Travelling Starfish

Inside one of the gated colleges

As you probably can tell, I love the UK and really love the beautiful town of Oxford.

My good friend from Canada moved there in 2004 and I’ve been fortunate enough to visit her a number of times in this lovely town.  The town has a lot of things going for it – good food, a multi-cultural population and a lot to do.  However, no one can argue what it is most famous for – its world recognized university.

Oxford is one of the world’s most recognized universities – up there with names like Harvard and Yale, it sets itself a part by having a long standing history for famous philosophers and theorists.

About a month ago, I had the pleasure of being in Oxford and meeting up with a friend who is actually doing his Masters there.  On the surface, Oxford appears to be like most British towns.  An old town mixed with modern things – shops, pubs and restaurants.  When you start to dig a bit deeper and have a chance to go into some of the areas that are only for Oxford students, you realise that it’s international recognition is well earned.

My friend took me into some of the grounds around the colleges.  A lot of the colleges in Oxford don’t even look like anything special from the outside – it’s not until you go in, until you realise how amazing the grounds are and how detailed the architecture is too.

To back up a bit, let me explain about the colleges I’m talking about.  At first, I didn’t realise that Oxford University is made up of 38 colleges and 6 Permanent Private Halls.  These are all integral parts of the collegiate university and also independent, self-governing academic communities.  Someone told me that when you graduate, you technically get a diploma from your college NOT Oxford.  I am sure that it says Oxford on the piece of paper but it is apparently the college that awards the qualification.  Each college has varying levels of distinction and history – they also have their own traditions when it comes to admissions and graduation ceremonies.

The grounds at Magdalen College

When I was with my friend, he took me into a few of the most well-known colleges.  Out of all the ones we visited, Magdalen (pronounced “Maudlen”) had to be the most beautiful. Magdalen Hall was originally founded in 1458 and the college has some of the most beautiful buildings and grounds in Oxford.  I found out that every year Magdalen admits around 118 undergraduate students.  These students come from around the world and have demonstrated academic talent and commitment to their field of study.

While we walked around on a Sunday afternoon, I noticed the relaxed atmosphere and calm surroundings.  My friend said that during the week it feels just as calm but has a feeling of ambition and buzz coursing through the air. All of that academic energy I guess (lol)!

The college you choose is the focus of your academic life.  In the college, you attend weekly meetings, or tutorials, for the duration of the study period.  This is also where students typically live in their first year of undergraduate study and experience the Oxford Univeristy social life.  Each college provides entertainment, sports, music, drama facilities and events. Makes me want to go, to be honest:).

Oh the university days!  I loved my days at Wilfrid Laurier University but I can’t imagine how incredible it would be to study at a school like Oxford.  It must make you feel like you are surrounded by such history and academic inspiration!

Me in Jersey, 2006

As you probably can tell, I love to reflect on the past.  I emphasize the world reflect vs dwell.  There is a subtle difference here but a VERY important one.

So many people in our world today believe that we shouldn’t look to the past and only focus on the present or the future.  Google this and you will see that there are loads of self-help books and “gurus” talking about this.  However, I am a big believer that the past really teaches you a lot about the present and future.  Also, I’ve had an incredible past so I enjoy reminiscing on those moments.

I think everyone can look to their past and see key decisions they made that really set their lives on a new path – whether positive or negative.

In 2006, I took one of those paths and today, Feb 12th, is the 5-year anniversary of it.  Five years ago today, I entered the UK and grew a new life on the “other side of the pond”.  Before moving here that February, I had visited a couple of times and had travelled a lot around North America and other parts of the world.

Me in Bath, 2009

I look at this specific move as a defining moment (or series of moments) as it was the first time I actually dug my heels outside of my home country of Canada.  It also led to an entire domino effect of events – personally and professionally – that set my life on a particular course.  When I look at where my life has gone since then, I honestly don’t think I’d be the person I am today.

Now, 5 years later, I’m actually in the UK – not in Jersey where I started but in the mainland in Winchester, England.

So looking back on my 5 years now, what really stands out?

Well, it’s got to be 3 things (I told you everything runs in threes with me!) – Fun, History & Friends -

Fun - when I look back on my life in the UK, I think about all of the good times filled with laughter.  I’ve always had a large circle of friends (wherever I’ve lived) and always enjoyed myself.  However, I must say that some of the times I had in the UK – going out for a few (or more) drinks, dancing up a storm or seeing an amazing concert in London – have been the best times that I can remember.  The “fun” element sticks out in my mind when I reflect back on the UK.  I don’t know what it is about the UK – if it’s the drinking culture, the community vibe in the pubs or the European influence – it just is a good laugh.

History – growing up in a place like Canada, I think you really appreciate history.  Canada has some interesting sights of its own but, since it is a new country, it can’t help that it doesn’t have the depth and breadth of the history a place like the UK does.

Jersey, a small island of under 100,000 people, has so much history and everywhere you look there is something historic staring you in the face.  When I first moved there I was in awe of the WWII barracks that were scattered around the islands’ boardwalk or the castles that were all around.  As the years of living there went on, I became a bit numb to this but I still think how amazing and incredible it is to live amongst this history.  When I visit the mainland, all of the historical sights amaze me.  London is an obvious one but places like Bath, with all of the roman baths, are incredible reminders of what went on before the modern times we live in today.  Being surrounded by this really brings you back to reality and reminds you how the world worked before computers and travel blogs:).

My friend Becky & I, Margam Castle in Wales

Friends – most important to these 5 years is the friends and loved ones I’ve met along the way.  Although the past 5 years have been positive ones for me, I’m not going to lie, they’ve also been the hardest ones.

Life has taken some incredibly interesting and challenging turns for me and it showed me who my friends were.  I am so fortunate to have true friends scattered around the world (especially Canada) but it’s also nice to know that some of those true friendships reside in the UK.

When I first arrived in Jersey, I didn’t have a great network of friends – it was something I struggled with.  However, with all the ups and downs, came some very positive relationships.  I know that I’ve made friends for life and know deep in my heart that wherever life takes me or them, they will be in my life.

So, that’s me.

Now, I’m sure everyone wants to ask me one question -“If I could do it all over again, would I?”

The answer to that is ABSOLUTELY.  I don’t live my life in regrets and I believe all that happens is for a reason.  The UK, although it can be rough around the edges sometimes, has made quite the impression on me and I’m happy to say that it’s earned a place in my heart.

So now let’s see where the next 5 years take me – bring it on!

Bye for now, Miriam

Well, I’m back in the UK and up to Oxford to visit some of my good friends.  I’ve spent the day in town shopping and am a bit pooped but decide to get myself in the spirit as we are heading out for a night on the town.

Tonight my friends and I are planning on grabbing a bite to eat and having a few drinks – nothing too crazy but you never know where the night may take you.

When I got in the night before, there was a ton of people out and about. It looked like the clubs were heaving and the drinks were flowing. I havent had so much to drink lately in Israel so I don’t think it will take much to get me a bit tipsy – not sure if that’s a good or bad thing.

Oxford Town Centre - on the way to Thai

We decide to give Thai food a try – it’s one of my favourite styles of food so I’m pleased. We first try to get into Chiang Mai Kitchen but it’s completely full. We see another Thai place right beside it, At Thai, and try our luck there. The main floor is equally busy but they say that there is room upstairs. When we walk up we realize that we are the only ones on the second floor. The waiter tells us that they’re expecting a  party in 20 minutes or so…we think “no problem”.

We weed through the menu and settle on a nice bottle of Thai white wine (yes there is such a thing), a starter mixed platter and Pad Thai and green curry to share. We get our starter and are pleasantly surprised – it’s delicious!  So is the wine.  I never knew that Thailand made wine but apparently they do and I’m glad I found out about it.

About 30 minutes into the meal our company (the party) arrives. We know immediately we are in for an interesting time. We get the creme de la creme of Oxford (I’m being sarcastic by the way) – and to make matters worse, we’re pretty sure these guys go to Oxford University.  Fast forward a 1/2 hour and we’re ready to dash.  To put it bluntly, these guys are crude, wine bottle guzzling frat boys. They even make some slightly cheeky references directly at us and we all think that’s the sign to get out of there.  The food was amazing but the company (excluding my friends) not so much.

After that little bit of entertainment, we head to a local bar for a drink.  There are so many traditional bars in Oxford and that’s part of its appeal for me. I’ve been here at different times of the year, and the pubs always seem to be full.  One drink in and they start collecting our glasses – I realize it’s just past 11:00pm.

Take note that many bars in England are only licensed until 11:00pm so don’t leave going out until too late.  I actually like the early start but it’s definitely not for everyone.

Instead of finding another spot to continue drinking, we decide to call it a night…lots of travel for me and the food made us all a bit sleepy.  On our way back, we wander past the town area and the lovely town of Oxford.  It’s all quite lively – taking in the atmosphere is half the fun.

Out of all my trips to the UK, I’ve worked out that I’ve done the most trips into Oxford.

The main reason for my travels to this university town is because a good friend of mine moved here in 2005 – a whopping 5 years ago (can’t believe it).  Oxford is a really fun town.  There is a lot to do and a lot to see.  It’s a town with a diverse vibe to it likely due to all the internationalism from the university.

I’ve eaten out a lot in Oxford and I can honestly say that whether it’s a pub meal or a fancy schmancy restaurant, I’ve never been let down.  Here are my top 3 eats for your next visit to Oxford!

Moya – Go East!

On my first visit to Oxford, I went for my friend’s wedding.  I made the huge mistake of leaving my arrival until very late in the game, only coming in for the wedding a day before the nuptials (I honestly don’t know what I was thinking!).  I was completely jet-lagged and was the Maid of Honour so was attending all the bridal party fun.  After the rehearsal, we went out for the traditional rehearsal dinner.  My friend has a Slovak heritage so she picked a Slovak restaurant.  Honestly if it wasn’t for her, I would have never found the gem of Moya.

Tina & I at Moya, Oxford

Since my dad is Hungarian, I sometimes enjoy indulging in food from Eastern Europe.  I don’t like heavy food but I do like a good dumpling now and again.  Here at Moya they mix the old and the new.  All of the dishes are traditional Slovakian but with a modern edge.  That is why I like it!  I highly recommend their Turkey Escalopes and Halusky (dumplings) to start. The dumplings are delicious.  To finish it off, go with the apple cake – you won’t be disappointed.

The prices are fairly reasonable but make sure to book especially if you are heading in on a weekend.  It does get pretty busy.

Big Bang Jericho – In the mood for a little comfort food?

On one of my visits to Oxford last year, my friends took me to a really cool place.  Big Bang is a restaurant that only serves Bangers & Mash.  The traditional British meal is knocked on its head by creating all different types of combinations – different sausages and different mashed potatoes – perfect for a rainy day outside (which are pretty common in good ole England).  It also uses local ingredients which is lovely & they have jazz music every Tuesday.  My favourite dish is the wild mushroom & garlic sausages with grain mustard mash.  Oh – it is so lovely!

Many British restaurants nowadays take old favourites and posh them up a notch.  That is definitely what Big Bang Jericho is all about.  The meal I had there left a lasting memory in my mind as a yummy experience that left me full and satisfied.  Located in the trendy area of Jericho in Oxford, it’s a great spot to grab some yummy food here and then head over to one of the many bars or pubs in the area.  That’s what we did and we had no regrets.

Prices are reasonable too and I’ll be honest it is worth the money.

The Jam Factory – Take in some art while you eat

Located minutes away from the Oxford train station (and my friends house) is a fantastic choice for food, The Jam Factory. The Jam Factory is a nicely renovated and modern restaurant.  I’ve had both lunch and dinner there and everything is divine.  Make sure you check out the hand cut chips (I’m drooling as we speak).

The Jam Factory

For freelancers out there like me, it’s a great place to get some work done as they offer free wifi for customers and it has a great ambience.  There is also a gallery in the bar / lounge area so it is a perfect place to get some inspiration.  The Jam Factory is a great example of an all-around modern restaurant in England today.  Prices are reasonable and the food & service are fantastic.

As you probably can tell from my blogs so far, I love Britain.  British food gets such a bad rap but to be honest I’m not sure why.  Britain is a lot more than greasy fish & chips and meat pies.  It’s amazing how far pubs have come in the last few years in offering high-quality food at decent prices.  Oxford is a great example of a city that really knows what it means to offer top-notch cuisine.

Next time you’re in Oxford, check out one of my suggestions above and let me know how you get on.

Bye for now, Miriam

On this visit to the UK, I’m staying with a good Canadian friend in Oxford. Oxford was the first place i ever visited in the UK and is still one of my favourites.  It’s set about an hour north from London and is a must see for anyone visiting the UK.

My good friend Tina has lived here since 2004 and when I lived in jersey I came to visit a lot. Most think of Oxford as a university town. Obviously the university plays a central role in life in Oxford but there is a lot more to this town than just learning.

Throughout the years, I’ve seen different parts of Oxford. My friend lives very central to town and also close to the rail station. When she got married in Oxford (I was the maid of honour by the way), they took photos on the university grounds which are very picturesque.

In total, the university has 38 colleges. Tina actually told me that when you graduate from Oxford, you actually get a diploma stating the colleges name not Oxford’s. An interesting tidbit of information – at least I thought so.

Oxford Castle

One of the must see sites in Oxford is the Natural History Museum. I’m told that there are some incredible artifacts here and special exhibits throughout the year.

Another place I recommend visiting is Oxford Castle – see above photo.  It has beautiful grounds and is also conveniently located right near the town centre.  There is a bit of a haunted feel to this site and its definitely worth the admission fee.

The final place I’ll mention in Oxford that I would visit any day of the week, is Cornmarket Street. Essentially a pedestrianized street, all the high street shops are here but it also hosts lovely live music and entertainment. Its one of the nicest areas I’ve ever seen – quaint but lively all at the same time.  Every time I’ve come to Oxford, I’ve taken the time to go for a stroll in this part of the city.

Out of all the history and academia I must say what I love the most about Oxford is the parks, rivers and natural beauty. The grounds around the town are gorgeous and you are spoiled for choice in finding a place for a long walk or run. Some of my favourite UK memories are of long walks with my friend – you can literally get lost in the landscape.

There is so much to say about Oxford. I’ve barely scratched the surface. Keep following my posts for more.

Bye for now,

Miriam