England: Brooke Hendry (Places: Routine and Favorite)

One way that I’ve tried to immerse myself in British culture is by living like a local. To me this means trying to carve out a community and daily routine in Bristol.

One of the things I’ve loved most about Bristol is getting to explore local places. When it comes to food, I’ve been able to explore many of the coffee shops on campus between classes and on the weekend. I’ve tried some of the UK’s larger chains like Café Nero and Costa Coffee, as well as places local to Bristol like Foliage Café, Gail’s, and Coppa Club. All the local cafes I’ve tried so far are in the Clifton neighborhood which is right near my dorm (Manor Hall). It has great local shops, restaurants, and markets. Bristol also has many great charity shops (thrift stores) that I’ve been able to explore and find Bristol Bears merchandise, books, and old postcards.

While living in my dorm, I’ve also been able to get to know my roommate and flat mates, none of which are from the US. It’s very cool getting to learn their perspectives and food cultures through daily interactions in the kitchen.

Another place that I frequent is Yoganand. Yoganand is a local yoga studio about 5 minutes from my student accommodation. It has yoga, Pilates, barre, and stretch classes taught by amazing instructors. Yoga is something that I commonly did in Madison, and it was great to be able to find a studio that I connect with in Bristol to continue that habit and make myself feel more at home. Through the studio I’ve been able to have daily interactions with English people and get active.

I’ve also made the most of traveling opportunities available to me through organizations like Erasmus, Bristol Study Abroad, Bristol Student Union, and Bristol Residential Life. So far I’ve been able to see Cardiff, Oxford, the Cotswold’s, and Stonehenge, all of which are located near Bristol. These small weekend trips give me great insight into the local surroundings, English culture, and landscape.

Brooke Hendry

Hometown: Superior, Wisconsin

Major: Industrial Engineering

Program: University of Bristol Exchange

I chose my program because I wanted to be part of a smaller community where I got the chance to meet and connect with as many people as possible. I’m most looking forward to learning the history of Bristol and how it has changed throughout England’s long history.