TOP 10 EXPERIENCES

For England

4. Venture to Oxford or Cambridge for a Taste of British Academia

Few places in the world embody the spirit of academia quite like Oxford and Cambridge, England’s two most prestigious university cities. Steeped in centuries of tradition, their grand libraries, ivy-clad colleges, and timeworn lecture halls have nurtured generations of scholars, scientists, writers, and leaders. Walking their ancient streets feels like stepping into a living legacy of British academic excellence. In Oxford, the “City of Dreaming Spires,” as poet Matthew Arnold famously described it, the University of Oxford boasts over 900 years of scholarly tradition. Here, visitors can explore Christ Church College, whose magnificent Great Hall is said to have inspired Hogwarts in Harry Potter, or step into the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest and most breathtaking libraries in the world. The domed Radcliffe Camera rises proudly at the heart of the city, a symbol of Oxford’s intellectual prestige. As you wander through its cobbled lanes and hidden quadrangles, you’re retracing the footsteps of literary legends like J.R.R. Tolkien, Lewis Carroll, and Oscar Wilde, all of whom found inspiration within these historic walls. Just a short journey away, Cambridge offers its own magical blend of history, elegance, and vibrant student energy. Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is equally rich in tradition, known for its beautiful college buildings and peaceful riverside setting. One of the most iconic ways to take in the atmosphere is by punting along the River Cam, gliding past famous landmarks like King’s College Chapel, with its soaring Gothic architecture and luminous stained-glass windows, and the cleverly constructed Mathematical Bridge. Explore the grand courts of Trinity College, where Isaac Newton once studied, or admire the priceless manuscripts and scholarly serenity of the Wren Library. Together, Oxford and Cambridge offer more than just a glimpse into the world of academia—they invite you into a timeless realm of learning, discovery, and inspiration. Their beauty and heritage continue to shape the minds of the future while honoring the brilliance of the past.