GB Mag 2012 UK edition

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ISSUE FOUR

GBMag

l IS SU E FOU R

THE MAGAZINE FOR INTERNATIONAL & EU STUDENTS

THE SOUND OF

SUCCESS Music students Kyra Santiago and Wenhong Luo on making it in the UK

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TOP BRIT FILMS & ALBUMS Who’s made the cut?

w w w. G r e a t B r i t i s h M a g . c o. u k

COSMOPOLITANS Cool student street style

Plus: SURVIVAL TIPS FOR FRESHERS’ WEEK

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GB Mag Editor’s letter

Editors” letter

Welcome to the United Kingdom and your new life as a student. I expect you’re excited and apprehensive in equal measures, but don’t worry: the GB Mag is here to help and be a friend.

In this issue we introduce you to some cool international students who have made the UK their home and have some great advice to share on making the most of your time here, including Kyra Santiago, our cover girl, who studied commercial music at the University of Westminster (page 26).

For the fashionistas amongst you, check out what other cool students are wearing in our street style feature (page 17).

This issue is also packed with articles on food, music, films and for your amusement there is an introduction to British slang (page 38) which will get you talking like a true Brit in no time!

To be honest, we couldn’t possibly get all the articles we’d love to share with you into our cute little magazine, so to find much more of the same, head online and find us at www.greatbritishmag.co.uk.

The website is packed with articles and videos to inspire and help you make the most of your new life in the UK. So that you don’t miss any of our great content and chat be sure to subscribe to one of our social media channels, including: @GreatBritishMag .com/greatbritishmag and @英伦GBMag

Meet the team Editor Richard Jinman Art director Nick O’Toole Contributing writers Rob Stares Elizabeth Khor Mary Oluwawo Radhika Popat Advertising and sales Wahida Ashiq Circulation manager Sophie Dallison

To advertise in the GB Mag or to receive the GB Bag at your university call 020 7935 9312 or email info@greatbritishmag.co.uk Address: GB Magazine, 134-146 Curtain Road, Unit 304, Curtain House, London EC2A 3AR

@GreatBritishMag Have fun! Richard

Copyright © 2012 by the GB Mag. This publication may not be transmitted in any form in whole or part without the prior permission of the GB Mag. While every effort is made to ensure the information in this magazine is correct, the GB Mag cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein or any consequences arising from it. The GB Mag holds no responsibility for prizes and giveaways offered by brands.

If you have been made to pay for this publication please email us at info@greatbritishmagazine.co.uk 5

GB Mag Contents

Contents The sound of success page 26

Kyra Santiago and Wenhong Luo play very different music. Kyra is a singer-songwriter; Wenhong is an accomplished viola player.

What they have in common is a British education: Kyra recently graduated with a degree in Commercial Music from the University of Westminster, Wenhong is starting her third year at The Royal Academy of Music. GB Mag chatted to them about music, moving to a new country and making the most of your time in the UK.

Freshers’ Week page 10

Starting at a new university can be daunting. Check out our Freshers’ Week survival guide and make sure you make all the right moves.

10 ways to know you’re a student page 40

Got an empty fridge and an addiction to coffee? Yep, sounds like you’re a student.

6

GB Mag Contents

Cosmopolitans

page 17

You don’t have to look too hard to find cool student fashion in the UK. GB Mag photographer Sofia Crespo discovered it outside her front door!

Ask a Brit page 36

Why do Brits buy alcohol at a store called an Off Licence? Our resident expert answers all your tricky questions.

A question of style page 20 Let’s face it: the UK is the home of hot design. We talk to leading interior designer and hotelier David Carter about the ingredients of British style.

Student survival tips pages 13-15

Shop ’till you drop pages 30-31

Best British Albums & Films pages 22-23

British Food Bites! pages 32-33

Bonfire Night pages 24-25

Talk the Talk page 38 The Final Word page 42 7

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GB Mag Off to a flying start

Off to a flying start It’s known as Freshers’ Week, Orientation Week or Welcome Week. Regardless of what you call it, the period at the start of the academic year when nervous new students are introduced to their university and each other can be a bit scary. It can be even scarier if you’re an international student who is a long way from home and struggling to adapt to a new language and culture.

But don’t despair! Freshers’ Week is also loads of fun. You may meet people who will become friends for life and you’ll never have a better opportunity to party. So, read our survival guide and you’ll soon be having the time of your life!

We asked Laura Braslins, the international officer in the Support Services Team at the University of Nottingham, to give us her top tips for enjoying Freshers’ Week. This is what she suggests.

Tips and advice to students when they arrive: Take care of the practical stuff – set up a UK bank account, get registered with the National Health Service (NHS), take care of any immigrationrelated tasks like registering with the police and attend university registration and inductions for your course.

Taking care of the practical things first will make you feel more settled and prepared for your course so that you can enjoy the fun stuff going on.

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Get out there – join some societies and sports teams, start volunteering and attend events – especially during your Freshers or Welcome Week. This will get you involved in your university community and help you to make connections and meet like-minded people.

Take care of yourself – it’s easy to become overwhelmed with all the changes and information that’s being thrown

Bia Tessari, 29, from Brazil Studying: International Relations

My Freshers’ Week tips?

Talk, talk, talk.

And get as many flyers as you can.

”

Bia

GB Mag Off to a flying start

at you. Make sure you make time for yourself to adjust and recognise if you are feeling stressed or anxious. It’s also completely normal if you’re feeling homesick and missing your family or friends. Creating a routine for yourself, getting enough sleep and making new friends will all help to ease this.

And try not to worry – everyone is going through the same thing!

Use your common sense – feeling a little vulnerable in an unfamiliar place is completely normal. While you’re adjusting to your surroundings, make sure you use your common sense and think things through. Don’t flash large amounts of money about at a cash point or leave your iPhone on a park bench. Walk home with a group of friends and know who to contact in an emergency.

Most common mistakes made: Going overboard – it’s very easy to get swept up in the excitement and do something you’ll regret later. Know your limits and stick to them – you’ll be happy you did in the morning.

Overspending – the money you have for living expenses may feel like it’s burning a hole in your pocket, but be wise, create a budget and stick to it.

Students often find themselves in financial difficulties because they’ve overspent during Freshers Week. Be aware that gambling is legal in the UK but can be addictive!

Skipping inductions – attending inductions and

introductory lectures for your course is the best way to start your course off the right way.

Students who choose to skip these always regret it later.

Neglecting the basics – make sure you get enough sleep and remember to eat! Creating a good routine for yourself at the start of your stay in the UK will help you in the long run and through stressful periods.

Not contacting home – universities all over the UK will be receiving phone calls from worried parents because a student hasn’t thought to call home. Save your parents the grief and let them know you are OK!

For more useful tips to starting your life in the UK and Bia, Pinitha and Emma’s video tips go to www.greatbritishmag.co.uk

Pinitha Pinitha Perera, 24, from Sri Lanka Studying: Biomedical Science

I had no idea there was an international students’ party.

”

Emma Emma Cippitelli, 23, from Italy Studying: Psychology

Join societies and simply get involved!

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The iconic Highlands of Scotland will be dramatically brought to the big screen in the UK this August with the release of Disney • Pixar’s BRAVE Inspired by the landscapes of Scotland, Disney • Pixar’s BRAVE will include images of the rolling heather clad hills and imposing peaks of the Scottish Highlands. The idyllic lochs of Scotland will come to life in shimmering hues of blue and green, and the shadowy forest glens and the myths of Scotland’s standing stones will be replicated in stunning animation never before seen on the big screen.

Why not include some Disney • Pixar’s BRAVE inspired activity in a visit to Scotland…

• Give archery a try Beecraigs Country Park, Linlithgow Laggan Outdoor Activity Centre, Dumfries and Galloway • Enjoy horse riding Corrylair Trekking Centre, Huntly Argyll Adventure, Inverary

Horse-riding at Loch Laich, Argyll and Bute

• Cheer at the tug of war at a Highland Games The Braemar Highland Gathering, Braemar • Be the King of the Castle Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven Eilean Donan Castle, Dornie, by Kyle of Lochalsh • Explore the myths and legends of some of Scotland’s standing stones Callanish, Isle of Lewis Ring of Brodgar, Orkney

The Callanish stone, Isle of Lewis

For further information on Brave and travel ideas inspired by Disney • Pixar’s BRAVE, or to enter our competition to win an exclusive money-can’t-buy 5 night stay in Scotland visit www.visitscotland.com/brave Scotland’s incredible influence on the world has encouraged invention, inspired creativity and fired imaginations for generations. Immerse yourself in Scotland’s arts and culture during 2012 as the country celebrates its creative contributions to the world during the Year of Creative Scotland.

To find out more about what you can see and do in the year of creative, visit: www.visitscotland.com/creative

The Enchanted Forest - a sound and light show, Faskally Wood, near Pitlochry

GB Mag Student survival tips

We understand you’re new to the country and to your university as well.

You’re probably feeling many things at the moment – excitement, fear, happiness, confusion – the list goes on! So, to help you settle into your new home we’ve spoken to loads of international & EU students who’ve been here for a while and asked them for some tips and advice. After all, they’ve been where you are and got the T-shirt to prove it!

Our favourite tip Ivy Zhu China University: University of Leicester Name:

Country:

Top tip: You’ve probably noticed that the Brits have two taps, one for hot and one for cold – which can get quite annoying. Either the water is freezing cold or boiling hot! So I did a bit of DIY and created my own tap so the water would be just right.

Sarah Belabbes Morocco Caledonian University University: Glasgow e Remember British cars hav Top tip: d han t righ the the steering wheel on realise this when side of the car. I came to friend’s car and I opened the door of my e only to realise sat on the right hand sid er! that I’d become the driv

Name: Country:

Name: Countr y: Univers ity: Top tip :

Olga Iva nski Russia Aston U niversit y W h e n drinkin pub, rem g at the ember y ou can for a ha always lf pint if go you don drink to ’t want o much to !

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GB Mag Student survival tips

Adele Herz Germany l of Liverpoo University as h ! The UK Go explore k ic p: u ti q p To ts with aller airpor ts ar p er h loads of sm ot s to connection and cheap . and the UK of Europe

Name: Country: University:

Ravi Punj India Coventry University rsity: Unive If you live in a shared flat and you do Top tip: ld all order ry your groce shopping online, you shou kets offer rmar your stuff together because some supe money. save to way great a free delivery over £50 - it’s

Name: Country:

Junfei Zhang China University: University of Manchester If there are no rooms available within Top tip: your university halls of residence, you can find an agent to help you find a house or an apartment

Name:

Country:

outside the campus.

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Michelle Yuxy China University of W estminster Top tip: Listen to the tra in driver’s announ take the London cements when Underground. Th you ere are actually announcements. lots of amusing Also try to avoi d the carriages train because th at both ends of e doors don't al the ways open at ev ery station.

Long Lam The Netherlands University: Impe rial College London Top tip 1: Whe n on escalators sta nd on the right hand sid e if you don’t want to walk up them. Th e left hand side is reserved for people who are in a rush.

Top tip 2: Alwa ys take your student ID when shopping as a lot of stores offer student disco unts.

Name: Country: University:

Name: Country:

GB Mag Student survival tips

Elizabeth Khor Malaysia University: University of Westminster Chances are you’ll be asked for money Top tip: at some time during your stay in the UK. The request will usually come with an excuse such as “I need a ticket for the train,” or “I’ve locked myself out of the house.” It’s OK to give them some loose change, but be aware the excuses are almost always made up.

Name:

Country:

Name: Country: University:

Name: Countr y: Univers ity:

Maarten Grevink The Ne therland s Univers ity o Southam f pton Top tip : Always seat on g iv e up yo the bus ur or train people to old or pregn a n t feel goo women. d and g You’ll et admir from the ing glan rest of th ces e passe ngers!

Sophie Powroziewicz France Reading University

Top tip: The UK has masses of secondhand cloth es shops where you can pick up all sorts of bargains.

Wear them with pride: vintage is a hot look in the UK!

Have you got an amazing tip that you want to share?

Drop us a line at info@greatbritishmag.co.uk or post it on our Facebook page (Facebook.com/GreatBritishMag).

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COSMOPOLITANS

GB Mag Cosmopolitans

You don’t have to look too hard for cutting-edge fashion in the UK: Sofia Crespo found it outside her front door.

Sofia, a 21-year old student from Buenos Aires, was living near Brick Lane in East London when she began shooting pictures for GB Mag’s Cosmopolitan, a street style section featuring some of the UK’s best dressed international students.

documentary and street photography, but also admires “artistic fashion photography”.

“It was easy – I just stepped out the front door and they were in front of me,” says Sofia. “It was nice to have the chance to interact with them because they were people I’d often seen and not had the chance to talk to.”

“London is really the world’s city… there are so many people from different backgrounds,” she says. “It’s so interesting in that way. And it’s good because if you’re coming from another country you don’t feel isolated.”

Sofia, who has just completed her first year at Birkbeck, University of London, studying web design and development began taking pictures about two years ago. She’s mostly self-taught, refining her technique on the streets of Buenos Aires and on trips to Australia and New Zealand. She’s passionate about

The diversity of people she meets on London’s streets has made her job easier.

Although she loves photography Sofia isn’t sure she wants to try to make it her profession.

“I would like to work in the media as a project manager perhaps. I love photography, but I think it’s a very hard path to follow to only do photography.

And I always like to do new things.”

Check out Sofia’s great photos over the next couple of pages and more style at greatbritishmag.co.uk

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18

Age: Nationality: Studying:

Age: Nationality: Studying:

23 China MBA

20 Germany History

Age: Nationality: Studying:

Age: Nationality: Studying:

21 France Contemporary Art

19 and 22 South Korea and Japan Fashion Communication (both)

GB Mag Cosmopolitans

Jamie and Ryu

Stella Kattermann Camille Bottineau

Cecilia

Age: 23 Nationality: Turkey Studying: Marketing and sales

Age: 25 Nationality: Brazil Studying: Make-up Prosthetics

Age: Nationality: Studying:

Age: Nationality: Studying:

Both 21 France and Hong Kong Costume Design / Fashion PR

24 Macao Fashion Marketing

GB Mag Cosmopolitans

Nicosia Lok

Francis Lima Aurora and Momo

Ataman

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by Richard Jinman

GB Mag A question of style

David Carter doesn’t hesitate when asked if there is such a thing as British style. “It certainly does exist and it’s packaged up and marketed across the world,” he says. “It ranges from a rather aristocratic, timeless look – Barbour jackets, corduroy trousers and brogues – to a kind of amazing, crazy street style.”

Carter’s own tastes lean heavily towards the classic.

He cuts a singular figure in a black frock coat, black cavalry cut trousers and a white Paul Smith shirt with brocade on the cuffs. A gold chain hangs from his lapel and he dons a bowler hat and blue polka dot tie for GB Mag.

Carter understands why international students flock to the UK’s arts and design hot spots such as Central Saint Martins, Goldsmiths and the Glasgow School of Art.

“We have some of the best design and fashion colleges in the world and we British design attract some of the best talent,” and style icons he says. “It’s because of our ability to constantly Paul Smith re-invent ourselves and Vivienne Westwood combine tradition and Terence Conran individuality.”

As an in-demand interior designer and the owner of London’s hippest “micro design hotel”, 40 Winks, style is something of an obsession for Carter. The baroque Kate Moss building in London’s hip Carter’s own idiosyncratic East End regularly appears Liam Gallagher style is a case in point. in the world’s top fashion Norman Foster He’s always liked dressing and style magazines as the Thomas Hetherington up, he says, and refuses to backdrop to celebrity portraits Stella McCartney “wear jeans, fit in with of stars ranging from Orlando everyone else and become Zaha Hadid Bloom and Helen Mirren to Emma invisible”. He’s been called a Bunting (Baby Spice) and Brit rockers modern Dandy and compared to the Kasabian. Carter also runs quirky events legendary English fashion photographer and such as TART – an afternoon of gin, lipstick and painter Cecil Beaton. But Carter is far from vain. vintage fashion for women – to Bedtime Stories, a mixture of pyjama party and book club. If anyone “I don’t spend six hours in front of the mirror is qualified to discuss the idiosyncratic style that before I leave the house,” he says. “I just live my makes the UK a magnet for the world’s fashion life the way I want to live it.” and design students, it’s him.

Eccentricity is just one reason the UK’s art and Carter studied law at Bristol University before design scene is so influential, he argues. The switching to religion and literature. He admits he British have always embraced eccentrics, even was “an outrageous extrovert” at university, but it putting them on a pedestal. took him a while to find his feet after graduation.

Luckily for him, Min Hogg the legendary editor of “We have traditionally been a very tolerant society the influential style bible The World of Interiors, which is a brilliant thing. Accommodating people recognised his talent and championed his work. who are eccentric is just part of that.”

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GB Mag Best British films and albums

Best British films of the...

2000s 1990s 1980s 1970s 1960s 1950s

by Richard Jinman and Rob Stares

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Dracula (1958) Eek! Watch this vampire classic with your hands in front of your face.

Made by Hammer (the British production company synonymous with scary flicks) it stars Christopher Lee as the blood sucking Count.

Peter Cushing plays Dracula’s nemesis Doctor Van Helsing.

Kes (1969) Kes was the second movie by the great British director Ken Loach.

It’s an incredibly realistic, rather bleak story, about a 15-year old boy who finds an escape from life’s hardships by training a kestel (a kind of hawk). Warning: it’s hard to watch Kes without shedding a few tears.

Don’t Look Now (1973) This English supernatural thriller directed by Nick Roeg is often voted the best British film of all time. It stars Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie as a couple who travel to Venice after the death of their young daughter. The film is spooky, but beautiful too: a masterpiece.

Withnail and I (1987) We love this film! A brilliant black comedy about two struggling actors living squalid lives in London, it made a star out of Richard E Grant.

Some people can quote every line from Withnail and I and it’s as funny today as it was in 1987.

Trainspotting (1996) What a film, what a soundtrack! Directed by Danny “2012 Olympics Opening Ceremony” Boyle, this tale of Edinburgh drug addicts made a star of Ewan McGregor. Who can forget the sight of McGregor’s character Mark Renton sprinting down the street to the sound of Iggy Pop’s Lust for Life?

Slumdog Millionaire (2008) Yes, it’s another film by Danny Boyle. His story about a young Indian blitzing a television quiz won eight Oscars including Best Director and Best Picture. Best scene: Jamal chasing Latika. Worst scene: the young Jamal diving into the open latrine (it was chocolate apparently).

GB Mag Best British films and albums

st British albums Of the...

2000s 1990s 1980s 1970s 1960s 1950s

Be

The Tommy Steele Story (1957) Britain’s first teen idol and rock and roll star owed a debt to Elvis Presley, but he was the first UK artist to reach number one in the British album charts with The Tommy Steele Story.

Sgt.Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967) Sgt. Pepper’s… is widely regarded as the greatest album of all time.

From the iconic album cover through to the lavish, innovative music created by The Beatles and producer George Martin, it changed music forever.

Led Zeppelin IV (1971) Led Zep’s IV is the absolute pinnacle of hard rock. From the eight minute odyssey Stairway to Heaven, to rock classics such as Black Dog and Rock and Roll, the album went on to sell more than 30 million copies.

The Stone Roses (1989) Responsible for re-inventing British rock music and paving the way for the ‘Britpop’ of Oasis and Blur in the 90’s, The influence of The Stone Roses’ self-titled album can still be felt in British music today.

Music For The Jilted Generation (1994) The Prodigy, The Chemical Brothers and Fatboy Slim’s big beat dominated the airwaves in the nineties. Music… was a loud, rebellious protest against the British police who regularly shut down popular rave nights.

Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not (2006) This album by Arctic Monkeys is the fastest selling debut album in British history. It’s easy to see why. Big, catchy indie anthems are coupled with lyrics that perfectly describe what it’s like growing up in modern Britain.

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GB Mag The Gunpowder Plot

The Gunpowder Plot Remember, remember the fifth of November gunpowder treason and plot...

OK, you probably have no idea what we’re talking about, but every student in the UK learns this little rhyme at school. It refers to November 5th 1605 the date when Guy Fawkes planned to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

Nowadays it’s known as Bonfire Night and Brits light fireworks and bonfires to commemorate the failed plot.

The master plan The Gunpowder Plot was hatched in May 1604.

It was led by Robert Catesby and involved a group of men (including Guy Fawkes) who planned to blow up both King James I and The Houses of Parliament. The attack was set for 5 November, 1605 - the day Parliament opened.

The plot was born out of anger. The men believed King James I had gone back on his promise to put a stop to the mistreatment of Catholics who were forced to practice their religion in secrecy. Rather than putting a stop to the mistreatment, King James I passed more laws against them.

The plotters bought a house with a cellar (basement) that extended under the Houses of Parliament. They filled the cellar with barrels of gunpowder.

A total of 36 barrels (nearly two tons) of gunpowder were hidden and Guy Fawkes had the job of lighting the fuse. But the plan failed when Lord Monteagle received an anonymous letter on 26 October, 1605 urging him not to attend the opening of Parliament.

The letter was shown to the King, which led to the discovery of the gunpowder. Guy Fawkes was arrested on the night of November 4th as he entered the cellar.

We recommend you watch the film V for Vendetta (2006). The plot follows a man called ‘V’, a freedom fighter who dresses in a Guy Fawkes mask. He tries to bring down an oppressive government and seek revenge on those who disfigured his face. Though it’s not the actual story of the Gunpowder Plot, V’s character is based on Fawkes - both were fighting for freedom.

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GB Mag The Gunpowder Plot

Though he would be classed as a ‘terrorist’ in today’s world, many people regard Fawkes as a hero.

Did you know?

What happened to Guy Fawkes?

• He was actually born a protestant but converted to Catholicism when he was he was 16

Guy Fawkes was the first to be caught (which is why he’s so famous) and taken to the Tower of London to be questioned and tortured. He eventually told the truth and his punishment was to be hung, drawn and quartered (chopped into four pieces) – how gruesome! Over time the other conspirators were also caught and executed except for one – Francis Tresham.

Who sent the letter?

It’s believed Monteagle’s brother in law, Francis Tresham (who was part of the group, and the only one who was not executed) sent the letter, though this was never proven. Recent historians argue Lord Monteagle and Robert Cecil (King James I’s chief minister) were working together with Francis Tresham to set up Fawkes and the other conspirators as a way to further people’s hatred towards Catholics.

Why the bonfires?

In celebration of his survival, King James I ordered that people have a bonfire on the night of November 5th. The tradition has continued and now people around the UK (except in Northern Ireland) do the same every November 5th.

• Guy Fawkes’ name was actually ‘Guido’ – he adopted this name whilst fighting for the Spanish

• Though Guy Fawkes had one of the most important roles in The Gunpowder Plot, he wasn’t the main person behind the plot • There was enough gunpowder to blow up the entire building and cause considerable damage to buildings (not to mention people) within a one mile radius • Some believe that even if Guy Fawkes wasn’t caught the plot would still have been unsuccessful because the gunpowder was too old to be of any use • In 2002 Guy Fawkes was named as the 30th Greatest Britain in a poll conducted by the BBC! • Another reason Guy Fawkes wanted to kill King James I was because he was Scottish and many English people did not want a Scot to rule the country (back then Scotland and England were separate countries) • An empty island north of Santa Cruz Island is named Isla Guy Fawkes (Guy Fawkes Island) it’s questioned whether he planned to escape there Photos left to right: Lewes District Council, Leeds Roundhay Park Bonfire and Fireworks at Midsummer Common, Cambridge

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. ondon sea, L l e h C ts, m on Ha ffs-r-us.co eringt to h t @ e o f H n of :i rtesy email 48 or at cou Top h 207 73029 0 Phone

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GB Mag The sound of success

AT the age of ten Kyra Santiago picked up the microphone of her father’s karaoke machine and sang Mariah Carey’s ballad Open Arms.

Two years later she borrowed his guitar and learned her first chords.

Nowadays, the 21-year old from Hong Kong is immersed in music. She’s a singer-songwriter with a debut album on the way and a recent graduate of the University of Westminster’s commercial music course.

Kyra decided to learn the business side of music because life as a musician can be fickle. “Being a performer is really hard – it doesn’t always pay the bills. My dad is very supportive [of her performing] but he told me, ‘know the business and no-one can screw you over’.”

Armed with her BA (Hons) in commercial music she feels fully equipped to pursue a career in event management and concert promotion. As long as her job gets her out of the office and working with interesting people she’ll be happy. “Obviously, if someone offers me a record deal I’ll be thrilled to take it up,” she laughs.

Kyra’s music education began in 2008 when she attended the five week summer performance program at Boston’s Berklee College of Music. She enjoyed it so much she began researching music degree courses in the US. But when she discovered Westminster had a BA covering “artistic

and business strategies in today’s music industry”, her attention switched to the UK. Three years down the track she’s glad she came to Britain. “I like the fact that Westminster isn’t a music school,” she says. “I’ve met people who can set me up with a web site or help me with PR. I’ve been on the [student] radio station and a journalism student wrote an article about me.”

There are benefits too from being in one of the world’s great music cities. As well as going to awesome gigs – Red Hot Chili Peppers, Death Cab For Cutie and Skrillex are three favourites – she helped promote the Lovebox festival and met people from all sectors of the industry. “In Hong Kong the music business is pretty small. In London my professors had all these great contacts [in the industry] and the scene is so much more lively.”

Actually, it’s only in your third year you begin to go, ‘Oh wow, I have all these resources!’ I can book a studio at a moment’s notice or go to a professor when I need some advice.”

r’ e e v n o o e ld m d no- you o t e h n rew a o e but s v i iag s c t t r e s o n p p Sa sin can u ry su ra e b v y s K he ad i t w My d ‘kno 27

GB Mag The sound of success

She enjoyed her three years here so much she’s eager to stay on and kick start her career in London. Under the visa system that means finding a company to sponsor her. “I’m applying to all the music companies,” she says. “I have no shame at the moment - I’m emailing everyone!”

If Kyra has a complaint about the UK it would be the relatively cold weather. “It’s something I find a bit weird about the Brits,” she says. “Even when it’s kind of cold they get into their shorts.

I can’t do that!”

ming a perfor r y K f o video o.uk Watch a mag.c h s i t i r reatb www.g

WENHONG Luo is still buzzing from performing at New York’s Lincoln Centre in an orchestra conducted by the Pulitzer Prize-winning American composer John Adams.

“It was incredible,” says the 20-year old viola player from Beijing. “We played his [Adams’] piece City Noir which has a big viola solo in it and he explained all his ideas for the piece.”

Wenhong moved to London two years ago to study at the Royal Academy of Music on a full scholarship. She plays in a chamber music quartet and has her sights set on a solo career.

Her next challenge is a Brahms competition in Austria; early next year she’ll compete in the Lionel Tertis International Viola Competition on the Isle of Man. 28

Wenhong was about to fly to the United States to audition for an American school when she received the news she had won a full scholarship to the Academy.

“I was so excited,” she says.

“I told my parents and they took me straight out to dinner.”

She believes her move to the UK was an essential part of her musical development.“Because I’m playing a western instrument it’s important to study in a western country,” she says. “In China my teachers were good, but I didn’t understand the culture underneath the notes. I needed to see that culture.”

She adjusted quickly to life in the UK because people were friendly, particularly her flatmates who picked her up from the airport. “My tutor gave me some great advice,” she says.

“He said speak as much English as possible and you’ll find people will respond.”

What does she think of the notoriously fickle weather?

“I like the rain!” she laughs.

“When I was in New York I thought ‘I like London more’.

New York was too hot and I didn’t like the tall buildings.”

SHOP ’TIL YOU DROP! Love to shop? Then the UK is the right place to be! We’re home to some world-famous markets, beautiful vintage shops and famous department stores. Whether you’re looking to splash out, or hunting for the ultimate bargain, there’s something for everyone.

DEPARTMENT STORES & SHOPPING CENTRES Selfridges & Co, London, Manchester and Birmingham Opened in 1909, Selfridges is a chain of high-end department stores in three cities around the UK. It was named Best Department Store in the world in 2010.

Selfridges has everything from technology to high fashion under one roof, but it’s a place to hang out as well as shop. With its regular calendar of events, including book signings and new product launches, you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice.

What’s more it has brilliant restaurants and cafés and a huge food hall if you fancy a spot of lunch whilst shopping!

ONE, Liverpool One thing you must do when in the UK is visit one of our shopping centres. Liverpool ONE is a must-see. It’s one of the largest shopping centres in the UK and home to more than 170 stores including the largest Topman and Topshop outside London.

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Harrods, London We’re sure you’ve already heard of this department store. Like Selfridges, Harrods is one of the largest and oldest shops in the UK. It’s wonderfully British and a magnet for tourists.

Harrods was founded by Charles Henry Harrod who started out as a grocer in East London. In the 1840s, Charles rented a small shop on Brompton Road and called it “Harrods”. It was his son who recognised Knightsbridge was becoming one of the most fashionable places in London and expanded the range of products to attract a wealthier clientele. Harrods is now home to some of the biggest designer names and employs more than 5,000 staff from 50 different countries.

TIP: Look out for Selfridges’ eccentric window displays – they’re world famous!

Photography: Selfridges, Harrods at night and the Custard Factory, Birmingham

GB Mag Shop ’til you drop

VINTAGE

MARKETS

Devoted 2 Vintage, online

Kirkgate Market, Leeds

Boys, we know you secretly love shopping as much, but might not like trawling through the shops. This online shop is the perfect solution.

Devoted 2 Vintage does a great range of suits, retro shirts, vintage leather and denim jackets, so go ahead and indulge yourself. www.devoted2vintage.co.uk

Kirkgate is Europe’s largest covered market – a collection of 600 stalls. As well as the usual items like clothes and jewellery, the market is home to some Chinese and Polish supermarkets.

Starry, Starry Night, Glasgow Opened by New Yorker Anna Graham in 1987, Starry, Starry Night has built a reputation for being the place to go for retro clothing and antiques in Glasgow. The shop is a treasure trove of beautiful Victorian gowns, tuxedos, kilts and cocktail dresses. Anna is often in the shop so be sure to ask her about the heritage of the clothes.

The Custard Factory, Birmingham What was once the Bird’s Custard Factory is now a hub of creativity with its small, quirky companies, galleries, restaurants and nightclubs. Oh, and some great vintage shops. Our favourite is Urban Village.

Naff Clothing, Bristol This little gem of a store in central Bristol is where you can get your vintage and fancy-dress fix. Check out the gorgeous dresses, handbags, scarves, jewellery and jackets from the ’50s to the ’80s. They also have masquerade masks and wigs.

What a great way to spend an afternoon!

Camden Market, London Did you know Camden Market is the fourth most visited place in London? It’s made up of a number of large markets collectively known as Camden Market or Camden Lock. If you’re into punk culture, or would like to experience it, this is the place to be. The market is open every day.

Leicester Market, Leicester Voted Britain’s favourite market in 2011, Leicester is another vast covered market. It’s home to an eclectic mix of cultures, with traders from more than 25 countries selling exotic spices and vegetables. The main section of the market has 300 stalls and a continental coffee bar. The upper floor is devoted to materials ranging from wool to silk.

Portobello Market, London Fans of Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts will recognise this market from the romantic comedy Notting Hill. You’ll be able to pick up some great clothes at affordable prices as well as beautiful antiques and fruit and veg.

The ‘official’ market day is Saturday, but many stalls are open during the week.

TIP: Look out for specialist markets in your town or city by logging onto your local authority’s website.

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GB Mag British food bites!

British food bites Despite Jamie Oliver’s best efforts, the Brits seem to have gained GB a reputation for being terrible cooks and eating bland food. The a led compi has and unfair bit a is tion reputa that thinks Mag team Correa Sheena Words: once! list of great British dishes you must try at least

Beans on toast This makes a cheap and tasty lunch.

The canned beans come in a tomato sauce. Heat them up slowly in a saucepan, toast and butter two slices of bread and pour the beans on top.

Add some grated Cheddar cheese just before serving.

A full English breakfast

Fish and chips This used to be a traditional Friday night dinner for British families. Having fish on Friday stems from the Catholic tradition of not eating meat on Fridays, especially during Lent.

The meal consists of battered white fish and deep-fried potato chips (clearly not for the health conscious). The only way to sample this is from a fish ‘n’ chip shop, or ‘chippie’. Order a side of mushy peas if you’re feeling particularly adventurous.

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Commonly known as a ‘fry-up’, this monster sized breakfast consists of fried or scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes and toast (we warned you it was big!)

It’s the ultimate cure for a hangover and you won’t need to eat again till the evening.

Steak and ale pie A British pub classic. The filling is made from chunks of beef slow-cooked in ale (a type of beer). Add a savoury pastry top and serve with fried or mashed potato and vegetables.

Kidney is added sometimes, but don’t be put off, it adds to the flavour.

GB Mag British food bites!

Roast dinner On Sundays, across Britain, families and friends enjoy a ‘Sunday roast’.

Roast beef, chicken, lamb or pork is commonly served with roast potatoes, boiled carrots and cabbage. The meat and vegetables are doused in gravy made from the meat’s juices!

Look like a pro by knowing which complimentary sauce goes with which meat.

Beef – horseradish Chicken – cranberry Lamb – mint Pork – apple

Apple crumble/pie and custard Apples are the national fruit of Britain and two must-try apple puddings are apple pie and apple crumble. Sweetened, stewed apple is either topped with sweet pastry or a buttery granola-style oat crumble and baked. Top it off with lashings of warm custard.

Cottage/shepherd’s pie

Bangers and mash

Both are variations of a minced meat pie topped with mashed potato and then baked. Cottage pie is made with minced beef and shepherd’s pie is minced lamb.

Impress the Brits by knowing the difference.

A ‘Banger’ is a sausage.

Brits love sausages as much as the Germans and serve them on top of mashed potato with gravy. Try herby Lincolnshire sausages for a banger with extra flavour.

The word banger dates back to World War II when poor quality sausages had a much higher water content and tended to explode under high heat.

Thankfully this is no longer the case.

Trifle A quintessentially English layered dessert. Sherry-soaked sponge cake is topped with mixed fruits set in jelly. Add custard, whipped cream and finally a cherry on top – delicious!

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Experience shakespeare’s iconic theatre visit globe exhibition & tour The Globe Exhibition & Tour explores the life of England’s greatest playwright, the London he lived in and the theatre he wrote for. Imagine the Globe as it would have been: the centre of what was once London’s most notorious entertainment district, surrounded by raucous taverns and bawdy-houses.

An Exhibition audio guide is included in the admission price.

Available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian and Japanese.

Open daily 9am – 5pm

shakespearesglobe.com Bankside, London, SE1 9DT

GB Mag Ask a Brit

ask a brit

that can seem unusual or downright There are aspects of life in the UK rts for an explanation? weird. Why not ask our resident expe

Why are shops selling alcohol called “Off Licences” in the UK? If they don’t have a licence,

Why do Brits say “are you

why are they selling stuff?

all right?” when they see me?

Are they really worried about my health?

Leo, 25, France

Camila Galleti, 22, Brazil

Well, like a lot of things in the UK, it all comes down to alcohol.

The phrase “Are you all right?” – often shortened to a cheery “y’alright?” – is a standard greeting in Britain. We are not making a sincere inquiry about your health and we don’t expect a lengthy response. Do not tell us about the itchy rash on your knee or the fact you have been feeling a little sad since your pet hamster went missing from his cage. Just say, “I’m fine, how are you?”.

If that’s too wordy just nod and say, “All right.”

There are two main types of alcohol licence in the UK – the ‘On’ licence and the ‘Off’ licence.

To cut a lot of boring legal stuff short, shops are referred to as ‘Off Licences’ when the owners are legally licenced to sell unopened alcoholic drinks on their premises.

The same rule applies to big supermarkets. They have to apply for and receive one of these magical licences before they can legally sell a crate of beer. The ‘On’ licence allows the owner to both sell alcohol and let you drink it on the premises.

This is the licence all pubs, clubs, cafés and bars should have if they don’t want to get shut down!

36

“Y’alright?” is very similar to American greetings such as “Hey” or “What’s Up?”.

If we’re really worried about you we’ll grasp you by the shoulder and say, “Are you feeling OK?” We Brits aren’t particularly tactile, so if this happens you should probably be worried.

GB Mag Ask a Brit

Where does the name Union Jack

come from and what does it mean?

Guillaume, 22, France

We’d love to be able to tell you that the Union Jack takes its name from the original Captain Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean films. Sadly, that would be a lie.

People here love talking about the weather! Why does everyone talk about the weather all the time?

Lee, 22, China

Short answer: It’s true!

But there are some good reasons for it.

The weather in Britain is so unpredictable.

As we write this, it’s 25°C outside and distinctly sticky. All the newspapers will soon be talking about a mini “heat wave” even though we’ve only recently packed our winter sweaters away.

In the back of our minds we know the hot weather isn’t going to last. There’s every chance it will rain tomorrow or get really cold. You just never know in the UK. Also, talking about the weather is an easy conversation filler or opener if you really have nothing to say. It fills that awkward silence, it’s something we all can relate to and it’s a nice ice breaker if you want to start talking to that cute guy/girl at the bus stop without coming across as a stalker.

The flag was created in 1801 and is made up of three flags: the red cross of St. George (England); the cross of St. Patrick (Ireland) and the blue saltire of St. Andrew (Scotland). If you’re wondering, the Welsh were included as part of the St. George cross.

The reason our flag is usually called the Union Jack dates back to the days when Britain was trying shamelessly to take over the world. The British flag would commonly be displayed on the Jack Staff of a warship when it was in harbour.

This would explain why the British flag is often referred to as the Union Jack around the world instead of its proper title: The Union Flag. As other nations refer to their own national flags as union flags, it makes sense that the British sailing term would become the worldwide name.

As a result, the British flag should only be called the Union Jack when the flag is on water. At all other times, it should be called the Union Flag.

And finally: make sure you hang the flag the right way. An upside-down Union Flag is used as a sign of distress. Even worse, it can be seen as an offensive gesture!

37

GB Mag Talk the talk

talk the talk

e a conversation with a Brit.

10 essential phrases you need to hav ses if you learn these 10 words and phra OK, your English isn’t perfect. But , least at tion ersa tion, or fake a conv you will be able to have a conversa

By Richard Jinman with any Brit.

Sorry The Brits say sorry if they bump into someone, if they can’t hear someone or they haven’t grasped what someone has said. It doesn’t really matter if you’re in the right or in the wrong (and you don’t really need to be sorry) just say the word and everyone’s happy!

Mate It can be friendly (“You look good, mate”) or rather hostile (“Do that again and you’ll regret it, mate”). It’s also handy if you’ve forgotten a person’s name. Just call them “mate” and you sound friendly and not at all forgetful!

You what?

Its basic meaning is “what do you mean?” but that changes depending on how much emphasis you put on it. For instance, if someone tells you they’ve sold their house and bet all the money on a racehorse, you might well exclaim: “You what!” Say it quietly and with less emphasis

38

and it suggests you haven’t quite understood.

Excuse Me Super polite Brits say “excuse me” when they burp, sneeze or cough. They also say it when they want to squeeze past someone in a crowd or don’t quite hear something someone has said.

Put an exclamation mark on the end and “excuse me” becomes a passive aggressive expression of irritation.

Funny weather isn’t it?

The weather is always funny in the UK. It’s always too hot/cold/ wet/dry/windy/humid etc. So, if you can’t think of anything else to say throw this little zinger into the conversation.

What’s he/she like?

This is an interesting use of a rhetorical question. If you say “What’s he/she like?” you have already made up your mind about someone and it’s not a positive impression.

Typical The word typical taps deep into the gloomy British psyche. If your train is late you might mutter “typical!” You’ll mutter it again when your car breaks down, your cat is sick on the carpet and it rains when you want to play tennis. Typical acknowledges that bad luck is a lot more common than good luck.

Fair enough A peculiar phrase that means something like “that seems appropriate”. In practice you can use it in almost any situation. If you want to agree with a line of argument, a course of action or just say something non-confrontational, this is the phrase to use.

Cheers Brits say “cheers!” when they raise their glasses in a toast.

It’s also shorthand for thank you – “cheers, mate!” – so you’ll hear the word a lot.

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GB Mag Final word

Final WLoorbdo with Rita

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