The best… cycling equipment
Crankbrothers y12 Made up of 12 components, including eight wrenches and two screwdrivers, this sleek multitool is sturdy, simple to operate, and should fit in your pocket (£19.36; www.bikes24. co.uk).
Hiplok DX Y No lock is completely thief-proof, but the DX has a double-locking mechanism that makes it particularly tough to break. It’s designed to clip onto a strap or belt when you’re not using it – and if you lose the keys, Hiplok can make you a new set (£70; www.hiplok.com).
Lazer Blade This helmet fits snugly and comfortably, and is adjusted by a roller on top rather than a dial at the rear – leaving ample space for long hair. Its 22 vents help keep you cool, and keep the weight down, too (£80; www.lazersport.co.uk).
Zefal Air Profil FC02 This minipump is just 18cm long, making it genuinely portable. It comes with a flexible hose attachment – so you won’t have to worry about damaging your valves when you’re exerting lots of pressure (£25; www.tredz.co.uk).
Garmin Varia Radar This smart rear light has a built-in radar system, which detects vehicles from up to 140 metres away. It then lights up and flashes to alert the approaching driver (£160; www.garmin.com).
Burma’s Irrawaddy River
A 14-day Yangon guided tour and Belmond Orcaella cruise, led by expert Dr MarettCrosby, costs from £6,533pp full board (excl. flights). 0207384 2332, www.cazloyd.com. Arrive 23 January.
German Christmas break
A 4-night stay at the Scandic Berlin Kurfürstendamm, Charlottenburg, well sited for world-class shopping, costs from £198pp, incl. Stansted flights. www.expedia.co.uk. Depart 28 November.
Luxury in Malaysia
Call 01293-762456 to book a 10-night break – 3 nights at Berjaya Times Square, Kuala Lumpur; 7 at Parkroyal Penang – from £849pp b&b, incl. flights. www.hayesandjarvis.co.uk. Depart 2 December.
Festive shopping break
Get your Christmas gifts at Bicester Designer Village during a night’s stay at nearby Fawsley Hall Hotel & Spa in Northamptonshire. From £199 incl. dinner. 0845-458 0901, www.handpickedhotels.co.uk.