25 Things To Do Before You Settle Down
Domestic bliss is all very lovely, but before you and a man make a pledge to go off into the sunset together, there are a lot of good times to be had while you're still a single girl. Here's our list of the top 25 things you must DO while you're footloose and fancy-free. Think we missed some? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Bigpicturesphoto.comMake the first move
Don't spend the rest of your life wondering about the one who got away. If you've got your eye on someone, make the move - like Katy Perry did when she set her sights on Russell Brand last year. Whether it ends up being a rampant fling or a dead loss, at least you'll know!
WENNTravel solo
There's something lbierating about holidaying alone, and a confident solo traveller is one attractive woman. DO choose a busy destination with plenty of culture and a wide variety of visitors...you DON'T want to be stuck in honeymoon land!
iStockTry internet dating
Most long-married people secretly wonder what it would have been like to have a blind date, and now internet dating is 100% acceptable, have some fun trying it out. Speed dating has got to be done, too.
Rex FeaturesGet fit
It's never too soon to start a fitness regime: it lifts the mood, keeps you trim and builds the stamina for sex sessions.
PA PhotosRise to the challenge
Ever fancied running a marathon, sky-diving or learning to snorkel? Your single years are the perfect time to take on new challenges - do it while you have the time.
Rex FeaturesSnog a stranger - or two
We're not suggesting grabbing randoms of the street, but locking lips with a handsome stranger at, say, a wedding, is something we all need to do before settling down.
iStockBe spontaneous
Take a day off work, pack a bag and jump on a train/boat/plane to anywhere you like - maybe somewhere you've never even heard of - for a genuine solo adventure.
PA PhotosGo to festivals
Spend a summer going to as many festivals as possible - if you do decide to have kids, or end up saving for years for a mortgage, this could be your last chance for a while to have a big hippy blow-out.
iStockTravel the world
If you're in a position to take a few months, or even a year out - do it. Whether alone or with friends, backpacking (or a more glam equivalent) will broaden the mind and give you plenty of experiences to look back on with pride.
PA PhotosDate a younger man
If you've accumulated a bit of sexual know-how there's nothing like showing a cute younger guy the ropes. He'll remember you for the rest of his life, and you'll have quite a power trip.
Big PicturesWork out who your real friends are
As you get older, you realise that some mates just aren't as much fun, or supportive as others. Focus your time on your best friends, and if the time comes, decisions like wedding invites will be a lot easier.
PA PhotosLive out your fantasies
Whether you've wondered about bondage, threesomes or outdoor sex, find a partner who can help you explore all this safely. There's no telling if the man of your dreams will be as open-minded!
iStockTake risks
If you're offered a tempting job abroad, or a promotion in a different town, now's the time to accept while you have no ties. It's also a good time to change career direction entirely - thinking of retraining? Do it now!
iStockTake a girls' holiday
Go abroad with your best girlfriends. You don't have to be on the pull: the girlie bonding will help your spirit soar and it'll be something you'll always remember.
iStockMake a list
Have a think about what really makes you happy in life: career, friends, interests, activities, etc. Now's the time to get your life into order so you're the best, happiest person you can be when it comes time to settle down.
iStockGet set up
Your friends know you well, so do let them fix you up if they think they've found you a perfect man. Even if it's not love at first sight, you might make a good mate out of it.
iStockTalk about sex, baby
Be really frank with your boyfriends about sex. Find out what they like, and what feels amazing. If you're having a fling, that's the best time to ask for a quick tutorial if there's a sexy skill you want to learn - then you can wow your dream man when you meet him!
iStockKnow your body
Even more importantly, be honest with partners - and yourself - about what you like in bed and what really turns you on, however embarrassing it might seem. Getting to know your own responses will help you have a happy sex life for years to come.
iStockDe-clutter
If you're likely to move in with someone, then you'll have to share space. It'll make the move much smoother if you've already streamlined your possessions!
iStockKeep a diary
It's fascinating to look back on your thoughts and dreams from your younger years. Start keeping a diary now and it'll help you build your self-awareness both now and in the future.
istockphotoTry toys
There are some sensational sex toys on the market - find the right one for you, and you can incorporate it into your sex life for many years to come. Throw an Ann Summers party if you're feeling really retro!
iStockExperiment with your wardrobe
While you're a lady of relative leisure, go into shops and try on clothes you would never normally wear - you never know what might surprise you by suiting you.
PA PhotosBuy something ridiculous
While you have a disposable income that you're not spending on a mortgage/kids, you should treat yourself to several extravagant handbags, with no one to suggest you shouldn't!
iStockThrow a great party
Once in your life you have to throw a proper rager - and it's much easier to do when you don't need to negotiate with your other half! Invite everyone (and by everyone, we particularly mean any blokes you've got your eye on) round to your flat for a Saturday night that stretches well into Sunday, or take over your local park for an all-day session.
Stay out all night
Now, we're sure you've done this already, but do take advantage of your freedom to party all night, when the time is right. Have fun!
