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[Ianuvrat (Anuvrat)]

From Leeds with Love: An MBA Exchange Adventure

Imagine this: you’re wrapping up your MBA, and you find yourself in Leeds, UK, not just for a few weeks but for a thrilling six-month semester exchange. But let’s be real—this isn’t just any study abroad program. No, this is an epic quest across the UK, Ireland, and beyond!

Academic pressure was light, lectures were twice a week, and the rest of the time? Well, I was out exploring, soaking up culture, and discovering hidden gems. Turns out, this wasn’t just an exchange program—it was a travel odyssey where every city told its own story, and every moment was an adventure.

Let’s talk favorites first.

York: A Magical Journey into Harry Potter’s World

York, nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, was a magical detour that transported me straight into the world of Harry Potter. The moment I stepped onto The Shambles, a winding medieval street lined with timber-framed buildings, I felt like I was walking down Diagon Alley. The narrow alleyways and quaint shops selling everything from wands to butterbeer added to the enchanting atmosphere.

York Minster, with its towering Gothic architecture, was a sight to behold, and the ancient city walls offered breathtaking views. But it was the Harry Potter-themed experiences that truly captivated me. From visiting the shop that inspired Ollivander’s to exploring the hidden nooks and crannies that felt like they could be straight out of Hogwarts, York was a dream come true for any Potterhead.

Whitby and Scarborough: Seaside Serenity

A seaside gem (Whitby) isn’t just about fish and chips and quaint cottages—it’s also the birthplace of legendary explorer Captain James Cook that stole my heart and a beachy paradise (Scarborough) where I might have spent a tad too long perfecting my sunburn. Each coastal town had its own charm, making me want to build sandcastles and eat ice cream, even in the chilliest of weather.

Liverpool, London, Manchester, and Bath: A City Symphony

Liverpool? It’s official: I’m in love. The music, the history, the Scouse accents—it was like a Beatles fan’s dream come true.

London? An epicenter of museums where I stood at the Prime Meridian, right on the edge of the world, feeling like time itself had paused for me. . Bath? A historical masterpiece that left me in awe. Each city had its own unique rhythm, and I danced to every beat.

Manchester? a mecca for football fans. I found myself swept up in the excitement, touring the iconic Old Trafford stadium and soaking in the rich history of the beautiful game. But Manchester isn’t just about football; it’s also a city that takes its beer seriously. From traditional pubs to craft breweries, there’s a pint for every palate.

Scotland , though? That’s where things got truly magical. Our 7-day road trip along the North Coast 500 was like driving through a postcard—mountains, lochs, and glens that seemed to have stepped out of a fairy tale. Edinburgh was charming, but the remote corners of Scotland? Simply breathtaking.

Wales made an impression too, especially Cardiff, where the locals’ dedication to preserving the Welsh language was nothing short of inspiring. And if you ever find yourself in Northern Ireland, ditch the flights and hop on a Stena Line ferry from Liverpool to visit Giant’s Causeway. It’s the perfect budget-friendly way to experience one of nature’s greatest wonders via seaway.

You don’t have Irish Visa, but you are dogged enough to pass through immigration. It all began with the under-the-radar UKIV scheme, a stealthy little visa hack that let me waltz into the Republic of Ireland as if I had a VIP pass. Picture me, confidently brandishing my copy of the terms and conditions like a secret agent, sneaking through immigration with a grin. Who knew bureaucratic loopholes could be so exhilarating?

My first major adventure? A sky-high tandem skydive over Bridlington. There I was, gearing up for a 10,000-foot plunge. My instructor, who had just celebrated his 6,000th jump (talk about experience!), looked at me like a seasoned pro. Me? I was a bundle of nerves and excitement, screaming my head off in what can only be described as a joyous, free-fall symphony.

So there you have it—my MBA exchange saga, full of daring skydives, sneaky visas, and enough scenic beauty to make any traveller’s heart race. If you’re ever in need of a grand adventure, take a page from my journey. The UK is waiting, and it’s ready to make your travel dreams come true!