Taking advantage of the opportunity, I set aside some time before and after the conference to plan a short trip. First, I enjoyed a stroll through the historic industrial city of Manchester, then wandered the cobbled streets of York, where the medieval atmosphere remains vividly alive. To conclude the journey, I visited Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, enjoying its hilltop castle and mist-shrouded streets. In this way, I was able to explore three uniquely charming cities in between conference sessions.

Manchester: The Cradle of the Industrial Revolution

Upon arriving in Manchester, I was greeted by red-brick buildings that speak to its industrial past. Once a hub of the Industrial Revolution, the city has now transformed into a vibrant center of music, art, and café culture, making every walk through its streets exciting. Amid the mix of historic architecture and modern cityscapes, the locals’ love for football is palpable, adding another layer to the city’s multifaceted charm.

York: A Medieval City Full of History

Stepping into York feels like traveling back in time. Walking along its cobbled streets and looking up, the magnificent York Minster dominates the skyline, and traces of the medieval era are everywhere. A stroll along the city walls makes the entire city feel like the stage of a historical tale, drawing you in again and again with its enchanting, timeless allure.

Edinburgh: Hilltop Castles and Misty Streets

In Edinburgh, the imposing castle overlooking the city immediately captures your attention. On misty days, it feels as if you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The combination of stone buildings in the Old Town and the surrounding green hills creates a scenery that never grows tiresome. Walking through narrow lanes imbued with the scents of literature and music, you can truly feel the city’s charm—a gentle embrace of history, nature, and culture.