Seeing The World
Aberystwyth – “Serenity”
Marie Tornes, English Literature and Creative Writing:
Aberystwyth in Wales is a tiny student town, but it is great in so many ways. It is home of the National Library of Wales; 33% of the population in term-time are students; the surrounding nature is like something out of a fairy-tale and Aberystwyth University is a second home for everyone who has studied there. The town’s location makes it a centre point between the North and the South of Wales, and the gorgeous coastline is every student’s favourite spot to walk along while eating ice cream from Ambassadors. With its close knit community, not a day goes by without you seeing a familiar face, and knowing that the entire community is on your side.
Australia-- “Diverse”
Katie O’Connor studied Business and Economics in the University of Technology in Brisbane. Here is her experience:
Australia is a land of contrasts, encompassing urban areas, rainforests, deserts, and of course, it’s famed white beaches. Due to the vast size of the country, the climate can vary greatly from one part to another. While it is snowing in Melbourne, it may be 30 degrees in Cairns. The inhabitants, too, come from far and wide, and the country is a melting pot of different cultures. The influence of the early European settlers is very obvious in street and place names. Yet the proliferation of Chinatowns and sushi restaurants highlights the strong oriental influences also present. Moreover, stark contrasts can be seen in the lifestyles of the country’s inhabitants. While some will engage in high adrenaline activities, such as, rock-climbing or sky-diving, others are happy to enjoy a quiet ‘barbie’ on the beach. What is constant is that Australia has something to offer everyone.
Lille—“Mosaic”
Lily McSweeney studied Sociology in the University of Lille…
Lily in Lille:
At the Braderie, I bought a guitar,
where I ate Moulle Frites
(or, “mussles and chips” – not much a leap for an Irish palette).
I remember evenings in Jazz bars,
And beer that was doubly strong
(beware: too much of a leap, for an Irish ladette),
It would end in a Golden Wave.
The next day we would take the metro
Au marché de Wazzemes
where we ate tagine.
Malta—“Mela”
Phoebe Moore studied Sociology and Theatre studies in the University of Malta in Malta!
A small rocky country lying happily in the middle of the Mediterranean (it is actually made up of three islands, contrary to popular knowledge) operating, as far as I could tell on their gospel, ‘mela’. It is a Maltese colloquy which is as much a mind-set and an attitude, as a word. We soon learnt that “adopting to the ‘mela’ way of life” was essential; something much easier for the Irish perhaps….Being early was not an option, a relaxed attitude essential and well, if the question had something to do with Paceville (the infamous clubbing district) the answer must always be…(yep, that’s the one!). Famed for its clear water, sandy beaches and scuba dives, thanks to a coastline littered with WWII wrecks, Malta existed as our little island paradise for 6 glorious months. Fun fact, if you thought Ireland was super religious, Malta is home to 364 churches—just one more and it completes the Calendar!
Mexico—“Mystical”
Mary Lynd Villanos studies Social work and Child Welfare and had the opportunity as part of her course to work in an orphanage in Bucerias, Puerto Vallarta in Mexico called Manos de Amor. This is what she says:
Mexico is not all what you hear. It's full of surprises, that's for sure! You will hear you have to be careful when you travel to Mexico, however in the little town called Bucerias you can walk around with no worries. The inhabitants are friendly and everyone greets you “good day” whenever you pass them. Not only do they greet you, some of them will even have a conversation with you. And if you're a tourist they know where to send you. "I would recommend you go to...", many will say. With a car, which is very affordable, you can get anywhere in 20 min. Maybe to Puerto Vallarta if you want to be in the big city or enjoy a few drinks by the promenade, or maybe a Friday evening out in Sayulita, for the best tacos "Volcano" and some salsa dancing with live music? Or maybe you want something more exciting? If that's the case, you can always go bunjee jumping, Sky-diving, swim with whales and dolphins, walk through the rainforest and find the most beautiful waterfalls or visit the famous hidden beach. What I'm certain of is that no matter your taste, Mexico has something to offer for everyone.
San Diego--- “sunny”
Heather O’Sullivan studied English and Theatre studies in the University of California in San Diego:
San Diego is home to a seventy mile coastline, but if you don’t have time to hit Encinitas, your best bet for good waves and the smallest crowd is Del Mar beach. As night falls and you’re in need of a spot to boogie try Duck Dive, Mission Beach. San Diego also has some of the best Mexican food in Southern California, with the tastiest of tacos at World Famous, Pacific Beach. And if that’s not good enough, it’s only a 20-minute drive south for the real thing!
