Chevening Social Media Ambassador Haikaeli Gilliard, who is currently completing a master’s in advanced health and care management at Swansea University, shares the perfect way to spend a sunny weekend in the UK.
‘Before I came to the UK, I used to watch TV shows and romcoms where everyone seemed so excited for summer to arrive. I didn’t understand the fuss, but fast forward to today, and I am now definitely one of those people… ready to sunbathe and chat about how good the weather has been with anybody who is willing to listen!
Not only have I learned to appreciate the sun after experiencing the long British winter, but I’ve also come to love the rain (Kudos to the Welsh weather!).
If you’re getting ready to start your Chevening year, you’ll no doubt have a long list of activities you want to tick off during your time in the UK. To help you, I have collected five summer weekend activities you can do alone or with friends.
While summer often screams ‘outdoorsy’, I understand some people may enjoy the indoors more or a mix of both. So, taking this into account, most of the activities included can be moderated to suit both those who enjoy the great outdoors and the cozy indoors.
Let the magic begin!
1. Attend a festival or fair
During this time of year, many businesses are out showcasing what they do best, and the products and services they offer.
Popular festivals often revolve around food, music, culture, and public holidays. For example, I recently attended the Swansea Classic Vehicle Show, which attracted more than 400 vehicles and thousands of spectators, all of whom gathered in awe of the beauty and evolution of the car models. I even had a chance to talk with the owners, who were extremely knowledgeable and passionate about vintage cars.
You can search for events and communities you’re interested in on social media. Simply Google them, or join a mailing list from a website like Eventbrite to be notified of different festivals and events near you.
Me standing beside a Triumph TR2 1955 in British Racing Green.
2. Get your body moving
Go for a run, walk, hike, dance, skate, cycle—whatever suits your fancy!
The benefits of exercise are tremendous, from boosting your mood to improving your overall health. And there are multiple rewards if you venture outside, from soaking up vitamin D to breathing in the fresh air.
But you can also move your body indoors, which I have been doing for quite some time now. Occasionally, I attend group exercise activities too. My absolute favourite group activity is the salsa dance classes organised by the Centre for African Entrepreneurship (CAE) in Swansea.
3. Do something artistic
Art has a wonderful way of soothing you, unleashing your inner creativity, and expanding your perspective.
You could visit an exhibition, attend an art class, go to the theatre, host an art session with your friends, or colour in the comfort of your room. You can buy a couple of art supplies from your local supermarket and invite some friends over or indulge on your own.
There are a myriad of arts and crafts ideas on Pinterest that you can get involved with over the weekend.
As an art curator, I also enjoy visiting art galleries and interacting with the exhibitions or art programmes they have.
Me at the Swansea University Singleton campus, appreciating a mural after visiting the Egypt Centre.
4. Spend time with friends
One of the highlights of my Chevening journey has been making friends from all over the world and becoming more culturally versed.
I have hosted dinners and game nights and, equally, have been hosted by others and introduced to new foods and ways of doing things.
Most recently, my friends and I organised a picnic at Rhossili Bay, known for its stunning views and expansive sandy beach. We brought our munchies and games and had an amazing time outdoors, catching up on what everyone has been up to.
Sharing a picnic with friends.
5. Commune with nature
Why not buy an indoor plant to take care of or take a walk to the park or public gardens in your city?
My friends, a lovely couple, took me to see Clyne Gardens, one of the UNESCO heritage sites in Swansea. Spanning around 50 acres and boasting a fine collection of flowers and trees from different parts of the world, this incredible site was established by the Glynn Vivian Family in 1921.
If flowers and trees aren’t your thing, what about the beach, the moor, or the mountains? Whatever your preference, the UK has something for everyone!
These are just some ideas for a lovely summer weekend as a Chevening Scholar in the UK. But as you’ll soon find out, the possibilities are endless!’
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