Spring Break Across the Pond

It's that time of the year to escape to tropical, relaxing, destinations across the world. From Mexico to the Bahamas, thousands of college students are binge drinking their way to happiness and counting down the last half of the school year.

Lucky for me, I was able to spend my Spring Break in England. Why was I in England? I knew you would ask — let's call it a business vacation. I worked in a psychiatry ward and was able to tour England and enjoy the nightlife. This amazing opportunity came through the PA program, which offered this educational trip along with giving us some time to explore and see a new way of life. Let's do a quick synopsis...

London

We had the opportunity to see London twice — both amazing, yet different experiences. First we saw London by a guided bus/walking tour hitting all major landmarks: Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, London Eye, and Buckingham Palace. Truly an amazing time learning about all the history in London and the traditions they have. Fun fact: the Queen of England doesn't actually live in Buckingham Palace! Also, Big Ben isn't technically named Big Ben, it's called Elizabeth Tower.

Stafford

This is the town about 2 hours north of London, where the Psychiatric ward was that we worked at. I had the chance to see psychiatric patients in environments ranging from the ICU to in their home. Outside of that, the town of Stafford was a great place to stay with tons of shopping, great food, and fun people.

Chester

On our last day in England, we visited the medieval town of Chester about an hour north of Stafford. This town is well over 2000 years old and was occupied by Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Normans, and English all in the span of it's existence. We walked the walls of the town that were continually added onto by each army that conquered the town. We also had afternoon tea and went to a historical medieval castle on the hills outside downtown Chester.

 In all, England was an amazing experience and if you're looking to travel internationally, it's a place you should add to your bucket list.