The BBC 4tech team came into the Markcomedia Office in London Bridge on Friday 24th February to film the offices and interview some of the staff at MyVoucherCodes about their job roles and how they feel about working in London Bridge.
The picture that is featured (BBC Filming London Bridge) in this post is the view that we are lucky enough to walk past every day on our way to and from work!
This week sees the launch of this year’s first new console, the Playstation Vita (or PS Vita for short).
The handheld device is the successor to Sony’s last foray into the portable market, the PlayStation Portable, which never quite achieved the success it promised.
But much has been learned second time round, and the PS Vita is a whole new approach to the well trodden portable device concept. For a start the device features a stunning 5 Inch OLED screen that is a vast improvement, but hardly surprising. At the very least you would expect the latest technology, to deliver the best performance and graphics. But nevertheless, at least it has delivered on its promise. Other features include full PlayStation Network connectivity, dual analogue sticks and a delightful line up of launch games.
Available in two different models, one with Wi-Fi only for around £229 and one with both Wi-Fi and 3G support for around £279, the PS Vita is an expensive purchase. But the handheld does do more than just play games. The device comes with a competent web browser and Google Maps, plus you can watch videos, listen to music and take photos. Nothing groundbreaking, but the console can do pretty much everything a half decent smart phone can, except the obvious of course which is handy. The PS Vita is much more of a social creature than its predecessor. You can check out who’s nearby and send a friend request effortlessly as you switch between up to five apps at once.
But it is on gaming that the PS Vita will be judged, so how does it handle? The Oval shape is similar to that of the PSP, but having touch capabilities on the back of the Vita as well as on the front display is an interesting innovation that works pretty well. The dual analogue joysticks take a little time to master, but are perfectly fit for the purpose. The touch-screen control records movement better than any other device, and It is easy to glide around the screen. The new bits and bobs fit seamlessly with the now traditional PS buttons including the D-pad and the shoulder buttons.
Chief up among the launch titles is Uncharted: Golden Abyss, where Nathan Drake uncover the dark secret behind the 400-year-old massacre of a Spanish expedition. The game is an immersive cinematic journey brought to life through the unrivalled graphical power of the PS Vita, and bodes well for the future of the device. The PS Vita is fully backwards-compatible with PlayStation Portable games digitally released on the PlayStation Network via the PlayStation Store, and software will be will be up-scaled to a standard befitting of this snazzy gadget.
The Vita has a few negative points, such as an average battery life and no internal storage, but they are hardly the end of the world. Memory cards up to 32GB are available, and there are plans afoot for an external battery device. But the positives wholly outweigh the negatives, and while not quite a must have purchase, the PS Vita is a thing of beauty that every gamer would surely love to own.
The ultimate aim of the PS Vita was to bring console level gaming to a handheld in a way nobody has done before. Based on that, I think it’s fair to say it has succeeded.
You can get a Free PS Vita with selected smartphone contracts from Carphone Warehouse, while stocks last. Plus remember to check out all the latest technology discounts at MyVoucherCodes.
Images taken from uk.playstation.com
The brand new Collection Weekend has launched at John Lewis, so revamp your wardrobe to get yourself looking hot this summer! The new womenswear collection is made from high quality materials, featuring soft pastel palettes infused with hints of colour. These laid back, classic designs with their simple, neat cuts is the definition of the weekend wardrobe.
Furthermore John Lewis have got SS12 sussed this year by incorporating key trends at high street prices, offering a whole host of private label collections including jewellery, shoes, handbags and scarves.
It’s all about accessorising with delicate string gem bracelets and vibrant stacking bangles that are causing a fashion frenzy. Designed to be layered and stacked, you can customise them to suit your individuality.
John Lewis is a step ahead with an edited private label collection of footwear featuring patent leathers and nude tones - the perfect style partnership. The collection ranges from gorgeous flats to pin thin stilettos.
Floaty scarves mixed with casual cotton and linen blends, finished with a crinkled appearance have been inspired by catwalk designs but without the price tag. These scarves come in fresh pastel colours with florescent shots and tropical prints that will bring any outfit to life.
John Lewis has got Spring/Summer 2012 covered, so make sure you have by indulging in their new Collection Weekend, as well as their catwalk inspired womenswear and accessories!
London Fashion Week is taking place on from the 17th to the 22nd February 2012 at Somerset House, London and will be show casing the latest trends and beauty products from the world’s most prestigious fashion designers on the catwalk and at the exhibition.
The AW12 exhibition is now situated over 2 floors instead of 4, which sees a new style focusing on making a more tailored and visual feel to the showcase. This season, new exhibitors include footwear designers, Alain Quilici, Alejandro, Ingelmo, Julian Hakes and Kat Maconie. The Terrace Space at Somerset House will host a selection of accessories, including new designers Emma J Shipley and Bernstock Speirs. The Exhibition will also have merchandised feature areas for the returning BFC showcasing initiatives. These include NEWGEN, sponsored by Topshop; Estethica, sponsored by Monsoon and Headonism, which showcases new British milliners supported by Ascot Racecourse.
London Fashion Week, has caused the high street retailers to go into a fashion frenzy; offering their new collections for discounted prices exclusively to MyVoucherCodes! So bring some colour to these dark days and look right on trend and super stylish with the latest gorgeous must haves!
It’s February, so it must be time for some good music.
The 2012 Brit Awards take place at the O2 on 21st February, with James Corden returning to do the hosting duties. Featuring live performances from Rihanna, Coldplay, Adele and Bruno Mars and many more, the awards honour the greatest artists from the UK and beyond who have achieved excellence in music over the last year.
And what a year it has been. Adele has literally conquered the world, Rihanna continues to release a single every other week and best of all Westlife announced they were splitting up. Elsewhere the world said goodbye to Amy Winehouse, Ed Sheeran built a Lego house and Noel Gallagher returned with some High Flying Birds.
The Brit awards are never far from controversy, who can forget Jarvis Cooker’s stage invasion during a Michael Jackson performance, or Geri Halliwell’s boob falling out and of course Chumbawumba soaking John Prescott. It has almost become traditional for something to go awry on the night. The last few years have passed relatively quietly, but there is always someone waiting in the wings to steal the headlines.
But who will win a coveted Brit Award? I have made some predictions for a few of the top awards on the night, but do you agree?
British male solo artist
Nominees – Ed Sheeran, James Blake, James Morrison, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Professor Green.
Predicted Winner – Ed Sheeran
British female solo artist
Nominees – Adele, Florence & the Machine, Jessie J, Kate Bush, Laura Marling
Predicted Winner – Adele
British breakthrough act
Nominees – Anna Calvi, Ed Sheeran, Emeli Sandé, Jessie J, The Vaccines
Predicted Winner – Jessie J
British group
Nominees – Arctic Monkeys, Chase & Status, Coldplay, Elbow, Kasabian
Predicted Winner – Kasabian
Mastercard British album of the year
Nominees – Adele (21), Coldplay (Mylo Xyloto), Ed Sheeran( +), Florence & the Machine (Ceremonials), PJ Harvey (Let England Shake)
Predicted Winner – Coldplay (Mylo Xyloto)
Make your own mind up with Brit Awards Nominated Artists From £3.75 at Zavvi, and don’t forget to check out MyVoucherCodes for all the latest hot discounts.
Despite the country being only just over 150 years old (the kingdom of Italy was proclaimed in 1861) some of the world’s most fascinating ancient sites are located here. The imposing Colosseum in Rome is considered one of the greatest achievements of Roman architecture and engineering. Built in the 1st century AD, it was the largest amphitheatre in the Roman Empire seating 50,000 spectators watching gladiatorial battles, public executions and other forms of entertainment.
Pompeii was a city which was literally buried alive. When the nearby volcano Vesuvius erupted in 79AD the town was buried under 4 to 6 metres of volcanic ash, suffocating the unfortunate residents as they tried to escape. It lay undiscovered until 1748; a city frozen at the height of the Roman Empire. Excavations have unearthed temples, a marketplace, a main street, public baths, bars and brothels – a truly fascinating window into the past.
However it’s not just all just ancient ruins! Italy is a modern, vibrant country and nothing emphasises that more than the Italians’ love of fashion. Some of the world’s most famous fashion houses such as: Armani, Gucci, Versace, Fendi and Dolce & Gabbana are based in the northern city of Milan, and a shopping trip to the designer stores of Rome, Milan and Florence is a must for any visiting fashionista.
What’s more a shopping trip wouldn’t be complete without lunch! Italy boasts one of the greatest cuisines in the world and is home to pizza, pasta, and risotto. Supplement these excellent dishes with great coffee (think cappuccino, latte, Americano), wonderful ice cream (or gelato) and ‘al fresco’ dining, which equals a recipe for culinary heaven.
Italy is also home to some of the world’s most magnificent art treasures. The Uffizi Gallery in Florence is one of the world’s oldest museums and houses some of the world’s most famous paintings, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Giotto, Michelangelo and Titian. The roof of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican in Rome is adorned by what is largely considered Michelangelo’s finest work, the fresco of The Last Supper depicting Christ and the apostles.
Certain Italian cities can be regarded as artistic treasures in themselves. The historic centre of the city of Sienna in Tuscany has been classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Its 12th century cathedral (or Duomo) is regarded as one of the finest examples of Italian Romano-Gothic architecture. Venice, a city built on 117 islands surrounded by 177 canals, is often thought of as one of the most romantic in the world. Transport within the city is mainly either by foot using the 400 bridges, or by the iconic gondola. Remarkably, Venice is Europe’s largest urban car-free area. However, the large crowds of tourists the city attracts has caused a unique problem – the large cruise ships that ply the Grand Canal send large tidal floods towards the city, causing it to slowly sink.
If you’re not an art or architecture buff and prefer to spend your holiday on the beach then head to one of the beautiful coasts. Popular destinations include the Italian Riviera near Genoa in the north and the Amalfi Coast (another UNESCO World Heritage Site) to the south of Naples.
So what are you waiting for? Book your dream trip to Italy with Expedia or get brilliant Hotels.com voucher codes, where you will find fantastic offers on flights and accommodation. Get 10% off bookings at Hotels.com until 25/02/12 exclusively at MyVoucherCodes.
When thinking about destinations for your 2012 holiday, Bosnia may not be a place that automatically springs to mind.
However if you want a trip where there is plenty to do and see and as much or as little activity as you want, then Bosnia may just be perfect for you. And if it’s history and culture that you crave then Bosnia has plenty to attract you too.
National Geographic magazine ranked Bosnia as the 3rd Best Adventure Destination for 2012, and is becoming increasingly popular with skiers, hikers and rafters. Due to the many accessible routes through mountains and beside beautiful lakes and villages, this is now a superb destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. Many of the organised routes start off in Sarajevo and manage to include Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman culture, with a modern adventure twist.
A wild, rugged and unspoilt region, it remains one of the last undiscovered places in the Alps, and attracts both adventurers and nature lovers alike. Spectacular gorges, vast rivers, forests and sensational mountain peaks await you in Bosnia. The central Dinar Alps are particularly favoured by hikers as it contains both Mediterranean and Alpine climates. For those of you who enjoy white-water rafting, the area has three rivers and the deepest canyon in Europe to tempt you. The popularity of this sport in this area has made it akin to a national pastime.
For a country that was nearly completely destroyed in recent years due to war it is now in a surprisingly good state. Castles have been patched up, mosques rebuilt, vineyards replanted, towns reconstructed and most of the relics from the war such as craters left by grenades have been smoothed over.
Recently many companies have sprung up offering hiking, (over 85 mountain walks) cycling, rafting and canoeing trips. One of them called Green Visions, works with 20 villages which supply food and accommodation to tourists.
Some of the other tourist attractions that this destination has to offer include:
So if you want to discover a country unspoilt by tourism, full of adventure, activity, culture and history. It simply has to be Bosnia and Herzegovina.
For top holiday offers and discounts remember to check MyVoucherCodes
Images taken from www.exodus.co.uk
Let me make a bold statement…Charles Dickens is the greatest author this country has ever produced!
Only my opinion of course, but I am certainly not alone in considering Mr Dickens the greatest. Tuesday 7th February marks the 200th Anniversary of Charles Dickens’s birth, and events up and down the country plan to mark the bicentenary in the manner it deserves.
Apart from Shakespeare, no other writer, living or dead, has produced as many works considered classics today. And talking of Shakespeare, he is of course our most important writer, but his works are simply not as accessible as Dickens’s are to the mainstream.
The continuing popularity of the author, is validated by the fact that his stories have never gone out of print. His works have transferred to film countless times, and television shows continue to be made that introduce his works to each new generation.
But why, what makes Charles Dickens so different from any other author?
Characters
Dickens’s weird and wonderful world of characters includes some of the most famous ever to appear in print. Just imagine the world of literature without David Copperfield, The Artful Dodger, Mr. Micawber, Little Dorritt, Uriah Heep and of course Ebenezer Scrooge, to name but a few. For me, the fact his words still resonate is largely because of this rich wealth of characters that everyone can still invest in.
Social Issues
Many of his most famous works deal with class, something that still strikes a chord in today’s society. Social matters are currently high in the public conscious, and unfortunately many of the class divisions that so troubled Dickens still continue to impact on all of our lives. Was he alive today, no doubt the whole ‘rich bankers’ dispute would be perfect fodder for a novel.
Language
Dickens was a writer who knew the power of the humble word, and the power that fiction has to express human emotion. His language is incredibly descriptive, richly painting a canvas on which the reader feels they can tread. His works are old-fashioned, and somewhat sentimental at times, but you simply cannot judge by today’s standards. If we were able to travel back to the Victorian era, we would find a world with very different values. Dickens was writing for the present, and he clearly succeeded by enjoying a wider popularity and fame than any previous author during his lifetime.
Comedy
It is a very British thing to turn to humour to times of hardship, and Dickens used this to good effect time and time again, and not always in good taste. His best comedy comes from observation, seeing the humour in the universal truths that bind us together, in much the same way that stand up comics do today. Dickens’s live readings were also said to be filled with humour and performance, and reading the work aloud really does reveal the energy and drama of the language.
Celebrate the nations favourite storyteller with the Vintage Dickens Collection, containg 16 books in paperback for only £26 at The Book People. Plus take advantage of 10% Off Orders Over £20 until 14th February 2012 exclusively a MyVoucherCodes.
Produce a unique and totally personal piece of art – with a little help from the experts at Print Monkey.
Although it may not always register, our homes are truly expressions of our personality. We spend ages getting everything just right, so why should you settle for anything less than perfect. The answer is of course you shouldn’t, especial when it comes to a room focal point. Canvas pictures are all the rage at the moment, and with good reason. The right one can transform a drab area instantly without costing the earth.
But why settle for a beach scene, a country landscape or the often seen city skyline, surely you are more creative than that?
You don’t have to be a professional to take good photographs. Even the most humble digital camera can produce fabulous images. Imagine your family immortalised in canvas, it would be a real talking point for visitors to your home. Everyone has at least one picture that they are proud of, for me it is a shot of the underside of the Eiffel Tower looking up. I had it created as a canvas and it now adorns my wall, so why not do the same?
At Print Monkey it is so easy to upload your photographs, and turn them into unique canvas prints. You can crop your photo, edit the size and even see how it looks on your wall. Print Monkey provide one of the best quality printing services in the UK, and use the latest technology to provide you with the best quality printing so you can be sure your work of art looks amazing. You can even put a filter on to perhaps add a touch of class through the media of black and white.
If you really do not have an image, then why not browse the fantastic selection of stock images, which include everything from animals to abstract patterns. As well as Canvas Prints, you can also design personalised t-shirts and hoodies at Print Monkey. Or alternatively choose from a selection of hilarious ready-made designs.
And just think what a delightful gift a personalised product would make. Personalise something for Valentine’s Day, or with Mothers Day on the horizon what about a canvas print of the whole family. So wether for yourself or as a delightful gift, go create…..
Get an amazing 40% Off ANYTHING IN THE CANVAS RANGE at Print Monkey exclusively from MyVoucherCodes, valid until 14th February 2012.
The Spring/Summer Collection at Agent Provocateur is all about the Seventies and the exploration into the sensual and soft side of this decade. Their designs are inspired by the images of David Hamilton and infused with ideas from watching softly glowing scenes from erotic films, such as Emmanuelle and The Story of O.
The Spring/Summer ad campaign stars French actress Mylène Jampanoï wearing Daena, their gorgeous rose print silk chiffon range. The Daena silk chiffon lingerie set along with the flowing floral gown brings out both the angel and devil to the bedroom.
The spotty chiffon Sprinkle range sports multicoloured dots, red bows and large straps to the classic background black . The Sprinkle range is the definition of fun, with an undertone of suggestion, keeping it subtle but clear.
The intention is in the name; Ariel is truly romantic, yet effortlessly seductive. This range is innocent with its pastel colours, delicate lacing and cute pink bows. The Ariel collection may not have a voice, but in this case it won’t be needed to enchant that special someone …
Gentlemen, this Valentine’s Day make it a good one for your special lady and of course for yourself with the NEW Spring/Summer Collection at Agent Provocateur – It’s irrelevant that we’re still in the grip of a bitter winter, all the more reason to heat it up!
