Rebecca May
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💻Journalist, 📺 presenter, 🎤interviewer | @Guardian @MetroUK @NME @Cosmopolitan & more | @TIMESUPUK Critics member | Previously editor @MTV
Articles by Rebecca May
Inside the secret psychology of horror games - and why we can’t help pushing play
The sound came first. In a San Francisco Bart train tunnel, Don Veca took his recorder and captured a train’s metallic roar – “like demons in agony, beautifully ugly,” he remembers. That recording became one of the most chilling sounds in 2008’s Dead Space. “We dropped that screeching, industrial noise at full volume right after the vacuum silence – creating one of the game’s most jarring sonic contrasts,” Veca, who made horror history as the audio director for the Dead Space games, recalls.
Magic, mutiny, and a mission that could save – or doom – the world: The Wheel of Time is back, and the new hotly-anticipated season promises to be bigger, bolder, and, as its star Rosamund Pike explains, at least four times better than even before. Prime Video’s epic fantasy juggernaut returns for a third season this March, and according to Pike, it’s the most intense yet.
30 of the best luxury gift ideas for Mother’s Day 2025
Mother’s Day is the perfect time to spoil the most important woman in your life – and if you’re looking for a gift that feels extra special, you’ve come to the right place. Whether she loves indulgent spa days, fine champagne, stylish accessories, or cutting-edge tech, we’ve found the very best thoughtful, luxurious gifts she’ll truly appreciate.
51 of the best luxury gift ideas for Mother’s Day 2025
Mother’s Day is the perfect time to spoil the most important woman in your life – and if you’re looking for a gift that feels extra special, you’ve come to the right place. Whether she loves indulgent spa days, fine champagne, stylish accessories, or cutting-edge tech, we’ve found the very best thoughtful, luxurious gifts she’ll truly appreciate.
The Aesthetic Edit: I tried the Platinum HydraFacial at sk:n Harley Street - and my skin has never looked fresher
What if you could erase dullness, unclog pores, and glow like a dewy goddess – all in under an hour? Say hello to the Platinum HydraFacial, a high-tech, no-fuss facial that deep cleans, hydrates, and rejuvenates your skin in six powerhouse steps. No downtime, no stress… just seriously glowing skin. At the award-winning sk:n Harley Street, known as the UK’s leading skin clinic, this treatment has become a go-to for hydration-boosting, complexion-clearing magic.
It’s officially ‘Margarita Month’ - here’s where to celebrate with luxe cocktails and free tacos in London
Good news tequila fans! One of London’s most decadent five-star boutique hotels, The Mandrake, is turning National Margarita Day (February 22nd, but you knew that already, right marg lovers?) into a month-long celebration of tequila, tacos, and high-end mixology. Partnering with Patrón Tequila, the luxury hotel’s YOPO Mezcal & Taco Bar is launching ‘Margarita Month’, running from 22nd February to 22nd March 2025, offering three limited-edition margaritas with curated taco pairings.
Surviving half term? Here’s how tired parents can get a free premium coffee from Yolk this week
Half term is in full swing, and for parents, that means early starts, endless snack demands, and a whole lot of running around. If your energy levels are dipping, one of our favourite premium coffee spots, Yolk, has a little pick-me-up for you. This week, parents can claim a totally free barista-made coffee with any in-store purchase – just say the secret code “HELPME” at the till.
Put a ring on it - and get free pizza for life at Prezzo this Valentine’s Day
Thinking of proposing this Valentine’s Day? Not sure where to pop the question? Well, here’s one option that might whet your appetite – beloved Italian restaurant chain Prezzo is giving couples a unique incentive: free pizza for life. Anyone who pops the question at one of their 96 locations on February 14th will receive a free anniversary meal every year, up to the value of £150.
22 of the best last-minute luxury Valentine’s gifts for him
So, you left it late? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re shopping for a cocktail connoisseur, a tech enthusiast, a man of style, or a foodie who knows his way around the kitchen, this carefully curated selection of last-minute luxury Valentine’s gifts delivers big impact with zero panic. From exceptional spirits and fine Champagne to high-end accessories, unforgettable experiences, and indulgent treats, these picks are guaranteed to impress.
24 of the best last-minute luxury Valentine’s gifts for her
Valentine’s Day is the ultimate excuse to spoil the one you love. So, this year, forget the cliché gifts and go all out with something she’ll actually adore. Whether she’s a beauty lover, a jewellery fan, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply someone who deserves the finer things in life, we’ve curated the most stylish, indulgent, and unforgettable gifts for her. From luxe self-care treats to statement accessories and romantic classics with a twist, this is your ultimate guide to getting it right.
This avant-garde fashion ballet performance in a luxe hotel is set to be one of London Fashion Week’s hottest tickets
A catwalk-turned-ballet performance is set to be one of the hottest tickets this London Fashion Week. On February 20th, one of London Fashion Week’s most unconventional shows will take over the luxury Middle Eight hotel in Covent Garden, fusing fashion, ballet, and art in an intimate, one-night-only performance. At the centre of it all is designer Katie Ko, a rising name in the fashion world known for turning fine art into wearable couture.
Wait! The Sims is a lot bleaker than I remember
When I was growing up, the genre-defining dollhouse sim The Sims was the ultimate escape. I’d build dream homes, cultivate a neighbourhood of weird and wonderful friends and live out a fantasy adult life.
The 5 best punk songs, according to the Sex Pistols' Glen Matlock
From Bob Marley and the Sex Pistols to Oasis and Radiohead – this is the work of music photography icon Dennis Morris The intersection of music and photography has long been a space for visual storytelling, and few have navigated it as masterfully as Dennis …
Your ultimate Valentine’s Day dining guide: London’s most romantic luxury restaurants for the perfect date
Valentine’s Day calls for something special, and thankfully, London has some seriously world-class dining in breathtaking settings to offer. Whether you’re after Michelin-starred menus, intimate candlelit corners, lively party vibes or stunning sky-high views, there’s a restaurant out there for a night you won’t forget. Here’s our hand-selected pick of the best luxury dining spots to impress your date (or simply treat yourself) this Valentine’s Day.
Boqueria review: Escape the cold with the best taste of Spain in Battersea
For a tapas lover like me, Boqueria in Battersea is a hidden gem that I know I’ll be frequenting for 2025 and beyond. Seeking a break from London’s icy winter, I was ready to find a slice of sunny Spain close to home – and South West London tapas restaurant Boqueria delivered. Just a stone’s throw from Battersea Park, this cosy yet airy spot has been serving the local area for the past ten years – and now you can count us as amongst the faithful regulars of Battersea’s first tapas restaurant.
NYX Hotel London Holborn review: A glamorous playground in the heart of the city
Glamorous, quirky, and full of surprises: we’ve found a London hotel that’s as much a destination as the city itself – and it’s shot to the top of our favourites in the city. The NYX Hotel London Holborn combines bold design, luxurious comfort, and an electric atmosphere to create a stay to remember. Nestled in the middle of vibrant Holborn, the design hotel is perfectly placed for exploring London’s iconic landmarks, with the British Museum, Covent Garden, and Soho all within walking distance.
23 of the best last minute luxury Christmas gifts on Amazon that will arrive before Christmas
If you’ve left your Christmas gift shopping to the last minute but still want to impress, we have good news, straight from Santa: every single one of these premium picks is available to order on Amazon right now, and will arrive before Christmas day. Even better, every single one offers elegance, quality and surprises in equal measure.
Eat, drink and be merry: The best Christmas menus in London for 2024
The best part of Christmas is getting together, and one of our favourite ways to do that? With a fab, festive feast. Right now, London’s best restaurants are pulling out all the stops, crafting with show-stopping festive menus well deserving of your Christmas celebrations. From decadent multi-course banquets to creative spins on Christmas classics, some of our favourite spots in the city are serving up the ultimate in Christmas indulgence this month.
Hundreds of schools closed by snow as UK goes into 0C deep freeze ahead of Storm Bert
Hundreds of schools closed by snow as UK goes into 0C deep freeze ahead of Storm Bert The UK is bracing for a huge cold snap, with temperatures plummeting to 0°C and below in some parts, leading to hundreds of school closures and …
Workplace Safety Failures: Lessons from Recent High-Profile Cases
Workplace safety remains a concern across industries, as recent prosecutions underscore the devastating impact of non-compliance. Below, we explore three notable cases highlighting the severe financial and human costs of neglecting health and safety obligations. Saskatchewan Power Corporation faced a hefty $700,000 fine after a worksite incident in May 2022 near Sandy Bay, Saskatchewan, where a worker was exposed to high-voltage electricity, resulting in serious injury.
16 of the best personalised luxury gift ideas for Christmas
Nothing feels quite as special as receiving a personalised gift at Christmas. Not only does it show extra thought and care, but you’re guaranteed that it will be a gift they don’t already have – and that they’ll cherish forever. From stunning bespoke jewellery to custom fragrances and monogrammed leather goods that will truly stand the test of time, these Christmas gift ideas are all suitably Luxe-approved.
5 jazz records that everyone should listen to, according to Ezra Collective
Yellowstone either pulled a bait-and-switch to write Kevin Costner out of Season 5, or we're being set up for an epic reunion. Or, both could be …
The art of fine whisky: The Glenlivet’s 55-Year-Old comes with a magnificent art masterpiece
It’s already one of the most famous malts in the worlds – but now, In celebration of its 200th anniversary, The Glenlivet has launched its most prestigious single malt whisky to date: The Glenlivet Eternal Collection, First Edition, 55-Year-Old. This rare whisky, limited to just 100 bottles worldwide, promises to be an exceptional expression of craftsmanship, not just in flavour but in design too, and a seriously special collectible for fans.
Kanishka by Atul Kochhar review: Is this the best Indian fine dining restaurant in London?
I may have just found the best Indian fine dining restaurant in London – and now is the time to visit. Now, I must admit that I don’t need an excuse to try Kanishka by Atul Kochhar, a restaurant I’ve heard is one of the finest Indian restaurants in the capital. But if I did, now would be the perfect one, as 7th to 13th October officially marks National Curry Week.
BBC star hailed as a hero after saving woman trying to drown herself in the sea
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London’s most legendary Halloween party is back… prepare for the most luxurious Halloween bash ever
London’s most luxurious Halloween party is back. If you like your scares on the exclusive side – with a side of champagne to settle any nerves, naturally – you can’t miss the iconic Home House’s legendary Halloween party, which will return this month. The fabled annual party, famed for being the best in the Capital, will make its much-anticipated return to the iconic London member’s club on 25th October.
Famous actors who almost played the Joker
With the release of Todd Phillips’ standalone 2019 film Joker, Joaquin Phoenix joined the ranks of Heath Ledger, Jack Nicholson and Mark Hamill to take on DC’s totally iconic and completely unhinged Clown Prince Of Crime. The actor won an Oscar for his role as Arthur Fleck, which he’ll reprise in new sequel Joker: Folie à Deux.
Katie Price accused of photoshop fail over 'extremely filtered' snaps of her facelift results
Here's why more women are skipping fillers and opting for a facelift Because we both know the limits of even the most diligent retinol routine, an actor famous for her kittenish smile and tailored separates levels with …
What the Car? A racing game with a ‘complete disregard for actual vehicles’
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What the Car? A racing game with a ‘complete disregard for actual vehicles’
Microsoft Cares About Your Privacy Microsoft and our third-party vendors use cookies to store and access information such as unique IDs to deliver, maintain and improve our services and ads. If you agree, MSN and Microsoft Bing will personalise the content and ads that you see. You can select ‘I Accept’ to consent to these uses or click on ‘Manage preferences’ to review your options and exercise your right to object to Legitimate Interest where used.
What the Car? A racing game with a ‘complete disregard for actual vehicles’
Imagine a new racing video game. Whatever you’ve pictured, What the Car? is not it. In a world where racing games pride themselves on the ever-increasing detail and authenticity of their driving experiences, pushing the speedometer towards realism with cutting-edge game engines as well as perfectly simulated motor ones, this is the opposite. This car is literally running around on foot. Described as “an absurdly silly adventure full of racing, laughs, and surprises,” What the Car?
Olympics star dies after being 'set on fire by ex-boyfriend'
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UFO 50: A low-res, high-concept anthology of imaginary retro games
‘Every game could exist as a full release’ … UFO 50 video game artwork. Photograph: Mossmouth When it comes to video games, one thing is universal: releasing one is tough. But releasing 50? At once? That’s another boss level entirely. This is the challenge for the team behind UFO 50. This much anticipated 8-bit anthology of retro-styled games is finally due to release this September, seven years after its announcement. With 50 games included, the wait is justified.
Sim-ply unfilmable? Inside The Sims movie that never was
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Sim-ply unfilmable? Inside The Sims movie that never was
Microsoft Cares About Your Privacy Microsoft and our third-party vendors use cookies to store and access information such as unique IDs to deliver, maintain and improve our services and ads. If you agree, MSN and Microsoft Bing will personalise the content and ads that you see. You can select ‘I Accept’ to consent to these uses or click on ‘Manage preferences’ to review your options and exercise your right to object to Legitimate Interest where used.
Travel - The Luxe Review
The Luxe Review is a premium lifestyle recommendation, review and news magazine, showcasing the best in travel, technology, culture, dining and style. Reach out! We welcome editorial enquiries: editorial@theluxereview.co.uk Work with The Luxe Review: promotions@theluxereview.co.uk Boutique B2B/B2C content creation agency: The Luxe Review offers a full turnkey copywriting service. We can write press releases, create engaging blog posts, and amplify your brand voice.
MuMu Clubhouse review: Thailand’s new beach oasis is the ultimate destination for luxe music lovers
There’s nothing more dreamy than a sun soaked afternoon-that-turns-to-balmy-night spent lazed away at a lavish beach club. So, when we heard about Thailand’s hottest new opening, MuMu Clubhouse, we had to experience it for ourselves. Set in the heart of Phuket Island, the new luxe new beach club is set on soft white sand against the the sparkling blue waters of Phuket’s largest man-made lagoon by day, and a next-level music experience by night.
MuMu Clubhouse review: Thailand’s new beach oasis is the ultimate destination for luxe music lovers
There’s nothing more dreamy than a sun soaked afternoon-that-turns-to-balmy-night spent lazed away at a lavish beach club. So, when we heard about Thailand’s hottest new opening, MuMu Clubhouse, we had to experience it for ourselves. Set in the heart of Phuket Island, the new luxe new beach club is set on soft white sand against the the sparkling blue waters of Phuket’s largest man-made lagoon by day, and a next-level music experience by night.
Heliot Steak House review: Sizzling Las Vegas glamour in the heart of Leicester Square
In the heart of Leicester Square, there’s a steakhouse that doesn’t just serve meals; it stages an experience. But, you might not see it at first glance – you need to know where to look. This is Heliot Steak House, a glamorous gem nestled inside the iconic Hippodrome Casino, where the glitz of Las Vegas meets the charm of the 1930s, for a West End dining destination quite unlike any other.
Asa Butterfield and Cora Kirk’s 5 favourite Christmas movies
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Meet Australia’s first luxury perfume house: An exclusive interview with Goldfield & Banks founder Dimitri Weber
Luxury does not necessarily mean heritage. That’s especially true of Australia’s first ever luxury perfume house, Goldfield & Banks – remarkable for more than pioneering perfume from the land down under. Not only are every single one of its high-end fragrances unisex, but its unique ingredients make for scents rather unlike any other. It’s no wonder that the perfume house has been described as the “modern darling” of the perfume world.
Bernie Dieter’s Club Kabarett review: The ultimate saucy Soho spectacle
I don’t know about you, but when I think about London’s Soho, I expect ripped fishnet tights, the world’s best male pole dancing, and perhaps spinning sister acrobats writhing from the roof. Which is why the newly opened Bernie Dieter’s Club Kabarett is the perfect addition to Soho’s nightlife. It delivers all of the above and then some with full camp confidence, set in the wonderful new Underbelly Boulevard live venue, following sell-out seasons in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Japan.
Universal's Halloween Horror Nights: the scariest moments revealed
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Laidback luxury, beachfront DJs, and 'push-to-order' sushi make this resort a Marbs must
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Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth’s first demo reminded us to expect the unexpected
If Final Fantasy 7 Remake was shrouded in mystery, its sequel, and the second in the trilogy of remakes, might be even more so.
A Really Haunted Loud House (TV Movie 2023) | Comedy
Lincoln and his best friend, Clyde, struggle to decide whether to participate in the Loud family Spooktacular, attend their friend, Xander's, party, or go trick-or-treating on Halloween.Lincoln and his best friend, Clyde, struggle to decide whether to participate in the Loud family Spooktacular, attend their friend, Xander's, party, or go trick-or-treating on Halloween.Lincoln and his best friend, Clyde, struggle to decide whether to participate in the Loud family Spooktacular, attend their...
The Disneyland Hotel reopening: 10 things to know about Disneyland Paris’ most luxe hotel
Calling all aspiring princes and princesses: The most iconic hotel at Disneyland Paris has been totally redesigned with a new concept – Disney royalty. If you’ve ever wanted to meet (or become) Disney royalty, this is the premier place in the world to do it. That means the entire five-star hotel has been transformed into a magical kingdom with exquisite regal details, luxury amenities fit for a king or queen, and a royal retreat full of Disney princesses waiting to meet you.
Dungeons of Hinterberg: a game of hack ’n’ slash ’n’ schnitzels in the Austrian Alps
Dungeon slaying video games have severely lacked one essential element, until now: toasting an epic monster battle with a well-deserved schnitzel. At least, that’s what the team at Vienna-based Microbird Games has decided, prompting the creation of forthcoming action role-playing game, Dungeons of Hinterberg.
Barbie joins P&O cruises for summer holidays
This Barbie is a sailor! Just when you thought Barbie’s world domination was complete (see: the most anticipated movie of 2023, the biggest cinema opening day of the year, and even being said to ‘save cinema’ with the best ticket sales for years, according to The Telegraph), now, the iconic toy is set to conquer the sea as well as the land.
EA Sports FC 24: the Fifa follow-up brings women’s football and slick play styles to the fore
The world of football is strange and unpredictable. Leicester City’s 2016 Premier League win. Diego Maradona’s Hand of God. Sylvester Stallone playing in goal in Escape to Victory. And then, in May 2022, Electronic Arts lost the $20bn Fifa licence, putting a sudden end to the world’s bestselling sports game. The split came after the football body demanded double the previous $150m sum to use its brand. Huge corporations falling out over eye-popping amounts of money?
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