Discovering Cymru

by Aline Vincent (level A2)

 

From September 8th to 15th, I visited Wales, with a friendly group of UIAD’s English students and Melanie Brumberg, UIAD English teacher, who was very kind and who helped us to practise our English.

The country that is part of the UK but with its own parliament, is bordered by England to the East, Irish Sea to the North and West, Celtic Sea to the Southwest, Bristol Channel to the South. We came in this way, after visiting the lovely English town of Bath with its Roman Thermal baths.

Wales is largely mountainous with green hills and a lot of sheep (3 sheep for 1 inhabitant!). Its highest peak, mount Snowdon, is 1,085 metres high.

We crossed the country from South to North, by bus, and even with an authentic steam train, and visited many different sites: Roman remains (Caerleon), castles and fortresses, (Cardiff, Pembroke, Beaumaris, Conwy), coastal village with coloured houses (Aberaeron), Anglican cathedrals (Llandaff, St Davids), Art and History Museums (Cardiff, St Fagans), a wonderful garden at Bodnant Garden…

We also had a walk in the unusual village of Portmeirion, created by a passionate architect and we breathed the air of the sea at LLandudno, a Victorian style seaside resort.

We didn’t forget that the industrial revolution began in Wales in the 19th century: the impressive but still fun visit of an old coal mine, Big Pit, at Blaenavon, with former miners, reminded us.

Wales is considered as one of the Celtic nations. Around 600,000 people (25% of the population) speak the Welsh language. Everyone can learn this language at school, even at university. It is a very important part of Welsh identity.

Another part of this identity is rugby! Our trip began at the same time as the beginning of the Rugby World Cup 23! So, it was a special moment for many of us to taste the local beer in a pub at Cardiff with the Welsh supporters!

In this country known for its poetry and songs, and its artistic culture, it was also an emotional experience for some of us to attend the incredible « Ainadamar » opera in the fantastic Millenium Centre of Cardiff. 

The trip ended just as we had started it, in joy and a good mood, still without rain!

I’m very happy to have discovered this country and its culture and hope to come back.