Manchester is an interesting and beautiful city. The mix of older and new buildings lends a colorful and appealing texture to the skyline. The older buildings that are nestled between the newer skyscrapers give the city a rich heritage and a solid foundation for growth. As far as the eye can see there are beautiful things to look at, from the sunsets to the city streets; although they are often covered in things that must be cleaned. Staying in this city has given me a greater respect for all things historical as well as highlighting how a population can keep the old and bring in the new as well. Right next to my classroom is a new construction project. All around the project are historical buildings that must be preserve yet the school fits new structures in, blending the old and new architectures in a pleasing mix. The view from my room highlights the beauty of the city and I often sit at my window and think about what is going on outside. Across the street there is a music university and I enjoy watching students arrive in the mornings while I get ready for school and depart in the evenings, often late at night, carrying their instruments.

How I Arrived in Manchester

My journey to the UK started somewhat inconspicuously with a plane ride to Newark, NJ, the center of the world’s fast-food empire, or at least it seems from the inside of the airport. I was surrounded by loud rushing people while not being one myself, having a three hour wait until my next flight. At least I got to talk to my family and friends during this time, decreasing my dislike for my surroundings since the terminal was hot and sticky in the early June sun. I guess in areas that not hot 24/7 like Florida is, people do not run the air-conditioning all day, everyday until it or the people freeze. After the wait I boarded the plane only to find out my seat’s table fell down at the drop of a hat as well as the chair back would not stay reclined. Of course at this time I was too tired to say anything to the flight crew since my mind had shut off from exhaustion. All I could remember thinking when I awoke to my breakfast served on the table that had fallen down during my rest was, “I sure hope this is not a representation of what is to come.” Luckily for me, what I have found in Manchester has gotten better by the day.

My First Day

My first day in Manchester! After a long day it was perfect to sit down in my new room and gaze out into the big city before me. It dawned on my how much lay ahead of me, the new cities, the experiences, the heat! It was around eighty degrees that first night, never wavering from its hold of me. At least I found the "fan" to cool me off, the little white box that makes a lot of noise and releaves little.