I spend way too much time online... (Top Ten Websites)

Member Name: shopaholicleo

Product:	Top Ten Websites
Date:	02/11/08 (134 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Saves me money, passes the time

Disadvantages: None really, except my history folder is a little samey

I spend far too much time online, most of it procrastinating (facebook stalking) or looking at clothes (asos), but occasionally I can come across the odd gem. Here's a few of my favourites:

1. Facebook.com
If you don't know about this site, then you must be on another planet, no scrap that, in another universe. This social networking site is the biggest and best out there, in my opinion, and is not nearly as confusing as Myspace. I can spend hours on it, mainly refusing application requests, but there is something quite satisfying about seeing an acquaintances over-the-top profile picture or 'eavesdropping' on someone's wall conversations. It's a great site for the Nosey Parker in all of us, but also for the exhibitionist (I must admit, I have perfected about 5 different poses which I use in all my photos). It's nice to have an outlet for your personality online, that you can easily control, and I'd thoroughly recommend joining the masses.

2. Moneysaving Expert
Another site I am always on, as you never know what you'll miss out on. Not only do I get the weekly e-mail, but I regularly scour the forums for food, freebies and student advice. Last month I managed to get free toilet roll, kitchen towels, cleaning spray and long-life milk for my new home (not once but twice, don't ask me how), 1.5 free chickens from Nandos (very cheeky, involved me printing off a voucher quite a few times), a free Air Wick and I'm waiting for free energy saving light bulbs, and some make-up. It's worth going to the extra effort sometimes for maximum reward, so this may involve filling out a few surveys or going to certain stores. I like the fact that if you have any kind of consumer query, you can quickly get some advice and try and sort it out, and even though there are a lot of users, it always seems pretty friendly.

3. Hotmail
The main place I access all of my e-mails, even though a lot of it seems to be junk these days. I like the fact that I can access it anywhere, and there's plenty of storage (for all this junk I receive). It's also incredibly easy to use, with a modern layout, where you can easily send e-mails and attach pictures. I also like the fact that is easy to save any new contacts once you send an e-mail.

4. Surf the Channel/You Tube
File sharing sites can normally be a bit dubious, but surf the channel makes it easy to view tv shows uploaded by it's many users. I am able to keep at U.S Pace with many of my favourite shows, such as Gossip Girl and Ugly Betty. The quality can vary, but shows uploaded to Megavideo are normally pretty good and you can watch them in their entirety (as You Tube often splits their videos into parts). The site is extremely organised, and if you were looking for a specific episode of a TV show, everything is sorted by series and episode number and title. You Tube can also be good for this purpose, but it can take a while to find the show you want, and even if you do it could only be a short clip. What I like is the fact it is topical, with current music videos or dodgy television moments (Kerry Katona on GMTV, anyone?) and I even upload a few of my own videos from time to time.

5. Digital Spy
This site keeps me firmly on the pulse of anything Entertainment related. Again, the forums are the best place to be for discussion, debate and news. When I was the only one in my circle of friends to be watching Summer Heights High, I was able to discuss it online and find out about extra content on YouTube, interviews and DVD releases. It's great to find like minded people and know that you're not the only fan of that obscure TV program or band.

6. Ebay
I regularly sell my impulse buys and other bits and bobs here. You won't make megabucks, but every little bit helps. I've also recently started to buy a few bits, mainly specialist stuff for my course and vintage clothing. Prices can vary, as you mainly bid auction style, but some bargains can be found. I recently bought a 50's style prom dress for £20, about £15 more than the starting price, but a similar style dress was selling in Topshop for £45 and was seen on practically everyone. I like the fact that I have the pick of vintage bits from all over the world, you just have to know what to search for.

7. Daily Mail
Although I don't always agree with the holier-than-thou tone of this newspaper, the website does provide some interesting news and events. It is always updated, so you can always keep track of the latest news and gossip. I just sometimes have to look past the somewhat patronising, moaning tone of some articles, such as 'Jennifer Love Hewitt piles on the pounds', and the negative stance it often takes on women in the media. However, I still end up reading many of these articles, and often disagreeing, but some other fashion related articles can be of interest.

8. Perez Hilton
Notorious for his celebrity gossip, I'm always looking at the latest pictures of celebrities from here and across the pond, though the observations he makes are not always as witty as they could be. I guess it points out that celebrities are far from perfection, but I guess it can be sometimes taken too far (he does seem to have personal vendetta's against certain celebrities, and writes about them in a negative way). Despite this, you know that what he writes is up-to-the minute and occasionally it is humorous. I remain addicted.

9. Dooyoo
Why so low down in the list? Well due to mucho University work, I can't spend as much time on here as I'd like ( and my target seems increasingly further and further away) but I still persevere and write a few reviews. I like the fact that I am paid for writing about my opinions, and although it may not initially seem like that much, it does all add up. I also like seeing other users comments, and does seem to be a friendly atmosphere on here where people are loyal with their reads and rates. I will definitely stick with this site.

10. Topshop/Asos
Fashion is my other addiction apart from the internet, so combine the two and seemingly you have a lethal combination, surely? Well perhaps not, I mainly just browse these sites, and rarely buy anything. My daily glances are really just to see how things are styled, and what exactly is 'in' at the moment, and whether I can get it cheaper anywhere else. On Asos, they have a daily blog with their take on what designer fashion celebrities are wearing and Topshop also takes pride of place on my RSS feed with it's Daily Fix. It's quite easy to see what's new on these sites, and finding something specific like gladiator sandals or riding boots. I mainly use these sites as procrastination, but occasionally I will love something enough to buy it. And then perhaps send it back,.

Summary: What was life even like before the internet?