Harry Potter Studio Tour, London

Well hello to you my reader chums! October, the month autumn kicks in and the festivities begin, has been a busy one, to say the least. With a solo trip to Athens, Fifth Harmony concert, Harry Potter Studios, and all the small fun moments in between, it's swept by very quickly. 

I've been to Harry Potter world a couple of years back and was thrilled to be visiting again, especially with the launch of the Hogwarts Express, an exhibit I hadn't seen the last time.

I don't want to give away any hidden surprises when heading on the tour, however after a mini film you watch, sharing all the Harry Potter knowledge, the tour begins in the famous Great Hall. Even though I've seen it before, there's nothing more mesmerising than the doors opening and walking into Hogwarts!

Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studios Tour London

I find the whole idea of discovering behind the scene secrets and how production commences completely fascinating so if you're like me, then you'll adore the London studios. Every turn revealed various surprising elements about the Harry Potter tales from the plot, makeup, special effects, film production, architecture, and design to secret tips they performed, bringing the magic to life on screen.

Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studios Tour London Weasley House

After the Great Hall, you'll discover many of the scenery, props, and costumes used in film production. I loved walking around this area, getting an insight into every little detail that created the wonders of the Harry Potter film collection.

Harry Potter Studios Tour London

Harry Potter Studios Tour London 9 3/4

The most exciting area for me was seeing the Hogwarts Express, entering the famous platform 9 and 3 quarters. The striking train was brilliant, bringing all the features in the film to life. There's even a green screen exhibit to act out like you're on the train, a definite must-see when visiting!

Hogwarts express Harry Potter

Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studios Tour London

I love how you can re-enact walking into the wall with your trolley and had to take the typical candid shot!

Hogwarts express Harry Potter tour

Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studios Tour London

Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studios Tour London
Harry Potter Studios Tour London Privet Drive

Another highlight was Privet Drive and entering the house, something new available to view since my last visit. The three of us, Chloe me and Danielle captured a photo in front of our new home! Even though it's surreal seeing the costumes and smaller props, there's nothing more amazing than viewing buildings or bigger areas of the set used in the making of the films.

Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studios Tour London Privet Drive

Hogwarts bridge Harry Potter Studios


Harry Potter Studios Hogwarts bridge

Harry Potter Studios Tour London cable car

Harry Potter car

Harry Potter bus

Diagon Alley Harry Potter

Once seeing many of the sets and scenery, my favourite part was walking through Diagon Alley, witnessing even more of the streets brought to life. I love the attention to detail on every single building, it makes everything that extra more special.

Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studios Tour London Hogwarts

The most iconic and memorable part that will forever give me goosebumps is seeing the entire Hogwarts building in real life. The number of pictures you'll see is never as special as witnessing it with your own eyes. Surrounded by magical music, the details and lights shining through the architecture have left me in awe; I'm thrilled to have visited Hogwarts again.

'Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home'

I hope you enjoyed this insight into London's Harry Potter Studios Tour. What's your favourite part?

Thank you for reading <3


How to deal with travel anxiety at the airport

Well hello to you my reader chums! If you read my last post about travelling to Athens solo and seen my anxiety article, you'd know going to places on my own isn't my strongest point. It took a whole lot of courage to get to this stage and actually do it, so I wanted to share my best tips with you all, to anyone who either suffers from anxiety, has a fear of travelling alone or is a bit nervous about an upcoming trip.

Easyjet plane in the sky

Whether you're new to travelling or feel anxious about your next trip, here are my best tips on how to deal with travel anxiety at the airport.

Have a rough plan for your trip

One of the things I found to put my mind at ease was planning every bit of my solo journey at the airport to Greece. For instance, I made a list of what I needed to do at the airport before boarding and kept myself busy so I didn't have time to get worked up. I treated myself to a Pret breakfast, put my makeup on and unwinded flicking through a magazine, prior to departure, keeping my mind busy.

 I planned out in my mind when I got off the plane to go through security and walk out to find my aunt. With set goals and things, I knew I had to do, gave me things to focus on rather than my mind being left astray with worry.

Bring distractions to keep your mind busy

On the plane or when chilling at the airport, distractions will give your mind something to do if worry begins to sink in or time isn't passing by. I'm an avid book reader so always bring along a book for the plane ride. Magazines are a good shout if you'd love something just to flick through or mini colouring books are easy to travel with. 

I take my headphones everywhere to either listening to my favourite albums or the calming apps, in case an anxiety attack strikes. Calm.com, Headspace and Relax lite are both apps that help with your breathing and play soothing music, essentially relaxing you.

Wear comfy clothing 

Short or long haul flight, comfort is key when you're stuck in the same seat for a long time. I always like to wear something cosy, whether that's a jumper and gypsy pants or a dress, whichever is easy to sit in for a long period. 

A travel pillow is another essential for pure comfort and ease, especially if you're like me, finding it difficult to sleep on planes. On the flight I just had, my best friend bought me a travel pillow and it was the most amazing thing ever - I was actually able to sleep there and back! A scarf or really long cardigan is perfect also to snuggle up when you're feeling tired.

Take your 'comfort blanket' or home comforts

Being an anxious person, I always find travelling that extra bit easier when I have some homely comforts with me or my 'safety blanket' of friends. As I was travelling alone, I made sure to wear my trusty travelling jumper I put on for every trip. This gave me a little reassurance that I had my comforting item along for the ride.

Let the excitement take over 

Easier said than done, but when the worries are taking over, you can never really feel the excitement and adventure that lays ahead for a trip. Instead of focusing on everything that could go wrong on the journey/trip, think of all the exciting things you'll see, memories you'll make and the fun which is coming. 

Worrying takes the joy away from every situation and even though anxiety can take control, you have every power to control it. Let the excitement build up and tear your anxieties down.

Travelling and experiencing new adventures makes my heart soar. Over the past year, I've visited so many new places and I'm incredibly grateful. Yes, I suffer from anxiety but I haven't let it take over my desire to travel and see new things. I'm not anxiety, I'm Della, an avid traveller and dreamer. I want to see the world and won't let anxiety stop me. You can do this. You can do whatever you put your mind to! Create those stories, make unforgettable memories and be brave.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What are your best tips for tackling travel anxiety?

Thank you for reading <3

Athens: A solo adventure ❤️

Well hello to you my reader chums! The Monday just gone, I embarked on a solo trip to Athens in Greece for a few days, to visit my family. Travelling has become an obsession of mine, I love nothing more than planning the next adventure, booking flights and heading away, delving into a new culture. This time was a bit different, I usually travel with my friends however I had to fly on my own, something that made me extremely anxious. I'm proud to say, I did it, anxious Della managed to travel to Athens and back, enjoying quality time with her aunt and cousins, a statement I'd never thought I would make.

Plane travel must have essentials

On Monday, I arrived at Gatwick around 4am, ready for my early 6am flight. As I was only bringing hand luggage, I went straight through security, bought a Pret breakfast and chilled until my gate number was called. I then hopped on the plane and was up in the air before I knew it. Being so early in the morning, sleep took over and I tried to get a few hours in before arriving in Athens around 11.45am Greek time.

EasyJet flight to Athens

For the first day, it was incredibly chilled, taking a drive around the area with my aunt, cousins and spending that special time, catching up over a glass of wine.

Athens flea market

Tuesday, my aunt and I hopped on the train, travelling down to main city centre of Athens. I hadn't been here in a few years since visiting last when I was about 13 years old! We had a browse around the flea market area, buying gifts for friends, family, admiring the sites and absorbing the heart-warming ambience.

Fresh pommegrante juice at Athens flea market

Taking a break, we stopped off for a beverage and I opted for fresh pomegranate juice! It was the most incredible juice I've tasted, a hundred times better to what we get in the UK. Usually pomegranate is bitter to me, but the fresh kind was sweet and refreshing, I loved it.

Athens city centre

Nearby to the Acropolis which you can see in the distance was the Library of Hadrian's remains. We took a gander around, soaking up the historic evidence that lay beneath us. Surrounded by colourful houses and blooming plants, the contrast of time is impeccable to experience.

Athens city centre - Library of Hadrian

Nutella and Stracciatella ice cream in Athens

Time for an ice cream pitstop! I chose a blend of my favourite flavours Nutella and Stracciatella with a drizzle of more Nutella on the top; dessert heaven at its finest.

Athens city centre
Monastiraki Square church


Next to the flea market and bustling shops sits the famous Monastiraki Square, known for one of Athen's largest monasteries. Now, however most of the monastery is demolished, aside from the small church still standing. I love visiting churches so we took a little look inside, lighting a candle for our loved ones.

Athens city centre

The city centre of Athens is stunning with tucked away restaurants, cafes, shops and market sellers at every turn. It's a welcoming location filled with historical significance, colourful buildings and budding nature; a place suited for every walk of life. I'd happily go back over and over again!

Sunset views from the village.


One of the days, my cousin and I headed to a shopping mall buying a few sneaky treats in Sephora then took a browse around one of the nearby towns. Every corner is designed with so much character; cute lampposts, detailed tiling and sensational architecture, never fails to amaze me.


Kalamos beach, Attica

The weather was very spring like on my trip, so on Thursday my aunt and I took a trip down to the nearby beach area, Kalamos, Attica. There's no place I love better than the beach, growing up with the seaside on my doorstep. Kalamos, holds so much beauty; the rippling clear waters, pebbly beach and charismatic harbour, nestled by the mountainous lands that lay ahead was enough to blow me away. The best way to describe it is by peacefulness of the entire location. We took a walk around then stopped for a hot drink, enjoying a good old fashioned natter.

Kalamos beach, Attica

Kalamos beach, Attica

Kalamos beach, Attica

Kalamos beach, Attica

The trip as a whole was a truly relaxing and eye opening break away. I stepped out my comfort zone, conquering many of my fears travelling alone, spent some quality time with my family and witnessed many beautiful sights. I wish I could go back right now!

I hope you enjoyed this little insight into my trip to Athens. Have you ever visited?

Thank you for reading <3


Fifth Harmony's 7/27 tour London

Well hello to you my reader chums! October is swinging by fast and Fifth Harmony's London tour was over before I knew it. I bought the tickets a few months back and have been buzzing ever since, listening to their albums continuously on repeat. It's safe to say, they didn't disappoint and put on an incredible show! They bring sass, stunning vocals and girl power; I love them. If you haven't listened to their album, I'd 100% recommend it. It's full of feel-good tunes, edgy dance tracks and slow ballad numbers so a true mix for everyone.

London train journey

Dining before the concert

They only had one date in London and thanks to 02 priority, I was able to grab some fabulous seats, the front row of section B on the floor! I've never stood on the 02 floor for a concert before so was beyond excited for the experience. On Monday, my best friend Danielle and I headed up to London, stopping off for a bite to eat before the show.

Gourmet burger kitchen burger meal

We chose to dine in Gourmet Burger Kitchen, a winner for both of us. I opted for the delicious skinny fries, classic chicken burger and chocolate milkshake; delicious!

Fifth Harmony's 7/27 tour London

02 concert experience of Fifth Harmony's 7/27 tour London 

Fifth Harmony's 7/27 tour London tickets

The 02 London outside

Once the opening acts had performed, we eagerly awaited Fifth Harmony's arrival! They started the show with 'That's My Girl', one of my favourite songs from the album, completely lighting up the stage. The girls sang and danced their hearts out to all the famous songs, creating an electric atmosphere! Danielle and I were boogying and singing away, it was so much fun.

Fifth Harmony on stage at the 02

Not only did they have sensational voices, they truly know how to put on a show! The choreographed routines were incredible - the Fifth Harmony girls certainly know how to move.

Fifth Harmony on stage at the 02

I loved it all but my favourite performances were the number one hit 'Worth it', 'Work from Home', 'That's My Girl', 'Brave Honest & Beautiful', 'Boss', 'Sledgehammer' and 'Gonna get better'! It's hard to pick only one favourite song as I was blown away by the entire set.

Fifth Harmony on stage at the 02
Fifth Harmony on stage at the 02

If they toured in the UK again, I would definitely see them for the second time! Sassy, stunning and sexy, Fifth Harmony put on an unmissable performance.

Emily Middlemass 2016 x factor at Fifth Hamony

As I mentioned, we were very close to the front and I spotted this year X Factor girls walk to their seats right across from us so had to say hello to Emily Middlemass. She was a true gem and it was lovely to meet my favourite from this year's line up!

I hope you enjoyed an overlook at the Fifth Harmony concert! Do you have a favourite song of theirs?

Thank you for reading <3

September favourites ❤️

Well hello to you my reader chums! September flew right past and autumn was at our feet before we knew it. For me the past few weeks have been very busy filled with celebrations, last minute summer fun and preparations for the autumn months (aka a lot of clothes shopping). I didn't really try out any new products throughout the month, yet fell back in love with a few of all my old gems that I wanted to share with you.

Here are my monthly favourites:

September favourites 2016

September favourites 2016

Lush cosmetics Brazened honey facemask

'Brazened Honey' Lush Cosmetics facemask - When the cooler weather hit, my skin tends to break out and becomes a tad more sensitive than in the summer months. Autumn is all about cosiness and a time I like to treat myself more with relaxing baths and facemasks on a regular basis. I recently picked up my holy grail of facemasks, Lush's Brazened Honey when I popped into my local shop. As I collected over 5 pots, I got this one free, which is a complete bonus! I could speak endless good things about this product - Once applied, the scent lingers throughout the room and feels completely fresh on the skin. Even though the exfoliant is tough, it's not harsh on the skin at all so helps washes away any excess dirt or makeup, leaving the skin fresh, smooth and revitalised. The pot I would say can make around 6-8 masks, depending on how thick you layer them up. It's the perfect option to go for if you have normal to oily and sensitive skin like me as it's not overly perfumed.

L'oreal's infallible primer

L'oreal's Infallible primer - The L'oreal primer has been an obsession of mine for a good few months now but I feel like it deserves a shout out again this month. With the weather changing from baking hot summer days to rainy, windy autumn, this primer ensures long lasting makeup whatever the season. When we had sweltering days in September, my face still managed to cling onto the makeup using this beauty as with rainy periods. The consistency is gel like, it sinks into the skin like a dream and guarantees makeup wear all day long, I cannot fault it! An 100% recommendation for those with normal to oily skin.

Sleek's Solstice highlighting palette

Sleek's Solstice highlighting palette - Hyped and adored by the whole beauty blogging community, Sleek's famous rose gold palette has stolen every body's hearts. Over the past few weeks, I've rediscovered this beauty and have been using it on a daily basis. For that extra shimmery highlight I love to use the cream based shade on the tops of my cheekbones, brow and cupids bow then dust the pink colour over the top; it's divine. The 4 shades are completely versatile, used for a subtle everyday look or glamorous night out!

Maybelline's Lash sensational mascara

Maybelline's Lash Sensational mascara - I've hyped about this mascara for the longest time and still haven't gone back to a different one since discovering it! I wanted to give it an extra shout out this month as I've been wearing a very minimal eye makeup look lately with a touch of eye shadow across the upper lash line and couple coats of mascara. I'm not exaggerating when I say, it's the only mascara I've tried which genuinely holds a curl, lasts all day and lengthens my lashes. A 100% recommend.

Nyx cosmetics matte lip cream in 'Cannes'

Nyx's lip matte cream in  'Cannes' - I'm pretty sure I've featured this product in a favourites before and sung its praises in a recent review, but I'm completely in love. When I want to step up the nude lip game, this lipstick is my got to. The colour is a dark, dusky pink; an absolute dream on the lips. Application is very creamy yet when set, it becomes matte and is very long lasting through eating plus drinking. I definitely need to get my hands on a few more of this fabulous collection! The matte lip creams are a true winner for those who adore matte lip products like me.

I hope you enjoyed my September favourites. Which products have you been loving this month?

Thank you for reading <3