Wash with liquid blendercleanser® or blendercleanser® solid® and dry in a well ventilated area.

blotterazzi™ is easy to use: simply press the dry pointed side onto smaller areas of the face and the rounded side onto the larger areas of the face, absorbing oils and freshening makeup throughout the day. Wash with blendercleanser® and dry in a ventilated area. You can find it here

One of the newest products that I have been getting to grips with is the beautyblender liner.designer - Designed to become your steady hand and symmetry expert when applying liner to your eyes. It is perfect for use with all eyeliners, pencils, pens, gel creams, liquid and powder. You can find it right here.

liner.designer has a straight edge that is flexible and will stay in place when gently placed against the skin. The three different sides of liner.designer are devised to help create different angles and liner shapes. Its chic compact has a 5X magnifying mirror and suction cup allowing the compact to be used at eye level – anywhere, anytime. It’s also a great no-mess shield when applying mascara! If you are not convinced, the video below shows how easy it is:

So there you have a short but precise guide to the phenomenon that is the beautyblender and what their role in your makeup bag is.  I am a total convert to the beautyblender and find myself using them much more than I thought I would.  You find the entire range here on Cult Beauty.

Are you a fan of the beautyblender? Do you have a favourite?

*this post contains PR samples/AF Links unless indicated otherwise

NEW LAUNCHES | DHC

If you haven't yet come across the brand DHC then 'HELLO' you need to. This month there are two amazing new launches and you basically need them. DHC, which stands for "Daigaku Honyaku Center, are a Japans No. 1 direct skincare company and their Cleansing Oil is a product most people are possibly more familiar with. The vision behind DHC is rooted in the beneficial properties of virgin olive oil, Flor de Aceite – the finest quality, extracted from organic Spanish olives. The entire skincare range was founded on the beneficial properties of olive oil. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, it is a highly effective component in neutralising damaging free radicals. Olive oil also helps balance your skin's moisture. With its unique ability to mix with water, olive oil helps moisturise without clogging pores.

So with THREE amazing new launches in the form of a Q10 Face Mask, the Quick Film Smoother and the Gel Pencil Eyeliner EX it is quite an exciting time.

The Q10 Face Mask is a sheet mask that features antioxidant coenzyme Q10 which is a powerful antioxidant which exists naturally within the body but within this mask, it helps to firm and fight free radicals as well as helping to target fine lines, wrinkles and elasticity loss. With key ingredients such as Vitamin C and E which help to brighten and hydrate, collagen and sodium hyaluronate which help to plump fine lines and wrinkles.

As with any mask that you are using, you should apply to a cleansed face to ensure all that surface dirt and grime is removed and then leave on for up to 20 minutes before removing, once removed press any of the remaining treatment into the skin with simple tapping motions. At £4.50 (here) these masks are worth every penny for that soft, smooth, hydrated and clean feeling skin.

The Gel Pencil Eyeliner EX available in shade black or brown is a product that never seems to be on my list of 'must haves'. I do wear eyeliner occasionally but I have to be in the right frame of mine to attempt to apply it, otherwise, I get annoyed when the application doesn't go quite right.  Whether you like your eyeliner to be barely there or if the old cat eye with perfect wing is for you, DHC have created this non-smudge eyeliner which is as precise as a pencil but has the smoothness of a gel and all I am going to say is that this does not budge one each, even with a hand swatch!  

The colour which is super pigmented stays true to colour and creates a line in just one stroke, so you won't need to sit for hours in front of the mirror going back and forth across your lash line to see a bit of colour.  Designed in a twist up pencil format, so no need for sharpening, these pencils are priced at £9.50 (here) and basically one of each is needed.

The final product to share with you is the Quick Film Smoother and it is described as being a lightweight moisturiser which smooths out the look of wrinkles instantly. It houses some amazing ingredients such as collagen-rich eggshell membrane (ESM) peptides alongside a combination of algae extract which instantly firm the appearance of the skin and support collagen levels. Sodium hyaluronate protects the skin's natural moisture levels and soybean protein complex works over time to protect the skin's natural elasticity. Put them all together and you get a more youthful-looking glow. 

It works great as a primer for your makeup and instead of covering my entire face with the cream, I tend to stick to between my brows, around my eyes and around my lips and sometimes on my cheeks.  I absolutely love this and as a Primer, it is simply amazing, my makeup doesn't slide off point way through the day and because it is so lightweight, I don't feel as though I have anything on my skin.  Priced at £17.50 (here) in the DHC sale so grab it quick, this is a product I adore.

Seriously though if you have never come across DHC products before then you need to give them a look, I have featured so many amazing products on this blog and you can find some of them right here on the DHC Website, where there is a sale!

*this post contains PR samples unless indicated otherwise

Skinceuticals phyto corrective masque

Facemasks are something I look forward to using, along with an eye mask and a hair mask, I mean if you are going to pamper yourself at home, you might as well go all out and slather yourself from head to toe as much as you can.

The latest mask I have loved using is the Skinceuticals Phyto Corrective Masque which is described as being an intensive botanical gel mask to soothe and calm temporary skin reactivity. Perfect if your skin has become inflamed, is aggravated or during times of stress and hormonal issues. For me, my skin changes around that time of the month, often become slightly sensitive and with more often than not little red patches on my cheeks.

The masque is very much gel-like, think back to times of your Youth when your brother might have been using a hair gel to spike his hair and that bright green tub of joy that proudly sat on his bedside table, well the colour very much reminds me of that. Quick thick in texture too, this mask is one of those I find easier to apply with a brush. I use an old make-up brush for the application and it applies really smoothly and evenly.

Once on the skin, there is an instant cooling feel, really comforting and soothing much like the feeling of Aloe Vera on Sunburn or Calamine lotion on an itchy rash. The ingredients consist of a unique blend of cucumber, thyme, and olive extracts soothe skin for optimum comfort and are referred to as the 'green botanicals. Then there is the Calming Dipeptide which helps reduce the perception of heat sensitivity and finally Hyaluronic Acid which as well all know is a natural humectant (preserves moisture) capable of holding 1,000 times its own weight in water and the body’s natural hydrator.

I also ensure I have cleansed my face before using any mask, removing that surface dirt and grime is key to ensuring your mask works as well as it can do. Once applied, you leave it on for 10-15 minutes and then remove using a cloth that is slightly damp. Then moisturise after using.  Because this mask is so gentle on the skin it can be used daily particularly during the hot months with sun exposure or after a hot bath, weekly and after some procedures, but always seek guidance first. I have also used this mask after burning my wrist on the oven, I am quite clumsy like that, and it did cool and soothe and no blister formed and I had the smallest of red marks which soon faded.

What I love about this mask is that it is oil free, it hydrates, it is cooling and it does soothe therefore ticking every box that it promises. If you feel your skin needs a little more TLC then you can leave this mask on overnight, but my warning to you is to not sleep on your very best pillows and instead a towel.

This mask is incredible and it is priced between £51 and £56 for 60ml it isn't on the cheap side of face masks, but you do get a product that lives up to its expectations and you can find it here.

*this post contains PR samples unless indicated otherwise

House of Fraser Makeup Wishlist

With my Christmas vouchers from House of Fraser still burning a hole in my pocket and little of the sales offerings capturing my attention, there have been a few items from other blogs that I have been reading that have captured my attention.

Starting with Charlotte Tilbury, a store I have visiting many time in Covent Garden but have always left empty handed having struggled to decide what I would really like to own. However this Charlotte Tilbury Quick and Easy Natural Glowing Look kit which retails at £55 here and contains five products which are classed as being hyper-intelligent, multi-tasking, bestselling, award-winners which have you ready to go in just 5 minutes. 

Another brand I have seen everywhere is from bareMinerals and again whilst I have a Moxie lipgloss and a mascara, there is a whole lot more to discover and this bareMinerals Get Started Complexion Kit which costs just £39 here is said to get you on your way to radiant, healthy-looking skin, using award-winning bareMinerals Foundation and signature complexion essentials such as the Prime Time Foundation Primer and Mineral Veil® Finishing Powder. 

Givenchy Rouge Interdit is a lipstick I have seen everywhere and they are just stunning. Yes lipsticks are something I am obsessed with and they are usually the first item of makeup I decide upon when putting my face on. This particular lipstick is is enriched with precious black rose oil, which caresses lips with softness and moisture whilst ensuring an unparalleled texture. Its creamy and silky feel makes it the perfect lipstick for any occasion. Rose Alibi or Rouge Insomnie both have my name on and at £25 it sounds like an absolute must have. You can see it and the rest of the collection here.

NARS Velvet Shadow Sticks are again products which people rave about and as I have said I am not buying anymore palettes until I have used up the ones I have then shadow sticks are not on my horizon. Oaxaca is described as being a quartz shade but in some of the reviews I have read it has been described as a muted, medium-dark taupe brown and some say it warm, rosy undertones. At £21 here it costs almost as much as some palettes I own, but I am intrigued by it. 

When it comes to bronzers I am a Benefit girl and am never without Hoola, it is like a comfort blanket and I adore it. However, Elizabeth Arden is also a brand I happen to adore and the Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Bronzing Powder has caught my attention with the description alone. Using microlight minerals this powder filled with Minerals, Mica, Sea Water Complex, Aloe and Vitamins A, C and E. Priced at £26 here, it isn't overly expensive and it does come in a cute compact with a mini folding kabuki brush.

So those are the products that have, over the last few weeks, caught my attention. If you do have money and vouchers to spend at House of Fraser there is a great Gift With Purchase offer if you spend £75 or more on beauty online because you can then purchase the All About Skincare Kit for £25 (worth over £85), (excluding delivery charges and any other discount), from Monday 9th January - 25th January 2017 (inclusive). Click here for the Exclusive Skincare Set. 

*this post contains PR samples/AF Links unless indicated otherwise

Banish Winter Lips with Carmex

As the weather forecast threatens snow, the wind is quite bitter and the need to moisturise never greater (don't forget the SPF) there is also the need to ensure your lips stay kissably soft and smooth, who wants to kiss someone with bits of skin flaking from their lips - grim!

One brand that you can't help but notice with its bright cheerful yellow packaging is Carmex. This cult classic all began with Alfred Woelbing back in the late 1930's in America suffering from dry, chapped lips and with a knowledge of kitchen chemistry he was able to hand make his special formula. Selling out the back of his car to pharmacists the demand grew and grew. Now over 130 Carmex products are sold every minute worldwide still with the original formulation.

I am sure you will either be familiar with the a squeezy tube or a little pot but it comes in quite a few varieties, shapes and sizes and with that a range of scents too. The thing I love about Carmex is the ingredients include camphor and beeswax to hydrate, soothe and protect along with Camphor Oil which relieves painful chapped skin and of course the menthol scent which tingles.

A product which can be used under lipstick and acts really well as a base or on its own, you can find on the high street in stores such as Boots and Superdrug and it won't break the bank when you purchase it with prices starting at just £2.69.

Are you a Carmex fan?

*this post contains PR samples unless indicated otherwise

The 6 best reasons why Ukraine should be your next holiday destination!

In Europe, Ukraine stands among one of the most visited countries. Spread over 603,628 square kilometers, Ukraine has a population of 45.59 million and the capital of the country, Kiev, is something that you should definitely visit. It sports some of the best churches, castles, squares, buildings and landscapes among other things to offer. If you are a traveller who wishes to explore new destination, Ukraine is one of the best spots to visit.

For people who seek interest in unknown places and the pristine nature in the old architectural backdrop, Ukraine is the best destination you can head to. We bring to you a list of six places that you definitely have to visit whenever you are planning to go to Ukraine:

1 Castle in Gaspra

Set in the middle of Yalta and Alupka in Crimea, this decorative castle is 40 meters high and is inspired by the Neo-Gothic design. It was built between 1911 and 1912 by a Russian architect named Leonid Sherwood. It offers stunning views of the Black Sea coast and it is a prominent place in the south coast Crimea.

2. Chervonograd, Bridge Over Waterfall

Thousands of people visit Chervonograd, Bridge over Waterfall which is located in the waterfall city of Chervonograd. Not many people know about this place and it definitely is a place worth visiting. With crystal clear water flowing down the rocky terrain, the small mountains in the vicinity are green and have some ancient trees, taking you back in time in this serene and lovely place.

3. Former Leipzig Hotel, Pushcha-Voditsa

Pushcha-Voditsa is a historic town and is located in the dense forests and is in the proximity of Kiev. It has several antique buildings that you would love to visit and it will an amazing experience indeed! The Former Leipzig Hotel should be your choice of stay when you are there.

4. Old Church, Kremenets, Ternopil Region

Kremenets has a rich history and it is one of the towns to have witnessed the sad Holocaust. With such rich history involved, you will definitely have to visit this place to explore and know more about history. The botanical garden, architectural buildings and other places of interest are definitely worth your attention and you would have to be here!

5. St. Sophia, Kiev

A marvellous architectural monument and known as one of the best heritage sites in Ukraine, it has made to the World Heritage List and dates back to the 6th century. It is also accounted for one of the Seven Wonders of Ukraine and is of high cultural and historical significance.

6. Golden Monastery, Pochaiv

One of the most spiritual places in Ukraine, it is a monastery on a 60 meter hell in Pochaiv and it was started by several monks during the Mongol invasion. It offers scenic views and has multiple places of attraction from within, making it one among the must-visit places in Ukraine. 

So why wait?

*this post contains PR samples unless indicated otherwise/GP

Paco Rabanne Lady Million Eau My Gold Eau de Toilette

Perfumes and fragrances I obsess about, I know what I like and over the years I have moved away from my comfort zone of 2-3 staple perfumes to trying quite a few new ones.  A friend of mine suggested I should try Paco Rabanne Lady Million Eau My Gold as she felt I would like it and it also happens to be one of her go-to scents. I hold my hands up, I didn't like the look of the bottle and never went near to trying it out, I know you should never judge a book by its cover, but I did.

Anyway, as some of my favourite perfumes ran out, I decided not to repurchase them but instead try others, there are so many on my wishlist that I am never going to get through them if I don't branch out.  I bought Paco Rabanne Lady Million Eau My Gold and having read a few posts about a site called Love the Sales and a mention of saving up to 75% I searched for it and presented with a lot of choices offering me anything from 14% to a 31% discount on this fragrance.  So I chose my option and was directed Fragrance Direct and instead of paying £63.50 for 80ml I paid £47.99 and it arrived within a few days.

So the fragrance is encased in an elongated diamond shaped bottle with a gold lid and it looks really pretty when it catches the sunlight and creates a prism on the wall.  It has a whole host of ingredients which give a burst of zesty freshness before they settle down to a soft powdery scent that I have actually grown to really like.  The top notes of Mango and Grapefruit open this scent up with quite a zesty explosion from the grapefruit which is ultimately the first scent you get, it is fresh and lively and takes some time to settle. The heart notes of Violet Leaf and Orange blossom give a soft floral scent which when intermixed with that of the grapefruit they come to live before the base notes of Cedar Heart and Ambery Musks settle the fragrance down to give that soft powdery scent. 

Once spritzed on my pulse points Lady Million Eau My Gold doesn't have the longevity of other fragrances, such as YSL Black Opium or Zadig and Voltaire This is Her, but you do get a scent which has a strong start and as the day progresses, you will need to re-apply if you are going out of an evening, or if you are like me, just because you want to smell good all the time.  

I think this scent is perfect for the spring and is one I am glad I gave in and purchased because it is unlike any other scent I own.

*this post contains PR samples/Af Links unless indicated otherwise