thetelegraph--2020-01-07--Persian rose and pistachio love cake recipe

This enchanting cake reminds me of a Persian garden in the late spring , adorned with the floral scent of rose water and citrus , and decorated with bright green pistachios .
If it is not devoured in one sitting , the oil in the ground almond base ensures a moist , densely textured cake that will keep well for a couple of days , covered in foil .
A sprinkling of dried rose petals looks pretty for special occasions , but don ’ t worry if you can ’ t get hold of any .
It ’ s still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to eight • Pre-heat the oven to 160C/140C fan/Gas 3 .
Grease a 22cm cake tin ( one with a removable base ) and line it with baking parchment .
• In a large mixing bowl , cream the butter and sugar together .
When the mixture is thoroughly combined , beat in the eggs .
• Place the cardamom pods in a mortar and work with a pestle to get the seeds out of the pods .
Discard the pods and grind the seeds to a fine powder .
Add them to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flour , ground almonds , lemon zest and juice , rose water , baking powder and salt .
Mix well .
• Pour the mixture into the cake tin and bake in the oven for 45 minutes .
To check if it is ready , stick a fork in the middle of the cake – it should come out dry .
• Towards the end of the cooking time , make your drizzle topping .
Place the caster sugar , lemon juice and rose water in a small pan over a low heat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Remove the cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack .
Poke holes all over the top of the warm cake and drizzle over the syrup .
• When the cake is completely cool , make the icing by combining the icing sugar , lemon juice and a few teaspoons of water until you have a smooth , thick icing .
Spoon the icing over the cake and finish with a sprinkling of sliced pistachios and , if you like , rose petals .
Recipe from The Saffron Tales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Order your copy from books.telegraph.co.uk

This enchanting cake reminds me of a Persian garden in the late spring, adorned with the floral scent of rose water and citrus, and decorated with bright green pistachios.
If it is not devoured in one sitting, the oil in the ground almond base ensures a moist, densely textured cake that will keep well for a couple of days, covered in foil. A sprinkling of dried rose petals looks pretty for special occasions, but don’t worry if you can’t get hold of any. It’s still a cake to win hearts.
Prep time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes
SERVES
Six to eight
INGREDIENTS
200g unsalted butter
150g caster sugar
4 medium eggs
12 cardamom pods
100g plain flour, sifted
275g ground almonds
Zest and juice of 1 unwaxed lemon
1 tbsp rose water
1 tsp baking powder
A generous pinch of fine sea salt
For the drizzle topping:
2 tbsp caster sugar
Juice of ½ lemon
½ tbsp rose water
For the icing:
150g icing sugar
Juice of ¾ lemon
2 tsp cold water
To decorate:
2 tsp sliced pistachios
2 tsp dried rose petals (optional)
METHOD
Pre-heat the oven to 160C/140C fan/Gas 3. Grease a 22cm cake tin (one with a removable base) and line it with baking parchment. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together. When the mixture is thoroughly combined, beat in the eggs. Place the cardamom pods in a mortar and work with a pestle to get the seeds out of the pods. Discard the pods and grind the seeds to a fine powder. Add them to the cake mixture, along with the flour, ground almonds, lemon zest and juice, rose water, baking powder and salt. Mix well. Pour the mixture into the cake tin and bake in the oven for 45 minutes. To check if it is ready, stick a fork in the middle of the cake – it should come out dry. Towards the end of the cooking time, make your drizzle topping. Place the caster sugar, lemon juice and rose water in a small pan over a low heat and heat until the sugar melts. Remove the cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Poke holes all over the top of the warm cake and drizzle over the syrup. When the cake is completely cool, make the icing by combining the icing sugar, lemon juice and a few teaspoons of water until you have a smooth, thick icing. Spoon the icing over the cake and finish with a sprinkling of sliced pistachios and, if you like, rose petals.
Recipe from The Saffron Tales by Yasmin Khan (Bloomsbury, £26). Order your copy from books.telegraph.co.uk


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Angry Everton fans confront director of football after humiliating Liverpool defeat

Marcel Brands , Everton ’ s director of football , was confronted by a group of the club ’ s @ @ @ @ @ ground in the aftermath of the humiliating FA Cup defeat to Liverpool .
Around seven @ @ @ @ @ Farm demanding to see the players to express their disillusionment after the 1-0 loss at @ @ @ @ @ they were refused access to the first team , they were granted an audience with @ @ @ @ @ concerns during a meeting on Monday .
Brands - entrusted with overseeing the club ’ @ @ @ @ @ come under scrutiny as another season has been derailed by poor signings .
The cup @ @ @ @ @ side was the lowest point for a club seeking a revival under new manager Carlo @ @

Marcel Brands, Everton’s director of football, was confronted by a group of the club’s angry fans at the training ground in the aftermath of the humiliating FA Cup defeat to Liverpool.
Around seven supporters arrived at USM Finch Farm demanding to see the players to express their disillusionment after the 1-0 loss at Anfield on Sunday.
Although they were refused access to the first team, they were granted an audience with Brands, who heard their concerns during a meeting on Tuesday.
Brands - entrusted with overseeing the club’s football operations - has come under scrutiny as another season has been derailed by poor signings.
The cup exit to an inexperienced Liverpool side was the lowest point for a club seeking a revival under new manager Carlo Ancelotti.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Iran plane crash: Ukraine refuses to rule out Boeing 737 was shot down by missile near Tehran killin

Iran plane crash: Ukraine refuses to rule out Boeing 737 was shot down by missile near Tehran killing 176

Ukraine has refused to rule out that the plane that crashed in Iran and killed all 176 on board was @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine 's foreign ministry confirmed that everyone aboard the Boeing 737-800 flown by Ukraine International @ @ @ @ @ came down shortly after it departed from Imam Khomeini International Airport in the Iranian capital @ @ @ @ @ three British people on board , as well as citizens from six other countries , @ @ @ @ @ Minister for Foreign Affairs Vadym Prystaiko .
Asked at a briefing in Kyiv if the @ @ @ @ @ by a missile , Ukraine 's Prime Minister Oleksiy Honcharuk refused to rule it out @ @ @ @ @ until the investigation concluded .
Initially , Ukraine 's embassy in Iran said on Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ the plane to crash and denied that it was terror-related or that a rocket had @ @ @ @ @ it later withdrew this statement , saying that anything was possible , and Mr Zelensky @ @ @ @ @ open criminal proceedings over the crash .

Iran is facing mounting pressure to explain the destruction of a civilian airliner near Tehran hours after Iranian forces launched missile strikes against US forces.
Three Britons were among 176 people killed when an Ukrainian International Airlines Boeing 737 plunged into a nosedive and exploded shortly after take-off from Tehran’s Imam Ayatollah Khomeini International Airport on Wednesday morning.
Iran dismissed speculation that the aircraft had been downed by a missile but said it would not hand over the black boxes from the aircraft to Boeing, in an unusual move likely prompted by high tensions with the United States.
Earlier Ukraine withdrew an initial statement attributing the crash to engine failure and ruling out a terror attack, sparking an international scramble to investigate the crash.
The crash came three and a half hours after Iran fired a barrage of ballistic missiles at US bases in Iraq in what it said was revenge for the assassination of general Qassim Soleimani.
Iran’s military said it had fired 22 missiles at Iraqi bases housing US troops in Erbil and Ain al-Asad. No US or Iraqi troops were killed in the half-hour bombardment.
Leaders in both Tehran and Washington played down the prospect of further armed conflict between the adversaries. In a televised address Donald Trump claimed that Iran "appeared to be standing down" and said he would impose further economic sanctions, but did not mention further military action.
Although Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, termed the strikes a “slap in the face” for America and vowed to continue a campaign to oust US forces from the region, the Iranian foreign minister, said the strikes "concluded" Iran's military response to the assassination of Soleimani.
The Ukrainian International Airlines Boeing 737-800 bound for Kyiv took off shortly after 6 AM Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport early on Wednesday morning.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Facebook and eBay commit to tackling fake reviews after CMA warning

Facebook and eBay have committed to tackling fake and misleading reviews being offered on their websites following pressure from the @ @ @ @ @ Authority .
The US tech giants have signed up to agreements with the CMA to @ @ @ @ @ and respond ” to fake reviews , after the authority urged them to act in @ @ @ @ @ CMA said that , while it did not believe they were allowing such content on @ @ @ @ @ companies should enact an `` urgent review '' into fake reviews being bought and sold @ @ @ @ @ and Yelp .
Offenders had set up groups on Facebook and added listings on eBay @ @ @ @ @ provide unscrupulous reviews for either payment or in exchange for free products .

Facebook and eBay have vowed to tackle fake and misleading product reviews on their websites under threat of a crackdown by competition regulators.
The US tech titans have entered into agreements with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to find, investigate and respond to fake reviews more quickly, after the watchdog first urged them to act in June last year.
The false reviews are often posted in exchange for money or free goods, and make products appear more popular than they are - potentially misleading thousands of buyers.
Although the CMA said it did not believe the reviews were being allowed intentionally, it ordered the pair to conduct investigate and make changes.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Iran missile attacks: US bases in Iraq hit by 22 rockets - latest news

Raf Sanchez , our Middle East Correspondent , has answers to the key questions following the Iranian missile strike .
Iran is signaling that it does not plan further direct attacks against the US and is not looking for further escalation .
“ Iran took and concluded proportionate measures in self-defence , ” said Javad Zarif , Iran ’ s foreign minister .
“ We do not seek escalation or war , but will defend ourselves against any aggression.
” What happens next ?
The ball is firmly in Donald Trump ’ s court .
The US president must decide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Iranian missiles and move on , in which case there is a good chance the cycle of escalation stops , or whether American credibility and his own political prestige demand that the US retaliates .
If he chooses the second option we should expect more shooting in the days to come .
Mr Trump is due to speak on Wednesday morning US time but his early response has been uncharacteristically relaxed .
Is this enough to satisfy Iran ’ s need for revenge ?
It will be a bit humbling for Iran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Soleimani ’ s death is essentially a fireworks show that didn ’ t kill anyone .
But there may also be sighs of relief in Tehran that no Americans were killed as the Iranian regime is eager to avoid a head-on war with superior US forces .
And it can muddy the waters in the information war by suggesting to its own public that the Western media is lying that there were no US casualties .
Meanwhile , it is likely to continue planning covert action against US interests .
Is it politically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Mr Trump threatened last week to hit 52 targets in Iran in retaliation for any Iranian strike and his public image is built upon being the tough man who brooks no defiance from Iran .
So it will be a bit of a political climb down for him to let these missiles go unanswered .
But there is a political win here for Mr Trump if he chooses to take it .
He doesn ’ t want a war with Iran and he knows the American public doesn ’ t either .

A senior Iraqi cleric has urged supporters not to attack the United States, shortly after Donald Trump said Iran appeared to be backing down from its bellicose threats.
"I call on the Iraqi factions to be deliberate, patient, and not to start military actions, and to shut down the extremist voices of some rogue elements until all political, parliamentary and international methods have been exhausted," said influential Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr.
It came after Donald Trump urged Britain and others to "recognise reality" and withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal in response to an Iranian missile strike on US forces in Iraq earlier on Wednesday.
The US president said Iran appeared to be backing down after it fired the 22 missiles, but announced fresh sanctions on Iran and he singled out the United Kingdom as one of the members of the ailing nuclear deal, urging Boris Johnson to follow America's lead and withdraw from the pact. Mr Trump pulled out of the nuclear deal in 2018.
"The very defective JCPOA expires shortly anyway and gives Iran a clear and quick path to nuclear breakout," he told a press conference at the White House.
"Iran must abandon its nuclear ambitions and end its support for terrorism...the time has come for the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Russia and China to recognise this reality."
He added: "They must now break away from the remnants of the Iran deal - or JCPOA - and we must all work together towards making a deal with Iran that makes the world a safer and more peaceful place."
It came as US officials speculated that Iran 'aimed to miss' when it fired missiles at US forces, it emerged there were no casualties in the rocket barrage.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Iran fires 22 missiles at US targets in Iraq in retaliation for killing of Qassim Soleimani

Iran has vowed to expel US forces from the region after it launched a wave of missile strikes on two @ @ @ @ @ forces .
In the early hours of Wednesday morning , Iran fired 22 missiles into @ @ @ @ @ US base near Erbil as well as the Ain al-Assad base in Anbar province .
@ @ @ @ @ say the barrage of missiles did not cause any casualties , though terrified Iraqis posted @ @ @ @ @ exploding nearby .
At least one missile missed altogether , landing harmlessly near its target @ @ @ @ @ that its troops were hiding in bunkers before the missiles landed , following a warning @ @ @ @ @ .
Iran 's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has made clear that Iran 's ballistic @ @ @ @ @ for the US killing of Revolutionary Guard General Qassim Soleimani .

Iran has vowed to expel US forces from the region after it launched a wave of missile strikes on two bases in Iraq hosting American forces.
In the early hours of Wednesday morning, Iran fired 22 missiles into neighbouring Iraq, targeting a US base near Erbil as well as the Ain al-Assad base in Anbar province.
US and Iraqi officials both say the barrage of missiles did not cause any casualties, though terrified Iraqis posted footage online of the rockets exploding nearby.
At least one missile missed altogether, landing harmlessly near its target.
US media reports suggest that its troops were hiding in bunkers before the missiles landed, following a warning from a missile detection system.
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has made clear that Iran's ballistic missile strikes were in revenge for the US killing of Revolutionary Guard General Qassim Soleimani.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Rome bans souvenir stalls to ease overcrowding and 'protect' the city's image

Tourist trinket stalls in an array of iconic locations in Rome are to be banned in an attempt to clear up unsightly clutter in the city ’ s historic centre .
Under new regulations introduced this month by the city council , stall owners selling fridge magnets , rosary beads , novelty statues of Pope Francis and keyrings in locations such as the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps have been told to move on .
The souvenir stands are often placed right in front of monuments , obscuring the view for visitors and adding to the congestion of the capital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total of 17 stalls have been given their marching orders , including those that have occupied prime spots for years outside the Pantheon , the Trevi Fountain , around the Spanish Steps and in Piazza Navona , an oval-shaped piazza that was once an ancient Roman chariot track .
The city council , led by mayor Viriginia Raggi , said the stalls were “ incompatible with decorum and security.
” Their removal was intended to “ protect the cultural and monumental heritage of the capital , as well as public safety in crowded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be allowed to relocate to new spots in streets a little way away from the tourist attractions .
The regulations , which came into force on January 1 , were first mooted last April .
The stalls , which for years have done a brisk trade flogging plastic statues of Michelangelo ’ s David and miniature gladiator figurines , “ ruin the image of Rome , ” Ms Raggi said at the time .
“ For years , the monuments of the city have been tarnished by vendors who sell drinks , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s architectural jewels .
This is no longer tolerable , ” said the mayor , a member of the Five Star Movement , which governs at national level in coalition with the centre-Left Democratic Party .
Stall owners are , not surprisingly , upset by the new regime , arguing that they provide a service to tourists .
Many of them are Jewish and point out that their licences were granted by the Vatican in the 19th century , when it was considered unseemly for Catholics to make money out of selling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In Italian they are nicknamed “ urtisti ” from the verb to bump , because they used to wear trays around their neck , occasionally knocking into people as they purveyed their wares .
“ This has been in my family for seven generations , ” Angelo Di Porto , who runs a stall directly in front of the Trevi Fountain , told The Telegraph last year .
“ We pay an annual rent and a whole range of taxes , so we are a legitimate business .
“ Most of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jewish , ” said Mr Di Porto .
“ My ancestors came here as slaves from Jerusalem when the city was sacked by ( the Roman emperor ) Titus .
We are among the true Romans.
” Two associations that represent the hawkers have pledged to fight the new regulations through a regional administrative tribunal , saying that not enough alternative sites have been offered to the stall owners .

Tourist trinket stalls in an array of iconic locations in Rome are to be banned in an attempt to clear up unsightly clutter in the city’s historic centre.
Under new regulations introduced this month by the city council, stall owners selling fridge magnets, rosary beads, novelty statues of Pope Francis and keyrings in locations such as the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps have been told to move on.
The souvenir stands are often placed right in front of monuments, obscuring the view for visitors and adding to the congestion of the capital’s most popular sights.
A total of 17 stalls have been given their marching orders, including those that have occupied prime spots for years outside the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, around the Spanish Steps and in Piazza Navona, an oval-shaped piazza that was once an ancient Roman chariot track.
The city council, led by mayor Virginia Raggi, said the stalls were “incompatible with decorum and security.”
Their removal was intended to “protect the cultural and monumental heritage of the capital, as well as public safety in crowded areas.”
A total of 17 stalls have been given their marching orders Credit : getty
Of the 17, eight will be allowed to relocate to new spots in streets a little way away from the tourist attractions.
The regulations, which came into force on January 1, were first mooted last April.
The stalls, which for years have done a brisk trade flogging plastic statues of Michelangelo’s David and miniature gladiator figurines, “ruin the image of Rome,” Ms Raggi said at the time.
“For years, the monuments of the city have been tarnished by vendors who sell drinks, panini and trinkets in front of Rome’s architectural jewels. This is no longer tolerable,” said the mayor, a member of the Five Star Movement, which governs at national level in coalition with the centre-Left Democratic Party.
Stall owners are, not surprisingly, upset by the new regime, arguing that they provide a service to tourists.
Many of them are Jewish and point out that their licences were granted by the Vatican in the 19th century, when it was considered unseemly for Catholics to make money out of selling religious objects such as crucifixes and rosaries.
In Italian they are nicknamed “urtisti” from the verb to bump, because they used to wear trays around their neck, occasionally knocking into people as they purveyed their wares.
“This has been in my family for seven generations,” Angelo Di Porto, who runs a stall directly in front of the Trevi Fountain, told The Telegraph last year.
“We pay an annual rent and a whole range of taxes, so we are a legitimate business.
“Most of the families that run the stalls are still Jewish,” said Mr Di Porto. “My ancestors came here as slaves from Jerusalem when the city was sacked by (the Roman emperor) Titus. We are among the true Romans.”
Two associations that represent the hawkers have pledged to fight the new regulations through a regional administrative tribunal, saying that not enough alternative sites have been offered to the stall owners.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--PhD student took her own life after classmates mocked her for not being 'posh enough', inquest hears

A PhD student took her own life after her classmates mocked her for not being “ posh enough ” and not knowing how to sail , an inquest has heard .
Jessica Small , a 26-year-old anthropology student at the University of Kent , suffered from low-self esteem after being allegedly bullied for being state-educated and having a different accent to her privately educated peers .
Her long-running symptoms of anxiety and depression were exacerbated by the “ toxic ” environment present in the university 's laboratory , according to her mother , Lesley , who said she was also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was found hanged at her home in Canterbury on October 11 last year .
She had been taking antidepressants and undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy at the time of her death .
Her mother today told the Maidstone hearing : “ She really had such low self-esteem .
She was questioning whether she should be doing the PhD .
She was getting palpitations and having sweats to the point that she was getting panic attacks .
She told me people in her lab made her life hell , that it was toxic .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone through state education and the others had gone through private education .
She 'was n't posh enough ' .
She put a lot of pressure on herself .
She told me about being mocked for her accent and because she 'd never been sailing .
”

A PhD student took her own life after her classmates mocked her for not being “posh enough” and not knowing how to sail, an inquest has heard.
Jessica Small, a 26-year-old anthropology student at the University of Kent, suffered from low-self esteem after being allegedly bullied for being state-educated and having a different accent to her privately schooled peers.
Her long-running symptoms of anxiety and depression were exacerbated by the “toxic” environment present in the university's laboratory, according to her mother, Lesley, who said she was also struggling with her thesis.
Ms Small was found hanged at her home in Canterbury on October 11 last year.
She had been taking antidepressants and undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy at the time of her death.
Speaking at the Maidstone hearing, her mother said: “She really had such low self-esteem. She was questioning whether she should be doing the PhD. She was getting palpitations and having sweats to the point that she was getting panic attacks. She told me people in her lab made her life hell, that it was toxic.
“The underlying issue was that Jess had gone through state education and the others had gone through private education. She 'wasn't posh enough'. She put a lot of pressure on herself. She told me about being mocked for her accent and because she'd never been sailing.”


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--The best cordless vacuums on the market

The best cordless vacuums on the market

When Dyson unveiled the Cyclone V10 it was more than just a regular announcement .
No longer , said founder James Dyson , would the company develop traditional corded vacuums ; all future investment will go to improving cordless models .
Cordless vacuums ( ie battery- rather than mains-powered ) are still in their infancy , and represent a relatively low percentage of the market share .
But Dyson 's statement feels like a concrete sign of things to come : they 've seen the future , and it 's cord-free .
With that vision as the backdrop , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also known as stick vacuum cleaners – stack up against traditional options ( spoiler : pretty well ) , and which will best help you keep your house squeaky clean .
We 've consulted with experts , posed as buyers in shops , and cleaned our houses more times than necessary in order to find the right option for you .
To test out the cordless vacuums , we put them through regular tasks – carpets , wood floors , cars – and rated them for weight , ease of use , battery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proved very easy to put together out of the box , come with several detachable components , and include chargers that can be connected to wall mounts for convenience .
They make life easy , in other words .

While still not as powerful as their mains-powered counterparts (especially the most powerful cylinder vacuum cleaners), new technology such as long-lasting lithium-ion batteries means that the best cordless vacuum cleaners from brands like Shark, Dyson and Vax now offer enough cleaning power for most homes, in a much lighter, more manoeuvrable and affordable format.
Cordless vacuums use less electricity than traditional vacuum cleaners, since they have smaller motors and only draw power when they’re recharging. That becomes more and more appealing as the cost of energy rises. (Admittedly robot vacuum cleaners use even less, but those remain a niche proposition.) If you need a vacuum for pet hair removal, especially from sofas and beds, a light and handy cordless makes a lot of sense.
Another factor in their popularity is that they’re often discounted. Scroll down for our full reviews of the ten best cordless vacuums on the market this year, followed by answers to some frequently asked questions, such as how long the batteries last. If you’re in a rush, here’s a quick look at our top five:
The best cordless vacuum cleaners for 2023, at a glance
How to choose the best vacuum cleaner
There are a few factors to consider when shopping. The first is suction power. Cordless models are low on suction power compared to plug-ins, but some are more powerful than others. Most can tackle most dirt, grime and surface stains. For more persistent staining you may need a carpet cleaner or a steam cleaner.
The second factor is weight, as some of the heavier cordless vacuum cleaners make hoovering your sitting room seem like an upper-body workout.
The third is battery life: the vacuum cleaner you choose will need to last long enough to get round your home on one charge, otherwise it will take just as much effort to clean with as a corded model. Don’t expect to get much more than quarter of an hour’s use when cleaning carpets. Always use less energy-intensive hard floor modes where possible to extend the run-time.
It’s also worth bearing in mind any extra features you want – we consider extra tools, such as a dust brush and crevice tool, to be essential. And, as you’ll see below, some models offer extra batteries, light-up floor heads and other extras to make cleaning easier than ever before. For these, though, you’ll likely pay a premium.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--The best frying pans you can buy, from cast iron to non-stick and stainless steel

To find the best frying pans on the market , we asked chefs , food writers , and cookware professionals for their thoughts , and then put the standout items to the test in The Telegraph kitchen .
After consulting with the experts , we decided that the pan we 're looking for is versatile ( it can cook different types of food to good effect ) , durable ( it wo n't end up in the bin after three months ) , and good value for money , meaning it 's either pleasingly affordable or so long-lasting that you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ item again .
There are a lot of different types of frying pan out there , so we narrowed our search to three main fields : iron pans ( highly durable but harder to maintain ) , non-stick pans ( easy to maintain but less durable ) and stainless steel ( highly spoken of by the pros but tricky to use ) .
Each frying pan was tested for a variety of regular functions : frying or scrambling eggs , searing steaks , sautéing vegetables .
We also considered : weight , ease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , washing , and more .
Below is our pick of the best frying pans on the market , across the range of styles , followed by an expert-led explanation of the pros and cons of each type of frying pan .
• See also : Telegraph Recommended 's review of the best air fryers , best induction hobs and the best woks that money can buy Why we like it : the heat retention is superb and the single-sheet design means it will last longer than a lifetime

The GreenPan is one of the new generation of ceramic non-stick pans (like the Scanpan) that seem almost frictionless on first use; you pop in a rasher of bacon and it slides around like a pig in mud. The ceramic coating is PFOA-free, and the general build quality feels good: the handle fits solidly in your palm, the curved edges are just about perfect for tossing onions and associated vegetables.
At £40, it feels like an absolute steal... but there might be a problem. Some users report a decline in non-stickiness over time. Almost certainly, that's due to maintenance: GreenPan's website advises not to use extra virgin olive oil when cooking, as this can carbonise the surface, and metal utensils are also best avoided. However, the packaging on the product we tested doesn't mention this, which feels like an oversight, because many of us still cook with olive oil, even though we probably shouldn't.
Buy now
Which type of frying pan is the best for me?
Do you go iron, steel, or non-stick? We asked the experts for the virtues and vices of each...
Iron frying pans
Iron pans are formed by various different processes – they can be forged, spun, or cast – but they all tend to be expensive and require maintenance. Don't let that put you off: these are some of the most versatile, durable, and fun pieces of equipment you can own. The experts unanimously agreed that, while a cast iron frying pan isn't a one-size-fits-all option, it's unbeatable for certain tasks.
"I swear by a cast iron griddle pan for grilling meat and veggies," says Alexandra Dudley, author of sustainable eating cookbook Land & Sea. "Mine is a Le Creuset one and was my grandmother's. It has never been washed with soap, only washed and oiled. I think this is the magic to good griddle flavour."
So, aside from durability (many come with lifetime warranties; our favourite, the Solidteknics, is covered for a "multi-century" life), and a special flavour developed from years of use, why go for iron?
Jason Moran, owner of Season Cookshop, says the main benefits are as follows: you can expose cast iron to high heats; iron is excellent at retaining its heat; and you can get a degree of non-stick. "When you're frying eggs, if you crack three eggs they'll all cook at the same temperature rather than one bubbling away and one remaining lukewarm," Moran explains.
Cast iron pans require attention and care to remain well-seasoned. After washing, pans should be dried and a thin layer of oil applied. This prevents rust and helps build up a non-stick layer (the layer won't come immediately but, rather, will grow over time). When the non-stick layer builds up, you shouldn't have any trouble making foods that might stick, like scrambled eggs and omelettes, but you'll need a bit more oil than a non-stick for these tasks.
The good news is if your seasoning is ruined for whatever reason - such as scraping it off with soap - you can start the seasoning process again. The downside of constantly oiling is that you'll have a slightly greasy pan in your cupboard. "Not everyone likes the idea of putting a pan coated in oil in their designer kitchen," says Moran.
Cleaning a cast iron pan isn't as easy as a non-stick. Because of the patina that builds up, you shouldn't use detergent, which can strip away the hard-earned oils. Just wash with hot water, scrape off any excess food, and wipe clean with some kitchen towel. Dry the pan after washing, to prevent rusting, before re-applying a layer of oil.
Cast iron pans are great for gas hobs as they can withstand the high temperatures. They can also be bunged in the oven at full whack or used on barbecues. They are usually compatible with induction hobs, too.
Finally, it's worth noting that acidic food can corrode the non-stick surface, leading to another bout of re-seasoning. Anyone who uses their pans to cook a lot of tomato sauces are advised to look at other options - stainless steel works well.
Non-stick frying pans
Non-stick frying pans feature a layer of artificial or ceramic coating on the pan's surface that prevent foods from sticking. The best non-stick pans can reduce the amount of oil you use, making for a healthier meal. As with cast iron, the pans must be looked after carefully to remain effective.
Teflon, or PTFE, is what makes the surface slippery. PFOA, an acid used in the creation of PTFE, has been linked to cancer, which puts some people off, although it should be noted that the level of exposure is small. Tefal pans, one of the most recognisable on the high street, are PFOA-free, as are most of the better non-stick pans now.
Ceramic non-stick pans are PFOA- and PTFE-free. The ceramic layer usually coats an aluminium or stainless steel pan. Ceramic pans are often more heat resistant than Teflon, but there are several reports of short lifespans and the non-stick wearing off within a few years.
"Around 95pc of people want non-stick even cooking," Moran explains. "They're a staple pan." You can quickly and easily make your scrambled or fried eggs in the morning, sauté vegetables, or cook your whole fry up.
Good non-stick frying pans are incredibly easy to wash – food should slide off as you hand wash, and you can use a little washing up liquid if you need. Dishwashers should be avoided, as it will "fire a load of salt at the surface, which won't do the lifetime of the non-stick much good," says Moran.
Speaking of lifespan, a non-stick will never last as long as a cast iron or steel pan. If you're looking for a pan that will last forever, then best look elsewhere. But there are some simple measures to help get as many years as possible from a non-stick pan. Firstly, don't overheat it, especially if it's coated in Teflon. "Heat and plastic don't go well together," Moran explains. "The higher you crank up the heat, the faster it'll deteriorate." Some cheaper models are not oven-friendly; better pans will have a heat limit displayed in the product info. Moran expects a good, well-treated non-stick pan to last a decade.
Additionally, you should never use a metal utensil, as this scratches the surface, ruining the non-stick and probably sending you back to the shop to buy another pan (as your warranty is unlikely to cover scratches).
The benefit of non-stick pans is that they're quick and easy to produce, making them more affordable and a doddle to cook with; using less oil is an added bonus. Every amateur kitchen should have one – they make many basic tasks much simpler. But Moran recommends keeping a cast iron or stainless steel pan alongside, for when you need more heat. "If people bought both, we wouldn't have so many people bringing their frying pans back to the shops," he quips.
Stainless steel frying pans
"Stainless steel pans are the choice of the professional kitchen mainly because they're the most difficult to destroy," says Moran. You can bash them about with metal utensils, put them through the dishwasher, and it'll make no difference to the pan.
Why choose stainless steel? They're sturdy, durable, and cheaper than iron, for starters.. Stainless steel pans maintain their heat well, which results in even cooking. The iron in the steel makes them induction-compatible, too.
A stainless steel pan cannot be seasoned like a cast iron pan – it'll never be truly non-stick. This makes them unsuitable for certain tasks. While a professional chef can scramble an egg in a steel pan thanks to the Leidenfrost effect (cooking at an extremely precise temperature), "us mere mortals will find this very difficult, and will be faced with a pan of egg glue," Moran explains.
But fear not, because for some foods, steel frying pans are perfect. An oiled steak, for example, will adhere to the pan for around 30 seconds, creating a deep, caramelised colour you cannot find with non-stick. You can also flambé without fear of flames damaging the pan. "I'd recommend domestic cooks buy a steel pan as a secondary pan for these specialised uses," says Moran.
Stainless steel pans are cheaper than iron, yet still sturdy and durable, but not a good heat conductor, so the pan should feature a layer of copper or aluminium, otherwise it'll take time to heat up. The best I tried, the ProCook Elite Tri-Ply, has an aluminium core. Le Creuset's range of steel pans, which have an aluminium layer as well, are a little pricier but also designed to last.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Grapefruit, fennel, burrata, olive oil and sea salt

This combination of sweet , fresh and crisp , salty , creamy and fatty is so enlivening .
Use your favourite extra-virgin olive oil to drizzle over it .
The burrata , a creamy white cheese made by forming a pouch of mozzarella and stuffing it with shredded mozzarella scraps and cream , is delicious with the citrus segments and a touch of chilli and salt .
• About 8 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil ( you may want to use a little bit more ) • Prepare both grapefruit .
Cut a slice from the top and the bottom of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its base and slice off the peel and pith , cutting from top to bottom and following the curve all the way round .
Cut the fruit into thin slices , removing any seeds .
Pour the juice that gathers on your chopping board into a small bowl .
• Put the lemon juice in a medium bowl .
Quarter the fennel and remove any coarse outer layer ( this layer can sometimes be discoloured in patches ) .
Trim the tips and remove and reserve any fronds .
• Cut the core @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mandolin or a very sharp knife , shave or slice the fennel very thinly , lengthwise , adding it to the lemon juice as soon as it ’ s cut ( the juice stops it discolouring ) .
• Put the fennel and the citrus fruits on a platter .
Scatter with the fennel seeds , salt and chilli , and add any of the little fronds you reserved .
Add the collected grapefruit juice and 4 tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil .
• Put the burrata on top , grind on some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on each bit of cheese and add some more oil .
• As soon as you break open the burrata the cream on the inside runs out and mixes with the oil and juices .
Do this immediately before serving , or serve the balls of burrata whole for the juices to remain vibrant .

This combination of sweet, fresh and crisp, salty, creamy and fatty is so enlivening. Use your favourite extra-virgin olive oil to drizzle over it.
The burrata, a creamy white cheese made by forming a pouch of mozzarella and stuffing it with shredded mozzarella scraps and cream, is delicious with the citrus segments and a touch of chilli and salt.
Prep time: 15 minutes
SERVES
Four
INGREDIENTS
1 pink grapefruit
1 white grapefruit
Juice of 1 lemon
1 large fennel bulb or 2 medium ones
¼ tsp fennel seeds, very lightly toasted, then crushed
Sea salt
1 red chilli, halved, deseeded and finely shredded
About 8 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (you may want to use a little bit more)
2 x 200g tubs of burrata, or 4 x 100g tubs
METHOD


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--The best yoga mats

The best yoga mats

As you 're probably already aware , yoga is booming at the moment ( yoga was even one of the @ @ @ @ @ in the UK in 2016 ) .
Increasingly , it feels like you ca n't @ @ @ @ @ into someone with a rolled-up yoga mat under their arm .
The best thing about @ @ @ @ @ suppleness , the zen , the fact that it can prolong your healthiness and happiness @ @ @ @ @ to entry is incredibly low .
In terms of equipment , all you need to @ @ @ @ @ .
So we set about testing and reviewing the best options on the market in @ @ @ @ @ your decision .
Considering factors like durability , material , texture , thickness , comfort @ @ @ @ @ , we stretched and downward dogged our way to discovering which mat is the best @ @ @ @ @ we found when testing the best yoga mats around , starting with our very favourite @ @ @ @ @ : Ethically made , and wonderfully durable .
Should last for life .

Given its transformative benefits for mind and body, the barrier for entry to yoga is low. You need very little specialised clothing or equipment – in fact, all you need is a mat.
The best yoga mat will provide you with a stable, grippy surface on which to practice. There is nothing less zen than finding your hands are slipping forward in downward facing dog, or that your peaceful warrior pose isn't feeling all that peaceful because your mat won't stay in place. To maintain a consistent yoga practice, a decent mat is key. We've reviewed the best yoga mats in depth below, but here's a quick summary:
The best yoga mats, at a glance
Unlike other fitness equipment such as rowing machines and treadmills, a yoga mat won't clean out your bank account – some mats are as little as £20. But not just any old mat will do – Emma Henry, an expert yoga teacher at Triyoga, says that investing in a decent model will pay dividends further down the line.
“There’s nothing more frustrating in a fast-paced Vinyasa flow than slipping, so enough grip is key,” says Henry, who recommends the Liforme mat (see below). “There are cheaper ones available that are decent, but they might not last as long.”
How I tested the best yoga mats
I did a session with YouTube sensation Yoga with Adriene on each mat, plus a quick HIIT (high intensity interval training) workout. I’ve stretched, shimmied and shavasana-ed my way through testing a broad selection of yoga mats during both high and low intensity exercise to compile this list of the best.
The best yoga mats
1. Lululemon The Mat 5mm
£88, Lululemon
Best overall yoga mat, 10/10
We like: the double-sided design
We don't like: it doesn't come with a carry strap or bag


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--The best chef's knives

The best chef's knives

Unlike several kitchen tasks , cutting , chopping , slicing and dicing is still mostly done by hand .
While many of us have modernised our kitchens with high-tech toasters , smoothie machines and slow cookers , possibly the most ancient device of all , the knife , remains .
`` There is no object you own that is anything like your kitchen knife , '' writes Tim Hayward in Knife : The Cult , Craft and Culture of the Cook 's Knife .
`` Every day you pick it up and use it to create and transform .
Eight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ metal lying on your kitchen table , possessing the same potential for mayhem as a loaded handgun – and yet it is predominantly used to express your love for your family by making their tea . ''
Unlike other utensils , knives require time and effort ( to master the techniques ) , and love and care ( to ensure they remain in top condition for years ) .
Perhaps it 's unsurprising they inspire an almost cult-like following .
The most important knife is the all-purpose , versatile , sturdy , roughly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flog expensive knife sets , all the experts I spoke to recommend forking out ( sorry ) on a good chef 's knife .
Knives you might also want include a carving knife , a paring knife and a bread knife .
However , you do n't need the several iterations of the same blade you get with a set .

Finding the best kitchen knife is no simple matter. Chefs’ knives are used in different ways for dicing veg, slicing salad, carving meat and cleaving joints and come in different thicknesses, types of steel, lengths and styles. Should you go for a Japanese or German-style knife? Carbon steel or stainless steel? It’s a lot to take in.
Let’s start with the question of what your knife should be made of. “Some people will tell you carbon steel has the edge for hardness and durability – and back in the 70s and 80s, when stainless steel was generally industrial and some was quite bad, that might have been true,” says Laurie Timpson, a knifemaker at Savernake Knives. “But it’s not corrosion resistant. Good stainless steel today is definitely preferable.”
Knife-making is a trade off between hardness and brittleness. “If you try to sharpen a banana it won’t develop a very sharp edge, because it’s a soft material. At the other end of the scale, if you sharpen glass it will get very sharp indeed, but it’s very brittle,” says Timpson.
Decent chef’s knives can broadly be separated into two categories: Japanese and German (also known as Western-style, including brands such as Wüsthof and Henckels). Japanese-style knives tend to have a straighter blade and be made from harder (and so slightly more brittle) steel. German knives are heavier, tougher and have a rounded blade.
“In the broadest terms, European chefs tend to rock the blade, which is why the knives have a pronounced curve, whereas Japanese chefs tend to slice more, so their blades are straighter,” says Timpson. “It’s a different cuisine and a different method.” We’ve reviewed both German and Japanese knives below, but if you’re in a hurry here’s a quick look at our top five:
Which is the best kitchen knife in 2023? At a glance:
You will also need a knife sharpener to keep your knives in good condition. (See below for our favourite one.)
What should you look for in a kitchen knife?
“If anyone asks me what you should look for in a knife I’d say it’s the hardness, which should be as close to 60 as possible on the Rockwell hardness scale,” he continues. “But there’s a huge difference between the numbers, so if the knifemaker says their knives range between 55 and 58 Rockwell, that’s sort of like me telling a policeman I was driving somewhere between 10 and 80 miles an hour. 60 is really the top end. You might find some Japanese knives at 64, but that is just ridiculous.”
That brings us nicely to the question: exactly why is everyone so obsessed with Japanese knives? “It began when Global came on the scene in the 90s. Traditional Western knives weren’t much to look at, and they were pretty heavy. So the Japanese came along with a different aesthetic. They were lighter, that was the key thing, and significantly harder,” says Timpson. “For chefs, it was a quantum leap. Since then, other makers have caught up, though.”
How we tested the best kitchen knives


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Toyota announces new 'smart city' at CES 2020

Toyota is building on its existing research into modern living at Toyota Motor City at Nagoya in Japan by promising to build a 175-acre city of the future at the base of Mount Fuji .
The plans were announced on the opening day of the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas .
To be called Woven City , the houses will be part of a interconnected ecosystem powered by hydrogen fuel cells .
Full time residents and researchers will live in this `` living laboratory '' and will trial new advances in autonomy , robotics , personal mobility , smart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ researchers will be invited to bid to live in the city , which will be designed by Danish architect Bjarke Ingels , who designed the 2 World Trade Centre in New York .
Vehicle traffic will be separated according to the speed ( and potential for accidents ) into fast and slow traffic and pedestrians .
The buildings will be made mainly of wood , with Japanese joinery techniques mixed with robotised production , while autonomous vehicles will be used on the campus to ferry occupants and visitors around .
The plan is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more joining as the project evolves .
The city is scheduled to be started next year and more details can be found at the Woven-city.global website .

Toyota City of the future
Toyota is building on its existing research into modern living at Toyota Motor City at Nagoya in Japan by promising to build a 175-acre city of the future at the base of Mount Fuji. The plans were announced on the opening day of the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
To be called Woven City, the houses will be part of a interconnected ecosystem powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Full time residents and researchers will live in this "living laboratory" and will trial new advances in autonomy, robotics, personal mobility, smart homes and artificial intelligence.
Scientists and researchers will be invited to bid to live in the city, which will be designed by Danish architect Bjarke Ingels, who designed the 2 World Trade Centre in New York.
Vehicle traffic will be separated according to the speed (and potential for accidents) into fast and slow traffic and pedestrians. The buildings will be made mainly of wood, with Japanese joinery techniques mixed with robotised production, while autonomous vehicles will be used on the campus to ferry occupants and visitors around. The plan is to start with 2,000 inhabitants, with more joining as the project evolves.
The city is scheduled to be started next year and more details can be found at the Woven-city.global website.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--The best electric heaters for portable use around the house

To keep things warm as the winter cold bites , you 'll most probably need heating and , if your central heating does n't quite cut it – or if you 're in an area with no gas heating – then a portable electric heater ( sometimes known as a space heater ) is worth considering .
`` Portable heaters are great for situations where heating has failed in your house , '' explains Rob Bennett , technical service manager at Pimlico Plumbers .
`` They are also great for camping and outdoors , when the cold hits . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ using an electric heater if only requiring short , targeted warmth .
For example , if you 're having a quick shower before leaving the house in the morning , you can use one in the bathroom rather than switching on the whole house 's central heating .
Or , if you have a small outside summer house that doubles as an office , a portable heater means you do n't have to worry about connecting the space to your central heating system .
Conversely , portable heaters are `` not so great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ large area where heat disperses quickly , '' Bennett warns , because they struggle to fill the space .
There are four main types of portable electric heater : • Fan heaters : Fan heaters use an electric coil to create heat , and then blow the warmth across the room .
They are cheap and light , but noisy .
They heat ( small ) rooms quickly but warmth can be quickly lost if you let in a draught .
• Convector heaters : Convector ( or convection ) heaters radiate warmth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heater , they have an internal heating element .
However , instead of using a fan to circulate the warmth , they wait for hot air to rise and be replaced by cool air , which then gets heated .
For this reason , convection heaters are slower to warm up than fans , but distribute heat more thoroughly .
You can pick up a model for £20 , but realistically the better products start at £50 and go north from there .
• Oil-filled heaters : According to Bennett , these are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They use an electrical current within thermal oil , heating the oil and circulating it around the heater , a bit like water in a radiator .
Oil-filled heaters tend to be more cumbersome than other types , as the oil adds weight , so they 're perhaps less portable .
They take a long time to warm up – normally somewhere in the range of 20 minutes – but they stay warm for a long time once they 're turned off .
Oil-filled radiators are cheap to run – and there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prices for a good model start roughly at the £50 mark .
• Halogen heaters : You 'll recognise these from pub gardens .
Halogen heaters radiate heat directly onto objects , rather than relying on convection to circulate the warmth .
As a result , halogen heaters work quickly , and they 're efficient – so cheap to run .
They 're also light and portable .
However , they struggle in large spaces .
Like most portable heaters , you can pick one up for under £20 , but can easily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we take you through our favourite portable electric heaters , covering a range of styles , before explaining the pros and cons of each type , with a little help from the experts .
Why we like it : Slimline build , quick heating and several different programmes to get just what you need

FAQ
How much does it cost to run an electric heater?
Oil-filled heaters
According to technical service manager at Pimlico Plumbers Bennett, these are the most efficient on the whole. They use an electrical current within thermal oil, heating the oil and circulating it around the heater, a bit like water in a radiator. They are convection heaters, meaning that as the heat rises it draws in cooler air in underneath to be heated in turn - an effect that works best in well-sealed rooms.
Oil-filled heaters tend to be more cumbersome, as the oil adds weight, and can take a long time to warm up – upwards of 20 minutes – but they stay warm for a long time once they're turned off. Oil-filled radiators are relatively cheap to run, costing as little as 26p per hour at today's prices, and there is no need to replace the oil. Prices for a good model start roughly at the £50 mark.
Halogen heaters
Often used outdoors as patio heaters, these radiate heat directly onto objects, rather than relying on convection to circulate the warmth. They're light and portable and cost around 50p per hour to run (based on a 1500W heater on maximum setting). However, they struggle in large spaces. Like most portable heaters, you can pick one up for under £20, but can easily spend over £100, too.
Fan heaters
These use an electric coil to create heat and then blow the warmth across the room. They are cheap and light, but noisy and the warmth can be quickly lost if you let in a draught. Modern models use ceramic elements, which get more resistant as they get hotter (they have a “positive thermal coefficient”). This means they produce heat more quickly and retain it better, making them cheaper to run than fan heaters used to be — as long as you use the thermostat wisely. Otherwise you could easily wind up spending over £1 an hour. Scroll to the bottom of this feature for more detail on the cost of electricity.
What extra features should I look out for?
The most useful addition is a timer, allowing you to set the heating for the moment you wake up or arrive home. Upmarket models use an app for this, although you'd get much the same functionality with a smart plug.
Frost protection is a common extra and sees the heater automatically switch on when the room goes below 5C.
Many fan heaters also have a cold air setting – they essentially double up as fans in the summer. While not as potent as air conditioners, it could save you having to fit both appliances into your house.
How safe are portable electric heaters?
The most important thing is to never place anything combustible on or too close to the appliance. If using a fan heater, consider whether anything nearby can be blown over (it's also worth noting that fan heaters should be placed in sufficient space to facilitate an airflow from behind).
Many heaters will come with tilt protection: should something knock it over, like a pet or a small child, it will switch off. Most also have overheat protection, switching the appliance off before it can reach flammable temperatures if, for example, a coat is accidentally placed on top of the heater.
According to Electrical Safety First, there are several other safety measures to implement: Never leave portable heaters unattended. Never leave them on while asleep. Position them away from anything which can knock them over. Keep at least a metre away from combustible materials. Never buy second-hand halogen heaters. Never power a halogen heater from an extension lead. Regularly inspect your heater and don't use if it is damaged.
* The cost of one kiloWatt-hour of electricity is capped at 34p under the Energy Price Guarantee announced by the Government in October 2022. Although prices do vary by region and contract (economy 7 tariffs are more expensive by day and cheaper by night, for example), we use the capped price to estimate running costs. If the average variable unit price for energy changes, this article will be updated accordingly.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Ofcom plans set to supercharge fibre broadband rollout

Ofcom has set out plans to overhaul the UK 's ageing copper broadband network and make fibre broadband available to all .
The telecoms regulator claimed that its proposed changes to the regulation of the Openreach network , which is owned by BT , would allow for “ supercharged ” investment in broadband .
The watchdog outlined a new regime for the network with different rules for rural and urban areas to ensure no part of the country is left behind to take effect between 2021 and 2026 .
Broadband became an issue in last month ’ s election after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free internet for all and Prime Minister Boris Johnson pledged to roll out fibre broadband to all homes within five years .
Fibre broadband connections can deliver much faster speeds than traditional copper with speeds of up to one gigabit per second .
Ofcom ’ s interim chief executive Jonathan Oxley said the proposed changes will help bring full fibre to the whole country .
“ We ’ re removing the remaining roadblocks to investment and supporting competition , so companies can build the networks that will drive the UK into the digital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Full-fibre broadband is much faster and more reliable .
It ’ s vital that people and businesses everywhere – whether in rural areas , smaller towns or cities – can enjoy these benefits .
So we ’ re making sure companies have the right incentives to accelerate full fibre to every part of the UK .
”

Ofcom has forecast that Britain will quickly overtake European rivals in the race to build full-fibre broadband networks after revealing a market shake-up designed to unleash investment.
Jonathan Oxley, the communications watchdog’s interim chief executive, said that the new regime should mean that the UK will overhaul the lead of France and Spain by the middle of the decade.
Ofcom announced proposals to loosen regulations on BT’s network arm, Openreach, and tip the balance of the market in favour of the infrastructure investment demanded by the Government.
Mr Oxley said: “This gives me confidence that by the middle of the decade the UK should catch up with the leading European competitors and I think overtake them in terms of full fibre coverage and penetration.”
Currently only about one in 10 British homes and businesses are connected to a full-fibre network, compared with four out of five Spanish premises. The technology offers faster internet access and much greater reliability than is possible via ageing copper telephone wires.
Ofcom’s new regime is meant to encourage BT to invest by allowing Openreach to effectively force broadband retailers including Sky and TalkTalk to quickly shift customers off copper and onto newly installed fibre. The old network will be gradually shut down as the rollout progresses to save costs.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--The best electric toothbrushes

The best electric toothbrushes

If you brush your teeth regularly and properly you could live longer .
That 's no exaggeration .
The research is overwhelming : our oral hygiene has the ability to affect our general health , and having the best electric toothbrush is crucial .
Four years ago , for example , scientists discovered that brushing your teeth regularly could slow down the progression of Alzheimer 's disease .
The research found that gum disease can speed up mental decline six times .
How do you go about upping your oral hygiene game ( short of becoming best friends with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electric toothbrush and , over the past fifty years or so , they have become staples in bathrooms all over the world , to the point where yesterday they were added to the ONS inflation basket , a telltale sign of their growing popularity .
But is an electric model really what 's best for you ?
To answer that question , we spoke with dentists and tested a range of models , from cheap , basic electric toothbrushes to high-tech smart ones .
Here 's what we learned , starting with our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an all-rounder with a smart look

Timer and pressure sensor with 3D teeth tracking
Seven cleaning modes (daily clean, sensitive, gum care, intense clean, whitening, super sensitive and tongue clean)
3hr quick charge, max 14 day battery life
Links to phone app and smart charging station
Reviewed by Simon Lewis
If you thought the Philips Sonicare was expensive, hold onto your hat. At full price, Oral-B’s range-topping iO10 costs £800. That is such an insane amount of money to spend on a toothbrush that it’s hard to imagine who the target market is. However, having used it for a month, I think I can see why it exists. It’s the toothbrush your dentist would want you to use. All those things she tells you to do, and you fib that you will, from flossing and mouthwashing to gum and tongue care, are much more likely to happen when you use the iO10 and its all-encompassing app.
The brush itself is high quality, as you’d hope. It has a smooth magnetic stand that holds a charge for around two weeks. The head is slimmer than other brushes and more easily reaches the hard-to-brush back teeth and inner surfaces. (Replacement heads are £30 for two.) It vibrates at a much higher frequency than the Oral-B Pro I’ve been using for years. The feel is reminiscent of going to the dental hygienist for a deep clean.
However, you’d get all this from the iO9, iO8 and iO7 – the latter usually being sold for £150. What you’re really paying for here is the app. If you’re willing to look at your phone while brushing your teeth, it gives you live feedback using a map of your mouth, divided into 16 zones. As you move the brush around your teeth, the app tracks its position and pressure. If you’re brushing correctly, you can watch as each zone goes from blue to light blue, to white and finally sparkling white.
It’s quite fun and you get a report at the end, used to set cleaning challenges and win medals. It’s the same ‘game-ification’ that the language-learning app Duolingo uses to make you stick to your goals. You can choose a ‘journey’ – fresh breath, plaque fighter, whitening, gum health or ortho care – each with different advice and different cleaning modes to use.
The trouble is, who has their phone with them when they’re brushing their teeth? Under-25s, possibly. But are they the demographic with £800 to spend on a brush?
It’s true you can still get the progress reports and ‘journeys’ if you leave your phone in the bedroom – the toothbrush talks to the app via Bluetooth – but in practice I found that I stopped bothering after a few days. On the plus side, those few days’ guidance were enough to change how I brush my teeth. I spend much longer on each zone now, trying to get the little smiley face on the toothbrush’s built-in screen that says I’ve done well.
If we only went by quality, the iO10 would be on the top of our list. But we have to take price into consideration and we’re not going to pretend that £800 - or even the £500 it’s usually sold for - is anywhere near reasonable. It’s possible that the iO10’s true purpose at the top of the Oral-B range is to make the others (like the iO4, below) look like a bargain by comparison. In which case, fine. We’ll call this the theoretical number one toothbrush.


Carrot-top pesto recipe

Carrot tops make a good pesto , but leave out the stems , which are tough .
For the best @ @ @ @ @ the ingredients in a pestle and mortar – but it ’ s still worth making @ @ @ @ @ the food processor .
Any dry , hard cheese will work for this recipe .
@ @ @ @ @ course , parmesan are ideal .
Although ordinary cheddar is a bit too moist , @ @ @ @ @ of cheddar that ’ s been lurking in the back of the fridge will do @ @ @ @ @ carrot leaves finely and put them in a pestle and mortar with the garlic and @ @ @ @ @ .
Pound to a paste , then add the cashew nuts and pound again .
@ @ @ @ @ pound one last time to make a nubbly paste ( alternatively , put all the @ @ @ @ @ processor and whizz to a paste ) .
• Stir in the olive oil .
@ @ @ @ @ .
Store in a jar in the fridge for up to a week .

Carrot tops make a good pesto, but leave out the stems, which are tough. For the best flavour and texture, pound the ingredients in a pestle and mortar – but it’s still worth making with a quick whizz in the food processor.
Any dry, hard cheese will work for this recipe. Grana padano or, of course, parmesan are ideal. Although ordinary cheddar is a bit too moist, that cracked, dried-up lump of cheddar that’s been lurking in the back of the fridge will do fine.
Prep time: 10 minutes
INGREDIENTS
10-20g carrot leaves (weighed after removing the stems)
½ small garlic clove
20g cashew nuts
20g dry hard cheese, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
METHOD


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Carrot leaf soup with carrot jewels recipe

Carrot stems are good for soup , as you can sieve out the tough bits .
I ’ ve tried making it with a mix of roots and tops , but it turned a depressing muddy brown colour , as any child who ’ s mixed orange and green paints could have warned me .
This is a much better plan , a delicate creamy herb-green soup with little cubes of sweet amber carrot dotted through it .
If you have used the leaves of a bunch of carrots for pesto , you can make this with just the stems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( or a stem of celery ) , chopped • Leaves and stems from a big bunch of carrots • Heat the oil in a medium-sized pan and add the spring onions and celery leaves , with a pinch of salt .
Cook for a minute then stir in the potato .
• Wash and chop the carrot leaves and stems and add those too .
Cook , stirring , for five minutes then add the stock .
Simmer for 20 minutes until tender .
Blend with a hand blender .
When it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through a sieve ( this is important : the soup will be gritty otherwise ) .
Return to the pan and season , adding water if it is too thick .
• Heat the butter ( or oil ) in a pan and add the carrot dice .
Cook , covered , for five minutes or so , shaking the pan often , until the carrot is tender .
Serve the soup with the carrot cubes spooned over .

Carrot stems are good for soup, as you can sieve out the tough bits. I’ve tried making it with a mix of roots and tops, but it turned a depressing muddy brown colour, as any child who’s mixed orange and green paints could have warned me.
This is a much better plan, a delicate creamy herb-green soup with little cubes of sweet amber carrot dotted through it. If you have used the leaves of a bunch of carrots for pesto, you can make this with just the stems.
Prep time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes
SERVES
Two as a lunch
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp olive oil
Green parts of a bunch of spring onions, chopped
A handful of celery leaves (or a stem of celery), chopped
1 small potato, chopped
Leaves and stems from a big bunch of carrots
500ml vegetable stock
1 tbsp butter (or olive oil)
1 carrot, cut into 1cm dice
METHOD


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--The 10 best new technologies coming out of CES 2020, including robots and wearable devices

It is seen as the tech industry event of the year , and a window into the inventions that will @ @ @ @ @ years ahead .
But the start of the CES conference in Las Vegas was dominated @ @ @ @ @ toilet paper , a row over the appearance of Donald Trump ’ s daughter Ivanka @ @ @ @ @ reported attendee numbers .
The Consumer Technology Association ( CTA ) , the trade body @ @ @ @ @ said it expected more than 170,000 attendees and 4,400 exhibitors , a decline from the @ @ @ @ @ quoted last year .

It is seen as the tech industry event of the year, and a window into the inventions that will change our lives in the years ahead.
But the start of the CES conference in Las Vegas was dominated by a robot that ferries toilet paper, a row over the appearance of Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka, and a decline in reported attendee numbers.
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the trade body that runs the show, said it expected more than 170,000 attendees and 4,400 exhibitors, a decline from the 180,000 and 4,500 it had quoted last year.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--CES 2020: The weirdest gadgets from the world’s biggest tech show

While the headliners at the world ’ s largest technology expo tend to be mobile phones , smart home gadgetry @ @ @ @ @ wouldn ’ t be CES without the bewildering parade of weird and wonderful gadgets .
@ @ @ @ @ a strong start for the bizarre , with wacky robots , spinning tellies and even @ @ @ @ @ the internet .
Many of these may never see the public light of day , @ @ @ @ @ of the weirdest gadgets at CES 2020 .

LuluPet’s AI Smart Cat Litter Box, which is an honouree in CES 2020’s innovation award, is touted to have built-in stool and urine image recognition and "excretory behavioral algorithms". Which is not a phrase you might have ever expected to read.
The headless kitten
And it seems, this year, CES just can't get enough of kittens. Yukai Engineering unveiled the prototype for its headless robotic kitten at the event, something which may sound unbelievably creepy but, oddly enough, will be marketed to seniors in nursing homes. It comes a few years after a larger version was released, but, according to the company, people wanted to be able to take their devices out and about. The Petit Qoobo is small enough to fit in a bag.
What's the appeal, you may ask? Apparently its "comforting communication warms your heart the way animals do".
Samsung rotating TV
Televisions are not usually the strangest thing to see on the CES floor, but how about one that can automatically spin around to display vertically?
Samsung’s Sero TV is already available in Korea, designed to allow viewers to cast vertical video such as Instagram and TikTok from their phones to the biggest screen in the house. In theory, a telly that’s moving with the times… but hopefully one that isn’t going to fall off.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Chicken with coriander root and coriander stem dipping sauce recipe

If you buy coriander from Asian supermarkets , it will often come with the skinny white root attached .
The stems , too , are packed with flavour .
They are a bit too tough to eat whole , so chop them finely , or add them to curry pastes .
To prepare coriander root , cut the stems off about 1cm above the root .
Soak the root in cold water , and give it a good scrape to get rid of any grit .
Lots of recipes need more than one coriander root , so save any spares @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to three months .
Juicy and fragrant , this dish is great cooked on the barbecue too , once the weather improves .
• Put the coriander root , garlic and turmeric in a pestle and mortar with a fat pinch of salt , and bash to a paste .
Stir in the fish sauce and vegetable oil .
• Cut slashes in the chicken joints to help the flavour permeate .
Rub over the paste .
Cover and leave in the fridge to marinate for two to four hours .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Cook the chicken and the spring onions on a ridged griddle pan until nicely striped , then transfer the chicken to a baking dish in the oven for another 20 minutes or so , until cooked through .
• Mix together the dipping sauce ingredients and serve alongside the chicken and spring onions .

If you buy coriander from Asian supermarkets, it will often come with the skinny white root attached. The stems, too, are packed with flavour. They are a bit too tough to eat whole, so chop them finely, or add them to curry pastes. To prepare coriander root, cut the stems off about 1cm above the root. Soak the root in cold water, and give it a good scrape to get rid of any grit. Lots of recipes need more than one coriander root, so save any spares, cleaned, in the freezer for up to three months.
Juicy and fragrant, this dish is great cooked on the barbecue too, once the weather improves.
Prep time: 10 minutes, plus marinating time | Cooking time: 30 minutes
SERVES
Two
INGREDIENTS
1 coriander root, chopped
1 fat garlic clove, chopped
A pinch of ground turmeric
2 tbsp Thai fish sauce
1 tsp vegetable oil
2 chicken leg joints
4 spring onions
For the dipping sauce
1 small garlic clove, finely chopped
1 mild red chilli, finely chopped
2 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp fish sauce
2 tsp brown sugar
3 tbsp finely chopped coriander stem
METHOD


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Businessman on 5,000-mile sailing trip missing after yacht found crashed off Egyptian coast

A Scottish businessman who set off on a 5,000-mile sailing trip has gone missing after his boat washed up off the coast of Egypt .
Colin Finnie lost contact with family and authorities towards the end of his voyage across the Indian Ocean from Australia .
The 67-year-old 's yacht Simba was reportedly found crashed on a reef but he was not on board .
The Scottish Sun has reported that grandfather Mr Finnie , from Helensburgh , Dunbartonshire , was planning to be home for Christmas when he vanished at sea .
The former hotelier was last in contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was just 300 miles away from his destination of Port Ghalib , Egypt .
A search was launched , which ended in the discovery of the empty 44ft vessel on the Marsa Alam reef in the Red Sea on December 13 .
Mr Finnie was found to have last signalled close to the Australian territory of Christmas Island on October 25 .
His worried wife took to social media to make an appeal , stating : `` He was in storms and low on fuel .
“ I have been in contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coastguard and the Egyptian authorities are actively looking for him .
“ I know it ’ s a long shot but I am trying everything .
”

A Scottish businessman who set off on a 5,000-mile sailing trip has gone missing after his boat washed up off the coast of Egypt.
Colin Finnie lost contact with family and authorities towards the end of his voyage across the Indian Ocean from Australia.
The 67-year-old's yacht Simba was reportedly found crashed on a reef but he was not on board. The Scottish Sun has reported that grandfather Mr Finnie, from Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire, was planning to be home for Christmas when he vanished at sea.
The former hotelier was last in contact with his family on December 7 when he was just 300 miles away from his destination of Port Ghalib, Egypt.
A search was launched, which ended in the discovery of the empty 44ft vessel on the Marsa Alam reef in the Red Sea on December 13.
Mr Finnie was found to have last signalled close to the Australian territory of Christmas Island on October 25.
His worried wife took to social media to make an appeal, stating: "He was in storms and low on fuel.
“I have been in contact with [the] Foreign Office and Coastguard and the Egyptian authorities are actively looking for him.
“I know it’s a long shot but I am trying everything.”


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Bafta nominations 2020: #BaftasSoWhite outcry after all-white acting nominees, and Joker leads with

Bafta nominations 2020: #BaftasSoWhite outcry after all-white acting nominees, and Joker leads with 11 nods

All-American films Once Upon A Time ... in Hollywood , Joker and The Irishman have triumphed in this year 's Bafta nominations , amid criticism that the 2020 British film awards have ignored diversity .
Joker , directed by Todd Phillips , is the frontrunner with 11 nominations , with The Irishman and Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood both received 10 .
The most-nominated British film was Sam Mendes ' war epic 1917 , which received nine nominations , including nods for Best Film , Outstanding British Film and Director .
However , Bafta was swift to receive criticism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leading Actor , Leading Actress , Supporting Actor , Supporting Actress ) acknowledged the efforts of people of colour .
Australian Margot Robbie was even nominated twice in the Supporting Actress category , for Bombshell , in which she plays Kayla Pospisil , and Once Upon A Time ... in Hollywood , in which she has a limited speaking role as the Sixties actress Sharon Tate .
On Twitter , the # BaftasSoWhite hashtag appeared as the nominations were being announced , with people pointing out the snubs suffered by actresses Jennifer Lopez @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , missed out for her critically acclaimed role in Hustlers , along with Awkwafina , the actress of Chinese heritage who picked up a Best Actress Golden Globe on Sunday , who was recognised in the publicly voted Rising Star category , and Lupita Nyong ' o , who starred in Us .

All-American films Once Upon A Time... in Hollywood, Joker and The Irishman have triumphed in this year's Bafta nominations, amid criticism that the 2020 British film awards have ignored diversity.
Joker, directed by Todd Phillips, is the frontrunner with 11 nominations, with The Irishman and Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood both received 10. The most-nominated British film was Sam Mendes' war epic 1917, which received nine nominations, including nods for Best Film, Outstanding British Film and Director.
However, Bafta was swift to receive criticism none of the four acting categories (Leading Actor, Leading Actress, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress) acknowledged the efforts of people of colour. Australian Margot Robbie was even nominated twice in the Supporting Actress category, for Bombshell, in which she plays Kayla Pospisil, and Once Upon A Time... in Hollywood, in which she has a limited speaking role as the Sixties actress Sharon Tate.
On Twitter, the #BaftasSoWhite hashtag appeared as the nominations were being announced, with people pointing out the snubs suffered by actresses Jennifer Lopez, who is of Puerto Rican heritage, missed out for her critically acclaimed role in Hustlers, along with Awkwafina, the actress of Chinese heritage who picked up a Best Actress Golden Globe on Sunday, who was recognised in the publicly voted Rising Star category, and Lupita Nyong'o, who starred in Us.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--The best all-mountain skis for this winter

All-mountain skis are designed to deal competently with snow conditions all over the mountain .
In practice , this requires @ @ @ @ @ about 80 to 90mm – narrow enough to provide decent grip on hard snow , @ @ @ @ @ powder .
If you can take just one pair of skis on a trip , @ @ @ @ @ a bit of everything , these are definitely the skis for you .
Confused by @ @ @ @ @ out our jargon buster and learn what the specialist terms in our ski reviews mean @

The standard Speed Zone we tested is aimed mainly at piste skiing but still has a drifty, freeride feel. Dynastar has softened the flex at the tip and tail to make it easier to turn, and this softer flex and slight tip rocker helps in variable snow off piste. A great ski for intermediate to advanced skiers wanting easy handling in short to medium turns on piste and some fun off the sides. If you ski hard and fast then opt for the stiffer Pro version.
+ Playful and fun in variable snow, easy to handle at lower speeds.
- Grip suffers when skiing fast on hard snow.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Why you should be cooking with algae, the superfood that could feed the world

What 's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of algae ?
Is it stagnant water by a busy road , or a long-abandoned swimming pool , with a rather macabre green film floating on top ?
If you 're a keen follower of the food scene , you 'll have instead noticed it popping up more and more in restaurants over the past few years .
It is lauded by chefs for its intense flavour – a strong umami kick – and its healthy properties .
And it may have further benefits .
According to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , two micro-algaes that form on top of water , could provide a sustainable form of nutrition in the future .
Crucially , they can be grown in urban environments and do n't need plenty of agricultural land .
With the challenge of a changing climate , this could form a vital source of food .
The algae have already infiltrated our supermarkets .
Spirulina is increasingly used as a food additive for its nutritional advantages .
Full of protein , B vitamins , and minerals such as iron , it can now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ egg substitutes , and protein powders .
Some experts , however , warn that some of its nutrients are not bio-available , making it harder for our bodies to absorb them .

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of algae? Is it stagnant water by a busy road, or a long-abandoned swimming pool, with a rather macabre green film floating on top?
If you're a keen follower of the food scene, you'll have instead noticed it popping up more and more in restaurants over the past few years. It is lauded by chefs for its intense flavour – a strong umami kick – and its healthy properties.
And it may have further benefits. According to a Cambridge University professor, spirulina and chlorella, two micro-algaes that form on top of water, could provide a sustainable form of nutrition in the future. Crucially, they can be grown in urban environments and don't need plenty of agricultural land. With the challenge of a changing climate, this could form a vital source of food.
The algae have already infiltrated our supermarkets. Spirulina is increasingly used as a food additive for its nutritional advantages. Full of protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron, it can now be found in ice cream, vegan egg substitutes, and protein powders. Some experts, however, warn that some of its nutrients are not bio-available, making it harder for our bodies to absorb them.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--Concerns grow over European Tour events after Iran threat to 'unleash Hezbollah' across the Gulf

Concerns are growing over the staging of European Tour ’ s “ Desert Swing ” over the next three weeks after Iran threatened to “ unleash Hezbollah ” across the Gulf as military tensions build .
According to NBC News , the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps actually mentioned the United Arab Emirates in its ultimatum on Tuesday night in the wake of missile strikes on a US base in western Iraq .
The Abu Dhabi Golf Championship is due to take place next week , leading on to the Dubai Desert Classic and then the Saudi Arabia International .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retaliation for the two waves of attacks they launched , their third wave will destroy Dubai and Haifa , ” the US network reported .
“ To attack more bases in Iraq .
To unleash Hezbollah .
To unleash shiite militias in Iraq .
To attack Israel and Dubai .
Making it clear it is ready for a [ widespread ] campaign if this escalates further with a US response.
” The Tour was confident at the start of the week that its schedule would not be affected by the conflict , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entered having given any indication that they were considering withdrawing .
World No 1 Brooks Koepka is due to play in Abu Dhabi , alongside several US Ryder Cup colleagues .

Fears are growing of a mass withdrawal of the top US professionals from the European Tour’s forthcoming “Desert Swing” because of the threat of reprisals in the Gulf in the wake of heightened military tensions between America and Iran.
World No 1 Brooks Koepka is due to play in Abu Dhabi next week, alongside countryman Patrick Cantlay and the Tour was confident at the start of the week that the impressive entry list - also featuring Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowry and Sergio Garcia - would be unaffected by the escalating military tensions.
However, Bryson DeChambeau has since revealed his doubts of appearing at the $7million Rolex Series event. "I seriously may not be going to Abu Dhabi," DeChambeau, the world No 15, said on a social media stream. "All this talk, no American is able to go over to that area. Insane, brother. Protecting the country, though, I love it. Gotta love it.”
DeChambeau is also down to play in the Dubai Desert Classic the following week and Koepka will return the next week to appear at the Saudi International, where he will be joined by Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Tony Finau and Patrick Reed.
These US Ryder Cuppers have all been lured to the Middle East by millions of dollars in appearance fees as the European Tour makes a fair fist of proving it can, in certain parts of the year, still be an attractive alternative to the PGA Tour, despite Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy staying away to launch their Masters preparations in America.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--48 hours in . . . Ibiza, an insider guide to the hedonistic (yet heavenly) island

Ibiza has exerted a potent pull on the world ’ s wandering spirits for centuries .
The Carthaginians were the @ @ @ @ @ to its shores , and in the ensuing years the Moors , the Romans and @ @ @ @ @ turns to stake their claim on this magnificent island in the Med .
Such checkered @ @ @ @ @ the mesmerising melting pot of influences visible on Ibiza today , not to mention its @ @ @ @ @ everyman .
It was , and remains , entirely without discrimination – a place for @ @ @ @ @ dream .
Consequently , it ’ s been home to everyone over the years , @ @ @ @ @ hippies on the hunt for limitless liberty – and while these days it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ dazzling sunsets and thundering nightlife scene , that quintessential bohemian spirit lingers .
Whether on @ @ @ @ @ , or a yoga mat , few are able to resist its unmistakable magic .

Ibiza has exerted a potent pull on the world’s wandering spirits for centuries. The Carthaginians were the first settlers to be drawn to its shores, and in the ensuing years the Moors, the Romans and even pilfering pirates all took turns to stake their claim on this magnificent island in the Med.
Such checkered heritage no doubt contributes to the mesmerising melting pot of influences visible on Ibiza today, not to mention its reputation as a cradle for everyman. It was, and remains, entirely without discrimination – a place for free thinkers to doze and dream.
Consequently, it’s been home to everyone over the years, from creatives fleeing suppression to hippies on the hunt for limitless liberty – and while these days it’s probably most famous for its dazzling sunsets and thundering nightlife scene, that quintessential bohemian spirit lingers. Whether on a beach, a dancefloor, or a yoga mat, few are able to resist its unmistakable magic.
Explore our interactive map below for all the local highlights, and scroll down for our suggested day-by-day summary of the best things to see and do.
For further Ibiza inspiration, see our guides to the island's best hotels, restaurants, bars, nightlife, beaches and things to do.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--48 hours in . . . Majorca, an insider guide to the beauty of the Balearics

An island of infinite variety , culture and charm With its rugged coastline , sandy beaches and clear sapphire waters @ @ @ @ @ the jewels of the Mediterranean .
Away from the coastline 's sheltered coves and dreamy @ @ @ @ @ the agricultural heartland and the Tramuntana mountains – a Unesco World Heritage site blossoming with @ @ @ @ @ trees .
The capital , Palma , boasts cultural attractions and chic boutiques aplenty – @ @ @ @ @ villages offer charm and authenticity .
Surprisingly , Majorca wasn ’ t always such an @ @ @ @ @ history that has witnessed countless assaults from the Carthaginians , Romans , Vandals and Moors @ @ @ @ @ that rich combination of cultures has created the cosmopolitan , welcoming , and open society @ @ @ @ @ a mild climate for most of the year , Majorca is ideal for relaxing beach @ @ @ @ @ and gastronomic getaways .

With its rugged coastline, sandy beaches and clear sapphire waters, Majorca is one of the jewels of the Mediterranean. Away from the coastline's sheltered coves and dreamy sunsets, you'll find the agricultural heartland and the Tramuntana mountains – a Unesco World Heritage site blossoming with orange, lemon and almond trees.
The capital, Palma, boasts cultural attractions and chic boutiques aplenty – while the coastal and inland villages offer charm and authenticity. Surprisingly, Majorca wasn’t always such an idyll, with a tempestuous history that has witnessed countless assaults from the Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals and Moors. All the same, that rich combination of cultures has created the cosmopolitan, welcoming, and open society of islanders today.
Enjoying a mild climate for most of the year, Majorca is ideal for relaxing beach holidays, outdoor sports, and gastronomic getaways.
Explore our interactive map below for all the local highlights, and scroll down for our suggested day-by-day summary of the best things to see and do. For further Majorca inspiration, see our guides to the island's best hotels, restaurants, beaches, nightlife and things to do.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--48 hours in . . . Orlando, an insider guide to the home of the theme park (but also so much more)

Visit Orlando Tourist Board : The Official Visitor Center – and there is only one , despite various ticket offices proclaiming themselves as ‘ official ’ – is at 8102 International Drive ( 00 1 407 363 5872 ; visitorlando.com ) .
Telephone code : Orlando numbers are usually area code 407 , but a few can be 321 .
Calling from the UK , dial 001 then 407 or 321 followed by the seven-digit number .
Within Orlando , just dial the three-digit area code followed by the seven-digit number Flight time : London to Orlando is approximately 9.5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8.5 hours .
• Always carry your passport and driver ’ s license with you when driving in America , in case you get stopped by police .
• You can turn right at a red traffic light ( provided you come to a complete stop first , there is no oncoming traffic and no contradictory sign saying “ no turn on red ” ) .
• As in most American cities , you must park in the direction of the traffic on the correct side of the road , otherwise you will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on raised kerbs .

Most people who visit ‘Orlando’ never truly see it. They arrive at Orlando International Airport and head straight for the theme parks. The city actually lies 15 miles north-east and often goes unnoticed in the rush for Disney and co – which is a major oversight, as it’s home to some of Florida’s most original experiences.
True, Orlando barely figured in the state’s top cities before the 1971 opening of Walt Disney World and the tourism-fuelled boom it generated. But a funny thing happened through the 1990s and 2000s – the city reasserted its character, diversity and creativity. Hip districts emerged as thousands moved downtown, and a thriving young, urban culture mushroomed to create craft breweries, cutting-edge restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Now, if you don’t make an effort to see The City Beautiful, you’re missing the best part of Orlando: Lake Eola, Winter Park, Mills 50 and Ivanhoe Village are among the many compelling districts and suburbs.
For further inspiration for the perfect Orlando holiday, see our guides to the city's best hotels, restaurants, nightlife and things to do.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--48 hours in . . . New Orleans, an insider guide to the Big Easy

• The best restaurants in New Orleans Carnaval Lounge ( 2227 St Claude Avenue ; 00 1 504 265 8855 @ @ @ @ @ on the St Claude entertainment corridor , replacing the old Siberia Lounge .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ has a mix of live Latin music , burlesque , comedy and drag , along @ @ @ @ @ Brazilian kitchen offering street food to go with your caipirinha .
• The best bars @ @ @ @ @ landscape has been changed by the opening of Maison de la Luz ( 546 Carondalet @ @ @ @ @ 814 7720 ) .
A high-end boutique offering from the Ace Hotel Group , the @ @ @ @ @ like the grand townhouse of a world traveller , with eclectic design details and a @ @ @ @ @ doorways .
• The best hotels in New Orleans

Make an early start to take in the main halls of the National World War II Museum, a world-class facility that portrays the enormity of the events that took place, as well as sharing touching and poignant personal stories. As you enter, be sure to book a ticket for the cinematic presentation Beyond All Boundaries, a visually splendid 4-D movie that explores America’s role in the conflict and the theatrical audio-visual exhibit, Expressions of America..
There are several small art galleries as you leave the museum and wander around the Warehouse District – stop in at a few, such as the Arthur Roger Gallery and Octavia Art Gallery, as you head for lunch at Cochon. Chef Donald Link’s exploration of meat preparation is something to behold (there are some equally tasty vegetarian options as well). The pork cheek and andouille jamablaya really is a glorious celebration of local flavours. Find more of the best restaurants for lunch in New Orleans in our guide.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--48 hours in. . . Palma, an insider guide to Majorca's cosmopolitan capital

Anna Nicholas , our resident expert , offers her top tips on the hottest things to do and places to @ @ @ @ @ this season .
Evoking the spirit of the beat generation , new American-style Beatnik ( @ @ @ @ @ Montenegro 21 ; 00 34 971 425 450 ) is garnering admirers with its cool @ @ @ @ @ interiors , and eclectic menu of scrumptious lobster rolls , tempura prawns , salads and @ @ @ @ @ an exclusive VIP rooftop sunset dinner with panoramic views to Palma old town .

With a dramatic and turbulent history harking back to the Bronze Age, Palma has had its fair share of invasions – from the Romans and Vandals to the Moors and Christians. So it’s hardly surprising that this perky, perfectly formed city has such a welcoming and grown-up attitude to international visitors.
With the glistening Mediterranean Sea at its feet, this effortlessly accessible capital offers a delicious melting pot of cultures and historic influences. Whether in the cobbled streets of the atmospheric old town, or in the heart of the grand plaças, impressive monuments, museums, galleries and churches of Gothic splendour abound. Edgy districts happily rub shoulders with more traditional and exclusive neighbourhoods, while a vibrant food and shopping scene weaves its magic across the city. So much to do, so little time? Head for a seafront café, breathe the air, relax and enjoy that first sip of ruby red Majorcan wine.
For further inspiration, view our guides to the city's best hotels, restaurants, nightlife and things to do.


thetelegraph--2020-01-08--48 hours in . . . Beijing, an insider guide to China's fascinating imperial capital

There ’ s even more to see in historic Jingshan Park with the 2019 opening of the newly restored Shouhuang @ @ @ @ @ as a place for emperors to honour their ancestors , it was repurposed in the @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Palace .
It 's free entry , but you ’ ll need your @ @ @ @ @ things to do in Beijing The Orchid Hotel ( 65 Baochao Hutong ; 00 86 @ @ @ @ @ added yet another jewel to its crown with the winter 2019 opening of Bakeshop .
@ @ @ @ @ sandwiches , cinnamon rolls , cookies and locally-roasted coffee , it ’ s a lovely @ @ @ @ @ the surrounding maze of hutong alleys .
• The best restaurants in Beijing

Day one
MORNING
Beijing breakfasts are best eaten on the hoof: fluffy, pork-filled baozi (steamed buns) and jianbing, the egg crêpe treat trending in London and New York, are sold from little booths and even bicycle carts on Beijing streets.
Suitably sated, seek out Jingshan Park, a former Imperial garden at the heart of the capital. This unnatural mound is a post-dawn playground for local retirees, who blow away the cobwebs with massed ballroom dancing, tai chi, and revolutionary jam sessions – it's all delightfully unselfconscious. Drag yourself away (if you can) to climb the hill for the million-yuan view: The Forbidden City (Xi Chang’an Jie; 00 86 10 8500 7421), a scarlet sea of palaces, pavilions and halls that astonishes in its scale and feng shui symmetry.
Exit via the south gate and follow the Forbidden City's moat east to its corner tower. A short stroll north of here leads to TRB Hutong (23 Shatan Beijie; 00 86 10 8400 2232), a modern European restaurant set within the vestiges of a 400-year old Buddhist temple. Lunch menus are extremely good value and the wine list is encyclopaedic.