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You have to agree that these sleek, rustic looking blinds are just gorgeous and really create a feature of the window space - and they are not just for installing in the home.

If you are thinking about renovating the office space and giving it a cool, contemporary new look then consider adding some of these wood blinds. The days of those dust-catching old vertical things are in the past now and the trend these days is towards natural fibres. If you work in an environment where you get a lot of morning or afternoon sun then these would be just perfect.

I love the lines and the shading of the distressed look; another thing is they would keep the room cooler without blocking out too much natural light and you can also get them with motorized option so that they can be opened and closed hands-free. Less wear and tear that way.

Popularity: 6% [?]

I am not referring to anything kinky now (well, whatever takes your fancy then) but the latest style trend for ostrich feathers.

I was looking at an online wedding catalogue over the last weekend that my cousin had sent me a link for and was stunned by how beautiful are the centrepiece arrangements featuring ostrich feathers. I had never seen them before used in this way…only sticking out of ladies hats. My cousin is planning to decorate the wedding tables with them.

So when I got the opportunity to write this I just had to include that picture. They come in kits and you arrange them yourself (as shown on the left) plus they come in any colour you like. I love the idea - so different - arranged in the tall glass vases and surrounded by candles they give a totally ethereal look don’t you think?

Just one thing though; I wonder how they go for people who get the sneezes…

Disclaimer: No ostrich was harmed during the writing of this post.

Popularity: 5% [?]

Well lucky you. You will want to make sure that the cruise you choose (hey that rhymes!) the right one and at the best possible price. The great thing about a cruise holiday is that everything is basically all paid for by the time you embark; not including drinks of course. But you have to remember that the cruise line will not really make it’s money from your fare alone - it is all those extras such as drinks, spa treatments, hairdressers, shore excursions and onboard shops that bring in the profits for them. So remember to allow extra for all these.

Here are four tips for choosing the best cruise at the right price for a totally enjoyable holiday…

Go online and check out the forums:

What better way than to get reviews from those who have been there and done it - or better still, been there and hated it. Visit Cruise Critic or CruiseMates  for expert opinions by travel writers and travellers.

Choose the ship - large and busy vs small and intimate:

There are those large ‘resort’ type ships now such as Royal Caribbeans ‘Voyager’ which holds an impressive 3,114 passengers - such a choice is perfect for those who want to do it all and see it all and do not mind doing such amidst so many other passengers; the downside will be very long queues at the buffet tables for meals (never mind the lifeboats!). If you’d prefer something more peaceful with a vastly shorter waiting time with a plate in your hand at lunch consider one of the smaller and more elegant cruise ships such as those run by Sea-Dream or Seabourn.

Price it!:

There are cruise specialist agencies such as Cruisesonly and Cruises-N-More with varying prices. The big online travel agencies such as Expedia and Orbitz are highly competitive so usually offer the best prices. Once upon a time you could show up at the docks a day or two before a cruise departs and bag an empty cabin for practically nothing but increased security measures have done away with that option.

Choose the cabin:

Have a look at the ships plan so that you can choose the cabin that will suit your needs. If you have a physical disability or are in a wheelchair then securing a cabin nearest the elevators would be wise. Staterooms can often have obstructed views if on the lifeboat deck and being near the kitchens, discos or utility areas could make for sleepless nights. Cabins lower down are best for those who suffer seasickness and cabins with balconies offer privacy and a less ‘closed-in’ feel.

Tip:

Don’t wait until you are onboard to book a particular day excursion - book ahead online.

Bon Voyage!!

Popularity: 4% [?]