Caribbean Christmas: A Celebration of Sun, Song and Spice

When most of us think of Christmas, we picture frosty windows, mulled wine, and roaring fires, but across the Caribbean, Christmas is an explosion of sunshine, soca, and sensational food. 

With each island adding its own distinct flair, Caribbean Christmas traditions combine European influences with local ingredients, rhythms, and culture, creating one of the most vibrant festive seasons in the world.

A Joyful Season of Music and Community

In the Caribbean, Christmas is as much about togetherness and celebration as it is about faith. The season kicks off in early December with house cleaning and decorating, often using bright lights, tropical flowers, and handmade ornaments.

Churches fill with carol services and midnight masses, while streets come alive with parang in Trinidad and Tobago, a lively form of folk music with Spanish roots, featuring guitars, maracas, and cuatro.

Over in Jamaica, Christmas Day brings the sound of reggae and dancehall, and families gather for big parties where the music rarely stops. Meanwhile, in the Bahamas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day are dominated by Junkanoo, a parade filled with colourful costumes, whistles, and drums — a joyous expression of cultural pride.

aribbean Christmas Feasts

Food takes centre stage during the Caribbean festive season. Every island boasts its own signature dishes, but one thing unites them all — the tables are overflowing with flavour.

Here are a few Christmas favourites from across the islands:

Jamaica

Curried Goat or Roast Chicken – The main course is often served with rice and peas, fried plantain, and callaloo.

Christmas Ham – Glazed with pineapple or brown sugar and cloves for a rich, smoky sweetness.

Gizzada and Sweet Potato Pudding – Traditional desserts that pair perfectly with a glass of sorrel.

Trinidad and Tobago

Pastelles – Cornmeal pies filled with seasoned meat, olives, and capers, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Ham and Turkey with Homemade Bread – Served with plenty of pepper sauce for heat.

Black Cake – A dense, boozy fruit cake soaked in rum and cherry brandy for weeks before Christmas.

Barbados

Jug Jug – A dish inspired by Scottish haggis, made with pigeon peas, guinea corn flour, and salted meat.

Great Cake The Bajan version of the black cake, filled with local rum and dried fruits.

Puerto Rico

Pernil – Slow-roasted pork shoulder marinated with garlic and adobo.

Arroz con Gandules –Rice with pigeon peas cooked in sofrito, a traditional Puerto Rican seasoning.

Coquito The island’s creamy coconut rum drink, similar to eggnog but distinctly tropical.

Festive Drinks with a Caribbean Twist

A Caribbean Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a festive tipple or two. Each island has its signature drink, and rum, of course, is never far away.

Sorrel Drink Made from hibiscus petals steeped with ginger, cloves, and sugar, then spiked with rum. It’s tangy, aromatic, and synonymous with Caribbean Christmases.

Ponche de Crème (Trinidad) – A rich, custard-like drink made from condensed milk, eggs, nutmeg, and rum.

Ginger Beer – Homemade and non-alcoholic, often enjoyed by all ages during the holidays.

Christmas Under the Sun

While many parts of the world bundle up against the cold, Caribbean families spend Christmas Day outdoors, enjoying picnics on the beach, cricket matches, or street parties. There’s an unmistakable spirit of joy, generosity, and gratitude that fills the air, often lasting well into January with Old Year’s Night celebrations.

For those dreaming of a warm, flavour-filled Christmas, the Caribbean offers a wonderful reminder that festive cheer comes in many forms — sometimes with palm trees instead of pine, and reggae instead of carols.

Recipe Cards: Bring a Taste of the Caribbean to Your Christmas Table

Sorrel Drink (Caribbean Christmas Punch)

Ingredients:

2 cups dried sorrel (hibiscus petals)

1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, sliced

5 cloves

1 cinnamon stick

6 cups boiling water

½–1 cup sugar (to taste)

½–1 cup dark rum (optional)

Method:

Place sorrel, ginger, cloves and cinnamon in a large heatproof bowl.

Pour boiling water over and leave to steep overnight.

Strain the mixture and sweeten to taste.

Add rum if desired, chill, and serve over ice.

Trinidad Black Cake

Ingredients:

500g mixed dried fruit (raisins, prunes, currants, cherries)

250ml dark rum + extra for soaking

250g butter

200g dark brown sugar

4 eggs

250g plain flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp mixed spice

½ tsp nutmeg

Method:

Soak the dried fruits in rum for at least a week (the longer, the better).

Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs one by one.

Stir in the blended fruit and remaining ingredients.

Pour into a lined cake tin and bake at 160°C (fan 140°C) for about 1½ hours.

Once cooled, brush with extra rum, wrap tightly, and store for up to a month to mature.

Coquito (Puerto Rican Coconut Eggnog)

Ingredients:

1 tin sweetened condensed milk

1 tin evaporated milk

1 tin coconut milk

½ cup white rum (or more to taste)

½ tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp vanilla extract

Method:

Blend all ingredients until smooth.

Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serve cold with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Step Into Dickens’ London: The Great Christmas Feast at The Lost Estate

Every Christmas season, London seems to reinvent itself, lights, markets, music, and magic fill every corner. 

Yet there’s one experience that rises above the rest for those who truly live Christmas all year long.

Welcome to The Great Christmas Feast at The Lost Estate, an immersive dining and theatre experience that transports you straight into the world of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.

If you’ve ever wished to dine by candlelight in Dickens’ own parlour, listening as he reads his most beloved story, this is your chance.

A Christmas Carol Comes to Life

The Great Christmas Feast takes place inside The Lost Estate, tucked away in West Kensington, a hidden London venue transformed into Dickens’ home on Christmas Eve, 1843.

As you step through the doors, you leave modern London behind. The smell of mulled wine, the glow of gaslight, and the sound of carols fill the air. Around you are flickering candles, handwritten manuscripts, and the bustle of Victorian servants.

And then, Dickens himself appears.

Played by a skilled actor, the author welcomes you as his guest and begins to tell his story, switching effortlessly between Scrooge, Marley, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future.

All the while, you dine and drink in his world, as live musicians weave haunting melodies around every scene. It’s beautiful, atmospheric, and utterly unforgettable.

The Feast: Victorian Flavours, Modern Magic

The experience includes a three-course feast, created by Executive Chef Ashley Clarke (whose previous work includes Gordon Ramsay Group and Temper Soho).

Each dish is inspired by 19th-century Christmas dining, but with a luxurious modern twist.

Starter: Think rich ham hock terrine or a beautifully balanced vegetarian option, served with pickled winter vegetables and crusty sourdough.

Main: A stunning confit Gressingham duck leg with roast potatoes, mulled cabbage, and artichoke purée — or a hearty vegetarian mushroom pithivier.

Dessert: A festive showstopper — Twelfth Night cake with Christmas pudding ice cream or mulled-berry coulis.

And of course, the drinks are pure theatre. The bar serves Victorian-inspired cocktails such as the “Smoking Bishop” (a Dickensian favourite), a warm, spiced, smoky creation that’s Christmas in a glass.

A Night of Story, Spirit, and Splendour

Every element of The Great Christmas Feast is designed to draw you deeper into Dickens’ world. The set changes, the lighting shifts with each ghostly visitation, and the music swells to match the story’s emotion.

Guests find themselves laughing, gasping, and even wiping away the odd tear as Scrooge finds redemption, all while raising a glass of something delicious to the spirit of Christmas.

The production runs for around four hours, and each year it sells out quickly — so early booking is essential.

When and Where

📍 The Lost Estate, 7–9 Beaumont Avenue, West Kensington, London W14 9LP

A short walk from West Kensington or Earl’s Court stations

🎄 2025 Season: 14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026

Tickets: From around £105 for previews to £249 for VIP dining experiences

Book now at christmasfeast.thelostestate.com

Why It’s a Must for Christmas Lovers

For readers of That’s Christmas 365, this event isn’t just another festive night out, it’s a full-scale celebration of Christmas tradition, nostalgia, and theatre.

It captures the spirit of generosity and transformation that defines the season.

It’s beautifully immersive, perfect for those who crave that old-fashioned Christmas feeling.

And it blends storytelling, dining, and music into a once-in-a-lifetime festive memory.

If you’re the sort who keeps Christmas in your heart all year round (and we suspect you are), then this is the event to put on your festive wish list.

Final Dickensian Thoughts

The Great Christmas Feast at The Lost Estate isn’t simply a night out — it’s an act of time travel.

For one evening, you dine with Dickens himself, feel the chill of Marley’s ghost, and watch Scrooge’s heart thaw beside your own. You leave not just well-fed, but full of Christmas spirit, the kind that lasts long after the final bow.

This Christmas, dine in Dickens’ world — and rediscover the joy, warmth, and wonder of the season.

The Best Vegan Alternatives to Stilton Cheese for Christmas

Following on from our feature on the best Stilton cheeses for Christmas, That's Christmas 365 is now looking at the best vegan alternatives to Stilton cheese for your vegan Christmas cheeseboard. 

For many, Christmas simply wouldn’t be complete without a wedge of creamy, crumbly Stilton on the cheeseboard. 

Traditionally paired with port or a crisp glass of dessert wine, it’s a festive staple that brings rich flavour and indulgence to the table. 

But what if you or your guests are vegan—or simply trying to cut down on dairy? The good news is that there are now some truly impressive vegan alternatives to Stilton available in the UK that deliver all the taste without the cow’s milk.

Here’s a look at some of the best options for a dairy-free Christmas cheeseboard.

1. Ilchester Vegan Blue

Made by the same team behind classic British cheeses, Ilchester’s Vegan Blue is one of the most authentic-tasting plant-based Stilton alternatives you’ll find. It’s made with coconut oil and vegan cultures, and it even has that distinctive blue-veined appearance. 

The texture is firm yet creamy, perfect for slicing or crumbling over festive salads. It’s widely available at major supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s, making it an easy choice for your Christmas shop.

2. Honestly Tasty “Blue”

Honestly Tasty’s Blue is something of a vegan cult favourite—and for good reason. Made using a combination of cashews, live cultures and Penicillium Roqueforti (the same mould used in traditional blue cheese), it has a delicious tang and depth of flavour. 

This one’s best enjoyed at room temperature so its creamy, rich texture really shines. It’s ideal for spreading on crackers or pairing with slices of pear and walnuts. Available online and through select independent delis.

3. Palace Culture “Blue Veganoma”

Handcrafted in London, Palace Culture’s Blue Veganoma is an artisanal option made from organic cashews and aged for several weeks to develop a punchy, complex flavour. 

It’s not a direct Stilton clone, but its characterful, umami-rich notes make it a worthy replacement on any festive cheeseboard. Pair it with oatcakes and a drizzle of vegan honey or chutney for a refined Christmas treat.

4. Sheese Blue Style

From Scotland’s long-standing vegan brand Bute Island Foods, Sheese Blue Style is a reliable supermarket find that’s both affordable and tasty. 

It’s coconut-based and slightly milder than traditional Stilton, but still delivers a lovely blue flavour that works beautifully in sauces or on crackers. It’s also free from palm oil, which will please environmentally conscious hosts.

5. La Fauxmagerie “Brixton Blue”

If you’re going all-out for a gourmet Christmas, La Fauxmagerie’s Brixton Blue deserves a spot on your table. This cashew-based cheese is aged for several weeks to develop its distinctive blue veins and robust, tangy taste. 

It’s firm enough to cut cleanly, making it perfect for an elegant cheeseboard presentation. Available via La Fauxmagerie’s website or from select stockists around the UK.

How to Enjoy Vegan “Stilton” at Christmas

Vegan blue cheeses pair wonderfully with festive accompaniments. Try serving them with:

Chutneys – especially fig, plum or caramelised onion varieties.

Fruits – fresh pear slices, dried apricots, or grapes balance the saltiness beautifully.

Crackers & bread – oatcakes, sourdough or walnut bread all work a treat.

Drinks – port, dessert wine or even a rich stout complement vegan blue cheeses wonderfully.

Final Vegan Cheese Thoughts

Going vegan (or hosting vegan guests) doesn’t mean sacrificing your favourite festive flavours. With these dairy-free Stilton alternatives, you can create a Christmas cheeseboard that’s every bit as indulgent and delicious as the traditional version—just a little kinder to animals and the planet.

The Best Stilton Cheeses for Christmas 2025

Few things say “Christmas in Britain” quite like a wedge of rich, crumbly Stilton. 

Whether you enjoy it after dinner with a glass of port, crumbled into a winter salad, or melted into a luxurious sauce for your festive beef or turkey, this blue-veined marvel is the king of Christmas cheeses. 

But not all Stiltons are created equal — so here’s a guide to the very best to grace your cheeseboard this festive season.

Colston Bassett Dairy Blue Stilton

If there’s a gold standard for Stilton, this is it. Handmade in Nottinghamshire using traditional rennet and milk from local farms, Colston Bassett’s Stilton is creamy, mellow, and beautifully balanced — not too salty, not too sharp. 

The texture is buttery rather than crumbly, and the flavour develops wonderfully as it warms.

Perfect with: a glass of vintage port or a drizzle of honey on oatcakes.

Stockists: Waitrose, Neal’s Yard Dairy, and The Fine Cheese Co.

Typical price: around £20–£25 per kilo.

Cropwell Bishop Blue Stilton

Another Nottinghamshire legend, Cropwell Bishop is a family-run creamery producing Stilton with a slightly more robust, tangy character than Colston Bassett. It’s hand-ladled, which gives it a softer, open texture and a complex flavour that pairs wonderfully with fruit chutneys and pears.

Perfect with: figs, walnuts, or a spiced pear chutney.

Stockists: Ocado, Marks & Spencer, and direct from Cropwell Bishop.

Typical price: about £18–£23 per kilo.

Long Clawson Blue Stilton

Produced since 1911 in Leicestershire, Long Clawson is a consistent crowd-pleaser. Its flavour is a little saltier and bolder than some of its counterparts, making it a fine choice for cooking — think Stilton soup, blue cheese sauces, or festive canapés.

Perfect with: crusty bread and a splash of port reduction.

Stockists: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and most major supermarkets.

Typical price: £16–£20 per kilo.

Hartington Creamery Blue Stilton

Derbyshire’s only Stilton producer, Hartington Creamery revives a centuries-old local tradition. Their Stilton has a firmer body and a slightly nutty aftertaste, offering something a bit different for those who prefer less creaminess and more structure.

Perfect with: a slice of Christmas fruit cake or a tot of sherry.

Stockists: farm shops and specialist cheesemongers.

Typical price: around £22 per kilo.

Waitrose No.1 Cropwell Bishop Organic Blue Stilton

If you’d prefer something readily available yet exceptional, this collaboration between Waitrose and Cropwell Bishop is superb. Certified organic and carefully matured, it’s smooth and creamy with subtle earthy notes.

Perfect with: crackers, apple slices, or as part of a festive cheeseboard.

Stockists: exclusively at Waitrose.

Typical price: £22–£26 per kilo.

Serving Tips for Christmas Stilton

Bring it to room temperature: Allow the cheese to rest for at least an hour before serving to bring out its full flavour.

Pair it properly: Port is traditional, but try a dessert wine, barleywine, or even a hoppy IPA for a modern twist.

Store it right: Wrap it loosely in wax paper and keep it in the salad drawer of your fridge; it’ll continue to mature gently.

The Final Word

Stilton isn’t just a cheese — it’s a Christmas ritual. From the creamy Colston Bassett to the punchy Long Clawson, each has its own character and charm. So, when you’re planning your festive cheeseboard this year, make sure a wedge of proper Stilton takes pride of place.

Because no British Christmas is truly complete without it.

Incidentally, I love the lesser known White Stilton.

Crafting Your Own Christmas Cards: A Personal Touch That Money Can’t Buy

In a world of instant messages and e-cards, a handmade Christmas card feels like a rare and heartfelt treasure. 

Creating your own festive cards isn’t just a creative outlet — it’s a meaningful way to share love, personality, and holiday cheer. 

Whether you’re an experienced crafter or just fancy trying something new this season, crafting your own cards can quickly become one of your favourite Christmas traditions.

Why Make Your Own Christmas Cards?

1. It’s personal and heartfelt

When you design and make a card yourself, it carries a piece of you with it. Every brushstroke, ribbon, and handwritten message shows care — and that’s something money simply can’t buy.

2. It’s sustainable and eco-friendly

DIY cards are perfect for a greener Christmas. Use recycled paper, scraps of wrapping paper, or old Christmas cards to reduce waste and give materials a second life. A few creative touches can turn yesterday’s packaging into tomorrow’s keepsake.

3. It’s relaxing and festive

Card-making is a wonderful way to slow down amid the seasonal rush. Pop on some Christmas music, light a candle, pour a mug of mulled wine or hot chocolate, and enjoy the moment. Crafting is a form of calm — and a lovely way to feel connected to the season.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

You don’t need to break the bank or raid a craft shop to begin. Here are the essentials for your DIY Christmas card kit:

Blank cards or thick card stock

Scissors or a craft knife

Glue stick or double-sided tape

Decorative paper, ribbon, and washi tape

Pens, markers, or metallic gel pens

Stickers, buttons, or sequins

A pinch of glitter (optional — but highly recommended!)

If you’re feeling ambitious, try using an embossing tool, lino stamps, or watercolours to elevate your designs.

10 Easy Handmade Christmas Card Ideas

1. Nature-Inspired Charm

Attach small pine sprigs, pressed holly leaves, or dried orange slices to your card for a rustic look that smells as good as it looks.

2. Minimalist Magic

A white card with a single hand-painted tree, a metallic star, or a reindeer silhouette is both stylish and modern.

3. Vintage Layers

Use old Christmas cards, lace trim, and kraft paper for a nostalgic, homely feel.

4. Family Photo Cards

Combine crafting and photography by framing a festive family snapshot with glittery paper or stamped snowflakes.

5. Button Baubles

Glue colourful buttons in the shape of Christmas baubles, then draw in the strings with a pen. Simple, cute, and effective!

6. Washi Tape Trees

Layer strips of washi tape into a triangular tree shape and top with a tiny star sticker.

7. Hand-Stamped Snowflakes

Use a potato stamp, eraser carving, or store-bought stamps to create a snowstorm effect.

8. Glittery Greetings

Add sparkle around your message with a fine dusting of glitter or a metallic pen border.

9. Paper Collage

Cut and layer paper scraps in wintry colours to build up a festive landscape.

10. Classic Calligraphy

Write your Christmas greetings in decorative lettering for an elegant, timeless look.

Top Tips for Success

Start early: Late November is the perfect time to begin crafting so you can post your cards in good time.

Batch your work: Make several cards at once using similar designs to save time.

Personalise your messages: Write something unique for each recipient — a memory, a joke, or a warm wish.

Keep leftovers: Ribbons, tags, and trimmings can be reused for next year’s creations.

Make It a Festive Event

Turn your crafting session into a cosy Christmas card-making night. Invite friends or family over, serve mince pies, sip something festive, and enjoy the creative chaos. It’s a lovely way to share the spirit of the season — and you’ll all go home with something beautiful.

A Final Thought

In a season often filled with rushing and shopping lists, handmade Christmas cards remind us what the holidays are truly about — thoughtfulness, creativity, and connection. So, dust off your glue stick, cue the carols, and get crafting. This year, your cards might just be the most meaningful gifts you give.

Could Christmas Deliveries Be at Risk? What Alleged DPD Pay Cuts Mean

As the festive season approaches, shoppers expect their online orders to arrive in time. 

But recent reports suggest that Christmas deliveries could face disruption—thanks in part to new pay cuts imposed on DPD drivers. 

Here’s what’s going on, what drivers are saying, and what it might mean for parcels arriving in time for December 25th.

What’s being reported

According to recent press reports, DPD has reduced the rate paid for small-parcel deliveries by 65p, for around 10,000 self-employed franchise drivers. 

In addition, the same sources say DPD has scrapped a performance-based Christmas bonus of £500 that drivers could earn during the busy season. 

Drivers affected are saying that these changes could amount to thousands of pounds less per year in income. One claim in the report is that some drivers’ incomes could drop by around £6,000 annually, or about 15% of their take-home pay. 

There’s also concern that rural drivers, who tend to deliver more small parcels (versus large business deliveries), will be hit hardest by the cuts. 

DPD has reportedly defended the move by saying it reflects changes in the “parcel traffic profile” (i.e. more of some kinds of parcel than others) and that rates remain “among the best in the industry.” 

Why the cuts matter, especially over Christmas

These pay cuts come at a bad time. The weeks leading up to Christmas are peak period for parcel companies—more volume, tight deadlines, more pressure on logistics, drivers, and depots. Here are some of the consequences that could follow:

Driver morale & retention

If pay drops are sudden, large, or poorly communicated, some drivers may reduce their hours, refuse difficult routes, or even quit. That reduces capacity just when demand is peaking.

Risk of delays

Fewer drivers, or drivers who are less motivated (or stretched thin), could lead to slower parcel processing, later collections, more missed deliveries, or rescheduling.

Costs passed on

Retailers may face increased shipping delays. Consumers might experience longer delivery windows, or need to pay extra for “priority” services.

Pressure in rural & low-density areas

As noted, rural routes often mean smaller parcels, further distances, more costs. If pay per parcel is reduced, drivers covering these areas may find the financials don’t stack up, reducing service in those zones.

Possible industrial action or legal challenge

While there’s no widespread strike action reported yet in response to this specific issue, the history of delivery driver disputes suggests that such changes without sufficient consultation can lead to unrest or legal claims.

What we don’t know (yet)

The full scope: Is this pay cut confirmed by DPD across all depots, or only in certain areas? Is it only for small parcels, or will there be changes for other parcel types?

The exact financial impact: Claims of £6,000 loss are based on driver reports; what is DPD’s view?

How quickly the changes were communicated and whether there were any transitional safeguards for drivers.

Whether DPD has backup plans (e.g. extra staff, overtime) to ensure service levels through Christmas despite the cuts.

What should consumers do (to be safe)

If you're ordering items for Christmas, you might want to plan a little ahead given this uncertainty. Some practical tips:

Order early. Don’t leave key purchases until the last minute.

Use tracked or guaranteed delivery services where possible.

Check delivery cut-off dates from retailers — these are often pushed earlier than many expect.

Be aware of retailer policies in case of delays (refunds, exchanges etc.).

Support more local pickup or collection options if available.

What small businesses should do

Check to ensure the delivery companies you use will be able to deliver your goods to your customers in a timely manner. 

What drivers & unions may say

Drivers are understandably concerned. For many of them, the cost of fuel, maintenance, insurance, vehicle depreciation, and van hire are already high. A cut of 65p per parcel may erode margins significantly. Some drivers may:

refuse difficult or less profitable rounds

reduce working days/hours

demand renegotiation or improved terms

seek representation through unions or legal advice about employment status, rights, etc.

Broader implications

Gig economy & self-employed status: this is another instance raising questions about how self-employed franchise drivers are treated. There have been past controversies over fines, holiday & sick pay, driver status and protections. 

Competition & cost pressures: DPD operates in a competitive parcel delivery market. Pressure to keep prices low for retailers may be squeezing margins and pushing costs onto drivers.

Legal/regulatory oversight: If cuts push drivers below minimum wage levels (after costs), there may be legal scrutiny. Also, public perception and media attention may force companies to reconsider or adjust.

In summary

While the reports are still emerging, the timing of these wage reductions at DPD is particularly sensitive. With Christmas deliveries already under pressure globally, any reduction in driver pay that undermines capacity or morale could lead to late parcels, missed deliveries, and customer frustration. For many drivers, these cuts may not feel like just an adjustment—they could have real financial impact.

For consumers, the takeaway is to plan ahead. For retailers, logistics companies, and DPD itself, the challenge will be to manage the cost pressures while keeping delivery promises intact.

Leading Drinks Educator Releases Knowledge Box Series of Books About Beer, Cider and Wine in time for Christmas

Jane Peyton, founder of the School of Booze and former drinks educator of the year has released three new books to educate readers in fundamental knowledge about beer, cider, and wine. 

Beer Knowledge Box, Cider Knowledge Box, and Wine Knowledge Box contain essential foundational information to give readers a deep understanding of the subject. 

Whether the reader is keen to understand their favourite alcoholic drink, studying for an accreditation, or working in hospitality these are the books to help them learn what they need.

Jane Peyton said, “My intention for the books is to explain in simple and brief terms the essential facts and need-to-know about beer, cider, and wine so the reader can enjoy their drinks even more.   

They also make good gifts for the drinker in your life and are perfect stocking fillers for Christmas.”

All three titles are available in hardback, paperback, and e-book whilst audio books will be available soon.

https://www.school-of-booze.com/product-category/books/

Retail Price:  Hardback £10.99

Paperback £6.99

E-book = £3.99

Discount available for bulk purchases

The Benefits of Self-Care and Self-Gifting This Christmas Season

Christmas is usually a season of giving—lists, wrapping paper, bows, and rushing around trying to make everyone else’s festive dreams come true. 

But somewhere between the mince pies, the queues, and the glitter-strewn chaos, we often forget the most important person on our list: ourselves.

That’s where self-care and self-gifting come in. This Christmas, give yourself permission to enjoy the season too, not just survive it.

Why Self-Care Matters at Christmas

The holidays can be hectic: full calendars, family obligations, and more “must-dos” than days of the month. Without a little self-care, it’s all too easy to burn out before Boxing Day. Taking intentional moments for yourself means you’ll have the energy to actually savour the season.

Think cosy evenings with a festive film, a mug of hot chocolate by the twinkling tree, or a long winter walk to clear your head. These aren’t luxuries—they’re fuel.

The Joy of Self-Gifting

Self-gifting isn’t selfish—it’s a celebration of you. When you choose something special just for yourself, you remind yourself that you’re worthy of joy too. And honestly, who knows your taste better than you?

Here are some perfect Christmas self-gift ideas:

A Christmas hamper for one – Treat yourself to indulgent cheeses, artisan chutneys, luxury biscuits, or your favourite chocolates.

Festive pyjamas & slippers – For those long lazy days between Christmas and New Year.

A seasonal experience – Book a ticket to a Christmas concert, a festive afternoon tea, or even a spa day with a mulled wine twist.

Ornament keepsake – Buy a special bauble to mark this year and add it to your tree with pride.

Subscription gifts – Monthly book boxes, craft kits, or food deliveries can keep the Christmas spirit alive into the New Year.

Winter wellness treats – Think candles, bath oils, or even a weighted blanket to help you unwind after a busy day.

The Ripple Effect

Interestingly, when you practice self-care and self-gifting, you often become a better giver too. You’re less stressed, more thoughtful, and more present with others. Instead of being frazzled, you’re festive.

And isn’t that the true spirit of Christmas—joy, warmth, and a little sparkle for everyone, including you?

This Christmas, don’t just shop for others. Slip a gift under the tree with your own name on it. Whether it’s a small token or a grand gesture, you deserve to be celebrated just as much as anyone else this season.

12 Perfect Self-Gifts This Christmas 

Christmas is the season of giving—but that doesn’t mean you can’t slip a little something under the tree for yourself. Self-gifting isn’t selfish; it’s a wonderful way to practise self-care, remind yourself that you’re worth celebrating, and add a little extra sparkle to the season.

Here are 12 perfect self-gift ideas for this Christmas:

1. A Luxury Christmas Hamper

Choose one filled with your absolute favourites—cheese, chutneys, chocolate, or fizz. Make it all about you.

2. Festive Pyjamas and Slippers

Nothing says Christmas comfort like slipping into soft pyjamas with a seasonal print and cosy slippers on Christmas Eve.

3. A Weighted Blanket

Perfect for cold nights, festive films, or curling up with a good book by the twinkling lights.

4. A Christmas Concert or Panto Ticket

Gift yourself an experience—you’ll make memories as well as enjoy the festive spirit.

5. A Special Christmas Bauble

Pick out one keepsake ornament for your tree each year. In time, you’ll have a tree full of your own story.

6. A Festive Afternoon Tea

Treat yourself to a tea room or hotel that offers seasonal menus with mince pies, stollen, and spiced treats.

7. A Subscription Box

Books, crafts, wines, or world foods—a subscription box keeps the Christmas joy going long after the decorations come down.

8. Scented Candles and Bath Oils

Turn your home into a personal winter spa with Christmas-scented candles and bath treats.

9. A Cosy Christmas Jumper

Not the novelty kind (unless you want one!)—choose something stylish, warm, and festive that you’ll love wearing.

10. A DIY Self-Care Kit

Fill a basket with your favourite tea, snacks, a festive mug, face masks, and a soft blanket—perfect for quiet evenings.

11. A Winter Escape

Book a solo night or two away in a cottage, lodge, or boutique hotel for some post-holiday calm.

12. Something Completely Indulgent

That perfume, handbag, gadget, or luxury bottle of whisky you’ve had your eye on? Wrap it, pop it under the tree, and enjoy.

This year, don’t forget to put your own name on the gift list. Self-gifting is about honouring yourself, embracing joy, and making sure you enter the New Year rested, happy, and with a little sparkle still intact.

'Tis the season to be clean and tidy! Expert advice from Astonish for a stress-free Christmas clean both before and during hosting and After, too

As I write this, by coincidence, my wife is at this very moment using Astonish Carpet Cleaner with our carpet cleaning machine in our home office.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… and the messiest! 

Think cooking Christmas dinner for the whole family, that pre guest arrival panic clean and the aftermath of opening presents – the cleaning never stops, even at Christmas time.

It is of course the season of joy, so you don’t want to be spending more time than needed cleaning up (unless of course that’s what brings you joy, in which case – clean away!). 

For those that want to spend minimal time cleaning and more time enjoying the festive fun – Olivia Young, cleaning expert and Product Development Scientist at Astonish shares her top tips to ensure a stress-free Christmas clean, both before and during hosting.

Pre guest arrival cleaning tips

Don’t leave it until the last minute

The run up to Christmas can be chaotic enough, with last minute gift buying to food shopping and wrapping – there’s a lot on the to do list! Leaving cleaning and preparing your home to host to the last minute is likely to cause more stress, so try to plan and don’t leave it until the last moment. 

There are a few ways you can plan and make Christmas cleaning less stressful – the first is by creating a checklist or a schedule that breaks your tasks into smaller more manageable steps and means that everything doesn’t need doing all at once.

You should also try to have a bit of a declutter first, as let’s face it, it’s likely you’ll be surrounded by clutter to some degree over Christmas from wrapping paper to toys – you don’t want your home to already be cluttered before the festivities have even started. 

You can start by removing any unnecessary items from the main living spaces and areas that guests will spend the most time in, such as the living room and kitchen. Decluttering before you clean will also make cleaning so much easier, as you’ll have less bits and bobs to work around!

Focus on high-impact areas

It can sometimes feel as though the only appropriate way to clean your home to prepare for visitors is by cleaning every nook and cranny top to bottom. 

And whilst that might be tempting (and very rewarding once you’ve done it), it’s likely to feel quite overwhelming and exhausting at just the thought. So, instead of opting for that route, if you’re short on time, just focus your efforts on cleaning high-impact areas. This means spaces in your home that guests are likely to use or be present in more often.

This could include a guest bathroom – grab a Bathroom Cleaner that will banish limescale, soap scum and tough stains with ease, stock it with fresh towels and soap and don’t forget to give the toilet a good scrub. The living room – a good dust followed by a thorough vacuum will do the trick, you can also spray upholstery with a Fabric Refresher for long lasting scent. 

The kitchen – wipe down all countertops and appliances, mop the floor and clear out the fridge to make way for festive snacks!

Make a system and stick to it

There’s nothing wrong with a bit of organised cleaning fun! To make it easier to prepare your home for the Christmas period you can implement a few systems – one being to work room by room or task by task. 

This means completely finishing a full clean of one room or space before you move onto the next or fully tackling one task such as vacuuming the whole house. Another system is top-to-bottom cleaning, which is the best way to ensure a thorough clean. 

This means cleaning from the top down, so you would dust shelves first, then clean furniture, then vacuum or mop last. If you did this the other way round, you’d end up getting dust on freshly vacuumed carpets which is the last thing you want!

Another thing you can do is get everyone involved by delegating specific tasks to members of your household. Whether you assign each person a room or task, this can help to share the load and make the Christmas clean feel less overwhelming. 

If you have younger children, you can make it fun by putting on some Christmas music or turning it into a timed challenge – just make sure they stick the system, so it doesn’t transcend into Christmas chaos!  

Hosting and entertaining cleaning tips

Tackle stains as soon as you spot them

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of sitting down for Christmas dinner. As everyone begins to tuck in, cue the stains to your placemats, runner and tablecloth. Gravy dripping as the boat is passed along, cranberry sauce left in blobs and drinks spilling after a festive ‘cheers’. No need to panic however, those stains can easily be dealt with – but the trick to getting rid of them is to act fast. 

The main problem with stains like this is that the longer you leave them, the worse they will get. So ideally, get to it immediately or as soon as you notice it. This will give you the best chance to remove it completely – meaning you can tackle it, then enjoy your dinner!

If you remember anything when it comes to removing stains, make sure it is the golden rule - dab, don’t scrub. It’s sometimes a natural reaction to give a stain a really good scrub in a bit of a panic, but this is probably the worst thing you can do! Instead, dap the stained area gently. This will help to draw it out of the fabric. Scrubbing it just pushes the stain deeper into the material, making it really tricky to get rid of.

Protect your carpets at all costs

A part of your home that might suffer during the Christmas period is your carpets. Red wine from the adults, chocolates and sticky fingers from the kids, muddy paws from a furry visitor – you get the picture, and it’s not so pretty. 

Due to the material of carpets, likely to be wool or a synthetic fabric, you will need to opt for a Specialist Carpet Care & Upholstery Cleaner to remove stains from them. Simply spray the stain and gently dab, then pat dry. And always make sure you test on a small, inconspicuous area first!

With all the excitement, you might also find that some plants or small decorative Christmas trees get knocked over causing a spill of soil and dirt onto your floor or carpet. If this does happen, your gut instinct will be to reach for the vacuum. But this might actually not be the best choice! The only thing you should be using your vacuum for is to get rid of dust and debris. Anything bigger could actually damage it. So grab the dustpan and brush to remove any soil spills, then carpet cleaner to get rid of any stains!

Try not to neglect the oven

During the Christmas period, whether it’s for a Boxing Day buffet, a Christmas Eve treat or the main event on Christmas day – our ovens are working overtime to feed hungry guests. Because they are used so frequently, you might find that it needs a bit of TLC. 

Whilst it’s unlikely you’ll clean your oven on Christmas day, you may be left with little choice if you accidentally leave something in the oven!

Depending on the food that gets left behind, you might find you’ve got some spills that need tackling sooner rather than later. This doesn’t need to be really time consuming or require loads of products – a cleaning paste, such as Specialist Oven & Grill Cleaner, will do the trick. Grab a damp sponge or cloth, scoop some of the paste and apply to the area that needs some attention. 

Make sure you rub in a circular motion, then rinse or wipe clean. You can also forget about the washing up gloves with this product, as it is formulated with no harsh chemicals and is made with orange oil – a fitting aroma during the festive period!

For more expert cleaning guidance, visit the Astonish website: https://astonish.co.uk/blogs/tips-hacks

How to keep your floors clean over Christmas, according to the experts

Christmas brings extra guests, spills, and wear and tear to our homes and it can be a challenging time to keep floors clean, protected and looking their best. 

Whatever type of flooring you have in your home Alex Heslop, Trend Expert from Flooring Superstore, shares their tips with That's Christmas on how to preserve your flooring from spillages, Christmas tree pine needles and the influx of visitors over the festive season.

Real wood floors

“Hardwood floors are extremely durable, but they aren’t immune to spills, scratches and stains, so it pays to be mindful over the festive season to keep your home looking its best for Christmas guests and beyond.

“Prevention is always the best approach, so small steps like encouraging house guests to remove their shoes and ensuring doormats are placed by exterior doors can help a lot in capturing mud and debris from shoes, which can scratch your wooden flooring.

“Keep an eye out for pine needles and even tree sap falling from your Christmas tree onto the flooringbeneath. Keeping on top of vacuuming under the tree, wiping away any sap with a warm soapy damp cloth should do the trick and ensure the finish on your floor is preserved. 

"Wipe up spills as soon as you’re able to, again a soft damp cloth will suffice and will ensure your flooring doesn’t suffer from moisture damage. Avoid abrasive cleaning products, wet mops and steam cleaners on real wood as it can dull the finish and cause warping over time.”

Carpet

“Carpets are inevitably more susceptible to stains than other flooring types so aim to tackle spillages quickly, before they have time to soak in fully. Always blot the liquid rather than rubbing it, as this can further embed the liquid into the fibres and increase the chances of it staining. 

Avoid ‘hacks’ made popular on social media such as carpet scraping, which can cause lasting damage. Before Christmas get togethers, consider using a carpet protecter, which can help repel stains, as an extra precaution.

“You may wish to up your vacuuming schedule over the festive season, to prevent a build-up of dirt. After the busy period has subsided a specialist carpet steam cleaner as part of a more thorough January clean could be worthwhile.

“Some carpet materials are better equipped to tackle stains – wool for example is resilient and naturally stain resistant. Flooring Superstore’s Windermere Carpet in Honeycomb features a perfect blend of honey and fawn shades and is made from a hardwearing quality loop pile wool material.”

Wood-effect flooring

“Laminate and Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) are durable and have added waterproof properties, so these flooringtypes are great for withstanding the greater wear and tear which comes hand in hand with the festive season. 

Avoid cleaning spillages with very hot water as this can impact the finish and warp the boards. Abrasive cleaners could also scratch and dull the finish or even leave a residue which dulls the finish and makes it slippery to walk on.  

“A damp cloth with soapy water will usually suffice when it comes to tackling spillages. LVT ranges such as Flooring Superstore’s Asenso range offers multiple benefits when it comes to easy cleaning being waterproof, scratch resistant and easy to maintain, making it both practical and a stylish choice for any room in the house with added protection against spillages.”

That's Christmas would like to thank Alex and Flooring Superstore for their help.

https://www.flooringsuperstore.com