Freshly Social

Green Motor Show coming to London in May

admin — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:41:12 +0000

Last year saw the launch of EcoVelocity, a London motor show with a focus on sustainable, environmentally responsible motoring. The low-carbon motor show provided a platform for leading manufacturers to showcase their latest eco-friendly models, and offered plenty of insightful information to visitors looking to make green motoring a part of their lifestyle. Last year’s EcoVelocity motor show, held at Battersea Power Station, was hailed as a great success, and 2012 will see the event returning to London in May.

New and used car dealers worldwide will doubtless recognise the significance of a high-profile green motor show like EcoVelocity; these days it’s vital to consider the environmental impact of a car, and more consumers are looking for sustainability on top of appearance and performance. This trend has naturally had an impact on the auto industry as a whole, prompting the launch of numerous motor shows with an eco-friendly focus.

Last year’s EcoVelocity motor show featured 17 cutting-edge green car brands and around 7000 consumers were convinced to test drive the low-carbon vehicles. Highlights of the show included the unveiling of eco-friendly super cars, a daily low-carbon motor parade and green technology debates hosted by an expert panel. This year’s EcoVelocity motor show promises to be bigger, brighter and greener! If you’re not in London for this prestigious green motor show, car dealers Johannesburg will tell you that 2012 will offer plenty of opportunities to check out eco-friendly vehicles at South African motor shows as well.

EcoVelocity will be held at ExCel London from May 10th – 13th this year; tickets to the motor show will cost £10 per adult (or £25 per family). Whether you’re an eco-warrior or an automobile enthusiast, be sure to visit the EcoVelocity motor show for the latest and greatest in green motoring technology.

Menswear Stakes its Claim in London Fashion Week

admin — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:42:24 +0000

Menswear dashingly proclaims that it is no longer a tepid second to womenswear in London fashion week, launching June 2012. The show, elegantly entitled ‘London Collections: Men’ will host an array of designers, from James Long to Sir Paul Smith. Burdened with the expectation of success, London fashion week designers are putting together revelatory exhibits in order to attract buyers from across the world.

BFC chairman, Harold Tillman, was quoted as saying that the collection will form a “cross-cultural programme creating a festival for menswear in what will be a truly exciting year for the UK.” This announcement has already sparked speculations of an Elton John concert at the event.

With so much negative press focusing on the UK economic climate, the sale and growth of quality menswear in the UK should be celebrated. The launch of a ‘boys only’ event at London fashion week is yet another indication that the menswear industry is growing from strength to strength. The introduction of London fashion week street style shows the collaboration of vivid, bold palette with heavy-duty outfits, an example of this can be seen in Dickies workwear.

The global growth of men’s fashion is indicated in the rise of sales from £2.7 billion to £21.4 billion. The notion that catwalk-led fashion is too impractical has been buried by men who have broken free of those restraints. The trends will have men going from double-breasted suits to their work overalls, slipping into sport luxe outfits to wind down their day at the gym.

While London prepares for the 2012 Olympics, the dates and tickets for London fashion week present a unique opportunity to visit the capital before the crowds descend. According to Gordon Richardson, “you only have to be in London for five minutes to see that there is an energy here that you don’t see anywhere else in the world.” The buzz surrounding the men’s collection for London fashion week suggests that it is an event that shouldn’t be missed.

Wildlife Photography Contest For London Exhibition

admin — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:24:19 +0000

Photographers across the United Kingdom are currently attempting to capture some of the most magical and natural moments in the wild for the Wildlife Photography Awards, which is held annually and sponsored by Canon, Sky and the National Wildlife to promote the natural environment and draw attention to nature conservation projects. With prize money of 20 000 pounds in total and amazing prizes, the wildlife photography competition will not only grant the winner 5000 pounds and the possibility of landing a photography gig with a major publishing house, but also will have their work exhibited in London for weeks for public appreciation.

There will be 12 distinct categories over the Wildlife Photography awards and entries will be taken online or via post up until May 2012. While photographers are able to snap up that moment in time of marine life, birds or their favourite predators, the only restriction is that the animal is that the photograph needs to be taken within the United Kingdom as the theme is the preservation of local wildlife. This means that photographs snapped on your Kruger Park safari trip to South Africa will not be eligible for awards but posting those photographs online will on be to the benefit of the general public to marvel at. The main categories are overall winner and there is much emphasis placed this year on the youth categories with prizes for best photographer under the age of 11 and between the ages of 11 and 18.

The panel of judges for the Wildlife Photographers Awards are well esteemed journalists from all over the UK, including those that are working in the publishing industry and those working for the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Many previous entrants have magical photos that would rival those taken on 4 day Kruger Park Safari’s and the winners of the competition will have their artwork showcased at the Mall Galleries in London. So if you have a quick finger and an eye for magic enter the Wildlife Photography Awards and share your magic with the whole of Britain.

In Memory of the Legendary Grimaldi, Join London’s Clowns at Church

admin — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:43:39 +0000

At a rather unusual yearly event, clowns from all corners of London gather under a single roof to commemorate compatriot Joseph Grimaldi, who is considered by many to be the King of Clowns. Born in 1778, Grimaldi spent most of his years inducing fits of laughter until he was finally laid to rest in 1837. The commemoration is a local church service, held at the Holy Trinity Church in Dalston, East London on the 5th February. The event has been an annual tradition since 1946 and attracts some sixty clowns in full attire; Grimaldi fans and clown enthusiasts fill every other inch of space in the church hall.

Grimaldi was a pantomime clown by profession, and was considered unsurpassable by all who witnessed his performances. As the estate agents Battersea or even Southwark will tell you, some of his acts are often revived at the Theatre Royal in Covent Garden. Joseph Grimaldi was a true innovator in comedy at the time, using the stage name of Joey in some of his performances, who arguably introduces the concept of the modern clown to the world. Traditionally, the role of the clown was a country bumpkin or fool, but the Grimaldi clown developed into a central character in the Harlequinade, a comical theatrical genre. Joseph Grimaldi was a master of physical comedy and had an uncanny ability to invent tricks and buffoonery and is credited for introducing audience participation to the circuit.

To join London’s clown in commemoration of the comical genius Joseph Grimaldi, make your way down to the Holy Trinity Church no later than 3pm when the service starts. It is however advisable to arrive earlier to get a good seat; the event is popular and attracts the crowds. Often the church overflows with visitors, according to a local property management service. Furthermore, press photographers often take up large sections of the church. After the service, the clowns usually perform a brilliant act for the public, making it a fantastic family event. The Church service for Joseph Grimaldi is free, as is the performance, although donations are always welcome.

Street Parties for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee

admin — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:57:29 +0000

With the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee on the horizon, councils have given permission for street parties to be held, also waiving the legal fee required to close roads for social gatherings. With over 50,000 applications for road closures, the Diamond Jubilee will see as many, if not more, residents celebrating this momentous event than the wedding of Prince William to Katherine Middleton in April 2010.

With summer on the way, street parties are already being planned and highly anticipated. Nothing like dusting off the open-toed shoes, shorts and t-shirt, summer umbrellas and cooler boxes for some decent relax time when celebrating and enjoying the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012. London estate agents may find themselves with their hands full as people start looking for apartments in popular streets known for their vibey street parties.

The consensus is the three million people will be out and about at street parties this year on 3 and 4 June 2012, which is a bank holiday. With William and Kate’s wedding reviving a spark of celebration, councils have seen a surge in applications for street closures.

Chris Gittins, director of Streets Alive, a street party organiser, predicts this year will be huge for street parties since the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977. Street parties are a British tradition that has always raised the spirits of loyal subjects to Queen and country, but their resurrection couldn’t have come at a better time for the country to celebrate everywhere. Even expats will host their own celebrations wherever they’re living in the world, and Buckingham Palace is jovially backing the community gathering.

Not leaving anyone out, Buckingham Palace officials have backed the Big Lunch Scheme on 3 June 2012, which encourages neighbours and communities to share one massive lunch. The concept is purely for community growth and strength. It’s a great idea in bringing warring neighbours and neighbourhoods together to celebrate and honour a lady who is clearly a firm favourite throughout, not only England but also the world.

Queen Elizabeth, the second longest reigning monarch in over 1,000 years, has reigned for 59 years and 95 days. As much as the monarch has weathered her fair share of public vitriol, Queen Elizabeth II has always stood firm in her decisions. Endearing herself to the masses through empathy and sympathy, Elizabeth has slowly opened up to show the world there is a caring mother, grandmother and person behind the great walls of Buckingham Palace. This is a regal and legendary lady who cares deeply for her family, people and country.

Everyone from Brighton to Marylebone homes, and perhaps some expats flying home for the celebrations, will have an extraordinary lady to honour at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Diamond Jubilee Flotilla will Feature One Thousand Boats

admin — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:46:03 +0000

The upcoming Olympics isn’t the only event that will see the whole of London celebrating in 2012 – the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, taking place this June, will mark the 60th anniversary of the Queen’s accession of the throne. Queen Elizabeth 2 became the monarch of the British Commonwealth in February 1952, however the UK Diamond Jubilee celebrations will be held to coincide with the Queen’s birthday on 4th June. This means that Londoners will be treated to a four-day bank holiday over the time of the Diamond Jubilee, and the celebrations will include everything from street parties to London park parties.

Of course, the highlight of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee will be the maritime parade on the Thames River – this will appeal not only to aluminium boat builders, but also to fans of all things nautical whether they are royalists or not. The Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant will be held on June 3rd and will feature a flotilla of no less than one thousand vessels, ranging from tugs to tall ships.

Among the boats selected for the Thames Diamond Jubilee Flotilla are some of the UK’s best-known vessels, such as Boadicea, a vessel famed as Europe’s oldest operational sailing boat. The Diamond Jubilee Pageant will also boast an extensive selection of the following vessels:

• Cargo boats
• Dragon boats
• Fire boats
• Fishing boats
• Historic vessels
• Kayaks
• Lifeboats
• Rowing boats
• Tugs
• Yachts

Naturally, the crown jewel of this Diamond Jubilee procession will be the Royal barge carrying Queen Elizabeth 2 and other Royal family members. This vessel promises to be a dream come true for boat refit enthusiasts and casual sailors alike!

This Diamond Jubilee Pageant will be the largest flotilla seen on the Thames in over three centuries, and it’s expected that around one million spectators are expected to watch the parade. Be sure not to miss this exciting Diamond Jubilee celebration on London’s iconic waterway.

Extreme Sports To Get Your Blood Pumping In London

admin — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:21:50 +0000

London is known for many things. The river Thames, London Bridge, bad food, even worse weather (well, that’s not entirely true) and a cauldron bubbling with different cultures and nationalities. If these things don’t somewhat interest you then there are other activities that you would enjoy, especially if you are a thrill seeking, adrenalin pumping individual. In this article we look at some of the extreme sports and activities to be enjoyed in and around London. Get your tough workwear ready and let the rush begin!

Let the Zorbing begin

Zorbing is one of the newer extreme sport pastimes to make the extreme sports list. Pod London is Europe’s premier zorbing destination and has an entire park dedicated to it. Sorry, I should start off with explaining what zorbing exactly is. Zorbing or to zorb is when an individual is placed in a large inflatable ball with two layers of cushions and rolls down and bounces down a steep hill. Sound fun, I’m sure the head rush is insane. Check out http://www.zorbing.co.uk/ for your zorbing experience.

Bungeeeeeeee

Right, just count to three and jump and then scream. Bungee jumping is one of the most extreme sports around in London. How about bungee jumping while having the view of the iconic London Bridge while on your way down? Enjoy spectacular views of London on your way up in the carne and an adrenalin pumping experience on the way down.

Go karting

A great among extreme sports in London is go kart racing. Every petrol head or need for speed individual can get their kicks racing around the track in an incredibly fast go kart. It’s great to do with friends and see who is the most competitive of the lot. A great place to enjoy this extreme sport is in London, you can find more information at http://www.exelement.co.uk/experience/introduction-to-go-karting-1698.php

Get extreme while getting fit

Getting your adrenalin pumping is great but how about combining an extreme sport with physical exertion and fitness. When all of these are combined we get rock climbing. London offers an amazing indoor wall where you can try your luck at this extreme sport before you take it to the mountain side.

These are just some of the extreme sports that you can enjoy in London. Whether a Londoner looking for something new to do or a tourist with adrenalin on the brain, deck yourself out in Dickies workwear and enjoy the ride.

Shipping Conference – Bunker Management and Vessel Efficiency

admin — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 09:44:56 +0000

Fleet owners from around the world realise how difficult it is to optimise their overall freight operation and combining with professionals in the industry at the 3^rd Bunker Management and Vehicle Efficiency shipping conference being held at the Marriot Hotel in Kensington on the 1^st of February is a way for the industry to move forward as a whole. The conference aims to bring professionals in the shipping industry together to discuss obstacles that they face in their professions and also to listen to speeches from the larger companies and governing bodies that effect the industry as a whole. The main aim of the conference is to have professionals walk away from the event with new ideas and options for making maximum profit for their business through improved measuring and performance enhancement technology.

The shipping conference is targeted at key high level decision making personnel who are in charge of shipping receiving and complete fleet management tasks. Everyone from port agents through to senior fleet directors can gain something from the 2 day event with key topics up for discussion being: Fuel Enhancement and Saving initiatives occurring in research and development, effective ship management in regards to performance and fuel usage as well as power management and energy conservation at sea. Round table discussions and meet and greet segments are included in the two day event to optimise collaboration and information sharing between colleagues and to forward the industry through shipping conferences. Key speakers are included from OWA, Marorka, IBIA and Kongsberg Maritime to name a few.

Booking for the conference is already in full swing and be sure to note that accommodation is not included in the price for the 2 day shipping conference. Freight shipping is in need of more conferences such as this, and after this weekend of discussion and information sharing, fleet management is moving forward in efficiency and profit driven success.

Valentine’s Day Events to Enjoy In London

admin — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:01:35 +0000

Valentine’s Day is upon us once again and many loved up couples will want to enjoy a fine meal or something romantic. That’s all great but why not participate in something extra special this Valentine’s day? In this informative and interesting article we look at some Valentine’s Day events with a difference for you and your loved one to enjoy. Do something a little out of the ordinary and have an exceptional and memorable Valentine’s Day. From the London Eye romantic experience to a disco boat London being transformed into the perfect setting for a romantic dinner, we have the idea you may be looking for.

Take your love to new heights

The London Eye is an iconic feature of London that millions of tourists visit every year but have you ever considered how romantic it would be to enjoy a moonlit ride on the Eye with your loved one? For an innovative idea among Valentine’s Day events in London why not head to the London Eye where a romantic event can be had. Each couple that boards the 30 minute flight will receive chocolates and roses.

Romance in nature

How great is this among Valentine’s Day events ideas; an utterly romantic evening at the magical Kew Royal Botanical gardens. Kew gardens is offering a package for this incredible Valentine’s Day event that includes a champagne reception, a tour of the Henry Moore sculptures and a delectable dinner at the Orangery Restaurant served with unlimited drinks.

The love cruise

A great Valentine’s Day event to be immensely enjoyed could also be a romantic cruise down the river Thames taking in the city by night and enjoying a romantic dinner with your partner. Many ladies enjoy a hen party boat on these cruises but it does not mean that a romantic evening with a delicious dinner cannot also be enjoyed.

These are three of some of the Valentine’s Day events that can be enjoyed in London. It’s the quintessential day of love so whatever you do, be romantic and enjoy your partners company.

Warehouse Parties Back In Stride And Some Upcoming Events

admin — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:52:55 +0000

Warehouse parties have become somewhat of a London clubbing legend. In the past they had bit more of a negative stigma attached to them as they were mostly utilized for the underground and illegal raves. Not anymore. The warehouse party has become a viable option for hosting an unforgettable event and party. They are large enough to host an enormous amount of people and are in an area where the problem of noise pollution and complaints are unheard of.

In the colder winter months, a city warehouse party replaces festival season and in the next few up and coming months we gear up for an array of awesome acts and DJs that are coming to a warehouse near you. Warehouse racking and other design aspects of the warehouse party just add to the experience at hand. Incredible stages are erected and the sound and lighting has room to go wild. On the 10^th of February we have DJ Pierre, arguably the man that created acid house in London. The party is being held in a secret warehouse and this is a not to be missed warehouse party in London, the venue will disclose the address closer to the time. Another exciting addition to the warehouse party list is that The End is having something of a reincarnation. Before you get excited, they are not reopening the iconic club but having a warehouse party on the 7^th of March at the Southwark Arches. It’s bound to be a superb event with all of the old favorites from The End making an appearance. The 12th Cocoon Ibiza Season has now drawn to a close but Cocoon decided a simple “Thank You” was not enough for their special friends in the UK and London. That’s why they’re bringing the full Cocoon Hero’s Ibiza experience to London as a way of saying Thanks to the people on the dance floor. They will host a warehouse party on the 10^th of March at the Great Suffolk Street Warehouse.

Although London clubber have seen some of their favorite clubs close over the past few months, these few amazing warehouse parties are sure to get the dancers moving. Keep an eye open for more warehouse parties coming your way and we hope to see you see you soon on elevated mezzanine floors in the middle of an awesome warehouse party soon.