Eva Wu, G9 吴佳瑞 My mother and I spent the past Christmas in the U.K., a trip that beautifully blended history, architecture, and natural wonder. I’d like to share our experience through three aspects: humanities, architecture, and scenery. Humanities Our exploration began with Cambridge University, an institution renowned for over 800 years of scholarly excellence. It is the birthplace of foundational scientific theories and the alma mater of luminaries such as Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin. Beyond its academic prestige, Cambridge is set within a picturesque landscape, gently bordered by the serene River Cam. We also visited the historic University of Oxford, home to the Bodleian Library — one of the world’s oldest and largest — and the Ashmolean Museum, the globe’s first university museum. Architecture British architecture reveals a rich tapestry of styles, each reflecting its era. Gothic architecture, though originating in France, flourished in medieval England, distinguished by its towering spires, expansive windows, and brilliant stained glass. Later, during the 18th-century Industrial Revolution, a new aesthetic emerged: Georgian architecture. Inspired by Baroque and classical forms, this style emphasized balance, symmetry, and proportion. The city of Bath hosts some of the finest preserved examples, with the majestic Royal Crescent standing as an iconic representation of Georgian elegance. Scenery The U.K.’s landscapes and landmarks left us in constant admiration. In London, we marveled at Big Ben, an iconic symbol of British culture housed within the Palace of Westminster — a UNESCO World Heritage site. Beyond the city, we visited the stunning Seven Sisters Cliffs, a celebrated natural landmark on the southern coast. Named for their seven distinct chalk cliffs standing side by side like close sisters, they are often called the “coastal calling card” of southern England. This Christmas journey through England was truly enchanting, allowing us to fully appreciate its remarkable charm and layered beauty. | 