By anishag22
This week marks the start of my month-long spring break adventure, with my trip currently underway in Ireland. My mom and I began our trip in Dublin, and we are now on the west coast of the country in Galway. While I absolutely loved Dublin, Galway has a certain small-city charm that makes it feel undeniably Irish. Upon thinking more about why Galway captured my heart, I realized that it's due to its similarities with Bristol.
Galway is basically the Bristol of Ireland: it's smaller than Dublin but thrives off its large student population. Both Bristol and Galway are lively cities that offer a more authentic experience of the country as opposed to the two major urban draws: London and Dublin. I'm realizing it's not just Bristol that I adore, but perhaps all European college towns.
A city dominated by young adults makes for an interesting city indeed. There's always something going on every night of the week and there's usually an urban city center as well as quieter areas full of natural beauty. Simply put, college towns have it all.
While there's something to be said for big cities and their endless variety, I can't help but feel that they lack the "sense of place" that comes with small city college towns. Studying abroad is about expanding your horizons and trying new things, and for me, Bristol has been a completely different type of city than any other I have lived in. Going to a new country is great, but changing it up even more is better.
Until next time -
Xx, Anisha