tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30346663315036675402024-03-13T02:40:20.824+00:00Moving to Oxford? Download your relocation guides hereThe Oxford Fresher is a fun blog dedicated to Oxford newcomers, expats and anyone moving to Oxford. It contains everything you need to know about moving to Oxford, getting settled and enjoying the Oxford life. You'll also find a number of dowloadable Relocation Guides on topics such as "Where's the best place to live in Oxford?' Renting in Oxford' and 'Arrival Survival' tips to help you on our way!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-33648457355003524272013-04-30T16:30:00.000+01:002013-04-30T16:35:44.820+01:00UK Power Adaptors<style>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The standard </span><span style="font-size: small;">power plug and socket design used in the UK is the</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">BS1363, which</span><span style="font-size: small;"> consists of two horizontal, rectangular pins at the bottom and a larger, vertical pin at the top. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cMzrr2hbKm4/T1pB5X1u1DI/AAAAAAAAA0g/mlpCxjKgOtQ/s1600/Powerpoint2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cMzrr2hbKm4/T1pB5X1u1DI/AAAAAAAAA0g/mlpCxjKgOtQ/s1600/Powerpoint2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I</span><span style="font-size: small;">f your move to Oxford is an international one and you're planning on packing items such as your </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">camera, </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">mobile phone, laptop, </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">hairdryer or electric shaver, </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">don't forget to buy a couple of <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000P0FIUM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B000P0FIUM" style="color: #444444;"><u>UK power adapters</u></a> at the airport <i>before</i> you arrive. Depending on where you are traveling from, they can be much harder to find once you've entered the country and a lot more expensive!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>The BS1363 design is also used in Ireland, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong, Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE, Qatar, Yemen, Oman, Cyprus, Malta, Gibraltar, Botswana, Ghana and Zimbabwe as well as several of the former British Caribbean colonies such as Belize, Dominica, St Lucia, St Vincent and Grenada. </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">Moving is stressful at the best of times, but relocating to a new country can take it to a whole new level. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">That said, there are lots of things you can do before you leave to alleviate these pressures and ensure that your move to Oxford is a smooth one. Check out The Oxford Freshers guide to <a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.com/p/everything-you-need-to-know-before-you.html"><b style="color: black;">Everything you need to know before you arrive</b></a>, </span><span style="font-size: small;">for lots of helpful tips.</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IXycSPN0gPo/T1nMOsdyuRI/AAAAAAAAA0I/a3KQPZbAqdM/s1600/power+point.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-92217124011571369282013-04-30T15:00:00.000+01:002013-04-30T16:28:19.779+01:00The Oxford Fresher's Relocation Guide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #666666; text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">The Oxford Fresher is now very </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">pleased to provide a <b>FREE</b> downloadable </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">sample of our Relocation Guide </span></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Download your copy here</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a class="ec_ejc_thkbx" href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?c=cart&i=1087236&cl=188739&ejc=2" target="ej_ejc"><img alt="Add to Cart" border="0" src="http://www.e-junkie.com/ej/ej_add_to_cart.gif" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a class="ec_ejc_thkbx" href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?c=cart&i=1087236&cl=188739&ejc=2" target="ej_ejc"><br />
</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.............................................<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">After flipping through its table of contents, </span></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">learning more about the author and reading the first chapter, </span></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">"Everything you need to know before you arrive," </span></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">we're sure you'll soon be back for</span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> the full edition! </span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Still not sure? Check out our <b><a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/p/customer-testimonials.html" style="color: blue;">Customer Reviews </a></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(The term 'fresher' is usually reserved for college students, but I use it broadly throughout this guide for anyone new to Oxford).</span></i></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-25510036025600970302013-04-30T08:00:00.000+01:002013-04-30T16:34:32.735+01:00Getting the most out of your luggage<style>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">When arriving in a new country with nothing but a suitcase and the </span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">clothes on your back every centimetre and kilogram counts!</span></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><b style="color: black;">Is it time to put your suitcase on a diet?</b> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">When was the last time you weighed your suitcase? Probably before your last big trip, right? </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">How many of you have ever tried weighing it empty? After checking your airline's maximum weight allowances, you might be surprised to see just how many valuable kilograms you've lost before you've even begun.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><b style="color: black;">Lightweight suitcases </b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">If you don’t
already own a suitcase, or can afford to buy a new one, I highly recommend shopping around for the lightest one
you can find. Be sure to keep your airline's maximum baggage dimensions in mind and remember that as far as luggage is concerned, bigger is not always better. There’s no point having an enormous
suitcase, if filling it will tip
the scales. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">After doing a quick search online, the lightest check-in-size case I could find was the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0049H9WUO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B0049H9WUO" style="color: #444444;"><i><u>Samsonite Cubelite Upright 74cm</u></i></a> (74 x 50 x 33), which weighs just 3.2kg. It's by no means the cheapest on the market, but just think of all the extra shoes you could pack! </span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L8w-CjDwBzM/T4dHgPc4InI/AAAAAAAAA6A/i2eYGEh4SNg/s1600/Antler+Liquis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L8w-CjDwBzM/T4dHgPc4InI/AAAAAAAAA6A/i2eYGEh4SNg/s1600/Antler+Liquis.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004QKVP2C/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B004QKVP2C"><u><b>Antler</b></u></a> </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="productName" itemprop="name">Liquis International Cabin Case <b>Colour:</b> Graphite </span><b style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Size:</b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> 56 x 35 x 23 cm</span><b style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> Weight:</b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span><span class="weight" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">2.0kg</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="weight" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b><span lang="EN-US">Lightweight cabin cases</span></b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">If you’re planning
on doing lots of travel when you arrive, I also recommend buying a small, lightweight cabin case. Not only are they perfect for mini
breaks, they’ll allow you to get the absolute most out of your carry on
allowance when you first arrive.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Before moving to Oxford, I purchased an </span><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000V5H0BQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B000V5H0BQ"><u style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Antler New Size Zero 2011 Super Lightweight Cabin Suitcase</span></u></a><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">, which weighs 2.4kgs, but it has since been outdone by
the Antler Liquis, </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">(pictured above). Not only does the Liquis have the added benefit of having 4 wheels, it weighs just</span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> 2kg! While the debate continues over which is better, 2 wheels or 4? I think four-wheeled suitcases are</span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> far easier to pull through crowded airports and subways. Which do you prefer?</span></span></span></div>
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</div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0049H9WUO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B0049H9WUO"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-27018217185213621422012-08-17T08:00:00.000+01:002012-08-28T06:27:32.192+01:00Oxford Blue Ice Cream<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">What are you up to this weekend? I'm SUPER excited because Johnny and I are flying home </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">to help celebrate his Granny's 90th birthday and it looks as if you'll have something to celebrate in Oxford too... Have you seen the forecast? 27 and sunny means only one thing - a visit to one of G&D's Ice Cream Cafes is a must!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VCYvELQ6iJY/UCpSYaO3EVI/AAAAAAAACCQ/H-z43ToH3cw/s1600/G&D2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VCYvELQ6iJY/UCpSYaO3EVI/AAAAAAAACCQ/H-z43ToH3cw/s1600/G&D2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Known
for their wide and imaginative range of ice cream flavours, G&D's has become something of an Oxford institution but you'll need no excuse to visit. There's always something new and exciting to try -</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">'Black and Blue' (blackberry and blueberry), 'Golden Secret' (Crunchie Bar) and Hamlet (white chocolate & raspberry) all frequent the menu, but my favourites are </span><span style="font-size: small;">'Bananarama' and</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">'</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2011/10/monday-morning-blues.html#.UDxWo0R1GH0" target="_blank"><u>Oxford Blue</u></a>' (blueberry). </span><b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">How about you? Which flavour do you like the best?</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xMucyY6dFUA/UCpNwFvnCnI/AAAAAAAACBQ/1Km-byW_rNc/s1600/OxfordBlueIcecream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xMucyY6dFUA/UCpNwFvnCnI/AAAAAAAACBQ/1Km-byW_rNc/s1600/OxfordBlueIcecream.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span></span><i><span style="font-size: small;">The first G&D's opened in Little Clarendon Street in the summer of 1992 and was named after its founders - George Stroup and Davis Roberts, who were both students of Oxford University. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dLhHNLXDZdQ/UCpSt2MYW8I/AAAAAAAACCY/XcKGNrDjtgw/s1600/GD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dLhHNLXDZdQ/UCpSt2MYW8I/AAAAAAAACCY/XcKGNrDjtgw/s1600/GD.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">All of G&D's ice cream continues to be made on
site and is delivered to its new siblings on St Aldates and Cowley
Road by bike. It doesn't get more Oxford than that!</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ay2iFdS2hIs/UCpwc3UwsCI/AAAAAAAACFg/X4Rv3JDZfaQ/s1600/OxfordBlueIceCream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ay2iFdS2hIs/UCpwc3UwsCI/AAAAAAAACFg/X4Rv3JDZfaQ/s1600/OxfordBlueIceCream.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Here's my favourite 'Oxford Blue' ice cream. Doesn't it look mouthwateringly delicious? Have a great weekend! xoxo</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"></span> </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-44914832645703106842012-08-10T16:04:00.000+01:002012-08-13T08:58:16.459+01:00Have a great weekend!<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">What are you up to this weekend? I'm off to Bath with my girlfriends and I'm psyched about </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">this weather! If you're in Oxford this weekend and looking for somewhere to soak up all the beautiful sunshine, check out <b>The Isis Farmhouse</b> - It's one of my faves. Hope you have a good one, and stay cool! </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kXswxeX9Wa8/UCUOwqdNagI/AAAAAAAACAI/Iu4eq6DqMKs/s1600/26:05+Isis+Farmhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kXswxeX9Wa8/UCUOwqdNagI/AAAAAAAACAI/Iu4eq6DqMKs/s1600/26:05+Isis+Farmhouse.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Feel like a </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span class="st">leisurely stroll or ride along the Thames this weekend? I hope so, because </span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: small;">The Isis </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: small;">can only be
reached by bike, boat or foot! It's worth the effort, I promise.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gc92rM2rnno/UCUPRj20OFI/AAAAAAAACAQ/5V7mvvWShRo/s1600/26:05+Isis+Farmhouse+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gc92rM2rnno/UCUPRj20OFI/AAAAAAAACAQ/5V7mvvWShRo/s1600/26:05+Isis+Farmhouse+2.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Hidden in the fields between
</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: small;">Donnington Bridge and </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: small;">Iffley Lock, this characterful riverside pub </span><span style="font-size: small;">is about as wholesome as it gets and boasts a huge riverfront garden, (great for the kids)</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: small;">, a nice, simple menu, </span><span style="font-size: small;">(around 4-5 dishes per day) and a super relaxed vibe. On the downside, there are no baby changing facilities and the service is a bit slow at times, but with a setting like this you won't be in a hurry to leave. </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A8xxbsLyhKI/UCUPZSsZvyI/AAAAAAAACAY/A42Nfm8JhAY/s1600/26:05+Isis+Farmhouse+3.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A8xxbsLyhKI/UCUPZSsZvyI/AAAAAAAACAY/A42Nfm8JhAY/s1600/26:05+Isis+Farmhouse+3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: small;">Tip: Be sure to call or check the website before setting off as opening hours vary depending on the time of
year</span><span style="font-size: small;"> and remember to take some CASH! (no cards accepted).</span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> Bonus: Vegetarian friendly. Highlight: The Isis' cream teas and homemade cakes.</span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b>The Isis Farmhouse</b>, </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Haystacks Corner, The Towing Path, Iffley Lock, Oxford OX4 4EL</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Food served: 12.30-2.30 & 6.30-8.30pm. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Phone: 01865 243854 </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N6k1i_79n3o/T8C-_9iA_jI/AAAAAAAABM4/rturj_zn-98/s1600/iffley+lock2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-24878989474027135292012-08-10T14:07:00.000+01:002012-08-10T16:48:15.806+01:00Renting in Oxford: Securing a property before you arrive<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Unfortunately
for most international visitors, securing a property before arriving in Oxford </span><br />
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">is a rather risky business - Twelve months is a long sentence to pay if you've somehow gotten </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">it wrong. But</span><span style="font-size: small;"> if you're </span><span style="font-size: small;">up for the challenge </span><span style="font-size: small;">and absolutely confident that you've</span><span style="font-size: small;"> done all your research, it is possible, (but by no means easy) to secure a property before you arrive. </span></div>
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PlBO6TPRzv0/UCOA9NSZ1tI/AAAAAAAAB_U/fiC8tU4hjqo/s1600/ToLet.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PlBO6TPRzv0/UCOA9NSZ1tI/AAAAAAAAB_U/fiC8tU4hjqo/s1600/ToLet.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Things to keep in mind when viewing a property, online or otherwise:</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>You can’t smell a picture and only </span><span style="font-size: small;">the best ones will be shown - ask to see more!</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Photographs are always taken at the brightest time of day.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> Natural sunlight is limited at </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> the best of times, so you want to ensure you get as much of it as you can! </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Ventilation is also important. Damp, dark bathrooms and living spaces become moldy very </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> quickly. Note: Some properties have bedrooms and/or living areas are below ground level.</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">If
it's not possible for you to view the property in person, try to
organise for a friend or </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> colleague to attend an inspection on your
behalf and ask them to take lots of photos. </span></div>
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SW1lHSguZGY/UCLjcyfe_sI/AAAAAAAAB9c/JNmzWq4zKhs/s1600/Fresh+Air.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SW1lHSguZGY/UCLjcyfe_sI/AAAAAAAAB9c/JNmzWq4zKhs/s1600/Fresh+Air.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Find out as much as you can about the local area – If you haven’t already downloaded </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> The Oxford Fresher's Guide to '<a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/p/guides.html#.UCUGNEQj6Kw" target="_blank"><b>Searching for your new home</b></a>' now is the time! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Remember that the advertisements will always focus on the properties strong points, so be </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> sure to consider what they are not telling you - Is the property behind a night club or train </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> line or in a dodgy part of town? (Google Maps is very useful).</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">If you plan to rent a ‘furnished’ property, ensure you know exactly what you are getting. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> Furniture, fixtures and fittings featured in the photographs will not necessarily be there </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> when you arrive. (A </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">full inventory list should be provided by your real estate agent).</span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eyCg-5fcXqw/UCN5GRYgiTI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/tiNR1Fyitb4/s1600/PermitOnly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eyCg-5fcXqw/UCN5GRYgiTI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/tiNR1Fyitb4/s1600/PermitOnly.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: Permit holders only, by<b> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/clivejonesoxford/" target="_blank">Clive Jones</a></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">·</span><span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Does the property have an allocated parking space? Is it </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">eligible for a permit? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> Tip: You'll find details on how to obtain a parking permit are included in The Oxford </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> Fresher's guide to <b><a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/p/guides.html#.UCUGNEQj6Kw" target="_blank">'Buying a Car & Driving in the UK'</a></b>.</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">and last but not least, if you (or your friend or colleague) notice any faults during the </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> inspection, ask if they can be fixed before you move in. Tip: Check the exhaust fan in the </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> bathroom!</span><br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> It’s
important to note that customer service is not one of Britain’s strong
suits - equal </span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> measures of preparedness, patience and persistence are a
must but in this case, </span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> will not necessarily guarantee success.</span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <b><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/clivejonesoxford/" target="_blank"></a></b></span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-37913325145960572302012-08-08T17:42:00.000+01:002012-08-08T19:34:05.769+01:00Bicycle Makeover Complete!<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I have been in LOVE with <a href="http://www.pashley.co.uk/index.php" target="_blank"><b>Pashley</b></a> bikes ever since we arrived in the UK but unfortunately, our budget just didn't stretch far enough to buy one and with their collection of classic bikes ranging <span class="st">from £525 - </span><span class="st">£</span><span class="st">995, I'm sure I'm not alone. </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-doC_y64K548/UB_3NXoD1nI/AAAAAAAABxM/jGA9mprKzFA/s1600/Pashley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-doC_y64K548/UB_3NXoD1nI/AAAAAAAABxM/jGA9mprKzFA/s1600/Pashley.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="http://www.pashley.co.uk/index.php" target="_blank">Pashley Cycles </a></b>have been hand building British bicycles in Stratford-Upon-Avon since 1926, and have named their new special edition model the ‘Britannia’ to reflect their pride in British manufacturing. The vintage styled Britannia cycle is based on their popular <b><a href="http://www.pashley.co.uk/products/princess-classic.html" target="_blank">Pashley Princess</a></b> and features a hand built frame, traditional wicker basket and comes in a choice of red, white or blue.</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="st"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b> </b></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="st"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Get the look for less</b></span></span></span></div>
<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Those of you who read my post on <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/cool-bike-accessories.html#.UB_5WkQj6Kw" target="_blank"><b>Cool Bike Accessories</b></a> may remember me mentioning </span></span><br />
<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">that I was planning to give my Raleigh bicycle a makeover. Johnny was busy studying over the weekend, so I thought I'd give it a go and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results!!! </span></span><br />
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<b><span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Here are the before and after photos: </span></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X5X8ESbzMIo/UCKdyjZI9bI/AAAAAAAAB28/Sy98BIjCCe0/s1600/Raleigh3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X5X8ESbzMIo/UCKdyjZI9bI/AAAAAAAAB28/Sy98BIjCCe0/s1600/Raleigh3.jpg" /></a></div>
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</div>
<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>BEFORE: </b>Boring old Raleigh Oakland Hybrid. (Image flipped for comparison).</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jjdjnqdy_RI/UCKU07ReqWI/AAAAAAAAB2I/MkNfjWxcRw0/s1600/raleigh2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jjdjnqdy_RI/UCKU07ReqWI/AAAAAAAAB2I/MkNfjWxcRw0/s1600/raleigh2.jpg" /></a></div>
<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b>AFTER:</b> What do you think? The whole transformation was SUPER easy and cost less than </span></span><span class="st">£</span><span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">15!</span></span><br />
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<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b>Here's how I did it:</b></span></span><br />
<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">1. Start by give your bike a really thorough clean and leave it to dry</span></span><br />
<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">2. Next, remove all the stickers using a hairdryer. A little heat makes them really easy to peel off. </span></span><br />
<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">3. Remove the wheels and mud guards, or find a handy man who can! (Thanks Johnny). It's not as hard as it sounds, but if you need some help, check out this <a href="http://youtu.be/Mfu96dIcPdA" target="_blank"><b>You Tube</b></a> clip for instructions. </span></span><br />
<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">4. Place your bike upside down on a drop cloth and let the fun begin.</span></span><br />
<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">5. Don't forget to paint the mud and chain guard, for a classic 'Pashley' look.</span></span><br />
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<span class="st"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Tip: Hammerite metal paint is fantastic as it only requires one coat and you can even paint straight over rust. The only thing I found a bit tricky is that it is quite thick and sticky. Work quickly and avoid going over any areas you've already painted for a nice smooth finish. Be careful not to over-apply or the paint will sag. If you have the space, use spray paint instead. It's much quicker and will give you a super smooth finish.</span></span><br />
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<span class="st"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b>What you'll need:</b></span></span></div>
<div style="color: black;">
<span class="st"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b> </b> </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rDckIqQYSmQ/UB_vbeSNi6I/AAAAAAAABxA/mBreHRP6lsY/s1600/BikeMakeover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rDckIqQYSmQ/UB_vbeSNi6I/AAAAAAAABxA/mBreHRP6lsY/s1600/BikeMakeover.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">1. <b><a href="http://www.diy.com/nav/decor/paint/specialist-paints/metal_paint/Hammerite-Metal-Paint-Smooth-Wild-Thyme-250ml-12067532" target="_blank">250ml Hammerite Smooth 'Wild Thyme' Metal Paint </a></b></span><span class="st" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">- £7.98</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">2. <a href="http://www.diy.com/nav/decor/decorating-sundries/painting-and-decorating-tools-accessories/brushes__rollers___pads/-specificproducttype-brushes/B-and-Q-Select-Fine-Finish-Paint-Brush-0-5-Inch-9254736" target="_blank">A </a><b><a href="http://www.diy.com/nav/decor/decorating-sundries/painting-and-decorating-tools-accessories/brushes__rollers___pads/-specificproducttype-brushes/B-and-Q-Select-Fine-Finish-Paint-Brush-0-5-Inch-9254736" target="_blank">12mm Fine Finish Paint Brush</a></b> - </span><span class="st" style="font-size: small;">2.98</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">3. <b><a href="http://www.diy.com/nav/decor/decorating-sundries/treatments-cleaners-protection/cleaners/-specificproducttype-white_sprit/B-and-Q-White-Spirit-750ml-12207528" target="_blank">750ml White Spirit</a></b></span><span class="st" style="font-size: small;"> - £2.48 </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">4. A drop cloth</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">5. <b><a href="http://www.diy.com/nav/decor/decorating-sundries/treatments-cleaners-protection/protective_covers___clothing/B-and-Q-Latex-Free-Disposable-Gloves-8Pck-10548921?icamp=recs" target="_blank">Disposable gloves</a></b> (Pack of 8) - </span><span class="st" style="font-size: small;">£0.98</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">...and if you can stretch the budget, these accessories will really help polish off the look:</span><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">6.<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002OMWS98/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B002OMWS98&linkCode=as2&tag=tof01-21"> <b>Quick Release Wicker Basket</b></a> - £19.99</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">7.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B003SOTBUU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B003SOTBUU&linkCode=as2&tag=tof01-21"> <b>Leather Handlebar Grips</b></a></span><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"> - </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">£15.00</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">8. Leather-look<a href="http://www.evanscycles.com/products/fwe/trail-saddle-ec041136" style="color: black;"> <b>FWE Trail Saddle</b></a> </span><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">- </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">£24.99</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">9. and this oversized Pashley <a href="http://www.thebikefactory.co.uk/productdetails.asp?productid=11401" style="color: black;"><b>8mm Bicycle Bell</b></a></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">- </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">£19.95!</span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Feeling inspired? I'd love to see YOUR before and after photos. </span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Share them with our readers </span><a href="mailto:theoxfordfresher@hotmail.com" style="color: black;"><u>here</u></a><span style="color: black;">.</span></b></span><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-88917344912810961642012-08-07T09:24:00.000+01:002012-08-28T06:32:48.931+01:00Oxford Guide: Grocery Shopping<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Grocery shopping in a new country can be a daunting and time consuming experience, but it can also be lots of fun! There are lots of weird and wonderful new products to discover, a </span><span style="font-size: small;">seemingly endless list of '3 for 2' and '2 for 1' deals and a </span><span style="font-size: small;">few fancy new names as well. For example, did you know that if Cinderella had have been written in the UK, she would have ridden home in a 'squash'? A few other veggies separated by a common language include; 'mangetout,' 'aubergine' and 'courgette,' otherwise known as snow peas, eggplant and zucchinni, but none are quite as important as learning the difference between <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2011/10/when-pants-are-not-pants.html#.UCDM_kQj6Kw" target="_blank"><b>'trousers' and 'pants!</b></a>' </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">As I've mentioned previously, I do most of our grocery shopping <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/oxford-guide-online-grocery-shopping.html#.UCDF-0Qj6Kw" target="_blank"><b>online</b></a>, but I love the markets and use the local supermarket for everything in between. I don't have a favourite, I usually just use whichever is most convenient, but there are some major differences to be aware of. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Here's a brief introduction to what Oxford has to offer:</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yxk6ml2qdcY/UCAqCccLxCI/AAAAAAAABz0/mKBGJSz3Fuc/s1600/06:08:12+Groceries1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yxk6ml2qdcY/UCAqCccLxCI/AAAAAAAABz0/mKBGJSz3Fuc/s1600/06:08:12+Groceries1.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;">Charles and Camilla check out at Belgravia's Waitrose. Photos by: The London Evening Standard</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Waitrose $$$</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">As the only supermarket chain to hold a <a href="http://www.royalwarrant.org/" target="_blank"><b>Royal Warrant</b></a>, Waitrose supplies some seriously 'posh nosh.' Understandably, it also has a reputation for being one of the most expensive super- markets in the UK, (along with M&S), but I think it offers far better value for money than it is given credit for. That said, if you choose to do your weekly shop here, it will cost considerably more than at any of the other 'big 4' supermarkets (Asda, Morrison's, Sainsbury's or Tesco), </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">but the quality and service you'll recieve are second to none...except maybe M&S. <b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Location:</b> Old High St, Headington.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;">Kate at the Menai Bridge Waitrose store in Anglesey, North Wales. Photos by: Lee Thompson & Chris Neill.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">M&S Simply Food $$$</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Marks & Spencer, (also affectionately know as 'Marks & Sparks), specialises in luxury food items and has the best selection of fresh, organic produce by far. All products are own-brand and come beautifully presented. Home-brand just sounds wrong in this case and the only real down<b> </b>side (apart from the price) is that most of M&S's produce comes with LOADS of packaging.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uPIEzi7io-8/UCAqxkMzPcI/AAAAAAAAB0E/gaRzFGCHEc8/s1600/06:08:12+Groceries3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uPIEzi7io-8/UCAqxkMzPcI/AAAAAAAAB0E/gaRzFGCHEc8/s1600/06:08:12+Groceries3.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">M&S also have a large selection of delicious ready-made meals. Please let me clarify by saying these are not words I ever dreamt I'd use in the same sentence, but they really are delicious! Keep an eye out for their 'Dine in for <span class="st">£</span>10,' deals where you get everything you need for a two course meal plus wine for two. <b>Locations:</b> Banbury Rd, Summertown, Queen St, City Centre, (the food section is on the ground floor towards the back of the store) and at the Oxford Retail Park at the end of Cowley Rd.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Tesco / Tesco Express / Tesco Metro $$</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I had no idea Tesco featured in Lily Allen's LDN (London Music Video) until my little brother came to visit last month. Every time we went past a store he'd start singing, <i>"There was a little old lady, who was walking down the road, she was struggling with her bags from Tesco!"</i> It was kinda cute. You can watch the clip below. (You may need to 'un-mute' the sound).</span></div>
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="322" src="http://www.dailymotion.com/embed/video/x2fa06" width="560"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2fa06_lily-allen-ldn_music" target="_blank"></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Known as the 'big bad giant', Tesco has put many of its smaller competitors out of business, but its customers enjoy excellent value for money and the convenience of extended trading hours. Some stores are even open 24 hours a day!</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Sainsbury's $$</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Although they own far fewer stores Sainsbury's is often compared to Tesco, but overall, I think that they provide far better customer service and a more pleasant shopping experience. They also offer a huge range of products to suit most budgets, from the Sainsbury's 'Basic' range, to 'Taste the Difference,' Sainsbury's answer to the up-market, restaurant quality foods provided by rivals like Waitrose and Marks & Spencer. Other ranges include; 'Organic', 'Freefrom' - for those who have wheat, gluten and dairy intolerances, a 'Kids' range and a 'Be Good to Yourself' range. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">The co-operative $$</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The co-op pride themselves in ethical trading and sourcing and ALL of their stores are powered by green energy. (A first for any UK retailer). Amongst their produce you'll find fairly traded bananas, wine, tea, coffee and chocolate. And if these weren't reason enough to visit, the co-op's 'Truly Irrisistable Chocolate Ice Cream' really is!</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-huTlwO2HUas/UCAv_Had7bI/AAAAAAAAB1U/l7A-MYWkFZ4/s1600/06:08:12+Groceries4.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-huTlwO2HUas/UCAv_Had7bI/AAAAAAAAB1U/l7A-MYWkFZ4/s1600/06:08:12+Groceries4.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;">Aldi $</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Short for <i>"<b>Al</b>brecht <b>Di</b>scount," </i>Aldi is SUPER cheap and stocks mostly own-brand products. The check-out system is a bit bizarre, but it's fast and furious and the quality and service are great. <b>Location: </b>Botley Rd, Oxford. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Expat shopping tips</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">In most cases, you'll be expected to pack your groceries yourself</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Fruit and vegetables are weighed by the cashier at the cash register</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Plastic bags are provided, but usually at a cost.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Always insist on receiving a receipt and check it before leaving the store.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">If paying by credit or debit card, take extra care to ensure 'cash back' has not been added </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> to your bill. (Unless of course you requested it).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Many stores offer loyalty/ discount cards. If you plan to shop at the same store regularly, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> it's definitely worth filling out the paperwork.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">If you're longing for items from home, check out my post on <a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/expat-survival-food-supplies.html#.UCAzsEQj6Kw" target="_blank"><b>expat survival food supplies</b></a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Unfortunately, few grocery stores in Oxford supply parking. If a car is a must, check out my </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> post on <a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/oxford-guide-oxfords-superstores.html#.UCAzyEQj6Kw" target="_blank"><b>Oxford's Superstores</b></a>.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Delis, specialty stores and farmer's markets coming soon!</span></b></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-52915103852481148742012-08-06T08:00:00.000+01:002012-08-08T17:44:44.389+01:00Cool bike accessories<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Sadly, like almost everyone in Oxford, I own a burgundy, ladies, Raleigh hybrid. You know the one. Nice, basic, entry level bike with nothing too special about it. But as any fashionista will tell you, it's all about the accessories daaar-ling! So why let our bikes be the exception?</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E5bwO0b7yTE/UBuf3--p9XI/AAAAAAAABpg/Xrk0PB7TWJ0/s1600/BikeAccessories3.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E5bwO0b7yTE/UBuf3--p9XI/AAAAAAAABpg/Xrk0PB7TWJ0/s1600/BikeAccessories3.jpg" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Honored by Architizer as one of the Ten Best Bike-related Design
Innovations of 2011, this neat leather<b> </b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69286355/6-pack-frame-cinch-polo-mallet-holder" target="_blank"><b>Frame Cinch</b></a> secures just about
anything (narrow) to the top tube of your bike. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-817RiLogjbU/UBugHH0sp-I/AAAAAAAABpw/J4yyH2S6l2w/s1600/BikeAccessories4.tif" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-817RiLogjbU/UBugHH0sp-I/AAAAAAAABpw/J4yyH2S6l2w/s1600/BikeAccessories4.tif" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Two leather<b> </b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69286355/6-pack-frame-cinch-polo-mallet-holder" target="_blank"><b>Frame Cinches</b></a> can also be used to neatly secure your brolly.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TKCJuES8H-g/UButrhLMBiI/AAAAAAAABqo/CFZ7vzCjAVQ/s1600/BikeAccessories5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TKCJuES8H-g/UButrhLMBiI/AAAAAAAABqo/CFZ7vzCjAVQ/s1600/BikeAccessories5.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Here's something we could all use in Oxford, a <a href="http://drybike.nl/" target="_blank"><b>Drybike</b></a> brolly holder! </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GSWbYPp46As/UBuz9wKdWOI/AAAAAAAABrg/2qReK74E3UE/s1600/BikeAccessories6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GSWbYPp46As/UBuz9wKdWOI/AAAAAAAABrg/2qReK74E3UE/s1600/BikeAccessories6.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">I know most people usually use TomTom when they're driving, but am I the only one who gets lost whilst cycling? With this<b> </b><a href="http://www.bicio.com/GoRide_iphoneBikeMount.php" target="_blank"><b>GoRide - Bike Mount for iPhone 3G/3GS</b></a> I'll never be lost again. GoRide is also great for using iPhone bike
apps like; iMapMyRide, EveryTrail, Trail Blazer, Cychosis,
RunKeeper and MotionX-GPS to track your progress and map your ride.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5_y1fv6-uM/UBuS09rhJmI/AAAAAAAABoo/EyuE7PaaoXQ/s1600/Bicycle+wine+rack.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5_y1fv6-uM/UBuS09rhJmI/AAAAAAAABoo/EyuE7PaaoXQ/s1600/Bicycle+wine+rack.jpg" /></a> <span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">If you like cycling and you like wine, you’re going to love this! Oopsmark's <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80312376/bicycle-wine-rack-leather-1-frame" target="_blank"><b>Bicycle Wine Rack </b></a>attaches easily to any 1″ bike frame and holds the bottle securely with a hidden clamp.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QFYbt-hT3rM/UBux8BR7qtI/AAAAAAAABrY/zK2Nv7wSfaA/s1600/BikeAccessories7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QFYbt-hT3rM/UBux8BR7qtI/AAAAAAAABrY/zK2Nv7wSfaA/s1600/BikeAccessories7.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Who says that bicycle bags have to look like… bicycle bags? This <a href="http://www.retrovelo.de/framebag.html" target="_blank"><b>Frame Bag</b></a> by Retrovelo is super stylish and provides two compartments, perfect for A4 notebooks or your laptop. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OouQcDx2FHQ/UBuf9tQGSgI/AAAAAAAABpo/mjl6vU5iDJY/s1600/BikeAccessories2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OouQcDx2FHQ/UBuf9tQGSgI/AAAAAAAABpo/mjl6vU5iDJY/s1600/BikeAccessories2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This Walnut <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66022413/seat-barrel-bag" target="_blank"><b>Barrel Bag</b></a> is also super cute and perfect for carrying smaller items like keys, sunglasses, and phones. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t4JAGkmtmUA/UBu3-ENzi8I/AAAAAAAABsQ/i6ZYGZG3MH8/s1600/BikeAccessories8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t4JAGkmtmUA/UBu3-ENzi8I/AAAAAAAABsQ/i6ZYGZG3MH8/s1600/BikeAccessories8.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Need a <a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=need+coffee&x=0&y=0#.UBu7hUQj6Kw" target="_blank"><b>good coffee</b></a> to start your day? The <b><a href="http://www.drinkcupholder.com/" target="_blank">LugCup</a> </b>coffee holder has got you covered.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j2Q91J3v85c/UBufyL28m7I/AAAAAAAABpY/4mgcPCnu8hw/s1600/BikeAccessories1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j2Q91J3v85c/UBufyL28m7I/AAAAAAAABpY/4mgcPCnu8hw/s1600/BikeAccessories1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Now you're really going to think I'm an alcoholic but this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49965950/bicycle-can-cage" target="_blank"><b>Bicycle Can Cage</b></a> can be used for other things than a beer you know! And last but not least, don't miss the <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2011/12/6-light-up-your-wheels-with-spoke-lit.html#.UCDXTUQj6Kw" target="_blank"><b>Spoke Lite</b></a>s I posted late last year. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>These are just a few of my favorites, but there are lots more out there. What do you think? Have you found any beauties of your own? I'd love to hear any other fun ways you've personalised your bike. </b> </span></div>
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<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Speaking of which, I've decided to let you all in on a little secret. I'm going to give my bike a makeover.</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> I'll post the before and after
photos soon, but in the mean time, wish me luck!</span><span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">Update: My bicycle makeover is now complete. <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/bicycle-makeover-complete_8.html#.UCKW7kQj6Kw" target="_blank"><b>Take a peek</b></a>. </span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-13332262648031316022012-08-04T09:29:00.000+01:002012-08-04T09:32:14.321+01:00Oxford Guide: Oxford's Superstores<div style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Buying your weekly groceries in Oxford can become a bit of a drag. Most of the stores are tiny, offer poor selections and have little or no parking. As a result, you may find yourself visiting lots of different stores to find everything on your shopping list only to find yourself limited by what you can physically carry home. One solution is to give <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/oxford-guide-online-grocery-shopping.html#.UBuZ6EQj6Kw" target="_blank"><b>online shopping</b></a> a go, but if that's not your style, try one of Oxford’s Superstores. They’re HUGE! </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gf2079vTKec/UBuMGkdGqaI/AAAAAAAABn4/qwIMov-hsPY/s1600/Shopping+Trolley+Bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gf2079vTKec/UBuMGkdGqaI/AAAAAAAABn4/qwIMov-hsPY/s1600/Shopping+Trolley+Bike.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;">Check out this wacky Cart Bike designed by </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.zieak.com/?s=cart+bike" target="_blank"><b>Ryan McFarland! </b></a></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;">Now there's a man on a mission.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Where you’ll find them</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Sainsbury’s - The Westgate Centre, Oxford OX1 1PA (Central Oxford)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Sainsbury’s - 289 Oxford Rd, Kidlington, OX5 2PE (North Oxford) </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Sainsbury’s - Heyford Hill, Littlemore OX4 4XR (South Oxford)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Tesco - Oxford Retail Park, Cowley OX4 6XJ (East Oxford)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Asda - London Rd, Wheatley OX33 1YZ (West Oxford)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Bonus: There’s loads of parking and some stores even offer a hand car wash while you shop. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Tip: Avoid visiting on the weekends and allow yourself plenty of time! </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tkOZ_Nm3oWQ/UBuKkpiFZWI/AAAAAAAABnw/otG0mPuvQa0/s1600/Ville+Shopping+Cart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tkOZ_Nm3oWQ/UBuKkpiFZWI/AAAAAAAABnw/otG0mPuvQa0/s1600/Ville+Shopping+Cart.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Ville urban folding bicycle designed by <b><a href="http://www.coroflot.com/iamjaechang" target="_blank">Hyuk-Jae Chang</a></b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Other stores with parking include:</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="snippet">M&S Simply Food - Banbury Rd, Summertown </span><span class="pp-headline-item">OX2 7GB</span><span class="snippet"> (North Oxford)</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="snippet">The Co-op - Banbury Rd, Summertown </span><span class="pp-headline-item">OX2 7BY</span><span class="snippet"> (North Oxford)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="snippet">Waitrose - Old High Street, Headington OX3 9JT (East Oxford) </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="snippet">Aldi - Botley Rd Oxford OX2 0HA (West Oxford) </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="snippet"><b>If anyone has come up with any ingenious ways of carrying their groceries home </b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span class="snippet"><b>by bicycle, I'd LOVE to hear them. I'll be including a few snazzy accessories in my next post, so stay tuned.</b></span></span><b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></b><style><!--
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-58951352457283713712012-08-03T09:00:00.000+01:002012-08-04T09:32:56.712+01:00Oxford Guide: Online Grocery Shopping<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Are you tired of lugging heavy groceries home or trying to
find ingenious new ways to carry </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">more on your bicycle? Maybe it’s time to give
online shopping a try. Before moving to Oxford, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I thought online shopping was reserved for those who had grown too old or frail to reach the top shelf and busy mums and dads who'd rather die than take their toddlers shopping... It didn't take long for me to change my mind. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FrWTzeNc300/UBk9e8LW4_I/AAAAAAAABlI/74HYmAkslN4/s1600/Grocery+shopping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FrWTzeNc300/UBk9e8LW4_I/AAAAAAAABlI/74HYmAkslN4/s1600/Grocery+shopping.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: 'Grocery Shopping', by ralphbijker.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Whether you
work long hours, don't have a car, or like me, simply hate visiting the grocery store, online shopping has lots of advantages...</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pros</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Shop from the convenience of you home any time of day or night,</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Find products quickly and easily using a key word search,</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Create and save your shopping lists and 'favourites,'</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Swap your selections for cheaper, suggested items at the checkout,</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Buy all the items you struggle to find at your local grocers,<br />
</span></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444;">Have all your groceries delivered to your door!</span> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Cons</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">You can't handpick your meat, fresh fruit or vegetables </span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">You may be given products closer to their end date than you would choose yourself. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">If an item you’ve ordered is not available it may be substituted for
something similar, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> but in my experience, this is usually a good thing!</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-size: small;">·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Delivery times with some suppliers can be very unreliable.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> </span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://groceries.asda.com/asda-estore/home/homecontainer.jsp?cmpid=ahc-ghs-home-sub_title&referrer=cookiesDetecting" target="_blank"><b>ASDA</b></a>, <a href="http://www.sainsburys-live-well-for-less.co.uk/shop-online/" target="_blank"><b>Sainsbury's</b></a>, <a href="http://www.tesco.com/groceries/" target="_blank"><b>Tesco</b></a> and <a href="http://www.waitrose.com/shop/BrowseCmdInHeader-Groceries" target="_blank"><b>Waitrose</b></a> all have online stores, but </span><span style="font-size: small;">I shop with <a href="http://www.ocado.com/webshop/startWebshop.do" target="_blank"><b>Ocado</b></a> and can’t recommend them
enough. They’re a little pricier than some of their competitors, but the
quality of their meat, fresh fruit and vegetables can’t be beat. The delivery men and women are very friendly, helpful and always on time, (if not a little early),
which is more than I can say for their competitors, (namely Tesco &
Sainsbury's). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-size: small;">One of the other little perks of shopping with Ocado is that they
occasionally pop little ‘thank you's’ in with their orders - Our second delivery
came with a complimentary bottle of wine and a block of Green & Black’s
chocolate! </span><br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>I'd love to hear where you buy your groceries. Do you shop online or prefer to pick your groceries yourself?</b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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--></style>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-70875285563547474172012-08-02T10:48:00.000+01:002012-08-02T17:25:52.481+01:00Moving to Oxford: Unlock your mobile phone<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444;">For those of you traveling from abroad, if you own a mobile phone and plan to use it when you arrive, make sure you get it 'unlocked' before you leave. Unfortunately, most phones are 'locked' to the <b>country and service provider</b> from which they were purchased, which can be a real hassle. For example, if you bought your phone from Vodafone and you replace your Vodafone SIM card with a SIM card from another network whether it's Orange, Virgin, O2, 3, or any other provider, your handset won't work. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7jjiq7Osx8/UBpByxczFJI/AAAAAAAABm4/LdlAXnF1OwI/s1600/tincan3.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7jjiq7Osx8/UBpByxczFJI/AAAAAAAABm4/LdlAXnF1OwI/s1600/tincan3.jpg" /></a></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Unfortunately, this also extends to SIM cards from the same service provider in different countries. For example, the Vodafone handset you bought in Australia, will not work with a Vodafone SIM card purchased in the UK (unless you have had your phone unlocked). </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYnBQMoLLIA/UBo93bA5m0I/AAAAAAAABmA/BnJ3Y42wFjw/s1600/TinCan2.jpg" style="color: #444444;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYnBQMoLLIA/UBo93bA5m0I/AAAAAAAABmA/BnJ3Y42wFjw/s1600/TinCan2.jpg" /></a></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Once unlocked, your mobile phone can be used with any compatible SIM card (including foreign SIM cards), on any network. Not only will this give you greater flexibility for prepaid SIMs and pay-as-you-go plans in the UK, you'll also avoid expensive overseas call rates when you're traveling. (Tip: Purchase a local SIM card whenever you travel abroad). </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Sx50F9qGv0/UBpDJPurD7I/AAAAAAAABnA/EXlotw9-qgE/s1600/tincan4.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Sx50F9qGv0/UBpDJPurD7I/AAAAAAAABnA/EXlotw9-qgE/s1600/tincan4.jpg" /></a></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"> </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;">Where can I get my phone unlocked? </b><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">If you've already arrived in Oxford and forgot to have you phone unlocked, </span><b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Benny's</b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> on St Aldates should be able to help you out. They generally charge between £5-15 depending on the make and model of you phone, but this may void your warranty. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Tip: </span></span><style>
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Buy yourself a
prepaid or pay as you go SIM card as soon as you arrive. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444;">Setting up your mobile phone with a plan or contract is far more challenging and frustrating than you will ever anticipate! </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444;">Until you can provide an English bank account, bankcard and statement from the same account (including a minimum of 5 transactions) and a permanent UK address, I'd save yourself the headache.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444;"> </span><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X7E9o7365RA/UBo9-HselFI/AAAAAAAABmI/K0-3f07dx_s/s1600/Tin+Can.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X7E9o7365RA/UBo9-HselFI/AAAAAAAABmI/K0-3f07dx_s/s1600/Tin+Can.jpg" /></a></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444;">Don't you just love these gorgeous </span><b><a href="http://madebyjoel.com/2010/04/tin-can-telephones.html" style="color: #444444;">tin can telephones</a></b><span style="color: #444444;">? I found them at <i>madebyjoel</i> and they reminded me of all the fun I used to have as a kid. Such simple pleasures. Joel's website is full of fun and creative projects, perfect for keeping your little ones occupied whilst you prepare for your move. Check it out </span><b><a href="http://madebyjoel.com/" style="color: #444444;">here</a></b><span style="color: #444444;">. </span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-55348772379771002172012-08-01T12:27:00.000+01:002012-08-01T12:33:23.927+01:00Moving to Oxford: Top tips for keeping in touch<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Life would be SO much easier if we all had 'Postal Owls' like the wizards in Harry Potter, changing address is a drag. If you're planning a move to (or from) Oxford, here are a few </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">tips for staying in touch 'muggle' style...</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f2jwjEDPOoQ/UAgq76vHjbI/AAAAAAAABjs/jnoaSwT9zdc/s1600/owl+post+harry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f2jwjEDPOoQ/UAgq76vHjbI/AAAAAAAABjs/jnoaSwT9zdc/s1600/owl+post+harry.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<div style="color: black;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Send change of address letters</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;">If you're lucky enough to know what your address will
be when you arrive in the UK, (or plan to redirect to another address),
start sending your change of address letters or emails ASAP. If you haven't already, it's also worth requesting to receive any ongoing statements digitally. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Tip: If your move is only temporary, keep a list of all your contacts to avoid having to find them all again when you return. (This list is also useful to have whilst you are away. Include policy numbers and account details for things like your bank account, insurance policies, accountant and property manager).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tfh1EpKVaC4/UAgrDSnuzJI/AAAAAAAABj0/OzwyY2NQcuw/s1600/owl+post+hogwarts.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tfh1EpKVaC4/UAgrDSnuzJI/AAAAAAAABj0/OzwyY2NQcuw/s1600/owl+post+hogwarts.jpg" /></a></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b> <span style="color: black;">Redirect your mail</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">For those of you that don't have time or simply can't be bothered writing a squillion notifications, your local post office may be able to help. Most offer redirection services for 1 month, 3 months, 6 months or up to a year at a time. Tip: If your move is a temporary one, redirecting your mail to your parent’s house or a PO Box until you return might not be a bad option. International redirection is possible and probably the most convenient, but it’s also the most expensive.<b> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Make a list</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">Finally, once you arrive, make a list of every new organisation you give your address to. Record their address, website or email so that you can easily send your change of address details, if and when you move again. It seems pedantic I know, but it really does make life SO much easier. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: small;">Wouldn't it be fun to surpirse a
Harry Potter fan with this awesome <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62260431/owl-post-gift-box" target="_blank"><b>Owl Post Gift Box</b></a> I found on Etsy?
I have to admit I'd probably squeel with delight if I found one in my mail
box! </span></div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-52081034116032686792012-07-22T13:47:00.000+01:002012-07-22T15:19:47.208+01:00Making friends as a 'grownup'<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Alex Williams wrote an article for last Sunday's <i>New York Times</i> about how hard it can be making new friends in you thirties and forties and judging from the amount of comments it's received, it has really struck a chord. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AiHU-lEVfQg/UAvSgpT5sqI/AAAAAAAABk4/EwAFpuuJLsA/s1600/Making+friends.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AiHU-lEVfQg/UAvSgpT5sqI/AAAAAAAABk4/EwAFpuuJLsA/s1600/Making+friends.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> <b><a href="http://goo.gl/zECGF" target="_blank">Read the story here</a>,</b> if you'd like, and weigh in: Have you, too, found it hard to make new friends as an adult? What about during you time here in Oxford? <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Do you ever find it awkward to "ask someone out"?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">If you're new in town or still struggling to get out and mingle, the </span><span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/oxforduniversitynewcomersclub/" target="_blank">Oxford University Newcomers' Club</a></b> might be a great place to start. You'll also find an extensive list of organised activities, clubs and classes on the </span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.dailyinfo.co.uk/whatson/classes.htm" target="_blank"><b>Oxford Daily Info</b></a> website. </span><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;">(Illustration by <b><a href="http://www.bluebed.net/project/illustrations/" target="_blank">Roman Muradov</a></b> for the New York Times).</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-59455298113302774052012-07-17T14:03:00.000+01:002012-07-19T16:04:58.950+01:00Frank Cooper's Vintage 'Oxford' Marmalade<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">'Behind every great man is a great woman' and Frank Cooper was no exception. His wife, Sarah Jane Cooper, made the first batch of Cooper's marmalade in her High Street kitchen in 1874. She was the first in Oxford to bottle and market her homemade marmalade commercially and 'Cooper's Marmalade' debuted in the family owned grocery store (on High Street) with great success. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">A favourite amongst Oxford University's dons and undergrads, </span><span style="font-size: small;">Cooper’s Oxford Marmalade became an essential part of college breakfasts and demand followed Oxford men far and wide - </span><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;">Even the Queen is said to enjoy Frank Cooper's at breakfast! (The company holds a <a href="http://www.royalwarrant.org/" target="_blank"><b>Royal Warrant</b></a>).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9-D380lJ3Y8/T_2rJzpgxZI/AAAAAAAABb8/LBHWq7a2kxc/s1600/FrankCooper%27sJam+Factory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9-D380lJ3Y8/T_2rJzpgxZI/AAAAAAAABb8/LBHWq7a2kxc/s1600/FrankCooper%27sJam+Factory.jpg" /></a><b style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Fancy Facts</b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">1</span> Did you know that a jar of Frank Cooper's marmalade went all the way to Antarctica with </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Captain Robert Falcon Scott</span>? It was found, many years later, buried in the ice!</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: #444444;"> </span>2</span> A jar of Frank Cooper's marmalade can be seen down the rabbit hole in the original 'Illustrated Alice in Wonderland.'</span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> 3</span> </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.thejamfactoryoxford.com/" target="_blank"><b>The Jam Factory</b></a>, on </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Park End Street, (Frank Cooper's original marmalade factory) is now home to an uber-cool restaurant, gallery and bar.<span style="color: #cc0000;"> 4</span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> There's an 'Oxfordshire Blue Plaque' at 83 High Street, commemorating Sarah Cooper's achievements.<span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lW4LM93CeDg/UAVa6VYY9MI/AAAAAAAABhI/z2hvOcAQbmY/s1600/FrankCooper%27s-Vegemite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lW4LM93CeDg/UAVa6VYY9MI/AAAAAAAABhI/z2hvOcAQbmY/s1600/FrankCooper%27s-Vegemite.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Frank Cooper's Marmalade is now owned by Premier Foods and continues to be sold to this day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>I'd LOVE to hear from anyone who's tried it. </b><b>Personally, Vegemite's my favourite. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>What's your favourite spread? </b></span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-27140144252273179252012-07-16T11:56:00.002+01:002012-08-28T06:18:19.361+01:00Oxford Guide: Child friendly cafes<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">No matter how strong the craving, walking into an unfamiliar cafe with a baby or toddler in tow can often spell disaster. Whether it's a mum who needs to breast feed, a toddler in need of a high chair or a teeny tiny squawker, the thought of it all can sometimes seem so hard that you'd rather stay at home. However, once you've discovered a few places with all the right ingredients, I hope you'll feel differently. Here are a few of my favorites:</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8uFW5jXixI/UAU9guz0PTI/AAAAAAAABgQ/zRY56RJJS8Q/s1600/KidsCafes-MaisonBlancSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8uFW5jXixI/UAU9guz0PTI/AAAAAAAABgQ/zRY56RJJS8Q/s1600/KidsCafes-MaisonBlancSmall.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.maisonblanc.co.uk/OurStores/StoreDetails/tabid/129/StoreId/13/Default.aspx" target="_blank"><b>Maison Blanc</b></a> (St Giles). One sniff in Raymond Blanc's authentic French</span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Boulangerie
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">and Pâtisserie and you'll be hooked. Go on, treat yourself, you know you desrve it! (Tip: avoid visiting during the early morning rush. Service is slow at the best of times and a disaster for tetchy tots.) </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D_h5mCdAGJo/UABLo5bmCCI/AAAAAAAABc0/nTtyuQiAR8Q/s1600/Summertown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D_h5mCdAGJo/UABLo5bmCCI/AAAAAAAABc0/nTtyuQiAR8Q/s1600/Summertown.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.summertownwinecafe.co.uk/" target="_blank"><b>Summertown</b> <b>Wine Cafe</b></a> (Summertown). This is SO much more than a wine bar. Venture inside during daylight hours and you will be very pleasantly surprised! Bonus: You'll find the SWC nestled amongst some of my favorite stores in Oxford. (Designer fashion + vintage interiors + art gallery + wine bar = heaven).<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><b> </b>Tip:<b> JoJo
Maman<i> </i><i><span style="font-style: normal;">Bébé</span></i></b><i><span style="font-style: normal;"> & <b>M&S</b> on Banbury Rd also provide excellent </span></i>baby changing
facilities. <b> </b></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ij27sJcdjIY/UAU9483aPSI/AAAAAAAABgY/RoblBQXuUMw/s1600/KidsCafes-Queens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ij27sJcdjIY/UAU9483aPSI/AAAAAAAABgY/RoblBQXuUMw/s1600/KidsCafes-Queens.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Queens Bakery </b>on Windmill Rd </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">(Headington), </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">is cheap as chips and has stacks of cute cakes made especially for kids. My friend Kate, (who's a mother of three), assures me that she can push her side by side buggy through the door with ease and never worries about taking up too much space. The interior is a little dated, but when you can get a decent coffee, three little treats for your munchkins and change from 5 quid, who cares?!</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kVwntTPiscg/UAU9_ZkXX-I/AAAAAAAABgg/2ryx0zOFY3U/s1600/KidsCafes-ModernArt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kVwntTPiscg/UAU9_ZkXX-I/AAAAAAAABgg/2ryx0zOFY3U/s1600/KidsCafes-ModernArt.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><b><a href="http://www.modernartoxford.org.uk/" target="_blank">Modern Art Oxford</a> </b>(City Centre). <a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2011/10/need-coffee.html" target="_blank"><b>The Missing Bean</b></a> and <a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2011/11/zappis-bike-cafe.html" target="_blank"><b>Zappi's</b></a> are my favorites for coffee, but Modern Art Oxford ain't bad. Accessed via St Ebbe's Street, MAO offers a fantastic family friendly cafe, complete with free Wi-Fi, daily newspapers, </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">highchairs and baby changing facilities</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">. Admission to the gallery is free and there are even </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.modernartoxford.org.uk/whats-on/modern-art-trolley-3/about/" target="_blank"><b>free art activities</b></a> every Saturday between 1-3pm. </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">(Tip: The basement is great for nursing mums). </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tK8Fg5K1ujs/UAU-GmqwKKI/AAAAAAAABgo/HqyxJGKbx18/s1600/KidsCafes_Story.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tK8Fg5K1ujs/UAU-GmqwKKI/AAAAAAAABgo/HqyxJGKbx18/s1600/KidsCafes_Story.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><b><a href="http://www.barefootbooks.com/uk/story/about_us/our_stores/" target="_blank">The Barefoot Books</a> - <span style="font-size: small;">Storyteller's Cafe</span></b><span style="font-size: small;"> (Summertown). Three words: Coolest place ever! </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">(Tip: Check out Barefoot Books website for a calendar of <a href="http://www.barefootbooks.com/calendar/" target="_blank"><b>daily events</b></a>). </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.gdcafe.com/website/index.php/Locations/CR/" target="_blank"><b>G&D's Ice Cream Cafe</b></a>
(Cowley). I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! As far as
babies and toddlers are concerned, this place is the bomb. There's loads
of room for buggies, a del- icious selection of bagels and brownies, and
baby changing facilities for mums AND dads. Order <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">a coffee if you must, but can you really resist G&D's famo</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">us <b>'</b></span><a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/oxford-blue-ice-cream.html#.UDxURkR1GH0" target="_blank"><u><b>Oxford Blue</b></u></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">'? </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">(Tip: If you need a highchair, just ask - they're hidden behind the counter). </span><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ev5k2LjaY-4/UAVAFgVJxXI/AAAAAAAABg4/H3_jdcBGBwI/s1600/KidsCafe_Jam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ev5k2LjaY-4/UAVAFgVJxXI/AAAAAAAABg4/H3_jdcBGBwI/s1600/KidsCafe_Jam.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><b><a href="http://www.thejamfactoryoxford.com/" target="_blank">The Jam Factory</a> </b>(City Centre). </span>
</span><span style="font-size: small;">Paddington
Bear would have loved this place, but <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/frank-coopers-oxford-vintage-marmalade.html" target="_blank"><b>Frank Cooper’s</b></a> famous Marmalade
Factory is no more. Today it is home to a spacious, uber-cool restaurant, gallery, cafe and bar. As you can see from the photo, it is VERY family friendly. Bonus: All the cakes are home-baked by the owner's mum! (mmmmm)</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bl4rYyulZcE/UAU-X55kUoI/AAAAAAAABgw/muMgNLa_1nM/s1600/KidsCafe_Ash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bl4rYyulZcE/UAU-X55kUoI/AAAAAAAABgw/muMgNLa_1nM/s1600/KidsCafe_Ash.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://ashmoleandiningroom.com/" target="_blank"><b>Ashmolean Dining Room</b></a> (City Centre). Sound formal? Don't worry, it's a piece of cake. Speaking of which, next time you and your little one/s are visiting the Ashmolean, plan your trip around after- noon tea, served daily (except Mondays) between 3-6pm on the roof top terrace. (Tip: The lift is tiny, so it's a bit tricky with buggies, but my friend Zoe assures me it is perfectly doable!)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">There's also another cafe in the basement. It's busier and noisier than The Dining Room, but as I am sure you are aware, this is not necessarily a bad thing! Bonus: Kiddy meals, high chairs and baby changing facilities are available at both cafes and entry to the museum is free.<b> </b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><b>That's all for now my poppets. Where do you and your little ones love to hang out? Come on, spill, who makes the best babychino in town? </b></span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-47249902531846413482012-07-06T14:04:00.000+01:002012-07-18T16:03:54.594+01:00Alice's Adventures in Wonderland<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">When Alice Pleasance Liddell, moved to Oxford in 1856, at just four years of age, I'm sure she had no idea of the adventure's that lay ahead of her. </span><span style="font-size: small;">As the fourth born child of Henry Liddell, the newly appointed
Dean (Head) of Christ Church, Alice was never short of company. Together with his
wife Lorina, Dean Liddell provided Alice with a total of nine siblings, but it
was the two sisters nearest to her in age, Lorina and Edith, with whom she was
closest.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8WPHTPEhLY8/T6D-U3Mux1I/AAAAAAAABDc/etrQlqoj3Uk/s1600/AliceLidell2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8WPHTPEhLY8/T6D-U3Mux1I/AAAAAAAABDc/etrQlqoj3Uk/s1600/AliceLidell2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;">Alice Pleasance Liddell, Summer 1858. Charles Dodgson. Photograph: National Portrait Gallery </span></div>
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</style><span style="font-size: small;"> With the Christ Church Deanery as their new home, the
girls undoubtedly had much to explore and were often found playing in the Deanery
garden. On one such occasion they stumbled upon a man taking photographs of the
Cathedral who introduced himself as Charles Dodgson,(otherwise known as Lewis Carroll). Alice's father shared an interest in this new art form, so it was not long
before Dodgson was invited to take the first of the many photographs of his
growing family, and of Alice in particular. </span><i><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></i></div>
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hJ4lPZM5_o/T6E6K_fMtKI/AAAAAAAABEA/8AHjA8uHpKk/s1600/Liddell+Sisters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hJ4lPZM5_o/T6E6K_fMtKI/AAAAAAAABEA/8AHjA8uHpKk/s1600/Liddell+Sisters.jpg" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;">From left to right: Edith, Lorina & Alice Liddell, circa 1859. Charles Dodgson. </span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">During the long process of sitting to have their photographs taken, Dodgson often told the children stories to keep them entertained. However, </span><span style="font-size: small;">Alice's real 'Adventures in
Wonderland' began on the 4<sup>th</sup> of July, 1862, as she rowed merrily along the Isis with her sisters Edith (age 8)</span><span style="font-size: small;"> and Lorina (age 13)</span><span style="font-size: small;">. </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Accompanied by their friends Mr Dodgson and
Rev. Duckworth, 10-year-old Alice asked Dodgson to entertain her and
her sisters with a story. As Rev. Duckworth
rowed the boat, Dodgson happily obliged, regaling the girls with stories of a
girl named Alice as they made their way from Folly Bridge to Godstow. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">(The <a href="http://www.oxfordrivercruises.com/mad-hatters-tea-party.php" target="_blank"><u>Oxford River Cruises</u></a> 'Mad Hatter's Tea Party' follows this very same route today).</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tskwhnAhz2s/T6Ka9s_x_1I/AAAAAAAABEU/u70L5WAKDCw/s1600/AliceDODO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tskwhnAhz2s/T6Ka9s_x_1I/AAAAAAAABEU/u70L5WAKDCw/s1600/AliceDODO.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="artdate">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Alice and the Dodo, by Sir John Tenniel,</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;"> 1865. Image: <a href="http://www.victorianweb.org/art/illustration/tenniel/alice/3.2.html" target="_blank">The Victorian Web </a></span><a href="http://www.victorianweb.org/art/illustration/tenniel/alice/3.2.html"><br /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<i><span style="font-size: small;">Although these stories were not unlike those that Dodgson had
spun for the sisters before, </span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: small;">this was the first occasion that Alice had begged him to write it down
for her. </span></i></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="medium" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<div style="color: #444444; margin: 0.1pt 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Those of you who know the story well, may now even be able to guess who inspired a few of the charters in Chapter 2, “The Pool
of Tears.” Any ideas who Duck, Lory, Eaglet and the Dodo might be? </span><span style="font-size: small;">None other than Rev. Robinson <b>Duck</b>worth,</span><span style="font-size: small;"> <b>Lori</b>na
Liddell, </span><span style="font-size: small;">Edith
Liddell and </span><span style="font-size: small;">Charles
<b>Dod</b>gs<b>o</b>n himself of course!</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
</div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-31669599025002368222012-07-05T09:58:00.000+01:002012-07-18T12:41:30.040+01:00Where has the summer gone?<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">This is the worst summer ever! No really, it's a fact. </span><span style="font-size: small;">According to a report I read this morning, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">last month was the wettest June since records began! Can it get any more depressing?</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bw8zOIrLlYs/T_U7UL8jyiI/AAAAAAAABZs/sNI-U2HW1es/s1600/0507WetWeather.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bw8zOIrLlYs/T_U7UL8jyiI/AAAAAAAABZs/sNI-U2HW1es/s1600/0507WetWeather.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Funnily enough, this year marks the 20th anniversary of the <a href="https://www.momastore.org/museum/moma/CategoryDisplay_10451_10001_26708_32161_-1_Y_Sky%20Umbrella%20Anniversary?cm_sp=Homepage-_-Panel%201-_-Sky%20Umbrella-_-Sky%20Umbrella%20Anniversary%2020120329" target="_blank"><u>Sky Umbrella</u></a>, designed by Tibor Kalman for the <a href="https://www.momastore.org/museum/moma/StoreCatalogDisplay_-1_10001_10451_?cm_mmc=MoMA-_-HP-_-Shop-_-NA"><u>New York Museum of Modern Art's Design Store</u></a>.
In celebration, MoMA is reaching out to reintroduce the umbrella to a
new generation of fans and they've certainly found one in me! </span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kvqKHe84kXg/T_VJCBSr5BI/AAAAAAAABaU/yYJdAOwsx4E/s1600/0507WetWeather2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kvqKHe84kXg/T_VJCBSr5BI/AAAAAAAABaU/yYJdAOwsx4E/s1600/0507WetWeather2.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span itemprop="description" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Top:</b> <a href="http://www.havaianas-store.co.uk/e_commerce/"><u>Havainas</u></a> in: Green, Blue Sky, Citrus Yellow. <b>Bottom:</b></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span itemprop="description" style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.hunter-boot.com/original-gloss/spring-green"><u>Hunter Original</u></a>'s in: </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Spring Green, Turquoise & Citrus</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span> <br />
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">In desperation to brighten up my dreary mood, I've even considered trading in my flip flops (thongs) for a pair of these brightly coloured wellies (gumboots). It's hard to ignore the similarities in Hunter's 'summer' colour palette, but does anyone really buy them at this time of year? </span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-17177054228615773312012-06-27T16:46:00.000+01:002012-07-19T09:04:29.843+01:00Port Meadow<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Aside from its
fabulous location and lively personality, Port
Meadow is undoubtedly </span><span lang="EN-US">one of Jericho’s greatest draw cards.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 150%;">I
felt a little like Lucy in The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, slipping
through the magical closet to discover Narnia the first time I visited. </span>
</span><style>
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</style><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"> It really is like stepping into
another world, and a very unexpected one so close to the city. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">I must admit that after moving to Oxford, it took me several months to discover Port Meadow, but why no one ever mentioned it has me baffled - This is one little treasure too good not to share! </span></span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XlTsaBeE_fs/T-n_XvPjLoI/AAAAAAAABTw/LSHUr57KVts/s1600/PortMeadow5.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XlTsaBeE_fs/T-n_XvPjLoI/AAAAAAAABTw/LSHUr57KVts/s1600/PortMeadow5.jpg" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Accessed from
Walton Well Road, Aristotle Lane or via the tow path, <i>Port Meadow</i> is the largest area of common land in Oxford and
consumes a staggering 440 acres. With its green grass and wild flowers
stretching as far as the eye can see it has been home to grazing horses, cattle
and geese for centuries.</span> </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: #999999;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hj-RVZA_l0/T-sod6ksLZI/AAAAAAAABUk/Zoo2d_YDx8w/s1600/PortMeadow2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hj-RVZA_l0/T-sod6ksLZI/AAAAAAAABUk/Zoo2d_YDx8w/s1600/PortMeadow2.jpg" /></a></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Port Meadow is a fantastic place for a picnic, to fly a
kite, or to walk, talk and enjoy a romantic afternoon in the sun, but leave
before sunset and you’ll have missed it at </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>its best.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cItZCNJNLs4/T-somWxdEPI/AAAAAAAABUs/UGsOOg4V5tA/s1600/PortMeadow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cItZCNJNLs4/T-somWxdEPI/AAAAAAAABUs/UGsOOg4V5tA/s1600/PortMeadow1.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Spring is another
particularly special time to visit when all the new foals and calves are born
and </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">vast areas of the meadow are carpeted with buttercups. </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Through autumn and
winter much of the Meadow is flooded, bringing flocks of migratory birds and
nature enthusiasts as well as the odd ice skater or two! </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qkpBpWA5pMI/T-so5A5uKbI/AAAAAAAABU0/A-9pSarSPxg/s1600/PortMeadow6.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qkpBpWA5pMI/T-so5A5uKbI/AAAAAAAABU0/A-9pSarSPxg/s1600/PortMeadow6.jpg" /></a></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"> There are lots of
gravel paths with which to explore the meadow, but they are nowhere near as fun
as sloshing about in your Wellies (gumboots), which I highly recommend. A fifty
minute stroll along the banks of the River Thames, (which flows through the
meadow) will even take you past the ruins of <i>Godstow
Abbey</i> to Wolvercote, a small village in the north of Oxford.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tL813Io01-8/T-sp96friHI/AAAAAAAABU8/onIFxBUR8Gc/s1600/PortMeadow30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tL813Io01-8/T-sp96friHI/AAAAAAAABU8/onIFxBUR8Gc/s1600/PortMeadow30.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Here you can
reward your hard work with a pint on the terrace at one of Oxford’s most famous
pubs, <i>The Trout.</i> <i>The Perch Inn</i>, is a worthy stopping point along the way, (famous
for its association with Alice in Wonderland and its yummy French food.) But
you’ll have to find it first - It’s a true hidden gem. Follow the signs down
the winding garden path littered with fairy lights to find their enchanting
beer garden.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"> </span><i><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></i></span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: #999999;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">Aside from The Perch Inn, Binsey's most noted feature is the </span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 115%; text-decoration: none;">parish church</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"> of </span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 115%; text-decoration: none;">St Margaret</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">. This Grade 1 Listed building dates back to
the 12th century and is most famous for its Well, which was the inspiration for
</span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 115%; text-decoration: none;">Lewis Carroll</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">'s, "Treacle Well" from in </span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="line-height: 115%; text-decoration: none;">Alice in Wonderland</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">. </span></i></span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-13277482005862783792012-06-26T16:37:00.002+01:002012-07-18T12:42:56.666+01:00Introducing The Oxford Fresher's NEW aStore!<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Hello boys and girls! This is just a quick note to let you know that I’ve recently created an <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21" target="_blank"><u>Amazon Associates Store</u></a>.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> Nothing much to fuss about, but every once in a
while, I receive emails from readers asking me to recommend various travel and Oxford related products, so I thought it might be useful to have a
list of all the things I love in one place for your perusal.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">For easy access, I’ve also added a snazzy new, circular 'a' button to the header which will take you directly to <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21" target="_blank"><u>the store</u></a>. So head on over, take a look, and maybe you’ll see something you like!</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
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<span style="font-size: small;">There are currently nine categories in my little shop which include: <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21?_encoding=UTF8&node=3"><u>Travel Essentials</u></a>, <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21?_encoding=UTF8&node=11" target="_blank"><u>Travel Electronics</u></a>, <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21?_encoding=UTF8&node=10"><u>Travelling with Children</u></a> (including everything from inflight entertainment to baby slings and </span><span style="font-size: small;">Trunki the Trunkisaurous!), <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21?_encoding=UTF8&node=4" target="_blank"><u>Out of the Blue</u></a> (books by or about famous Oxonians),<a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21?_encoding=UTF8&node=8" target="_blank"><u> Movies & Dramas</u></a> (filmed in and around Oxford), <u><a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21?_encoding=UTF8&node=2" target="_blank">Wonderland</a></u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> (Oxford inspired books and DVDs for little ones), <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21?_encoding=UTF8&node=5" target="_blank"><u>Cycling & Driving</u></a></span><span style="font-size: small;">, </span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21?node=7&page=1"><u>The Best of British</u></a>, and a <a href="http://astore.amazon.co.uk/tof01-21?_encoding=UTF8&node=12" target="_blank"><u>Miscellaneous</u></a> category containing everything I simply couldn't leave out! </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Here are a selection of products from my Travel Essentials page:</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wif75t112Rs/T-mvLE87_HI/AAAAAAAABSk/nncwAa2Ydto/s1600/Travel+essentials.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wif75t112Rs/T-mvLE87_HI/AAAAAAAABSk/nncwAa2Ydto/s1600/Travel+essentials.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1. <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00165TAVS/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B00165TAVS">Sony MDR-NC500 Digital Noise Cancelling Headphones</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2. <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000O1DJF8/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B000O1DJF8">Inflatable Neck Pillow</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">3. <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000P0FIUM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B000P0FIUM">Travel Adaptor Plug: Worldwide / European Visitor To Uk</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">4. <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004QKVP2C/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B004QKVP2C">Antler Liquis Cabin Case - Navy</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">5. <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B005QDXV1G/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B005QDXV1G">Airline Approved Onboard Toiletry Bag 4 Bottle & Funnel Set</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">6. </span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002FV0VAG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B002FV0VAG">Cabin Max Digital Portable Travel Luggage Scale</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">7. <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000VY3GR4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B000VY3GR4">Go Travel Case Tidy Bag Packers - 3 Pack</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b>Disclaimer:</b> I have <b><u>not</u></b> been paid or received any sort of compensation for placing any of these products on my store or blog page.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> I do however receive a small commission, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">(4-6%)</span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> </span><b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">on all products purchased from my Amazon aStore.</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>You might also like:</b></span></span><b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/getting-most-out-of-your-luggage.html" target="_blank"><u>Getting the most out of your luggage</u></a>, <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/p/oxford-freshers-relocation-guides.html" target="_blank"><u>The Oxford Fresher's Relocation Guides</u></a>, <a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/uk-power-adaptors.html" target="_blank"><u>UK power adaptors.</u></a></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b></b></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-8281583105928091212012-06-20T15:01:00.001+01:002012-07-18T23:16:02.288+01:00Aung San Suu Kyi visits Oxford<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
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<span style="font-size: small;">This morning, hundreds of people lined Catte Street to welcome Aung San Suu Kyi back to Oxford as she made her way to the Sheldonian Theatre to partake in Oxford's annual <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/encaenia.html"><u>Encaenia Ceremony</u></a>. After years of isolation, her visit today was of particular significance as she was finally able to receive the honorary doctorate awarded to her in 1993, while under house arrest in Yangon. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Lyye-o25lc/T-G5yC6lY9I/AAAAAAAABRU/wS_Il4Df6jE/s1600/2006+AnnSung.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Lyye-o25lc/T-G5yC6lY9I/AAAAAAAABRU/wS_Il4Df6jE/s1600/2006+AnnSung.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Today, Aung San Suu Kyi was awarded an advanced degree in civil law during Oxford's annual Encaenia ceremony.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Aung San Suu Kyi studied politics, philosophy and economics at St Hugh's and later lived in Park Town, north Oxford.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AyIqhcz8MKM/T-G-j_rh13I/AAAAAAAABRs/nuZuw0Psvio/s1600/2006+Encaenia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AyIqhcz8MKM/T-G-j_rh13I/AAAAAAAABRs/nuZuw0Psvio/s1600/2006+Encaenia.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Chancellor of Oxford Universty, the Rt Hon Lord Patten of Barnes.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yXzlhsMs5Kc/T-HCy6QWqUI/AAAAAAAABR8/sEuEn_Wbzco/s1600/2006+Encaenia2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yXzlhsMs5Kc/T-HCy6QWqUI/AAAAAAAABR8/sEuEn_Wbzco/s1600/2006+Encaenia2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;">Seven
leading figures from the worlds of science, the arts, intelligence and
business were also honored in this year's ceremony. For more information, check out the Univerity of Oxford <a href="http://www.ox.ac.uk/media/news_stories/2012/120119.html"><u>website</u></a>. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yXzlhsMs5Kc/T-HCy6QWqUI/AAAAAAAABR8/sEuEn_Wbzco/s1600/2006+Encaenia2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-25197601618144762012-06-18T09:00:00.000+01:002012-07-18T10:43:31.867+01:00Encaenia Procession & Ceremony<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Encaenia, (pronounced en-scene-ya), is the ceremony at which the
University of Oxford awards honorary degrees to distinguished men and
women and commemorates its benefactors. The ceremony takes place at The Sheldonian Theatre and is held annually on the Wednesday of ninth week during
Trinity Term.</span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="309" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/v2wmEOOCHcU" width="550"></iframe><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Encaenia is depicted in the Morse episode, 'Twilight of the Gods', above. (</span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Track forward to 2:25). </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">This year's ceremony will take place on Wednesday the 20th of June. Whilst </span><span style="font-size: small;">the ceremony </span><span style="font-size: small;">itself is restricted to university dignitaries and
special guests, the procession to and from the Sheldonian Theatre should not be missed!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Start</b>: 10:30am - Exeter College, Brasenose Lane, Oxford </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Finish</b>: 11:30am - Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street, Oxford </span></div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-82693569121983579382012-06-06T09:00:00.000+01:002012-07-18T12:13:56.294+01:00Let the trashing begin!<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I</span><span style="font-size: small;">f you happen to be hit with a handful of glitter in the cobbled back alleys of Oxford this month, congratulations, you've just been trashed.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> In
Oxford, 'trashing' refers to the tradition of throwing flour, eggs, confetti and other such substances over one's classmates when they finish their final exams. (But don't worry, only those wearing <a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/oxford-examination-carnations.html" target="_blank"><u>red carnations</u></a>, need be concerned). </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ihXTX7PRZnE/T8sZeI1pdrI/AAAAAAAABQw/y3IMJ3QXRwY/s1600/Trashing1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ihXTX7PRZnE/T8sZeI1pdrI/AAAAAAAABQw/y3IMJ3QXRwY/s1600/Trashing1.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: x-small;">Photos by: (left) <a href="http://asymptotically.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank"><u>Malin Hu</u></a>, Pembroke College 2010, (right) <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1953643523" target="_blank"><u>Becca Hayes</u></a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Sadly, following a spate of complaints from locals (and some extraordinarily rowdy behaviour), the University fun police have issued a new code of conduct reminding students that "a minimum fine of
£80 could be incurred if students use water-pistols, or throw anything including champagne, glitter and confetti." </span><span style="font-size: small;">Nevertheless, tradition dies hard - so think twice before ducking down the alleyways this month, you're bound to uncover a trashing! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/oxford-examination-carnations.html" target="_blank"></a></span><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-1623733660261941252012-06-01T10:00:00.000+01:002012-07-22T15:23:17.656+01:00Diamond Jubilee Celebrations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;">Looking for somewhere to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in Oxford this weekend? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Here's a very brief list of what's going on where:</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Oxfringe Jubilee Weekend</b> Oxford Castle, Sunday 3rd June, 12 - 5.30 pm <b> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>The Jubilee East Oxford Street Party </b>Magdalen Road, Sunday 3rd June, 12 – 6pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Jericho Jubilee Street Fair</b> Canal & Cardigan Street, Monday 4th June, 12 – 6pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b></b>For further details and a full list of events, check out the <a href="http://www.oxfordcityguide.com/ee2/index.php?/OCG_spotlight/article/queens_diamond_jubilee_oxford_events/" target="_blank"><u>Oxford City Guide</u></a>. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IxlSvt7QKqs/T8j1Q_DVQRI/AAAAAAAABQQ/9-c3CnmhBoU/s1600/liz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IxlSvt7QKqs/T8j1Q_DVQRI/AAAAAAAABQQ/9-c3CnmhBoU/s1600/liz.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A joyful proclamation of queenly support - by <a href="http://twistedtwee.co.uk/i-love-liz-jubilee-edition--p-650.html" target="_blank"><u>Twisted Twee</u></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">In keeping with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations this weekend I thought I'd share a few </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">of my favourite British treats... What do you love most about being an expat in Britain? I'm certainly feeling the love for the Queen this weekend; bring on the four-day weekend!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SduPlfOqI-4/T8jNma42zUI/AAAAAAAABOs/Dk18Dwhq61A/s1600/sponge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SduPlfOqI-4/T8jNma42zUI/AAAAAAAABOs/Dk18Dwhq61A/s1600/sponge.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://allaboutyou.com/prima/Jubilee-sandwich-cake-recipe" target="_blank"><u>Jubilee sandwich cake</u></a> - A twist on the classic Victoria Sponge.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The Victoria Sponge</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">If you're planning a Jubilee themed party this weekend, how could you resist this cheeky twist on </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">the classic Victoria sponge? Whilst traditionally speaking, a Victoria Sponge would never be iced </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">or decorated like the one pictured here, I'm sure Queen Victoria would let it slide just this once... Sponge cake was her favourite after all. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><i><span style="color: #999999;">A typical Victoria sponge consists of raspberry jam and whipped cream sandwiched </span></i></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><i><span style="color: #999999;">between two sponge cakes, finished with a light sprinkling of icing sugar.</span></i> </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span class="summary"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xk5WikO46OE/T8jO3Q13AeI/AAAAAAAABO0/t6k4qv7X-n8/s1600/Pimms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xk5WikO46OE/T8jO3Q13AeI/AAAAAAAABO0/t6k4qv7X-n8/s1600/Pimms.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Pimm's - the </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">quintessential summer tipple.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pimm's </b><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">This classic British beverage is almost as much a tradition as the cup of tea,
and during the summer months, the British down it by the gallon. Those of you who read my post entitled, '<a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/its-pimms-oclock.html" target="_blank"><u>It's Pimm's O'clock</u></a>' way back in March, will also know that I am quite partial to Pimm's advertising campaign. It's oh so refreshing and fabulously fruity; <a href="http://theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/its-pimms-oclock.html" target="_blank"><u>take a look for yourself</u></a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Elderflower </b><b>Pressé</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Another of my new found favourites is elderflower cordial. Mix this with some soda water, fresh lime and lemon juice and a little bit of mint and you'll have an elderflower </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444;">pressé.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> <a href="http://www.oldparsonage-hotel.co.uk/" target="_blank"><u>The Old Parsonage</u></a> on Banbury Rd also make a delicious cocktail called an 'Elderflower Collins', which I highly recommend.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KnFbniPL0hs/T8jSs534U1I/AAAAAAAABPM/2uOstU_x3zc/s1600/scones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KnFbniPL0hs/T8jSs534U1I/AAAAAAAABPM/2uOstU_x3zc/s1600/scones.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Scones</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">There's nothing quite like a homemade scone fresh from the oven, but mastering this simple tea-time treat is harder than </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">seems. I'm told that the secret to a perfect scone is all in the butter, (which should always be at room temperature and rubbed quickly into the flour),</span><span style="font-size: small;"> but mine always pale in comparison to my Nan's. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Topped with</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="bod"> jam and cream, (which is always clotted in the UK), Ruby's</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="bod"> scones were always crisp and golden on the outside and delicately light inside - Scrummy scone perfection.</span> (A British blend of <span class="None mention-None">scrumptious</span> and <span class="None mention-None">yummy).</span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Clotted Cream</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Thick, rich and indulgent with the consistency of soft butter, this sweet yellow cream is an essential ingredient to all cream teas and is traditionally made
in Devon and Cornwall. </span><span style="font-size: small;">It has a very high fat content, (at least 55-65 %, which
in the United States would be Classified as butter) and is often topped
with a deep yellow crust. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Truth be told, I prefer double whipped cream with my scones, but these sorts of opinions are best kept to oneself when taking tea in Britain. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cHwgfnWvRHY/T8jQSGGeNrI/AAAAAAAABO8/ZrBFwhlOnlI/s1600/summer+pud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cHwgfnWvRHY/T8jQSGGeNrI/AAAAAAAABO8/ZrBFwhlOnlI/s1600/summer+pud.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Summer Pudding recipe from Peyton & <span style="color: #444444;">Byrne - </span><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0224086618/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=tof01-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=0224086618" style="color: #444444;"><u>British Baking</u></a></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Summer Pudding</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">I still can't quite get my head around why all desserts are called 'puddings' in the UK, but at least this one fits the bill. Summer pudding is deliciously moist and made of sliced white bread, (preferably stale), which is layered in a deep bowl and then packed with juicy summer berries. </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">It's much easier than it looks! You just </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">leave it to soak overnight and then turn it out onto a plate</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> before serving. </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0p1168lHk9U/T8jc9z-HzOI/AAAAAAAABP4/blnzY32CS8k/s1600/Jubilee5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0p1168lHk9U/T8jc9z-HzOI/AAAAAAAABP4/blnzY32CS8k/s1600/Jubilee5.jpg" /></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b>Cuppa tea time</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Nothing is considered as quintessentially English as a good old cup of tea and I fear the whole nation would come to a stand still without it. Each year the average person consumes 2.5kgs of the stuff, contributing to Britain's long running title as the largest per-capita tea consumer in the world. </span><span style="font-size: small;">With all the 'tea breaks' going round I'm not in the least bit surprised!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Everyone has an opinion on how to make a ‘proper’ cup of tea, but I've never taken this as anything more than a bit of British banter. Boy was I wrong. Preparing tea in this country is a very serious matter! Did you know that scientists</span><span style="font-size: small;"> recently discovered 'that </span><span style="font-size: small;">the key to the best tasting brew is to let it
sit for six minutes?' </span><span style="font-size: small;">I had to laugh. </span><span style="font-size: small;">(</span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/science-news/8577637/How-to-make-the-perfect-cup-of-tea-be-patient.html" target="_blank"><u>Telegraph</u></a></span><span style="font-size: small;">, </span><span style="font-size: small;">Sat 02 June 2012).</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034666331503667540.post-74311575446076952172012-05-31T14:08:00.000+01:002012-07-19T23:00:14.730+01:00Oxford Examination Carnations<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Traditions, traditions, Oxford is full of them, but the examination carnations are definitely one of my favorites. Whilst by Oxford standards they are a relatively new tradition, (thought to have originated in the late 1990s),</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">carnations are worn during exam time to signify how far along each student is with their exams.</span> <span style="font-size: small;"> White carnations are worn for
the first exam, red carnations for the last and pink
carnations for all the exams in between. </span> <span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I19ZE-A9aA0/T8clOIW0U6I/AAAAAAAABNo/51cm8znNS1k/s1600/Exam+Carnation.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I19ZE-A9aA0/T8clOIW0U6I/AAAAAAAABNo/51cm8znNS1k/s1600/Exam+Carnation.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> <i style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #999999;">One
suggested reason for this tradition is that students used to place a white carnation in their </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #999999;">red ink-pots between exams,
so by the last exam it was completely red.</span></i></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><i><span style="color: #999999;"> </span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Unlike the strict academic dress called <a href="http://www.theoxfordfresher.blogspot.co.uk/2011/10/oxford-matriculation-ceremony.html"><u>sub fusc</u></a>, which all students must wear to exams, (another weird and wonderful tradition), carnations are not compulsory, but tradition also states that </span><span style="font-size: small;">students must be</span><span style="font-size: small;"> <b>given</b> the flowers by someone else. Whatever the</span><span style="font-size: small;"> reason, I hope that this is one tradition that is here to stay - It</span><span style="font-size: small;"> is so nice to see people all around town buying each other flowers, wishing strangers luck and congratulating </span><span style="font-size: small;">those wearing red. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Where to purchase your carnations</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">The florists in Oxford sell out extremely quickly during exam time and the price per stem seems to go up every day! Try 'The Garden' or 'Jemini' at the Oxford Covered Market or if you're super organised, (or just plain lazy) you can order online at '</span><a href="http://www.oxfordcarnations.co.uk/index.htm"><u><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Oxford Carnations</span></u></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">,' and have them delivered to your pigeon hole. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Photo: JCM Photos</i></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2