Chester Calling

A lot has happened within the last two weeks. I have made more friends, did loads of traveling, and actually got papers written. My plan was to not make any new connections within the last weeks of being here as to not get too emotionally attached, thus making my departure even harder. But, you can always make new friends and there are hundreds of ways to keep in touch with them whilst you are temporarily away from one another.

In particular, I have made a good friend who is from the Chester area. Chester was not in my plans of weekend trips, but when the opportunity came to have another 'proper' night out and see a new town, I thought, "Sure, I've got enough work done to not feel guilty about taking off for the weekend."

Not knowing what to expect, except maybe another quaint town with a church and shopping center, I did not set my standards too high. But, upon arriving at the train station, I was immediately taken aback at how beautiful and charming Chester is. Usually the area right outside a train station is not anything to write home about--it is mostly run down and desolate. But, Chester has taken extra steps to woo one after setting one foot off the train.

The little English town has cobble stoned roads and a unique three-story shopping area that reminds me of an M.C. Escher sketch. A visitor cannot pass through the town without seeing the secret celebrity 'Balloon Man.' Also, a must for anyone new to the city is a little club known by locals as Rosie's. On the outside signage, the building reads 'RB's Night Club'; but, the regulars know the place as it once was--Rosie's--the way it was before it was bought and sold to another owner. Around every corner, I fell more and more in love with Chester. Each awning is carefully crafted and each building, beautifully fashioned to create the seemingly perfect town. Seriously, Ralph Lauren should have a photo shoot here, if he has not already.

Topping off the scene is a hidden park with the most adorable miniature train and squirrels and bunnies in abundance. The park overlooks and leads to the riverside where the water is full of classic, old boats used mostly for late-night dinners in the glistening moonlight. Honestly, I could not have dreamed up a cuter, cleaner, more perfect town.

One last surprise awaits on the highest point of the city which is University of Chester. In the prettiest town I have ever seen is not only a friendly, relaxed vibe, but also a place where I could complete my Masters Degree one day...I have a feeling I will be back here and it could be in as little as a year and a half to do just that.

Chester is a hidden gem in England--not a place many outside the country have heard of, but definitely a truly lovely borough, nestled in the country I have fallen in love with.

Peace.