Healthy Flapjack Recipe...

I made these healthy flapjacks the other day- copying from Mrs Jackson's blog as I was instantly drawn to their low-calorie element. 88 calories a slice?! Even though they were nice, I undercooked them a bit, put whole hazelnuts in them (they needed to be chopped), and overloaded on the dried fruit so the oat to fruit ratio was 2:4, when it should've been 4:2- a very important matter! So, I decided it would be fair to adapt it and perfect it before I do a blog post on it. I admit. I did add some extra ingredients that aren't on the original, just to make them a bit more wholesome and healthy so I can always eat them as a breakfast on the go. Also, with being 88 calories a slice- you can totally afford to put more ingredients in, and if their healthier it's even better. Here is the finished and final healthy flapjack recipe: 

200g/7oz Porridge Oats

300ml Apple Juice

2 tbsp Maple Syrup

2 tbsp Honey

2 tbsp Milled Flaxseed

40g Whitworth's Cinnamon Apples

30g Pumpkin Seeds

40g Chopped Hazelnuts

55g Californian Raisins

55g Dried Cranberries

1. Pre-heat the oven to 170 degrees celsius and line a shallow square baking tin with greaseproof paper.

2. Pour the juice, maple syrup and honey into a saucepan and lightly heat until it simmers- stirring it occasionally so it heats through evenly.

3. Once it's simmering, add the porridge oats. If the juice isn't fully absorbed, then heat it lightly so the juice just glazes the oats. 

4. Remove the oat mixture off the heat and add the chopped hazelnuts, cinnamon apples, pumpkin seeds, raisins, flaxseed and dried cranberries. Mix these into the oats- making sure all the ingredients are evenly spread.

5. Pour the mixture into the lined baking tin and push it down into the corners, so it is tightly packed in there!

6. Put in the oven for 40 minutes, until it is golden brown on top and doesn't feel too soft to touch (if you press your finger down in the centre, it should have a chewy/sticky texture and bounce back to it's original shape).

7. Leave to cool before cutting into 9 even squares. This is where a square baking tin comes in handy as it ensures equal sizes!
8. I then put them on a flat baking tray and baked them in the oven for 7 minutes- just to coat the outer edges with a golden brown. This is of course optional, but I like them to have a crunch on the outside and then be soft in the middle.

You can adapt this recipe according to your own taste, or if you want them to have less/more calories. What I love about this recipe is that it is all natural ingredients- even all the sugary stuff. They are perfect for an afternoon/morning snack and stay fresh for about 7 days. I'll definitely be making more of these over the next few weeks whilst I'm still at home because I definitely don't have all of these ingredients and equipment at uni. However, saying that, most of these ingredients are so useful anyway so porridge oats and maple syrup might be on my weekly shopping list from now on!

x

Pinterest-Inspired Bedroom Decor

Whenever I need some design inspiration, Pinterest is my go-to website. Even though some of the stuff (okay, most) are rather on the extreme and luxurious scale, it's sometimes doesn't hurt to have a look and wish that I owned it. I like to think of it as setting myself a goal! 

Recently, my bedroom has needed a bit of TLC. I came back from university and had a bit of a crisis as I realise I'm going to be entering a new decade with the same pictures on my wall as of when I left school. Also, with being a student and on a low-budget, I couldn't really afford to re-do my room entirely, just say- a bit of an 'uplift'.  I'm a lover of soft-furnishings, whether that be cushions, throws etc. and of photographs, so these were all essential items in improving my room. These items are also important as you can change them as fashion changes- making your room evolve as you do. 

I began to change my room by starting with the bed. As my room is quite small, I can only fit a single bed in there, so I dress it up with loads of cushions and a staple, floral bed set to give the room a bit of vibrancy. I got these cushions from Primark and Wilkinsons and they were no more than £8 each and the bedding is from Debenhams. I always feel that as long as they don't look cheap, you shouldn't break the bank on interior pieces as you can then change it whenever you want and still get your moneys worth. I chose a mixture of blue-grey and pale grey soft cushions, and fluffy pale grey cushions. I then finished it off with a fuchsia fluffy cushion. By having a accent pillow, you can really accentuate the main colour in the room which finalises the rooms theme. This colour highlights the fuchsia fairy lights, the plum lamp and curtains, and the pink in the duvet cover. I also have a light grey throw which isn't pictured. I love replacing the generic white and creams with a pale grey as it has the softness and brightness required in preventing the room feeling too dark and crowded. I also have a similar taupe colour on the walls. I find it makes the room feel more homely and cosy than a pure white, which can in some cases be quite harsh and cold. 

I love having my photos on my wall like this as it reminds me of a scrapbook collage. I feel this really brightens the room and makes your bedroom feel more personal yet authentic. These photos are printed by photobox, and were sent in the post so quickly! What I love about photobox is that they allow you to connect to your Instagram and Facebook when ordering photos so you can go through and select the ones you want. If your like me and have most of your recent photos not saved on your computer, this process of doing it is amazing, let alone so fast. Photobox also tell you the quality of the photo before they print it, so you can then make any necessary adjustments to the image before ordering. I stuck these to my wall with blu-tac, which I know, is bad for the paint but who will see it with a photo on top of it anyway? The jewellery holder is nailed to the wall and some of the photos are held onto the wall by just slotting the photo behind it. I got this holder as a gift but you can get them online for only £10. They are perfect for necklaces as no-one wants tangled chains and broken clasps, and wasting time looking for that one necklace that goes with the outfit your wearing. If you don't have one of these, what are you doing with your jewellery? How are your necklaces coping?!

Some tips when decorating/makeover-ing your bedroom:

1. Think of it as an outfit- you wouldn't pair your running trainers with a patterned cocktail dress. Have one 'main' pattern in your room and then highlight the colours in this pattern with block colours in your soft furnishing and accessories. Or, if you are really interior-savvy, team patterns that fit under one theme such as geometric, floral, stripes, or paisley. If you are really brave, you can always join themes together if they completely colour-cordinated. You can be lazy too. Just walk into a shop and buy the entire bedroom display show. But if you're like me, do the cheaper option and don't do that. 

2. Less is more- you don't want to overwhelm any visitors with an explosion of patterns and colours. Stick to a colour palette of 4 compatible colours. My colours are fuchsia, pale grey, blue-grey, and a small amount of navy (in the duvet). Same rule applies to your stuff. I hate clutter. I know its your room, but just think if you really need it. If you have a lot of stuff, then look at storage as there are loads of different, discreet ways you can hide your stuff away whilst still looking good. Trust me, the organisation of it all will make such a difference!

3. Cheap is not necessarily bad- as I have said before, cheap interior accessories are cheap because people's style changes rapidly and so does fashion. The key to buying interior accessories is questioning if it looks how much it is. If it does, put it down, but if it doesn't and looks expensive then you should get it as who doesn't like a bargain? I know I love the home wear in John Lewis and Zara home but I'll save myself money and wait till I'm on a salary rather than my student loan. 

The next step is doing my uni bedroom. Come September, I will have a room triple the size of this one and a double bed (hooray). So expect a blog post around then! 

Monday Movies...

Monday's are notoriously crap. Luckily, I tend to have Mondays off to replenish myself back to what I was before the weekend. Weekends for me tend to be packed with work, socialising and alcohol. None of these are what I call relaxing- let alone when done all together in the space of 48 hours. So on days like today, I plan nothing. When nothing is planned, my day often evolves into watching lots of films whilst getting stuff done like painting my nails and tidying. As you can tell, I lead a very glamorous life!

I would normally do top favourites on Fridays- but this blog post seemed more fitting for Mondays when all you want to do is get into bed with a bag of popcorn (priorities). Here are my favourite films for lazy days.

1. Clueless

The number one chick flick which paraded nineties fashion in all its tartan glory. You should watch this film for a girly, easy watch, and for some fashion inspiration. I was too young when this film came out to appreciate the pure fashion greatness of this film (I was one), but if I was sixteen in 1995- Alicia Silverstone would be my idol. Now that nineties clothing has had a comeback, Clueless is seen as the main muse behind this formidable fashion trend with catwalks and high-street shops channelling replicas of that yellow tartan two-piece. I would personally stay clear of wearing it if you still want friends. 

2. The Blind Side

I first watched this film a while after it came out and was horrified as to why I hadn't watched it sooner. Considering Sandra Bullock won an Oscar for her role in this, this film is incredible and is actually based on a true story. It's so heartwarming and caters for literally everyone. I even bought this on DVD because it is THAT good, which never happens.

3. About Time

I thought I should include a British film in this list somewhere, otherwise I am doing a lame job of being patriotic. About Time is another heartwarming story which seems very real. Even though it is about time travel, don't let it put you off and assume it is sci-fi or just plain bonkers. I mean, thinking about it, the concept is pretty bonkers, but the film is so good it kind of distracts you from any negative perceptions on the storyline. I also love Rachel McAdams (R.I.P. Regina George). 

4. The Wolf of Wall Street

Since I first saw this in the most packed cinema I have ever walked into, I couldn't recommend this film enough. People say it's too long (it's over 3 hours) but you need films like this on lazy days as when else do you have time to watch all of it and still manage to get up on time the next day? It's another one based on a true story, which makes the explicit actions of Belfort even more shocking. Leonardo also is amazing in it, as per usual. And is also amazing to look at in it… as per usual. Why he didn't win an Oscar for this is beyond me. 

5. We're The Millers

Possibly my favourite comedy. My parents saw this before me in the cinema which made me feel very uncool as I was hearing rave reviews from everyone I knew who had seen it. I finally sorted myself out and saw it at the cinema, and found it absolutely hilarious. Not that I'm miserable or anything, but I find things difficult to make me laugh, especially when it's staged to make you laugh like comedians and sitcoms. We're The Millers defeated that and made me laugh constantly. Even when I watch it now I still laugh so it must be pretty hilarious.

6. Easy A

Emma Stone is one of my favourite actresses ever. I love how goofy she is which airs a sense of normality compared to other Hollywood, squeaky clean actresses. This is comedy is a very witty, 21st century adaptation of Nathaniel Hawkthorne's 'The Scarlet Letter', and features Phoebe from Friends, which is nice for a change from seeing Jennifer Anniston left, right and centre. It has also got Penn Badgley in it who plays Dan in Gossip Girl. xoxo.

7. Because I Said So

I don't really know how to sum up this film, other than express that it is one of my favourites. It is another heartwarming, funny story that Mandy Moore and Dianne Keaton play incredibly, and the cinematography of this film is so beautiful with a vintage, kind-of retro, boho vibe to it. Mandy Moore's character is very relatable which I LOVE. It makes wherever they live (I assume California) look very appealing and if I could move there in the future, open my own bakery and wear polka-dot dresses like Mandy Moore- I would be a very happy indeed. 

8. Horrible Bosses
Another rare occasion where a film continues to make me laugh on the 20th viewing. Horrible Bosses is a comedy for absolutely anyone, with Jennifer Anniston never being funnier as a sex-crazed, filthy-minded dentist. With an all-star cast including Colin Farrell, Jason Sudeikis, Kevin Spacey and Jamie Foxx (I could go on), you can watch this film over and over again and still find some of the stuff they do as shocking as the first time. 


I feel like I have forgotten one or two, but let me know your favourites!

Summer Music Playlist...

I admit. I'm a playlist hoarder. My iTunes has so many playlists. When I have the opportunity, I try and make a playlist so when I'm in that mood again, I have a go-to music selection. I have over 9000 songs on my iTunes so it needs organising into playlists on either my mood, the occasion, or in this case; the season. Summer is my favourite time for music and there are loads of songs I am loving at the moment. My summer playlist is due for renewal, despite being emotionally attached to 2013's (so long Disclosure). Here's what I am listening to this summer and will for probably the upcoming year…

1. Gecko - Oliver Heldens x Becky Hill.

I don't actually like Becky Hill because I remember her being a bit annoying on The Voice, but I love her voice. It's a bit like Jess Glynne, and has a raspy tone to it. This song literally makes me want to get drunk and party and every summer playlist needs more than one of these songs. 

2. Never Leave You (Lumidee Refix) - MNEK.

This is my glorious YouTube find. I have not stopped listening to this song since I found it. It has everything: MNEK's voice, the dance beat, and the singalong factor. I believe this song to fit most moods- ranging from when your drunk to when your hungover (which is pretty hard to do). Winner. 

3. Time - Jungle.

Even though this is a bit on the repetitive side, it is a perfect summer song- particularly for round the pool on holiday. 

4. Don't - Ed Sheeran.

I'm jumping on the Sheeran bandwagon with this one, as is the rest of the country. I saw him on TV perform this at glastonbury, which made me like the song more and more. I prefer Ed Sheeran's more upbeat stuff because one, I'm not a ballad fan and two, it resembles Justin Timberlake's music (which I LOVE). 

5. eez-eh - Kasabian. 

This is so cool. I don't really know how else to describe it in any other words than just cool. Hmm.. I'll leave it there. 

6. Black Widow ft. Rita Ora - Iggy Azalea.

Iggy Azalea is so hot right now, and everyone I know loves her, which is pretty rare considering the context of a white, Australian, blonde rapper. I think that's why people support her so much is because she is so unique. Her music, particularly this one, is so catchy and has the right amount of pop and rap elements. Even though Rita sings about 3 sentences and repeats it a few times, I love this. I count this track as the equivalent to Niggas in Paris by Jay-Z and Kanye West on last year's playlist. Or maybe not equivalent. I'm not ready to let go to that song, just yet. 

7. Way We Are ft. Melissa Steel - Kove.

Very dancey. I discovered Kove at the end of last year. I downloaded their EP and loved it.  Every time I listened to 'Lose You', I wanted to break out into a dance and the beat in this one does the same. I like how all their music has style-consistency with their dancey beat becoming their niche. 

8. Your Love - Nicole Scherzinger.

My friends and I say this is a grower. Nicole Scherzinger also said it was a grower, so we must be right! I haven't got annoyed with it yet and I hope I don't because I want to listen to this on holiday- on the beach and in the sunshine. And hope I look like Nicole Scherzinger in the music video though. (As if). 

9. Young - Air Review.

I left my favourite till last! This song gives me goosebumps whenever I here it. It's such a beautiful song. Go and have a listen for yourself to see what I mean!

What's on your summer playlist? 

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My 20th: Birthday Haul...

I have finally turned 20 and therefore entered another decade. I don't like this getting older stuff! I feel like now I'm not a teenager I can't get away with the teenage excuses like being hormonal and young. Better start acting more like an adult. Oh god.

On my birthday, I went to Thorpe Park with my 3 best friends as we hadn't been since we left school 4 years ago. I thought there was no better way saying goodbye to childhood than acting like a child for the day. It was such a nice day with the sun deciding to show it's face so everything just fell into place. We packed the car up with loads of yummy food and had a long day out in the fresh air, catching up and laughing at how wet we got on the water rides. We all work pretty much full-time so times like these are always the best. However, all that fun made us so tired. We all couldn't keep our eyes open on the way back- apart from Ruby who was driving us (that could've ended badly). Tired and exhausted with sunburnt noses, we came back to mine to have spaghetti bolognese, prosecco, and cake. It was literally one of the best birthdays- bring on 21!

As far as birthday present go, I DID SO GOOD. Thank you to my family and friends for all my presents- I couldn't be any more lucky if I tried! I've decided to document them on here so I can look back next year and remember what I got as I always tend to forget (not that I'm ungrateful or anything, but my memory isn't top notch). Despite being 20, I still get up early on my birthday as I get so excited about opening presents. I also want my birthday to last a long time! Why waste the day?! It only comes round once a year...

Starting top-left: 

Si Giorgio Armani Perfume- this smells incredible. It's such a clean and fresh smell, and is girly enough without being so overwhelmed with the smell of flowers haha. 

Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette- Just jumping on the naked palette bandwagon like everyone else. I already have the naked 3 and this palette has some gorgeous gold and brown shimmers. After all, you can never have too much choice…

Korres Blush in Peach- this is so pretty, especially for the summer as it doubles up as a bronzer.

Urban Outfitters Elderflower and Champagne Candle- I am obsessed with nice smelling things at the moment. Count this as the beginning of my collection. My friends who bought me this said that if I was a candle, I would be this one. Hmm…

Babyliss Curling Wand Pro- I am yet to try this out, but with my hair being longer, I can't wait to experiment a bit with my hair.

Next Tahiti Home Diffuser and M&S Cherry Blossom Diffuser- As I said, more items to feed my scent obsession. These smell incredible. I'm glad I got two because I can have one in my room at home and save one for uni. 

Left to right:

Topshop Black backpack- I really wanted one of these to wear to uni next year as they are so practical. I love how practicality is becoming more important in fashion! This will just go with everything. Versatility is key!

Asos Anchor Rain Mac- This is also for uni, as my house next year is probably a bike ride away and I don't fancy turning up drenched to my lectures. Another practical yet fashionable item. (Also, notice my striped t-shirt? It was unintentional but I love how it fits the nautical theme haha). 

Starting at the top:

Maybelline Super Stay 14-hour Lipstick in Always Plum 260 (bottom) and Topshop Matte Lipstick in Inhibition (top)- I got the Maybelline one from my sister and after wearing it today- I love it. It stays on so well and I love the colour. I would describe it as a dusty purpley pink. The other lipstick is from my parents and it's so me. So parent points for that. 

GoPro Hero3 White Edition- This was the main present from my parents. I'm so excited to use it! It is literally the most versatile camera for both photos and video. Now I just need to  organise fun days out or book a ski holiday so I can use it to its full potential!

Zara Statement Necklace- My best friend did gooood. I needed a good statement necklace and this does more than the job- I mean, just look at the colours! 

I did get some odd bits like underwear, other toiletries, and wine but you don't need to see that! I'm so grateful for everything and I'm just glad to have caught my friends up so we can start our roaring twenties. Thank you thank you thank you!

Share your best birthday presents and days in the comments!

Writers Bloc...

I have recently, as some would say, fallen into a bit of a writing bloc. I have come to a standstill in my ideas and motivation. Like I'm at a turnstile that won't let me through because whatever's behind me is holding me back and asking me to solve it before I begin something new. This life 'stuff' has been things like returning home from uni and having to completely readapt my life to one that I had before I lived by myself: a life which I became pretty comfortable in and lived by no one else's standards but my own. Now, I have had to rework my life and fit it to everyone else in the household, and unpack everything back in its space (how did this stuff use to fit?!). I feel like I have had a lot of organising to do recently with my to-do list being so lengthy it could make a book. As well as this, I have started back at my job which I leave whilst at uni and return to in the holidays so I can redeem my bank balance. This has meant putting myself 'out there' a bit by making sure I look keen and committed- picking up as many hours as I can (or that my feet can handle). In the little spare time that I have, I have been seeing my friends who I haven't seen in months. I was used to seeing my friends weekly, or even daily, and now we are all busy bees- making advanced plans which we would've been incapable of maintaining before. Guess this is all about growing up, as everyone keeps saying! 

Now, this is not in anyway making excuses for why I haven't blogged in a month. I don't always believe in making excuses because they show your weaknesses due to their negative connotations. Instead, I like to think all of the above are reasons. Reasons, if used positively and proactively, give you chances to improve and make new plans and ideas. My reasons for abandoning my blog have meant that I have now, finally, got my feet on the ground back at home and in a normal routine where I can be more committed to my writing. Sometimes in life you need to take a backseat in order to move faster forwards and in the right direction. Now that this blog is fully running, designed, and established, I can move this blog in the direction in which I intend it to. It's strange how having the time away and then coming back to it can make your mind buzz with ideas. I'm now pretty motivated to do more lifestyle and original pieces. Since my last post, I have been offered the position of Assistant Fashion Editor for my student magazine, Nerve, which is beyond exciting. 

Here's to the future I guess… wherever it may be!

Top Fridays: Holidays

I have been very fortunate throughout my life to visit some amazing places around the world with my friends and family. These places hold amazing memories so I thought I would share them with you, alongside any hints and tips that I have picked up along the way. Sometimes holidays aren't always about the luxury. I have visited some of these places on a budget and believe me; it is possible. I have ordered them in regards to my opinion, beginning at number nine. This is in no way bragging- I simply want to take a walk down memory lane!

9. Istanbul, Turkey

I visited Istanbul on a college art trip in 2011 with a few of my best friends, so it wasn’t exactly the same structure as a family holiday. For example, after getting to college at 1am and travelling to catch a flight, flying to Turkey, arriving at the not air-conditioned hotel by about lunch time- we were expected to go sightseeing at the Blue Mosque for the evening, and then walk another few miles to have some dinner. It was exhausting to say the least and I personally wouldn’t have planned it like that. However, Istanbul has got amazing culture, with the Grand Bazaar a place you must visit. I remember buying my Mulberry clutch bag really cheaply and all my friends doing the same! Even though it was an art trip and we all dragged our sketchbooks around with us, I don’t think we did any artwork. We tended to leave the galleries and go sit in a café with a shisha and Lipton peach ice tea!

8. Pas De La Casa, Andorra

Nestled in between Spain and France is Andorra. Unknown to some, Andorra boasts some amazing ski resorts and a wide range of slopes with varied ability levels. The black slopes in particular were quite tame compared to French black runs. I stayed in the resort of Pas De La Casa with my family for New Year and it was hands-down one of the best skiing I have done. The resort itself was geared towards a younger audience with a bustling nightlife, but also fitted the purpose of our family holiday with some lovely restaurants. If I was to go back, I would save some extra money and buy perfume and more alcohol out there because the whole country is tax-free, meaning everything was very cheap. I bought 2 litres of spirits for the equivalent of £15. As you can imagine, I saved money when I came back to uni in the New Year!

7. Val D'Isere, France

I think the main reason I enjoyed this holiday so much is because of the upgraded chalet we were put in because of a booking blunder with the holiday company. Nevertheless, the resort was absolutely beautiful and do the best crepes. At night, the resort is lit with fairy lights which make it look like something out of Sylvanian families. The one downside about going with my family and other families with younger children is missing out on the apres. Val D'Isere is home to The Folie Deuce- the king of apres ski that is famous for it's saxophone dance music, table dancing, and very pricey drinks. I would love to go back with friends and get the whole après experience in Val D’Isere as it did look ah-mazing.

6. Paris, France

J'adore! I had the pleasure in visiting Paris in September 2013 with my best bud, and yes, despite being nearly in our twenties at the time, we did visit Disneyland, and yes, we did wear Minnie Mouse ears for the entire day. No shame. Paris itself is absolutely beautiful and absolutely massive. We managed to do the typical tourist hotspots, like the Eiffel Tower, but we would not have been able to visit everything (including the museums) in the 2 and a half days that we had. Luckily, being the cultured people that we are, we based our plan on what would photograph best so the main landmarks were our best shot. Paris is very expensive, more so than any other city I have been in. The cheapest soft drink in a cafe was 7 euros. I bought most my drinks from a vending machine on the metro and just sat on a wall by the river. Picturesque maybe, but not very glamourous. 

5. Marrakech, Morocco

I visited Marrakech in the summer of 2011 with my family and stayed at the Riu Tikida Resort, which was looooovely. Despite this not being my favourite kind of holiday (I'm not the best at laying around doing nothing- put me on some skis!), it was by far the best sun holiday I've had as it was so relaxing, and I got to see some of the Moroccan culture. The Moroccan markets in Jemaa El-Fnaa square are strangely a nice break from all the laziness, as these are buzzing with tradesmen, tourists, and snake charmers (no thanks). Quite typically, you do get a lot of beggars and unauthorised tour guides trying to get your attention when you leave the bus, but it is important that you just keep clear. These baddies can charge you for even talking to them. So yeah, stay clear and your bank balance won't hate you. Other than that, you are sure to pick up a bargain or two, and also a tan (oh yeah).

4. Orlando, Florida

Literally the happiest place on earth. Being the biggest Disney and film fan, Disneyworld and Universal Studios are so much fun, regardless of your age. I’m an adrenaline junkie so I’ll go on anything, as long as I’m securely strapped in! I went with my family and we stayed in a villa just off International Drive, which is full of hotels and restaurants. Eating out on International Drive is cheaper than eating in the parks, but I wouldn’t rule out trying some of the themed restaurants in the parks because they are an once-in-a-lifetime experience. It is also important to pack a ran mac or poncho that you can quickly put on in a Floridian storm, which can go from spitting to torrential rain in 0-5 seconds. Not exactly the best fashion statement, but when your walking and queuing in the humidity- practicality is key.

3. New York City, USA

It is my life ambition to live in New York for some part of my life. I just love how every corner there is a Starbucks or a breakfast café with about 20 different varieties of muffins. Whilst on the topic of food, there are so many salad bars where you can create a customized salad, which is perfect for lunch on-the-go. My sister and I had one every day and we still say how much we miss them (I’ve just realised how weird that sounds haha). I went in 2010 and again in 2013, so I feel I’ve done all the main ‘touristy’ things like the Empire State and Liberty Island and therefore won’t probably go and do them all again for another 10 years! After all, the queues for all these places are lengthy to say the least. I would say, that if I had to choose between the Empire State and the Rockefeller Centre, I would pick the Rockefeller because there are no queues (hoorah!) and you can get better pictures with glass walls, whereas the Empire State has these metal bars that just get in the way. Also, stay as close to Times Square as you can so most things are within walking distance. We stayed last year at The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel, which was perfect for us- and we got a double bed each, so as you can imagine, we were thrilled.

2. Barcelona, Spain

Quite possibly my favourite European city (bar London- still loyal), Barcelona is absolutely beautiful and has so much to do, whether that be shopping, site-seeing, or trying out the local cuisine. I visited with my friend in the summer of 2013 and stayed at the Acta Mimic hotel, which was about a 5 minute walk from La Rambla and the nearest metro station. This room was on the small side but it suited us fine with its great location and air-con! We did all the touristy things like Parc Guell, Camp Nou, and the Gothic quarters of the city, so by the last day our feet were so sore! As a solution to our throbbing feet, we rented bikes for our last day and cycled to the beach, which was such a good decision. The weather was perfect and the Barcelona beach is pretty easy to find, as well as it being nice and sandy. Easily one of my favourite holidays.

1. Meribel, France

My other home! I did my ski season in Meribel which is situated in the 3 valley area in the French alps. A playground for the rich and famous, but also families, young groups, and seasonnaires. I may be biased, but Meribel is a picturesque and an all-round contender for best ski resort. Meribel is made up of pretty wooden chalets, amazing apres ski bars, and restaurants (which I have to say, are pretty pricey). If your looking for a night out, each night has something going on. On Sunday's at Jacks bar is a night called 'Toss-the-Boss', where if you roll the dice higher than the barman, you get your round for free. I had many Sunday nights where I didn't spend a penny, which is ideal when you have spent too much money on nachos. If you are wanting food out on the slopes, I recommend taking a pack lunch or going into the resort, which you can access easily down the Doron piste to avoid walking up the hill. The restaurants on the slopes are very expensive, so if you are looking for food like burgers, chips, pizzas etc. then the Tavern in the centre, or the Meribar (at the bottom of the Chaudanne) are best for this. The buses in Meribel are also free. If you are wanting to venture further, Courcheval and Val Thorens are either side of the resort and costs 25 euros to upgrade for the day on your Meribel ski pass. This is so worth it, but make sure you know what time the last lift leaves, otherwise you'll have an awkward situation of trying to get back home. From what I've heard, it isn't easy. 


I can't wait to add to this list as the years go on! If you want to know more about these holiday destinations, then feel free to ask questions in the comments below. Now I reaaaaally want a holiday!