The UoB Linguist Issue 46 - Spring Edition

ISSUE 46

Apprendre l’art de la cuisine française NHS Strikes who is on strike, and why?

A Year Abroad Survival Kit for Second Years The Truth about your Favourite Pasta Gleiche Blumen, anderes Land

MARCH 2023

SPRING EDITION

Our 2022/23 Team Committee: Chair: Emily Mercer Secretary: Lucy Rowen Treasurer: Isabella Iacono Publicity Officer: Caitlin Gaul Creative Designer: Lucy Bradshaw Proofreaders: Emma Megan Crossley Charlotte Maxwell Editor TEAM: Travel: Caitlin Gaul Life & Style: Jess Haines Culture: Emma Gardner Current Affairs: Katy Doolan FOOD & DRINK: mEGAN GODDARD Catalan: Sophie Isbell French: Megan Goddard German: Tori Jackson Italian: Emily Mercer Mandarin: Grace Macleod Portuguese: Dan Fish Russian: Sophie Mash Spanish: Lucy Rowen

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3 Editor's Note 4 French Section: Apprendre l’art de la cuisine française by James Dooley 5-6 German Section: Gleiche Blumen, anderes Land by Hanna Pearcey; Rechtsextremismus lebt und bebt in Deutschland by Robbie Sweeten 7 Spanish Section: Por qué Málaga debería ser su próximo viaje en invierno by Lucy Rowen 8 Italian Section: Le tradizioni pasquali più strane in Italia by Robbie Sweeten; Matera, un luogo sconosciuto ma pieno di bellezza by Matthew Cassidy 9 Portuguese Section: Um Carnaval alternativo no Brasil by Daniel Fish 10 Catalan Section: Espanya vs Catalunya, en què es diferencien? by Sophie Isbell 11 Mandarin Section:

by Amani Kouassi 12 Russian Section: Топ-5 странных русских блюд by Niraalee Patel 13 Life & Style Section: A Year Abroad Survival Kit for Second Years by Freya Richold 14 Current Affairs Section: NHS Strikes - who is on strike, and why? by Katy Doolan 15 Culture Section: A guide to post-Year Abroad blues

by Matthew Cassidy 16-17 Food & Drink Section: The Truth about your Favourite Pasta by Megan Goddard; A taste of Stockholm by Emily Mercer 18 Travel Section: 48 Hours in Munich: A Travel Guide by Caitlin Gaul 19 Quiz - Where should you go this Spring?

兔年吉祥！

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Editor's Note W

elcome to Issue 46!

Our Spring edition welcomes you to a new season of lighter and brighter days which I am sure many of us are looking forward to, despite being faced with another spell of exams and deadlines. Nevertheless, I hope this edition can lift your spirits and perhaps inspire you to take a weekend city trip away or learn a new language!

Travel enthusiasts will be stuck for choice between Málaga, Munich or Matera after reading about our writers’ weekend trips abroad. As the Easter holidays are approaching, Robbie Sweeten’s article about the most peculiar Easter traditions in Italy will be an interesting read for Italian students. Find out about Brazil’s hybrid cultural identity through its history of carnivals in the Portuguese section. For those wanting to brush up on their Mandarin skills, why not take a look at Amani Kouassi’s article about the Spring Festival that is celebrated in China each year.

I would like to congratulate all our talented writers, editors, and proofreaders for working so hard to produce such compelling content and continuing to inspire future writers and travel bloggers. Of course, thank you to our members and readers for keeping the magazine alive! I would also like to remind our members that the Linguist welcomes all languages, not only the ones that regularly feature in our magazine. We love to showcase less wellknown languages from all around the world, so please get in touch with us if this is something that interests you!

I hope everyone has a relaxing Spring break and manages to rest before the exam season commences. Happy holidays!

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Apprendre l’art de la cuisine française La plupart des gens faisaient du pain pendant le confinement, mais pas moi ; je suis diffèrent.

Je regardais le film Julie et Julia avec Meryl Streep dans le rôle de Julia Child et je suis tombé amoureux immédiatement avec de la cuisine française. Après avoir regardé le film, j'ai acheté son livre, 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking: Volume 1.' Ce livre était idéal pour moi parce que c'est très facile pour les anglophones pour de le comprendre. Avec des instructions détaillées incroyablement, c'était l’endroit parfait pour commencer. Le premier plat que j'ai fait était une Vichyssoise.

C'est un potage facile à faire, avec des pommes de terre, poireaux, du la beurre et de la crème.

Français

Assurez-vous qu'il ne reste pas de morceaux de légumes. Incorporer le beurre et la crème et c'est aussi simple que ça. Un Potage Parmentier est parfait parce que vous pouvez ajouter ou enlever des ingrédients en fonction de vos recettes et de vos goûts. Par exemple, vous pouvez ajouter du cresson ou des échalotes ou à peu près tout ce que vous voulez.

La raison pour laquelle la cuisine française m'attire est la fierté de la présentation et les saveurs simples créent une riche histoire culinaire. C’est la création de la haute cuisine qui fait de la cuisine française la meilleure au monde. La haute cuisine, c'est plus que manger de la nourriture ordinaire, c'est aussi à propos du raffinement expérience et un certain je ne sais quoi. La chose la plus difficile que j'ai faite, de loin, est un soufflé. Une fois de plus, Julia Child vient à la rescousse. L’erreur la plus courante lors de la préparation de soufflés est que les gens ne battent pas assez les blancs d’œufs ou sont trop brusque lorsqu’ils les incorporent dans la sauce. La meilleure chose à faire est d’être aussi doux que possible.

@jamesdooley

La première chose que vous faites est de trancher les poireaux et les pommes de terre.

Ensuite, il faut mijoter les légumes pour pendant 40 à 50 minutes, Apres 50 minutes, simplement mélanger les légumes avec un mixeur.

Filet de Poisson Poché à la Bretonne @jamesdooley

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BY James Dooley

Gleiche Blumen, anderes Land

deutsch

Kirschblütenbäume sind ein wichtiges Symbol in der japanischen Kultur. Sie stehen für Schönheit und Neubeginn – passend, wenn man bedenkt, dass die Bäume in einer Zeit des Wandels in der Stadt gepflanzt wurden. Während der Saison dieser Bäume in Japan, feiern viele Leute das sogenannte Hanami @hannapearcey Fest mit Picknicks, Getränken und Grillpartys unter den Bäumen. Schulen und Büros haben auch Partys und sie sind die perfekte Chance, neue Freunde kennenzulernen und Verbindungen mit Ihren Kollegen zu schaffen. Auch in der Nacht werden die Bäume beleuchtet und Aussichtspunkte sind mit Menschen erfüllt.

@hannapearcey

Jedes Jahr strömen Massen von Menschen auf die Straßen von Bonn, um die berühmten japanischen Kirschblütenbäume zu bewundern.

Wunderschöne rosa Bäume säumen die Straßen und sie gestalten die einst graue und heruntergekommene Altstadt um. Für einen kurzen Zeitraum von nur zwei Wochen wird die Stadt eine Sensation in den sozialen Medien – das Hashtag #cherryblossombonn hat 2.385 Beiträge. Ursprünglich sollten die Bäume nicht der Schwerpunkt der Renovierung in den späten 80en der Altstadt sein. Sie wurden einfach als ein Farbtupfer eingeführt aber übertreffen jetzt alle Erwartungen.

Hanami bei Nacht heißt Yozakura und ist besonders beliebt bei Paaren wegen der romantischen Atmosphäre. Die Bäume sollten die Altstadt zu einem schöneren Wohngebiet machen, jedoch ist nicht jeder ein Fan. Während der zwei Wochen sind die Straßen unglaublich überfüllt und oft sind die Menschenmengen unordentlich und laut. Es gab Beschwerden über Menschen, die im Freien und an Gebäudeeingängen auf die Toilette gehen, weil es keine Toiletten gibt. Für die Bewohner wird das Gebiet ein schwieriger Ort zum Leben, aber die Stadt Bonn hofft, einige dieser Probleme lösen zu können, zum Beispiel durch die Einrichtung von mehr öffentlichen Toiletten.

Es kann nicht geleugnet werden, dass die Bäume ein wahres Wunder sind. Obwohl nur kurzzeitig, bringen sie Leben in die Straßen von Bonn und machen die japanische Kultur einem neuen Publikum zugänglich.

by Hanna Pearcey

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Rechtsextremismus lebt und bebt in Deutschland Am 7. Dezember fand die größte Anti-TerrorRazzia der Bundesrepublik Deutschland statt. „Die Reichsbürger“ hatten alles akribisch geplant, der Kopf der terroristischen Vereinigung sollte Heinrich der 13. Prinz Reuß sein. Am Ende wurde Heinrich gleichzeitig mit weiteren 24 Verdächtigen festgenommen.

Das heißt aber keinesfalls, dass die Reichsbürger sowie die Rechtsextremisten keine Gefahr darstellen.

Es gab in den letzten Jahren in Deutschland eine Gewaltbereitschaft von rechtsorientierten Menschen, aber diese jüngsten Angriffe auf die deutsche Demokratie stellen jetzt eine höhere Gefahr dar.

"20201115-teistungen-reichsbürger-8" by nicokuhn is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

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deutsch

Unter vielen Beispielen möchte ich den Fall von Henriette Reker erwähnen. Die stellvertretende Bürgermeisterin in Köln wurde kurz vor den OBWahlen im Jahr 2015 in der Öffentlichkeit in den Nacken gestochen. Sie kümmerte sich um die Unterkünfte für Migranten in der Stadt und nahm seit langem eine pro-Immigration Stellung.

Aber Schlimmeres gab es seitdem, nämlich im Februar 2020. Ein rechtsextremistischer Schütze ist nachts in zwei Shisa-Bars in Hanau bei Frankfurt gelaufen und tötete 11 Menschen. Er ist danach zu seiner Wohnung gegangen, hat seine Mutter erschossen und sich umgebracht.

Diese Ereignisse zeigen, dass „normale“ rechtsorientierte Bürger schon den Auftrag aufgenommen haben, linksorientierte Politiker zu töten und die Demokratie zu beschädigen.

Es ist aber wichtig zu beachten, dass die Reichsbürger aus Richterin, Polizisten und ehemaligen Mitgliedern des Militärs sowie Waffenverkäufern bestehen. Obwohl „normale“ Bürger schon linksorientierte Politiker angegriffen, erstochen und getötet haben, stellen sie sich jetzt zusammen, um die ganze demokratische Infrastruktur zu zerreißen.

Das heißt daher, trotz des Scheiterns des Putsches im vergangenen Monat wird es bestimmt rechtsorientierten Menschen die Hoffnung geben, dass sie direkt bei der Zerstörung der Demokratie mitmachen können. Ähnlich zur Situation in den USA, erfährt Deutschland gerade eine vorherrschende Gefahr von Rechtsterrorismus.

by Robbie Sweeten

Español

Por qué Málaga debería ser su próximo viaje en invierno

1.Las playas y el tiempo:

Aunque no es verano, es seguro que esta ciudad mediterránea hará mucho más calor que Inglaterra.

Cuando llegamos, la temperatura era 19 grados, ¡20 grados más caliente que Birmingham esa mañana!

Ir a la playa en enero fue una experiencia fabulosa y obtuvimos alguna vitamina D necesaria, después de nuestros exámenes. Sin embargo, pensábamos que el agua estaba demasiado fría para nadar.

@lucyrowen

2. La comida: Decidimos probar la comida tradicional

y malagueña, y comimos en tres restaurantes increíbles: Casa Lola, El Chinitas, y La Tranca. Casa Lola es el restaurante de tapas más famoso en Málaga, con colas largas todos los días, y después de probar la comida, comprendimos la razón por qué. Hay platos tradicionales y nuevos, que son muy sabrosos (tiene que probar los tomates). La carta estaba solamente en español; ¡entonces es una buena oportunidad de practicar su español también! El Chinitas era muy tradicional y la paella estaba increíble, su interior me recordó a una taberna clásica española.

Y, la Tranca, un pequeño restaurante de tapas que está siempre lleno, pero muy barato y perfecto para un almuerzo. No sabíamos si tendríamos tiempo para visitar, pero decidimos comer allí justo antes de partir al aeropuerto, y me alegra que lo hiciéramos.

@lucyrowen

Normalmente, relacionamos el sur de España con el verano; el calor, las playas y las vacaciones.

Pero, mis amigos y yo decidimos ir a Málaga un fin de semana en enero, después de nuestros exámenes, y ahora diría que es el lugar perfecto para un viaje en invierno o en primavera.

Estas son mis cuatro razones por las que debería visitar Málaga en el invierno o primavera:

3. La cultura: Hay muchos

lugares para visitar, especialmente si está interesado en la historia.

La entrada a la Alcazaba, un palacio fortificado de la época islámica, es gratuita los domingos después de las dos, y se puede escuchar la audioguía fascinante para ayudarle a aprender sobre la historia de este monumento maravilloso.

También está el Castillo de Gibralfaro, que está situado arriba de toda la ciudad. Si la historia no es de su interés, la subida todavía vale la pena para ver las vistas increíbles de la ciudad.

@lucyrowen

4. La vida nocturna: Dado que somos estudiantes que les

encantan una velada y algunos chupitos, Málaga fue perfecta. Hay muchos bares baratos, y discotecas en las que se puede bailar toda la noche. Nuestro favorito fue Sala Gold, porque hay una mezcla perfecta de música, había algunas canciones españolas, francesas y aún británicas. Es probable que en nuestro viaje bebiera más sangría y tinto de verano que agua. Y, tiene que ir a la Terraza de la Alcazaba, que es un bar con vistas del monumento, además de cócteles deliciosos. Bebimos copas de cava mientras veíamos la puesta de sol.

Un viaje a Málaga definitivamente mejoró mi enero. Es una de las ciudades más bonitas que he visitado, y la recomiendo mucho. ¡Debe considerar un viaje a Málaga fuera del verano!

by lucy Rowen

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by Peppe Occhipinti on Unsplash

Italiano

Mentre ci avviciniamo al periodo di Pasqua, ho pensato che potesse essere interessante osservare le tradizioni pasquali più particolari in Italia. La Pasqua è celebrata in tutto il mondo cristiano, ma per chi resta in Italia, tra le tante tradizioni della festa, ci sono molte opzioni da scegliere, cominciando con le rappresentazioni in costume che si possono guardare in ogni borgo del “Belpaese”.

Tra le più conosciute c’è la processione pasquale di Trapani che si trova in Sicilia. Venti gruppi statuari, che rappresentano la passione e la morte di Cristo, vengono portati in processione a partire dalle ore 14 del Venerdì Santo per quasi 24 ore. La processione è lunga un chilometro. La sfilata attira moltissime persone e numerose bande musicali seguono il varo, cioè una struttura con dei basamenti di legno a cui sono collegate le statue che ripercorrono le tappe della passione di Cristo. Per 20 ore, ininterrottamente, i portatori chiamati “massari” portano in spalla questi monumenti.

Una grande partecipazione popolare caratterizza anche le celebrazioni in provincia di Bari, a Ruvo, durante le quali avviene lo scoppio della Quarantana: un fantoccio che ha le sembianze di una vecchia signora vestita di nero, la cui esplosione segna la vittoria della vita sulla morte.

Per quanto riguarda il cibo tipico pasquale, in Italia ci sono diverse tradizioni, ma vorrei concentrarmi solo sulle pietanze più popolari.

Generalmente in Italia le tradizioni culinarie comprendono: L’uovo, sodo o di cioccolata, rappresenta la speranza e la vita che si rinnova ed è auspicio di fecondità, (solitamente si regala ai bambini il giorno di Pasqua) L’agnello simboleggia la purezza e la redenzione nella Resurrezione (e molto spesso si può trovare nelle tavole degli italiani durante il loro pranzo pasquale) Il pane, invece, è il simbolo della Provvidenza La Colomba Pasquale, infine, (un dolce che non può mancare durante le feste pasquali) è un delizioso impasto zuccherato che chiude in genere il pranzo di Pasqua, e rappresenta un forte valore simbolico di pace, rinascita e by robbie sweeten amore.

Le tradizioni pasquali più strane in Italia

Non è difficile incontrare dei luoghi italiani popolari tra i turisti. Cinque Terre, Venezia, Milano, Roma. Ma perché? Ci sono varie ragioni: i suoi paesaggi, la sua storia, la sua unicità, che le fanno ricevere qualche milione di turisti dall’estero e dall’Italia stessa ogni anno.

In base alla mia esperienza, Venezia non è così bella come appare nelle foto. Ci sono tante persone nelle strade. È certo, tanti residenti veneziani ne approfittano, vendendo prodotti ‘autentici’ a un costo elevato. Però, ci sono dei luoghi in Italia che valgano la pena di essere visitati e non sono inondati di turisti.

Ti presento Matera. Situata nelle montagne della Basilicata, vicino alla Puglia, è una località ricca di storia, con strade pittoresche e viste bellissime. C’è anche un’ottima cucina locale da provare, come il pane tradizionale, pane di Matera, e il pezzente della montagna, un salume tradizionale mescolato con sale e peperoncino.

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"Matera - Sito Unesco - 3" by gcalsa is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

Matera, un luogo sconosciuto ma pieno di bellezza

Però l’attrazione principale di questo piccolo paese sono le case incastonate nelle caverne! Non era facile abitare nelle montagne, perciò i residenti dovevano adattarsi. Chiamati i ‘Sassi,’ questi edifici, hanno 9000 anni di insediamento! Benché non ci siano molte persone che abitano nei Sassi adesso, a causa di un’evacuazione provocata per un’epidemia di malaria negli anni 50, adesso ci sono alcuni musei dove si può scoprire la lunga storia della regione e i dei suoi abitanti. Qualche casa è stata adattata per i turisti, e perciò, si può anche rimanere lì per la notte.

Ma come si può arrivare a Matera? Ci sono voli diretti da Londra a Brindisi, e dopo un pulmino che, in meno di due ore, ti porta a destinazione. Senza dubbio vale la pena dare un’occhiata!

by Matthew Cassidy

Quando estrangeiros pensam em Carnaval, é provável que a primeira coisa que vem em suas cabeças é o Rio de Janeiro. Por que não?

Sem dúvidas, o Carnaval do Rio é o mais famoso, mas seria ele o melhor também?

Teria ele o maior número de pessoas, atmosfera mais emocionante, as festas mais locas e divertidas?

Primeiramente que é o Carnaval?

O Carnaval originou-se na Itália pra celebrar o começo da quaresma. Espalhou-se ao mundo cristão, incluindo o Brasil. O Carnaval do Brasil é especial porque se integra com o samba, e movimentos e costumas africanas dos escravos ícones da história do país. É famoso mundialmente como uma festa gigante com muito exotismo e excentricidade, especialmente nas fantasias. Há dançarinos nas ruas em todo o país. Que massa! O Carnaval mais famoso do mundo é visto como o do Rio de Janeiro.

Na verdade, existe um outro Carnaval no Brasil com o mesmo nível da energia no coração do afro-brasil: o Carnaval de Salvador. Salvador fica no nordeste do país e é a quarta cidade mais populosa no Brasil. A música axé do estado da Bahia, onde fica a cidade de Salvador, está no centro deste Carnaval. Por isso, o Carnaval de Salvador tem um ritmo forte com influência do patrimônio africano do país. É uma atmosfera única que rivaliza o Carnaval do Rio de Janeiro, um que é discutível que seja mais famosa fora do Brasil.

Português

"Ilê Aiyê" by Alex Carvalho is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Um Carnaval alternativo no Brasil

Tudo legal? Discutimos as razões por que este Carnaval é tão fantástico.

O Carnaval de Salvador é famoso pelos grandes trios elétricos, carros alegóricos com muita música e dança. Pode encontrar estes trios elétricos nas ruas no centro de cidade e permitem que o público se envolva no evento.

No Carnaval de Rio de Janeiro, a agitação ocorre num lugar específico (o sambódromo) e o público é apenas espectador. Contudo, em Salvador, todas as pessoas fazem parte da parada, dançando ao ritmo forte.

Pensando sobre o patrimônio africano do Carnaval principal da Bahia, há afoxés- grupos que originaram com algumas influências desde a religião de Candomblé no estado. Estes afoxés incluem os filhos de Gandhi, o grupo mais conhecido.

Concluindo, o Carnaval de Salvador na Bahia no Brasil é um evento com uma atmosfera única, a música, e a dança tão fantástica como o Carnaval mais conhecido no Rio de Janeiro. Este é uma festa de muita importância para cultura brasileira nesta estação. Espero que vocês tenham a oportunidade de ir no futuro!

by Dan Fish

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Espanya vs Catalunya, en què es diferencien?

Fa poc em vaig traslladar a Barcelona com a part del meu any a l'estranger. Com estudiant espanyol i català, era conscient de les diferències lingüístiques entre Catalunya i altres autonomies espanyoles, però també em van sorprendre algunes coses.

Tot i que la cultura catalana comparteix moltes similituds amb l'espanyola, també té característiques pròpies que la diferencien.

Aquestes són algunes de les diferències entre la cultura catalana i l'espanyola:

La llengua: El català és una llengua diferent que es parla a Catalunya i té les pròpies regles lingüístiques i de pronunciació. Tot i que el castellà es parla molt a Catalunya, molts catalans prefereixen utilitzar la llengua pròpia.

Història: Catalunya té una història llarga i rica, que inclou períodes d'independència i autogovern, cosa que ha conformat una identitat cultural única i separada de la resta d'Espanya.

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Festes: Catalunya té el seu propi calendari de festes i celebracions tradicionals, com ara la Mercè, una festa a Barcelona que celebra el patró de la ciutat, i Sant Joan, una festa del solstici d'estiu.

Arquitectura: Catalunya té un estil arquitectònic propi, influït pel moviment modernista de finals del segle XIX i principis del XX. Antoni Gaudí és un dels arquitectes més famosos associats a aquest estil, i les seves obres, com ara la Sagrada Família i el Park Güell, són un tret definitori de Barcelona.

En general, tot i que Catalunya forma part d'Espanya, la seva identitat cultural és única i orgullosa, i la seva gent en valora el patrimoni i les tradicions.

@sophieisbell

Gastronomia: La cuina catalana té els seus propis plats i ingredients tradicionals, com ara el pa amb tomàquet (pa amb tomàquet), l'Escalivada (verdures a la brasa) i la Crema Catalana (un tipus de postres).

Català

by Sophie Isbell

兔年吉祥！

@gracemacleod

@gracemacleod

大家好! 一月我们过农历新年!大家知道春节是 什么吗？不用慌！我来解释一下。春节，又称 农历新年，是中国四大传统节日之一。春节全 节日发生于一般是每一年农历正月初一到正十 五月。不仅是中国的新年庆祝活动，全球二十 多个国家都在庆祝新年。这是一种有着悠久深 厚历史的节日。 每个节日的过程中有许多有趣和深厚的意义 的活动。其实，春节是从正月初一前一天，除 夕，开始的。有话说很久以前有两个叫年兽和 祟的怪物，每一年夜就来村庄里引起混乱和恐 吓孩子们。很多春节的习俗就是为了吓到它们 而成的。放鞭炮，贴红纸条和红字，穿红装就 会把年兽赶走。同时，发红包会吓跑祟。除夕 还有亲人团圆的意义。那一夜，家人常常会一 起买年货然后做和一起共享年夜饭。年晚饭的 菜各有不同但最有名的就是饺子。包饺子是一 个跟家人过珍贵时间的机会。而且，一家人吃 饭等年的时候，还要看电视转播的春节联欢晚 会等五光十色的节目。

汉语

新年的第一天也会有很多有 意思的活动和习俗。比如每个农 历年都有一个象征性的动物，称 为生效生肖。有十二个生肖。今 年是兔年；所以在庆祝春节的国 家里面的很多地放装饰都会包括 有兔子的形式和画的物品东西。 家人也会把标志兔子的春联和剪 纸贴在们和窗户上。这些都有祝 福和希望新年会带来很多好的事 情事请的意义。 因此，春节不只是一个庆典的 节日而是一个亲人共度宝贵时光 的机会。希望大家可以体验春 节；跟家人，朋友，关心的人一 起开启一个美好的一年。祝大家 水兔年吉祥，心想事成！

by AMANI KOUASSI

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Топ-5 странных русских блюд Пробовать новые блюда - всегда интересный опыт, и это отличный способ узнать о разных культурах. Русская кухня не является исключением, ведь она очень вкусная и душевная. Однако для нас, иностранцев, некоторые блюда могут казаться немного странными. Селёдка под шубой Название этого блюда часто ставит иностранцев в тупик. Конечно, это всего лишь метафора, но сочетание вареных овощей, большого количества майонеза и слабосолёную селёдки может казаться непривлекательным и, честно говоря, немного странным. Однако следует признать, что разноцветные слои создают, пожалуй, один из самых красивых салатов в русской кухне.

@niraaleepatel

Холодец Холодец - наверное, самое странное блюдо, шокирующее иностранцев. Хотя это желе из копыт, хрящей, хвостов и ушей часто наводит ужас на иностранцев, некоторые русские считают его не только вкусным, но и весёлым. Честно говоря, я не пробовала это блюдо, когда жила в России, но оно очень традиционное, и, если вы чувствуете себя смелым, я определённо рекомендую его попробовать!

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русский Борщ Пожалуй, одним из самых известных русских блюд, удивляющих иностранцев, является «борщ». Родом из Украины, на первый взгляд, концепция борща не кажется такой странной — это просто суп из свёклы и капусты. Но его шокирующий яркокрасный цвет вызывает бурю эмоций и реакций у иностранцев. Однако на самом деле в этом супе очень много вкуса от разнообразных овощей и, конечно же, укропа.

@niraaleepatel

Шоколадная колбаса Что касается сладкого, то очень популярным русским десертом является классическая шоколадная колбаса. Название этого блюда также вызывает недоумение у иностранцев, но, честно говоря, оно подходит к его внешности. Конечно же, в этом десерте нет мяса, это сочетание шоколада, печенья и орехов, которому придают форму колбасы. Этот десерт похож на «рокки роуд» и очень вкусный - рекомендую всем! Птичье Молоко Несмотря на своё странное название, «Птичье Молоко» является невероятно популярным десертом в России и бывает в форме большого торта или маленьких конфет, которые удивительно приятны на вкус. Этот десерт идеально для всех сладкоежек!

by Niraalee Patel

A Year Abroad Survival Kit for Second Years Pre-departure:

Life & style During your time abroad:

Unless you are fortunate enough to hold a European Preparing for the year abroad is a hassle, and can be passport, the first (quite arduous) step of the pre- very daunting, but after a few weeks of settling in it is departure process is to obtain a visa. The process easy to forget the previous stress, and most people varies widely depending on which country you are end up having the time of their lives! Of course, it is going to, and whether you will be working or studying. natural to be worried, so here are a few tips on how to For countries such as France, Spain, and Italy, it is a make the most of your stay… First, make lots of friends. rigorous process, so I suggest you start early! Getting Anything is scary until you have friends to share the an appointment at the consulate can take weeks, so experience with, and luckily Erasmus students are the start emailing them as soon as you can (around most outgoing and sociable people you will meet. In a June/July) to book an appointment. It is vital that you similar way to freshers, it is important to chat to your thoroughly read their instructions to make sure you flatmates and go to the welcome events. Usually, there know which documents you need to bring to the is a big Erasmus event before term begins, which is the @freyarichold appointment. ideal time to meet people.

Another word of advice is that it helps to be in the As well as meeting social loop before you start your year abroad. Many fellow Erasmus universities have Erasmus societies that you can join, students, the main and Facebook and WhatsApp groups mean you can reason why you are test the waters before you go, finding friends or abroad is to learn the accommodation via these groups before you even language, so making arrive in your host country. friends with locals is For the majority of people, you will have to find one of the best ways to practise. Whether it is with accommodation yourself, however some universities classmates or work colleagues, building a rapport with or workplaces may offer it. Many people wait until people you are going to spend every day with will be a they are abroad to look for accommodation and stay big help. If you speak more than one language, make in hostels or hotels until they have found somewhere sure to practise them with friends, or by watching TV suitable. However, others prefer to know where they from that country - you’ll thank yourself for it when you will be staying before they leave, and nowadays it is move on to your next country! easy to find accommodation online. Just be wary of Language-learning isn’t the only element of the year scams! abroad – this year will be one of the best opportunities @freyarichold Finally, make sure to travel in your life. The Erasmus society of your city you are fully will organise trips around the country most weekends, prepared before and, (depending on where you are) most of Europe has leaving. Book your cheap and reliable public transport, meaning you can flights, organise plan your own trips too. Make the most of being in a transport to and different part of the world by exploring! Also, make from the airport, sure to take lots of photos, make a video log, or keep a and make sure you journal of your year abroad. Your time there will go know what to do quickly, and when you’re back in Birmingham for final on the other side. year you will be glad to have something to look back If you are going for one semester, you might get on. away with travelling with just one 20kg bag, however many people prefer to take two, especially if they are

by Freya Richold in one place for the whole year.

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NHS Strikes - who is on strike, and why?

Overworked and underpaid, thousands of NHS staff have decided to take action against the unfair working conditions and walk out in protest. The strikes began on 15 December, after ministers refused to negotiate salaries having claimed they were unaffordable.

It is no news that the NHS is overwhelmed, and staff have been first-hand witnesses to the lack of support offered by the government to cope with the backlog.

Currently they are seeing a severely low staffing level, caused by a lack of staff retention. Addressing this, however, would require pay to be discussed, which the government refuses.

It can be difficult to imagine the dire state of the working conditions without being there yourself. Many staff work unpaid overtime and through their lunch breaks, feeling crushed by the burden of responsibility they have over their patients. Unsurprisingly, staff may find themselves quitting due to the government’s inability to take accountability for their decisions - decisions that have led to this ongoing crisis…

Current Affairs

For more than a decade, the NHS has been criminally underfunded under government leadership, and the effects will be felt far into the future. Like many other people in the country, NHS workers have been hit by the cost of living crisis and unions are asking for a 19% pay rise.

So, what can we do about the strikes? Though it is easy to feel frustrated at the delays in waiting times for appointments and ambulances, it is important to direct our anger towards the people responsible for causing these problems.

The staff are on strike because they are as equally fed up with the poor management of the country’s health services as we are. We ought to show our support by championing the strikes and demanding that the government give NHS staff fairer pay and workable conditions - in other words, ones that do not result in workers feeling exhausted everyday because they had to miss their lunch.

Source: PA Media

A survey published by the GMB union revealed that a third of ambulance staff reported to have been involved in a delay that resulted in a patient’s death. The NHS workers are striking because they want a better health service for us, and we should fight with them.

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by Katy Doolan

A guide to post-Year Abroad blues

Culture

Yes, it’s been at least 4 months since us final years have been back in the UK, but the nostalgia still holds firm. Be it the Aperol spritz in Italy, the plazas in Spain, the Christmas markets in Germany or maybe the konbinis, if you went as far as Japan, as I was lucky enough to. There’s always an itch to get back travelling again, and while watching the online travels of others on social media may partially fill the void, the wanderlust of the travel bug is one that can be difficult to suppress. Here are a few tips that have helped me bridge the gap between year abroad and the next adventure, whenever that may be, and will hopefully help all of you too!

Visit your local area into as if you were a tourist: Well, a visit to Selly Park was certainly not what I had in mind, but if you visit some of Birmingham’s more unknown areas, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised. The graffiti and quirky shops of the Custard Factory in Digbeth, the bright lights and canals of Gas Street Basin, and the British capital of curry in the Balti Triangle. Or maybe you can think further afield, to the historically rich castle of Warwick, or the literary capital of Stratford-Upon Avon, not only hometown to England’s literary genius, William Shakespeare, but also Britain’s largest butterfly farm. While they may not be the cliffs of Cinque-Terre, the sublime architecture at the Alhambra, nor the colourful beauty of St-Basil’s cathedral, exploring is always great fun, and it helps you get to know your local area from a different perspective!

Meet up with friends who were on your year abroad with you: Sometimes what one misses about Year Abroad isn’t just the place itself, but the people you spent it with. The banter, the bailing each other out for the homework, and of course the language learning memes! If you have a few friends from unis nearby, then it’s 100% worth messaging to organise for a meetup! They’re likely in the same boat as you are, and therefore jumping at the chance to say hi. It’s a great way to keep in contact, and definitely helps to keep the spirit of year abroad alive. You can always combine it with the previous tip, and travel around them, to really bring back the memories you had together, and to create new ones too!

Try and join groups from UoB that have international and exchange students: One thing I always appreciated about being abroad was the cultural and linguistic diversity that I found abroad, and was disappointed initially at not finding it on first glance. However, one often forgets that there are plenty of international and exchange students from all backgrounds who come to the UK! One example is that of the Languages Café, specifically the one hosted by the International Officer, Alice Liu. Upon my recent venture there, I was lucky enough to find people from all over; Ecuador, Spain, and China, to name but a few! Many of the country-specific societies also welcome international students. Italians will obviously be found in number at the Italian society, where there is lots of experience sharing and language practising to be had, from personal experience!

I hope these tips proved useful to you and that if anything, you’ll be able to get back abroad when the money allows you to! After all, for better or for worse, the best way to deal with year-abroad syndrome, is to go back abroad.

by Matthew Cassidy

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The Truth about your Favourite Pasta

@megangoddard

“You live in Bologna? That’s where Spaghetti Bolognese comes from, right?” were the words from many of my friends and family members upon announcing the destination of my year abroad. A comfort food somewhat reminiscent of cold winter evenings after school, it cannot be denied that Spaghetti Bolognese has a fond place in the hearts of many Brits, even being noted as the second most popular household meal for British families.

However, since moving to Italy in September, I have discovered that my beloved dish is nowhere to be found here.

Bologna lies in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, a region best known amongst Italians as the hub of gastronomy. Bologna is the home of delicious platters of cured meats and soft cheeses, as well as mouth-watering risotto and stew dishes, and the incredible €2 Aperol Spritz from Piazza Verde. But arguably, Bologna is most well-known for its tagliatelle al ragù alla Bolognese, otherwise known as the Italian version of Spaghetti Bolognese nothing like our cherished dinner. The origins of Spaghetti Bolognese are widely disputed by culinary historians, with many suggesting that it was invented in New York City after the mass immigration of Italians there, blending the traditional ragù with tomatoes and red wine to create an American-Italian fusion dish.

Food & Drink

However, the original recorded recipe of any variation of Bolognese sauce is thought to be from the 1891 cooking manual ‘La scienza in cucina e l’arte di mangiar bene’, or ‘Science in the Kitchen and the Art of Eating Well’ by businessman and author, Pellegrino Artusi, who is believed to have spent a large amount of time in Bologna in the 19th century. Artusi composed a recipe for maccheroni (historical generic term for pasta) alla bolognese, a sauce very similar to the traditional ragù alla bolognese of today. Artusi’s recipe called for veal instead of beef mince and pancetta, butter, onion, carrot, and celery. The interesting difference between his sauce and the one that we know and love, is the lack of tomatoes, not to be found anywhere in Artusi’s recipe, or often in modern recipes. And while you might imagine that the Italians are fond of their herbs, ragù simply requires a small amount of salt and pepper with nothing more to season it, as it is believed that the flavours of its components are more than enough to satisfy the consumer. It also remains that many Italians continue to add whole milk or cream at the end of the recipe, very different from the squirt of tomato ketchup, or healthy glug of Worcestershire sauce that you may see used in Spaghetti Bolognese in Britain.

While I doubt that I will entirely change my recipe of Spaghetti Bolognese, I have since decided that the Italians do it best. I implore you to visit the beautiful city of Bologna to try their staple dish - the wonderful tagliatelle al ragù alla Bolognese.

by Megan Goddard

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Food & Drink

A taste of Stockholm Many fans of IKEA will be familiar with one Swedish dish: meatballs (köttbullar in Swedish).

I knew that when I visited my friend in Stockholm this winter, they were something I had to try.

However, during the four days I spent there, I realised that Swedish cuisine is so much more than meatballs, and is in fact very diverse from southern European countries owing to its cold climate.

@emilymercer

Scandinavian temperatures are notoriously low in January, with temperatures reaching -20°C. On the first morning, my friend made us some Swedish waffles (våfflor), which, unlike Belgian waffles, are thinner and crispier, similar to pancakes. The waffles were beautifully shaped into tiny hearts and topped with whipped cream and a homemade strawberry jam. It was a perfect and filling breakfast to set us up for a long day of sight-seeing ahead.

As we were walking around Stockholm’s city centre in search of lunch, we came across a restaurant that served an authentic Swedish dish: falukorv, a type of Swedish sausage usually served with potatoes, fried eggs, and beetroot.

After tucking into this hearty meal, I felt like I had been wrapped in a warm and cosy blanket. Like so many of Sweden’s dishes during the wintertime, this was a simple but substantial meal.

As night-time approached, we decided to head to a bar, hoping that some alcohol would warm up our spirits. However, this was not just any bar, this was an “Ice Bar” – the world’s first bar made of ice. Everything, including the seats and the cocktail glasses, were carved out of ice. With a temperature of -7°C, we were given ponchos Ice Bar Stockholm" by dronepicr is licensed under CC BY 2.0. fitted with a furry hood and gloves.

I would recommend the Ice Bar to anyone looking for an adventurous and unique Scandinavian experience, but definitely bring lots of layers!

by Emily Mercer

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travel @caitlingaul

48 Hours in Munich: A Travel Guide

During my semester abroad in Germany, I was lucky enough to visit Munich three times. I have compiled some of my favourite spots so if you get the chance to visit this gem of a city, your trip can be jam-packed full of some of the best things it has to offer!

Getting around…

Munich has a very efficient U-Bahn (metro) system: an 8€ day ticket allows you access to almost all UBahn and tram lines. The city bikes are a great alternative for only 8 cents a minute (capped at 15€ per day).

Accommodation – Euro Youth Hostel Located less than a five-minute walk from the main train station and only a 15-minute walk to the Rathaus (town-hall), this charming hostel is the perfect base for a few days. With friendly staff, clean facilities, plenty of entertainment and a buzzing atmosphere, I can highly recommend staying here.

40-50€ pp/pn for a bed in a dorm Sights The Englisher Garten is a sprawling park covering over 900 acres (more than Central Park!). I’d recommend heading for Monopteros, a Greek-style pavilion atop a small hill which boasts an impressive view of the park and some of Munich’s skyline, and then wandering along the river to the Eisbachwelle.

Here you can see one of the city’s quirkiest sights: a gushing, continuous wave from which surfers jump on and off, whatever the weather.

Head back into the centre and marvel at the impressive townhall and Peterskirche in Marienplatz.

You can ascend the 300 steps of the Peterskirche with a 3€ student ticket, and be wowed by a stunning, 360-degree view of the city. Just a five-minute walk away you’ll find more of Munich’s most iconic buildings in Odeonsplatz, including the impressive Theatiner Kirche and the Munich Residenz. Housing @caitlingaul 130 luxurious rooms of baroque and rococo-style, the Munich Residenz is a former palace of various

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@caitlingaul

royal families in Germany and takes about two hours to wander round. Whether you are a sports fan or not, the Allianz Arena is also worth a visit. Take the UBahn to Fröttmaning and, with a 17€ student ticket, you can enjoy entry to the Bayern München FC Museum followed by a guided tour of this impressive 50,000 seater stadium, its press conference room, the players’ tunnel, and more.

Food & Drink Munich is famous for its beer halls, and the Hofbräuhaus is world-renowned. With over 600 seats, one-litre steins of beer, and a live-band playing Oompah music, this cultural dining experience is certainly one of a kind. Authentic menu items include crispy pork belly, Schnitzel, Kartoffelknödel (a potato dumpling) and, for dessert, Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy,

@caitlingaul

'scrambled’ pancake soaked in rum, served with jam, and topped with lots of icing sugar. It must be noted, though, that traditional Bavarian food can be quite heavy, and a lot of beer halls do not tend to offer many vegetarian or vegan options.

For a lighter bite at brunch or lunchtime, Wagner’s Juicery and Health Food is a popular spot for smoothie bowls, avocado on toast and good coffee, located along the river Isar.

Nightlife As well as Munich’s numerous beer halls, the most popular area for nightlife is Münchener Freiheit. With a quirky interior, a lively atmosphere and upbeat music, Goldkätzchen is a great club spot, amongst other bustling bars and pubs in the surrounding area.

A city as cultural and historic as Munich has so much more to offer than what I have mentioned, but I hope this mini travel guide has given you some inspiration for your next Bavarian break!

by Caitlin Gaul

Answer these five questions, add up the points on the side and find out which city break you should take this Spring!

quiz!

Answer the next five questions, add up the points on the side and find out where you should go this spring!

Q. What type of staycation is your favourite?

Q. What is your favourite thing about A. Going to the seaside, eating fish and chips, and Easter? strolling along the pier - 4 A. Easter bonnets - 3 B. A caravan holiday in the Cotswolds - 2 B. Better weather - 4 C. Living in a luxury hotel in a big city - 3 C. Spending time with family and friends - 2 D. I don’t like staycations, get me abroad! - 1 D. Easter Eggs! - 1 Q. What is your favourite Springtime activity?

A. Having picnics with your friends - 2 B. Visiting botanical gardens - 1 C. Going to rooftop bars - 3 D. Hiking in the Lake or Peak District - 4

Q. What is your favourite type of Easter egg?

A. Cadbury - 1 B. Lindt - 3 C. Galaxy - 4 D. Thorntons - 2 Q. What is your favourite place in Birmingham?

A. Digbeth - 4 B. Broad Street - 3 C. The Bullring – 2 D. Brindley Place - 1

5 - 9 points You got Rome! – You not only have a love for history and ancient architecture but more importantly you love good food! Sip an Aperol in the late afternoon near the Pantheon, have a gelato by the Trevi Fountain, eat traditional Roman carbonara, and stroll around the Spanish steps (which are covered in azaleas in Spring. If you go at Easter time, you may even catch a glimpse of the Pope as he walks the Via Crucis!

10 - 12 points You got Valencia! – You are the type of person who loves sun, sand, sea, and fun!

Spring is the best time to visit Valencia: towards the end of Spring the beach is the best place to enjoy the gentle heat from the sun; in March there is Las Fallas festival which lights up the streets (quite literally) of Valencia; or, if you fancy something more educational, make sure you visit the City of Arts and Sciences. And don’t forget to try Valencia’s paella!

13 - 15 points You got Lisbon! – You are an explorer with a strong love of beauty and grandeur! The best time to visit Lisbon is the Spring as it is warm and sunny, and the tourists are minimal. Perhaps less visited than Rome, Lisbon still boasts some amazing architecture. Just outside of the centre, you can visit the majestic castles and gardens of Sintra. If that does not appeal to you, go to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte to capture the city’s best view, or visit Belém to try its famous Pastéis de nata (custard tart)!

16 - 20 points You got Vienna! – You are a creative soul and a lover of art and music! When in Vienna, make sure to visit all its amazing museums, art galleries, and palaces such as the Hofburg or the Belvedere. Visit St Stephen’s Cathedral or watch an opera at the Vienna State Opera. To relax and unwind have a coffee and a Sachertorte (a traditional Viennese chocolate cake) in one of Vienna’s many bakeries or try one of Vienna’s local wines.

by isabella Iacono

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