Summer School, Oxford

“If you do follow your bliss you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while, waiting for you, and the life that you ought to be living is the one you are living. Follow your bliss and don't be afraid, and doors will open where you didn't know they were going to be.” 

~ Joseph Cambpell 

I didn't know where this door will lead me to, but the little voice in my heart led me to Oxford, which I decided to enroll in the Faculty of Astrological Studies Summer School 2014...This is my first western trip. Oxford, here I come!

I farewell my husband and took Qatar flight transit in Doha before arrived at London Heathrow airport around 11pm and slept overnight at Iblis hotel nearby the airport. It was a long traveling journey... I know I need to sleep well and rushed to Oxford for the summer school next day before 2pm for the class. This time, I really lack of research for this UK trip as there are a lots of pre-studies for this course I need to equip myself as a beginner in astrology. 

From Heathrow to Oxford the journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes if travel by coaches. I prefer coaches because it can stop at the nearest station where I don't have to drag my heavy luggage and walked for long distance. The bus ticket can be purchased at terminal 5, there are wifi inside the bus, therefore it is very convenience. 

I took the stop at "Queens Lane", walked to the Turl Street and look for entrance of Exeter College. I walked along the street but I failed to notice the Exeter College sign, most of the college gate is closed and I have to ask around for direction. But not much people know about the college either, I think most of them are visitor also.

Exeter College founded in 1314 and it is one of the oldest in the University. This building is historical and I like to imagine this building full with spell and magic all around, just like Harry Porter's film. It is also my pleasure to be able to stay and experience a week studies in this lovely place. 

 

Accommodation in Exeter College, I booked the shared bath room hotel room

Library and beautiful gate behind my classroom, from this garden you actually can take a good look at the Radcliffe Camera view.

This whole trip is like a dream which I felt reluctant to wake up and back to my home country. Oxford really offers me a truly special student experience where it is unique, historical and full with mystical. I can now understand why it is also known as the "city of dreaming spires", a term coined by poet Matthew Arnold.

Not only the environment, the food, the interaction from the participants from all around the world purposely flied over here for the intellectual exchange. It really enrich my experiences and this is one of the trip I like it very much.