Can’t get enough of Love Island?! Thought so! We recently caught up with gorgeous Love Island season 4 runner-up, Laura Anderson, who just happens to live in Dubai!

She shared with us what she’s been up to, her thoughts on the newest season (she’s changed her favourites already!) And get insight into what life was like for her on the Island.

Cosmo ME: Can you give us a little background on yourself and your connection to Love Island?

Laura: I left Dubai very suddenly and on the ‘down low’ (of course) in May 2018, to go on UK hit TV show Love Island as an original cast member. Luckily, I didn’t fall at the first hurdle and saw things through to be placed runner up of Season 4. Woo! I gave up my 8 year career at Emirates to venture on the show and, although I’ve never looked back, 3 years on I am physically back in the sandpit and loving my new and improved life in my old home!

C: What was your experience like on Love Island?

L: It was definitely turbulent (excuse the pun) but that pretty much sums up my previous dating experience here in Dubai so I wouldn’t have it any other way. Love Island was a once in a lifetime experience that I’ll treasure forever, absolutely no regrets. The reality is it brought me back here to the love of my life which I’m super grateful for.

C: What are your thoughts on the latest season of Love Island? Do you have any favourite participants?

L: I’m addicted already of course. Faye was my favourite initially but its switched so quickly to Liberty and Chloe shockingly. I know a lot of people view reality TV and specifically Love Island as quite a superficial show but for me it’s the opposite. I think being in there really teaches young people to see past appearances and even for the viewer to not judge a book by its cover. I’m excited to watch relationships evolve and individuals come into their own.

C: What advice would you give to the newest cast members?

L: My main piece of advice is to be there for each other because it’s an emotional rollercoaster. A support system away from normal surroundings really means the world. Also, just to realise even when it all gets too much weeks down the line that they’re all so lucky to be there and millions of people are loving and supporting them on the outside.

C: Do you live in Dubai permanently now? Any exciting projects you’re working on?

Laura: Yes, I’m 100% back in UAE full time. I’m currently working on launching my very own fashion line ‘Not Another Dress’ and pursuing my a hobby as a DJ. My boyfriend Dane is an amazing teacher, we just might need to get some headphones for our little dog buddy bless him. I also used to be a hairdresser, with many of my clients still here I’m considering opening up a salon next year too if everything goes to plan!

C: What’s one thing you’d like Cosmo readers to know about you?

L: I think one thing that was mentioned a lot from Love Island that was a little bit of a misunderstanding is my age and the stigma around being too old or looking a certain way. I just want to say to all woman out there, there are no rules, age is just a number so look, feel and be whoever you want to be and whenever you want!