Reading Week Holiday

Hello everybody!

We are already entering February, the month of love for some. Is it for you too? :D

Anyway, my exams are finished a week ago and tomorrow will mark the start of my second and new semester here, in Surrey.

The past week, named the "Reading Week", has been filled with many trips and activities. I have no idea why they named it Reading Week, cause I certainly did not do any reading. (",)

Item One

Me and my friend promoting the program.

At the start of the week, me and my friend went to an program organised by the UKEC i.e. United Kingdom and Eire Council for Malaysian Student called Projek Amanat Negara (PAN) titled Restoring the Confident, Paving the Way. There were so many guest speakers, each with their own reputation called upon to discuss certain topics with us, students.

Recognise him? :D

This is my first time attending such an event, and I will have to complement them for executing such a wonderful job with it. The content of the program was really fulfilling and I will certainly be delighted to join their other programmes in the future as well. You should too my fellow Malaysians. :D

Made a new friend too!

If you want to get more info about their upcoming or past events, feel free to visit their website at http://www.ukeconline.com

Item Two

From London, I meet up with my senior and we both made our way to Exeter. Originally, we wanted to visit England's famous attraction in Cornwall area, the Land's End. However, due to some unforeseen circumstances, we had to shorten our trip and stopped in Exeter.

It was definitely fun though. We stayed over at our friend's house and went touring around the City of Exeter. I had by far, the most delicious Cream Tea ever whilst my stay there. I definitely am listing "learning how to bake scones" on my "to do" list.

Magnificent Cream Tea

We also went for a Red Coat tour in the city centre. It is totally free of charge! There are various types of Red Coat tour, each covering its own agenda. Due to time constraint, we only managed to follow the "Forgotten City" tour.

Hey, I am proud to say that, I know more about Exeter's history than those studying there. haha. If you by any chance got yourself in Exeter, do do do do follow the Red Coat tour. It is really fun, it is free, it is really interactive and I am sure you will have such a wonderful time with it. :)

Item Three

While in Exeter, we made a short morning trip to Dawlish Warren. Only 10 minutes away by train from Exeter St. Davis station. The view along the way is breath taking. The train literally run through the coast line making you feel as if you are floating on the sea. ;)

Yup, I got my pants and shoes wet.

However, since we went there during the Winter season, there were not many shops open. So, we just went strolling around by the beaches and take lots of photos. :D There were also many dog owners walking their dogs. ;)

Colourful Beach Houses

I do suggest you to visit Dawlish Warren whenever you are in Exeter. It will just take your time maximum up to 4 hours. Unless, you go there during the summer, which I highly recommend, then you would probably want to spend the whole day at the place.

Item Four

After the short trip, we had a small gathering back in Surrey. The sisters in Surrey all meet up at one of the houses and cooked together. :) We had such a great time and GOOD FOOD as well.

I baked lasagna and made Tiramisu. Achievement unlock! haha. We even have Soto, Apple Pie, Pumpkin Pie, Begedil, and Fruit Cocktail!

Look interesting? Taste even better!

After the "small" late lunch, some of use continued our gathering to watch The Hobbit at ODEON. I kinda like the movie despite all the bad reviews given for it. I am anticipating for its continuation indeed. Next movie in my list? Hansel and Gretel!

Item Five

For the final weekend before the start of the new semester, me and some of my flatmates, went to Birmingham! The city was big, well, at least bigger than Guildford. haha. We had trouble finding our ways a bit, but we managed to do well.

The famous Victoria Square

Some of the statues in the Art Museum (FOC)

I did not cover the entire city yet, but will try to cover it the next time I went there okay? I departed from my flatmates to visit some of KDU friends in University of Birmingham. Had a tour in the university and went for dinner at a local shop.

Malaysian style dinner

Afterwards, I made my way to the next city, Coventry and stayed overnight in my friend's house. Yeap, I am aware that I have been travelling a lot. ;P

Before bed, we went for a hangout session nearby, the food was really nice. The next morning, they took me for brief tour of Coventry city, and ate Rendang for lunch! I certainly feels a little bit like home. :) Can't wait to go back this summer!

The Cathedral

Statue of Lady Godiva

Coventry Market

Beef Rendang & Chicken Curry

Item Six (final)

My brother in is town! haha. He came all the way from London to visit Surrey, Guildford to be exact. I was so excited to show him our weekend market, but unfortunately it was close. Better luck next time huh?

Egg Benedict without Bacon but Spinach.

We had breakfast in a local shop. It was really delicious. I had something that looks like an English style breakfast. Honestly, I always cooked my meal, so, I don't really eat in a proper restaurant but that will all have to change soon!

Me, looking excited.

We went sightseeing in the town (what is there to see?) and I am so amazed of how many places I, myself have not been to whilst my stay here. Next time he is town, I'll bring him to Woking/Reading.

Managed to cook lunch for him as well

Conclusion

There were so many things to do and so many places to visit, that a week will do me injustice. So, my mission for the year, try to visit as many places and do as many things I can just for the sake enjoying my life here. Care to join me next time?

See you again soon, friends!