The achievements jar

So here it is, 2016! The questions which are flowing through are heads are the same as every year- what will this year bring? Will I be in a relationship or single by the end of the year? And most importantly, what will I achieve in one year?

One year is plenty of time, 365 days, all of which can be used effectively. However we are restricted by money, work and other commitments.

The idea of the achievements jar is to write down something you have achieved, even if its something as simple as 'went for a country walk' to something as wild as 'went diving in the great barrier reef'. Once the year is up, empty the jar and read all your accomplishments. You can also make something you do every week, so in total you will be able to reflect on 52 achievements or as and when you feel proud of something.

I think this idea is truly fantastic and will allow you to reflect on the amount of goals you can reach in a year.

So good luck, and lets make this year one to feel proud of.

Motivation to get fit- This Girl Can

I'm officially on my campaign to reach that desired 'summer body' which is so heavily publicised in the build up to the summer holidays. As a student, my summer holidays are very loooonnnggg but great as they are filled with chilling with friends in the sun, trips out on bike rides and walks, and of course flying off aboard to see some more guaranteed sunshine.

So, why am I blogging about fitness? I feel women are pressured to 'look good' physically. I agree men also experience this pressure however all over Twitter, Instagram and in the press are images which show the 'ideal' women's body, basically an image of an athletic woman complete with six pack. Moreover in magazines, frequently across the front pages show women of the celeb world who have 'put on weight' or 'lost their shape'. I'm no fitness fanatic, but with all the fitness promotions appearing in the media in the run up to summer I have been inspired to partake in more physical activity, including spending half a dozen hours a week in the gym. I don't believe everyone needs to be going to the gym every day, but I do think partaking in some form of physical activity once a week has no end of benefits. Women especially are being targeted in these campaigns as surveys demonstrate that so many more men exercise on a weekly basis than women. Recently we witnessed the release of the Sport England's 'This Girl Can' campaign which was aimed at everyday women, who work full time, are single parents or simply want to go and get fitter to exercise. It shows women playing sport, on runs, in the gym; they are all simply participating in exercise.

The recent release of the Nike advert also perfectly summarises the plea for ordinary women to get fit, with each individual participating in activity that is not necessarily intense, but is right for them. The group of women are endeavouring to 'get fitter' although they are no gym addicts themselves. The slogan and message emphasised by the video is 'Better For It' which promotes the idea that no matter what exercise you do, you will feel the benefit.

So what are the benefits of exercise on a regular basis?

1. Sense of achievement
2. Reduces heart disease
3. Reduces risk of cancer
4. Helps you to to set goals
5. Reduces the risk of dementia 
6. Reduces the risk of osteoporosis 
7. Reduces likeliness of depression, stress and anxiety
8. Enhances mental perfomance 
9. Improves you skin
10. Prevents muscle decay 

So go on, get out and there and get fit. Even if your playing tennis once a week, going swimming on the occasion or going for regular jogs. Trust me- you will feel 'better for it'. 

Top five albums to have on loop this summer

So summer is approaching which means plenty of time chilling in the garden, on the beach or on holiday somewhere plugged in listening to your favourite tunes. Are you wondering what to add to your playlist next? Look no further, as these albums by this collection of incredible artists are definitely worth a listen over the summer break.

1. Sam Smith- In The Lonely Hour 

I'm sure you've heard his name everywhere! In the charts and on the TV, Sam Smith has dominated the music industry for the last 6 months and has been labelled the male version of Adele for his big voice and his rapid rise to fame. He has had several best-selling singles from this album including Stay With Me, I'm Not The Only One and Like I Can. Sam has also won 4 Grammys, 2 Brit Awards and more recently 3 Billboard Music Awards. I don't think there is one song on this album that I'm not so keen on, they are all brilliant. 

2. James Bay- Choas and Calm 

A newcomer to the music industry, James Bay stormed up the charts with the single Hold Back the River, which when it was first released, I was obsessed with. His album shot up to the number one best seller in the UK and reached fifteen in the US charts, a remarkable achievement for a guy of 24. I love this album, I think James is a true genius, his songs are both emotive and individually fantastic. This album has great originality and his acoustic sound is perfect to listen to throughout the summer with a cider in hand. My favourite tunes include; Scars, If You Ever Want To Be In Love and When We Were On Fire. He is definitely next on my list to see live. 

3. George Ezra- Wanted On Voyage 

I first heard this album last year, it became our holiday soundtrack when I was down in Salcombe, Devon with family and friends. It is truly great. Ezra has such a unique voice he's almost addictive to listen to. His voice, I believe, is a great one for summer as its so chilled and helps you relax. George, only 21, was nominated for 4 Brit Awards and his album reached number 3 in the UK charts. His most popular songs are Budapest, Blame it On Me and Cassy O', however my favourite is Barcelona.

4. Taylor Swift- 1989

Now I know I have already discussed Taylor in my previous post, nominating her as my inspirational icon of the month, but I have to reiterate how brilliant her album. The title derives from the year of her birth and Taylor has claimed that many of the songs have been inspired by hits of the late eighties such as Madonna's Like a Prayer. This album is a lot more 'poppy' than her previous albums such as Red and establishes Swift's transgression as a country singer to a pop icon. My favourite tracks from the album include Blank Space, Wildest Dreams and How To Get The Girl. Following Swift's success with this release, definitely check this one out.

5. Years and Years- Y & Y EP 

I have quickly become a big fan of Years and Years, even before they hit the charts. Since the release of their single King, which reached number 1 on the UK charts the band have had a sequence of success with hits such as Desire and Take Shelter. Their new release Shine is also worth checking out.
You may recognise the lead, Olly Alexander, from films such as Great Expectations in which he played Herbet Pocket alongside Jeremy Irvine who played Pip. He has also starred in the Riot Club, Skins and more recently has appeared in the TV series Penny Dreadful. I think this band are yet to achieve big things; they have mountains of success coming their way. Their unique sound brings something new to the music industry and all their songs are very catchy with great backing tracks.

The Liebster Awards 2015

Getting a nomination for a Liebster award is a privilege! As a newcomer to the blogging scene, only beginning my blog in May last year, I have been hooked posting things which have inspired me to share with you.

Thankyou very much to Listen Lauren for my nomination, you are a great friend of mine and your blog is truly awesome. Everyone should defiantly check out this blog, especially friday posts which for us women out there as it makes us think about the world we live in today.

As promised I will answer all the questions posed to me by Lauren, so here we go!

What place is #1 on your travel bucket list? 
Currently, that would have to be New York. I am desperate to see all the grand sites, experience Broadway and explore Central Park.  

Chocolate or cheese?
Oooo, chocolate every time. 

What is the next book you want to read?
Mrs. Dolloway by Virginia Woolf. I am going to be commencing my study on women in the early 1920's for my dissertation and this book seems to demonstrate perfectly the expectations, behaviour and the degree of freedom women experienced after the First World War. A good friend very kindly bought this for me recently and I look forward to reading it.  

Words of wisdom to pass on to your future child?
Don't worry what other people think of you too much. Stay true to yourself. Be kind, honest and have faith in yourself and you'll be okay. 

What is your dream job?
Be an actress like Keira Knightly, however I have a feeling that dream is slightly far fetched. Therefore I suppose a realistic dream is to be a journalist, to write and have people read my work and think yeah, this is good. 

Sunsets or sunrises? What is the story of your best experience of one?
Sunsets are my favourite, and my best one has to be sat on a beach with a cider in hand surrounded by friends quite content. I would like to do this more often! 

Netflix or YouTube?
Netflix, simply because I have recently signed up once again and I love exploring the variety of films they have on there, especially the oldies! 

Who is your favourite disney 'princess'? 
I think Cinderella. I think her humble character and hardworking personality makes her transformation from rags to riches even more brilliant. Of course, I also like the fact it gives the message that no matter where you come from, if you possess kindness and courage you can find your 'prince'. 

Are you answering these at night or in the day?
Night. I am much more of a night owl than an early bird. 

If you could master any skill, what would it be?
Hmm, probably to be a fantastic public speaker. I think this skill is crucial to the lives we lead, however I would love to 'master' that skill to its full potential.  

Do you believe in aliens?
Yes. Although they are not green with giant black eyes. I think its highly likely, out there in another solar system exists a planet very similar to Earth which has the optimum conditions to produce living organisms. 

Now, here is a set of my own questions!

1. Dogs or Cats? 
2. If you could play any character from a TV show, who would it be and why?
3. What is your favourite season?
4. What was the last picture taken on your phone? 
5. If you could wake up tomorrow in the body of someone else, who would it be?
6. What is the first thing you notice about someone?
7. What would be the perfect day?
8. What was the last film you watched?
9. London, Paris or New York?
10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
11. What are you most proud of in your life right now? 

So here is my list of nominees for an award. They are all deserving candidates and Im sure are all ones to watch for the future. So go take a look at their posts!

1. http://miscriant.blogspot.co.uk/
2. http://laurenjedwards.blogspot.co.uk/ 
3. http://ashliesmall.blogspot.com/ 
4. http://rachelbirchley.com/ 
5. http://craftyowl93.blogspot.ca/
6. http://philosophyandcake.blogspot.co.uk/
7. http://collectiontwenty.blogspot.co.uk
8. http://eleanorcos.blogspot.ie
9. http://gloriouschic.blogspot.co.uk
10. http://glassboxesblog.com

Top ten places to visit in Europe 2015...

The perfect European bucket list, all the cities have some much to offer and so are a must see! Also for those of you which are planning an inter-rail trip, all the cities listed are covered by your ticket!

1. Paris, France

Possibly the most popular European city break there is, partially with its romantic reputation for those honeymooning couples or simply because of its historic famous attractions. Paris has so much to offer, its not all about the Eiffel Tower yanoe, the cuisine is great, coupled with relaxed French culture, its booming fashion industry and its grand boulevards. After my trip to this fantastic city at Easter, I fell in love with its old architecture and I totally understand why they call it the city of love! Places to see include; the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower (obviously with a selfie in mind) and Notre Dame.

2. Berlin, Germany

Berlin, despite the vast destruction it suffered in the Second World War is a beautiful city, full of sites to see such as the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie and the Reichstag. Full of history it makes a great weekend away. However not to be ignored is its fantastic reputation for its nightlife, with glamorous clubs and bars which overlook the city. Maybe one for a hen or stag party?

3. London, England

Good old London town, is quite rightly one of the best cities in the world. With so much to offer, including many historical sites dating back hundreds of years such as the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament, it also sustains a wide range of great bars, restaurants and clubs in the hotspots of Covent Garden, Piccadilly Circus and the West End . It is after all the home of the Queen herself, with Buckingham Palace being one of the most visited spots on Earth, London is quite simply unmissable! (No bias sensed here I'm sure).

4. Rome, Italy

The home of history, Rome has ample amounts to offer any traveller, it is after all where civilisation began. Its vast amounts of Roman ruins attract hundreds of visitors each year, and believe you me the Colesseum is quite spectacular. With every corner you turn Rome has something to entertain you. Once the most powerful places on Earth, Vatican City is worth a visit for its intricate and wondrous artwork by the great canon of artists, Michaelanglo, Raphael and Da Vinci. Also take advantage of the fantastic Italian cuisine which is on offer everywhere across the city, no pizza or lasagne will ever compare!

5. Amsterdam, Netherlands

One of the most unique cities in the world, with its stylish but antique buildings build on a system of intricate canals, this city is beautiful. A popular destination amongst young people, (not only for the Red Light District night scene), but because everything is rather cheap, concentrated and accessible. The main attractions remain Anne Frank's House and the museum quarter, with the most popular mode of transport being the bicycle of course! A must is to hire a bike and ride around the city to absorb the culture and see the sites.

6. Brussels, Belgium

The capital of Belgium, the city is full of eighteenth-century architecture including the fabulous town hall which is showcased in the city above. This is also a great summer destination with temperatures soaring up to the mid 30's in the peak summer months. Now as the centre of international politics, Brussels attracts many people of the business world, however it is definitely worth a visit. Also, why would you turn down the opportunity to visit the place which invented the Belgian waffle?

7. Copenhagen, Denmark

One of the prettiest cities in the Nordic region, Copenhagen is a must see! I personally love the colour and vibrance this city brings to Europe. Also, as the financial centre as Northern Europe there is plenty of modern architecture to explore including The Black Diamond and the Copenhagen Opera House. This city also complies with the reputation of Northern Europe as one of the cleanest and environmentally friendly places in the world. It is surrounded by beautiful beaches and harbours which are pleasant to visit after a day exploring the city centre.

8. Florence, Italy

Florence is beautiful. I visited the city back in the summer of 2013 and was stunned at how amazing it was. As you can imagine, the city is full of Renaissance works dotted on every corner, fabulous Italian restaurants and stunning views. Top places to visit include Florence Cathedral which dominates the skyline, the Palazzo Vecchio and the Ponte Vecchio bridge. The bridge is one of the oldest medieval bridges in the world and is crammed full of jewellery shops. The number of engagements I saw when I visited that summer was unbelievable, probably one of the most romantic places in the world to be proposed to... just saying.

9. Barcelona, Spain

Filled full of art and beauty, this mediterranean city is a worthwhile visit if ever in Spain. Renowned as the 'mosaic' city thanks to Antoni Gaudi who created the masterpiece La Sagrada Familia, an incredible cathedral which is still unfinished, even though construction began in 1882! Another of Gaudi's productions Park Guell is worth a visit. The series of interlinking gardens makes a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and again the mosaic work is incredible. Another perk of Barcelona is the brilliant collection of bars all around the city and you should not get apprehensive over the weather, its sunny nearly all year round. 

10. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is another city full of historic architecture. Dating back from the thireteenth century, some of the buildings are truly stunning. The town square is well worth a visit alongside the Gothic Tower House and the Prague Astronomical Clock which was constructed in the fourteenth century. Also, much like London, Paris and Rome the city is littered with bridges across the river which one illuminated at night look stunning.

Six Steps to Summer Health and Beauty Bliss

Summer is the most important time of the year to be looking your best right? With the summer holidays drawing closer and closer, more and more of you will want to be ready. It’s important you feel your best on the outside and within, so here are some tips for summer success!

1. Keep up the exercise 

The fight for that summer body soon begins as spring starts to appear. However, it’s not all about the ideal bikini body. Exercise is a great way to release stress by releasing endorphins which in turn will you make you feel good about yourself, whilst keeping you healthy. If your looking to tone up, lose a few pounds or fancy feeling fitter, take up something which suits your needs.

2. Stay safe in the sun

Whilst many of us like lying in the sun for hours to develop that perfect summer tan, you have to remember your skin is vulnerable to burning. It’s recommended that in high temperatures, in the UK or abroad to begin with at least factor 15 to prevent being burnt to a crisp! Also as much as they are a fashion statement, sunglasses are an effective way of protecting your eyes from contact with direct sunlight.

3. Healthy Eating 

I’m not suggesting discard all carbs, but everyone should think about taking on the 5 a day challenge. Having your 5 fruit or veg will not only help you keep you fit and healthy on the outside, but will you maintain a steady intake of nutrients. Also, with the hot weather on its way (hopefully) it’s nice to eat something light, so why not replace pasta for a salad or a milkshake for a smoothie?

4. Hair hydration 

Keeping your hair healthy in those summer months is always a challenge with the heat drying it out, and the sun bleaching it lighter. Frequently condition your hair each time you wash it, additionally you can use leave in conditioner to get it to a silky soft feel, or alternatively invest in some Moroccan oil which is deemed to do wonders for dry hair. After a day at the beach, with the mixture of salt water and sand drying out your hair, a top tip is to rinse through with olive oil to restore nutrients.  

5. Soft skin

The key to glowing holiday skin and maintaining that tan is simply through keeping hydrated. Yes, moisturisers definitely help but it’s equally important to keep up those water levels, not only to prevent headaches and sunstroke but to keep skin in tip top condition. Aftersun is also a good investment, and with regular application after a day in the sun you are much more likely to retain your tan.  

6. Melt- free makeup 

With those intense temperatures abroad, or that occasional appearance of sunshine here in the UK, keeping your make up in pristine condition is a struggle. Although, it has been recommend the application of primer before you do your makeup will ensures you to be smudge and smear free for the rest of the day. Also refer to a light make-up, nothing to heavy for the summer to help let your skin breathe and soak up that vitamin D.

Why travel?

Travelling. One of my main aspirations in life is to travel, to see the world. I'm sure many of you share this desire, especially those of you who are young, finishing uni and thinking what the hell do I do with myself now?! Your probably thinking, like me, I want to do something big, worthwhile, special, life-changing which will be full of memories and most importantly loads of fun!











I mean, these days its almost a right of passage, particularly heading off to Thailand and exploring the worlds sights whilst completing the stereotypical quest of 'finding yourself'. I think travelling should be something everyone participates in, unfortunately its an expensive business, however its possible by saving up!













Why not see the world that has been created for you to explore? The discovery of different cultures may put your life into perspective or encourage you to lead a life similar to theirs. Also, travelling allows to you make friends, possibly friends for life. Going it alone with a couple of mates will put your friendship to the test, having to direct yourself across different continents, jumping on a off trains, comforting someone when they are ill, all these trials and tribulations will bring you closer to those around you. So, top tip, pick to go travelling with friends you know you can rely on!

Now, I am sure you are envisaging going 'travelling' as you and a couple of mates with a few backpacks, hiking around Thailand, partying on the beach and absorbing the culture, however this is not always the case. Travelling can mean going anywhere for any amount of time, so don't let that image put you off. If your limited in funding but still want to get away, jet off on a European city break, there is so much to see in the cities of Europe! I think for me, going inter-railing around Europe, often the cheaper alternative to jumping straight into Aisa, is a great preliminary step to the big year out. And its on my bucket list!

As always, back to my best friend +BuzzFeed  here are a few inspirational videos to encourage you to take the plunge and do it, after all, YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE!

Where will you start?

New Year, New You?

Soo, we are in the final days of 2014! How exciting! But this is also very scary?! Where has this year gone? It is certainly true that with age the years go quicker. So with that Christmas chaos over, everyone is turning their thoughts to the new year. How are you going to celebrate it? Is 2015 going to be a new start for you? I have listed some new years resolutions for those of you struggling out there! Now, as everyone promises at the beginning of each year that they will stick by their resolution and by March they can't even remember what it was in the first place, this year I am actually going to abide by it! Remember its small steps that help you achieve your overall goal.

My new years resolution: Take more advantage of the opportunities presented to me in all aspects of life.

Here are five resolutions to think about:

1. Get Fit- probably the most popular new years resolution that almost everyone promises to themselves, and possibly the one most commonly broken! Getting fit is not just about hitting the gym for two hours a day, its the small things. If you can, choose to walk or cycle to work/ uni/ school, walking is one of the best ways to get fit. Replace toast for breakfast with muesli or porridge, both of which slowing release energy throughout the day. Don't snack past 9pm, a late night nibble is always tempting I know but try and hold off until the morning! Exercising can increase your serotonin levels by releasing endorphins which make you a generally happier person! Start slow with a walk/jog and then increase your milage or alternatively join the gym and build up your fitness level. Also, there are so many sports clubs out there go along, you never know you may love it!

2. Travel- This is really reliant on time and money, but if you can experience somewhere new! This isn't just about holidays either. I know in my head I'm desperate to go to New York as soon as I can, however I'm rather restricted in the financial department being a student, so I'm gonna start saving in the new year! However, even spending those Sundays with family or friends in different cities in the UK or at places you've always wanted to visit makes such as difference to your life in 2015, making you feel good about yourself for visiting somewhere new out of the monotonous routine.

3. Learn Something New- Now this may be the easiest and possibly cheapest resolution you can take on. Learning little things from baking different cakes, or knitting some socks to learning to play a new sport or gaining a qualification can make a difference to your life with that great feeling of achievement. Achieving something instigates that sense of pride, and its always nice to feel proud of yourself once in a while.

4. Be More Positive- With every problem, or everything that hasn't quite gone your way try and think of one positive outcome, even if it is to learn from your mistake. That way, those day to day things won't feel so bad, and you'll become more of a positive person.

5. Take Care of Yourself- Maybe once per week treat yourself to some 'me time'. If you have time, take a relaxing bath with some amazing smelling bubble bath, a bit of music, I recommend a bit of Norah Jones, its so relaxing! Take care of your skin by using moisturiser and cleansers and if you have ten minutes, a face mask does the world of good. You will notice a change in your skin, and this will help you build confidence, you will feel better about yourself and it is worthwhile!

To see other recommended resolutions, check out Buzzfeed- http://www.buzzfeed.com/maggyvaneijk/candy-crush-invites-are-a-no-go#.cwL2WbRddV

My film recommendations for those rainy days!

So now that summer is over, and those autumn days are drawing in, that means colder weather and probably more rain! On those cold or rainy afternoons what better to do than watch a film? So here are a few recommendations of mine.




1. Captain Philips (2013)- is the true story of Captain Richard Philips, an american, who, with his crew was attacked by Somali pirates. If you like action movies this is the film for you, but with a bit of violence added in. This film is full of action and can be a bit of tear jerker, especially as its based on a true story! I definatly recommend it, a classic Tom Hanks performance is always worth a watch!



2. Divergent (2014)- Although some might see this film series as another Hunger Games type thing, its not! I have to be honest, I did believe it would be too similar, however it is quite different! It has a very alternative view of the future of society and offers the perfect coupling of action and romance, with the female lead taking the role of the heroine.















3. The Great Gatsby (2013)- A throwback to the the New York of the 1920's, this film is full of colour and liveliness. The film features great music from artists such as Will.i.am and Fergie which blend well into the historic setting. It encapsulates a series of themes, from romance, hypocrisy, deviance, anger and heartbreak which in turn provide a range of emotions for the audience. Also Leonardo doesn't look too bad! I defiantly recommend it!

4. The Other Woman (2014)- I went to watch this film in the cinema on a whim with a friend at University and it was the funniest film I had seen in ages!  Focusing on three women, who have all been cheated on by their husband/ boyfriend by one another they play various tricks to make his life a little more difficult. Starring Diaz, again looking sublime, Leslie Mann and Kate Upton, the film focuses on girl power! I recommend for a girly night in!



5. The Perks of being a Wallflower (2012)- Is a film about coming of age, experiencing those first parties, learning how to adjust to high school, and the cliche one...falling in love. The film ventures into some deeper themes and makes you reflect on yourself and how others portray you. I would recommend a watch, because its a film you will love for its innocent and adorable main character Charlie. Plus, its good for you to reflect on those around you and yourself.











6. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)- One of the top grossing films of 2013, this film is brilliant but crazy. I went to see it with a group of friends at uni last February and the we loved it, well especially the boys for the beautiful Margot Robbie, and the girls, Mr DiCaprio, well for me in particular as a big Leo fan. The film tells of the classic cathartic tale of the rise of Jordon Belfort from rags to riches through New York's stock market. It does have frequent use of swearing, drugs and sex, but who doesn't like to watch a bit of bad behaviour once in a while! The only downside to this film is it is rated an 18, and is very long! Make sure you have plenty of snacks on hand!






7. Frozen (2013)- You may be thinking, Disney haven't brought out any fantastic films since the likes of Toy Story 3, or even Finding Nemo! But Frozen, now a worldwide sensation is a must see! First introduced to me by my 11 year old cousin at Christmas time, the film was brilliant, in keeping with fantastic Disney tunes which you must of heard, 'Let it Go' which have entered the charts. The tunes are unbelievably catchy and the film has a modern feel to it, whilst maintaining its fairytale charm.




8. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)- Having read the book, admittedly over the course of my first year at University, I was touched by the sensitivity of the story of a young person living with cancer. The film did live up to my expectations, with great actors Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort to play Hazel and Gus. If your a bit of a softie, i would recommend it for an evening, but beware you may shed a tear or two!

9. 12 years a Slave (2013)- A heart wrenching watch, this film tells the tale of a free man who becomes enslaved in America's deep South. It is a very interesting watch, and as a history student, it teaches you a lot about the divide in America over segregation in the 19th century. It is, as you expect, violent and upsetting but it is a film that makes you think and appreciate what rights you have in this day and age. A recommendation for a sunday afternoon!

10. Les Miserables (2012)- The classic West End musical is brought to the big screen, and as much as people doubted it, it was a triumph. The cast, in all honesty, seem to make this film, with lead roles being taken by Hugh Jackson, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Eddie Redmayne, Amanda Seyfried, Samantha Barks, Sacha Baron Cohen and Helena Bonham Carter, who give amazing performances and really can sing! Having seen Les Mis on stage, nothing seems to beat that experience, however, this film comes very close and the songs throughout the musical are amazing, not to mention the costumes!

11. The Host (2013)- The book, written by Twilight extraordinare and inventor Stephanie Meyer was apparently fantastic, unfortunately I still haven't read it! But the film was also great! Set in a future life, it focuses on a young girl escaping an alien invasion, with her gorgeous boyfriend, played by Max Irons. This film has that mixture of action and romance with an ultimate twist!












12. About Time (2013)- This film was produced by the makers of Notting Hill and Love Actually, and it most defiantly has the feel of both those films throughout. It focuses on a young guy starting out in life, being told he has the ability to turn back time which comes in handy with his difficulty with girls and later becomes important in some serious situations. It is very romantic and also hilarious. If you like Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill or Love Actually, this film is for you.

13. Warm Bodies (2013)- Unlike most zombie movies out there, not a Dawn or the Dead or for that matter Shaun of the Dead, it is unique as it incorporates a love story. With the classic tune 'Hungry Heart' as the theme of the film, it examines how evil can become good again, and the traditional theory that love can bring you back to life, but this time its literal. I recommend to all you romantics out there, and those who love zombie films!





















14. Safe Haven (2013)- A Nicholas Sparks creation, this film is slightly more edgy than his other stories. It involves a bit of a mystery, the police, a fire, its lets say, less innocent and therefore quite different to his other stories. However it still has the classic romantic moments and the times when you want to cry. A worthwhile watch.