Yes, the post Christmas sales are now in full swing!
If you have money or gift vouchers for certain stores (including the Amazon-powered shop at http://thatsbooks.blogspot.com) then it would be a good idea to check them out now, to see what they have available for you to spend your Christmas money on.
Wednesday, 28 December 2011
Monday, 26 December 2011
Don't Yell for Yodel!
Don't yell for Yodel! That's the message that many customers are sending to mail order firms like Amazon, Littlewoods, Early Learning Centre, Homebase, Tesco, etc.
Yodel appear not to acknowledge that they have a problem, diverting attention from problems by saying that they made many successful deliveries.
However, there have been far too many examples of deliveries not being made to the intended recipient for utterly ludicrous and dubious reasons. Typical claims are that people were not in to receive the parcel when they were at home. That a card was put through a letterbox, when it wasn't. That because the home they were to deliver to was in a remote rural location they could not find it. Even though the address was, in reality, quite close to the centre of a very busy town!
If you cannot get any sense from Yodel or the firm that you have bought the item from (after all it is THEIR responsibility to ensure that you receive the goods you buy from them!) you can try contacting Consumer Direct http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights/Consumerrights/index.htm who will be able to help tell you either get your goods or your money back.
Complaints to Yodel can be made at http://www.yodel.co.uk/contact-us.aspx.
Also if you bought your goods by credit card then under the current laws you can get your money back from the credit card company.
Yodel appear not to acknowledge that they have a problem, diverting attention from problems by saying that they made many successful deliveries.
However, there have been far too many examples of deliveries not being made to the intended recipient for utterly ludicrous and dubious reasons. Typical claims are that people were not in to receive the parcel when they were at home. That a card was put through a letterbox, when it wasn't. That because the home they were to deliver to was in a remote rural location they could not find it. Even though the address was, in reality, quite close to the centre of a very busy town!
If you cannot get any sense from Yodel or the firm that you have bought the item from (after all it is THEIR responsibility to ensure that you receive the goods you buy from them!) you can try contacting Consumer Direct http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights/Consumerrights/index.htm who will be able to help tell you either get your goods or your money back.
Complaints to Yodel can be made at http://www.yodel.co.uk/contact-us.aspx.
Also if you bought your goods by credit card then under the current laws you can get your money back from the credit card company.
Saturday, 24 December 2011
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
We hope that you are able to get and to give whatever Christmas cheer and gifts that you want, and that next year will be a prosperous and joyous one.
We are now closing down for the holidays, although if an urgent story breaks, we might cover it.
If you need to buy an urgent, emergency Christmas present, please remember that you can buy Amazon Gift Vouchers (to either email or print off for the recipient!) at the That's Books Amazon Shop at http://thatsbooks.blogspot.com and everyone loves shopping at Amazon, don't they? So give them the chance to have a good Christmas gift that will look like you planned it well in advance, even though it is, really, all a bit last minute and all courtesy of That's Christmas and That's Books and Amazon!
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Friday, 23 December 2011
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Run off the Christmas Calories with Running Gear Discounts from SportsShoes.com
Running and sportswear retailer Sportsshoes.com is helping Brits burn off indulgent Christmas food by offering big discounts on key running items over the festive period. With over 700 products with a 50% discount it’s the perfect time to get running and burn off the 1000 calories1 we’re each expected to consume at dinner time alone on Christmas day!
Brett Bannister, MD of SportsShoes.com says: “The festive period is of course a time to indulge and while it’s great to treat yourself for a few days, it’s important to think about regaining a healthy balance come the New Year.
“New running gear is a great incentive to start exercising, and we hope that these festive discounts will add further reason for people to work up a sweat!”
All discounted items are available to purchase at www.sportsshoes.com/running, with top reductions including:
• Nike Air Pegasus+ 28 Running Shoes £49.99 (RRP £74.99 = discount of £25)
There is a £25 discount on these popular running shoes, which celebrated 28 years of existence in 2011 and are available in men’s and women’s models and a range of colour ways.
• New Balance Lady Tech Running Tights £19.99 (RRP £34.99 = discount of £15)
The New Balance Lady Hi-Viz Speed Tights are great for winter runs. Breathable, and comfortable, these tights also feature mesh vents and hi-viz and reflective components to keep you visible and with 42% off they’re the perfect buy.
• Underarmour ColdGear Compression Half Zip Top £29.99 (RRP £49.99 = discount of £20)
There’s 40% off this running top and it’s perfect for winter running. The Under Armour ColdGear Top has double-sided fabric that wicks moisture away from the skin which helps to regulate body temperature and enhances performance.
• Saucony Lady Energy Bra Top £14.99 (RRP £29.99 = discount of £15)
A good quality sports bra should be a part of any lady’s essential running kit. This one has a seamless fit and moisture wicking fabric.
• Hilly Mono Skin Lite Anklet Socks 3 Pack £11.97 (RRP £23.97 = discount of £12)
This top-quality multipack of lightweight, moisture wicking running socks currently have a £12 discount which makes them an essential winter running purchase.
For all of these, and further big savings on sportswear visit www.sportsshoes.com.
Christmas at The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa
The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa, Bordeaux’s luxury Palace hotel, will be celebrating the upcoming festive season with a unique collaboration with Repetto, France’s original ballet brand and favourite flat to the stars, to design a magical Christmas Tree.
Reflecting the same values of elegance and synonymous with impeccable style and cultural heritage, The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa are delighted to announce their Repetto Christmas Tree this 2011. Repetto will dress the Christmas Tree in the lobby, at the heart of the hotel, with a beautiful ballet theme to create an enchanting centrepiece for hotel guests and local Bordelais clientele to enjoy.
An ode to the art and décor of ballet, the impressive Christmas Tree will be sprinkled with enchanting Repetto touches and fairy-tale trinkets including pink and black satin ballet shoes, golden medals and Repetto-wrapped presents! Situated in La Place de La Comédie square overlooking Le Grand Théâtre, The Grand Hotel de Bordeaux & Spa was designed by Victor Louis in the 18th century, the same architect who created the renowned opera house three years earlier. Their neo-classical facades offer a mirror effect across the square. Repetto’s Bordeaux boutique is located a stone’s throw from the hotel on the Cours de L'Intendance.
Madame Rose Repetto first created her ballet shoe in 1947 for her son in a tiny workshop near to the National Opera of Paris, and her ballet slippers have gone on to be worn by dancing greats from Kirov to Cendrillon, and have become much-loved by glamorous leading ladies, including Brigitte Bardot, Catherine Deneuve and Kate Moss. Repetto ballet shoes are displayed in the Selfridges’ shoe galleries.
Rates for a superior room at The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa start from €464, including daily breakfast. BA flies from London, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds and Manchester to Bordeaux daily.
Located in France’s South-West region, The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa, overseen by Yan Vacher, is situated in the centre of the city, in La Place de La Comédie square overlooking Le Grand Théâtre. The hotel offers its local and international clientele a gastronomic experience in the Michelin-starred ‘Le Pressoir d’Argent’ fine-dining restaurant headed by Pascal Nibaudeau; the ‘Brasserie L’Europe’ restaurant with outdoor terrace; and ‘L’Orangerie’, a buzzing space in the heart of the hotel. Les Bains de Léa spa, offers treatments by acclaimed French beauty brand NUXE.
Bathed with natural light throughout, the spa leads out onto a terrace, offering exceptional views across the rooftops of Bordeaux. Originally designed by Victor Louis in the 18th century, The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa re-opened at the end of 2007, after a full redesign overseen by internationally acclaimed interior designer Jacques Garcia. Bordeaux’s Palace hotel, The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa, boasts an unparalleled level of luxury and elegance in the city, steeped in cultural heritage.
www.ghbordeaux.com/uk/index.php
Reflecting the same values of elegance and synonymous with impeccable style and cultural heritage, The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa are delighted to announce their Repetto Christmas Tree this 2011. Repetto will dress the Christmas Tree in the lobby, at the heart of the hotel, with a beautiful ballet theme to create an enchanting centrepiece for hotel guests and local Bordelais clientele to enjoy.
An ode to the art and décor of ballet, the impressive Christmas Tree will be sprinkled with enchanting Repetto touches and fairy-tale trinkets including pink and black satin ballet shoes, golden medals and Repetto-wrapped presents! Situated in La Place de La Comédie square overlooking Le Grand Théâtre, The Grand Hotel de Bordeaux & Spa was designed by Victor Louis in the 18th century, the same architect who created the renowned opera house three years earlier. Their neo-classical facades offer a mirror effect across the square. Repetto’s Bordeaux boutique is located a stone’s throw from the hotel on the Cours de L'Intendance.
Madame Rose Repetto first created her ballet shoe in 1947 for her son in a tiny workshop near to the National Opera of Paris, and her ballet slippers have gone on to be worn by dancing greats from Kirov to Cendrillon, and have become much-loved by glamorous leading ladies, including Brigitte Bardot, Catherine Deneuve and Kate Moss. Repetto ballet shoes are displayed in the Selfridges’ shoe galleries.
Rates for a superior room at The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa start from €464, including daily breakfast. BA flies from London, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds and Manchester to Bordeaux daily.
Located in France’s South-West region, The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa, overseen by Yan Vacher, is situated in the centre of the city, in La Place de La Comédie square overlooking Le Grand Théâtre. The hotel offers its local and international clientele a gastronomic experience in the Michelin-starred ‘Le Pressoir d’Argent’ fine-dining restaurant headed by Pascal Nibaudeau; the ‘Brasserie L’Europe’ restaurant with outdoor terrace; and ‘L’Orangerie’, a buzzing space in the heart of the hotel. Les Bains de Léa spa, offers treatments by acclaimed French beauty brand NUXE.
Bathed with natural light throughout, the spa leads out onto a terrace, offering exceptional views across the rooftops of Bordeaux. Originally designed by Victor Louis in the 18th century, The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa re-opened at the end of 2007, after a full redesign overseen by internationally acclaimed interior designer Jacques Garcia. Bordeaux’s Palace hotel, The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa, boasts an unparalleled level of luxury and elegance in the city, steeped in cultural heritage.
www.ghbordeaux.com/uk/index.php
Coworth Park provides the perfect English countryside Christmas
Set in 240 acres of Berkshire parkland, Coworth Park, Dorchester Collection’s luxury country house hotel and spa, provides the perfect English Christmas in the countryside. A three night stay features a full festive programme, including Christmas Champagne Afternoon Tea with carols, Christmas lunch in either Restaurant Coworth Park or The Barn, chocolate and wine master classes and activities and parties in Coworth Park Kids.
Christmas Eve Arrival
Bottle of champagne on ice in room for arrival
Christmas Champagne Afternoon Tea served in The Drawing Room with carols sung by a local choir
5pm Children’s Story Time by the Entrance Hall fireplace
Pre-dinner drinks followed by three-course dinner in either Restaurant Coworth Park or The Barn
Transfers to Sunningdale Parish for Midnight Mass
Hot chocolate or a hot toddy and cheese in The Drawing Room upon return with entertainment by Coworth Park’s pianist.
Christmas Day
Gifts delivered by Father Christmas during the night for Coworth’s Park’s young guests
Breakfast served in the Oval & Garden Rooms
Pre-lunch drinks with entertainment by Coworth Park’s pianist in The Drawing Room
Festive six-course lunch served in Restaurant Coworth Park or festive five-course menu served in The Barn
Queen’s Speech showing in Coworth Park’s Tower House Christmas Cinema. Tea, coffee and pastries served in The Drawing Room throughout the afternoon
Evening buffet in the Mansion House.
Boxing Day
Brunch served in the Oval & Garden rooms
Behind the scenes tour of Coworth Park including a visit to the kitchens as seen on BBC’s MasterChef, and the chance to meet some of the team
Cake and chocolate masterclasses by the Coworth Park Pastry Team; estate tours with the Coworth Park Gardeners; wine tasting and master class with Coworth Park’s sommelier
Afternoon Tea available throughout the afternoon in The Drawing Room
Dinner in either Restaurant Coworth Park or The Barn and an after dinner cocktail or glass of champagne in The Drawing Room.
The Spa at Coworth Park
Guests seeking some pampering during their Christmas stay can head to The Spa at Coworth Park, which features eight treatment rooms (including two doubles), manicure/pedicure suite, heated indoor swimming pool, relaxation room and The Spatisserie. To book a treatment in The Spa at Coworth Park please call +44 1344 756 756 or email spa.coworthpark@dorchestercollection.com Gift certificates for treatments and spa packages are available online and from The Spa at Coworth Park.
Tuesday 27 December – Departure
Breakfast served in both Restaurant Coworth Park and The Barn before departure.
Christmas at Coworth Park starts from £1,008 +VAT per person for three nights from 24 December – 27 December 2011, based on two people sharing a superior stable room and dining in The Barn and from £1,127 +VAT per person for three nights from 24 December – 27 December 2011, based on two people sharing a superior stable room and dining in Restaurant Coworth Park.
Three nights accommodation and dining for one child of up to four years, based on sharing a room with parents, is complimentary and from £260 for a child of 4 – twelve years old. Rooms with fireplaces available on request subject to availability. To make a reservation please contact the Coworth Park reservations team on +44 (0)1344 630 542 or email reservations.coworthpark@dorchestercollection.com
Coworth Park is a 70-room luxury country house hotel and spa set in 240 acres of picturesque Berkshire parkland just 45 minutes from central London and 20 minutes from Heathrow airport. Its location, unrivalled in the UK for the ease and convenience of its transport links, is also enhanced by its own helipad. The estate includes an eco-luxury Spa with indoor pool and three restaurants including the Spatisserie, relaxed dining in The Barn and fine-dining in the Mansion House. The only UK hotel to feature its own polo fields as well as an exceptional equestrian centre, current facilities include stabling for 30 horses together with self-contained accommodation for grooms and a full programme of polo tournaments.
Dorchester Collection is a portfolio of the world’s foremost luxury hotels in Europe and the USA, each of which reflects the distinctive culture of its destination. By applying its unrivalled experience and capability in owning and operating some of the greatest individual hotels, the company’s mission is to develop an impeccable group of the finest landmark hotels through acquisition as well as management of wholly-owned and part-owned hotels, and to enter into management agreements.
The current portfolio includes the following hotels (in order of them joining the group):
The Dorchester, London
The Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills
Le Meurice, Paris
Hotel Plaza Athénée, Paris
Hotel Principe di Savoia, Milan
Hotel Bel-Air, Los Angeles (re-opening in October 2011)
Coworth Park, Ascot, UK
45 Park Lane, London
Le Richemond, Geneva
www.dorchestercollection.com
Christmas Eve Arrival
Bottle of champagne on ice in room for arrival
Christmas Champagne Afternoon Tea served in The Drawing Room with carols sung by a local choir
5pm Children’s Story Time by the Entrance Hall fireplace
Pre-dinner drinks followed by three-course dinner in either Restaurant Coworth Park or The Barn
Transfers to Sunningdale Parish for Midnight Mass
Hot chocolate or a hot toddy and cheese in The Drawing Room upon return with entertainment by Coworth Park’s pianist.
Christmas Day
Gifts delivered by Father Christmas during the night for Coworth’s Park’s young guests
Breakfast served in the Oval & Garden Rooms
Pre-lunch drinks with entertainment by Coworth Park’s pianist in The Drawing Room
Festive six-course lunch served in Restaurant Coworth Park or festive five-course menu served in The Barn
Queen’s Speech showing in Coworth Park’s Tower House Christmas Cinema. Tea, coffee and pastries served in The Drawing Room throughout the afternoon
Evening buffet in the Mansion House.
Boxing Day
Brunch served in the Oval & Garden rooms
Behind the scenes tour of Coworth Park including a visit to the kitchens as seen on BBC’s MasterChef, and the chance to meet some of the team
Cake and chocolate masterclasses by the Coworth Park Pastry Team; estate tours with the Coworth Park Gardeners; wine tasting and master class with Coworth Park’s sommelier
Afternoon Tea available throughout the afternoon in The Drawing Room
Dinner in either Restaurant Coworth Park or The Barn and an after dinner cocktail or glass of champagne in The Drawing Room.
The Spa at Coworth Park
Guests seeking some pampering during their Christmas stay can head to The Spa at Coworth Park, which features eight treatment rooms (including two doubles), manicure/pedicure suite, heated indoor swimming pool, relaxation room and The Spatisserie. To book a treatment in The Spa at Coworth Park please call +44 1344 756 756 or email spa.coworthpark@dorchestercollection.com Gift certificates for treatments and spa packages are available online and from The Spa at Coworth Park.
Tuesday 27 December – Departure
Breakfast served in both Restaurant Coworth Park and The Barn before departure.
Christmas at Coworth Park starts from £1,008 +VAT per person for three nights from 24 December – 27 December 2011, based on two people sharing a superior stable room and dining in The Barn and from £1,127 +VAT per person for three nights from 24 December – 27 December 2011, based on two people sharing a superior stable room and dining in Restaurant Coworth Park.
Three nights accommodation and dining for one child of up to four years, based on sharing a room with parents, is complimentary and from £260 for a child of 4 – twelve years old. Rooms with fireplaces available on request subject to availability. To make a reservation please contact the Coworth Park reservations team on +44 (0)1344 630 542 or email reservations.coworthpark@dorchestercollection.com
Coworth Park is a 70-room luxury country house hotel and spa set in 240 acres of picturesque Berkshire parkland just 45 minutes from central London and 20 minutes from Heathrow airport. Its location, unrivalled in the UK for the ease and convenience of its transport links, is also enhanced by its own helipad. The estate includes an eco-luxury Spa with indoor pool and three restaurants including the Spatisserie, relaxed dining in The Barn and fine-dining in the Mansion House. The only UK hotel to feature its own polo fields as well as an exceptional equestrian centre, current facilities include stabling for 30 horses together with self-contained accommodation for grooms and a full programme of polo tournaments.
Dorchester Collection is a portfolio of the world’s foremost luxury hotels in Europe and the USA, each of which reflects the distinctive culture of its destination. By applying its unrivalled experience and capability in owning and operating some of the greatest individual hotels, the company’s mission is to develop an impeccable group of the finest landmark hotels through acquisition as well as management of wholly-owned and part-owned hotels, and to enter into management agreements.
The current portfolio includes the following hotels (in order of them joining the group):
The Dorchester, London
The Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills
Le Meurice, Paris
Hotel Plaza Athénée, Paris
Hotel Principe di Savoia, Milan
Hotel Bel-Air, Los Angeles (re-opening in October 2011)
Coworth Park, Ascot, UK
45 Park Lane, London
Le Richemond, Geneva
www.dorchestercollection.com
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