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Explore the World’s Most Exotic Locations with Baldwins Travel: Your Gateway to Adventure

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Embark on an unforgettable journey to some of the world’s most exotic destinations with Baldwins Travel. They offer access to unique experiences and beautiful places across the globe. From the azure waters of Tayrona National Park in Colombia to the stunning landscapes of the Caribbean, each location promises a blend of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking views.

Baldwins Travel, a renowned travel agency, provides personalised service to ensure travellers enjoy the best possible travel experiences. Their team is part of the Signature Travel network, a collection of over 7,000 travel professionals, ensuring clients receive expert advice and planning.

With its award-winning service, Baldwins Travel offers travellers the chance to explore hidden gems and iconic tourist destinations alike. Whether it’s lounging on a secluded beach or exploring vibrant local cultures, they cater to all tastes and preferences, making each trip a unique adventure.

Discovering Natural Wonders

Exploring nature’s wonders offers unforgettable experiences. From hidden beaches and colourful coral reefs to towering mountains and lush forests, the world is rich with beauty waiting to be discovered. Each location holds its own unique splendour and story.

Pristine Beaches and Coral Ecosystems

Stunning white sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs are found in many exotic locations. The Maldives boasts clear waters perfect for snorkelling, revealing a bustling underwater world. French Polynesia, including Bora Bora, offers lagoons teeming with marine life. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is a must-visit, being the largest coral ecosystem globally. Known for its biodiversity, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Other iconic beaches include Whitehaven Beach in Australia, famous for its pure silica sand, and the beaches of the Seychelles, often considered some of the most beautiful in the world. Exploring these environments provides a rare glimpse into the planet’s diverse and delicate ocean life.

Majestic Mountains and National Parks

Majestic mountains and vast national parks offer breathtaking views and incredible hiking opportunities. Machu Picchu in Peru, nestled in the Andes Mountains, is a UNESCO World Heritage site attracting adventurers worldwide. In the United States, the Grand Canyon showcases awe-inspiring geological formations and a wealth of trails for exploration.

New Zealand‘s mountainous landscape and national parks, like Fiordland, feature dramatic fiords and rugged terrain. Torres del Paine National Park in Chile presents stunning mountain views and unique wildlife. Each of these locations offers a blend of natural beauty and exciting opportunities for hiking and exploration.

Unique Wildlife and Lush Forests

Forests rich with exotic wildlife provide endless fascination for nature lovers. Costa Rica‘s rainforests are home to a variety of species, making it a prime location for wildlife observation. Similarly, Madagascar is famous for unique species like lemurs, highlighting its biodiversity.

El Yunque in Puerto Rico is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering lush trails and striking waterfalls. Tasmania is famous for its dense forests and endemic species. These richly varied habitats offer visitors an intimate look at diverse ecosystems and the importance of conservation.

Cultural Exploration and Luxury Retreats

Travellers can discover a fusion of cultural richness and luxurious comfort in many exotic destinations around the world. From soaking in the historical wonders of ancient cities to relaxing in world-class resorts, these experiences offer something for every type of traveller.

Immersive Cultural Destinations

Visiting unique cultures offers a glimpse into the diverse ways of life across the globe. Kyoto, Japan, charms visitors with its ancient temples and traditional tea houses, creating an atmosphere steeped in history. Bhutan, nestled in the Himalayas, fascinates with its well-preserved cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.

Iceland, with its mystical folklore, contrasts sharply with the architectural marvel of Petra in Jordan, carved directly into vibrant cliffs. Each location offers unparalleled opportunities for solo travellers seeking personal discovery or families eager to learn together.

Exclusive Resorts and Leisure Activities

Luxury resorts provide the perfect settings for indulgence and relaxation. Maldives and Bora Bora are popular for couples, featuring overwater bungalows and serene beaches. St. Lucia and Santorini are favourites for both families and solo adventurers, with their stunning views and engaging local activities.

These exclusive retreats offer a variety of leisure options such as scuba diving and snorkelling among vibrant corals, or sampling gourmet seafood at exquisite restaurants. Jamaica hosts world-renowned luxury hotels where guests can unwind in style, completing any cultural exploration with unmatched comfort and leisure.

Stay connected with Baldwins Travel on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for the latest updates and insights.

New energy price cap comes into effect today

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Today sees Ofgem’s new price cap takes effect, raising energy bills for typical households by around £150 per year.

The average dual fuel household paying by direct debit will now face a yearly bill of £1,717, up from £1,568—a 10% increase, adding about £12 per month to the average bill.

The Ofgem price cap sets the maximum amount energy companies can charge per unit of gas and electricity, as well as the daily standing charge for being connected to the grid.

The cap is based on a “typical” household’s usage, which is currently 2,700 kilowatt hours of electricity and 11,500 kilowatt hours of gas annually.

Despite its name, the price cap doesn’t limit your total energy bill. It only caps the cost per unit of gas and electricity, so your bill depends on how much energy you use—using more will cost more.

Although prices are still lower than last winter, the rise in bills comes as some support for bills has been withdrawn, and the new government has announced it will stop winter fuel payments for around 10 million pensioners in England and Wales.

The new price cap is in place until December 31, with the next cap set to take effect on January 1, which Ofgem will announce on November 25.

The rise in the price cap prompted some households to look for fixed-rate energy deals before today’s deadline to avoid further increases.

Many households are already facing financial pressures due to inflation and rising costs of living with increased energy bills leading to tougher budgeting decisions and low income families potentially having to choose between heating and other essentials.

The new price cap will affect households on standard variable rate tariffs. If you’re on a fixed-rate energy deal, you won’t see an immediate rise, as your rates are locked in until your contract ends.

However, if your fixed deal expires between October and December, you’ll either need to switch to a new, likely higher, deal based on the current price cap or move to an SVR tariff. Your energy supplier will inform you of the new rates before they take effect.

Manchester celebrates ‘Reclaiming Narratives’ for Black History Month

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Black History Month will be marked by recognising and correcting the untold stories of Mancunian history and culture.

In a series of panel-discussions, in-conversations and hands-on creative sessions, the city is inviting everyone to join in and celebrate how Black communities have left an indelible mark through influence and innovation in areas such as the arts, education and science in Manchester.

The council is marking this special month through celebration and collaboration with cultural partners including the Caribbean and African Health Network.

This year’s theme is called “Reclaiming Narratives” in efforts to shift focus from one-sided narratives of Black identity often told through stories of slavery and the civil rights struggle.

This Black History Month is about retelling the unique and individual histories and enriched cultures of people from African and Caribbean backgrounds, which have been mistold and overlooked for far too long.

Being able to define the Black narrative in its most authentic form, means old and new generations have access to historically accurate information and due credit is given to original pioneers and trailblazers, while instilling confidence and pride in Black learners and educators.

In Manchester, the city’s Black history has never been more present.

Leonard Baker Johnson (pictured) known as ‘Len Johnson,’ was a professional boxer born in Clayton, Manchester and won several middle-weight titles during his career

Kath Locke persuaded Manchester City Council to commemorate the 1945 Pan-African Congress with a red plaque to Olive Morris, a former student at the University of Manchester, who co-founded the Manchester Black Women’s Co-operative.

And Yomi Mambu was the first Black person born outside of the UK to hold the position of lord mayor of Manchester.

Manchester can expect to be immersed in a glamourous black-tie affair in an honorary nod to Black creatives at Aviva Studios, followed by poignant poetry sessions and a gospel choir. Discover new and reimagined ways to tell Black narratives at Manchester Central Library, explore how climate change is impacting Black communities at Manchester Museum.

Black History Month events in Manchester

  • In-conversation with award-winning broadcaster and author, Gary Young, in Reimagining Black History Month, organised by the Ahmed Iqbal Ullah RACE Centre at Manchester Central Library, October 2. Join the waiting list.
  • Evening of art and discussion on the life and legacy of Len Johnson in Knock Out Blow with poetry, music, interactive play, archives and exhibitions at Manchester Central Library’s Performance Space, October 3. Attendance is free.
  • Discussion breaking down stigma and education on Black men’s health with free Caribbean food at Withington Library, October 5. Attendance is free.
  • Discussion on how climate change is impacting Black communities in Environmental Justice: Let’s Talk About Race – Can I Live? At Manchester Museum, October 23. Tickets available.
  • Artists Tina Ramos Ekongo and Joanna Leung lead creative workshops in painting, music and mindfulness, such as traditional African weaving with Nayna from Street Style for all the family. Dates are October 22 at Longsight Library, October 23 at Forum Library, October 24 at Manchester Central Library and October 25 at Avenue Library. Attendance is free.
  • From a black-tie gala, poetry, theatre and music performances. Series of events at Aviva Studios, Factory International, October 1-31. Tickets available now.

More information about Black History Month events in Manchester is available at Manc Libraries.

Joanna Midgley, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, said: “There has been a long and rich history of Black communities making Manchester their home, and for many years this has not been brought to the forefront of our city’s incredible history and story.

“I am delighted to see the contribution and individual narratives of African and Caribbean people reflected in the many events, discussions and creative shows we have on offer during this Black History Month. It is a chance to celebrate and take pride in their important contribution to the fabric of our city.

“I encourage everyone to join in and to use this special month to share information and resources, and challenge perspectives in the spirit of this year’s Reclaiming Narratives.”

Lee-Ann Igbon, race lead and executive member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods, said: “Black History Month is a special and much needed time for all of us to reflect and celebrate the contribution of Manchester’s Black communities. This year is about finally having authentic and accurate narratives represented.

“It’s fantastic to see the spotlight on Black creative talent and innovation – both past and present.”

Police appeal for help following sexual assault in Bury

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Detectives in Bury are investigating reports of a rape in the Redvales Playing fields.

Police are appealing for information in order to identify four men who were in the area off Manchester Road between 3.30am and 6am on Sunday, September 1.

The men were wearing sports clothing and had a black Labrador dog with them.

Officers believe they could have important information that would support their investigation.

If this was you, or if you have information or dashcam footage that could help police identify and/or speak with these men, contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 8213 or 101, quoting log reference 940-01/09/2024.

Family pay tribute to grandmother following Mossley traffic collision

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A grandmother from Dukinfield has died following a serious road traffic collision in Tameside.

Joan Glue (72) was seriously injured during the incident involving a mini bus and a stationary Soul Kia car, on Stamford Road in Mossley, on September 18.

She had become unseated as a passenger on the minibus, police said.

Paying tribute, her family said; “She was a loving mother and grandmother. She enjoyed socialising with her friends at Beatrix House, usually playing bingo and watching films on movie afternoons.

“She also liked going out for meals and shopping. She was so proud of her family and loved showing her grandchildren off to everyone she met. She was an avid fan of the soaps Emmerdale and Coronation Street, never missing an episode and was a great friend to many, as well as being a much loved member of the Glue family.”

Greater Manchester Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) is continuing to investigate and is appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.

Officers are keen to speak to anyone who may have any footage, including dashcam, mobile phone or doorbell footage, from the area in the moments leading up to the collision.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4741 quoting log number 1632 of September 18.

Village Gym Partners with HYROX Global Fitness Challenge

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Village Health & Wellness Clubs have long been at the forefront of embracing the latest fitness trends. Now, as fitness enthusiasts prepare for the ultimate test, Village Gym is proud to announce its partnership with HYROX.

Through this partnership, Village Gym has become an official training club for HYROX event participants. Members will have access to specialised HYROX group classes and training sessions, focusing on endurance, strength endurance, power, and aerobic capacity, delivered as part of an athletic workout programme.

Participants in this new programme will benefit from the expertise of certified trainers, who will provide guidance on innovative workouts and offer structured fitness challenges and in-house competitions. Open to anyone over the age of 16 with a basic level of fitness, these sessions are ideal for those looking to take on a new challenge.

HYROX, first introduced in Germany in 2017, is an inclusive global fitness competition that caters to individuals of all abilities and backgrounds. Combining running with eight strength and endurance workouts, it pushes participants to their limits. The event has rapidly grown into one of the world’s most popular fitness races, now held in over 30 cities across more than 11 countries.

The competition features several divisions, including HYROX Women/Men, HYROX Pro Women/Men, HYROX Doubles, and HYROX Team Relay, ensuring that people of all fitness levels can find a challenge suited to them.

Village Gym’s partnership with HYROX will enable the club to offer engaging, competitive training programmes that reflect its mission of helping people at all fitness levels reach their goals. For those not quite ready for the full HYROX event, there will be HYROX Race Sim events starting later this year, with the first taking place at Village Gym Manchester, Ashton on 10th November. Additional events are scheduled for Birmingham and London in early 2025.

Leisure Club Manager, Lee Clayton, commented on the partnership: “HYROX is the fastest growing sport in the world. In line with the growing trend for competitive fitness, our partnership offers another level of innovation to our fitness programmes, and will no doubt be a hit with members throughout our UK clubs.”

As an official HYROX Training Club, Village Gym will offer HYROX training classes at all club locations, exclusively for members.

Additionally, Village Gym’s Ashton, Manchester club will host a HYROX Sim event on 10th November, with tickets available soon. Act quickly, as they are expected to sell out fast!

For more details, visit https://villagegym.co.uk/hyrox

ÜNLÜ & Co Enhances Investment Advisory Offerings in the UK

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UNLU Securities UK Limited has received additional permissions from the FCA to extend investment advisory services to both individual and institutional investors in Global Markets.

UNLU Securities UK Limited, the London branch of Türkiye’s foremost investment services and asset management group ÜNLÜ & Co, is broadening its business operations within the UK. Operating as a regulated entity under the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) since 2019, the company has provided Capital Markets and Corporate Finance advisory services to institutional clients in London. Now, the company is expanding its service portfolio to include Investment Advisory for both institutional and individual clients in the UK.

Mahmut L. Ünlü, Chairman and CEO of ÜNLÜ & Co, commented that “the new set of permissions, granted following a meticulous review process by the FCA, had reinforced our confidence in our new business model and capabilities,” further stating, “providing Investment Advisory services to a wider range of clients in the UK will be a significant step in our strategy of becoming a holistic international Financial Services group. We strongly believe that our new business model will create opportunities and synergies for our group and clients in Global Markets.”

About ÜNLÜ & Co:

Established in Istanbul in 1996 as an independent financial advisory firm, ÜNLÜ & Co has evolved into a leading group of companies specializing in investment services and asset management. Through its business units including ÜNLÜ Menkul Değerler, ÜNLÜ Portföy, İstanbul Varlık, DAHA Investment Advisory, and Piapiri, ÜNLÜ & Co boasts a team of over 500 experts operating across five different regions in Türkiye, as well as internationally in the UK and the United States, serving a diverse range of individual and institutional investors. 
https://www.unluco.com 

With a track record of 132 successful transactions totaling more than USD 18 billion in deal size since its establishment, ÜNLÜ & Co has become Türkiye’s leading merger and acquisition advisory firm. The company also ranks first in terms of total number of concluded transactions, the total number of cross-border transactions, and the total number of private fund transactions since 1998. (Mergermarket)

ÜNLÜ & Co Group ranks second among all financial institutions with 24% market share (excluding privatizations) in capital market transactions since 2010, involving initial public offerings, secondary public offerings, and accelerated book building; with 35 transactions; and an aggregate transaction value of USD 3.3 billion. (Bloomberg)

BettingOnline.co.uk Showcases Expert Betting Tips from Industry Veterans

UK’s newest betting platform combines experience and insight to deliver winning strategies to bettors

The team behind the newly launched BettingOnline.co.uk is setting a new standard for betting tips, combining deep industry knowledge with data-driven strategies to provide UK bettors with expert advice. With decades of combined experience in sports betting, the BettingOnline.co.uk team brings unrivalled insight to help users improve their chances of success.

While the site offers a wealth of content, including sportsbook reviews and bonus offers, it is the expert betting tips that truly stand out. By analysing trends, stats, and market conditions, the BettingOnline.co.uk team is dedicated to delivering accurate, actionable betting advice across all major sports, from football and horse racing to tennis and cricket.

What Sets BettingOnline.co.uk’s Betting Tips Apart:

  • Expert Analysis: With seasoned industry professionals on the team, BettingOnline.co.uk’s tips are crafted by individuals who have been part of the betting world for years. Their advice is grounded in experience, insider knowledge, and a comprehensive understanding of betting markets.
  • Data-Driven Insights: The site’s experts leverage cutting-edge analytics tools, studying historical data and current market conditions to predict outcomes with greater accuracy.
  • Regular Updates: Unlike many tipster services that only cover select events, BettingOnline.co.uk offers daily betting tips, ensuring users can find advice on a wide variety of sports and markets at any time.
  • Bespoke Strategies: BettingOnline.co.uk’s tips go beyond the basics, with tailored strategies for different types of bettors—from casual players looking for safe bets to seasoned pros seeking high-reward opportunities.

“Our team at BettingOnline.co.uk is passionate about sports betting, and we believe that our tips can make a real difference for bettors,” said Mike Ifftner, Sports Betting Expert at BettingOnline.co.uk. “We don’t just follow trends; we study the markets, analyse every detail, and share our expert insights to help users make smarter bets.”

The Team Behind the Tips
The BettingOnline.co.uk team is made up of industry veterans, sports analysts, and professional bettors who have worked with top bookmakers and media outlets in the UK and beyond. Their collective experience spans not only betting strategy but also game theory, probability, and the psychology of betting—ensuring the advice shared on the platform is both insightful and reliable.

“Our mission is to guide users with integrity and expertise. Every tip we share is rooted in careful analysis, not gut feelings,” added Mike Ifftner. “Whether it’s a football match or a horse race, we aim to give our users the edge they need to succeed.”

About BettingOnline.co.uk
BettingOnline.co.uk is a comprehensive resource for bettors in the UK, offering detailed reviews of sportsbooks, exclusive promotions, and expert betting tips. With a team of experienced industry professionals, the site provides data-driven betting advice and strategic tips across various sports. All platforms recommended by BettingOnline.co.uk are licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, ensuring a secure and responsible betting environment.

For the latest tips and insights, visit https://bettingonline.co.uk/betting-tips/.

Emma Mills Introduces New Podcast “Focus on the Fun Stuff” to Support Business Owners

Emma Mills, the accomplished entrepreneur and founder of the award-winning company MiPA, is excited to announce the launch of her new podcast, Focus on the Fun Stuff.

The podcast is designed to help business owners of all sizes rediscover the enjoyment in their work, offering useful insights on how to successfully manage a business without losing sight of what makes it fulfilling.

The first episode is scheduled to be released today (Friday 27th September), with new episodes becoming available each week thereafter.

Focus on the Fun Stuff tackles the lesser-discussed difficulties of running a business, sharing practical advice and relatable experiences for entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey.

Featuring interviews with a wide range of business owners, from startup entrepreneurs to well-known business leaders, Mills discusses common entrepreneurial challenges—such as burnout and getting bogged down in operational details—and offers strategies for regaining balance, satisfaction, and joy in their work.

At 43 years of age, Manchester-born Emma Mills founded her virtual assistant business, MiPA, from the ground up at 27 years old, turning it into a thriving company. This podcast has been inspired by her own experience of building a successful business and reflects her dedication to helping other entrepreneurs reach success without sacrificing their own happiness.

Speaking about the launch, Emma Mills said: “As a business owner myself for over 16 years, I’ve had thousands of conversations with entrepreneurs, and one thing I’ve learned is that no matter how successful they may seem, many of them are struggling behind the scenes.

“They’re often overwhelmed or feel like they’ve lost sight of why they started their business in the first place. This podcast is all about helping them reconnect with that ‘fun’—focusing on the aspects of the business they love while overcoming the daily challenges.”

Each episode of Focus on the Fun Stuff offers:

  • Inspiring conversations with business owners who have overcome difficulties to create businesses they love.
  • Actionable advice on mindset, productivity, leadership, and finding happiness in everyday business activities.
  • Personal stories from Emma, along with solo episodes where she shares key insights from her own experience of building a seven-figure business.

The first episode includes a thought-provoking interview with Dr Vikas Shah MBE, a respected business figure, who discusses the importance of addressing business challenges head-on and the value of developing strong teams.

Future episodes will showcase interviews with various entrepreneurs, including Justin Blackhurst, the CEO of a leading digital marketing company, and Dawn McGruer, a business growth expert who has reshaped her business to prioritise travel and wellness.

This podcast is tailored for any business owner or entrepreneur who has ever felt overwhelmed, questioned their purpose, or wondered if others are experiencing similar struggles. Whether managing a small business or leading a larger organisation, this podcast offers valuable lessons on how to enjoy the entrepreneurial journey and build a business that truly works for them.

Emma Mills concluded: “This podcast isn’t just for people with aspirations of building billion-pound businesses. It’s for anyone who wants to enjoy the process of growing their business and make decisions that align with their values and lifestyle.”

Podcast Launch Information

  • Title: Focus on the Fun Stuff
  • Launch Date: Friday 27th September
  • Available On: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms
  • Website: www.emmamills.co.uk / www.mi-pa.co.uk

For more information, visit Emma Mills’ official website or follow her on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:

‘This is not good enough’ – Ten Hag rues woeful performance against Spurs

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag was upset by his side’s performance in the 3-0 loss to Tottenham on Sunday.

The Red Devils were never really in the game and had captain Bruno Fernandes sent off in the second half.

It marked a miserable afternoon for the Dutchman, who is now under a lot of pressure in Manchester.

Speaking to BBC Match of the Day, he said: “To concede a goal after two or three minutes like that, it did something to our belief.

“Totally unnecessary. To concede a goal like this, the [opposing] centre-half stepping in and passing the whole team over the right side and then the winger tapping in at the far post.

“Same mistake as in the midweek against Twente, it should be stopped in the first moment.”

“From that moment on we were stressed on the ball. We could not find the triangles or the switches, we had some good moments, but from that moment we could not get a foothold.

“And we can do better than that. Even after such a mistake from us we should stay calm.

“We had chances and our moments to get back in the game, with Joshua Zirkzee and Alejandro Garnacho when we still had 11 players, and then after the red card too we had moments.

“We had our chances before half-time and in the second half with 10 men we had chances as well.”

The red card, shown to Fernandes in the 42nd minute, had a significant impact on the game.

Ten Hag was not convinced by the referee’s decision and admitted it had a huge impact on the game.

He added: “It definitely had an impact on the game. I don’t think it was a red card.

“First we have to deal with this and show resilience. This is not good enough.

“We have to accept this and get better. Focus on the next game and do things better than we did today,” the United boss concluded.