Whilst it may have seemed that your exams were never going to end or that your essay was going to take over the rest of your life, exam week is over and it’s back to Uni! However, I don’t think it’s fair to launch straight back into hard work (okay, maybe not too much work, but I like to think we all do a little!); and so it’s only fair that you indulge in a few post exam treats!
- Cocktails with the girls
You can turn this into a house affair, a big catch up with everyone you’ve not seen over the holidays or even really cute pre-drinks before heading out somewhere. Whether you fancy having a big night or just doing something different, most girls love going out for cocktails, and in Exeter, we’re spoilt for choice! HCX loves Oddfellows as it’s a lovely space and they do some really tasty cocktails: it’s also perfect if you fancy sneaking round the corner to Timepiece afterwards. If you want something a little bit different, head to 44 Below where cocktails are served in teapots: it’s quite literally gin in a teacup. Check out our definitive guide to going out for cocktails in Exeter here, or our Mean Girls style guide to nightlife here
- Host a dinner party
Whether you want to turn this into a regular affair and start up a “Come Dine with Me” with some of your other friends, or just want a nice night in to hear all the gossip you missed over the holidays, it’s really nice to sit round the table and catch up. It’s also a lot cheaper than going out for a meal and so good to have real home cooked food, not just student cooking! If you want to make it a big night, head out afterwards and really celebrate that you have your social life back!
- Afternoon Tea
If you don’t fancy dinner, or want to make it a girl-only affair, then afternoon tea is such a treat! Whether you go to Boston Tea Party for their amazing coffee and cakes or you want to host the girls, this is a winner! If you’re making afternoon tea this gives you the added advantage of a morning’s baking with your housemates – I don’t think there’s much to complain about here! Whether you should be on the next season of Great British Bake Off or you’re a baking amateur, everyone can rustle up a quick sponge or some brownies. A few teapots and your friends and this is an afternoon you’ll want to repeat more often: perfect for relaxing after all that studying.
- PJ Day and a Movie Marathon
After days on end in the library or staring at your notes, allow yourself to have a PJ day and watch some of your favourite movies – or catch up on all those TV programmes you missed. Personally, I’m opting for a Harry Potter marathon, but if you fancy watching Sex and the City 1 and 2, or are more of a Bond Girl, go for it! Perfect if you want a day with the girls or with your boyfriend – everyone loves a PJ day.
- Pampering Day
Even if your student loan won’t stretch to a trip to the beauticians, this one will be sure to relax you! If you can afford it, or are just in dire need of pampering, head to one of Exeter’s many beauticians to get either a manicure or even a massage (check out our reviews here). It’s totally justifiable: after all those hours of sitting at your desk, your back could be quite knotted… Whether you just want to go on your own or want to drag your housemate, I can think of few girls who wouldn’t enjoy this after weeks of hard work, especially when they’ve been working over Christmas! If you can’t afford to go out for a pamper day, buy in what you need from Boots or Superdrug and stay at home, put on a chick flick and get yourself a glass of wine. Perfection.
Whether you’ve had exams or essays you deserve a treat before throwing yourself into Term 2. These ideas can be suited to any budget and most of them allow you to have a catch up with all the friends you’ve been away from for the last month. Make sure you indulge yourself – you have worked hard after all!
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