Hanami, literally translated as ‘flower-viewing’ is the yearly Japanese Springtime tradition of celebrating the cherry blossom season. From around the end of March to the beginning of May in mainland Japan, and early February for Okinawa, the country’s millions of trees come into bloom. The blossom forecast (sakura-zensen) is announced every year by the weather bureau, and attentively monitored by those wanting to plan their celebrations under the symbolic flowers. Since 2004 the sakura-zensen has been aided by official blossom monitors; over 10,000 Japanese citizens who are enlisted to painstakingly monitor the state of their local cherry blossom trees throughout the year.

The custom of Hanami dates back to the Nara period (710-794) where people would appreciate the ume blossoms. The practice then morphed into the celebration of sakura (cherry blossoms) as they signified the rice planting season, as well as foretelling the year’s harvest. People believed kami (spirits/holy powers) inhabited the trees and so made offerings, this was followed by the consumption of sake. In the Heian period, Emperor Saga embraced this practice, hosting flower viewing parties with food and sake under the sakura trees in the Imperial Court in Kyoto. This practice spread to the Samurai people and then subsequently the lower classes. Now thousands of people around Japan congregate in parks around the country, holding feasts and parties which last way into the night.

My experience with Hanami occured on a yearly visit to Tokyo at around the age of eight. Taken to the local Asukayama park by my aunt, we sat on blue tarpaulin sheets under the trees with friends, enjoying the homemade onigiri (rice-balls) we had brought and sipping on cold barley tea. The park was overflowing with people of all ages, families, colleagues and friends. I vividly remember observing the people around me, the busy lives of the Japanese momentarily halted by something as banal as nature. Everyone, from salarymen, to tourists, to the elderly. Those who would not ordinarily encounter each other in everyday life, now flocking to the same places to enjoy the very same things. Japan is known for its technology, its work ethic, the fast paced lifestyle of its citizens, and yet the culture that permeates every area of the country’s framework is equally as significant.

To me, Hanami perfectly captures Japanese philosophy, and in particular the concept of wabi-sabi, a form of aesthetics which centres around the acceptance of fallibility and transience. The appreciation of fleeting beauty and the recognition of nature’s impermanent reality is reflected through the sheer number of people who gather to celebrate an ephemeral yet strikingly significant occasion. Gazing at the blush toned petals, people are unified through the country’s rich and vibrant culture. The cultural traditions of Japan, from Hanami, to Obon, to Yama no hi (Mountain Day) allow people to leave their busy lives on pause and focus on something beyond the superficial. These brief moments of reflection are tinged with an impression of serene wistfulness, here brevity is celebrated. 

By Maya Bagshaw

Every culture is interesting and has its own unique aspects, but what makes Chinese culture stand out? Perhaps, the majestic martial arts or the illustrious ancient wonders of China?

Architecture
As you may know, traditional Chinese architecture is eye-catching and is known for its vibrant colourful patterns. There are many Buddhist temples in China which are painted red, gold and blue with hints of green- the colours that Chinese people consider to be ‘lucky’.

A few years back, one of the most striking architectural styles that I had encountered was in Beijing. This was the historic ‘Temple of Heaven’ which consisted of the Hall of Prayer, the Imperial Vault of Heaven and the Circular Mound Altar. All these parts are unique yet share many things in common as they are all circular and are built on levels of marble stone. The circular mound altar differs slightly as there are pillars with carved dragons which appear in the tales and legends of ancient China. For all you philosophers out there, you’ll love this architectural gem as the features of this temple symbolise the connection between heaven and earth, influenced by ancient Chinese philosophy.

Theatre
One of the other things that I appreciate about Chinese culture is the spectacular theatre. Chinese theatrical performances consist of opera, acrobatics and martial arts. Speaking of martial arts, my favourite show was ‘’The Legend of Kung Fu’’ at the Red theatre in Beijing. This show is perfect for anyone who would like to watch an inspirational story with a mixture of graceful ballet and impressive Kung Fu skills.

During the show, I really loved the atmosphere created by the classic fighting style and enchanting music with powerful drumbeats. The plot is about a young boy who wants to become a Kung Fu master but has to overcome his own fears and obstacles that get in his way. This story shows that only we are the ones who can fulfil our dreams and choose the right path.

Cuisine
What comes to your mind when someone mentions Chinese food? Perhaps, sweet and sour chicken or king prawn curry? Well, believe it or not, traditional Chinese food is completely different compared to the food offered at the Chinese take away in the United Kingdom.

As I’m the only British person on my course, I have many Chinese friends from my class who invite me over for lunch regularly, so I always get the chance to try new traditional recipes. One of the most popular dishes amongst Chinese students is the ‘hot pot’ which is a Chinese cooking method and involves laying out a range of raw foods on the table, then cooking the ingredients in the pot whilst sat at the table. The one food that I found rather unique was the lotus flower root which was crunchy and had a sweet-tangy flavour.

Another food that I tried was ‘Mooncake’ which is a traditional dessert and is a round pastry filled with different types of pastes. It also contains an egg yolk in the middle which symbolizes the moon and is associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. My friend offered me the one that contained lotus seed paste and an egg, accompanied by wild rose tea. Although, this cake may sound absolutely bizarre, I found it rather tasty and it was much sweeter than some English desserts.

Back when I was in Beijing, I went to Wangfujing night market which had a lively atmosphere and was very hectic. What surprised me the most was the fact that they were selling spiders, starfish and fried scorpions on a stick. I didn’t eat any of these as they didn’t appeal to me, but I did try the pineapple steamed rice which was delicious!
 
Music
Two weeks ago, when I went back to my friend’s house and she began to listen to some Chinese zen music, some of my memories of China came flowing back.
I started imagining the waterfalls and scenic landscape of Sichuan created by the sound of the ‘Guzheng’- a Chinese zither where the performer plucks the strings, producing a lovely sound of ‘vibrato’. There was also the clarinet-like sound, produced by the ‘Hulusi’- a wind instrument which is made of bamboo pipes. This music is peaceful and if you’re wanting to relax after all those assignments or escape from exam stress, why not listen to some Chinese zen music?

By Tyler Leck, Travel Editor

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A Scandinavian Winter Adventure
 
Iceland
There’s no better place to embrace the beauty of winter than the land of “fire and ice”. Iceland is one of the most unique countries in the world and is full of natural wonders. The population is slightly larger than that of Newcastle and is known for its friendly natives and offers many beautiful places to explore.

Your first stop should definitely be the Blue Lagoon. After a long day of travelling, why not relax and embrace everything that the geothermal spa has to offer? The sensation of having a warm body and a cold head and shoulders is something that you definitely have to experience. Here, they also offer some iconic silica mud face masks to provide you with an authentic Icelandic experience.
 

 
 
Afterwards, why don’t you head down to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge? For all you geography enthusiasts out there, this the national park where the North American and Eurasian Plates are moving away from each other, leaving a huge canyon-like crack down the middle of the island. Here, the water is like nothing you've ever seen before and if you’re up for it, there is an opportunity to scuba dive in a crack between two tectonic plates. Thingvellir, the national park which is home to a large chunk of Iceland’s Mid-Atlantic ridge also boasts some of Iceland’s most scenic landscapes.
 
When you’re in Iceland, you don’t want to miss out on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Northern Lights. You can view this spectacular phenomenon from anywhere in Iceland but travelling further North will increase your chances of seeing the light show of your life!
 
Iceland is not very far as it only takes 2-3 hours from most UK cities. What’s more, this country boasts some of Earth's most impressive landscapes with magnificent lakes, waterfalls, mountains and hot springs. Iceland is definitely a place that should be added to your travel bucket list.
 
 
Denmark
 
If the frosty Icelandic weather doesn’t appeal to you, then perhaps Denmark is your next choice for enjoying some Scandinavian culture.

This year, I visited Copenhagen for the first time and from that moment, I realised that I had truly fell in love with the city and the Danish way of life. Travelling to Denmark is much simpler than anyone could imagine as there are direct flights every day. I was even fortunate enough to bag a £15.99 return fare, clearly leaving me no choice other than to experience Denmark’s capital for myself.
 
I would highly recommend buying the Copenhagen Card which entitles you to free entry to historical highlights and you can enjoy a free ride on the buses, trains and metros around the city. The Church of Our Saviour is a must-see as it offers some of the best views of Copenhagen, with an outdoor staircase leading to the top of the spire, it is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Again, the views are absolutely unforgettable! Don’t forget to take a picture of the magnificent views from the top of the church all the way to Sweden!
Copenhagen is also home to Tivoli Gardens which inspired Walt Disney’s famous theme park, Disneyland. What’s more, Tivoli is a wonderful spot to listen to live music and to grab something tasty to eat!
 
Sweden
Thanks to the Oresund Bridge, it’s now incredibly easy to visit Denmark’s neighbours across the pond. You can have a quick visit to Malmö by catching a Flixbus and you can tick off even more Scandinavian countries in just one trip! Malmö is a charming city and not only is there plenty to see, but there are also lots of students as it home to one of the largest universities in Sweden.

 
 
So, it’s time to start dusting off those shiny Monzo cards and get some cash ahead of your trip. Whichever country you decide to visit, Scandinavia will be out-of-this-world! 

Elizabeth Tomlinson

​What’s typically associated with ‘Germany’? The capital city? Berlin is, without a doubt, a trendy and vibrant place for a city break. Perhaps, the Black Forest, with its endless stretches of ancient trees and picturesque villages. But who’s heard of a city called Bonn? 

This was where I went for a couple of days in late September. As a native German speaker, my view of cultural life in Germany is of course, different from most tourists. But being a tourist in your own country is an absolute breeze, leaving you time to discover a variety of beautiful places, especially in Germany which is known for its rich cultural history. 

Bonn probably isn’t your first choice when it comes to a weekend getaway, but it certainly does have its charm. Just like Durham, Bonn has a well-established university, which recently made it to the top list of best German universities. Here, the wonderful ambience made me feel at home, especially when strolling through the Hofgarten, a park near the university buildings or enjoying the lovely panoramic view of the river at the Alter Zoll, just like all those other students!

Like other modern German cities, Bonn is also characterised by its multiculturalism, which is often overlooked when thinking about Germany. Wandering through the city centre, I spotted Turkish fast food restaurants, found Russian and Polish snacks in the supermarkets and later in the evening, I went to the Irish pub for a night out. I was also able to explore cultural diversity in the Haus der Geschichte (House of History), one of the museums on the Museumsmeile, an impressive strip of five museums. This museum specialises in the history of post-war Germany to present-day Germany, I was certainly impressed by the fascinating exhibitions and the great attention to detail. I wandered through the section about the last days of the Second World War and its aftermath, which I found rather ‘‘chilling’’. Then, I listened to a debate which was recorded in the 1960’s in the Bundestag, before viewing the special exhibition on Brexit and British-German relations – a very controversial topic but I’d highly recommend it!

Bonn is situated in the Rhineland, a densely populated region of Western Germany which is perfect if you want to explore other places worth visiting, such as Cologne. I took the opportunity to visit the historic city of Cologne for a day, which is just a short train journey away. Cologne is famous for two things, such as the centuries-old cathedral which towers over one of the central city squares and the Carnival of Bonn. Sadly, I was unable to attend the carnival as I was there at the wrong moment. Nevertheless, I explored the magnificent cathedral with spires and arches which are built in a Gothic style, coloured by age with its distinctive dark colour and is probably one of the most notable types of German architecture. Before returning home, I also had the chance to explore the city centre of Cologne. Although it was a short trip, it was certainly enough to recommend this city to anyone with an interest in languages and cultures. Bonn is an underrated German destination, if you need ideas for new travel destinations– take a trip to Bonn!
 
Cristina Coellen

By ​Ever since I was young, I had always dreamt of going to Egypt as I was fascinated by ancient history and the world of the pharaohs. I had gotten off the plane and had arrived at Luxor International Airport and was greeted by the representative and got a taxi to the hotel called the Steigenberger Nile Palace. The hotel was situated near the classic River Nile and offered a luxurious ambience with a mixture of modern-day Egypt and ancient Egypt. At that very moment, I felt at ease and was very excited to begin my adventure.
My first few days in Egypt involved getting settled and discovering the attractions of Luxor where I visited the Valley of the Kings. This was where I explored the antiquities of ancient Egypt, including the tombs of the great pharaohs surrounded by ancient hieroglyphs on the white, limestone walls.
I visited the ancient wonders by taxi and can honestly say that the traffic congestion was horrendous, especially in Cairo. The driving was absolutely crazy which I would describe as ‘‘wacky races’’ and other cars and buses would zip along at breakneck speed. Nevertheless, it was an interesting part of the experience and I had arrived at the attractions early every day!
 
I stayed for a few days in Cairo and explored the pyramids of Giza and felt as though I was taken back in time. One of my favourite moments was riding a camel late in the evening as the temperature during the day was scorching hot. During the camel ride, there were opportunities to capture photos of these wonderful moments, accompanied by enchanting views of the pyramids and a glowing sunset. Afterwards, I even witnessed a camel drinking a bottle of coke as a party trick for the locals and tourists!
 

Another one of my treasured moments was visiting the Khan El-Khalili bazaar- a market full of vibrance with colourful lanterns, dazzling jewellery and authentic souvenirs, located in the heart of Cairo. Here, I was greeted by friendly locals and was offered Egyptian mint tea for free! It was sweet but very refreshing!
 
Back at the hotel in Luxor, there was entertainment for all the tourists. One of the most striking performances was the whirling dervish which you would not want to miss! The whirling dervish originated in Konya, which today is known as modern-day Turkey. This has become one of the most popular performances in Egypt and is more colourful compared to the traditional Sufi dervish, found in Turkey. The performer ‘’turns’’ or whirls ceaselessly while manipulating vibrant and kaleidoscopic skirts, reaching that shining pinnacle of perfection. Then, surprisingly, the performer wanted volunteers to take part as a whirling dervish and I was one of the few that were chosen. Obviously being nervous but excited at the same time, I put on the skirt and started spinning around. Of course, I was all over the place, but it was very enjoyable, and I think the audience loved it too. I’d encourage anyone to give it a try!

By Tyler Leck, Travel Editor ​

Barranco in my opinion is a must- visit. It is the location I know best, but my bias is supported by how much people who visit it love it. Compared to other parts of Lima, the atmosphere seems more upbeat, bohemian and far more colourful. Just wandering around this district can inspire minds, from the wholesome and thought-provoking street-art to the jaw-dropping street musicians and street vendors. Barranco Plaza is a circus of street-dancers, ice-cream sellers and those flocking in and out of the beautiful church on the corner. By night, Barranco proves to cater for everyone, being home to the most-stocked gin bar in Lima to it’s very own Barranco Beer Company which is a craft beer lovers haven. Music nights also range from classic, and mildly repetitive reggaetón, only made slightly more bearable by a sea view in one famous club called Antiqua. 

If time allows, other cultural experiences not to miss include heading to a salsa club, where even the non-conditioned salsa dancer is welcomed and believe me, there will be many a salsero happy to teach some gringos. Visiting a peña is also another experience that will make your trip to Lima worth it. These traditional dances don’t begin until around 11pm and they are much more local than you may think, often noting a 90% attendance from the local dancers who all seem to know each other. The pisco sours (not to be missed under any circumstances in Lima) flow and might even give you a bit of confidence to try the shuffle-type dance common at these gatherings. 
 
Speaking of pisco sours, it would be rude not to delve into some of Peru’s best dishes while in Lima. Trying ceviche, raw cured fish is an absolute must and will more often than not be a pleasant surprise. Emoliente is a bit like marmite, you either love it or hate it, or in my case get very accustomed to it even after hating it at first. This warm drink found on the street in Barranco can come in a variety of flavours, but the main base is linseed and aloe vera made into a warming drink (don’t knock it until you try it!). Lima is also pretty famous for it’s sanguches, and if you are on a budget this is even better. Leaving without trying a pan con chicarrón would be almost criminal. Other foods to try would be some anticucho, (it is best to find out afterwards what it is), aji de gallina, causa limeña, anything which contains manjar, and one of my favourite dishes: lomo saltado. 
 
Lima is full of quirks, noise and shocking traffic, but it is also host to historical wonders, bustling night-life and culinary delights. Don’t miss this city on your travels, as if anything it sets a context for the country and appreciation of the vastness and diversity that Peru holds. 
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Valentine’s Day is upon us with its penetrating gaze and engulfing clutches and those of you currently beholden to the throes of romance may be considering an overseas adventure to celebrate your enduring/temporal/opportune affections. As escapism is ‘better than any drug’ (Prison Break) and ‘travelling is like flirting with life’ (Lisa St. Aubin de Teran), there is no surer way to nourish a nascent romance than taking a trip together to a foreign land. Thus, playing cupid, I have compiled a list of my top 5 romantic European city breaks:
 
     5. Amsterdam  
The Venice of the North inspires long strolls along the (c)anal paths, intimate afternoons spent lazily in coffee shops and steamy nights in the Centrum. Full of impressive architecture, history, art and hard-core sex clubs, it caters for all kinds of couples and interpretations of romance. 
 
Romantic Recommendations:
-Contemplate the Old Masters’ creations at the Rijksmuseum.
-Investigate sex and love throughout the ages at Venustempel Sex Museum.
-Embrace Eros and catch a live show at Casa Rosso.
 
     4. ​Athens  
Alcuin said that ‘at Athens, wise men propose, and fools dispose’ and what better location to cement your spot in the 70% Club than the birthplace of western civilisation? With layers of history underneath your humble feet, explore ancient monuments and create new love stories. 
 
Romantic Recommendations:
-Visit the Parthenon; a striking symbol of eternity.
-Drink too much Ouzo at a rooftop bar overlooking the Acropolis whilst gazing lovingly into one another’s eyes.
-Hike up Lycabettus Hill together and enjoy unbeatable views of the sprawling metropolis as you contemplate the insignificance of humanity.
 
    3. Lisbon  
Situated on seven hills overlooking the Atlantic, bursting with terracotta houses and Moorish architecture, Lisbon screams romance in the age of immaculate Instagram feeds. The city is far more carefree than nearby European capitals, with a laid-back Mediterranean spirit and small, winding streets, the muttering retreats, which seem to go nowhere and everywhere. 
 
Romantic Recommendations:
-Go to Sintra- a hopelessly idyllic hilltop setting full of fairy-tale palaces, castles and gardens.
-Delve into your darker side in the shadow of the overpowering gothic architecture at Jerónimos Monastery.
-Saunter the streets of Alfama and sample several of its wine bars.
 
     2. Istanbul  
The crossroad of the East and West sparks inspiration within all who dare to wander its well-trodden streets. For millennia it has exhilarated writers, statesmen, scientists, artists and explorers alike, and its romantic potency continues to impregnate all who enter its gigantic gaze. Romanticist Lamartine went as far as claiming ‘if one had but a single glance to give the world, one should gaze on Istanbul.’
 
Romantic Recommendations:
-Visit the magnificent Blue Mosque- imposing, impressive and of immortal beauty.
-Wander the Grand Bazaar and try not to be fools in love.
-Take a ferry to the Prince’s Islands and cycle round one of the antiquated, unspoiled islands.
 
     1. Rome  
Rome embodies everything my limited/tainted/disillusioned view of romance leads me to believe in. The city is saturated with romantic history, architecture and art. It is sensual, seductive and stimulating. No city has ever awakened such amorous sentiments within myself, and in my enlivened eyes Rome is the true city of romance.
 
Romantic Recommendations:
-In the veritable spirit of romance visit the Keats-Shelley House by the Spanish Steps.
-Declare your undying love for each other at the enduring and epic Colosseum. 
-Visit The Villa Borghese- nothing screeches eternal love quite like looking into the crazed eyes of Carravaggio’s Bacchus.

​ 
I first visited Athens when I was 15, and in the midst of the nation’s financial crisis, the hellenic capital seemed grey, gloomy and not nearly exciting enough to be the home of Socrates or hedonism. However, I visited again this year and my perception completely changed. The city was so vibrant, colourful and young. Filled with creative restaurants, new lively bars and amazing street art, it definitely captured my imagination and heart. Less busy and far cheaper than the classic weekend getaways such as Rome, Barcelona and Paris, I would definitely recommend it as either a romantic weekend away or a fun-fuelled escape.
 
Although Athens conjures up images of Ancient Greek antics, most of the city is very modern and built after the birth of the young Greek nation. Aside from the looming acropolis and occasional homoerotic statue, there are few traces of ancient Greece, and the modern culture is far more prevalent and exciting than its ancestral cousin.
 
Go to Athens not for the history, as there are far superior places in Greece to immerse yourself in the world of the ancients, but for the food, the art and the fun. Live in the present and explore modern galleries, eat the best of Greek cuisine, and pay homage to Dionysus at one of Athens’ many rooftop bars. Stay away from tourists in the lively student area of Kerameiko, where the best bars, kookiest coffee shops and most innovative restaurants are found. Here you can really relax and enjoy the laid-back Athenian lifestyle. 

Where to Stay:
 
-The House, Kerameiko is a boutique hotel aimed at travellers who appreciate a like-minded community. Perfect for young couples, the location is good and the interior is definitely inspired. I particularly loved the tree inspired showers.
 
-Quinta, Neapoli was created by three Athenian students who converted a retro town house into a hostel and guest house. Located in an area known for political protests, street art, lively tavernas and delicious street food. 
 
Where to Eat:
 
-Seychelles, Kerameiko is my favourite restaurant in the Capital. Away from the usual tourist route, the food is as attractive as it is appetising, as the menu changes to reflect seasonal produce, and the atmosphere is hedonistic and sultry.
 
-Tzitzikas & Mermigas, Syntagma is a classic Athenian haunt. Always busy and usually filled with politicians, local artists, international tourists, well-heeled Athenians of all ages and naturally, great food and wine. Located near to the tourist hot-spots, but definitely not a tourist trap. 

Where to Drink:

-Couleur Locale is my favourite bar in Athens. The rooftop has stunning view of the Acropolis, great music, and is usually packed with young and fun locals. Their Paloma cocktails are incredible. 

-GB Roof Garden, Grande Bretagne Hotel, Syntagma Square. A decadent rooftop garden atop of Athens' finest hotel, this rooftop bar is anything from lowkey, but drinking a glass of champagne up here whilst gazing across at the Acropolis is simply a must in Athens. 


Lara Gibson