Amie Rhone: fun

Monday, 22 May 2017

Last weekend was full on; cinema trips, shopping, eating out, celebrations, road-tripping and cake making! On Sunday, we decided to head to Oxford. We visited the University city in 2015 and you can see my post here but this time, we had a different agenda.

First we headed to the Ashmolean Museum, where we discovered arts of the Renaissance, incredible Greek sculptures and a marble staircase of dreams. I love exploring museums and learning more about different countries and cultures, especially when those countries are places that I dream of visiting. I think it's good to immerse yourself in the culture of countries you're interested in, it can really make you appreciate another place.

After exploring the Ashmolean, we headed to Jamie's Italian for a pasta fuelled lunch, complete with a gorgeous praline bomb and a few cocktails. Shopping in Oxford is really good but I only came away with a couple of items; I think online shopping is so much easier, stress free and actually allows you to look at the items you're buying.

We spent our last hour visiting the University colleges, parks and buildings. They're absolutely breath-taking; you really don't feel like you're in a city with the culture and architecture that surrounds you. Oxford is one of my favourite cities and heading there just for the day made my bank holiday weekend so much more exciting.

If you love Oxford, are thinking of travelling there this year or have some great recommendations for the city, feel free to leave me a comment or tweet me @amie_journalist

For now, here's just some of the pictures I took on my trip:

The power of using and understanding social media

Image from Pexels

As you know, I recently wrote a post on why I use social media and it got me thinking. Social media is something that we simply cannot escape from, from updating Snapchat stories to re-tweeting celebrities, Instagram stalking to enhancing our profiles on LinkedIn, it's become an everyday activity.

A recent survey by UM's Wave indicated that 85% of social media users actively spend time managing their profiles online and compared to 2010, people are 40% less likely to see social networks as a place for fun and entertainment and are 30% more likely to see them as platforms on which to promote themselves.

I may not be the most social media savvy, but being a millennial and growing up with the use of social media platforms and emerging technology definitely has its positives. Here are my three top tips on how to utilise social media:

Use your own voice

When writing online, don't pretend to be someone you're not. Whether it's writing simple status updates to long blog posts or instant messaging, make sure it's written in a way that promotes your best self. Use similar language to what you'd use in everyday life while talking to family or friends and be genuine in how you come across. You don't want to find yourself meeting someone for the first time and realise that your online persona is completely different to what you're actually like.

Keep on top of it

When running online accounts to use professionally, make sure you keep on top of it. For example, try to tweet at least 4 times a day to show that you're involving yourself in discussion and current affairs. Re-tweeting people in the same industry or users who you look up to will help your activity as well as engaging in conversation, through instant messaging or commenting on someone's tweet, image or announcement. You'll be amazed how many people notice engagement on your feed, just by a simple re-tweet or comment.

Remember all social media platforms

When starting up social media accounts, most people will focus on Twitter, Instagram and a Facebook page. They're easy to use, have a large following and you can find relatable posts with just a one-word search. However, I've found that even using LinkedIn as another source has provided me with professional engagement and helped me gain contacts in the industry. Potential employers can access your account and posting solely professional content can increase your employability. Using social media platforms that are relevant to your business or brand is so important - for example, using Pinterest if you're an interior enthusiast, SoundCloud if you're a musician or The Dots if you want to exhibit projects you've been a part of.

I spoke to Rhiannon Birch who co-founded Cheshire Cat Marketing with Darren Finder. Her top tips for social media can be adapted to suit any business or personal account:

"While sending out the occasional routine tweet is ok, try to aim for quality over quantity. Interact with users or perhaps post on particular trends, even if they're outside of your usual business subjects... don't be afraid to be spontaneous."

"Don't forget to interact with people"

"Prioritising saves time and energy and allows you or your team to get on with answering questions. Don't forget to interact with people on your pages as well though, customers appreciate a personal interaction and it increases loyalty."

"Scour the web for mentions of your organisations name (which also works with your name as a professional or blogger) and whichever social media channels you find yourself mentioned on, create a page! By creating your page and making yourself known though great organic content and advertising, the customers will find you and they will appreciate you creating a space for them."

Using hashtags is another great way to interact. Here's a tweet using professional interaction that got me a lot of response! Are these social media tips helpful for you?

I'm currently writing a blog post all about social media📱 What are your top social media tips?✨#journorequest @UKBloggers1
— Amie Rhone (@amie_journalist) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 take a break from it every once in a while! 💕💕
— Niffler (@allaimeewrites) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 'Just do you' Don't upload something because you think others want you too. Stay true to yourself.
— Amanda Bootes (@AmandaBootes) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 It's important to create conversations, not just plugging your own brand in every post. Promote others.
— Krissy Lloyd (@krissy_lloyd) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 Never be negative!
— Lucy Smith (@Lucyannasmith) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 don't put anything on social media that you wouldn't want your grandmother to see!
— Vic Dadson (@VicClicky) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 keep it social! Focus on making connections not sales and the results will follow.
— Rebecca Coupe (@rebeccacoupe) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @PRJournoRequest @UKBloggers1 ask questions to start a conversation.
— Jonathan Pollinger (@intranetfuture) March 23, 2017

Social media: Why I use it and what it means to me

Image from Pixabay

Contacts

One of the first tips I was told as a student journalist is to make sure my social media is up to scratch; constantly updated, chat with industry professionals online, remove old or inappropriate posts and follow the people that you aspire to be like or who has your dream job. This is probably the best advice I've been told. Since posting professional content, I've seen an increase in activity, with followers from industry professionals and a bigger following on my blog. Building contacts is good in any profession and you never know what you'll get from following someone on Twitter or commenting on someone's Instagram post.

News

Social media has changed the way in which traditional news platforms report news. Most people now see stories first on Facebook, especially if they follow any news outlets on there, but even through shares, likes and comments. Newspapers are now providing digital content for the majority of their stories; political, entertainment, business or just general news, helping more people than ever become interested in news. Over 80% of people now source their news online and social media has been the biggest influence on that number, especially in generating more people, who wouldn't have before, to read news.

Family

Keeping in contact with my family is so important to me, especially as my family live all over the UK and since my Uncle moved over to Madrid. Social media completely changed the way I chat to my family and friends, with it being so easy to keep in touch, see what people are up to and message them. From double-tapping pictures and videos on Instagram to liking status's on Facebook and messaging each other, I feel closer than ever to my family who I may not see as often as I'd like... simply down to the introduction of social media!

Trends

Similarly to news outlets, trending stories have completely changed the way that news is now provided. Whether it's a trending hashtag on Twitter to a story on Facebook, trends are purely there because so many people are talking about a certain topic. It now takes just seconds to open an app and see what's going on; a killer speech at the Grammys, important election results, the latest sports scores or even a pregnancy reveal!

Job Opportunities

Social media isn't just about checking in with your friends and having a laugh. As I've made my way through university, I've realised how important social media accounts are in reflecting your brand, personality and enthusiasm when it comes to future careers. Creating a professional Facebook and Twitter account helped my following and got me in touch with people I wouldn't have dreamed about speaking to before and creating a LinkedIn account is certainly the best thing I could have done while looking for job opportunities. Don't hold back when it comes to getting your name out there and showing your skills off!

Check out this post for tips on how to transform your social media:

Up and Running

Image from Infinity House Magazine

At the beginning of 2017, I didn't make any resolutions. Instead, I decided to be spontaneous; try my best, do things that make me happy and take things as they come. Something I have stuck to, so far, is running frequently. And here's why...

I really enjoy running, however, it's something I've always struggled with. From cross country at middle school to bleep tests at high school, I was always trailing at the back, struggling on but still giving it a go! I love the idea of running, I'm sure many people can associate themselves with that, but when it actually comes to heading out, I feel silly and worry about being slow.

That's definitely changed. I don't care how slow I am running, I'm still lapping everyone sat on their sofas at home! My times have improved on every run I have done and I'm feeling the difference. I now look forward to going for a run and don't mind when I'm left at the back. It probably helps that I run around country villages, down lanes and through fields; it's so pretty and takes my mind off what I'm actually doing.

Another reason why I decide to start running was that it makes me happier. No, I'm not moody... but since starting university, I've been getting so stressed, especially now in my final year. Running takes my mind off the piles of work and assignments I have to complete and makes me think more positively, improving my motivation to do work and be more enthusiastic.

So, although I may not be the best at running (I mean, I wouldn't even think about a 10K!), it's definitely made me a more energised, enthusiastic person. Oh, and I'm feeling a little happier about throwing on a bikini this summer too!

It's a new month! Stay accountable and let us know, what goal are you going to tackle in February? pic.twitter.com/oxwuCfO1Nj

— Women's Running (@WomensRunning) February 1, 2017

Who run the world? GIRLS.

I love reading other blogs and finding my favourites when it comes to travel, beauty, lifestyle and fashion. I typically follow UK bloggers as I prefer their style of writing and can relate myself to the places they visit, restaurants they eat at and the brands they wear! Reading other blogger's posts and watching their vlogs definitely motivates my style of writing and gives me ideas for posts myself, however, I do really just enjoy looking at their work and finding out how they got where they are now.

Here's my 5 favourite female bloggers:

1. Carrie at wishwishwish.net

Carrie's blog is full of wedding ideas at the moment; calligraphy, honeymooning, decor and dresses. But hunt through her posts and you'll find fun travel features, from Disneyland to European city breaks, with serious style throughout.

2. Victoria at inthefrow.com

You'll find everything from holiday styles, destinations and top tips to reflection posts about bullying and anxiety on Victoria's blog. She writes something for everyone and her latest trip to LA is already giving me serious holiday envy!

3. Lydia at lydiaelisemillen.com

Lydia's style is impeccable and her clothing haul vlogs are brilliant to watch. From fitness tips to holiday's, her engagement video to London shopping trips... she's definitely one to add on snapchat too for a great insight into what she does.

4. Suzie at hello-october.com

City breaks, high-street fashion and beautiful interiors own Suzie's blog and Instagram. Her eye for design is obviously something that she entwines through all of her work... even the clothes she wears! Her nude and black wardrobe is seriously amazing.

5. Claire at chouquette.co.uk

As well as her incredible Chanel bag collection, Claire's blog is full of beautiful clothing, shoes, makeup and lifestyle tips. Her wardrobe tour vlog is enough to make anyone jealous, but there's no doubt she's a down-to-earth girl who works hard for her style!

10 places I want to visit before I'm 30

Image from Tumblr

I love travelling. Career and education options have meant that I don't have a free 6 months to actually leave the UK and explore the world but that doesn't stop me from visiting as many different countries as possible, immersing myself into different cultures and dreaming of a couple of weeks away. Travelling is my main motivation. When I had a part-time job, any extra shifts I saw as an addition to my holiday fund or spending money for an upcoming holiday. Now, I save as much money as possible and think ahead... places I want to visit in the near future and which destinations will be best for me once I start teaching!

I love looking ahead and setting a holiday as my ambition, whether it be saving for a couple of years for a long-haul dream holiday or looking forward to a well needed European break. Turning 30 seems a million miles away right now, but it's only 9 years and will probably fly by. So, here's my 10 (maybe a bit too optimistic) destinations I would love to travel to before I turn 30:

1. Rome

I always wanted to travel through Italy but I don't think that will be possible for now. I'd love to still travel to Italy and have a lot of Italian destinations on my 'to do' list, with Rome being the first one. Starting in the Capital seems like a good idea and there's plenty to see and do; architecture, shopping, culture and food, not to forget a trip to watch Roma (with strict instructions: 'we HAVE to go before Totti retires'). Better get booking up then!

2. Cambodia

Cambodia looks absolutely incredible. Ideally, I'd love to do a multi-centre trip, stopping in either Vietnam or Thailand too, as it works out much cheaper than visiting the countries at different times. However, Cambodia is probably number 1 on the list, specifically, Angkor Wat. Just looking at images and other posts about this amazing temple complex is enough to want to visit.

3. Morocco

Marrakech is a destination that I seem to always be on the lookout for. You can grab some bargains at secluded Riads which lie down maze-like side streets, close to the hustle and bustle of the centre. I'd love to explore the incredible mosques, palaces and gardens that this city has to offer, not to mention the traditional marketplaces where you can find brilliant hidden gems.

4. Madrid

Madrid is another city that I've always wanted to travel to, especially since my uncle moved out there. There's plenty to see and do, from tasty restaurants to traditional markets and I can easily do this city on a budget from all the suggestions and tips I've received from my family!

5. Odessa

This one may seem a little unusual, but I seem to have fallen for this city since reading about what it has to offer. The Southern Ukrainian city has some of the most beautiful beaches and the grand Primorsky Boulevard, which lies parallel to the ocean, is lined with impressive mansions and monuments. Seriously picturesque, and the weather's not bad in the summer too.

6. Mauritius

Another holiday destination that we nearly booked up for this year, but decided against, is Mauritius. However, it's still somewhere I would absolutely love to visit for many reasons; the culture, food, beaches and beautiful scenery. One of those 'once in a lifetime' holidays full of luxurious beaches, exquisite food and pinch-yourself moments.

7. Dublin

Staying a little closer to home for this one! Dublin has always been somewhere I'd like to give a go for a long weekend away. My best friend visited last year and family have also told me about their drunken Dublin adventures, and it seems like the perfect place to escape to. There's plenty to do; shopping, sights, pubs and restaurants, the ideal weekend getaway.

8. Florence

My second Italian escape on the list is Florence. I recently watched a television programme on the Tuscan city and it just made my decision even clearer. It's full to the brim with culture, art and architecture and looks insanely beautiful from every angle. Perhaps a little quieter than Rome, but that doesn't stop it from being just as cultural and ideal for a couple's holiday.

9. Jamaica

My Mum often speaks of her holiday's to Jamaica and it gives me serious holiday envy. From the famous Dunns River Falls to Kingston Town, Seven Mile beach to the secluded Miracle Spring, the picturesque island seems so inclusive and I'd love to explore the wonders it has to offer.

10. Moscow

I never thought I loved cities as much as beach holidays... until I wrote this list. There's a definite theme developing! Moscow is another wonderfully pretty city that I want to visit, for many reasons. The city seems to wow visitors with its majesty and history, not to mention it's wonderful landmarks and impressive skyline.

Film Review: La La Land

Image from film premiere

With 2016 leaving our hearts heavy, the new year has just been made a lot more uplifting with "La La Land" gracing our screens.

I'm not sure what I was expecting from the film as I hadn't seen the trailer, but I absolutely loved it. The first 10 minutes of "La La Land" were very cheesy, almost cringe-worthy, however, the storyline picked up instantly, with Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling taking centre stage as LA dreamers for two hours of warm, musically spirited, feel-good cinema.

The storyline is very typical; two people, lots of parties, love, fun and laughter. It is however, unique in the way that there are hardly any other characters. I mean, we see and listen to other people throughout the film, but they're never introduced. That's what makes it so good. You are fully immersed into the lives of Sebastian, a jazz musican who's making his way through small gigs and backyard parties, and Mia, an aspiring actress and playwright, in their journey together.

Sebastian wants to open a jazz club and Mia is desperate to make it on the big screen which is where their relationship falls complicated; How will they both reach their ambitions? It’s not until Sebastian lands a gig with his old musician colleague, played by a charmingly no-nonsense John Legend, that his priorities and paths take a turn. Mia is keen to keep things working, but with both her career and relationship weakening, she finds herself with no option other than to decide what's best for her.

There isn't too much to give away from the film and I'm sure that most of you have it on your 'to do' list anyway, but I personally believe that "La La Land" is a wonderful piece of retro cinema, with a twinkle of contemporary LA. One which leaves you beaming from ear-to-ear. One that will most definitely go down in history.

24 hours in...

Bath is one of my favourite places to visit. It boasts great shopping and fun restaurants, while still being a historical and beautiful place to visit.

This weekend, I headed to Bath to check out their famous Christmas markets and inspire myself for a the festive season (less than 2 weeks to go!).

The spa town was just as busy as I was expecting, even in the pouring rain, but that didn't stop me! After a quick stop for lunch, we headed for cover in the usual high-street stores; Topshop, Urban Outfitters, Jack Wills and All Saints.

We were pretty unsuccessful in our Christmas shopping trip and ended up buying for ourselves but that's what sales are for right?!

The Christmas markets in Bath certainly didn't disappoint, with mulled wine, traditional German food and hot chocolate flowing, the atmosphere was brilliant. We didn't have time to check out the ice rink but by what I'be heard, it's pretty impressive!

Bath has always been one of my favourite places to visit and certainly is beautiful, even in the rain. I can't wait to visit the markets again next year and hopefully have a spin on the ice rink! Hopefully next time the sun will shine.

My top 5 stalls:

FELT SO GOOD : such a cute stall with everything felt; stockings, Christmas decorations and Pom Pom's just to name a few! Such a unique way to decorate your home at Christmastime.

THE GREAT STONE BAKER: The perfect place to grab a bite to eat as you wonder around the wooden huts. Top tip: go for the pulled pork on a bed of chips - you won't be disappointed!

POLLYFIELDS: Get into the Christmas spirit with door wreaths, scented candles and oils and the prettiest pot pourri!

THE BATH GIN COMPANY: Sample lots of different flavours of local gin. It'll definitely get you into that Christmas spirit!

JACKDAW: This stall will definitely catch your eye among the Christmas decs and food stalls! Beautiful Moroccan design and colourful glass brings a taste of the Medina to Bath.