HEY GUYS FROM ASECNA: some advice about coming to BRISTOL, by Helinirina

Do you realise that you are going to spend four weeks in one of the biggest cities in England, BRISTOL?
It may seem a long time at the beginning, but in fact it is not enough to discover the numerous and wonderful sides of Bristol. Shops, museums, a zoo, there are a lot of places to visit…

Weather
I know we all come from a country which is hotter, so in Bristol you will surely feel cold. So wear warm clothes to be in good health, and never forget your umbrella because it may rain at anytime!!

Shopping
You may not be a fashion victim but you will soon discover BROADMEAD, the shopping center which is not far from the school and where you can find anything you want. If you are interested in Computer Science, in Music, in Sport, in shoes or in clothes, you are going to find something you like. Whatever you want for your wife or husband, family or friend, you will get something special there. Broadmead is rich in its numerous shops.
Also if you have an opportunity to go to The MALL in Cribbs Causeway, it is a real cavern of treasures! You should go just to see how huge the shopping center is! It is incredible with a lot of shops and of course a huge car park. You may need a new suitcase!! However, you will find there are lots of different places to go shopping in Bristol.

Places to visit in and around Bristol
Bristol is not only famous for its shopping centres, it has also many interesting museums such as the Red Lodge, which is free. Also along Park Row, not far from our school, you will see Bristol’s City Museum and Art Gallery. During our stay, there was an exhibition about the history of Benin, so it was interesting to find out how our history is told and shown abroad. There is also the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum at Temple Meads, and don’t forget the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the symbol of Bristol. Also you should visit the SS Great Britain, built by the engineer, Isambard Kingdom BRUNEL who came to Bristol in the 19th century. The zoo is also a good place for a day out. These are only some few ideas about Bristol’s culture but you can visit other Museums on the outskirts of the town.

The Social Programme
Before ending, I will suggest you take part in the social programme because you will discover more about British culture and it is a real opportunity to visit different places: Cardiff with its wonderful sports stadium and its beautiful castle, the great window of the Abbey and the Roman baths in Bath. The trip to London is the most exciting and impressive because you see Buckingham Palace, the famous Big Ben, the London Eye…

Hey guys! Three weekends are not sufficient to know enough about Bristol. By yourself you will discover lots of pubs and cafes when going out with other students.
Just few suggestions but I hope you find them quite useful.
So keep warm, enjoy your stay in Bristol and don’t forget to share your experience!