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Top tips for happy and healthy eyes this Autumn

<p dir="ltr">As the season changes, so do our healthcare needs as many people struggle with irritating allergies. </p> <p dir="ltr">With cooler temperatures, dry air and an increase in pollen often being synonymous with autumn and spring, for many people, leaving the house means having irritated eyes. </p> <p dir="ltr">Luckily, leading Ophthalmologist, Dr. Jacqueline Beltz has shared her essential tips for eye care during autumn with OverSixty, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the change of seasons without jeopardising your vision. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>1. Keep your sunglasses handy</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">While the sun is usually not as intense in autumn as it is during summer, Dr Beltz says that using sunglasses can benefit your eyes in many ways. </p> <p dir="ltr">“ Not only do they shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they also guard against wind and debris,” she said. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>2. Increase your lubricant eye drops</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Dr Beltz said, “The drop in temperature and the dryer air can contribute to discomfort and dryness in your eyes, so consider increasing the use of lubricant eye drops to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.”</p> <p dir="ltr">By keeping up your eye drops in autumn, you can prevent further damage to your eyes in the long run. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>3. Clean your eyelashes daily</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">According to Dr Beltz, keeping up with good health and hygiene along the eyelid margins is essential, especially during the autumn months. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Cleanse your lashes daily and use a warm compress to optimise the quality of your tear film. This helps in preventing irritation and supports overall eye health.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>4. Consider a humidifier</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">To ensure a more comfortable environment for your eyes, Dr Beltz recommends adding moisture to the air can help alleviate dry eyes.</p> <p dir="ltr">She said, “Combat the dry indoor air by using a humidifier in your room, especially while you sleep.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>5. Be proactive with allergies</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">If you are prone to allergies, Dr Beltz said it's best to always be prepared ahead of time. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Autumn allergies are a reality, with triggers like pollen, mould, and dust prevalent during this season,” she said. </p> <p dir="ltr">“If you experience red, itchy, or swollen eyes, consider antihistamine eye drops. Keep your hands clean and avoid rubbing your eyes.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>6. Revitalise your eye makeup</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">While replacing your eye makeup is important all year around, the addition of allergens makes it even more important to Change mascara and non-cleanable products like liquid eyeliner at least every three months. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Especially if you have sensitive eyes, makeup products can harbour bacteria, leading to increased eye irritation.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“Refreshing your eye makeup products to options that are designed to be better suited for dry eyes or eye sensitivity.”</p> <p dir="ltr">If you are <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/beauty-style/embracing-the-art-of-beauty-without-compromise">prone to sensitive eyes</a>, consider trying the OKKIYO <a href="https://www.okkiyo.com/products/protect-and-preserve-mascara#xd_co_f=NzdiNzdlNTctNTA1MS00NTBkLWE1MGEtNjRkMGE2OTI1N2Vj~">Prioriteyes Mascara</a>, which was developed by Dr Beltz to prioritise both style and eye health.</p> <p dir="ltr">While these tips for eye health can seem simple and seemingly unimportant, Dr Beltz assures that by following these tips, you will make a world of difference for your eye health overall. </p> <p dir="ltr">She said, “Implementing these simple tips can make a significant difference in keeping your eyes comfortable and vibrant throughout the season.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p>

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Royal fans shocked as Queen’s grandson “splits” from wife of 12 years

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> <p>The Queen’s grandson Peter Phillips is reportedly separating from his wife of 12 years, Autumn Phillips.</p> <p>Princess Anne’s son married the Canadian-born Autumn in 2008 and are parents to nine-year-old Savannah and seven-year-old Isla.</p> <p>The news has reportedly come as a shock to both Peter and the Queen.</p> <p>One pal revealed to<span> </span><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/10935833/peter-phillips-splits-wife-autumn-kelly-queen/" target="_blank">The Sun</a>: “Peter is absolutely devastated by this and just didn’t see it coming.</p> <p>“He thought he was happily married and had the perfect family with two lovely daughters. But he is now in total shock.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8aaUOFnAtr/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8aaUOFnAtr/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Royal Family (@royal_family_history)</a> on Feb 10, 2020 at 8:10pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“Autumn is a wonderful wife and mother and a very intelligent woman, but she’s been telling her friends for some time that there were issues.</p> <p>“She is a favourite of the Queen and I’m sure Her Majesty will be very upset by this as well.</p> <p>“It’s the last thing she needs after all her recent troubles and you get the feeling that the Royal Family is falling apart a little bit.”</p> <p>The split comes just two weeks after Peter sparked controversy after starring in a Chinese milk advertising campaign while being promoted as a “British royal”.</p> <p>Those close to the couple are worried that Autumn might want to head back to her homeland Canada after the split.</p> <p>“What worries some of us is that Autumn may want to go back to Canada,” one friend said.</p> <p>“Maybe she has been influenced by Harry and Meghan’s departure. Perhaps she thought if that can happen then I can leave as well? That might be unfair on her but you have to consider it."</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8cCsLQHEo1/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8cCsLQHEo1/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by ModernRoyalEra (@modernroyalera)</a> on Feb 11, 2020 at 11:22am PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>A senior royal insider said that the Queen must be “crestfallen” by the news.</p> <p>“The Queen must wonder what she has done to deserve this.</p> <p>“Peter Phillips has always been a favourite of hers and Prince Philip and she will be crestfallen by this, especially on top of all the other bad news.</p> <p>“It makes you wonder what’s going to happen next.”</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="post-action-bar-component-wrapper"> <div class="post-actions-component"> <div class="upper-row"></div> </div> </div>

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Winter crops to plant in autumn

<p>The cool autumn weather provides ideal working conditions for gardening. </p> <p>The soil is still warm for planting and the time is right to grow vegies to eat in the coming months. All you need to produce a good crop is a sunny, sheltered position. </p> <p>Before planting, it’s important to add manure or compost to your soil. This will keep it in good shape and help your vegetables thrive. </p> <p>Fork the manure or compost into the soil and give it a good rake, making sure it’s smooth and crumbly, then water well. </p> <p>Mulch around the vegies to reduce evaporation and prevent weeds using lucerne hay, sugar cane or pea straw. </p> <p><strong>TIP:</strong> You can grow climbing peas and spring onions in containers, using a premium potting mix. </p> <p><strong>1. Peas</strong></p> <p>In addition to tasting terrific, peas are full of nutrients and are high in fibre. </p> <p>They contain vitamins B1, B2, C and K and folic acid, plus are rich in magnesium, iron and potassium. </p> <p>If your children are reluctant to eat store-bought peas, encourage them to grow their own and eat them raw. The pod and the peas of snow peas and sugar snaps can be eaten. </p> <p>You can also grow dwarf or climbing peas, which can be cultivated on a teepee, a paling fence or on a frame made from upright timber posts covered in chicken wire.</p> <p><strong><u>SOW</u></strong> peas now and throughout winter. In very cold areas, frost will kill the flowers, so sow in late winter. Dampen the soil with water the day before sowing and keep it damp.</p> <p>Sow the seeds directly where they are to grow, making a furrow twice as deep as needed and scatter plant food along the base. Cover this with soil so it won’t burn the seeds, then plant the peas on top. </p> <p><strong><u>WATER</u></strong> regularly once the seeds have germinated. </p> <p><strong><u>FEED</u></strong> fortnightly with a soluble plant food when flowers first appear. </p> <p><strong><u>HARVEST</u></strong> every few days to keep the plants flowering for longer.  </p> <p><strong>In the kitchen </strong></p> <ul> <li>Fresh peas marry well with pumpkin in a risotto. </li> <li>Toss fresh peas, fresh herbs, red onion, olive oil and goat’s cheese through your favourite pasta for a great taste. </li> <li>Lightly stir-fry snow peas with garlic and ginger, season with sesame oil and soy sauce and top with sesame seeds. </li> <li>Make a tasty soup for lunch with fresh peas and mint.</li> </ul> <p><strong>2. Spring onion </strong></p> <p>Also called green onions or scallions, spring onions are among the oldest and most widely used ingredients in Chinese cooking. </p> <p>Really just immature onions that haven’t yet made bulbs, spring onions are harvested for their green shoots. </p> <p><strong><u>SOW SEEDS</u></strong> in well-drained soil or in pots directly where they are to grow. You can also plant seedlings, making sowings every 4-6 weeks.</p> <p><strong><u>WATER</u></strong> regularly for quick growth. </p> <p><strong><u>FEED</u></strong> with a soluble food such as Powerfeed to improve plant health. </p> <p><strong><u>HARVEST</u></strong> about 8-12 weeks after planting. Simply pull up the spring onions as required and use fresh. </p> <p><strong>In the kitchen </strong></p> <ul> <li>Stir-fry spring onions, scallops, green beans and ginger in a wok, then season with soy sauce. </li> <li>Combine spring onions, goat’s cheese and mushrooms to make a delicious quiche or tart.</li> <li>Lightly sauté asparagus and spring onions, place on toast, top with Gruyère or Swiss cheese and pop under the grill. </li> <li>Thinly slice potatoes in a baking tray, add spring onions, cover with cream and cook slowly in the oven on a medium heat. </li> </ul> <p><strong>3. Broccoli </strong></p> <p>An excellent cool-season vegetable, broccoli contains no fat and is full of fibre. It is also a good source of folic acid and high in vitamin C. </p> <p>Researchers have found that the star component in broccoli is the phytochemical called sulforaphane, which plays a major role in helping to prevent cancer. </p> <p>You can choose from large-headed varieties or smaller sprouting varieties such as broccolini. </p> <p><strong><u>SOW </u></strong>seeds now or buy seedlings. Plant seedlings in cold areas. </p> <p><strong><u>WATER</u></strong> regularly to encourage quick and healthy growth.</p> <p><strong><u>FEED</u></strong> by adding well-rotted compost or manure to the soil before planting. Broccoli prefers a soil with a pH above 6.5, so dig in lime or dolomite as well. </p> <p>When the plants have reached a height of about 200mm, give them regular applications of a soluble plant food for vegetables.</p> <p><strong><u>HARVEST</u></strong> by cutting the centre head of broccoli first when it is tightly packed and before the individual flower buds have started to open. </p> <p>Take about 100mm of the main stem, making the cut on a slant to prevent water accumulating in the stem and causing rot. New shoots will soon grow.</p> <p><strong>In the kitchen </strong></p> <ul> <li>Make soup using broccoli, spinach and potatoes. </li> <li>Combine broccoli and blue vein cheese for a tasty quiche. </li> <li>Stir-fry broccoli with beef and ginger and season with soy sauce.</li> <li>Create a pasta sauce with tomatoes, broccoli and garlic.</li> </ul> <p><strong>4. Broad beans </strong></p> <p>One of the oldest crops still under cultivation, broad beans have been grown by humans for many centuries. </p> <p>According to Roger Phillips and Martyn Rix in their book Vegetables, evidence of cultivation has been found in Egypt dating from about 1800BC. These primitive varieties of the crop had small black seeds. </p> <p><strong><u>SOW</u></strong> seeds directly where they are to grow. If sown in deep, damp soil, extra water shouldn’t be needed until the seedlings emerge in about 10 14 days. The best method of sowing them in a vegetable garden is in double rows about 250mm apart, with stakes at the end of each row supported by twine. </p> <p><strong><u>WATER</u></strong> regularly once the seeds have started germinating.</p> <p><strong><u>FEED </u></strong>as they grow with a soluble plant food for fruit and vegetables. Avoid using any fertilisers high in nitrogen, as the plants will produce lots of leaf growth but few flowers.</p> <p><strong><u>HARVEST </u></strong>the beans when immature and eat whole, as with French beans. Or you can allow them to mature and then remove the bean from the pod. To remove the outer husks, soak the hard grey beans in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then pop the cooked green beans out from inside. Otherwise, you can simply cook and eat the beans, husk and all.</p> <p><strong>5. Leeks </strong></p> <p>The national floral emblem of Wales, leeks make a flavoursome addition to lots of dishes. </p> <p>They’re also used as an herbal remedy for respiratory congestion and slow digestion, and as a diuretic. </p> <p>If you’re short on space in the vegetable patch, their strap-like leaves look good in flowerbeds. </p> <p>SOW seeds now in seed trays, or plant seedlings. The best way to grow leeks is to make a 200mm deep trench and position the seedlings in the base. Cover with a little soil and slowly fill in the trench as the seedlings grow to blanch the stems. </p> <p><strong><u>WATER</u></strong> regularly to encourage growth.</p> <p><strong><u>FEED</u></strong> fortnightly with a fertiliser high in nitrogen to promote rapid growth and produce plump, tender stems. </p> <p><strong><u>HARVEST </u></strong>as baby leeks or wait until the stems are about 20mm thick. If young plants have formed, they can be separated and replanted. </p> <p><strong>In the kitchen</strong></p> <ul> <li>Steam baby leeks and toss with olive oil and parmesan to serve as a side dish.</li> <li>Drizzle olive oil over tomatoes, thinly sliced potatoes and baby leeks. Add thyme and slow-bake.  </li> <li>Pan-fry prawns with asparagus and baby leeks. </li> <li>Make leek and potato soup and season with thyme or parsley.</li> </ul> <p><strong>6. Globe artichokes </strong></p> <p>A Mediterranean native belonging to the thistle family, the globe artichoke is unusual among vegetables because it’s the immature flowers of the plant that are cooked and eaten. </p> <p>The Greeks and Romans tended to consider globe artichokes a delicacy and they were introduced to England sometime around the 16th century. </p> <p>They soon became a favourite of Henry VIII, possibly because they were thought to be an aphrodisiac. </p> <p><strong><u>SOW </u></strong>seeds in spring or buy seedlings or suckers from nurseries in autumn and winter. </p> <p><strong><u>WATER </u></strong>regularly especially during spring and summer. </p> <p><strong><u>FEED</u></strong> with compost or well-rotted manure in early spring.</p> <p><strong><u>HARVEST</u></strong> the buds when the bracts are tightly closed, and the bud is about 75mm across. Once the flower begins to open, artichokes are inedible. When all the buds have been harvested, cut back the flower stalk.</p> <p><strong>In the kitchen </strong></p> <ul> <li>Slice about 150mm off the top of the artichoke and steam or boil for about 25-45 minutes or until the outer bracts can easily be pulled off. Serve hot or cold. </li> <li>Try pasta with artichoke hearts, mushrooms and fresh crabmeat. </li> <li>Chop artichoke hearts roughly, add your favourite mayonnaise and sour cream, then season with chopped fresh tarragon for a yummy dip. </li> </ul> <p><strong>7. Eating an artichoke </strong></p> <p>If you’ve never eaten an artichoke, it can look like a very daunting task. But this bud is delicious, and it is well worth making the effort. </p> <p>Hot artichokes are great served with a dip, your favourite mayonnaise or simply melted butter.</p> <p><strong><u>REMOVE </u></strong>an outer bract from the cooked artichoke, then dip the base of the bract in the mayonnaise, melted butter or dip of your choice. </p> <p><strong><u>HOLD</u></strong> the other end of the bract, place it in your mouth and pull it through your teeth to remove the edible soft part at the base of the bract.</p> <p>Continue until all the bracts have been removed and only the base remains.</p> <p><strong><u>CUT </u></strong>away the inedible fuzzy part, called the choke, which covers the artichoke heart.  Cut the heart into pieces and eat with your favourite dip.</p> <p><em>Written by Cheryl Maddocks. Republished with permission of </em><a href="http://www.handyman.net.au/winter-crops-plant-autumn"><em>Handyman Australia</em></a><em>.</em></p>

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10 best songs to get you in the mood for autumn

<p>As much as we love long, balmy summer days filled with trips to the beach and barbecues with family and friends, we have to say, we can’t wait for autumn.</p> <p>Aside from the beautiful colours of the changing leaves, the cooler days mean we can turn off the air con, cuddle up with a tea and a good book and maybe start enjoying those delicious warm soups and hearty stews.</p> <p>So to celebrate the return of our favourite season, we’ve created the ultimate autumn playlist filled with some of the best songs to get you in the mood for this magical time of year.</p> <p><strong>1. “Autumn in New York” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/50zL8TnMBN8" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><strong>2. “Harvest Moon” by Neil Young</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n2MtEsrcTTs" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><strong>3. “Autumn Almanac” by The Kinks</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p_u0gn1I8xQ" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><strong>4. “Leaves That Are Green” by Simon &amp; Garfunkel</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WwOgXWOX-iE" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><strong>5. “Autumn Leaves” by Eva Cassidy</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xXBNlApwh0c" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><strong>6. “Forever Autumn” by Justin Hayward</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mpzOIDo8DFU" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><strong>7. “Autumn Serenade” by John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HsgQCLih118" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><strong>8. “The Last Days of Summer” by The Cure</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iNiUG33rSyY" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><strong>9. “October” by U2</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kqdJ6CsXt4Y" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p> <p><strong>10. “Autumn Leaves” by Ed Sheeran</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6n_CU3yt31o" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /></strong></p>

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Escape to the Wairarapa this autumn

<p><em>For those who enjoy cruising and tasting premium wine, then cycling the vines around Martinborough is a must-do. Image credit: Mike Heydon/JET Productions</em></p> <p>Golden landscapes, a late harvest, crisp weather and fewer crowds make autumn a terrific time to explore the Wairarapa, a region renowned for its premium vineyards, olive groves, wild coastlines and cafes, restaurants and boutique shopping. Being only one hour’s drive or train ride from Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, makes Wairarapa the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. We’ve come up with six memorable experiences in the Wairarapa this autumn.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> <img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/34529/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (132)"/></p> <p><em>There’s nothing like autumn in the Wairarapa. Hues of gold, amber and red accentuate the beauty of this region making it a wonderful time to go exploring with the grandkids. Image credit: Mike Heydon/JET Productions.</em></p> <p><a href="http://www.nzballoons.co.nz" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wairarapa Balloon Festival</span></strong></a> </p> <p>Hues of gold, amber and red will provide the perfect backdrop for hot air balloonists at Easter as the Wairarapa prepares to host its annual Balloon Festival from April 13 to 17 2017.</p> <p>This year two special shape balloons – an Alien Rocket balloon, which comes from Canada and is 29m high and High Kitty, a 33metre tall kitten from Texas, USA – will join 24 other hot air balloons for the festival held right throughout the region.</p> <p>Alien Rocket pilot, Canadian Alain Bard, who designed and built the eye-catching balloon is excited to visit New Zealand.</p> <p>“I've travelled to over 40 countries so far,” he says, “I am really looking forward to flying the Alien Rocket over the Wairarapa and hopefully inspiring a new generation of kids to find out more about space, astronomy and learn about our fragile existence on this planet”.</p> <p>The Festival programme feature five days of balloon lift-offs, loads of family-fun and entertainment. Highlights include a ‘Dawn Patrol’ when the balloons will lift off in the dark before sunrise and the Night Glow where, weather depending, tethered balloons light up the night sky.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/34530/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (133)"/> </p> <p><em>An intriguing sight will be seen over Wairarapa skies this Easter – an Alien Rocket, which is one of 26 balloons taking part in the annual Wairarapa Balloon Festival.</em></p> <p><a href="http://www.wairarapanz.com" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Cycle the Vines</span> </strong></a>  </p> <p>For those who enjoy cruising and tasting premium wine, then cycling the vines around the pretty wine village of Martinborough is a must-do. Here, the roads are wide and flat and lined either side with vineyards, olive groves or farms while in between the parcels of land are colonial cottages or grand homesteads that are a nod to the town’s rural heritage.</p> <p>Grab a wine map from the Martinborough i-SITE Visitor Information Centre and hire a bike – whether it’s a single speed vineyard cruiser, a mountain-bike, trike, tandem or even a 4-6 seat, brightly covered quadri-cycle, the options are endless.</p> <p>The majority of the wineries are located within close proximity to each other and because many vineyards produce handcrafted wines, it means visitors have a good chance of meeting the wine-maker face to face and hearing their story first hand.</p> <p><a href="http://www.wharekauhau.co.nz/packages" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">A little bit of luxury</span></strong></a> </p> <p>There's always something exciting going on at Wharekauhau in south Wairarapa. This luxurious Edwardian style lodge, with incredible views over Palliser Bay, was where Prince William and Princess Kate stayed during their 2014 Royal Tour of New Zealand. The grand lodge and its private cottage suites are set in the magnificent rural surrounds of a 5000-acre farm estate. Guests can enjoy fine cuisine made from fresh local ingredients complemented with top New Zealand wines, a wide range of recreation and adventure activities onsite or just relax in the incredible surroundings. This autumn and winter the lodge is offering a series of themedpackages including incredible degustation meals cooked by NZ Chef of the Year Marc Soper. The packages include a duck shooters lunch and shoot; a Winter Solstice Retreat; a Bastille Weekend focusing on a country retreat with a French twist and the annual Louis Roederer Champagne event in September.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/34528/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (131)"/></p> <p><em>The stunning Wharekauhau Lodge in Wairarapa is the ultimate getaway.</em></p> <p><a href="http://www.thevintageaviator.co.nz" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Vintage Aviator Flying weekend</span></strong></a> </p> <p>The memory of World War One flight is being kept alive in the Wairarapa this autumn with The Vintage Aviator’s monthly flying weekends.</p> <p>Gene de Marco, general manager and chief pilot of The Vintage Aviator Ltd (TVAL), says part of the collection of rare WWI aircraft based at Masterton’s Hood Aerodrome will take to the skies the last weekend of each month in March and April 2017.They provide a great opportunity for the public to see the collection in the air, while allowing the pilots to practise operating these war machines. Outside of flying times, visitors will also be able to take a guided tour through TVAL hangar at Hood Aerodrome and learn the amazing military stories associated with each aircraft.</p> <p>“When we bring people through the hangar, we talk to them about the airplanes and it’s not always about the performance, how high they go, how fast they go or how long they stay up. It’s about the stories of these young men, young kids who flew a plane like this,” says Mr de Marco. “The war was fought 12 months out of the year and at tremendous altitude. Sometimes these airplanes climbed 15,000 to 20,000 feet and it’s bitterly cold up there. So everything from the leather flying gloves, the helmet, the goggles … we try to tell that story too.”</p> <p><a href="http://www.booktown.org.nz/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Booktown Featherston</span></strong></a> </p> <p>Those who are familiar with Clunes Booktown in Australia will be pleased to know New Zealand has its own Booktown too, held annually in the characterful south Wairarapa township of Featherston. This year’s festival, being held from 12 to 14 May celebrates everything to do with books, writers and reading. A full three-day programme includes a “fish and chip” supper with leading Kiwi writer Lloyd Jones; writing workshops; poetry readings; talks by leading authors and illustrators; theatre performances and a book fair including stalls with rare and second hand books. There are also events specifically for children.</p> <p><a href="http://www.wairarapanz.com/see-and-do/rimutaka-cycle-trail" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Rimutaka Cycle Trail</span></strong></a> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="500" height="334" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/34527/image-3_500x334.jpg" alt="Image 3 (5)"/></p> <p><em>The Rimutaka Cycle Trail begins in Wellington and weaves through river valleys and bush clad hill ranges before enter the Wairarapa valley taking riders past lakes, over farm land and along a dramatic coastline.</em></p> <p>The Rimutaka Cycle Trail is right on Wellington and Wairarapa’s doorstep and offers riders the perfect opportunity to mix riding with culture, cuisine and shopping.</p> <p>It’s the quintessential kiwi ride featuring all types of New Zealand landscape: a river valley, bush-clad mountains, lake-sides, farm land and a rugged coast.</p> <p>Beginning at Petone’s Foreshore, the 115km Trail heads north alongside the Hutt River on a well-defined cycle path, before heading through the Rimutaka Ranges via the historic railway route and enter the Wairarapa Valley at Cross Creek.</p> <p>Riders have a choice of turning left and following the 9km off-road limestone trail to Featherston where they can refuel and learn about the historic tunnels they’ve just ridden through at The Fell Locomotive Museum or they can turn right and head south, following the shore of Lake Wairarapa. The road weaves through rolling countryside, passed historic farms, many of which offer accommodation, and comes to Ocean Beach which has views across Cook Straight to the snow-capped mountains behind Kaikoura before weaving around the dramatic South Coast to the finish at Orongorongo. Here riders can be met by Green Jersey Cycle Tours who offer a range of guided or supported tours.</p> <p>One of the best aspects of this trail is its multiple access points meaning riders can tailor the journey to suit their needs and fitness levels.  It can be completed in one day or done over two to four days, allowing for side trips to the wine village of Martinborough and the pretty colonial township of Greytown.</p> <p><strong>How to get there:</strong></p> <p>The Wairarapa is located at the lower right-hand corner of New Zealandʼs North Island. It is only an hour’s drive or train ride north-east of Wellington, which has daily domestic and international flights; and just over an hour’s drive from Palmerston North’s domestic airport. Driving to the Wairarapa is easy, with The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail (SH2) weaving through pretty rural landscapes including vineyards, olive groves and beef, sheep and dairy farms. The region’s five townships are serviced by train, bus or shuttles and there is a wide variety of accommodation. For more information visit, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.wairarapanz.com/" target="_blank">www.wairarapanz.com</a></strong></span>. </p>

Domestic Travel

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Jobs you must do in your garden during autumn

<p>Autumn is just around the corner so it’s time to tidy up and rejuvenate your garden. The cooler weather makes it the perfect time to tackle tasks to ensure your garden continues to thrive through to spring.</p> <p><strong>Tidy-up</strong></p> <p>Take advantage of the cool autumn days to do some general tidy-up around the garden. Prune perennials, cut back climbers, trim shrubs and pull out weeds. </p> <p><strong>Clean-up the tools</strong></p> <p>Clean and sharpen hand tools. Wash gardening gloves. Sort through your products and get rid of anything that is past its used-by date. Make sure you don’t throw your chemicals in the bin though. Check with your local council for safe disposal options.</p> <p><strong>Start a compost heap</strong></p> <p>If you haven’t started on already then autumn is the perfect time to begin. The autumn leaves will soon be in plentiful supply and are a good source of organic matter for your heap.</p> <p><strong>Rearrange plants</strong></p> <p>Autumn is the best time to transplant plants as the days are cooler but the soil is still warm from summer. Evergreen shrubs, perennials and clumping plants usually transplant easily but leave deciduous plants until winter. Keep an eye on the transplanted plants and give them a hand if they look like dry.</p> <p><strong>Aerate the lawn</strong></p> <p>Your lawn may need some TLC after summer. Soil aeration is as simple as plunging a garden fork as far as you can into the soil and moving it back and forth slightly. Do this all over the lawn. Loosening soil helps encourage deeper and stronger growth root and will allow water to penetrate when it rains. Do this for your garden beds as well.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/tips-for-growing-tomatoes/"><em>Top tips for growing tomatoes</em></a></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/10-ingenious-gardening-tricks/"><em>10 ingenious gardening tricks</em></a></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/container-gardening-mistakes/"><em>7 common container gardening mistakes to avoid</em></a></strong></span></p>

Home & Garden

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6 classic books to get you in the mood for autumn

<p>It’s hard to believe summer’s already over, but many of us are thankful for a drop in temperatures and an excuse to cosy up on the couch with a cup of tea and a good book. This autumn, you can’t go past the classics to get you in that warm and fuzzy mood. Here are our top picks for the season.</p> <p><strong>1. <em>The Great Gatsby</em> by F. Scott Fitzgerald</strong></p> <p>This iconic book uses the transition from summer to autumn as a way to symbolise the love triangle between the novel’s characters. Fitzgerald’s depiction of extravagant New York parties transports the reader to a completely new world. “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.”</p> <p><strong>2. The <em>Harry Potter</em> series by J. K. Rowling</strong></p> <p>What began as a children’s classic has become a legend beloved by those of all ages. Each novel in the magical series kicks off at the beginning of autumn, which for the students of Hogwarts represents the start of a new school year and, for Harry and his friends, a new adventure. With 7 books to read, <em>Harry Potter</em> will keep you entertained for weeks.</p> <p><strong>3. <em>Murder on the Orient Express</em> by Agatha Christie</strong></p> <p>I can hardly think of a better book to read on a cold, rainy night. Agatha Christie’s classic mystery novel takes place on a train stuck in a blustery snow storm. Detective Hercule Poirot must figure out who among the passengers is responsible for the murder of another. This book will keep you guessing until the very end.</p> <p><strong>4. <em>Wuthering Heights</em> by Emily Brontë</strong></p> <p>Set on the moors of southern England, Emily Brontë’s classic novel uses the fierce, stormy moors to illustrate the relationships between the characters. “My love for Linton is like the foliage in the woods. Time will change it, I'm well aware, as winter changes the trees.” Brontë’s emotive descriptions will make you feel as though you’re in another time.</p> <p><strong>5. <em>Pet Sematary</em> by Stephen King</strong></p> <p>If you’re more into chills and thrills, Stephen King’s horror classic will definitely satisfy your hunger. Not for the faint of heart, <em>Pet Sematary</em> follows a young family settling into their new small-town home. Beyond their house, generations of children have gone to bury their beloved pets, but this “sematary” holds a dark and terrible secret.</p> <p><strong>6. <em>Anne of Green Gables</em> by L. M. Montgomery</strong></p> <p>Anne, a young orphan is adopted by a new family and we follow her as she settles into her new life and home on Canada’s Prince Edward Island. Montgomery’s portrait of the scenery at Green Gables is truly heart-warming, making this the perfect autumn novel. “The birches in the hollow turned as golden as sunshine and the maples behind the orchard were royal crimson.”</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/books/2016/03/best-crime-books/"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">5 crime books you need to read</span></strong></em></a></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/books/2016/03/best-selling-books-of-all-time/"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Best selling books of all time</span></strong></em></a></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/books/2016/03/celebrities-who-have-written-books/"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">7 celebrities that you didn’t know have written a book</span></strong></em></a></p>

Books

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How to use autumn leaves in the garden

<p><strong><em>Instead of binning the fallen leaves you’ve raked up in your garden, Better Homes and Gardens’ resident landscaper, Jason Hodges, suggests a couple of great ideas to make those autumn leaves work for your garden.</em></strong></p> <p>For some, autumn is a welcome change when the nights get cooler and the days shorter. For others, it’s just the beginning of cold weather and rugging-up until summer returns. The reasons are the same, but the attitude is different.</p> <p>It’s the same in the garden. Some people see autumn leaves on the ground and curse them; others see opportunity, free soil, mulch, compost and fun.</p> <p>It’s a weekly ritual for most gardeners to rake up the fallen leaves, repeated week after week until spring comes around again.</p> <p>But don’t bin them, you can make them work for your garden. It’s easier than taking the bin out, costs nothing and the rewards for you, your garden and the environment are many.</p> <p>Autumn leaves, especially those that have been chopped and shredded by your mower, are an amazing base for your compost bin. You can have as much as 70 per cent dry leaves in your compost and the grass you pick up with it could be the other 30 per cent.</p> <p>Leaves are a great source of carbon, which is vital for a successful compost. Just pile it up now and turn it over every week or so and come spring you’ll have sweet compost to mix into your garden that’s weed- free and full of nutrients.</p> <p>If you don’t have a compost system you can simply rake them into the garden and cover them with garden soil. I like doing this with the help of blood and bone or Dynamic Lifter. It’s a great way to improve large amounts of garden for very little money, and what I recommend to those who have heavy clay soils or lots of rubble in the garden.</p> <p>The leaves break down and in less than a year you will have worms and soil that would make a good veggie patch or somewhere for annuals.</p> <p>If you can shred the leaves so they don’t blow around they make great mulch; a layer of around 50 to 70 millimetres will reduce temperature change in the soil, help retain moisture and reduce weeds. They are already brown, so will not draw nitrogen from the soil like fresh grass clippings.</p> <p>The leaf litter is one of my favourite mulches as it breaks down and improves the soil. Worms love munching on it and you end up with a lighter, more fertile soil that is easier to work with.</p> <p>It’s even worth keeping some in bags dry for later in the year. When spring and summer are here it’s hard to find enough dry, brown matter to add to the compost. Having some stashed away to add to the pile when everything is green and growing is a master stroke.</p> <p>Keeping your compost growing isn’t as silly as it sounds. You can always rake leaves up and cover the kids with them, too.</p> <p>Autumn leaves are a gift from nature. Whether you curse them and put them in the bin, or use them to improve your garden, like death and taxes you can’t a void them. Once you’ve realised the added value of fallen leaves you’ll be coveting those of your neighbours.</p> <p><em>Written by Jason Hodges. First appeared on <a href="http://www.domain.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Domain.com.au.</span></a></em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/tips-for-growing-tomatoes/"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Top tips for growing tomatoes</span></strong></em></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/10-ingenious-gardening-tricks/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">10 ingenious gardening tricks</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/container-gardening-mistakes/"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">7 common container gardening mistakes to avoid</span></strong></em></a></p>

Home & Garden

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Expert gardening tips for autumn

<p>Yates gardening expert, Angie Thomas, says autumn is the new spring for gardening. To help you with your gardening endeavours this autumn, Angie shares her top tips for what to do and what to grow in the garden.</p> <p>Autumn is a brilliant time to get out into the garden as temperatures are milder making it more comfortable for both plants and gardeners. Soil is still warm enough for root growth, so if plants have enough nutrients and water they will thrive this season. There’s lots of wonderful things for green (and not so green) fingers to do in autumn, including growing delicious herbs and vegies, planting new trees and shrubs and preparing for winter and spring, whether you have the largest space or just a few pots.</p> <ul> <li>Cool season vegies like baby leaf spinach, silverbeet, baby beetroot, onions, broad beans, spring onions, kale, lettuce and cauliflower are ideal to plant now.</li> <li>Fragrant and versatile herbs including coriander, rocket, Italian parsley and chives will thrive and can be used in a variety of dishes including salads, stir fries and soups. New shrubs and trees in autumn shades of red and orange look beautiful in the garden and can be purchased from your local nursery.</li> <li>Plant containers and hanging baskets with flowers like winter viola, pansies, lobelia, carnations, sweet peas, Flanders red poppy, alyssum and calendula to brighten up outdoor spaces. </li> <li>Organise garden beds for planting spring flowering bulbs like hyacinths and daffodils and your vegie patch by enriching the soil with organic fertilisers.</li> <li>Soil is the engine room of the backyard and preparing it during autumn creates the best foundation for a beautiful, healthy garden. Yates Dynamic Lifter Organic Plant Food is ideal for enriching your soil as it increases water and nutrient retention, encourages and feeds earthworms and microorganisms as well as providing complete plant nutrition with organic slow release nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium for better root growth, stronger plants and more flowers and fruit.</li> <li>Dynamic Lifter can be mixed into a garden bed before planting, added to the bottom of a hole when establishing new trees and shrubs and combined with potting mix. It’s also perfect for creating a nutritious foundation before laying new turf.</li> <li>Ongoing feeding of your new plants is important to ensure continued health and productivity of the garden. Regular applications of Dynamic Lifter every six weeks will contribute to the wellbeing of your garden by providing plants with gentle, slow release organic nutrients.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><em><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/tips-for-growing-tomatoes/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Top tips for growing tomatoes</span></a></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/10-ingenious-gardening-tricks/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">10 ingenious gardening tricks</span></a></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/container-gardening-mistakes/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">7 common container gardening mistakes to avoid</span></a></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/02/how-to-create-a-hanging-basket/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> </span></a></strong></em></p>

Home & Garden

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10 things you should do in your garden in May

<p>With summer well behind us, it’s really time to get back into the garden and prepare for the winter months ahead. Here’s our autumn garden to-do list.</p> <ol> <li>Collect fallen autumn leaves for your compost bin.<br /><br /></li> <li>In cool or harsh climates, move cold-sensitive/fragile pot plants into sheltered positions.<br /><br /></li> <li>Plant new trees, shrubs, climbers, annuals and perennials.<br /><br /></li> <li>Divide overgrown perennial plants, collect seeds and prune those that have finished flowering.<br />  </li> <li>Trim evergreen shrubs that need tidying.<br />  </li> <li>If you’re planting spring bulbs, you better do it right now!<br /><br /></li> <li>In veggie beds, clear out any leftover summer veggies and enrich soil with compost and/or manure to replenish nutrients that have been stripped during harsh summer months. Replant with cool-season vegetables such as onions, garlic, shallots, spinach, broad beans and broccoli. <br /><br /></li> <li>Citrus trees need light pruning to remove any dead material and water shoots.<br /><br /></li> <li>Fertilise azaleas, camellias, rhododendrons, gardenias, magnolias, daphnes and pieris.<br /><br /></li> <li>Cooler months are an ideal time to give your lawn some TLC. A monthly dose of fertiliser during autumn will thicken up lawn and help turf in winter. Give it a deep watering for drier gardens every two weeks.</li> </ol> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://plantsplus.com.au/resource-centre/catalogues/" target="_blank">Check out the latest catalogue from Plants Plus here</a></span><em> for some great prices on some of these plants as well as more tips and inspiration for your garden.</em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/gardening/2015/04/companion-planting-guide/">The companion planting guide</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/gardening/2015/04/creative-garden-container-ideas/">10 creative garden container ideas you’ll love</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/gardening/2015/04/epsom-salt-in-garden/">8 great uses for Epsom salt in the garden</a></strong></em></span></p>

Home & Garden

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Best places in the world to experience autumn

<p>As autumn is now in full swing in New Zealand, our thoughts turn to crisp days and the riot of colour that the season brings. These are THE places that put on an unbeatable autumn show each year.</p> <p><strong>Kyoto, Japan</strong> <em>(pictured)</em></p> <p>Japan is best known for the cherry blossoms (called sakura) that bloom around the country in spring and locals even host special parties in prime viewing spots. But autumn is equally stunning and the historic city of Kyoto is one of the best places in the country to see it. You also have a much better chance of catching these trees at their best – the autumn foliage lasts for around two months from October to December, while the cherry blossoms are at their best for only a week at most. Brightly coloured trees surround almost every shrine and temple in the city, but Tofuku-Ji Temple is one of the most popular viewing spots for its carpet of bright red maples.</p> <p><strong>Vermont, USA</strong></p> <p>Arguably the most famous foliage in the world, autumn in New England is characterised by an influx of “leaf peepers” driving the winding country roads in search of the most picturesque locations. In Vermont, you can climb (or take the elevator) to the top of the Battle Monument at Bennington to get a birds’ eye view over the region from almost 100 metres in the air. The change begins in September in the north of the state and gradually moves south. While not as flashy and vibrant as the peak season, late October is especially beautiful as the colours become more muted and subtle.</p> <p><strong>Orange, NSW</strong></p> <p>There’s a reason that Orange is known as the colour city. From April onwards the leafy country town bursts into a vivid display of reds, oranges and yellows under a bright blue sky. The roads are lined with numerous towering poplars that give even the narrowest country lane a feeling of grandeur. Autumn is also the season for the Orange Food Festival, so you can sample some of the region’s famous food and wine in between sightseeing.</p> <p><strong>Mount Huangshan, China</strong></p> <p>The name of this mountain in eastern China translates to Yellow Mountain, so you know it’s going to be good for colour. It’s been regarded as one of the most beautiful mountains in the country since the 16<sup>th</sup> century and appears frequently in art and literature. The richly coloured leaves from more than 1,650 types of plants make a striking contrast with lakes and waterfalls of clear blue, turquoise or green. On top of this, autumn is generally considered to be the best season to visit China for the combination of dryness and warmth.</p> <p><strong>Lapland, Finland</strong></p> <p>The name Lapland conjures up images of snow and ice (and possibly Santa), but during September the landscape explodes into “ruska”, the Finnish word for autumn leaf colour. Colours tend to be more muted here but offer a wider variety of hues with trees, conifers, berries and moss turning all shades of green, blue, auburn, red and yellow. Ruska is something of a melancholy experience for the Fins as they bid farewell to long summer days and prepare for the cold, dark winter that is on the way.</p> <p><strong>Westonbirt Arboretum, England</strong></p> <p>More than 15,000 individual plant specimens from 3,000 species can be found in just 600 acres in England’s national arboretum just outside of Bristol. Come autumn (around September) the Japanese maples, full moon maples, Chinese spindles and Persian ironwoods produce the most vibrant colours, though just about every plant in the forest has something to show. Look out for the katsura, a Japanese tree that gives off the aroma of fairy floss or burnt caramel alongside its autumn hues.</p> <p> </p>

International Travel