The Ultimate Book Recommendations From Every Fiction Genre: Pt. 1

Feature image: https://www.brainpickings.org/2012/11/13/my-ideal-bookshelf-jane-mount-thessaly-la-force/ “So, what do you want to do in the future Becky?” Umm…anything to do with books! Recently I have put my serious thinking hat on about what I might want my career and future to look like. When faced with the largest, scariest, open-ended questions such as ‘Where do you see yourself…

Travel in 2021: how to make the most of your local area

It is nearing the end of March and the sun is shining, Uni term is finishing, and the vaccine programme is reaching more and more people, meaning thinking about travel in the not-so-distant future is something to dream about again. Whilst I can’t wait to explore wider, further and deeper into different landscapes, cultures and…

Love After Love by Derek Walcott

In light of Valentine’s Day, I thought I would have a look at a love poem and draw on some of my thoughts from my own heartbreak through my love of literature. Here’s Love after Love by Derek Walcott:  The time will come when, with elation you will greet yourself arriving at your own door, in your own mirror and each…

Book Review: Crime and Punishment, Dostoevsky

Crime and Punishment is a widely known novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky, a giant of Russian literature, published in 1866. The book is not a crime novel: instead it is a novel where crime has happened. It is not a fast-paced thriller, but rather a fascinating slow-burner. Almost immediately the identity of the criminal is revealed,…

The best independent coffee shops in Exeter

Having explored my University city over the past few weeks I have come up with a list of the best places to check out if you're ever in town. With the second lockdown well underway, supporting local businesses is key to their survival, so grab yourself a takeaway coffee with a friend! Below are the…

University: A Half Term Review

Isolation, curfews, online teaching and groups of six. Although an accurate description of university so far, it doesn’t cast a very positive light on a new exciting, independent life. Instead, let me rephrase: new friendships, the enjoyment of learning, nights out & the exploration of beautiful places. Yet, reality is somewhere in the middle, always…

The Best Urban Green Spaces In The World

Cities That are Good For The People And The Planet Today’s cities are increasingly finding ways to be sustainable, economically strong and encourage biodiversity. Not one has truly balanced people, profit, and the planet but many cities around the world are embracing the revitalising effects of green spaces in their urban places. The Arcadis Index…

‘Dear Diary’: The Power of The Unique Literary Genre

Most of us at some point in our lives have probably kept a diary or journal of some sort, either from a young age detailing school days or later into adolescence and present day. I recently discovered my old diaries from when I was ages 10-13, whilst amusing reliving moments from my younger self, (mainly…