Take some time to explore
Hello everyone,
As the University term is in full swing now I hope you all have settled in well and are enjoying your courses. As with any form of work, whether it is University/ studies or occupational work, it is important to ensure that you have breaks from work every now and then to achieve a good work lie balance. This can not only enhance your productivity but also your emotional and physical well-being.
The university posted a link to a blog created by Visit Swansea on Facebook which I think gives you a good overview of some of the best places to explore or visit when in Swansea. I have inserted the link below:
For instance if you like the rugby, you can get fairly cheap tickets and can watch Osprey matches in the Liberty Stadium. While this gives a good overview of the things to do in Swansea, I would like to add a couple more suggestions that if you feel like a break can get you out of the ‘study/university bubble’.
The first suggestion I would make (although this is easier if you have access to a car) is to visit Penllergare Valley Woods. If you like woodland walks this place has is serene and calming and there is also a waterfall. So if you fancy getting out of the city centre Penllergare is only a 15 minute drive away and I think is a hidden gem in Swansea. There is also a quaint little tea shop with lovely looking cakes to reward yourself with. (This is also rated number 11 on trip advisor).
The next few suggestions are located outside of Swansea but sometimes it is good to venture out of the city when you can. Another visit I made recently was to the Designer Outlet Village in Bridgend (again if you have a car this is easy to get to otherwise there is a bus link that goes there as well). If you are feeling like having a whole day off there is plenty to do there; obviously you can do a little retail therapy in quite a lot of big brand shops, there is a big Odeon cinema and many restaurants. So if you fancy a change from the Swansea, Mumbles and Cardiff shopping scene, maybe you should consider visiting the Designer Outlet Village in Bridgend.
Another suggestion I would make that may take some forward planning is the National Botanical Garden of Wales in Carmarthen. This is a great little spot to visit, and the staff put on events all year and there are some lovely meadow and country walks that would can complete that offer lovely picturesque scenery and again if you venture into the woods you may find a waterfall.
Additionally, I haven’t used it personally but I have heard good reviews about the Swansea University Travel Shop. As you may be aware or you might have seen the posters around campus they organise trips around the UK and even abroad. So if you are interested in visiting some historic and picturesque cities then maybe click on the link below that takes you to the travel shop’s web page:
http://www.swansea-union.co.uk/shops/travelshop/
LAst year I had a friend that visited Bath, Bristol, Stonehenge and Paris through the university and found the trips to be really well organised and good value for money. So if you are feeling like you need a break (whether this is just for a few hours or for a weekend trip) maybe consider some of these options.
Thank you for reading.
