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Buzz Feed
6 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
29 Problem-Solving Beauty Products For Those Issues You Didn't Even Know Had Legit Solutions
Cult-favorite Brazilian Bum Bum body cream to tighten and smooth your skin with the help of caffeine-rich guarana, hydrating cupuacu butter, açaí oil, and coconut oil. This fast-absorbing formula allows your skin to indulge in a little pampering, leaving your skin soft and supple and smelling like a tropical paradise. A pore-clearing cleansing oil that visibly sucks out sebum from your pores and removes makeup residue and blackheads, leaving your skin looking clearer and feeling smoother. Reviewers of all skin types swear by it, including those with acne-prone skin (who say it doesn't cause breakouts)! A set of multipurpose dermaplaning razors for a quick and easy way to shape your brows and get rid of pesky peach fuzz. Not only will they leave your skin feeling silky smooth, but they're also perfect for prepping your face for flawless makeup application. L'Oréal's Voluminous Primer Mascara capable of instantly amping up your lashes without the hassle of expensive extensions or tricky falsies. This primer contains fibers to give your lashes extra length without making them feel stiff, and it goes on white, making it super easy to layer on your favorite mascara right after. Along with this top-rated Essence mascara that gives even more volume and length while also being smudge-proof, so you don't have to worry about looking like a hot mess by the end of the day. And the best part? Reviewers say this $5 mascara delivers the same (if not better) results as options from high-end brands like Too Faced and Benefit. An oddly satisfying Dermora exfoliant foot peel for those times you look down at your little piggies and think, "Dang, I need a miracle." You just slip on these booties and let the magic happen — but let me warn you, the peeling process can be a It's like watching a snake shed its skin for the next 5–7 days. But! Your feet will look SO much better with no more cracking, tough skin. Or a Mr. Pumice Ultimate Pumi Bar with two sides: a tough gritty side perfect for battling those calluses that just won't budge and a gentler side to smooth out your feet, leaving them feeling soft as a cloud. A collagen-coating hair treatment for transforming brittle, frizzy hair into a cascade of softness. This hair mask is infused with collagen and protein extracts — after applying to wet hair and sitting for only five minutes, your hair will be completely transformed. A bottle of Bondi Sands self-tanning foam (with over 27,000 5-star ratings!) that's like sunshine in a bottle, giving you a subtle and totally customizable tan without having to step a foot outside. Just pump directly onto a mitt and apply in long sweeping motions to smooth over your body. You can wash it off after an hour, or if you want a deeper color, you can leave it on for up to eight hours. A lightly tinted nail concealer here to cover up any yellowing or stains on your nails and coat them with a milky, luminous shade that'll look fresh and fabulous. A stick of Gold Bond Friction Defense since it's that time of year when it's sweltering hot and your sweaty legs are rubbing together, making a not-so-good combo. This soothing balm creates a barrier to help reduce friction and prevent irritation from skin-to-skin or skin-to-clothing contact. A pack of two dark spot corrector soap bars packed with collagen, retinol, and vitamin C, a powerful trio that can even out your skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, scars, and blemishes. It *also* contains turmeric, hyaluronic acid, shea butter and vitamin E to leave your skin feeling cleansed, revitalized, and oh-so-glowy. An eyebrow stencil kit, which comes with 30 self-adhesive stencils to help you nail that perfect brow shape. This kit is a total game changer, especially if you tend to go a bit overboard with plucking or feeling inspired by those TikTok eyebrow filters, but never quite getting it right. First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub — with the combined power of glycolic and lactic acids, your skin will be left feeling fresh and rejuvenated with a radiant glow. This product is typically used to help with keratosis pilaris (or "chicken skin"), but reviewers say it was also able to help with their body acne. Or an exfoliating scrub mitt made with viscose fiber that's rough enough to visibly lift dead skin away but also buffs and smoothes, leaving your skin velvety soft. Reviewers also use this mitt to help with ingrown hairs and to remove spray tan. A tea tree and peppermint remedy soap, a multi-tasking wonder that can tackle all sorts of skin issues, including dryness, acne, athlete's foot, and even ringworm. Plus, it helps kick body odors to the curb and leaves your skin feeling fresh and nourished all day. A Garnier leave-in conditioning cream that not only moisturizes your hair but also reduces breakage by penetrating deep into dry hair follicles and hydrating from the inside out with nourishing argan oil. The outcome? Less frizz, smoother texture, and healthier ends so you can extend your time between salon visits and save $$. Arnica Bruise Cream for all of my gravity-challenged people who can't seem to walk from point A to B without tripping or bumping into stuff. This gel helps to stimulate skin repair and reduce swelling whether you're recovering from a surgery or accidental injury, improving your overall skin tone and firmness. Now you can leave those purple souvenirs from your clumsy moments behind. A tube of Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later eyeshadow primer because you didn't spend a good chunk of your morning meticulously crafting the perfect cut crease eyeshadow look, only for it to morph into unintended "abstract art" by noon. This primer helps control the oil on your lids to make your makeup last all day while also enhancing the pigment, giving it that ✨ pop ✨. The Laneige glowy lip balm that must be bottled-up magic because it not only brings out an amazing high-shine finish but does so without that dreaded sticky feel. A creamy eyeshadow stick if you're just diving into the world of makeup and it feels a bit overwhelming. This little marvel puts the power of precision in your hands, allowing you to dictate exactly where and how much color you want. It also features a built-in smudger so you can craft that perfectly blended look without an MUA's skill set. A setting powder perfect for touching up your face throughout the day, keeping your makeup matte and your skin from becoming a greasy mess. Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 because my fellow melanin baddies need sunscreen too, and this one won't leave a chalky cast on the skin. This sunscreen is formulated with natural ingredients to blend into your skin leaving you protected and moisturized. A cult-favorite TruSkin vitamin C serum that's won over 98,000+ 5-star reviewers for working wonders left and right. This serum contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, aloe vera, and jojoba oil to help improve vibrance and reduce the appearance of dark sports, fine lines, and wrinkles, leaving you with a ✨ glowing ✨ complexion. Briogeo Curl Charisma Leave-In Defining Crème capable of giving you the soft, bouncy curls of your dreams without the dreaded crunchy texture other brands leave. This cream contains a blend of avocado oil, rice amino acids, quinoa extract, and tomato fruit ferment, all coming together to combat dryness, frizz, and humidity for hair types 2a–4c. Plus, a TikTok-famous Denman curly hair brush designed with sculpted nylon pins to handle knots and help shape those fabulous ringlets, giving your hair that defined look you've been trying to achieve. A tub of Hanalei Sugar Lip Scrub proving perfect lipstick application *is* possible, with a little prep. This secret weapon makes your lips a flawless canvas by gently exfoliating away any pesky dead skin or annoying flakes that just love to ruin your lip look. A pack of cold sore healing patches infused with hydrocolloid magic to create the ideal environment that not only speeds up your skin's healing process but also helps to ease any discomfort, minimize blistering, and even stop scabs in their tracks. The internet-famous Revlon oil-absorbing volcanic face roller if your skin creates more oil than a KFC. This roller removes excess shine from your face WITHOUT disturbing your makeup. It's also compact so you can keep one in your purse, car, office get the point.
South Wales Argus
3 days ago
- South Wales Argus
We stayed at the newly renovated Imperial Hotel, Tenby
The clifftop Imperial is a stunning listed building that has been a hotel for 120 years, opening in 1905. It closed as owners Shearings Hotels went into administration during lockdown, but bounced back strongly in the summer of 2021 as part of the Coast & Country Hotel Collection. (Image: Western Telegraph) Last year it was sold to Crest Hotels and since then has undergone an extensive renovation, reopening in April. (Image: Western Telegraph) The hotel now offers 52 refurbished bedrooms and the newly renovated Essence restaurant. (Image: Western Telegraph) The kids and I arrive on a sunny afternoon and head through the be-foliaged entrance way to reception where we are given a warm welcome. Our room is situated on the third floor at the front of the hotel and when we open the door all three of us gasp. The room is well-appointed, beautifully furnished and facing out to sea. (Image: Western Telegraph) Sweeping open the net curtains reveals an uninterrupted sea view over to Caldey Island and miles and miles of beautiful blue sea- it is stunning and truly good for the soul. The room is equipped with some big brand appliances, Smeg mini fridge with welcoming soft drinks inside, Smeg kettle and Dyson hairdryer. (Image: Western Telegraph) A sumptuously comfy double bed and sofa bed await. The ensuite is equipped in gleaming white with double sinks, bath and a shower, all spotless. (Image: Western Telegraph) Tenby-inspired art adorns the walls and we really like the beach-themed carpet. The room is probably better suited for a couple with a child rather than an adult and two kids. It is set up for two people in terms of cups and glasses and we draw straws over who will share the double! (Image: Western Telegraph) On the terrace below, the Tenby Rocks party is in full swing, a Saturday afternoon shenanigan featuring a DJ blasting out Ibiza classics, with cocktails on the terrace. When I pop back down to reception, the floorboards are reverberating under my feet and the older couple checking in look a bit concerned. The music dies down just after six and the girls in their miniskirts and bikini tops and boys in bucket hats head elsewhere. (Image: Western Telegraph) Once the terrace is restored to tranquillity, it is a truly lovely place to be. Nestled into the ruins of the old town walls with sweeping views over South Beach and out to sea, it's the perfect place for a drink in the sun. (Image: Western Telegraph) After settling in, we head to South Beach, a mere few minutes' walk away, and spend a delicious time in the sea. Back at the hotel, we scrub up for dinner in the hotel's Essence restaurant where we have a sea view table - it is a bit like being on a boat with nothing but the sea beyond us. (Image: Western Telegraph) For our starters we order the Tenby Bay Basket to share, two mini baskets of deep-fried deliciousness with a small salad and garlic and thermidor dips. There are cries of 'I'm obsessed' and 'can we have this every week' as we tuck into the baskets of lobster tail, crayfish, tiger prawns , mussels , shrimp and cockles. For my main, I order the herb-crusted sea trout with confit potatoes, samphire and a white wine and laverbread sauce. There are no herbs, but the sea trout (or sewin) is very nicely cooked, just on the verge of rare without being slimy. The salty samphire sets it off nicely but the laverbread in the sauce makes the whole dish a little too salty. I swipe the tween's uneaten salad and the pea shoots balance out the saltiness. (Image: Western Telegraph) The tween has an Imperial chicken burger with extra bacon and proper chips. He particularly likes the dressing and wolfs the lot down saying it's 'an orchestra of flavour in my mouth'. The teen orders pulled crab and lobster pappardelle, ribbons of pasta in a crab and lobster bisque topped with a lobster tail. She is a bit perplexed as to the absence of cherry tomatoes as they are on the menu, but enjoys the pasta and the succulent lobster flesh. (Image: Western Telegraph) We chose our puddings and wait for someone to take our order and wait …. and wait. The restaurant staff are also taking drinks out to a very busy terrace. Eventually I catch the barman's eye and he sends the manager over. We order a chocolate brownie bomb and a Cointreau and orange crème brûlée, only to be told the kitchen has closed. The dessert disaster is somewhat saved by two bowls of ice cream and an affogato. I would have liked to have tried that crème brûlée though. After dinner, we head out through Tenby's bustling evening streets and catch live music at a venue or two before making our way back. We are grateful for the air conditioning in the room and are lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves as the Buck moon reflects in the sea. (Image: Western Telegraph) The next morning, we are in the sea before breakfast, the tide is high but there is a scrap of sand at the beach by the Paragon with only a couple of people on it. The sand is golden, the water clear and I have that real 'on holiday' feeling. It's bliss. (Image: Western Telegraph) Back at the hotel and we find out that check out isn't at ten, as written on the guest info, but at eleven. What a relief! This gives us time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast. At Essence there is a buffet with cereal, yoghurt and fruit, pastries and toast as well as a hot menu to order from. (Image: Western Telegraph) After a delicious bowl of yogurt, raspberries and granola (why had I never thought of adding seeds and walnuts to mine at home? Yummy!), we order a full Welsh, scrambled eggs and salmon and eggs royale. (Image: Western Telegraph) All are perfectly-proportioned, not too big to overwhelm but big enough to set us up for the day. (Image: Western Telegraph) The Welsh breakfast is well presented and not at all greasy, there is no laverbread with it - which is a shame as I was looking forward to it - and the poached eggs, though looking gorgeous, were a bit overcooked. However, those are my only niggles and the salmon and eggs in both their breakfast manifestations were very well received. (Image: Western Telegraph) Once packed, the staff kindly say that we can leave our bags at the hotel and we divide a few more jolly hours between the beach and the terrace before heading home. So what of the Imperial? Well, it still needs a couple of tweaks in the kitchen and restaurant, but it's in a cracking spot with unparalleled views, it is child and dog-friendly, the staff are lovely and the rooms gorgeous. I'm still a bit unsure about the incongruity of the Ibiza party on the terrace, but it is only on a Saturday afternoon and finishes early enough. Maybe next time I will have to ditch the mummy dungarees, put on a mini skirt, order a cocktail and join in! (Image: Kayak PR) To stay at the Imperial Hotel, Tenby, visit linked above.
Buzz Feed
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
25 Impressive Target Beauty Items That Don't Cost A Lot
A luxe MCoBeauty Summer Daze Tinted Lip Oil for when you want that I woke up like this hydrated glow on your smackers. No pricey liner, no mirror or ring light? No problem. It's the easiest way to fake effort while still looking and feeling fancy. Promising review: "Love this! So smooth on the lips and very hydrating. Nice little tint of color. Really impressed with it." —Abby Price: $8.99 (available in four colors) An Essence mini eyeshadow palette that costs less than your daily coffee order but seriously delivers on pigment, blendability, and glam vibes. How's *that* for an instant energy boost? Promising review: "Love this palette of eyeshadow. My favorite colors all in one palette. So happy." —Mama22Price: $3.99 (available in four color combos) Or a single ColourPop eyeshadow if you don't want to splurge on a full palette (or just don't need or desire every single color they come with) and would rather carefully select your fave shades and colors individually. These are extremely blendable *and* highly pigmented without you paying top-shelf price. Promising review: "Talk about sparkle! This formula is so unique. There's a soft wash of color mixed with flecks of glitter, and it's stunning on the eyes." —Target reviewerPrice: $7 (available in six colors) A Native hair mask as affordable as it is effective and easy as pie to use: simply let it sit in wet hair for 3–5 minutes, then wash it out and enjoy strands so soft and smooth, you'll wonder if you've just stepped out of a hair commercial (wind machine sadly sold separately). Promising review: "I've always used/tried different hair masks and nothing has ever stuck out to me. This mask makes my hair super soft and shiny. My hair has a healthy feel/glow! I'm already on my second bottle and I hope they carry this forever." —sammyn Price: $10.79 A brilliantly affordable Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 made by women of color to protect your skin from sun damage while adding much-needed moisture. Bonus: it won't leave an annoying white residue behind as it dries completely clear. Promising review: "Awesome product that doesn't break my face out, as all others have — including the so-called gentle brands. It also works better at protecting better than the overly priced brands." —Chanchan75Price: $19.59 A glittery gold Essie nail polish because who needs jewelry when your nails sparkle like this? Perfect for a night out, a work soirée, or just adding a little extra shine to your Tuesday... pop it on by itself or over your fave color for instant magic. No expensive manicurist needed. 💅✨ Promising review: "I used it over a gold polish and it looked great! The glitter made my nails pop!" —JlowderPrice: $10.49 An alcohol-free and unscented Thayers facial toner, which truly sets the *tone* for great, reasonably priced skincare. Reviewers herald it as an absolute lifesaver for dry, stressed-out skin, as it leaves your face hydrated, refreshed, and ready to take on the world (or at least the next step of your routine). Promising review: "This toner has been a game-changer for my skincare routine! I love that it's gentle on my skin yet still effectively removes impurities and balances my complexion. Since it's alcohol-free, it doesn't dry out my skin or cause any irritation, which is a big plus. The unscented formula is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin or those who prefer a more neutral experience. I've noticed my skin feels smoother, hydrated, and refreshed after each use. The packaging is simple, easy to use, and a little goes a long way. This toner has quickly become a staple in my daily skincare regimen, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a gentle, non-drying toner." —A complete set Price: $11.49 (also available in rose petal, lavender, and cucumber scents) A ColourPop highlighter stick so you can get that vacation level glow without dropping vacation level prices. Creamy and compact enough to live in your bag, it's the kind of glow-up that goes wherever you do. Promising review: "This was a great affordable option. I liked that it blended nicely and was creamy. The highlight stayed in place nicely and wore great through the day. Buildable to get your desired effect. I liked the ease of application due to the stick formulation. I like the color/tone of this highlight (from a highlight addict!)" —JulandthepPrice: $10 (available in two colors) An E.l.f. face sponge for super smooth liquid and cream makeup application. This lil' powerhouse is essential for everyone's makeup tool kit, as it blends to absolute perfection with no streaking or need for a blending brush. Just be sure to clean it regularly. Promising review: "Amazing!! My favorite makeup sponge to buy. Perfect sponge for a cheap price." —ErinPrice: $6 A hydrating Essie roll-on cuticle oil that smells like fresh apricots and feels like a mini spa treatment for your nails. Swipe it on, let it soak in, and enjoy hands that look like you just stepped out of an expensive salon — no appointment necessary. Promising review: "Works great. Easy to put on and smells great, too." —CnelPrice: $18.29 A pack of Neutrogena makeup-removing wipes to prevent mascara stains and makeup streaks from turning your pillowcase into a piece of modern art by morning. These are gentle on your skin, so you don't have to worry about them drying it or causing irritation. Promising review: "Neutrogena face wipes are great for gently removing eye makeup. I also like how cool and smooth they feel in your face as a 'wake up' in the morning." —RozziPrice: $2.19+ (available in three sizes) A nourishing Ogx anti-breakage leave-in serum that's like a protective shield for your hair because no one has time for frizz, am I right? This little bottle of magic smoothes, strengthens, and gives strands the kind of shine that'll have everyone asking if you've been using some kind of magic hair potion. Promising review: "This product has a long-lasting smell (a great coconut smell) and leaves my hair soft and moisturized! My hair is much shinier, softer, stronger, and hydrated. My hair is straight-wavy and I love it. It's also super affordable compared to other products!! This is a yes!" —lillyPrice: $10.19 A Maybelline mascara featuring a ~super flexible~ wand and sensational lash flare effect that'll leave your lashes feeling soft and conditioned in addition to looking voluminous and absolutely wow-worthy, all without giving your wallet a workout because, yes, this glam is totally budget-friendly. Promising review: "I got this mascara because it caught my eye, and it did not disappoint! It doesn't leave my lashes clumpy, but it gives them definition and length. Also, my curl lasts all day!! I will definitely keep purchasing!" —OhPrice: $11.89 (available in several styles) A pack of satin sleep scrunchies to wear while you snooze so your locks can rest and refresh without tangling. They're low-effort, affordable, 100% fabulous, and great for ALL hair types, so feel free to gift 'em to everyone you know with long hair. Promising review: "Love these! Purchased twice (once for myself and once as a gift) and they are perfect for both thick and thin hair! Holds my super thick hair without pulling!" —Eld14Price: $9.79 for a pack of five (available in three colors) A Jergens cherry almond moisturizer *cherry picked* for ultimate softness (and its deliciously low price tag). I mean, truly the almond joy your skin's been craving: rich, silky, and nut-urally irresistible. 🍒 Promising review: "This has always been my favorite lotion. Love how it smells and leaves my skin feeling soft." —Caligirl73Price: $5.69+ (available in three sizes) A Revlon kiss balm because when it comes to preventing and treating my chapped lips for cheap, NOTHING comes close to this miraculous little balm that also boasts SPF 20. Promising review: "Love this stuff! Perfect for keeping your lips smooth." —HPrice: $5.59 (available in five colors and flavors) A portable Versed bronzer stick that blends out in seconds and gives you that sun-kissed glow without you needing a single brush (or a minute spent in front of a UV ray). It's perfect for a quick makeup routine that's as chill as your fave iced coffee order. Price: $14.99 (available in three shades) A Kristen Ess moisturizing shampoo to give dry strands the tall glass of water they've been begging for. This stuff is nourishing and budget-friendly enough to make luxe hair care part of your everyday routine. Promising review: "This is a GREAT shampoo/conditioner combo!!!! I was really nervous to go back to drugstore after falling in love with Dae products, but this works just as well as the expensive stuff for half the price!!! My hair feels so soft and this has a nice smell that lasts!! I will be repurchasing!! Not to mention gorgeous packaging!!" —KayleePrice: $5.99+ (available in three sizes) A jar of Aquaphor healing ointment that's basically the MVP of your affordable skincare stash, as it's soothing, multi-tasking, and always there to save the day (or your lips, cuticles, elbows… you name it). Promising review: "Aquaphor is great for dry skin during the fall and winter. A little goes a long way. It's not like lotion; it's more concentrated and does a better job than just lotion." —LuluPrice: $5.49+ (available in two sizes) A Garnier micellar water so efficient, it melts off every last bit of makeup (waterproof mascara included) without leaving your skin feeling tight or thirsty. It only removes the bad stuff, making it a dry-skin dream. And the best part? It's gentle on your face and your wallet. Promising review: "Very effective in deep cleaning and removing makeup, including mascara." —jrPrice: $4.99+ (available in three sizes) An Odele leave-in detangling tonic for a lightweight spray that tackles tangles, frizz, and knots with zero effort, leaving you with smooth, shiny strands and a whole lot of money saved on splurging on pricier products. Promising review: "I love how this product makes my hair feel after allowing it to dry, then flat ironing it or curling it. I use it right after towel-drying my hair. I start at the ends of my hair, then the root. I have thick, frizzy, wavy hair. This works wonders." —The taste was just rightPrice: $12.99 The Doux Mousse Def Texture Foam that gives your hair that effortless, just-woke-up-like-this volume and texture. Whether you're aiming for waves or a tousled, full-bodied look, this mousse is your secret weapon. Bonus? It doesn't leave your hair crunchy. Just touchable, soft perfection. Promising review: "I've been using this for a while now. The ONLY product that I've ever used that detangles, moisturizes and defines my curls. It is 100% consistent. I can't even bring myself to buy another product for my curls. I have mixed hair 3c curls. Thick and coarse." —SDgirl88Price: $15.99 An E.l.f. waterproof liquid eyeliner pen because precision this sharp shouldn't cost an arm and a leg (or an eye, to be more pun specific). Whether you're going for a subtle flick or a don't-mess-with-me wing, this pen gives you FULL CONTROL over your cat-eye destiny. Promising review: "I've used liquid eyeliner for winged eyes almost daily for the past 15 years. I've used everything from the most expensive to the cheapest, and this has to be the best eyeliner I've ever purchased. Stays perfectly unless you rub your eyes often, then, it can definitely start to come off. Survives most crying sessions, and it's super black and opaque and never ever dries out. I've repurchased 50 x over and will continue to do so because even the highest-end eyeliners don't compare!" —catPrice: $8 A Wet n Wild soft blur matte lipstick that glides on smoother than your favorite Oscar-winning movie plot twist, serving up a dreamy, soft-focus finish without drying out your lips... all without costing as much as a red carpet-worthy outfit, of course. Promising review: "While the shade I bought isn't for me, I love this formula! This is a great creamy matte lipstick with good pigment that doesn't accentuate the dry spots on my lips. And while it's a matte finish, it's not drying at all. I also appreciate the light, sweet vanilla/sugary scent. I've already ordered two other shades for delivery. And for the price? *Chef's Kiss!*" —SjashbyPrice: $4.79 (available in four shades) And a Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine hairspray to leave your strands so smooth and frizz free, even humidity will be like, "Wait, what just happened?" No spend-y salon appointment necessary. Promising review: "I love this hairspray! I think it works really well to keep my hair in place without making it sticky, crunchy, or hard. It smells amazing and is a great finishing spray for all of my hairstyles. It definitely keeps my curls in place while still leaving them flexible and soft." —Larkspur37Price: $7.49
Western Telegraph
4 days ago
- Western Telegraph
We stayed at the newly renovated Imperial Hotel, Tenby
The clifftop Imperial is a stunning listed building that has been a hotel for 120 years, opening in 1905. It closed as owners Shearings Hotels went into administration during lockdown, but bounced back strongly in the summer of 2021 as part of the Coast & Country Hotel Collection. (Image: Western Telegraph) Last year it was sold to Crest Hotels and since then has undergone an extensive renovation, reopening in April. (Image: Western Telegraph) The hotel now offers 52 refurbished bedrooms and the newly renovated Essence restaurant. (Image: Western Telegraph) The kids and I arrive on a sunny afternoon and head through the be-foliaged entrance way to reception where we are given a warm welcome. Our room is situated on the third floor at the front of the hotel and when we open the door all three of us gasp. The room is well-appointed, beautifully furnished and facing out to sea. (Image: Western Telegraph) Sweeping open the net curtains reveals an uninterrupted sea view over to Caldey Island and miles and miles of beautiful blue sea- it is stunning and truly good for the soul. The room is equipped with some big brand appliances, Smeg mini fridge with welcoming soft drinks inside, Smeg kettle and Dyson hairdryer. (Image: Western Telegraph) A sumptuously comfy double bed and sofa bed await. The ensuite is equipped in gleaming white with double sinks, bath and a shower, all spotless. (Image: Western Telegraph) Tenby-inspired art adorns the walls and we really like the beach-themed carpet. The room is probably better suited for a couple with a child rather than an adult and two kids. It is set up for two people in terms of cups and glasses and we draw straws over who will share the double! (Image: Western Telegraph) On the terrace below, the Tenby Rocks party is in full swing, a Saturday afternoon shenanigan featuring a DJ blasting out Ibiza classics, with cocktails on the terrace. When I pop back down to reception, the floorboards are reverberating under my feet and the older couple checking in look a bit concerned. The music dies down just after six and the girls in their miniskirts and bikini tops and boys in bucket hats head elsewhere. (Image: Western Telegraph) Once the terrace is restored to tranquillity, it is a truly lovely place to be. Nestled into the ruins of the old town walls with sweeping views over South Beach and out to sea, it's the perfect place for a drink in the sun. (Image: Western Telegraph) After settling in, we head to South Beach, a mere few minutes' walk away, and spend a delicious time in the sea. Back at the hotel, we scrub up for dinner in the hotel's Essence restaurant where we have a sea view table - it is a bit like being on a boat with nothing but the sea beyond us. (Image: Western Telegraph) For our starters we order the Tenby Bay Basket to share, two mini baskets of deep-fried deliciousness with a small salad and garlic and thermidor dips. There are cries of 'I'm obsessed' and 'can we have this every week' as we tuck into the baskets of lobster tail, crayfish, tiger prawns , mussels , shrimp and cockles. For my main, I order the herb-crusted sea trout with confit potatoes, samphire and a white wine and laverbread sauce. There are no herbs, but the sea trout (or sewin) is very nicely cooked, just on the verge of rare without being slimy. The salty samphire sets it off nicely but the laverbread in the sauce makes the whole dish a little too salty. I swipe the tween's uneaten salad and the pea shoots balance out the saltiness. (Image: Western Telegraph) The tween has an Imperial chicken burger with extra bacon and proper chips. He particularly likes the dressing and wolfs the lot down saying it's 'an orchestra of flavour in my mouth'. The teen orders pulled crab and lobster pappardelle, ribbons of pasta in a crab and lobster bisque topped with a lobster tail. She is a bit perplexed as to the absence of cherry tomatoes as they are on the menu, but enjoys the pasta and the succulent lobster flesh. (Image: Western Telegraph) We chose our puddings and wait for someone to take our order and wait …. and wait. The restaurant staff are also taking drinks out to a very busy terrace. Eventually I catch the barman's eye and he sends the manager over. We order a chocolate brownie bomb and a Cointreau and orange crème brûlée, only to be told the kitchen has closed. The dessert disaster is somewhat saved by two bowls of ice cream and an affogato. I would have liked to have tried that crème brûlée though. After dinner, we head out through Tenby's bustling evening streets and catch live music at a venue or two before making our way back. We are grateful for the air conditioning in the room and are lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves as the Buck moon reflects in the sea. (Image: Western Telegraph) The next morning, we are in the sea before breakfast, the tide is high but there is a scrap of sand at the beach by the Paragon with only a couple of people on it. The sand is golden, the water clear and I have that real 'on holiday' feeling. It's bliss. (Image: Western Telegraph) Back at the hotel and we find out that check out isn't at ten, as written on the guest info, but at eleven. What a relief! This gives us time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast. At Essence there is a buffet with cereal, yoghurt and fruit, pastries and toast as well as a hot menu to order from. (Image: Western Telegraph) After a delicious bowl of yogurt, raspberries and granola (why had I never thought of adding seeds and walnuts to mine at home? Yummy!), we order a full Welsh, scrambled eggs and salmon and eggs royale. (Image: Western Telegraph) All are perfectly-proportioned, not too big to overwhelm but big enough to set us up for the day. (Image: Western Telegraph) The Welsh breakfast is well presented and not at all greasy, there is no laverbread with it - which is a shame as I was looking forward to it - and the poached eggs, though looking gorgeous, were a bit overcooked. However, those are my only niggles and the salmon and eggs in both their breakfast manifestations were very well received. (Image: Western Telegraph) Once packed, the staff kindly say that we can leave our bags at the hotel and we divide a few more jolly hours between the beach and the terrace before heading home. So what of the Imperial? Well, it still needs a couple of tweaks in the kitchen and restaurant, but it's in a cracking spot with unparalleled views, it is child and dog-friendly, the staff are lovely and the rooms gorgeous. I'm still a bit unsure about the incongruity of the Ibiza party on the terrace, but it is only on a Saturday afternoon and finishes early enough. Maybe next time I will have to ditch the mummy dungarees, put on a mini skirt, order a cocktail and join in! (Image: Kayak PR) To stay at the Imperial Hotel, Tenby, visit linked above.
Buzz Feed
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
Just 32 Hot-Weather Must-Haves With Super Cool Prices
A Briotech topical skin spray featuring an alcohol-free, dermatologist-approved formula that contains hypochlorous acid — the main ingredient in the more expensive Tower 28 SOS Spray, BTW — an antibacterial that helps soothe hot skin whether it's from a painful sunburn or an intense outdoor workout. And you can spray it over top of makeup, so use it whenever you need it! A wide-leg jumpsuit that makes for the roomiest piece in your wardrobe, so you can step out into the summer heat in style without worrying about sweating through your entire fit. And it's designed with 100% cotton, meaning it's airy, light, and breathable — you'll love it so much, you might buy several colors! A stick-on shade to help prevent the sun from transforming your car into the hotbox from hell and provide a little more protection from its scorching rays. Any kiddos or pets traveling in the backseat will be especially grateful! SweatBlock antiperspirant wipes with a clinical strength formula to help put a stop to excessive sweating for anyone who finds themselves drenched, no matter the weather or activity. Each application works for up to seven sweat-free days. A pair of retro-inspired, 100% UV-protection rounded aviator sunglasses that are giving Top Gun with flair. And the lenses are polarized, meaning they reduce reflections and glare, even on the sunniest of days! Orrrr a three-pack of vintage-inspired polarized sunglasses, so you can embrace summer in style by literally carrying a pair of glasses in your go-to bag, your car, and another one near the door, so you can grab them on your way out! These are also designed to keep your eyes fully protected from UV rays and help reduce annoying glares, making them perfect for most outdoor activities. An ice roller to help de-stress your skin and remove puffiness with a few rolls across your cheeks, eyes, and forehead. This innovative tool can be popped in the fridge or freezer, and then it's ready for use! Plus, it can even offer some relief for sinus pain or migraines. Pro-tip: roll it over your favorite sheet mask for a super soothing sensation! A pack of sunburn-preventing UV stickers, which let you know when it's time to reapply your sunscreen because it changes colors when your first application has worn off! They are super thin and sweat- and water-resistant, so you can have an active beach day or outdoor adventure without worrying they'll fall off. A pair of tapered pants featuring 100% lightweight linen and a jogger-inspired look in case you're someone who doesn't enjoy shorts and jeans, especially if they're waaaay too hot during the dog days of summer. Plus, you could effortlessly dress these up or down for an airy, go-to style. Essence's Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara because it boasts a waterproof (read: sweatproof) formula that delivers the look of voluminous falsies without the painstaking process of gluing to apply and the fear of your lashes flying off when you're driving with the windows down. A Megababe anti-chafing balm created with a moisturizing *and* soothing blend of aloe, pomegranate, and grapeseed oil, so you can step out in short shorts and skirts without worrying about your thighs being on fire just from walking down the street. An inflatable pool just perfect on those days when the only form of relief from the blazing heat is lounging half-submerged in a pool of water. This even has a built-in bench and cup holders, so you can enjoy a cold beverage while you soak. A set of crop tops that reviewers and TikTokers are obsessed about for their compression design that offers support *and* comfort, so you can pretty much wear them anywhere, from your 6 a.m. hot yoga class to a late-night fast food run. Plus, word on the street is they're a great affordable alternative to similar styles at Skims! A sleek 3-in-1 handheld fan — besides being able to cool you down at any boiling outdoor occasion, this gadget is also a portable charging bank and flashlight, so basically it deserves a place in your purse or backpack year-round. Steve from Blues Clues probably wishes he had this on-hand instead of a handy-dandy notebook! Cushionaire sandals designed to keep you comfy with a suede insole that contours to your foot for a *literal* perfect fit and flexible footbed. When you're making your way through the state fair, theme park, festival, or wherever else this summer, you'll be stylish and have zero worries about your dogs barking at the end of the day. *woof woof* Burt's Bees sunburn relief lotion for soothing and hydrating your skin after enduring a little too much sun exposure thanks to a blend of coconut, aloe, and other moisturizing ingredients. This is a great on-the-go must-have in case you accidentally forget to reapply your sunscreen! An adorable pair of Skechers cork wedges — these boast contoured footbeds to ensure of comfortable fit without sacrificing any style. Your summer 'fits will be raking in all the compliments when people see you living your best life in these 2.25-inch heels. A set of stick-shaped ice molds just perfect for inserting into water bottles without battling like a toddler learning shapes. Plus, they come with covers, so you can stack them in your freezer and have several ready for your next outdoor excursion. A pack of mosquito dunks, which are created with BTI, bacteria toxic to mosquitoes and larvae, but safe for everything else. All you have to do is place these into standing water, and it will reduce (or possibly eliminate) the presence of mosquitoes and their larvae for up to 30 days, so you can enjoy the cool breeze and sunshine of your outdoor oasis without fear of being bitten all over. Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face SPF 60 Serum — it's a top-rated moisturizing primer, boasting a lightweight, non-greasy formula that effortlessly absorbs into your skin without leaving an ashy-looking white cast behind. So it's absolutely perfect for wearing solo or underneath your makeup to keep your skin protected from harmful UV rays while you're out enjoying cold bevvies on all the patios this summer! Some aerothotic flip-flops in case you need a summer-ready shoe that offers comfort *and* style. These are designed with cushioned gel insoles, a sweat-resistant footbed, and premium arch support, so you could wear them for hours and hours without needing to take a break. Plus, the straps are lined for even MORE comfort! An ergonomic crack weeder tool made of stainless steel and designed to reach deep into those annoying narrow sidewalk spaces to extract weeds, moss, thistles, and other invasive greenery that you can't get to with your bare hands. This will make your sun-baked Sunday afternoon gardening so much easier, and help relieve some of the stress you've been putting on your back and knees pulling weeds yourself! A pair of bike shorts that, once you put them on, you'll probably go back to buy a pair for every day of the week because they're *that* comfortable. Seriously, from lounging around to getting your workout in — you will never take these shorts off. Plus, they have pockets! A bottle of Nyx matte setting spray because you want to be confident that your makeup actually makes it to *and* through the day without worrying about sweating, crying, or wiping it off. You're going to depend on this for those 90-degree daytime functions! A pair of rolled denim shorts in case your go-to bottoms are jeans, but the thermometer is saying "not today" at over 80°. With these, you can embrace the dependable durability of denim and still feel the sun and breeze on your legs. And who doesn't love a high waist?! A reusable XL gel ice pack that can stay cold for about a half-hour, which is just time enough for you to cool off after an intense workout, walking the dog on a ridiculously hot day, or even just coming inside after a quick screen break for some sunshine. 😭 It's hot out there, y'all! A programmable AC booster fan to replace and upgrade your current registers and HVAC system by increasing airflow with 10 fan speed options, an LCD display, and a convenient remote control. E.l.f. Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen, which boasts a lightweight, non-greasy finish with SPF 35, so you don't feel sticky and weighted down before even stepping outside. You can even use it as a priming base for your makeup, so if it's time to reup but the price of Supergoop is making you (and your budget) cringe... this is a darn good alternative! *OR* Black Girl Sunscreen — aka an SPF 30 sunscreen created by women of color with women of color in mind, so you can apply a product that dries without leaving a chalky white residue on your skin!!! Plus, a moisturizing blend of jojoba and avocado oils also helps soothe, hydrate, and protect your skin when you need it. A travel-friendly bug bite relief patch created with hydrocolloid to help absorb leftover saliva or venom from the area, as well as aloe and witch hazel to help prevent itching and deliver instant relief. These were designed with kids in mind to help them stop picking and scratching at bug bites, but anyone can use them! It's that time of year again when the flies and mosquitoes are literally out for blood, so you've got to stay ready. Some under-$50 hiking sandals that feature adjustable ankle straps, a traction-ready rubber sole, and high arch support. Instead of breaking your budget on name-brand sandals just to feel sturdy on the sand when you head to the beach this summer, try these versatile shoes out and spend the money you saved on a much-deserved ice cream after being outdoors for hours. A pair of lightweight elastic shorts designed with an adorable ruffled hem AND pockets! 🙌 You can dress these up or down with a crop top, blazer, cardigan, bodysuit — and you might just end up wearing these all summer long without ever having to repeat an outfit!
