What Does Winter Break Look Like for a GBSH Student?

As a postgraduate student at UCL GBSH, winter break consists of various activities; preparation for coursework, holiday cheer, and taking in London’s winter glory. This break from the course offers an ideal chance to unwind, finish off assignments, and take in the splendour of winter. Here’s an in-depth glimpse into how I planned my winter holidays, focusing on festive activities, academic pursuits, and sightseeing adventures.

Embracing the Magic of London’s Winter Charms

There’s no denying that London truly comes alive during the holiday season, with every corner adorned in sparkling lights and festive decorations. Winter in the city is a perfect blend of enchantment, exploration, and festive cheer. 

I started my festive journey with a stroll along Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street. The twinkling lights and dazzling displays were breathtaking, but Carnaby Street stood out with its vibrant and artistic theme. Moving on, I headed to Trafalgar Square, where the iconic Christmas tree dazzled with lights, casting a warm glow across the frosty air. Carol singers filled the square with warmth and holiday spirit, making the moment unforgettable. Later, I explored Leicester Square Market, a cosy little escape with charming wooden stalls glowing under festive lights. The market was brimming with holiday treats, handmade crafts, and delicious food. The air smelled of roasted marshmallows and hot chocolate, surrounded by the season’s joy. It felt like one of those rare magical moments that only the holidays can bring.  

Beyond the festive lights and markets, I ventured into some of London’s most charming spots. One of my favourite experiences was exploring Notting Hill. The streets, lined with colourful houses and festive decorations, were picture-perfect against the winter backdrop. Strolling through Portobello Road Market, I admired the unique artisanal gifts and soaked in the holiday vibes, stopping at cosy cafes to enjoy the season. 

Another standout moment was visiting the Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience exhibit. The stunning projections and immersive soundscape brought Van Gogh’s masterpieces to life in ways I never imagined. Surrounded by swirling colours and vivid scenes, I felt as though I had stepped into his world. It was a moving and inspiring experience, offering a fresh perspective on his iconic work.  

This winter break has been a beautiful balance of exploring London’s festive charm and discovering its cultural treasures. Each moment added a unique sparkle to the season, making it one to remember. 

Magic of Winter Wonderland

No winter in London is complete without a visit to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. It’s the ultimate festive escape, with something for everyone. I kicked things off with games at the nearby stalls and then moved on to the thrill of rollercoasters. Each ride and game brought a new rush of excitement, making it a day to remember.

Winter Wonderland was filled with fun carnival-style games, and I couldn’t resist trying them. I had an absolute blast and even won a few prizes, which brought out my inner child all over again.

The food stalls were impossible to ignore. I treated myself to warm churros, crispy fries, and soft pretzels. But the real highlight was a rich, creamy hot chocolate piled high with fluffy marshmallows. It was the perfect drink to warm me up in the chilly winter air.

As evening approached, I hopped on the giant Ferris wheel. The view from the top was nothing short of spectacular. The sun was setting, casting a golden glow over the park. Below, the glow from the rides and stalls painted a picture of pure enchantment. It was a moment that felt like pure magic, one I’ll always cherish.

Balancing Fun with Academics:

Although this winter break is meant to relax and enjoy, it’s also given me time to focus on my assignments. With deadlines in January, I’ve been dedicating a few hours each day to researching, drafting, and refining my essays. To stay on track, I’ve also visited the UCL East Library a few times, taking advantage of its inspiring atmosphere and helpful resources for my research.

Occasionally, I headed to cosy local cafes around London. The warm ambience and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee always keep me motivated. These cafe sessions have been the perfect mix of productivity and relaxation, offering a refreshing break from my usual study routine. To make the most of my break, I’ve also set aside time to revisit my lectures and notes from the first term. This revision has helped me go over key concepts, reinforce my learning, and go through my pre-requisites for the next term. 

Along with my studies, I’ve made sure to take time for fun activities to recharge and keep the holiday spirit alive. I’ve been careful to balance fun with health, getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active. I’ve enjoyed winter walks in the park and occasionally joined a gym class to stay energised and focused. 

This winter break has been the perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and preparation. The festive activities brought so much joy and energy, while the academic tasks kept me focused. Exploring London’s winter attractions felt like a dream, letting me experience the city in its most magical season.

As I get ready for the next term, I feel recharged and ready for new challenges. This break has been unforgettable, filled with learning, laughter, and the magic of London.
 

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