History and Development of Gin

If you love Gin as much as we do, you’ll want to read this! Several months ago Food Linkers brought the amazing Nordic taste of Napue Gin to Hong Kong, and we have a few gin facts to share! You might be surprised to know that that first gin was advertised as a cure for kidney and stomach problems, gallstones and gout (very similar to whiskey’s beginnings). Though the first confirmed date of mass production can be traced back to the 17th century, its humble beginning started in the 12th century. During this time, people believe that it has the power to protect them against the Plague. Read on to learn more about the turbulent history of Gin!

Juniper Berries. The main botanical used in all gins.

The Start of the Distillation (the 1100’s)

The distillation process originated in the Middle East, which eventually moved to the European continent during the Middle Ages. It was believed that the Benedictine monks located at Salerno utilized the distillation process in order to manufacture alcohol and preserve herbs which include juniper (an important element of gin) that is grown in the hills of Salerno. An early document, the Compendium Salernitana, contained various treatments including a ‘tonic’ that incorporated juniper berries.

The Distillation of Juniper (14th century)

Throughout history, physicians used juniper's due to their medicinal properties. Compounds that have been infused with juniper were used to treat liver, kidney and stomach conditions. When the bubonic plague spread throughout the Europe, many Europeans used the juniper elixir since they believed that it could protect them against the Black Death. Some of them preferred to wear masks filled with juniper to protect them against the pathogens.

Widespread of Distillation (16th Century)

Distillation really started to spread throughout Europe in the 16th Century. This was facilitated by the invention of the printing press during the 1440s that led to the publication of the ‘Liber de Arte Distillandi’. Early distilled spirits had very low alcohol content, and a pretty rough taste. This is due to the early, and very primitive, distillation process which had many limitations- including the removal of impurities. The very first distillation of jenever/genever (the first form of gin), is hard to pin down- there is too much speculation about it. Some say that it was the Salerno monks. However, the first documented gin recipe was written by Hans Sloane, believed to be written at Apeldoorn at around 1495.

Historians are still uncovering new and exciting facts about Gin everyday,  and we’re looking forward to sharing more with you! Most recently, in 2014, Napue Gin was awarded “Best Gin for Gin and Tonic” at the prestigious International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC). This is one of the highest achievements any wine, spirit, gin or tonic can attain. Originating from the world’s northernmost gin and whisky distillery in rural Finland; Napue Gin should definitely be added to your must-taste “Liquor Bucket List”!

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History and Development of Gin

If you love Gin as much as we do, you’ll want to read this! Several months ago Food Linkers brought the amazing Nordic taste of Napue Gin to Hong Kong, and we have a few gin facts to share! You might be surprised to know that that first gin was advertised as a cure for kidney and stomach problems, gallstones and gout (very similar to whiskey’s beginnings). Though the first confirmed date of mass production can be traced back to the 17th century, its humble beginning started in the 12th century. During this time, people believe that it has the power to protect them against the Plague. Read on to learn more about the turbulent history of Gin!

Juniper Berries. The main botanical used in all gins.

The Start of the Distillation (the 1100’s)

The distillation process originated in the Middle East, which eventually moved to the European continent during the Middle Ages. It was believed that the Benedictine monks located at Salerno utilized the distillation process in order to manufacture alcohol and preserve herbs which include juniper (an important element of gin) that is grown in the hills of Salerno. An early document, the Compendium Salernitana, contained various treatments including a ‘tonic’ that incorporated juniper berries.

The Distillation of Juniper (14th century)

Throughout history, physicians used juniper's due to their medicinal properties. Compounds that have been infused with juniper were used to treat liver, kidney and stomach conditions. When the bubonic plague spread throughout the Europe, many Europeans used the juniper elixir since they believed that it could protect them against the Black Death. Some of them preferred to wear masks filled with juniper to protect them against the pathogens.

Widespread of Distillation (16th Century)

Distillation really started to spread throughout Europe in the 16th Century. This was facilitated by the invention of the printing press during the 1440s that led to the publication of the ‘Liber de Arte Distillandi’. Early distilled spirits had very low alcohol content, and a pretty rough taste. This is due to the early, and very primitive, distillation process which had many limitations- including the removal of impurities. The very first distillation of jenever/genever (the first form of gin), is hard to pin down- there is too much speculation about it. Some say that it was the Salerno monks. However, the first documented gin recipe was written by Hans Sloane, believed to be written at Apeldoorn at around 1495.

Historians are still uncovering new and exciting facts about Gin everyday,  and we’re looking forward to sharing more with you! Most recently, in 2014, Napue Gin was awarded “Best Gin for Gin and Tonic” at the prestigious International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC). This is one of the highest achievements any wine, spirit, gin or tonic can attain. Originating from the world’s northernmost gin and whisky distillery in rural Finland; Napue Gin should definitely be added to your must-taste “Liquor Bucket List”!

Connect with Food Linkers

Website: http://www.foodlinkers.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FoodLinkers

Schneider Pens Overview: Stylish High-Quality Pens at Affordable Prices

When it comes to writing content using a paper and a pen, you must have the best pen- it’s just so much more satisfying to see smooth, clear writing emerge, as well as providing high-quality results! One of the best innovative writing brands used by successful writers and professionals is Schneider Pens. You can find them in Hong Kong at Planethome (Bed & Bath) Ltd in Tsim Sha Tsui or you can always visit Le Luxury’s online eBay shops to buy these professional, high-quality pens at very affordable prices.

Here are a few of the different types of pens Schneider offers through Le Luxury. Learning the qualities of each of these pens will help you buy the appropriate one that will meet your intended purpose to perfection.

Fave Ballpoint Pen

This is a stylish pen that contains high quality waterproof ink. Its barrel is robust enough to make it withstand substantial force- it’s tough! Environmentally friendly, with the plug and play system it can use a variety of refill formats (recommended refill Office 765).

Job Highlighter

This highlighter features intensive colors and light-resistant ink that is universal for standard, copy and fax paper along with a with chisel tip for line widths 1mm and 5mm. Owing to its innovative evaporation resistant barrel, it is estimated that the ink can remain wet and usable for years without drying up. You can highlight up to 15,000 words and its ink reservoir will still have enough ink!

K20 Icy Colors

This is a unique pen that comes with slightly soft barrel for your hand, providing an easy comfortable grip. Thanks to the revolutionary ViscoGlide Technology from Schneider, the K20 offers the ultimate, easy gliding writing experience.  It also has waterproof ISO 12757-2 standard ink which will make your numbers stay put- even if they encounter water or moisture. This pen uses the plug and play system, which makes it easy to use a variety of refill formats

Line-Up Fineliners

These fine liners come packed in a well-designed pencil case stand. The neat appearance of the colors when you unfold them gives one the desire to start using them right away! There are four different versions of the Line-up including the 4, 8, 16 and 32 versions and they all come with different colors. When folded, it becomes small enough to fit into a small handbag or backpack The case is durable and it can be used as a pen holder.

Suprimo Ballpoint Pen

Ballpoint pen in fresh, transparent colours with rubberised grip zone providing a secure hold for relaxed writing. It comes with a waterproof ink that makes numbers to stay on the paper for long even when touched by water. Blue ink and environmentally friendly with clever Plug+Play system giving it the ability to use a variety of refill formats.

Ready to snag one for yourself? Then head on over to Planet home (Bed & Bath) Ltd in Tsim Sha Tsui or stop by Le Luxury’s online store on eBay now!

Connect with Le Luxury

Website: http://leluxury.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeLuxuryHK/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leluxury

Shop Le Luxury eBay stores

http://stores.ebay.com/Seanhkg

http://stores.ebay.com/megha123

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Pilates: The Workout that Everyone Can Do and Should Try

Pilates has grown to be one of the most well-known fitness systems in the world. And here at T8 Fitness, we are all about helping you achieve your health and fitness goals! T8 Fitness has been supplying Hong Kong and Asia with the very best in Pilates, Yoga, Fitness and Rehabilitation products and equipment for more than 5 years now!

Pilates is suitable for all people, in their quest to be healthy and happy and should be a part of all fitness or rehab programmes. Despite some of the intimidating equipment, Pilates is a workout that everyone can do and should try. The benefits are simply amazing. Whether you have a chronic illness, are starting from scratch, or are looking to build your athletic performance, here are reasons why Pilates is for you!

Perhaps you have a chronic illness or pain and you are finding it hard to exercise? Pilates was created to help those battling illnesses and pain!

• As a young child, Joseph Pilates battled asthma and other conditions that left him sick. He turned to exercise and athletics to battle these ailments and was always studying various exercise regimens to expand his knowledge base. At the outbreak of World War I, Joe was interned as an “enemy alien” with other German nationals. During his internment, Joe developed an exercise program using makeshift equipment out of hospital beds and springs to help bedridden patients to exercise against resistance. After witnessing the amazing results of his work, he continued to refine his exercise program and the equipment to help rehabilitate dancers, and others in need of care.

Or maybe you are finding it hard to squeeze any fitness time into your hectic schedule?

• Pilate’s workouts usually only take about an hour each session. That being said they are quite intense, offering results you will see and feel quickly.  Not only that, but you will feel a sense of accomplishment which will raise your productivity throughout the rest of the day.

Maybe you are an athlete or avid sports person looking to improve your performance?

• Learning control, gaining strength and efficient and graceful movement will certainly benefit all other activities- and your whole life! Pilates is a great addition to every workout including, running, yoga, and high intensity interval training (HIIT).
• We concentrate our resources on providing the best products and services to all of our clients, and urge all Pilates, Yoga and sports enthusiasts to check out our incredible selection of grip socks- to help you hold your favorite poses much more safely, with zero slippage! Both Toesox and Tavi Noir grip socks are designed to make indoor exercise safe and fun!

So whether you’re looking for a workout to do in your own home, like with the lightweight, portable Typhoon 1 Pilates Ring(the perfect home workout accessory!) or a gym owner that is looking to outfit their studio with Pilates equipment- T8 Fitness is the supplier you are looking for!

Connect with T8 Fitness

Shop Online: http://www.t8fitness.com/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/T8Fitness
Twitter: https://twitter.com/t8fitness  

Credit: Prosperity Research Digital Agency(PRDA) provides branded content catered to your business, in English, and Traditional or Simplified Chinese.

Taste of Scan: Pork Taco's

Craving a cheery family evening, made perfect with a yummy homemade dinner? No need to wait for Taco Tuesday, Scan’s tasty flower-fed pork is perfect for pork taco’s any day of the week! From Hawaiian Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa to authentic Sizzling Pork Tacos- Nordic pork is super versatile!

Scan’s flower-fed pork contains up to 4x the omega-3’s when compared to conventional pork. The high level of Omega-3’s helps the healthy(yummy!) fats melt faster and become deliciously infused while cooking- creating juicy, succulent pork meat!

Tacos don’t need to be fancy, but everyone loves them! It's really hard to be in a grumpy mood when you find out it's taco night. People tend to linger over their meal, enjoying good food and good company- a general feeling of good energy hovers over the table. Tomorrow will be another meal, hopefully one that everyone likes. But tonight is pork taco night and everyone’s happy!

Rather than a store bought taco mix pack, create this simple homemade blend of basic pantry spices. It takes no more than five minutes to measure it all out and blend it up, and provides excellent flavor to a comforting, uncomplicated meal.

Sizzling Pork Tacos

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Add this homemade seasoning mix  to 2lbs of Scan’s pork collar, sliced into thin 1/2-inch strips or cubes (ground pork works also!), Marinate for 15-30 mins, then cook it up on a wok or skillet. You now have an incredible dinner to serve your family. Simply set out these heavenly fried strips of pork, taco shells, and toppings, and let everyone craft their own unique creations for dinner!

Scan’s premium flower fed nordic pork, makes every dinner perfect!

Connect with Scan

Website:  http://www.flodinsfood.asia/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TasteOfScan/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tasteofscan/

Credit: Prosperity Research Digital Agency(PRDA) provides branded content catered to your business, in English, and Traditional or Simplified Chinese.

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Yoga, Pilates, and The Best Grilled Pork Ribeye Steak ever!

Yoga Tips for Beginners

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At last, you have decided to take upon the long journey and experience of yoga. Cool, comfy clothing is a must and here to help is A Day with Fé; creator of a unique line of lovely, comfy and inspiring activewear designed for active individuals!

Countless times have the benefits of yoga been proved through scientific studies. There is a reason many successful, famous people have yoga as a part of their daily routines. That being said yoga can be challenging for any beginner, therefore we have taken it upon ourselves to create a list of tips which will improve your overall experience and enable you to improve your yoga skills on a daily basis.

Polestar Pilates Host Centers throughout Asia

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Get started on your journey to becoming a Pilates Teacher with friendly, interactive and expert courses by Polestar Pilates Asia! Polestar Pilates Asia’s Host Centers are the perfect opportunity for you to engage in some Pilates training from the best Pilates trainers in the business. Polestar Pilates Asia organizes courses at Host Sites in Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, China and Japan throughout the year.

Polestar’s flexible design allows you to attend courses on weekends, minimizing time away from home and work. Courses are spaced to allow you time to study, observe and practice based on mastery of the material and the amount of time and energy you can devote to your training. Take a look at the online information and contact your nearest Host Centre to get started.

Grilled Pork Ribeye Steak : Taste Of Scan

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There are too many times when pork simply doesn’t get the praise it deserves. Perfectly at home as a simple supper yet also has a place on the table at a nice holiday dinner.  Scan’s flower fed pork is easy to prepare, ensuring you’re feeding your family a delicious, tender, and flavorful meal. Scan’s flower fed pork can be cooked any way you like- the high-quality fat is quick to prepare and stays juicy and tender longer, so cooking time is less critical.

The Pork Ribeye Steak in particular is incredibly tender and lean.  This cut originates from the center of the loin in the rib area, and can be purchased bone-in or boneless. These are sometimes referred to as a rib chop or pork chop and are one of the best cuts for grilling.

Sparkle with Le Luxury: The Swarovski Zodiac Collection

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Naturally brilliant, Swarovski’s fashionable, sparkling jewelry collections have proven most successful. Le Luxury’s eBay shops specialize in bringing these exceptional, authentic items at amazing, rock bottom prices. With the Swarovski Zodiac Collection, they’ve really outdone themselves when designing the mesmerizing, dazzling charms which fits right into any type of look at a reasonable price. They even went a step ahead by designing not only the twelve astrological signs, spread around the Western world but also one representing the different values in the Chinese calendar.

It’s time to let your zodiac sign sparkle among dazzling interchangeable charms that transform any look!