Author: James Reynolds

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes of wars that scorched the Earth, we as a people have reinvented ourselves into the global society we know today. Yet, despite our past resilience, through a series of very unfortunate events, we find our resolve tested on a scale unprecedented in modern history. The recent measures taken by national governments limit our freedoms but necessary to prevent further suffering — and while we, in Europe, begin to exit this lockdown period, we are far from out of the woods. So, the question then arises: in a time when ordinarily skies would be littered with aircraft and the ocean filled with ships, will travel ever return to normality? Hardly surprisingly, we simply won’t know for a while. Thusly, until a vaccine exists, we will have to adapt our lives and...

An open letter from the Student Ambassador Dear Students, I wish I could be contacting you in better times. During the last month, I have been in contact with a wide range of departments from the University of London group and countless university officials. I have personally met with many of you and answered more questions still regarding your concerns about COVID-19. A key message that I would like to relay to you on behalf of the Foreign Office and the Travel Aware Campaign, is to be kind and considerate. It’s in moments like these that we must be thoughtful of our neighbours and take seriously the advice of the government to get through this together. This pandemic will be over at some point and whilst it may not be today, next week or even next month, it will indeed en...

It was an overcast November morning with intermittent rays of sunshine flooding the runway below as I looked on from my window seat departing from London Heathrow. I felt a sense of anticipation and excitement starting an adventure in a Slavic country which, at the time, I knew very little about. My trip was timed to coincide with the beginning of Christmas festivities in Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, and I can gladly report that I was far from disappointed! For many Western Europeans, the Balkans are regrettably overlooked when thinking of immediate travel destinations for the Christmas holidays. I’d like to say, however, that this sad truth should be put to bed. There are fantastic skiing sites and festive markets all over the country which are highlighted in the capital with pretty sta...

If like me, you immerse yourself in the news, it seems as though “Brussels” is mentioned daily. Whilst Brexit argument may have claimed most of the focus surrounding the use of the city’s name, Brussels is far more than the home of the EU. It’s a proudly vibrant and diverse city with many unusual locations worth exploring, harbouring an impressive mix of cultures. It needn’t be said, but I’ll say it anyway: Brussels is at the heart of Europe. Other than being a fantastic springboard to reach other larger European capitals, it is a quaint city with much heritage, custom and culture. Photo by Claudiu Hegedus on Unsplash Whether you’re interested in exploring the famous Belgian revolution, celebrating Sinterklass’s arrival, witnessing the iconic Manneken Pis or if you simply feel li...