The city of Preston

      When I first arrived in Preston, I felt I landed in a different world. I thought it would be just like my home town, since all I knew about it was that it had the same population. But I was wrong!

      The busy, crowded streets of Arad (my home town) were replaced by wide streets with drivers who are very cautious and considerate (anyone who visited Arad knows how different it can be). I chose to start with this since I came to Preston by car.

      The long rows of of red brick houses gave me a real British feeling. I used to see these in the movies, so going out of the house is always a wonder (the feeling gets less intense with time, but it is still a wonder). You can still see the old chimneys reaching towards the sky, and I keep expecting to see storks in their nests, even though there are no storks around Preston.

      Preston is dotted with many beautiful, green parks. You must go for a walk by the river in Avenham park, then ride your bike to Moore park to feed some ducks. If you like cycling, you should give the Guild Wheel a go - 21 miles of route that will take you through the beautiful docks, along the canal, through wooded areas, and a few city streets.A nice drink at the docks at sunset will melt your heart. These are just a few things you can do to unwind and escape the busy city while still being in the city.

      I am not an history fan, but I was impressed with the two museums: the Harris Museum, which also hosts an art gallery for all the art passionate, and the Museum of Lancashire. they are not only informative, but interactive as well. You will not get bored in there, that's for sure!

      These things are great, but sometimes I miss the feeling of a living, pulsing city. That is when I head out for a walk on Fishergate (downtown Preston). There are stores to suit every person's taste (and wallet): from high-end fashion stores to the exciting Pound store. When you get tired of shopping, or window shopping, you can find a nice coffee shop at almost every corner.

       For all those sports fans, there is a big football stadiums where you can watch games. But if you are not into watching, but playing, just cross the street into Moore Park, where you can find many pitches to play on, and maybe even people to play with. But if you don't like football, why not try some cricket there?

      Are you picky about food, or daring to try something else? this city has something for every taste: Mediterranean, Egyptian, Chinese, Arab, and British. If you look closer, you will find even more. You can even find the 'traditional' KFC, McDonalds, Starbucks, and so on. 

      You will never feel a foreigner in Preston. You are always surrounded by people from almost every nation, of almost every religion, and with many passions and hobbies. So come to Preston, and have an excellent experience!