A wonderful weekend!

The sun is finally shining here in the UK and this weekend I’ve been trying to spend as much time out in it as possible! 

I thought I’d share this weekend with you all because I haven’t posted in a while due to being so busy with uni work etc. If any of you are looking for things to do in and around Birmingham I hope this post can help!

Saturday 

I started the weekend off with a trip to the Sealife Centre with some friends from uni. This is somewhere I have wanted to visit for ages, as I love nature and wildlife and it didn’t disappoint. 

The best thing about the Sealife Centre is the amount of emphasis on conservation and protecting the species themselves. This is so important if we want these beautiful and amazing creatures to be around for future generations to see. I also loved how informative it all was, I feel like I learned a lot. This is such a nice way to spend a morning and it’s so easy to find 2 for 1 tickets or special offers so give it a try!

After this we walked from the Sealife Centre past the canals and through the city centre to grab some lunch. This was such a nice walk; the city was literally buzzing and vibrant on a sunny Saturday afternoon and there was something to see on every corner. This is my favourite thing about living in a city, as when it is lively I feel like part of a massive energy and it’s so exhilarating. 

We decided on Wagamama for lunch. It was my first time there, but ohmygosh I loved it so much! The menu was such a breath of fresh air. I really enjoyed the amount of variety and the relaxed dining experience. Also the amount of vegetarian options was great for me! I went for a green tea to start and then a yasai katsu curry and a ‘super green’ juice (celery, mint, lime and apple.) It was so yummy and I’ll definitely be going back to try the ramen!

After a short bus trip back to my flat we took a little walk over to a dessert cafe in Hamstead village to grab some much needed gelato! It was so nice to walk around with ice cream in the sunshine. I chose one scoop of strawberry flavour and one scoop of millions flavour. Did not disappoint. 

Sunday 

Today was a slightly more relaxed day but also super super fun! The weather was uncharacteristically hot for this time of year and reached 22 degrees celsius (some of my overseas followers may laugh at my excitement, but it’s hot for us!) 
I met up with some other friends and we decided to drive up to Cannon Hill Park and have a picnic. It turned out that half of Birmingham also had the same idea as us, but it was so nice to see so many different groups of people of all different nationalities- young and old, sharing a common bond of a love for sunshine and fun. This is one of Birmingham’s biggest parks and such a nice green change to the grey of the city itself. I would recommend it to anyone in need of an escape!

Following our lovely time in the park we ended our day with a quick browse around the art exhibition in The Mac (right next to the park itself.) One piece which really struck me was from Birmingham City University student Megan Evans. It focused on body image and the need to change ourselves through cosmetic surgery which I found fascinating. If anyone is looking for something to do in Birmingham then I’d definitely advise taking a look around this exhibition, it’s a collection of work from students around the West Midlands and they are all so talented! 

Thank you for reading about my weekend, I’d love to hear what you guys got up to as well! 

My easy peazy spiced lentils!

I wanted to start off a simple meals series on this blog to just share some of my favourite easy recipes with you guys. Hopefully it will come in handy for any of you guys starting university soon or moving away from home, or even people in search of some inspiration for a quick weekday meal!

I’ll just apologise in advance for the fact that I haven’t included pictures for the step-by-steps like I usually would. I genuinely made this meal in a hurry because it is one of my go-to dishes on a weeknight and I wanted to share it with you guys and keep posting (semi) regularly rather than have to wait until next time and do it again! 

This is such a cheap and tasty meal which makes it so satisfying to prepare. Also I am pretty sure it is vegan as well (?) Anyway, I hope you enjoy it and also let me know any other recipes you guys know that contain lentils because I’m determined to try more ideas!

Ingredients

1/2 mug of red lentils 

1/2 a large onion

1 tomato

1 can of chopped tomatoes/passata

Spices:

Garam masala (1 tsp)

Garlic and coriander powder (1 tsp)

Turmeric (1/2 tsp)

Hot madras powder (1 tbsp)

Chilli powder (to taste)

Step One: Preparation 

Finely chop the onion and tomato and rinse the lentils through thoroughly with cold water.

Step Two: Create spice paste

Heat oil of preference (I use coconut oil) and add the onions and tomatoes. Coat these in all of the spices (apart from the chilli powder) and one tsp of tomato passata. Cook the onions for around 2 minutes.

Step Three: Add the lentils 

Pour in the rinsed lentils and coat gently in the spice mix. Following this, add the rest of the passata/chopped tomatoes.

Step Four: Leave to simmer

Add a splash of water to add liquidity to the mixture; this will provide enough liquid to be absorbed by the lentils and make a tasty sauce. Cover the saucepan and make sure to stir every few minutes so the lentils don’t stick. 

Step Five: Final stage 

Keep the lentils fully covered until they are cooked. For the last 5 minutes partially remove the lid and keep half covered so the liquid partially evaporates and the dish isn’t too runny. When satisfied, serve as desired. Some serving suggestions include:

– A filling for a jacket potato 

– With a hearty side salad

– With rice 

– With creamy mashed potato (my personal favourite, if not slightly random, comfort food option!)

Thanks guys! ❤ 

February Favourites!

So we are definitely heading towards spring guys and I for one could not be more excited for the sun to start shining! Even this week it has been gradually starting to get warmer and I’ve definitely seen an improvement in my mood because of it! 

As you can probably tell from the title, today’s post is going to be another favourites post, just because I managed to try a bunch of new things out in February that I’d love to recommend to you all. So here goes!

Beauty 

This month the beauty category is probably the biggest as I’ve tried a few new products which I have been really  impressed with. 

1. Zara Twilight Mauve fragrance 

In all honesty, I would never have thought to put Zara and fragrance together as a good match, but this stuff is AMAZING. I initially bought this as an everyday perfume to stop me from using my more high end fragrances up too quickly, but I really have fallen in love with it. It’s just £7.99 and smells incredible. I’ve received so many compliments on this fragrance which i tend to just wear day-to-day to uni or when meeting a friend and it’s so light and airy and actually perfect for spring. Zara have so many low priced fragrances so it’s definitely worth checking them out  and finding one to suit you. 

2. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Total Cover Matte Foundation 

I have never really used a matte foundation before, definitely not in recent years anyway, but adverts for this have been popping up all over my social media and it claims to be a ‘camouflaging’ effect on all spots and blemishes etc. My skin was looking quite bad at the end of last month so I decided to give it a go and it definitely does what it claims to! It is quite a thick foundation but it doesn’t look cakey at all, it lasts all day long and genuinely does cover blemishes and even out your skin. I usually prefer a light and silky foundation (L’Oréal true match is my favourite),but if I have to go out anywhere on a bad skin day this will 100% be a go-to. 

3. Collection 7 Day Wear Nail Polish in Soft Rose

I genuinely own so many nail polishes already, but I couldn’t resist picking this one up when I saw it. It was only £1.99 and the peachy pink shade is so lovely for spring! It also seems to genuinely last longer than other cheaper brand nail polishes. Generally my nails start chipping after 2 days (sometimes sooner) but I painted my nails with this polish the night before I flew to Munich and it managed to stay intact for a good 5 days and considering that I was travelling I was very impressed! 

4. Carmex Moisturising Lip Balm

This next item was gifted to me by my sister so I am not too sure about the pricing of it, but it is genuinely the best lip balm I have ever used! It lives up to its name in that it is incredibly moisturising and the cherry flavour smells so good and makes your lips tingle which I find so cool! I have previously purchased the solid form of this lip balm but I would definitely say the squeezed form works better for me. My lips had been so dry because of the cold, windy weather but they feel so much nicer now! 

Books

1. The Girl on the Train- Paula Hawkins 

If any of you read my New Years resolutions post you will know that one thing I wanted to do this year is read more. Throughout February I was trying to get through this book every day during my commute into uni and I finally finished it yesterday! In all honesty I has already seen the film so I knew how it was going to end, but it somehow still remained as tense and as gripping as for someone reading it for the first time. The book itself differs slightly from the film so I loved getting the author’s perspective on the story and seeing it in a different light. The plot twist is so huge that (if you’re like me) it will leave you with your mouth open. So please read this if you haven’t already! 

2. Gone Girl- Gillian Flynn

This book I started when I was travelling to Munich a few weeks ago and again, I have already seen the film (I need to stop with this!!) but I am loving every page so far. I feel like this book goes into so much detail about what the characters are thinking and I love how the author switches perspectives between the two main characters. Although I know the ending, I still find myself doubting it because her writing is full of suspicion and tension that it almost feels impossible to predict what is going on. I’m only part way through so far but I’m very excited to get to the end!

Television 

1. Reign 

Ok so I normally do not enjoy period drama whatsoever, but this is literally so good! For those of you who don’t already know, it is basically about a young Mary Queen of Scots and her ascent to power and her relationships along the way. I think the writers of this show have managed to put this together in a way that it is historical and informative but also has an exciting twist to keep viewers hooked. I’m currently mid way trough the first season, I started it at the end of last month after finishing breaking bad and having nothing to do with my life and I am loving it. The love triangle between Mary, Francis and Bash is the kind of storyline which keeps you watching and the subplots based around her ladies in waiting are also scandalous and make the show what it is. If you’re stuck on something to watch, this is on Netflix!

2. Riverdale 

Part of me feels like this almost goes without saying, because literally so many people are raving about this right now, but if you aren’t already, you need to get watching riverdale! It has a kind of pretty little liars vibe and is basically a murder mystery set around a high school in a small town. All the actresses are literal goals, they all look so good all the time and the boys aren’t all that bad too! It stars Cole Sprouse of The Suite Life fame and then a bunch of new up and coming actors. It also tackles themes like ‘slut shaming’ and female empowerment which is great to see coming up in modern mainstream shows. Check it out on Netflix guys!

Music 

1. Something Just Like This- The Chainsmokers and Coldplay

The first time I actually heard this song was when it was performed at the Brit Awards last month but ever since I have been listening to it so much! I love the Chainsmokers because they are so different to a lot of pop music in that they have always got their own take on a song and have a unique style and then Coldplay are just legendary as it is. These two together are a match made in heaven and this is such a catchy track!

2. Chantaje- Shakira ft Maluma 

This is a bit of a random one but this last month I have been loving this new track from Shakira. I genuinely feel like she can’t go wrong, her music is always so catchy and in particular I find this track is great for working out to! The only downside is that I can’t sing along, as I don’t speak a word of Spanish *cries* maybe one day!

Miscellaneous 

1. Haribo strawbs 

Ok I know these aren’t new or anything like that, but as I’ve mentioned before, I’m trying to seriously cut down my meat intake and adjust to a vegetarian diet and one of the hardest things is sweets! So when a friend informed me that Haribo strawbs are gelatine-free I was so excited and they have been my go to seeet treat ever since. If any of you happen to know anymore UK sweets which are suitable for vegetarians then please let me know, as I am fed up of having to read the back of every packet in the shop! 

That’s it for this month’s favourites. I hope you guys take some inspiration from what I’ve been loving this month and feel free to share your favourites with me if you have any suggestions of things I should try next! 

International Women’s Day 2017: My most inspiring women!

I’d just like to kick off this post by wishing you all a happy international women’s day! I really wanted to commemorate this on my blog, as I think it’s very important to celebrate the achievements of women of all backgrounds, as where would we be if we weren’t supporting one another? Share the love guys ❤️

Today I’m just going to share with you some of the great women of today who personally inspire me to be better and achieve more. Let me know in the comments who your icons are guys!

Dina Tokio 

Dina is one of my absolute favourite bloggers today and in a world FULL of prejudice, she does an amazing job of kicking stereotypes to the kerb and purely just showing other women that they can be themselves and not have to worry. I love Dina’s style and her confidence to try new looks while still showing the world that her culture and religion take first place. She’s an inspiration for not just young muslims, but any young people seeking the confidence to truly express themselves without having to conform to societal expectations. You go girl!

Michelle Obama 

The former First Lady of the USA has done an enormous amount for women’s rights and gender equality over the years. To me it was so inspiring to see her perform her role so actively in not only speaking out about important social issues, but also in showing the world that you can be a wife and a strong woman at the same time. The love and respect which exists between Barack and Michelle is clear for anyone to see and the fact he is proud to admit that he wholeheartedly depends on her support shows that women are so important in so many ways. She once said  “no country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half its citizens”. Thank you Michelle for being a role model for hundreds of thousands of young girls and women across the globe. 

Meryl Streep 

Not only an incredibly gifted actress, but also a passionately driven woman who is ready to speak out when confronted with injustices. Just a few months ago we all saw Meryl condemn Donald Trump, one of the world’s most powerful men, for his derogatory words and insulting views. As someone in the public eye, it is expected that she needs to be cautious when sharing personal opinions as not to provoke too much of a reaction. Nevertheless, she stood up for what she believed in and was not afraid to challenge a man who has gone so long without being challenged. We salute you Meryl! 

Ellen Degeneres 

Despite fame, fortune and international success, Ellen always manages to find a way to give back. No matter what the issue is, she always finds a way of standing up for what’s right and what is fair. Her charitable work is an inspiration to all women to do more for the people around them, no matter how small the act. At the same time as being a real life superhero, Ellen also shows young girls that they should be proud of who they are and who they love and her success is a lesson to us all that we do not need to change or hide ourselves to get where we want to go. 

Angela Merkel

I’d like to finish this post with a small ode to Angela Merkel. Politics aside, to see a woman hold one of the most powerful positions in the world and be the chief of one of the strongest and most prosperous economies is quite something. Young girls can now aspire to lead and to have an impact on society. They can decide to create their own future according to their own ideas of what is right. I admired Merkel throughout the refugee crisis. In spite of contest and criticism, she did not stand by when people were in need, she carried out her duty as a world leader and showed humanity and empathy in a difficult time and for me that is truly an inspiration. If only more politicians were so committed to helping those in need. 

Thank you to all women worldwide for all you do to inspire us to be better. 

Munich city break

I’m currently sitting on a Thameslink on my way back home from Gatwick Airport after a lovely week away in Augsburg/Munich, Bavaria. 

I had many reasons for taking this trip; I wanted a break from uni during reading week, a chance to brush up on my German skills and meet up with friends, exploring what will soon be by local area and of course seeing my lovely partner again! 

I just wanted to share with you some of the sights I managed to see during a brief overnight stay in Munich. 

We stayed in Hotel Stachus, which is just a stone’s throw away from the central train station. We have stayed here before and it is always great value for money, especially considering the location! From the hotel it is only a 10 minute walk to Marienplatz, where the incredible Rathaus (town hall) is. This is providing that you don’t get distracted on the way by the endless shops, cafes and restaurants in Munich’s Altstadt (old town) district. 

One cafe which we did stop in is actually a favourite of ours due to the delicious cakes. Germany are renowned for their bakeries and Cafe Rischart does not disappoint. Being so close to Austria as well it is definitely worth indulging in the cafe culture once in a while. This time I went for the classic Apfelstrudel but I can also highly recommend the Kirschroyale which I have had previously!

The whole atmosphere of the Altstadt district is generally exciting. In some ways I can compare it to London because of the fact there is always something going on. I am used to city living to some extent, but big cities like this always have their own vibe. Munich is unique in having such traditional Bavarian culture mixed in with elements of so many others (Turkish being one predominant aspect). Yesterday evening we enjoyed Turkish bourek in our hotel room purchased from one of many Dönerläden in Munich (Germany in general). 

All in all, if anyone is planning to visit Germany or interrail through Europe, make sure that Munich is in your list! It is home to Oktoberfest, BMW Welt (which I saw last year and is also with a visit) Bayern Munich and many more staples of the German culture.

Boston Tea Party review!

In search of a way to spend a cold and drizzly afternoon, a friend and I decided to check out a cute cafe/restaurant we’d been meaning to visit for a while. 

As a student (or probably any human being ever) in Birmingham, going out on a Saturday afternoon can be tough, as the city is so busy and also can be pretty pricey too. Somehow, for less than £9 each, my friend and I both managed to get a delicious and healthy light lunch as well as a warming pot of earl grey and a break from the crowded city centre. 100% would recommend Boston Tea Party to anyone visiting or living in Birmingham.

We both decided on having a variation on pumpernickel bread; I chose the smoked salmon, cream cheese and watercress and Soraya went for avocado, hummus and poached egg. Both were presented beautifully and tasted fantastic. On top of this, the service was friendly and efficient and the atmosphere was great. I’ll insert some pictures of our food below.

I adore rye bread, as it really takes me back to when I used to live in Germany, where such sorts of bread are extremely popular. I love when food has a nostalgic feel to it, it’s almost the best kind of comfort food if you ask me. I know as well for all you avocado fans out there, although I am not one of you, my friend is, and she assured me that it was to die for!

The other thing I really wanted to mention was the decor! It was so rustic and quirky and the whole place had such a cool vibe. One thing which was really cool was the massive tea cups we were given with our earl grey; for me it makes the tea taste even better! As well as this, the cutlery was served up in retro-looking cans which had been done up to suit the edgy atmosphere they had going on. Please check this place out if there’s one near you or if you’re ever in Birmingham!

Travel Bucketlist: Europe

Anyone who knows me will know how much I dream about travelling and experiencing new places. For me a holiday isn’t just about lying by a pool on a sunlounger and making the most of an all inclusive hotel stay; I really love to get up close and personal with the country and it’s culture.

I thought I’d just compile a small list of some of the places in Europe which I am DYING to see. Some I’m hoping to get to this year, others are slightly less realistic. But let me know in the comments if there’s anywhere else you’d recommend for me to check out!

*Disclaimer- I don’t own any of the following images.*

Santorini, Greece

Looking at photos of this stunning blue and white design really reminds me of one of my favourite places in the world: Sidi Bou Saïd in northern Tunisia. I dream of the Mediterranean climate and delicious food that Greece has to offer as well as the secluded luxury of a cave pool or the peaceful bliss looking out from an infinity pool. Sadly this holiday is probably out of reach for the foreseeable future due to my student budget but I’m determined to get there one day!

Reykjavik, Iceland 

The northern lights. Utterly breathtaking. I can’t even imagine what it would feel like to experience these first hand but I’m sure it would be incredible. Funnily enough, a visit to Reykjavik has always been what I envisioned for my honeymoon (one day). I like how different it is and I feel like the romantic element is most definitely still there. I can picture myself relaxing in the blue lagoon spa and looking up at the most amazing sky. One day I hope! 

Amsterdam, Holland

Slightly more realistic and doable on a budget as well: Amsterdam. I am actually planning a weekend break to Amsterdam in the coming Autumn just to celebrate 3 years with my lovely boyfriend. I’m very excited to walk along the canals and visit the famous sights. I’m also curious to see what the nightlife has to offer so watch this space!

Salzburg, Austria

Another thing I’m very much excited about is the fact that come this summer, I’ll be just a stone’s throw away from the Austrian border. Austria is one of those places which I’ve always wanted to get to but never quite had the opportunity. It would be perfect because I speak German and it’s not too far away, so here’s hoping I’ll actually make it this time around! Salzburg is renown for it’s stunning scenery and magnificent castle which overlooks the city (much like Heidelberg- my old home!) I’m also positive that the Christmas markets there would be incredible. 

Vienna, Austria

Continuing with the Austrian theme, of course Vienna would have to be on the list as well! It’s always been a dream of my mum’s to take a trip here and see the concert hall, as she’s such a big fan of classical music. It’s my dream to go for the cakes and the cafes! I do love a good patisserie and I can only imagine how brilliant it feels to indulge in the home of cafe culture.

Rome, Italy

So I think I’ve made it pretty clear that I’m quite the foodie and where else would be on a foodie’s bucket list other than Rome; the heart of Italy and of course Italian cooking. I’m such a fan of Italian food, it’s probably the influence of one of my best friends having Italian heritage that I’ve become quite fussy about what is good enough but naturally a trip to Rome would satisfy every need in that department! 

Paris, France

I know, it’s completely predictable and maybe it’s the romantic in me, but I feel that this list wouldn’t be complete without including the city of love! Paris is somewhere where I think everyone who can needs to try and visit once. It’s so well known for its cool and chic vibes that I feel as though I need to experience it first hand. I don’t speak a word of French, but my boyfriend speaks it very well and I am quite excited at the prospect of going somewhere where he has to do all the talking for once because it’s usually the opposite way around! I also reaaallly want to try some freshly baked macarons.

OOTD!

I’m in a good mood. I’ve just finished my last exam and I’ve gone home to see my family for the weekend before the new term starts on Monday. 

I thought I’d just share a super quick outfit of the day with you because I haven’t done a post like this in a while and hey, I guess I’m feeling positive today! 

The details:

Cardigan: H&M

I recently snatched this up in the H&M sale for just £7 and I love it! It’s so comfy and versatile and the extra layering helps so much with the cold weather we’ve been having here recently. 

Skirt: H&M

This is an old (and well-travelled) favourite of mine. I actually bought it back in 2015 while I was living in Germany and it’s so cute! You can’t really tell from the photo but it’s button up and patterned with tiny white daisies. It’s more of a summer piece technically speaking but I like to play around with things.

T-shirt: New Look

It’s a no frills black long-sleeved top, but it’s simple, versatile and very warm and it’s what I chose to pair with the skirt.

Tights: Primark

PRIMARK TIGHTS ARE THE BEST. 

Belt: Missguided

I feel like double-buckled belts are so in at the moment so I had to bag myself one from Missguided just before Christmas! It’s an interesting twist on what we’re used to and the silver gilding has a sort of retro vibe. It looks good with any high waisted skirts/trousers.

Boots: New Look 

I  don’t know if you guys will remember but I featured these in my last post and I’ve literally been living in them ever since I bought them. I feel like they actually go with almost everything?? 

Thanks for reading guys and have a lovely weekend! ❤️

Monthly favourites/haul: what I’ve been loving recently

Following on from Christmas, my birthday and, of course, the January sales, I’ve been lucky enough to get my hands on quite a few new items which I’d like to share with you guys. I guess that it would be a cross between a favourites and a haul.

I personally always find these types of posts really interesting, as i truly value people’s opinions and recommendations. I will be sharing some of my favourite items in the categories beauty, fashion, tv, music and more… I hope you take some inspiration from it!

Beauty favourites 

1. Kiko Milano: Ultimate Pen longwear eyeliner 

Ever since the new Kiko store opened up in the Bullring I’ve been really wanting to try out some of their products. I finally bit the bullet and went in a few weeks ago and I was very pleasantly surprised. Not only are the prices extremely reasonable, I’m also super impressed by the quality of the products. This eyeliner is so easy to apply and in my opinion, looks incredible. I love my eyeliner to be as dark as possible and also not too thick. For me, this product allows both. 

I’m definitely no make up expert, but I was more than happy with the results:

2. A’kin pure radiance rosehip oil

I, like many others, suffer from extremely sensitive and also quite dry skin. I’ve come to a point in life where I’d really like to invest in some high quality products and look after my skin. They do say prevention is better than cure! This rosehip oil is completely cruelty free and honestly gives the skin such a lovely glow and soft feel. Apply sparingly after cleansing and before moisturising.

3. Michael Kors Wonderlust

The last item in the beauty section is this amazing smelling fragrance from Michael Kors. I received this as a birthday gift after lusting after it for the last few months and it honestly smells so fresh and vibrant and lasts all day long. It is pricey, but if anyone is need of a new frangrance and doesn’t mind investsting a little bit extra, treat yourself!

Fashion

1. Mango white faux leather backpack 

I have been after a bag like this foreveeeer and finally I managed to get my hands on one in the Mango sale for just £20! I love the practical style, it’s not big and bulky but it manages to fit the essentials in for a day out. The fastening is nice and secure meaning that I don’t have to worry about things going missing while I’m out. On top of that, the off white/cream colour is really classy and manages to dress up any outfit; it’just super cute! 

2. New Look black ankle boots 

These were another gift (actually chosen by my boyfriend- wooo!) and I love them so much! I’ve always been a fan of ankle boots, and the gold zips paired with the slight heel just makes them look extra smart. I also love the leather-look/suede combination. I secretly feel very sophisticated whilst wearing these! 

These look best with either skinny jeans and a long coat for a chic daytime look, or a skater dress and chunky knit tights for a cute date night outfit.

Music/TV

1. Breaking Bad

Ok so I know I’m late to the party on this one, but I just finished binge watching Breaking Bad and my goodness it was incredible! I don’t think I’ve ever finished a series as quickly as this before but not I’m left with the issue of finding something new to fill the void with. If anyone has any suggestions please let me know! And if anyone hasn’t watched it, please do! And stick with it too, it’s worthwhile! 

2. Starboy- The Weeknd 

I’ve been a fan for a while and The Weeknd never fails to impress me! This album is perfect in so many ways and really sets the chilled out atmosphere which has been essential for the last few weeks of intense revision in preparation for uni exams. Keep doing what you’re doing, Abel!

Other 

1. Elpine 0.8L rice cooker 

I’ve been interested in this product for a few months now and when my dad asked me about what I wanted for Christmas I mentioned it. I know a few friends who have them and swear by them, and as a keen cook and lover of curry, I sensed that a rice cooker would be incredibly useful. I was right. I’m honestly so in love with it. It is so easy to use and cooks the rice to perfection. Obviously other brands and sizes are available, but for my own personal use (1 cup at a time), 0.8L is the perfect size. In fact, I also used it at my birthday party which was a kind of Indian-themed dinner party to cook 6 cups and it came through like a trooper. This product will hands down not disappoint! 

Thanks for taking the time to read guys and let me know what you’ve been loving lately in the comments so I can try it out. 

2017 Resolutions

January is not everyone’s favourite month due to the dismal cold weather, the sinking reality of going back to work/uni after the holidays and, of course, the strain on your bank account after both Christmas and New Years.

I, however, happen to rather enjoy January. I did just turn 21 so that’s one exciting part of it, but I also just love the sense of new beginnings. I know it’s cliche to think of the whole “new year, new me” thing, but I always feel ready to refresh myself at the start of the year and also just motivated to achieve more.

So, with the beginning of a new year I’d just like to share my New Years resolutions with you all and hopefully by the end of 2017 I will have succeeded! 

1. Blog more! 

I’m relatively new to WordPress. I’ve had my blog for a few months now and I really really enjoy sharing my ideas and reading what other people have to say as well. For this reason I’d love to grow and develop my blog even more this year and hopefully up my posting content.

2. Read more books 

I used to be such an avid reader, but being at uni has really made it hard for me to find the time to curl up with a good book. At school I was really keen on English Literature and I would really like to get back into reading again. I’ve recently purchased some books including 1984 and Girl on the Train and I’m hoping to get through them and maybe even share a book review or two on the blog!

3. Travel 

I’ve never been one to shy away from travelling; in the last few years I’ve been back and forth to Germany multiple times (including spending a year abroad there when I was 18). This year is set to be really exciting, as I am going back there and have secured a marketing internship with a really great company in Munich. I’m so excited and can’t wait for the opportunity to immerse myself in the culture again. Hopefully I’ll also get to see more of Europe this time, with trips to Amsterdam and Salzburg potentially on the horizon.

4. Build on my savings 

Lastly, I really want to use this opportunity to save more money. Uni is coming to an end and something I really want to do when I’m back from Germany is pass my driving test and reach that milestone. There’s so much coming up which I really want to be prepared for and saving as much money as I can is the best place to start! 

I just wanted to take the time to wish my followers a Happy New Year and also the best of luck in 2017! Feel free to share your resolutions/goals for this year in the comments.