What's On 15 Dec

Ellie Smith
December 15, 2024

Dear Reader,

I like to spin a yarn that I got that ‘tap on the shoulder’. It’s not true, of course, but I did get asked to apply to join the Secret Intelligence Service in a more conventional way once I’d finished my degree. To be frank, the application process scared me witless and I didn’t think I stood a gnat’s chance in hell of being the next Bond or even Moneypenny (such was limited knowledge of what being a spy meant). And I was probably right, because the GCHQ, another government intelligence agency that requires superb problem solving skills, has just published its Christmas puzzle – let’s say, I wouldn’t be top of the class. How about you?

Have a great week.

WHAT’S EXCITING ME THIS WEEK

Does An Olive Oil Hair Mask Actually Work?

I’m actually sitting here, hair doused with olive oil as I write (as per the instructions). Reminds me of all the ridiculous beauty concoctions we’d do as kids – not least putting your face over a steaming bowl of kettle water with some old dried kitchen oregano floating around in it. As for the efficacy of the hair mask? Tell you next week…

Will There Be Snow This Christmas?

Good question. We’ll put on our meteorological goggles and do our best to share what we (i.e. The Met Office) know… I suspect, at least towards the south, we’ll be seeing more damp, grey, grizzly days. But, you never know. Find out more here.

Are You Joy Drenching Your Interiors?

Can you prolong your festive frivolity into the new year by injecting your interiors with some serious colour? It’s bound to bring some joy to your home – and given that January is the most miserable month of the year, couldn't we all do with that?

PRODUCT OF THE WEEK

Never Say Die Small Batch Bourbon

Got a whisky lover in your life? Treat them to a bottle of Never Say Die’s bourbon, which features notes of spice and citrus, distilled in Kentucky. £59.95, thewhiskyexchange.com

FIVE THINGS NOT TO MISS

Ring in 2025 at London’s buzziest Peruvian restaurant, COYA Mayfair, which is throwing a dazzling Golden Incan Empire party this New Year’s Eve. 31 December 2024

Here’s your chance to own a slice of cinematic history: Paul Mescal’s Gladiator II press tour wardrobe is going on sale on Vinted. From 16 December 2024

Reschio Estate, Umbria

If you haven’t yet sorted your NYE plans, we’ve got a whole host of ideas for last-minute getaways – from Hogmanay in Edinburgh to a hiking retreat in India.

Get into the festive spirit at one of London’s most magical Christmas markets in places like Covent Garden, St Paul’s and the Southbank.

Masheter Movie Archive / Alamy / Stock Photo

Watch Bogart: Life Comes in Flashes, the first feature documentary to chart the life and career of Hollywood icon Humphrey Bogart.

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