TLH Leisure Resort, Torquay

It’s the latest in make-up technology and you can’t buy it in stores in the UK, so I was thrilled when I realised that the Aztec Spa sells Bare Escentuals mineral make-up.

If you haven’t heard about it yet, you soon will do. All the major beauty houses are getting in on the act, but nothing compares to the 100% pure bareMinerals.

It looks like a powder but feels like a cream and is free of preservatives, talc, oil, fragrance and other harmful chemicals so is perfect if you have any allergies. And if, like me, you’re prone to the occasional break out, it doesn’t clog your pores either. You apply it like a blusher with a large brush in circular movements all over the face. The beauty of it is you can slowly build up the coverage and you get a really natural look. It takes a couple of goes to get used to this new way of applying your foundation but once you get the hang of it you’ll be hooked!

At the Aztec Spa you can buy starter kits which include the special natural bristle brush to apply the powder and a free DVD to give you tips on applying. The Aztec therapists can also give you some expert advice on the best choice for you.

As well as the foundations, all with an SPF15 by the way, the Aztec also stocks the bareMinerals gorgeous eyeshadows, lip colours and blushers.

Mineral make-up really is a revelation – you must give it a go!

Don’t get me wrong, I love Christmas, but there are always a few nearest and dearest who are very difficult to buy for. You’ve done the usual smellies, chocolates, socks year after year and it’s really time to find something a bit different - something which will bring forth a ‘just what I always wanted’ response.

Which is where Elephant Dung stationery comes in………….

Cards, paper, notelets, pen pots and more all made from, believe it or not, elephant poo! Now there’s a novel gift idea.

On Wednesday 3^rd December, the Aztec Spa is hosting a Christmas Shopping Evening. This is just the place to find some fabulous gifts, including said elephant dung stationery from Green Elephant. If you are an Elemis lover (or know someone who is!) it is definitely worth a visit for the range of Elemis goodies on offer, including their gorgeous gift packs, with the added bonus of an Aztec Spa treatment voucher if you spend over £50.

Other treats include OPI nail polishes from only £9.15 and Bare Escentuals Mineral Make-up which is being hailed as the next big thing in beauty (by those in the know!). There will be stunning contemporary jewellery from Gemme de Joanne and beautiful lingerie from Foxy Lingerie as well as Phoenix Trading with unusual cards and wrapping paper.

If you are still stuck for ideas then the perfect answer is a TLH Gift Voucher which can be in the Aztec Spa, Bistro or on just about anything else which may take your fancy at TLH!

With mulled wine and mince pies on offer, it will be a great evening to get you in the festive mood. And if you happen to be a member of the Aztec Club you’ll get 10% off when you show your membership card*. No need to book, just come along to the Aztec Bistro from 5.00pm on Wednesday 3^rd December.

*except Elemis gift packs

My partner asked me what I would like for Christmas the other day, so at the top of my list I put “going out for Christmas lunch”. Honestly I can’t think of a nicer treat than to be able to choose from a menu selection that I haven’t had to plan, shop for or cook. And then not have to wash up - bliss! That has to be a seriously top-notch bit of self-indulgence. So we’ve booked to go to the Aztec Bistro with our friends who are coming up from Cornwall to stay with us.

The Aztec Bistro - at TLH Leisure Resort -  has been open for just over a year, and we’ve had some great evening meals there. I’ve taken my Mum in for a couple of lunchtime snacks too, including a lunchtime spa special they do, which includes a mini spa treatment and a light lunch in the Bistro for just £20. Anyway, because we’ve always enjoyed it so much we’ve decided to go there for Christmas Day.  The menu sounds really tasty, and I just love the unusual atmosphere created by the Aztec surroundings - the decor makes you feel special but without being as formal as a hotel restaurant, and the staff are really friendly.

We could have chosen to go the the Toorak Hotel as they are doing Christmas lunches too, but the Bistro just has the edge for me - and it is my Christmas present after all! Why don’t you treat yourself and give them a call on 01803 400145.

If you’ve ever had the task of organising the office Christmas bash, you know what a headache it can be. I can fully sympathise as I get “volunteered” to organise our own office do every year. Here at TLH Leisure Resort  we can help take all the stress out of planning because we have up to 9 different ways to party this Christmas. There’s sure to be something to suit everyone, and from only £14.95 a head.

And it needn’t just be a work occasion. Why not book something with your friends or family? Any excuse for a party!

The Toorak, Victoria and Carlton Hotels all put on a great party when you can really let your hair down. Come along and join in the party fun – there’s a great atmosphere and the disco is included. Take a look at our party menus - guaranteed to tempt you.

If dancing isn’t your thing, then enjoy good food and good conversation in our Aztec Bistro - for a more informal gathering it’s the perfect setting. Add in a game of 10-pin bowling or a disco in the Eclipse Nitespot and you have a memorable evening planned.

Other ideas include an Eclipse buffet and disco or we can help put together a tailor-made evening just for you and your guests. Whatever you’re looking for this Christmas, TLH has it covered. See for yourself at www.tlh4locals.co.uk