English study destinations: Exeter
Friday, 6th November 2009
Choosing where to do an English course can be difficult when so many different places are on offer. Despite being a city that is not well known internationally, Exeter has plenty to attract foreign visitors and students…
Of course, if you are looking to study in a big city like London or Manchester, Exeter is probably not the right choice for you, but there are plenty of people who prefer learning in smaller, slower-paced cities who would be perfectly suited to life in Exeter.
Here are some good reasons why Exeter is a great medium-sized city to choose:
1. Location
Exeter is situated in the southwest of England, in the county of Devon - undoubtedly one of England’s prettiest and most affluent counties. It is easily reached by train from London, and actually has its own airport, where you can fly to and from a variety of European destinations.
From Exeter you can easily reach some of the UK’S most beautiful countryside, and most stunning coastlines. The beaches of this area of the UK are actually known as the ‘English Riviera’ and can certainly be counted amongst the best in the British Isles.
2. Atmosphere
Exeter is considered a fairly upmarket and well-to-do city, but is much livelier than other cities with this kind of reputation. There is a definite bustle around the city, which is helped by the presence of so many university and language school students.
Although it has a university, the city itself has quite a small and ‘local’ feel about it, which ensures that people are friendly and helpful. The small and compact nature of Exeter also means that you can pretty much walk everywhere you need to go, which is both convenient and cheap.
3. Safety
One of the great things about living somewhere like Exeter is that there tends to be a low crime rate. Of course, the same precautions should be taken here as elsewhere, but generally speaking you are less likely to experience or witness crime than in some of the larger UK cities.
4. Entertainment
Although Exeter is full of character and ancient history, it is still able to offer all the amenities and comforts that would be expected of a modern day city, and more. The fact that Exeter is home to a large and prestigious university, and a good number of language schools too, means that there is a huge student population that demands good quality nightlife! In addition to all the clubs and bars, there is also a great range of restaurants, cinemas and shopping facilities, which ensure that as long as you’ve got some money to spend, you’ll never be bored.
5. History
Irrespective of whether you’re a history ‘buff’ or not, you can’t fail to be enchanted by Exeter’s old cobbled streets and ancient buildings. Exeter has a long and interesting history, which dates as far back as the Romans, if not further. Significant parts of the Roman wall still remain, though most of the visible structure was built later. Anyone with a real interest in history can learn all about it at the city’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum.
More information on English courses in Exeter
Tags: exeter, england, history, language, course, london, location, learning, english
Posted by Laura Lippert 2009-11 under Experience Cultures,
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