Student Spotlight: Travelling During Your Studies

Hello! I am Lainey, a first-year student at Durham University, and I wanted to share a little about how I spent my spring break—an experience that really highlighted what is possible when you study in the UK.

Training Camp in Portugal

For the first part of the break, I joined the university’s volleyball team for a five-day training camp in southern Portugal, near Faro. It was my first time travelling without my family, and although I was a bit nervous, it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences I have had so far. We trained alongside athletes from across Britain, which gave me a new perspective on teamwork and helped me grow significantly as a player.

Beyond the training, we had time to enjoy the beaches, sample local food, and explore the coastal towns together. It struck a perfect balance between challenge and fun, and showed me how quickly travel in Europe can become part of student life here.

Turkey and Greece

After Portugal, I met up with family for a trip through Turkey and Greece. We visited historic mosques in Istanbul, explored the ancient ruins of Athens, and even had the chance to island hop in the Aegean. From the Blue Mosque to the Parthenon, every stop brought something new—whether that was trying unfamiliar foods, navigating different cultures, or simply appreciating the rich history surrounding us.

The UK Advantage

What made this all possible was being based in the UK. Travel is more accessible here, and the academic calendar gives enough flexibility to make the most of these opportunities. In just a few weeks, I gained practical independence, deepened my understanding of global cultures, and came back feeling re-energised for the term ahead.

Looking back, this spring break was not just a vacation—it was an important part of my learning experience. Studying abroad in the UK has opened up a world of possibilities I had not imagined before, and I am so glad I took the leap.